Meet Dr Rani Jacobs
Psychologist and wellbeing coach with over 25 years experience.
Bridging evidence-informed practice and intuitive wisdom to support deep, meaningful transformation.
As a licensed psychologist in Australia and a health and wellbeing coach in Australia and the U.S., I have the privilege of working with individuals and families navigating a diverse range of health, emotional, wellbeing, and neurodevelopmental needs.
My practice is shaped by both rigorous professional training and lived experience. Over my 25-year career, I have integrated training in mindfulness, meditation, Reiki, and energetic and intuitive healing systems into my work. These modalities have expanded my understanding of the delicate relationship between the mind, body, and nervous system, deepening the whole-person perspective I bring to every session
Lived Experience & Human Understanding
My perspective is profoundly shaped by my own journey through chronic health challenges. Walking alongside my eldest daughter through her successful recovery from an autoimmune condition and ME/CFS during her adolescence gave me a firsthand understanding of what it means to live through—and beyond—long-term illness. I experienced both the unique vulnerability of adolescence during times of health crisis—a critical time when identity and beliefs are forming and social connection is especially important, and the heavy toll that prolonged caregiving stress can take, which manifested in my own experience with chronic migraines.
Together, these experiences deepened my appreciation for the complex intersection of stress, physical health, emotional wellbeing, and nervous system regulation..
Combined with more than 25 years of clinical practice, these lived experiences allow me to offer care that is evidence-informed, practical, and deeply grounded in real-life understanding. They have shaped the way I work—infusing my practice with greater sensitivity, respect, and compassion for the unique challenges each individual and family carries. Above all, this journey has deepened my ability to discern what is most needed in any given moment, drawing on clinical expertise, evidence-based tools, and intuitive insight to gently guide your personal path toward healing, growth, and sustainable wellbeing.
Who I Am Passionate About Supporting
I am particularly dedicated to supporting young people, carers, and individuals living with complex or chronic health conditions.
Together, we focus on:
Building capacity and internal safety: Gently exploring the beliefs, patterns, and protective strategies that may no longer serve you.
Nervous system regulation: Calming chronic stress responses to support physical and emotional recovery.
Strengthening long-term resilience: Reconnecting with your innate bodily intelligence and inner wisdom to create sustainable, lasting change.
Please Note: Coaching services are designed for health and wellbeing guidance and do not include clinical diagnosis or prescribing. Australian psychological services operate under separate AHPRA professional guidelines.
As a licensed psychologist in Australia, and a health and wellbeing coach across the Australia and the U.S., I have the privilege of working with clients navigating a diverse range of health conditions, emotional, wellbeing needs, and neurodevelopmental needs.
My approach is shaped by both professional training and lived experience.
My background and training
My clinical and research background has given me a strong foundation in understanding, evaluating, and applying high-quality research. I integrate this knowledge thoughtfully with psychological expertise, mind–body awareness, and a human, flexible coaching approach.
Professional background
Licensed Psychologist in Australia
Clinical Research
Postgraduate Diploma in Child and Adolescent Psychology — University of Melbourne, Australia
PhD in Behavioral Psychology — University of Melbourne, Australia
Psychology & Coaching
Certificate in Health & Wellness Coaching — mindbodygreen
Certificate in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)
Certificate in CBT for Children and Adolescents
Certificate in Mindfulness-Integrated Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (MiCBT) — Foundation & Advanced Training
Professional development training: Play Therapy and CBT-integrated Play Therapy
Professional development training: Working with Children with Externalising Behaviours
Professional development training: Self-Care for Psychologists
Mind–body, wellbeing & intuitive approaches
Training in Meditation for Health
Certificate in Functional Nutrition — mindbodygreen
Training in Dynamic Energetic Healing
Training in Intuition Medicine® — Energy Anatomy and Healing Systems
Certificate in Reiki I
Psychic and Intuitive Certification — JVP School of Mystical Arts (currently completing)
Who I have supported
My work often focuses on the mental, emotional, and energetic impact of ongoing health or life challenges—helping people feel more like themselves again, even when circumstances haven’t fully changed. Over the years, I have supported carers, children, adolescents, young adults, and adults navigating a broad spectrum of wellbeing, neurodevelopmental, and health needs.
