Dr John Down

Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist

Dr John Down is an experienced child and adolescent psychiatrist, with a particular interest in neuropsychiatry. Having completed advanced training in child and adolescent psychiatry, he further enriched his expertise with a fellowship year in paediatric neurology at the Queensland Children’s Hospital.

John has a particular interest in working with child and adolescent obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and anxiety, Tourette Syndrome and tic disorders, and neuroinflammatory causes of psychiatric symptoms (PANS/PANDAS). He also enjoys working with a range of other neurodevelopmental disorders, including ADHD and Autism.

John is a strong advocate for a multidisciplinary approach to healthcare, and he collaborates extensively with other healthcare providers to enhance the quality of care provided to his young patients.

Beyond his clinical practice specialities, John is deeply committed to the advancement of knowledge via research and training, and he splits his time between private practice and The Queensland Children’s Hospital. He is currently leading a research study investigating the efficacy of cannabidiol (CBD) in young people with Tourette Syndrome. He is also involved in teaching and training junior doctors.

John is a compassionate and empathic specialist, and he strives to create a supportive and understanding environment for both young people and their families.

Currently only taking new referrals for OCD, Tourette Syndrome and general psychiatry in under 12 year old children.

Dr John Down Paediatric & Adolescent Psychiatrist at The Brainy Bunch

HOW TO

Start the process

To begin psychological therapy or an assessment

You do not need a referral to see a psychologist for therapy or assessment. However, Medicare rebates are available for those who have a Mental Health Care Plan. To obtain a Mental Health Care Plan, you will need to visit your GP or a Psychiatrist or a Paediatrician. Medicare rebates are not offered for assessments.

To book an appointment with a Paediatrician, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist or Paediatric Neurologist

For an appointment with one of our medical specialists, please see your General Practitioner (GP) or current medical specialist and discuss a referral to our service. A referral from a GP or medical specialist is required, and once this has been received, our team will be in contact with you.

To begin speech therapy or a language assessment

You do not need a referral to see a speech pathologist for an assessment or therapy. However, Medicare rebates may be available for those who have a Chronic Disease GP Management Plan or Team Care Arrangement. You will need to speak with your GP to determine if you are eligible for referral under these schemes. Medicare referrals are also available under a Complex Neurodevelopmental Disorder or other eligible disability (including Autism) scheme. Speak to your child’s GP, Paediatrician or Psychiatrist for a referral under this scheme.

HAVE A QUESTION?

Enquire Now

For enquiries or to book an appointment, please email admin@thebrainybunch.com.au or call (07) 3846 4554. Alternatively, you can complete the contact form below, and one of our reception team will be in touch to answer your query or book an appointment.