About Jamila Bailey
Paediatric Clinical Psychologist
Paediatric Clinical Psychologist
Jamila Bailey is a warm, compassionate Clinical Psychologist with extensive paediatric experience. Jamila specialises in assessment and therapy for children and families affected by a range of issues, including behavioural and emotional difficulties, ADHD, autism and anxiety.
Jamila has a background in behaviour therapy and early intervention for children. Her focus is on proactive, not reactive care and tailoring support to suit families and their needs. Prior to joining the team at Hunter Valley Paediatrics, Jamila worked at a private practice in Sydney specialising in the assessment and treatment of ADHD, and has held several positions in NSW Health since, including HNEkids ADHD, Rehab and Paediatric Brain Injury Teams.
Jamila draws on a cognitive-behaviour therapy framework and is trained in numerous evidence-based child and family interventions, including Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), the Integrated Family Intervention for Child Conduct Problems, and the Confident Carers Cooperative Kids Program, which focus on treating behaviour difficulties and attachment issues; and the Cool Kids and ProACTive programs for treating anxiety in children.
An important focus of Jamila’s is providing support for families that is evidence-based, but also individualised, innovative, child-focused, play-based, and collaborative. Jamila is an advocate for working with parents, children, and educators to ensure a holistic approach to intervention. Her ultimate interest is in providing support to children, and families that will promote their emotional and psychological wellbeing and help them feel heard and connected.
Outside of work, Jamila enjoys time with her young family and loves a good book and beach day.
Why did you want to become a kids' psychologist instead of a psychologist for grown-ups?
I always knew I wanted to work with kids and families, and I always have! It’s the best job in the world. I get to play, learn, and grow and help kids and parents do the same. Kids have the best ideas and imaginations, endless energy, honesty and resilience. I love getting a window into their worlds. My job means I get to be a safe, kind helper who helps kids and families be their best selves.
What is your favourite dinosaur?
Triceratops – they’re plant eating just like me, very gentle and caring but also strong and loyal, so will stand up and defend those who need it. Triceratops live in herds of friends and families and I love that they work together to keep each other safe from danger. That’s an important part of what I do with kids and families too!
What do you do when you’re not being a psychologist?
When I’m not helping other kids and families, I’m spending time with my family and friends. We love a family games night, beach day, or spontaneous adventure.
If you could pick any superpower what would it be?
Reading minds (aka telepathy)! Because it’s not always easy talking about hard stuff. But there’s something super special about someone trusting you enough to talk to you and share their thoughts too.