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Clinical Leadership Team

Our psychologists and partners have decades of experience working with adults and children with autism across multiple healthcare settings.

Portrait of Dr. Sam Gower

Dr. Sam Gower

Head of Psychology & Clinical Director

Dr. Sam Gower is a Clinical Psychologist registered both in Ireland and the UK. He was a Clinical Director with the NHS commissioning out of hospital healthcare services. He also works with Redress Scotland to support people who were abused while in care as children. He was previously the Clinical Director of Pieta House and has been a Principal Clinical Psychologist in a number of charity and private organisations.

Clinical Team

Our dedicated clinicians are experts in their fields, committed to providing the highest quality of care.

Portrait of Luis Pinheiro

Luis Pinheiro

Chartered Clinical Psychologist (PSI, M13992C)

Luis Pinheiro is a Chartered Clinical Psychologist, specialising in autism diagnostic assessments and evidence-based interventions for children, adolescents, adults, and families. He holds a Master's degree in Applied Psychology from the University of Minho and has extensive training in gold-standard assessment tools, including the ADI-R, ADOS-2, and Griffiths Scales. Luis is a Chartered Member of the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI, M13992C) and is HSE validated as a Clinical Psychologist. He will begin a Professional Master's in Systemic Psychotherapy (Individuals, Couples, and Families) at University College Dublin (UCD) in September 2025.

Portrait of Andreana Pulcrano

Andreana Pulcrano

Chartered Clinical Psychologist (PSI, M8919C)

Chartered Clinical Psychologist & Registered Family Therapist
With over a decade of clinical experience, Andreana brings to Autism Care a unique blend of psychological expertise and genuine human warmth. Holding a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology, she works with individuals, children, and families, helping them transform challenges into opportunities for personal growth. Deeply committed to the diagnosis and support of autistic individuals, Andreana is known for her tailour-made approach—grounded in evidence-based practice and a deep respect for neurodiversity. She believes that every person deserves support and autonomy, at their own pace and in their own way. Andreana is also active in sharing knowledge within the professional community. She regularly presents at webinars and conferences, including those hosted by Bodywhys and NEDRC, focusing on the intersection between eating disorders and neurodivergence. In March 2025, she delivered her third annual webinar on this important topic. In addition to clinical work, Andreana offers: Individual, couple, and family therapy with an empathetic, collaborative style. Parent training and family support, providing practical tools for everyday life. Targeted interventions for anxiety, depression, sleep difficulties, and learning challenges. Her professional style is warm, empathetic, and—at times—lightly humorous. As she likes to say, "More systemic-relational approach, less dusty manual." And it works.

Portrait of Ciarán Gaynor

Ciarán Gaynor

Occupational Therapist (CORU no. OT023950)

Ciarán is a CORU-registered Occupational Therapist with a Master's in Occupational Therapy from the University of Limerick. As an autistic therapist, he is passionate about supporting autistic and otherwise neurodivergent children and adults to live in a way that's confident, authentic, and sustainable. Ciarán is a neurodiversity-affirming practitioner and his approach is shaped by both professional training and lived experience. Outside of work, he's a longtime fan of pop music and enjoys talking about it almost as much as listening to it.

Portrait of Lisa Keane

Lisa Keane, MSc

Assistant Psychologist (PSI Graduate Member No. M14122)

Lisa Keane is an assistant psychologist with a BA in Psychology and Master of Science in Psychological Science, specialising in Clinical Psychology, from the University of Limerick. She is passionate about working with neurodivergent individuals and is committed to providing respectful, person-centred care. Lisa has experience in autism assessment and support. She strives to ensure each assessment is thorough, sensitive, and aligned with best-practice guidelines set by the HSE and NICE. Her goal is to help individuals gain clarity, validation, and a deeper understanding of themselves through the diagnostic process. Beyond assessment, Lisa offers tailored psychological support to help clients navigate life's challenges in ways that work for them. She draws on evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), always adapting her approach to suit each client's unique strengths and needs. As a member of the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI), Lisa upholds the highest standards of ethical and professional care. She is known for creating a warm, collaborative space where clients feel seen, heard, and empowered. Outside of her clinical work, Lisa enjoys reading, practicing yoga, going to the gym, and exploring new places.

