Meet Narmi

Clinical Psychologist | Board‑Approved Supervisor | Educator & Academic

Narmatha (Narmi) Thillainathan is a Clinical Psychologist and the Founder of Breakthrough Psychology. She brings over 25 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, adults, and families across a range of clinical and community settings. 
 

Born in Sri Lanka and displaced due to ethnic conflict, Narmi’s early life was shaped by migration across several countries, including Zimbabwe, New Zealand, and Australia. These lived experiences have given her a deep and compassionate understanding of the pressures faced by individuals and families navigating cultural transitions, identity, and belonging. She is particularly attuned to the complexities that arise when cultural values, family expectations, and young people’s personal aspirations intersect. 
 

Narmi is a qualified Clinical Psychologist, having trained at the University of Sydney, with additional academic experience at the University of Auckland and other institutions. She currently contributes to the next generation of psychologists as an Adjunct at Macquarie University and Casual Academic at University of Western Sydney, where she teaches and supervises postgraduate Clinical Psychology students in areas such as neuropsychology and child and family practice. 
 

Her clinical expertise includes comprehensive diagnostic assessments for both children and adults, including ADHD, Autism, intellectual disability, and learning disorders. She is trained in a range of evidence-based therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, and Compassion-Focused Therapy. Narmi’s therapeutic style is integrative and flexible—she works collaboratively with each client to tailor interventions that best suit their individual needs and goals, ensuring the most effective outcomes. 

Narmi is passionate about early intervention and works extensively with children and adolescents experiencing anxiety, depression, school refusal, selective mutism, and neurodevelopmental differences. A central aspect of her work involves supporting parents through evidence-based strategies that strengthen family relationships and build resilience. 
 

In her work with adults, Narmi supports individuals navigating ADHD, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship difficulties and life transitions. She is deeply committed to helping clients move beyond symptom management towards leading meaningful and purpose-driven lives. 

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Narmi is also a mother of two and identifies as neurodiverse, which further informs her empathetic and practical approach to therapy. She understands the complexities of balancing family life, personal wellbeing, and the demands of modern living. 
 

Known for her warmth, authenticity, and non-judgemental style, Narmi strives to meet each client where they are, creating a safe and supportive space for growth and change. Beyond her clinical work, she is actively involved in community service and is committed to ongoing personal development. She values mindfulness and wellbeing practices such as yoga, pilates, and running, and enjoys cooking, creating flower garlands, and spending time with her family and dog. 
 

Prior to establishing her private practice, Narmi worked extensively in hospitals, schools, and government settings, supporting individuals to overcome adversity and lead more fulfilling lives. 

“May the Force Be With You”