Areas of focus and Support:
1. Mental, Emotional & Relational Wellbeing
Anxiety, Chronic Stress & Burnout
Trauma & Recovery
Perfectionism & Overthinking Patterns
Body Image Concerns & Disordered Eating
Neurodiversity (including Autism, ADHD, Learning Differences, Giftedness, and Twice Exceptionality / 2e)Anxiety
2. Complex, Chronic & Neurological Health Conditions
Dysautonomia & Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)
Myalgic Encephalomyelitis / Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS)
Functional Neurological Disorder (FND)
Long-Term Fatigue & Physical Exhaustion
Autoimmune Conditions
Chronic Pain Conditions (such as CRPS, Fibromyalgia, and Neuropathic Pain)
Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) & Concussion Recovery
Epilepsy, Tourettes Syndrome
3. Clinical Psychological Practice (Australia)
In addition, in my capacity as a licensed psychologist in Australia, I have also provided clinical psychological support for:
Depression & Mood Support
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Phobias & Specific Fears
Eating Disorders
Complex Trauma
Self-Harm & Crisis Recovery
Personality Dynamics & DisordersAs a licensed psychologist In Australia, I also supported clients presenting with:
Depression
Self-harm
Obsessive compulsive disorder, phobias and fears
Eating disorder
Trauma
Personality Disorder
In their words:
Reflections from those I’ve worked with.
“Rani is an incredible health coach. She helped me to clarify exactly what I needed to improve my overall wellbeing and how to keep myself motivated. She is warm, compassionate, supportive and knowledgeable. I highly recommend Rani!” — Stephanie L
“I have worked with several psychologists over the years, and none of them compare to how exceptional Rani is. From the very beginning, Rani has been incredibly easy to talk to and has always created a safe, comfortable environment where I feel heard and understood. I trust Rani completely and feel confident bringing anything to our sessions, knowing she will guide me through whatever I am facing with care and insight. Her depth of knowledge is evident in the wide range of techniques and strategies she tailors to meet my needs. Working with Rani has truly helped me grow, both personally and emotionally. I am deeply grateful for her support and the positive impact she has had on my life”. -Lily K.
“What I appreciate most about Rani is how naturally she creates a safe and supportive space. She’s easy to talk to, genuinely compassionate, and always makes me feel heard without judgment. Her approach feels both thoughtful and practical, which made it much easier to create real, lasting change”. -Mel R.
My Publications
Edited Books:
Anderson, V., Jacobs, R., & Anderson, P. (Eds.) (2010). Executive functions and the frontal lobes: A life span approach. Psychology Press.
Book Chapters:
Smidts, D. P., Jacobs, R. & Anderson, V. (2018) The Object Classification Task for Children (OCTC): A measure of concept generation and flexibility in early childhood. Approaches to Understand Executive Control in Young Children. Pp 385-441
Anderson, V., Deery, B., Jacobs, R. & Kornberg, A. (2010). Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis and childhood multiple sclerosis. In Yeates, K., Ris, M.D., Taylor, H.G & Pennington, B.F. (Eds.). Pediatric Neuropsychology. Research, theory and practice. pp. 147-166.
Anderson, V., Anderson, P., Jacobs, R & Spencer-Smith, M (2010). Development and assessment of executive function: From preschool to adolescence. In Anderson, V., Jacobs, R. & Anderson, P. (Eds), Executive functions and the frontal lobes, pp 157-188.
Anderson, P., & Jacobs, R. (2008). Assessment of executive function in children and adolescents. In Anderson, V., Jacobs, R., & Anderson P. (Eds.), Executive functions and the frontal lobes: A life span approach. Psychology Press.
Anderson, V., Jacobs, R., & Anderson, P. (2008). Developmental processes: frontal lobes and executive function. In Anderson, V., Jacobs, R., & Anderson P. (Eds.), Executive functions and the frontal lobes: A life span approach. Psychology Press.
Anderson, V., Jacobs, R., & Harvey, A.S.(2008). Focal frontal lesions in children: Outcome from developmental and acquired injuries. In Anderson, V., Jacobs, R., & Anderson P. (Eds.), Executive functions and the frontal lobes: A life span approach. Psychology Press.
Anderson, V., & Jacobs, R. (2004). Frontal lobe damage in children: Interruptions to normal development. In P. Nolin & J-P Laurent (Eds.), Enfance and neuropsychologie: Interface entre la recherche at la clinique. Quebec: Press de l’Universite du Quebec.
