Counselling in New South Wales

Photo of Carolyn Farrugia, Counsellor in New South Wales
Carolyn Farrugia
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Twelve yrs experience working in Mental Health & addiction, as well as a life-time of personal experience, I am sensitive to the needs of those who are struggling to be with their emotions, work on their relationships and problem solve their issues without making their problems worse.
Specialising in Dialectical Behavour Therapy, with 8 years experience. Offering 1:1 DBT coaching for clients who are currently in trauma therapy or other.
Twelve yrs experience working in Mental Health & addiction, as well as a life-time of personal experience, I am sensitive to the needs of those who are struggling to be with their emotions, work on their relationships and problem solve their issues without making their problems worse.
Specialising in Dialectical Behavour Therapy, with 8 years experience. Offering 1:1 DBT coaching for clients who are currently in trauma therapy or other.
(02) 7804 4223 View (02) 7804 4223
Photo of Yao Chen, Psychotherapist in New South Wales
Yao Yao Chen
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Camden, NSW 2570
I am passionate about my work with trauma, addiction, relationships, anger, neurodiversity, LGBTGIA+. I have been described as quirky, clinical, calm, funny, and inquisitive. I value working things through with a client that are happening within or outside of sessions.
I am passionate about my work with trauma, addiction, relationships, anger, neurodiversity, LGBTGIA+. I have been described as quirky, clinical, calm, funny, and inquisitive. I value working things through with a client that are happening within or outside of sessions.
(02) 4214 8112 View (02) 4214 8112
Photo of Jon Farham, Counsellor in New South Wales
Jon Farham
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Wamberal, NSW 2260
If you feel that you are struggling with your mental well-being, feel disconnected from yourself, others, or life, or have an issue with substance use or another form of addiction, please reach out for a confidential chat.
Even though you might not always feel like it, you are the expert in your own life. Life's complexities can often leave us feeling overwhelmed, confused, and adrift, lacking purpose and direction. This can lead to adopting unhealthy coping mechanisms to avoid thoughts and feelings altogether. My approach involves treating you with empathy, acceptance, and without judgment in a practical and supportive manner. Together, we will collaborate to rediscover your strengths, nurture resilience, and unlock your potential for growth, facilitating the changes you desire. I firmly believe in the possibility of positive change.
If you feel that you are struggling with your mental well-being, feel disconnected from yourself, others, or life, or have an issue with substance use or another form of addiction, please reach out for a confidential chat.
Even though you might not always feel like it, you are the expert in your own life. Life's complexities can often leave us feeling overwhelmed, confused, and adrift, lacking purpose and direction. This can lead to adopting unhealthy coping mechanisms to avoid thoughts and feelings altogether. My approach involves treating you with empathy, acceptance, and without judgment in a practical and supportive manner. Together, we will collaborate to rediscover your strengths, nurture resilience, and unlock your potential for growth, facilitating the changes you desire. I firmly believe in the possibility of positive change.
(02) 4307 6406 View (02) 4307 6406
Photo of One Seed Sydney , Psychotherapist in New South Wales
One Seed Sydney
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Potts Point, NSW 2011
Tobi Harris is a mindful and positive psychotherapist. She is dedicated to supporting clients to navigate their own journey and she offers the skills when necessary to help. She works with clients that present with issues and diagnosis such as Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Addiction Issues, Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Loss, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Insomnia, Relationship Issues, Eating Disorders, Emotional Dysregulation and Sexuality and Identity. She uses several evidence -based modalities to work with her clients.
Tobi Harris is a mindful and positive psychotherapist. She is dedicated to supporting clients to navigate their own journey and she offers the skills when necessary to help. She works with clients that present with issues and diagnosis such as Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Addiction Issues, Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Loss, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Insomnia, Relationship Issues, Eating Disorders, Emotional Dysregulation and Sexuality and Identity. She uses several evidence -based modalities to work with her clients.
(02) 9100 0045 View (02) 9100 0045
Photo of Stickbymecounselling - Johanna , Counsellor in New South Wales
Stickbymecounselling - Johanna
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pyrmont, NSW 2009
Johanna focuses on working with singles, couples, and families. She also works with men's sexual health difficulties, delayed ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, and out-of-control sexual behaviours like porn addiction in addition to family therapy, fertility challenges, and low libido, women's sexual health issues, including preconceptions and conception, hypoactive sexual desire disorder .Johanna is sex worker friendly. Johanna is capable of working with poly/open partnerships and is LGBTQ, kink, and fetish friendly. Johanna also works with clients of the NDIS.
