Dr Lara Howard
Qualifications
MBBS
Professional Summary
Dr. Lara Howard is a highly qualified psychiatrist with extensive experience in both clinical practice and research. After completing her MBBS immediately after high school, she has engaged in numerous practical placements and research projects. Her work includes a significant randomized controlled trial (RCT) published in the Journal of ECT and presented at the 2018 International WPA Conference. As a consultant in the public sector, Dr. Howard leads initiatives focused on service improvement in areas such as complex trauma and perinatal-infant mental health.
Clinical Experience
Dr. Howard’s career is marked by her work in the public sector, where she has undertaken unique initiatives, including the establishment of a complex trauma clinic within Penrith CYMHS and the rollout of the Safe Start Clinic program across the Western Sydney LHD. Her contributions extend to the development of district guidelines for the safe prescribing and management of psychotropics, as well as her role in the operation of the Mother and Baby Unit in Western Sydney.
Specialties
Child Psychiatry
Perinatal and Infant Psychiatry
Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Complex Childhood Trauma
Transgenerational Familial Trauma
Approach to Care
Dr. Howard is known for her high standard of professional and ethical commitment. She adopts a patient-centered approach, tailoring her methods to meet the specific needs of her patients, whether they are infants, children, or adults. Her ability to address a wide range of psychiatric issues with compassion and expertise makes her a trusted provider in her field.
Languages
English
Special Interests
Dr. Howard has a special interest in addressing complex childhood and transgenerational familial trauma, as well as perinatal-infant mental health. Her work in establishing specialised clinics and contributing to the operation of a new Mother and Baby Unit in Western Sydney highlights her dedication to these areas.
Telehealth Services
As part of her commitment to accessible mental healthcare, Dr. Howard offers telepsychiatric services through JAAS Psych. These services allow her to reach a broader range of patients, ensuring they receive the same level of comprehensive care as in-person consultations.
For referrals made to Dr Howard for First Episode of Psychosis (FEP) Assessments and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and ADHD Assessments, please refer to the referral requirements.
Australia-Based
Our psychiatrists are located in Australia and governed by Australian law.
Online Appointments
Get access to telepsychiatry services from any eligible area.
Comprehensive Services
Our psychiatrists specialise in various fields and various age groups.
We’re Not An Emergency Service
Telehealth services, including those provided by JAAS Psych, are not for emergencies. In case of immediate risk, dial 000 or visit your local hospital’s emergency department.
If you are seeking additional supports, please see below.
Lifeline
A national charity providing all Australians experiencing emotional distress with access to 24 hour crisis support and suicide prevention services.
Suicide Call Back Service
Suicide Call Back Service offers free professional 24/7 telephone counselling support to people at risk of suicide, concerned about someone at risk, bereaved by suicide and people experiencing emotional or mental health issues.
Beyond Blue
Whether you're seeking mental health information or 24/7 qualified support for you or someone else, Beyond Blue here for you.
headspace
headspace is Australia’s National Youth Mental Health Foundation, providing early intervention mental health services to 12-25 year olds.