Experienced Team of Paediatricians and Allied Health Professionals Providing Holistic Care

Perth CDC provides paediatric developmental and behavioural services. We support each child with gentle guidance and personalised care.

AHM HBF Medibank Medicare CBHS GMHBA HCF
AHM HBF Medibank Medicare CBHS GMHBA HCF

Our Vision, Mission, and Commitment to Your Family

We are guided by a clear mission and vision that focuses on providing accessible, high-quality care, empowering families, and helping every child grow with confidence, compassion, and a sense of community connection.

Vision

To see every child in our community grow, thrive, and reach their full potential with the support of compassionate, collaborative care.

Mission

To provide accessible, holistic developmental and behavioural support through a team-based approach that values families, empowers children, and builds confidence for life.

Our Commitment

We work alongside families to create tailored pathways for assessment, support, and progress. Every visit is grounded in trust, understanding, and partnership—because meaningful outcomes begin with meaningful care.

Where Developmental Support Meets Genuine Care and Family Partnership

Paediatricians and allied health professionals collaborate at Perth CDC to support your child’s development, behaviour, and overall well-being. This team-based model integrates speech therapy, psychology, physiotherapy, and occupational therapy into a single, connected treatment plan.

Clinicians communicate closely and share regular updates to keep families informed. You will not need to repeat your story—our approach is consistent, thoughtful, and designed to support families every step of the way.

Paediatric Developmental and Behavioural Services Offered at Perth CDC

Perth CDC delivers quality treatment through a multidisciplinary team offering paediatrics, speech therapy, physiotherapy, psychology, and occupational therapy. Children and families benefit from having a coordinated team in one trusted location, working collaboratively to support consistent care and long-term progress.

Paediatrics

The paediatric team supports children’s physical, emotional, and developmental health from birth through adolescence. Families receive tailored advice appropriate to their child’s stage of development.

Speech Therapy

Speech therapy focuses on building communication, language, and social interaction skills. Sessions are engaging, child-friendly, and adapted to suit each child’s needs and learning style

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy helps children develop strength, coordination, and balance. Support is provided through play-based movement strategies that build confidence and physical independence.

Paediatric Psychology

Psychological support addresses emotional well-being, behavioural challenges, and social development. Care is personalised to meet each child’s needs in a respectful, nurturing, and family-centred environment.

Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy helps children build skills for daily tasks such as dressing, feeding, and managing sensory input. The therapy promotes independence through structured, age-appropriate, and play-based activities.

Why Families Choose Perth CDC

Families come to us looking for more than just appointments—they’re seeking clarity, care, and connection. Each visit is approached as a meaningful step in their child’s development.

A Safe Space Where Children Can Thrive and Grow

From the first hello to each return visit, our clinic is designed to be a nurturing environment where children can feel at ease. We understand how important it is for families to feel welcomed, heard, and respected. That’s why our spaces are calm, inclusive, and thoughtfully arranged—so children of all abilities feel secure while they learn, grow, and build confidence alongside a caring team.

Support That’s Personal, Ongoing, and Truly Collaborative

We take time to understand your child’s unique needs and what progress looks like for your family. Our team works closely with parents and carers to create realistic goals and step-by-step plans. By fostering genuine relationships, we empower families to feel involved at every stage of their child’s development—not just during appointments but throughout their everyday routines at home, school, and in the community.

A Team That Listens, Cares, and Works With Heart

Our team is made up of warm, approachable clinicians who prioritise connection before intervention. We don’t rush. We listen carefully, explain clearly, and check in often. Whether it’s your child’s first appointment or their tenth, we aim to build trust through consistency, patience, and kindness. For us, delivering care goes beyond qualifications. It means creating a meaningful experience where families feel supported and understood every step of the way.

Holistic Services That Grow With Your Child’s Needs

Every child’s journey is unique, and their needs can change over time. Perth CDC offers a wide range of allied health services under one roof, allowing families to access coordinated care without the stress of retelling their stories repeatedly. Whether your child requires speech support, emotional guidance, or movement development, our team communicates closely to provide personalised care that evolves as your child grows.

Get to Know the Dedicated Professionals Behind Your Child’s Care

Perth CDC is home to an experienced team of paediatricians and allied health professionals. Each clinician works closely with families to support children’s development, health, and well-being.

Dr. Amruta Pendse

CONSULTANT PAEDIATRICIAN | MBBS, MD, FRACP

Dr. Pendse is a senior paediatrician with over 12 years of experience in neonatology and childhood health. She addresses concerns related to feeding, growth, and development.

Dr. Indrajit Karande

DIRECTOR AND MEDICAL LEAD | MBBS, DCH, FRACP, GCAD

As co-founder and senior paediatrician, Dr. Karande manages care for children with autism, ADHD, and behavioural concerns. He is ADOS‑2 trained and experienced in developmental paediatrics.

Dr. Neha Chawla

CONSULTANT PAEDIATRICIAN | MBBS, FRACP

Dr. Chawla is a general paediatrician who manages acute and chronic childhood conditions. Her clinical interests include feeding issues, eczema, asthma, and developmental care.