Portrait of Aishling Guerin

Aishling Guerin

Assistant Psychologist (PSI Graduate Member No. M10065)

Aishling Guerin is an assistant psychologist with a strong commitment to supporting individuals through compassionate, evidence-based care. She is currently pursuing an MSc in Forensic Psychology and Mental Health at Coventry University, building on her academic background in applied psychology and mental health. Aishling brings valuable experience from both clinical and residential care settings, where she has worked with children, adolescents, and adults presenting with a wide range of complex needs. Her roles have included supporting neurodevelopmental and autism assessments, facilitating therapeutic group interventions, and delivering one-to-one therapeutic support. Driven by a passion for accessible, person-centred care, Aishling is dedicated to making psychological services more approachable and effective, particularly for individuals and families navigating challenging or overwhelming circumstances. She combines a warm, empathetic approach with a commitment to professional excellence and continuous development. Outside of her professional work, Aishling enjoys expanding her knowledge through ongoing learning, as well as finding balance through time with family, friends, and travel".

Portrait of Rachel Hosie

Rachel Hosie

Speech & Language Therapist (CORU no. SL017215)

Rachel is a CORU-registered Senior Speech and Language Therapist with a Bachelor's degree in Clinical Speech and Language Studies from Trinity College Dublin. She brings 15 years of extensive experience working with neurodivergent children and adolescents within the disability sector. Recently, Rachel completed a Diploma in Neurodiversity at University College Dublin, enhancing her commitment to respectful, strengths-based practice. She is a passionate advocate for inclusive and empowering support for autistic individuals and their families throughout their journeys. Rachel thrives in multidisciplinary team environments, collaborating with shared goals to provide the highest quality care to the children and families she supports.

Portrait of Caolán McCarthy

Caolán McCarthy

Senior Speech & Language Therapist (CORU no. SL044777)

Caolán McCarthy is an autistic Speech and Language Therapist, graduating from University College Cork in 2020. In the years since then, he has immersed himself professionally in the field of autism and complex disability, both in the public and private sector. Caolán acts as a part-time trainer and lecturer and is a speaker at both a national and international level, presenting at a number of different events including the Irish Association for Speech and Language Therapists Autism Special Interest Group, the Supporting Autistic Autonomy Conference and, most recently, the Autism Europe Congress in 2025. He is one of the co-authors of Making Space for Autism: Strategies for Assessing and Modifying Environments to Meet the Needs of Autistic People, focusing on creating accessibility through the lens of a number of environmental facets. Caolán has also acted as a neurodiversity and communication consultant for organisations such as Temple Street Children's Hospital and has made significant contributions to the National Council for Special Education in coordination with University College Dublin. He is a chartered member of both the Irish Association for Speech and Language Therapists and CORU, the clinical governing body for therapists in Ireland. Caolán strives to use the unique dual perspective afforded to him as both a clinical professional and autistic individual, who has been on 'both sides' of the therapeutic relationship, to provide holistic and neuro-affirmative support to any client he works with.

Portrait of Rebecca Troy O'Brien

Rebecca Troy O'Brien

Senior Speech and Language Therapist (CORU no. SL066524)

Rebecca is a CORU-registered Senior Speech and Language Therapist with a master's degree in Language Pathology from Newcastle University, UK. Rebecca has over 10 years experience, working with children and young people with a wide range of speech, language, and communication needs. Rebecca is dedicated to working collaboratively withneurodivergent children, their families and other professionals to ensure that assessment and intervention is meaningful, respectful and child centred. Rebecca takes a strengths-based, neurodiversity-affirming approach to her work, recognising and valuing each child's unique communication profile.

Portrait of Dr Seamus Ryan

Dr Seamus Ryan

Chartered Clinical Psychologist (PSI, M12410C)

As a Chartered Clinical Psychologist (Ps.S.I.), Dr. Ryan brings extensive experience from public and private healthcare sectors in Ireland and the UK. He holds a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (NUI Galway) and an MSc in Healthcare Leadership (UCC) among his qualifications. Additionally, Dr. Ryan has published research in international journals.

Portrait of  Michael Roache

Michael Roache

Clinical Psychologist (HCPC, PYL046545)

Michael Roache is a Clinical Psychologist with degrees from Ulster University and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Queen's University Belfast. He has extensive experience in mental health, specialising in neuropsychological assessment and therapeutic support. Michael helps children, young people, and families understand their strengths and needs, using an evidence based, collaborative, and respectful approach.

Portrait of  Dr. Janice Smith

Dr. Janice Smith

Chartered Clinical Psychologist (PSI. M11882C)

Dr. Janice Smith, originally from Canada with Irish and American heritage, holds Master and Doctorate degrees in Clinical Psychology and is a chartered psychologist with Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI) and British Psychological Society (BPS). She provides over 20 years of experience across various therapeutic settings and clinical populations. Dr. Smith specialises in assessment protocols and therapies such as EMDR, CBT, solution-focused therapy, family therapy, person-centered therapy, and sand tray therapy for PTSD. Her interests include neurodevelopmental trauma and neurodiversity, and she is committed to respecting clients' cultures, lifestyles, and beliefs.