Johanna focuses on working with singles, couples, and families. She also works with men's sexual health difficulties, delayed ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, and out-of-control sexual behaviours like porn addiction in addition to family therapy, fertility challenges, and low libido, women's sexual health issues, including preconceptions and conception, hypoactive sexual desire disorder .Johanna is sex worker friendly. Johanna is capable of working with poly/open partnerships and is LGBTQ, kink, and fetish friendly. Johanna also works with clients of the NDIS.
(02) 9100 0121 View (02) 9100 0121
Photo of Online Trauma Brainspotting Counsellor, Counsellor in New South Wales
Online Trauma Brainspotting Counsellor
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000  (Online Only)
Brainspotting liberates brains from irrational fears, addiction, PTSD, OCD eating disorders, anxiety, & resolves trauma.
Dr Astrid Staley has 15+ years of experience using talk therapies, Neuropsychotherapy & Brainspotting, a cutting-edge therapy to move people toward optimal functioning. Her experience extends to Christian & non-Christian contexts. Choose a preferred style to support a holistic approach to wellbeing in body, mind, spirit. Counselling/Coaching/ Supervision packages. Specialised ages 16+ ADHD Coaching/ Counselling support & Eating Disorder Recovery Coaching/Counselling support. Neuro Change Personal Development Coaching/Counselling package. Supporting clients 16+ years.
Brainspotting liberates brains from irrational fears, addiction, PTSD, OCD eating disorders, anxiety, & resolves trauma.
Dr Astrid Staley has 15+ years of experience using talk therapies, Neuropsychotherapy & Brainspotting, a cutting-edge therapy to move people toward optimal functioning. Her experience extends to Christian & non-Christian contexts. Choose a preferred style to support a holistic approach to wellbeing in body, mind, spirit. Counselling/Coaching/ Supervision packages. Specialised ages 16+ ADHD Coaching/ Counselling support & Eating Disorder Recovery Coaching/Counselling support. Neuro Change Personal Development Coaching/Counselling package. Supporting clients 16+ years.
(03) 5615 6373 View (03) 5615 6373
Photo of Ingrid Glanowski - Emotional Growth, Psychologist in New South Wales
Ingrid Glanowski - Emotional Growth
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000  (Online Only)
She works with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, stress, childhood trauma, addiction, self-esteem and grief.
Ingrid is registered psychologist who provides primarily after hours online therapy to adults via Telehealth. In therapy, the environment Ingrid creates is compassionate, animated and genuine. She enjoys building long-lasting and meaningful connections with clients, knowing that this can be a catalyst for a successful experience in therapy. Ingrid is specifically interested in clients who present with developmental/relational-trauma and utilises her knowledge of attachment theory and family systems to help clients develop a deeper understanding of themselves.
She works with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, stress, childhood trauma, addiction, self-esteem and grief.
Ingrid is registered psychologist who provides primarily after hours online therapy to adults via Telehealth. In therapy, the environment Ingrid creates is compassionate, animated and genuine. She enjoys building long-lasting and meaningful connections with clients, knowing that this can be a catalyst for a successful experience in therapy. Ingrid is specifically interested in clients who present with developmental/relational-trauma and utilises her knowledge of attachment theory and family systems to help clients develop a deeper understanding of themselves.
(03) 9994 1814 View (03) 9994 1814
Photo of Prakash K C, Psychotherapist in New South Wales
Prakash K C
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Queanbeyan, NSW 2620
I am an experienced trauma informed and holistic therapist who has provided counselling support to - children and teenagers, adults, couples, and families - struggling with a wide range of issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, addiction, spiritual issues, workplace conflicts, conflict with spouse or partner, parent-child conflicts, etc.
We human possess significant resilience, yet we are very vulnerable. There are numerous stressors around us that can affect our wellbeing and can cause sadness, anger, loneliness, sense of unfulfillment, etc. Sometimes painful memories from the past don’t allow us to create new memories. Our own thoughts and beliefs work against us at times. Behaviours that were once soothing and comfortable, over time, become destructive. Coping with loss can be extremely challenging. Argument and unresolved conflicts can damage our intimate relationships. Family members not getting along can result in lot of distress. And counselling can help.