Anderson, V., Levin, H., Jacobs, R. (2002). Executive functions following frontal lobe injury: A developmental perspective. In D. Stuss and R. Knight (Ed.). Principles of frontal lobe function. NY: Oxford University Press, pp. 504-527.
Anderson, V., Levin, H. & Jacobs, R. (2002). Developmental and acquired lesions of the frontal lobes in children: Neuropsychological implications. In, Stuss, D. & Knight, R. (Ed). Principles of Frontal Lobe Function, NY. Oxford University Press.
Book Review
Anderson, V., Jacobs, R. & Anderson, P. (2008). Phinneas Gage meets 21st century neuroscience-executive functions and the frontal lobes: A lifespan perspective. Journal of the International Neuropsychological Society, .15, #6, p 541. NY. Psychology Press.
Journal articles
Anderson, V., Spencer-Smith, M., Coleman, L., Anderson, P.J., Greenham, M., Jacobs, R., Lee, K.J. & Leventer, R. (2014). Predicting neurocognitive and behavioural outcome after early brain insult. Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology, 56(4), 329-336.
Gomes, A.M., Spencer-Smith, M., Jacobs, R., Coleman, L. & Anderson, V.A. (2012). Attention and social functioning in children with malformations of cortical development and stroke. Child Neuropsychology, 18(4), 392-403.
Long, B., Spencer-Smith, M.M., Jacobs, R., Mackay, M., Leventer, R., Barnes, C. & Anderson, V. (2011). Executive function following child stroke: impact of lesion size. Developmental Neuropsychology, 36 (8), 971-987.
Long, B.,Spencer-Smith, M.M. Jacobs, R., Mackay, M., Leventer, R., Barnes, C. & Anderson, V. (2011). Executive functioning following child stroke: the impact of lesion location. Journal of Child Neurology, 26(3), 279-287.
Spencer-Smith, M.M., Anderson, P., Jacobs, R., Coleman, L., Long, B. & Anderson, V. (2011). Does timing of brain insult have an impact on children’s attention? Developmental Neuropsychology, 36 (3), 353-366.
Jacobs, R., Harvey, A.S., & Anderson, V. (2011). Are executive skills primarily mediated by the prefrontal cortex in childhood? Examination of focal brain lesions in childhood. Cortex, 47(7), 808-824.
Gomes, A., Anderson, V., & Jacobs, R. (2011). Attention and social functioning in children with malformations of cortical development and stroke. Child Neuropsychology, 1(1) pp 1-12.
Anderson, V., Spencer-Smith, M, Coleman, L., Anderson, P., Williams, J., Greenham, M., Leventer, R.J.& Jacobs, R. (2010). Executive functions: Are they poorer after very early brain insult? Neuropsychologia, 48 (7), 2041-2050.
Anderson, V., Jacobs, R., Spencer-Smith, M., Coleman, L., Anderson, P., Williams, J., Greenham, M. & Leventer, R. (2010). Does early age at brain insult predict worse outcome? Neuropsychological implications. Journal of Pediatric Psychology35 (7), 716-727.
Deery, B., Anderson, V., Jacobs, R. Neale, J. & Kornberg, A.(2010). Childhood MS and ADEM: Investigation and comparison of neurocognitive features in children. Developmental Neuropsychology, 35(5), 506-521.
Long, B., Spencer-Smith, M.M., Jacobs, R., Mackay, M., Leventer, R. Barnes C., & Anderson, V. (2011). Executive Function Following Child Stroke: The Impact of Lesion Location. Journal of Child Neurology, 26 (3), 279-287.
Anderson, V., Spencer-Smith, M., Leventer, R., Coleman, L., Anderson, P., Williams, J., Greenham, M., & Jacobs, R. (2009). Childhood brain insult: can age at insult help us predict outcome? Brain, 132(1), 45-56.
Anderson, V., Spencer-Smith, M., Leventer, R., Coleman, L., Anderson, P., Williams, J., Greenham, M., & Jacobs, R. (2009). Reply. Early plasticity versus early vulnerability: the problem of heterogeneous lesion mechanism. Brain, online access.
