What's it all about?

Practical support for the real world

A clinical diagnosis is an important first step, but the journey doesn't end there. In the Macedon Ranges, many individuals find that while they have the clinical answers they need, they lack the practical, day-to-day support to implement them. Applied Cognitive Coaching was established to provide dedicated, complementary support to the clinical mental health system. I work alongside your existing healthcare team to encourage functional, real-world habits.

Positive strategies rooted in science

I specialise in the "how" of progress. I translate cognitive principles into personalised systems that respect how your brain actually works. While psychologists and psychiatrists provide the diagnosis and clinical treatment, I deliver the targeted coaching and capacity-building frameworks needed to navigate life outside the clinic walls.

Collaborative approach

Complementary: I facilitate the practical implementation that often falls outside the scope of traditional clinical sessions.

Goal-oriented: I take recommendations from your clinical team and collaborate with you to build a step-by-step roadmap to achieve them.

Neuro-affirming: I work with your unique cognitive profile to build systems that reduce daily friction and increase independence.

Local & integrated: I am committed to the Macedon Ranges community and value working collaboratively with local GPs, specialists, and NDIS coordinators.

Support available for self-managed and plan-managed NDIS participants, as well as private fee-paying clients.

Meet Silas

As an applied cognitive coach, I use principles from psychological sciences to understand why challenges show up in everyday life, then translate that understanding into practical, sustainable strategies. I focus on the intersection of brain function and daily habit, collaborating with you to turn clinical insights into structured, workable routines.

Academic excellence & specialised credentials

Bachelor of Psychological Sciences

This degree covers a science-based foundation in human behaviour, neurobiology, and cognitive function.

Member of the Golden Key International Honour Society

A distinction reserved exclusively for the top performing 15% of university students across more than 400 universities around the world.

Certified crisis supporter with Uniting VICTAS

Highly experienced in advanced communication, active listening, unconditional positive regard, and holding safe spaces for individuals with complex mental health needs.

Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) certified

Equipped to provide high-level safety frameworks and risk-mitigation strategies. I can provide a tremendous number of resources and referrals to help you destigmatise and explore suicidal ideations and other mental health crises.

Lived experience

Bringing authentic empathy and practical understanding to neurodivergent clients, specifically those with ADHD.

I look forward to meeting you!

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Silas Arrowsmith

Applied Cognitive Coach

Frequently Asked Questions

No. I hold a Bachelor of Psychological Sciences. A registered psychologist requires postgraduate study and registration with AHPRA. My work is a practical, goal-oriented "step-down" service designed to be a complementary support. While a psychologist focuses on therapeutic treatment, I focus on the practical implementation of your psychologist's recommended treatment, helping you scaffold the systems and habits required for daily life.

I cannot legally or ethically provide clinical diagnoses or treatments.

I provide capacity building supports rooted in psychological science and enhanced by lived experience. I specialise in helping individuals with ADHD and psychosocial disabilities bridge the gap between their goals and their daily habits. My focus is on executive functioning and psychosocial recovery, using non-restrictive strategies to foster independence and community participation.

Unfortunately, bulk billing is not available as Applied Cognitive Coaching is a non-clinical support service. Medicare rebates specifically apply to clinical treatments provided by registered psychologists or medical doctors.

However, my services are specifically designed to be accessible through the NDIS for self-managed and plan-managed participants. I also offer competitive pricing for those not accessing NDIS funding.

No. Because I provide non-clinical coaching and behavioural strategy, you do not need a mental health care plan or a referral from a doctor. You can book an initial consultation directly through this website.

My services are generally billed under capacity building categories. This includes development of daily living and life skills as well as psychosocial recovery coaching. I can work with both plan-managed and self-managed participants.

I offer face-to-face and online meetings. Whatever your preferred medium, I can work with.

Coaching is ideal for individuals who already have a diagnosis or a clear understanding of their challenges but are struggling with the day-to-day execution. If you are looking for practical tools to manage executive functioning, social cognition, or behavioural goals, this service is a great fit.

Pricing and Funding FAQ

How much does a session cost? My fees are aligned with the current NDIS Pricing Arrangements:

  • Psychosocial Recovery Coaching: $105.43 per hour.

  • Individual Skills Development: $80.06 per hour.

  • Private Coaching: $120.00 per hour for individuals not accessing NDIS funding.

Do you charge for travel? For face-to-face sessions in the Macedon Ranges, travel is billed in line with NDIS guidelines. I charge for actual travel time up to a maximum of 30 minutes. I do not charge a per-kilometre rate for travel to your location, only the time taken to reach you. No travel fees apply to Telehealth sessions.

Are there any hidden costs? No. All fees are discussed upfront and outlined in your Service Agreement. If we agree on non-face-to-face tasks, such as creating data progress charts or collaborating with your clinical team, these are billed at the standard hourly rate and agreed upon in advance.

Why is there a difference between NDIS and Private rates? NDIS rates are capped by the government to ensure plan sustainability. My private rate reflects the specialised nature of behavioural strategy consulting and the inclusion of advanced tools like objective progress tracking and data analysis.

What happens if I need to cancel? I require 48 hours' notice for cancellations. This allows me to offer the time slot to another client. Cancellations made with less than 48 hours' notice may incur a cancellation fee as per NDIS policy.

Can I use my NDIS funding if you are an unregistered provider? Yes. I can support participants who are self-managed or plan-managed. If your funding is NDIA-Managed (Agency Managed), you are currently restricted to using registered providers. Most participants in our region have the flexibility of plan management, which allows them to work with independent consultants like myself.

While both services aim to increase your independence, they focus on different aspects of your journey. I am qualified to provide both, depending on what is funded in your NDIS plan.

Psychosocial recovery coaching

The focus: Resilience and recovery.

This is about navigating the complexities of life with a mental health condition. I work on maintaining motivation, collaborating with your broader healthcare team, and building a recovery plan that helps you stay in control during difficult periods.

When to use it: If you have a primary psychosocial disability and need high-level support to coordinate your recovery and maintain hope.

NDIS Rate: $105.43 per hour.

Individual skills development (functional cognitive training)

The focus: Precision skill acquisition & executive scaffolding.

This is the high-level application of cognitive principles to solve real-world functional barriers. We don't just "build a schedule" together; we design environmental scaffolding that compensates for executive dysfunction. I use Applied Behavioural Analysis (ABA) principles and habit-chaining to hardwire routines into your daily life.

When to use it: When the goal is to increase your functional capacity. This is for participants who need to bridge the gap between understanding a strategy and executing it consistently.

NDIS rate: $80.06 per hour.

Can I access both? Yes, if both are funded in your plan. Many participants use recovery coaching for their long-term stability and skills development for the specific applied cognitive tools I provide to manage their ADHD or psychosocial barriers.

Questions?

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Phone

+61 481 309 338

Email

mail@appliedcognitivecoaching.com.au

Operating Hours

Mon - Fri: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM.
Sat: 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM.
Sun: Closed.