I am an experienced trauma informed and holistic therapist who has provided counselling support to - children and teenagers, adults, couples, and families - struggling with a wide range of issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, addiction, spiritual issues, workplace conflicts, conflict with spouse or partner, parent-child conflicts, etc.
We human possess significant resilience, yet we are very vulnerable. There are numerous stressors around us that can affect our wellbeing and can cause sadness, anger, loneliness, sense of unfulfillment, etc. Sometimes painful memories from the past don’t allow us to create new memories. Our own thoughts and beliefs work against us at times. Behaviours that were once soothing and comfortable, over time, become destructive. Coping with loss can be extremely challenging. Argument and unresolved conflicts can damage our intimate relationships. Family members not getting along can result in lot of distress. And counselling can help.
(02) 5941 6880 View (02) 5941 6880
Photo of Family Psychology Practice, Psychologist in New South Wales
Family Psychology Practice
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Manly Vale, NSW 2093
Informed by attachment theory, we specialise in the area of trauma, separations, loss, anxiety, grief, child psychology, adolescent issues, perinatal depression, addiction and parenting issues.
Family Psychology Practice is a specialist therapeutic service for children, adolescents and adults. Our practice is a safe place for individuals and families to explore complex issues. Our work is always evidence based and using best practice approaches. We believe that small changes, new ideas or a change of perspective can sometimes be the difference that people need. Our Psychologists and Psychotherapists are fully registered mental health providers. Our Psychologists are Medicare providers. In consultation with a GP, treatment can be provided under Better Access to Mental Health Programme, Psychological Access Plus, Workcover.
Informed by attachment theory, we specialise in the area of trauma, separations, loss, anxiety, grief, child psychology, adolescent issues, perinatal depression, addiction and parenting issues.
Family Psychology Practice is a specialist therapeutic service for children, adolescents and adults. Our practice is a safe place for individuals and families to explore complex issues. Our work is always evidence based and using best practice approaches. We believe that small changes, new ideas or a change of perspective can sometimes be the difference that people need. Our Psychologists and Psychotherapists are fully registered mental health providers. Our Psychologists are Medicare providers. In consultation with a GP, treatment can be provided under Better Access to Mental Health Programme, Psychological Access Plus, Workcover.
(02) 8320 0355 View (02) 8320 0355
Photo of Alexander Rodriguez, Counsellor in New South Wales
Alexander Rodriguez
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Blacktown, NSW 2148
I support people through a range of challenges including: Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, Relationships, Identity Crisis and Isolation.
I am committed to helping clients work through the challenges they face. I believe that every challenge in life is an opportunity for growth, and I actively work with clients to turn their challenges into life changing opportunities. I understand that each person has the capacity to find the answers they seek within themselves, and I actively work with clients by deeply exploring the areas of concern and creating the conditions where the answers can be revealed. In this way, my counselling sessions are geared towards self-exploration which ultimately enable client growth and self-awareness.
I support people through a range of challenges including: Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, Relationships, Identity Crisis and Isolation.
I am committed to helping clients work through the challenges they face. I believe that every challenge in life is an opportunity for growth, and I actively work with clients to turn their challenges into life changing opportunities. I understand that each person has the capacity to find the answers they seek within themselves, and I actively work with clients by deeply exploring the areas of concern and creating the conditions where the answers can be revealed. In this way, my counselling sessions are geared towards self-exploration which ultimately enable client growth and self-awareness.
(02) 8261 0770 View (02) 8261 0770
Photo of Dr. Tania Emis - Green Psychology Clinic, Psychologist in New South Wales
Dr. Tania Emis - Green Psychology Clinic
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Mascot, NSW 2020
Our team of experienced and compassionate therapists are highly trained and specialize in treating a wide array of mental health disorders such as ADHD, ASD, Substance Misuse, BPD, OCD, Depression, Anxiety, personality disorders, learning disabilities, trauma, and more.
I am a trained and licensed professional with 9 years of experience working with people experiencing challenges with depression, stress, burnout, trauma or a family situation, the death of a loved one, the loss of a job, social anxiety, or fears. I work with a team of psychologists, testing specialists and a psychiatrist who treat children and adults with issues ranging from anxiety to dealing with changes in life. Our Clinic has provided affordable therapy and psychoanalysis for over 9 years. As a Registered Clinical Psychologist in private practice, I work online via videoconference in English and Russian.
