about me
Karise McNamee
social worker
I'm a Social Worker providing counselling and therapeutic capacity-building for women.
It matters to me that your therapeutic space feels safe, non-judgemental, supportive, and affirming, and that you leave each session feeling valued and heard.
I'm passionate about offering flexible, empathetic support that helps you show compassion to your own mind and body, and that empowers you to make changes aligned with what you actually want.
Together, we'll work on:
understanding yourself better
building on your strengths
using practical tools to manage your emotions, behaviours, and relationships
growing kinder beliefs about yourself
rebuilding your energy and motivation for life
This work is strengths and capacity-building focused, so a big part of us working well together is your openness to learning and trying new strategies and tools for the challenges you're facing. That said, I have plenty of experience with people who feel nervous about counselling, so please don't worry. We go at your pace, and I'll do everything I can to make this comfortable for you.
Being a neuro-affirming practitioner matters deeply to me. I love learning about how you experience the world, and I value self-identification just as much as professional diagnosis.
I'm neurodivergent myself, which some people find important in a therapist. You can jump between topics or info-dump with me without any shame or embarrassment. I love hearing about people's passions and interests, and my fast brain can keep up. I might even turn one of your interests into a new counselling tool for us, if I'm on the ball.
my qualifications
I'm an AuDHD Social Worker with a Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) from Charles Sturt University, and I'm currently completing my PhD research focused on the workplace experiences of adult-diagnosed ADHD women. I bring an integrative blend of professional expertise, lived experience, and personal insight to my work.
I have over 12 years of experience in trauma-informed and neurodiversity-affirming mental health practice, alongside lived experience of AuDHD, reproductive trauma, endometriosis, perimenopause, and managing chronic health challenges. This means I understand, from the inside, how deeply these things can shape how you feel about yourself and the world.
I also work as a Charles Sturt University academic, because I'm passionate about staying at the forefront of research and best practice for neurodivergence in women, in an authentic and compassionate way. My drive to understand and support the distinct needs of ADHD and AuDHD women fuels my ongoing professional development and advocacy. It's definitely one of my SPINs.
I'm an Associate Member of the Australasian ADHD Professionals Association and a member of the Neuroaffirming Professionals Alliance Australia. I teach a range of mental health and social work subjects at Charles Sturt University, and I sit on the Australian Association of Social Workers Ethics Council. I also speak regularly at events and conferences as part of my advocacy for better assessment, diagnosis, and support for ADHD and AuDHD women.
VIC ADHD Conference 2026 - Presentation on Late Diagnosed ADHD Women
podcast interviews
Still want to know a bit more about me?
Here are some podcast episodes where I have been interviewed about my work and experience.
reviews
I would highly recommend Karise and her service. The support I have received has inspired and motivated me to achieve goals in life that would never have been possible. Karise is a kind, empathetic and understanding person who provides empowerment to others.
-Glenn | Social Work Student
I highly recommend Karise who provides outstanding counselling, education and support. Karise is warm, empathetic and makes you feel comfortable straight away. She has a unique ability to draw out issues and provide strategies to help you feel more secure. Highly recommended.
-Sharon | Colleague
Karise draws on a range of diverse social work skills and knowledge bases on her quest to improve the lives and safety of people. Her research and policy expertise provides a solid foundation for her practical experience working with people and service providers. She brings such positive energy and commitment into all aspects of her work that I never hesitate to work with or recommend her to others whenever the chance arises.
Dr Belinda Cash | Charles Sturt University
***Wondering why there are no client reviews? In line with professional ethical principles, I don’t solicit client testimonials.