Rachel Jellett

Rachel Jellett is a Lecturer in Psychological Sciences at the School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology. She is a clinical psychologist and board-approved supervisor with a strong commitment to integrating clinical practice with autism research and teaching. Her work emphasizes neurodiversity, the social model of disability, and affirming care for autistic individuals across the lifespan.

• Doctorate in Psychology (Clinical), Swinburne University of Technology
• Awarded Faculty Research Prize, 2016

Rachel’s research centers on autism, with key interests in identity-first language, diagnostic experiences (particularly for women), caregiver well-being, and the ethical implications of clinical diagnostic criteria. She explores how psychologists can better meet the needs of autistic clients by understanding stigma, identity, and language preferences. Her research often employs qualitative, survey, and mixed-methods approaches, with a strong emphasis on community consultation and participatory design.

Her recent publications span high-impact journals such as Cell, Nature Medicine, The Lancet, and Autism in Adulthood. These works examine topics including the gut microbiome in autism, lipidomics, caregiver participation, and neurodiversity-affirming practice. A recurring theme is the importance of listening to autistic voices and aligning clinical practice with neurodiversity principles.

• Faculty Research Prize, Swinburne University, 2016

Rachel has contributed to major collaborative research initiatives such as the Australian Autism Biobank and the Autism CRC. She has co-authored influential commentaries on diagnostic practices and has been involved in research on parent-delivered interventions and family well-being. While currently not available for student supervision, her prior thesis work focused on family functioning and parent mental health in families raising preschoolers with autism. She is also engaged in public outreach, including media and policy discussions, and aligns her work with Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being).