Our team of experienced and compassionate therapists are highly trained and specialize in treating a wide array of mental health disorders such as ADHD, ASD, Substance Misuse, BPD, OCD, Depression, Anxiety, personality disorders, learning disabilities, trauma, and more.
I am a trained and licensed professional with 9 years of experience working with people experiencing challenges with depression, stress, burnout, trauma or a family situation, the death of a loved one, the loss of a job, social anxiety, or fears. I work with a team of psychologists, testing specialists and a psychiatrist who treat children and adults with issues ranging from anxiety to dealing with changes in life. Our Clinic has provided affordable therapy and psychoanalysis for over 9 years. As a Registered Clinical Psychologist in private practice, I work online via videoconference in English and Russian.
(02) 9100 0575 View (02) 9100 0575
Photo of Khalil Dolatyar, Psychologist in New South Wales
Khalil Dolatyar
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
I am a registered psychologist with expertise spanning across the lifespan, working with children, adolescents, and adults across various funding avenues including Private, Medicare, and NDIS. My practice encompasses assessment, treatment, and management of a diverse range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, marital conflicts, autism, ADHD, psychosis, workplace interpersonal difficulties, and various life stressors such as chronic illness, unemployment, financial challenges, grief, and divorce. Additionally, I conduct cognitive assessments for both children and adults.
I am a registered psychologist with expertise spanning across the lifespan, working with children, adolescents, and adults across various funding avenues including Private, Medicare, and NDIS. My practice encompasses assessment, treatment, and management of a diverse range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, marital conflicts, autism, ADHD, psychosis, workplace interpersonal difficulties, and various life stressors such as chronic illness, unemployment, financial challenges, grief, and divorce. Additionally, I conduct cognitive assessments for both children and adults.
(02) 6189 2642 View (02) 6189 2642
Photo of Sydney Strategic Therapy-Hypnotherapy/Counselling, Counsellor in New South Wales
Sydney Strategic Therapy-Hypnotherapy/Counselling
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Not Verified Not Verified
Kareela, NSW 2232
Clinical Hypnotherapy/Counselling/Psychotherapy can help you manage a busy life by facilitating effective strategies that support you. I treat issues with phobia's, addiction, weight loss, sleep, relationship issues, performance, grief, anxiety, stress within a warm, relaxed, non-judgemental environment I will provide guidance to assist you to: Develop new insights into the nature and origins of your current difficulties. Identify & challenge the behaviours, thoughts & beliefs that are creating distress. You will discover new ways of thinking and behaving that enhance well-being and allow you to achieve your full potential.
Clinical Hypnotherapy/Counselling/Psychotherapy can help you manage a busy life by facilitating effective strategies that support you. I treat issues with phobia's, addiction, weight loss, sleep, relationship issues, performance, grief, anxiety, stress within a warm, relaxed, non-judgemental environment I will provide guidance to assist you to: Develop new insights into the nature and origins of your current difficulties. Identify & challenge the behaviours, thoughts & beliefs that are creating distress. You will discover new ways of thinking and behaving that enhance well-being and allow you to achieve your full potential.
(02) 9159 6172 View (02) 9159 6172
Resolve Psychological Services
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Avoca Beach, NSW 2251
Experienced with many issues including disability, alcohol and other substance use problems, gambling, vocation, personal injury, relationships and immediate crisis.
The issues for clients can be many and varied, single or multiple including mental health, personal crisis, relationships, poverty, employment, substances etc. Clients want to be listened to in a non judgemental manner and helped to explore their world. The want to be enabled and empowered to get things better because the current is almost unbearable
Experienced with many issues including disability, alcohol and other substance use problems, gambling, vocation, personal injury, relationships and immediate crisis.
The issues for clients can be many and varied, single or multiple including mental health, personal crisis, relationships, poverty, employment, substances etc. Clients want to be listened to in a non judgemental manner and helped to explore their world. The want to be enabled and empowered to get things better because the current is almost unbearable
(02) 4306 7772 View (02) 4306 7772
Photo of Holly Read, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New South Wales
Holly Read
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
I also hold specialist knowledge and experience supporting people to address substance use issues, and/or addiction challenges.