Anderson, V., Spencer-Smith, M.M., Leventer, R., Coleman, L., Anderson, P., Williams, J., Greenham, M. & Jacobs, R. (2009). Reply: Timing of brain damage and verbal-performance IQ tilts. Brain, 132:e132
Anderson, V., Jacobs, R., Spencer-Smith, M., Coleman, L., Anderson, P., Williams, J., Greenham, M., & Leventer, R. (2009). Does early age at brain insult predict worse outcome? Journal of Pediatric Psychology, 35 (7), 716-727.
Parry-Fielder, B., Collins, K., Fisher, J., Keir, E., Anderson, V., Jacobs, R., Scheffer, I.E., & Nolan, T. (1999). Electroencephalographic abnormalities during sleep in children with developmental speech-language disorders: a case-control study. Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology, 51(3), 228-234.
Spencer-Smith, M., Leventer, R., Jacobs, R., deLuca, C., & Anderson, V. (2009). Neuropsychological profile of children with subcortical band heterotopia. Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology, 51(11), 909-916.
Jacobs, R., Harvey, A.S. & Anderson, V. (2007). Executive function following focal frontal lobe lesions: impact of timing of lesion on outcome. Cortex, 43(6), 792-805.
Briellmann, R., Little, T., Harvey, A.S., Abbott, A.F., Jacobs, R., Waites, A.B., Jackson, G.D. (in press). Pathological and physiological function of the inner band of 'double cortex'. Neurology, 67, 1090-1093.
Anderson, V., Jacobs, R., & Harvey, A.S. (2005). Prefrontal lesions and attentional skills in childhood. Journal of the International Neuropsychological Society, 11, 817-831.
Jacobs, R., Neale, J., Anderson, V., Kornberg, A. & Shield, L. (2004). Neuropsychological outcome following ADEM in childhood: Impact of age at illness onset. Pediatric Neurology, 31(3), 191-197.
Smidts, D., Jacobs, R., & Anderson, V. (2004). The Object Classification Task for Children (OCTC): A measure of concept generation and mental flexibility in early childhood. Developmental Neuropsychology, 26(1), 385-401.
Jacobs, R., & Anderson, V. (2002). Planning and problem solving skills following focal frontal brain lesions in childhood: Analysis using the Tower of London. Child Neuropsychology, 8(2), 93-106.
Couper, E., Jacobs, R., & Anderson, V. (2002). Adaptive behaviour and moral reasoning in children with frontal lobe lesions. Brain Impairment, 3(2), 105-113.
Anderson, D., Harvey, A., Anderson, Kean, M., Jacobs, R., Abbott, D., Saling, M. & Jackson, G. (2002). Differential language activation demonstrated by functional magnetic resonance imaging in twins discordant for a left frontal tumour. Journal of Child Neurology, 17, 766-769.
Anderson, V., Anderson P., Northam, E., Jacobs, R. & Mikiewicz, O. (2002). Relationships between cognitive and behavioural measures of executive function in children with brain disease. Child Neuropsychology, 8(4), 231-240.
Jacobs, R., Anderson, V. & Harvey, A.S. (2001). Neuropsychological profile of a girl with subcortical band heterotopia “double cortex”. Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology, 43; 628-633.
Jacobs, R., Northam, E. & Anderson, V. (2001). Cognitive outcome in children with myelomeningocele and perinatal hydrocephalus: A longitudinal perspective. Journal of Physical and Developmental Disabilities, 13 (4), 389-404.
Jacobs, R., Anderson, V. & Harvey, S. (2001). Concept Generation Test as a measure of conceptual reasoning skills in children: Examination of developmental trends. Clinical Neuropsychological Assessment, 2, 101-117.
Jacobs, R., Anderson, V. & Harvey, A.S. (2001). Behavioral ratings in children with focal frontal brain lesions: Initial impressions using the BRIEF. Brain and Cognition,47 (1-2), 207-210.
Northam, E., Anderson, P., Jacobs, R., Hughes, M., Werther, G., & Warne, G. (2001). Neuropsychological profiles of children with Type 1 diabetes 6 years after disease onset. Diabetes Care, 24 (9), 1541-1546.
Anderson, P., Anderson, V., Northam, E., Jacobs, R. & Catroppa, C. (2001). Development of executive functions through late childhood and adolescence: An Australian sample. Developmental Neuropsychology, 20(1), 385-406.