Portrait of  Dr. Yvonne Phelan

Yvonne Phelan

Occupational Therapist (CORU no. OT045700)

Yvonne is a CORU-registered Occupational Therapist who qualified with a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of Limerick. She works primarily with children and their families across a range of needs. Yvonne is a neurodiversity-affirming, strengths-based, and child-led practitioner. Her work is grounded in trauma-informed care and play-based approaches, with a strong focus on creating safe, supportive environments where children can thrive as their authentic selves. She values collaboration with families and aims to ensure each child feels understood, respected, and empowered throughout the therapeutic process.

Portrait of  Dr. Dr. Jade Walsh

Dr. Jade Walsh

Chartered Clinical Psychologist (PSI. M11882C)

Jade is a Clinical Psychologist experienced in assessment with children, adolescents, and adults. Therapeutic assessment is a central part of Jade’s clinical work; she prioritises a collaborative, strengths-based approach that supports meaningful understanding of neurodivergence. She places strong emphasis on involving clients and families throughout the assessment process to ensure it feels respectful, validating, and supportive. Jade completed her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at University College Dublin. She has supported adults, children, and families across a range of HSE services, including Adult Mental Health, CAMHS, Primary Care, and Disability Services, as well as working with students in a university setting. Jade also brings experience from the NHS and completed specialist training within an Adult Eating Disorder multidisciplinary team. Jade has a strong interest in trauma-informed practice and is passionate about supporting neurodivergent individuals to feel understood, empowered, and safe. Upon graduating, she received a Clinical Excellence Award from the UCD School of Psychology.

Operations Team

Portrait of John Smyth

John Smyth

General Manager

Portrait of Ciara Kelly

Ciara Kelly

Operations Lead

General FAQs

At AutismCare, we understand how important it is for families to access timely, respectful support.

We aim to complete the initial pre-assessment consultation within one week of your first contact. From there, our full three-step process, comprising consultation, assessment, and feedback, is typically completed within 4 to 6 weeks, depending on individual needs and availability.

We are committed to offering timely access without compromising depth, care, or connection. Our process is guided by your child’s pace and comfort, and we take the time needed to understand individual unique profile in a thoughtful and affirming way.

At AutismCare, we’ve designed our service to remove unnecessary delays while maintaining a comprehensive, respectful, and identity-affirming process. Families and individuals are often faced with long waiting lists and complex referral pathways within traditional systems, barriers that can prolong stress and delay access to meaningful support.

Our model offers direct access to experienced psychologists and a carefully structured, three-step assessment process. We aim to conduct the initial pre-assessment consultation within one week of first contact. From there, the full process, including consultation, assessment sessions, and feedback, is typically completed within 4 to 6 weeks of the initial consultation, depending on individual needs and scheduling.

This approach allows us to provide timely, high-quality assessments while still ensuring the depth, care, and collaboration that are central to our neuroaffirmative ethos. We work closely with each individual and family to ensure the process is not rushed, but responsive to the person’s pace and comfort.

Yes. All the psychologists our platform connects you with are professionally qualified and registered with the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI).

As a result, your diagnosis is recognised within the Irish health and social care systems, providing access to relevant support services.

Yes. All of the psychologists our platform connects you with are professionally qualified and registered with the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI).

Yes. An online Autism assessment is fully recognised and holds the same validity as an in-person assessment.

At AutismCare, our online assessments are carried out in line with current best practice guidelines. This format offers increased accessibility and flexibility, particularly for individuals who may experience barriers to in-person appointments or prefer to engage from the comfort of their own environment.

Whether the assessment is conducted online or in person, the outcome is equally valid and can be used to access services through the HSE, Department of Education, and other public or private support systems.

We ensure that the online experience remains thorough, respectful, and neuroaffirmative, and is adapted to meet each individual’s communication and access needs.

No referral is required to begin the process at AutismCare.

We begin with a pre-assessment consultation, where you’ll meet directly with one of our qualified psychologists. This session provides an opportunity to explore your concerns, ask questions, and discuss your or your child’s experiences in a supportive, neuroaffirmative space.

Following this consultation, the psychologist will offer a formal recommendation on whether proceeding to a full Autism assessment is appropriate at this time. This approach ensures that every step of the process is individualised, collaborative, and grounded in respect for neurodivergent identities.

You can contact us directly to begin—we’re here to support you from the very first step.

At AutismCare, we offer a comprehensive, neuroaffirmative assessment process that includes consultation, assessment sessions, and a detailed feedback report with personalised recommendations.

  • The full assessment process for adults is €1,787
  • The full assessment process for children is €2,487

We understand that funding an assessment can be a significant decision for many families and individuals. To support accessibility, payment plans are available for both adult and child assessments.

If you have any questions about pricing or would like to discuss payment options, our team is happy to guide you through the available supports.

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