I have been supporting adults & young people with their mental health challenges for over 19 years, working with diverse populations, with clients from varied backgrounds and abilities. Including, over 13 years of experience working with a range of presenting issues in the field of clinical adolescent mental health and Indigenous health. With extensive counselling and psychotherapy experience obtained in a variety of setting including, but not limited to; private practise, NSW Health Dept, Corrective Services, Education Dept, private High Schools, Universities, private detox, and rehabilitation services.
I also hold specialist knowledge and experience supporting people to address substance use issues, and/or addiction challenges.
I have been supporting adults & young people with their mental health challenges for over 19 years, working with diverse populations, with clients from varied backgrounds and abilities. Including, over 13 years of experience working with a range of presenting issues in the field of clinical adolescent mental health and Indigenous health. With extensive counselling and psychotherapy experience obtained in a variety of setting including, but not limited to; private practise, NSW Health Dept, Corrective Services, Education Dept, private High Schools, Universities, private detox, and rehabilitation services.
(02) 4210 5768 View (02) 4210 5768
Photo of Alex Galeazzi, Counsellor in New South Wales
Alex Galeazzi
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Woolloomooloo, NSW 2011
We tackle addiction triggers, dissect unhealthy relationship patterns, and explore marriage breakdowns.
My ideal client is someone seeking guidance and support on their journey of self-discovery and healing. They're dealing with fears, challenges, and anxieties, as well as trauma, shame, and abandonment issues. Open to exploring their authentic self, they value feeling seen, heard, and acknowledged in our sessions. They're committed to actively participating in talk therapy, delving into their childhood attachments and past experiences to gain deeper understanding. They prioritise their emotional well-being and are willing to engage in a safe and confidential therapeutic environment to address their needs and foster personal growth.
We tackle addiction triggers, dissect unhealthy relationship patterns, and explore marriage breakdowns.
My ideal client is someone seeking guidance and support on their journey of self-discovery and healing. They're dealing with fears, challenges, and anxieties, as well as trauma, shame, and abandonment issues. Open to exploring their authentic self, they value feeling seen, heard, and acknowledged in our sessions. They're committed to actively participating in talk therapy, delving into their childhood attachments and past experiences to gain deeper understanding. They prioritise their emotional well-being and are willing to engage in a safe and confidential therapeutic environment to address their needs and foster personal growth.
(02) 9100 0545 View (02) 9100 0545
Photo of Tracey Fairweather - The Counselling Therapist, Counsellor in New South Wales
Tracey Fairweather - The Counselling Therapist
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Fairy Meadow, NSW 2519
Specialty areas include, mental health and wellness, anxiety, depression, stress, grief, loss, addiction and self esteem, amongst many of life challenges we can face.
Hello and welcome to your Counselling Therapist Tracey. I absolutely love my work in the helping profession and would be honoured to hear your story. At times our lives can be turned upside down or spiral out of control. We can feel overwhelmed, anxious and isolated not knowing how to manage these experiences. My aim as your therapist is to listen, support and walk along side you during these difficult times. I would assist in helping you find your inner strength to empower you on your journey to a more meaningful way of life.
Specialty areas include, mental health and wellness, anxiety, depression, stress, grief, loss, addiction and self esteem, amongst many of life challenges we can face.
Hello and welcome to your Counselling Therapist Tracey. I absolutely love my work in the helping profession and would be honoured to hear your story. At times our lives can be turned upside down or spiral out of control. We can feel overwhelmed, anxious and isolated not knowing how to manage these experiences. My aim as your therapist is to listen, support and walk along side you during these difficult times. I would assist in helping you find your inner strength to empower you on your journey to a more meaningful way of life.
(02) 4607 2752 View (02) 4607 2752
Photo of Richard Elms Therapy Training Consulting, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New South Wales
Richard Elms Therapy Training Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000  (Online Only)
Richard provides therapy for children, adolescents & adults with issues including anxiety & depression, behavioural problems, domestic violence, anger problems, sexual abuse, addiction, disability, trauma, parenting challenges, relationship problems etc.
Richard Elms is an experienced therapist, offering compassionate and solution focussed counselling, working together with his clients to create meaningful and lasting change in their lives. Richard also provides clinical and professional supervision as well as training to other professionals.
Richard provides therapy for children, adolescents & adults with issues including anxiety & depression, behavioural problems, domestic violence, anger problems, sexual abuse, addiction, disability, trauma, parenting challenges, relationship problems etc.