Dr. Susan Feng

PAEDIATRICIAN | MBBS, MD, FRACP

Dr. Feng brings experience as a consultant paediatrician with a focus on developmental and general medical concerns. Her approach is calm, attentive, and family-focused.

Claudia Wagenaar

DIRECTOR AND CLINICAL LEAD | BSc (Hons) Speech and Language Pathology

Claudia is a speech pathologist who works with children with speech, language, and communication needs through engaging, individualised sessions that build skills and confidence.

Simone Brambilla

DIRECTOR AND CLINICAL LEAD | MClinPhysio (Curtin), BSc Physiotherapy

Simone, a paediatric physiotherapist, helps children build strength, balance, and coordination using fun, movement-based therapy to promote functional everyday development.

Jacqueline Phegan

SPEECH PATHOLOGIST | BHLTHPROM, GRADDIPPSYCH, BSPPATH

Jacqueline Phegan is a speech pathologist with experience in private and NDIS settings. She delivers family-centred, evidence-based therapy for speech, language, literacy, and AAC needs.

Dr. Maria Clara Rearte Ernst

CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST | BA SC (PSYCH), (HONS), MPSYCH (CLINICAL)

Dr. Maria Clara is a clinical psychologist who supports children’s growth by addressing developmental, learning, and behavioural needs through collaborative, culturally informed, and evidence-based care.

Explore Our Child-Friendly Clinic Spaces

Every room at Perth CDC is designed to feel calm and welcoming. These child-friendly spaces help children feel comfortable, safe, and confident during visits.

What Families Say About Their Perth CDC Experience

Parents often share that they feel supported, understood, and genuinely cared for. Their feedback reflects the strong, trusting relationships that have been built between families and our team.

Thank you Perth CDC for your kind and empathetic receptionist Hetal and wonderful, professional Dr Amruta Pendse for caring for my son. I am forever grateful for your guidance and support. I would highly recommend Perth CDC to any mother, parent, guardian or family.

Tara

Dr Karande made my child & myself feel very comfortable. We have had our initial session so far & he was thorough & did not rush us (even though we were late with traffic.. ) Also Hetal who runs the office was very kind & organised an appointment promptly.

Chris

Doctor Karande is an amazing Paediatrician I have never met anyone like him before. His caring and understanding, very thorough with his work. Will listen to your concerns and take every precautionary measure. I highly recommend Dr Karande to anyone who needs to see a paediatrician.

Talena

Dr Karande is a supportive and caring practitioner who has been a great support to our family from childhood and through teenage years. We couldn’t recommend Perth CDC more highly. Hetal has also been amazing in working through appointment requests and helping to make a sometimes stressful process, very easy.

Annette

This clinic have been amazing for my children’s assessments and appointments. Dr Karande really invests time to connect with the children and assess them genuinely. We have also seen Dr Pendse who has been very supportive and listens to the needs of my child, as well spending time to answer my questions and explain things clearly.

Danielle

Perth CDC has been beyond amazing with my children. The care and compassion Indi and Hetal have shown us as a family is to the highest standard. I can not recommend Perth CDC enough and words can never express how much they have helped us. My children’s growth under their care has exceeded my expectations.

Kylie

Highly, highly recommend Dr Kerande. What an exceptional paediatrician. We sought him out to assess my siblings to see if they have ADHD – he was not only thorough, but reassuring and well knowledged. He is also brilliant at building rapport with children. Cannot thank him enough and I don’t hesitate to recommend him to others. Thank you, Dr Kerande!

Dyoussef

Dr Karande was very efficient and really took the time to listen to our concerns and we finally got a diagnosis.

Tara

Great service, patience and understanding from Hetal to Dr I. Karande. I know my son is in safe hands. Keep it up!!!

Choicy

Dr Amruta Pendse has been empathic and thorough when helping my son and I with his ADHD diagnosis and treatment. Dr Amruta is very approachable and understanding and it’s great that I’m able to email with updates or concerns and receive a prompt response to my questions. Would highly recommend Dr Amruta Pendse and Perth CDC if your child is needing a paediatrician.

Kirsty

Dr Karande, Monika and Hetal are the most kind and caring group of people I’ve had the pleasure of working with for my daughter who has ASD and ADHD. The staff always make you feel welcome and ensure they provide the best care possible for your child. We have been coming to Perth CDC for 3 years and will continue to come here.

Jess

Thank you for the best experience! Could not fault paediatrician Indrajit S Karande. He was really friendly and made sure my husband and myself were able to spend moments after the birth with our son. He was thorough and made sure our baby was safe and healthy! It was such a nice experience. I highly recommend Perth CDC.

Sharna

What to Expect When You Visit Perth CDC

Each visit is carefully planned to help families feel informed, supported, and involved. Our team takes time to understand your child’s history, strengths, and challenges. Appointments may involve conversations, observations, or standardised assessments. These are delivered in a comfortable environment that prioritises your child’s comfort.