Richard Elms is an experienced therapist, offering compassionate and solution focussed counselling, working together with his clients to create meaningful and lasting change in their lives. Richard also provides clinical and professional supervision as well as training to other professionals.
(07) 5241 2997 View (07) 5241 2997
Photo of Dr Nicolas Kessous, Psychologist in New South Wales
Dr Nicolas Kessous
Psychologist, PsychD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000  (Online Only)
, depression, anxiety, anger, obsessions/compulsions, substance misuse, psychosis).
I am a clinical and forensic psychologist registered with the Psychology Board of Australia. I am also a member of the Australian Psychological Society, and a clinical member of the Association for the Treatment & Prevention of Sexual Abuse. I was trained to practise psychology in Canada, where I began my career as a psychologist in 2013.
, depression, anxiety, anger, obsessions/compulsions, substance misuse, psychosis).
I am a clinical and forensic psychologist registered with the Psychology Board of Australia. I am also a member of the Australian Psychological Society, and a clinical member of the Association for the Treatment & Prevention of Sexual Abuse. I was trained to practise psychology in Canada, where I began my career as a psychologist in 2013.
View
Photo of Brendan Partridge, Psychologist in New South Wales
Brendan Partridge
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
I am a Clinical Psychologist readily available to assist you in understanding and improving your quality of life. I have extensive public/private sector experience in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of psychological disorders for those aged 12 years & above. I have a worked closely with a broad age, cultural, and gender diverse demographic, helping people work through a range presenting issues. My expertise includes adolescent mental health, men's mental health, relationship and family stressors, trauma, workplace injury, personality disorders, grief & loss, anger management, and substance use issues.
I am a Clinical Psychologist readily available to assist you in understanding and improving your quality of life. I have extensive public/private sector experience in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of psychological disorders for those aged 12 years & above. I have a worked closely with a broad age, cultural, and gender diverse demographic, helping people work through a range presenting issues. My expertise includes adolescent mental health, men's mental health, relationship and family stressors, trauma, workplace injury, personality disorders, grief & loss, anger management, and substance use issues.
(02) 4504 0257 View (02) 4504 0257

See more therapy options for New South Wales

Addiction Counsellors

What is the best therapy for addiction?

Addiction treatment will be tailored to the individual. People seeking help for addiction—whether with a psychotherapist, in an outpatient clinic, or in a residential program—should expect to engage in multiple types of treatments, sometimes including medication. For anyone recovering from addiction, avoiding situations in which one has typically used a substance is essential, as is the support of close connections. Since substance use disorders tend to co-occur with underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression, those must also be addressed as part of any recovery plan.

How long does therapy for addiction take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from addiction. Patients and their families should expect the work to last several months, if not longer. Residential treatment programs may be based on a stay of 30, 60, or 90 days, with continuing work after release, but only about 1 percent of people are treated in such facilities. Ceasing use is just the first step; therapy to help maintain abstinence and effect behavior change must follow. The process of recovery, neuroscience has shown, involves brain cells recovering the capacity to respond to natural sources of reward and restore control over the impulse to use. Another definition of recovery is restoring voluntary control over one’s substance use and retaking all of one’s previous responsibilities.

How effective is drug addiction treatment?

Substance use disorders are treatable and remission is achievable for many who seek recovery; by some estimates, more than three-quarters of people who become addicted to alcohol or drugs recover. But that success rarely occurs quickly or on a set timeline; relapse is not only common, but many therapists and clinicians view it as a normal part of the process—not always a sign that a person has returned to addiction, but a signal that their treatment should be adjusted to help them regain control. Overall, research suggests, five years after the end of substance use, one’s risk of relapse is no greater than that of others who had not faced addiction. Other experts believe that complete abstinence is not the only measure of recovery, and that, through effective treatment, many people can learn to control their use.

How can you get addiction treatment for someone?

The most important factor in recovery from addiction is widely understood to be an individual’s commitment to change. For that reason,“interventions” in which friends and family gather to urge or force someone to begin immediate treatment often backfire; even when such efforts do lead someone to begin treatment, they may be less likely to stay than those who are self-driven. Still, family members can play an important role in supporting an individual who seeks help and can take part in family therapy as one element of a loved one’s treatment.