Helpful Resources on ADHD for Parents and Carers

Understanding ADHD can be overwhelming at first, but the right information makes a big difference. We have compiled trusted resources to help you learn about symptoms and everyday strategies. These guides also cover school support and ways to strengthen your child’s confidence, focus, and well-being.

ASD Resources to Help You and Your Child

Supporting a child with autism starts with understanding. We have gathered helpful, evidence-based resources that cover early signs, sensory needs, and communication strategies. These tools also address school support and ways to help your child feel confident, connected, and understood in daily life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Every child develops differently, and it is natural for parents to have questions. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions before and during a visit.

At what age can my child be seen at Perth CDC?

Perth CDC welcomes children from birth up to 18 years of age. Whether your child is a newborn, toddler, primary school student, or teenager, our team offers developmental, behavioural, and general paediatric care. Each consultation is tailored to support their needs at every stage of growth.

Yes, Perth CDC requires a valid referral from your child’s general practitioner (GP) before the appointment. This helps guide the care your child receives and allows for Medicare support.

Referrals can be emailed, faxed, or sent through Healthlink (ID: perthcdc). If no referral is provided, full consultation fees will apply.

To book an appointment, contact Perth CDC by phone or email. Once your referral is received, we will assist you in arranging a suitable time and send you the necessary intake forms. You are welcome to ask questions about appointment types, availability, or what to expect during your child’s visit.

Perth CDC provides assessment and support for a wide range of developmental and behavioural concerns, including the following:

  1. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD):
    Children may have difficulty with social communication, building relationships, managing repetitive behaviours, or restricting interests.
  2. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD):
    This can include challenges with focusing, sitting still, following instructions, or managing impulsive behaviour.
  3. Global developmental delay:
    Children may experience slower progress in several areas, including motor skills, speech, and problem-solving.
  4. Learning difficulties:
    This includes trouble with reading, writing, spelling, math, or keeping up with classroom expectations.
  5. Emotional regulation:
    Some children struggle to manage intense emotions, such as anger, frustration, or sadness, in everyday situations.
  6. Anxiety and mood concerns:
    F
    eelings of nervousness, fear, or low mood may affect your child’s ability to enjoy or participate in daily life.
  7. Sensory processing differences:
    Children may be highly sensitive or under-responsive to various sensory inputs, including sounds, textures, lights, movement, or other stimuli.
  8. Behavioural challenges:
    This
    includes issues such as defiance, aggression, meltdowns, or difficulty adjusting to routines and transitions.
  9. Social skills difficulties:
    Children may struggle to form friendships, interpret social cues, or engage in reciprocal interactions with others.

Each concern is assessed individually using tools like interviews, observation, and input from parents and teachers.

Appointment availability varies based on the clinician’s schedule and the type of assessment required. The clinic may be able to offer an earlier time if a cancellation occurs or if the doctor is available outside their regular clinic days. For urgent matters, families are encouraged to email or call to discuss available options.

These items help your clinician build a detailed understanding of your child’s needs and plan the right support:

  1. School reports:
    They show your child’s academic performance and any learning or behavioural concerns observed by teachers.
  2. Letters from teachers:
    These describe how your child interacts socially and manages classroom routines and expectations.
  3. Reports from other health professionals:
    These provide important background and help coordinate care across services without repeating previous assessments.
  4. Videos or photos:
    These capture behaviours or challenges that may not occur in the clinic, offering real-life context.
  5. Referral letter from a GP or doctor:
    This is required to access Medicare benefits and helps the clinician understand the reason for the referral.
  6. Completed pre-assessment forms:
    These give the team early insights into your child’s development and current concerns.

Providing this information helps make your child’s appointment more focused, effective, and personalised.

Your child’s first visit is designed to gather a full picture of their development, strengths, and areas of concern. Here’s what to expect:

  1. Discussion with parents or carers:
    The clinician will ask about your child’s development, health, family background, school progress, sleep patterns, and daily behaviour.
  2. Observation of your child’s behaviour:
    Your child may be gently observed during play or conversation to understand how they engage, respond, and interact.
  3. Developmental assessments:
    Tools such as Griffiths-3 or WRAT-5 may be used to explore cognitive, motor, speech, and learning areas.
  4. Physical check-up:
    If your child is comfortable, a brief medical examination may be conducted to
    help guide the overall clinical assessment.
  5. Questionnaires for parents and teachers:
    You may be given online forms to complete and share with your child’s teacher, offering additional information from home and school settings.

This appointment sets the foundation for planning the next steps for your child.

Your child’s appointment needs will depend on their circumstances. Some children may require only one or two visits for assessment or short-term advice.

Others may benefit from continued care, especially if developmental or behavioural concerns are identified. After the initial assessment, the paediatrician will recommend a follow-up plan that suits your child’s needs.

Yes. Medicare can contribute to the cost of paediatric appointments if you have a valid referral. Some allied health services may be claimable through your private health fund. Since health fund contributions differ, we recommend checking with your provider or speaking with our team for clarification.

Book a Visit to Support Your Child’s Growth

Book a visit at Perth CDC to access coordinated care in one location. Our clinicians provide each child with collaborative and well-planned support tailored to their individual needs.