Family Psychologists and Therapists in Australian Capital Territory

Photo of Sinead Newman, Counsellor, PACFA
Sinead Newman
Counsellor, PACFA
Deakin, ACT 2600
My ideal client is ready to face their challenges and find healing. They may be struggling with anxiety, trauma, grief, or relationship difficulties, or navigating the unique challenges of being LGBTQIA+ or living with ADHD. They are looking for a safe, non-judgmental space to be truly heard and understood. Their goal is to move beyond simply coping with their symptoms and build a life that feels authentic and fulfilling. Ultimately, they want to reclaim their power, build resilience, and discover a path forward that is defined by their strengths, not their struggles.
My ideal client is ready to face their challenges and find healing. They may be struggling with anxiety, trauma, grief, or relationship difficulties, or navigating the unique challenges of being LGBTQIA+ or living with ADHD. They are looking for a safe, non-judgmental space to be truly heard and understood. Their goal is to move beyond simply coping with their symptoms and build a life that feels authentic and fulfilling. Ultimately, they want to reclaim their power, build resilience, and discover a path forward that is defined by their strengths, not their struggles.
(02) 5118 9015 View (02) 5118 9015
Photo of Dominica Lorimer, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Dominica Lorimer
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I want you and your family to live abundantly. By sharing the journey with empathy and understanding, we will work together to move from where you are now to where you want to be. I am a qualified counsellor with a background in early childhood education and home schooling. I work with individuals, couples and families. Meet me in person or online sessions in a safe and calm environment to achieve your goals. My particular interests are in family systems, couples’ therapy, employment, and the impacts of covid-related measures. I have completed a Master of Counselling degree, am a member ACA and an associate member of CCAA.
I want you and your family to live abundantly. By sharing the journey with empathy and understanding, we will work together to move from where you are now to where you want to be. I am a qualified counsellor with a background in early childhood education and home schooling. I work with individuals, couples and families. Meet me in person or online sessions in a safe and calm environment to achieve your goals. My particular interests are in family systems, couples’ therapy, employment, and the impacts of covid-related measures. I have completed a Master of Counselling degree, am a member ACA and an associate member of CCAA.
(02) 5135 1617 View (02) 5135 1617
Photo of Audrey Margaret Sarmiento - Enrei Counselling, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Enrei Counselling
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Canberra, ACT 2601
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, trauma, grief or identity struggles? You don’t have to face it alone. I’m Audrey, the counsellor behind Enrei Counselling, providing trauma-informed, culturally sensitive support to adults across Australia. Together, we’ll create a safe, compassionate space to gently explore your emotions and attachment experiences. Through deepening emotional awareness, we’ll heal relational wounds, strengthen your connections, and build emotional resilience. You can expect greater emotional insight, healing from past hurts, practical tools for managing anxiety and grief, and support that honours your identity.
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, trauma, grief or identity struggles? You don’t have to face it alone. I’m Audrey, the counsellor behind Enrei Counselling, providing trauma-informed, culturally sensitive support to adults across Australia. Together, we’ll create a safe, compassionate space to gently explore your emotions and attachment experiences. Through deepening emotional awareness, we’ll heal relational wounds, strengthen your connections, and build emotional resilience. You can expect greater emotional insight, healing from past hurts, practical tools for managing anxiety and grief, and support that honours your identity.
(02) 5133 6270 View (02) 5133 6270
Photo of Shaista Waqar, Counsellor, PhD, PACFA
Shaista Waqar
Counsellor, PhD, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Cook, ACT 2614
Big life changes can leave you feeling all kinds of lost—like you’re not quite sure who you are anymore or how to fit in. Maybe past experiences keep showing up uninvited. Maybe your relationships feel distant, or you’re stuck between cultures, trying to hold on to who you are while adapting to something new. If this sounds familiar, I see you—and I’m here for you. For over 20 years, I’ve worked with people from all walks of life, especially migrants navigating identity and belonging. I offer a warm, safe space to talk things through, get unstuck, and start healing.
Big life changes can leave you feeling all kinds of lost—like you’re not quite sure who you are anymore or how to fit in. Maybe past experiences keep showing up uninvited. Maybe your relationships feel distant, or you’re stuck between cultures, trying to hold on to who you are while adapting to something new. If this sounds familiar, I see you—and I’m here for you. For over 20 years, I’ve worked with people from all walks of life, especially migrants navigating identity and belonging. I offer a warm, safe space to talk things through, get unstuck, and start healing.
(02) 5944 5752 View (02) 5944 5752
Photo of darleen Barton - DIPAC Counselling, Therapy, Mediation & Coaching , Counsellor, ACA-L2
Specialised training Darleen’s specialist training includes: Advanced Dip Psychology / Counselling Advance Dip Legal Mediation (preventative Law) C B T Practitioner Dip Personal / Professional / Coaching Family Coaching Recovery Coaching
Special areas of interest Childhood trauma in adults, IVF fertility, post and pre-natal depression, pregnancy, parenting (young children/teenagers), same sex couples, young couples, couples with young families, senior couples, extended families/in-laws, affairs, couples in business, grief and loss/trauma, anxiety, depression, addictions, sexual trauma.
Specialised training Darleen’s specialist training includes: Advanced Dip Psychology / Counselling Advance Dip Legal Mediation (preventative Law) C B T Practitioner Dip Personal / Professional / Coaching Family Coaching Recovery Coaching
Special areas of interest Childhood trauma in adults, IVF fertility, post and pre-natal depression, pregnancy, parenting (young children/teenagers), same sex couples, young couples, couples with young families, senior couples, extended families/in-laws, affairs, couples in business, grief and loss/trauma, anxiety, depression, addictions, sexual trauma.
(02) 5118 9826 View (02) 5118 9826
Photo of Ruby A Bellchambers - Inner Motus Therapy, Counsellor, ACA-L3
Inner Motus Therapy
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Cook, ACT 2614
I use somatic tools, Parts work, Internal Family Systems, Emotionally Focused Therapy, breathwork and process work to release or integrate patterns that no longer serve us.
I’m Ruby, owner of Inner Motus Therapy. I am a Counsellor and a Breathwork practitioner. I work with individuals, couples and parents who feel stuck in patterns. I specialise in Gottmans couples therapy, attachment theory & trauma. I create a safe place to work through trauma, conflict, communication and intimacy at a deep and practical level. I use talk therapy and somatic practices to shift belief systems, thought patterns and actions. I work with clients with a gentle approach to help integrate or find new ways of being that help us move towards what we want and need. I want to help clients put the learning into action.
I use somatic tools, Parts work, Internal Family Systems, Emotionally Focused Therapy, breathwork and process work to release or integrate patterns that no longer serve us.
I’m Ruby, owner of Inner Motus Therapy. I am a Counsellor and a Breathwork practitioner. I work with individuals, couples and parents who feel stuck in patterns. I specialise in Gottmans couples therapy, attachment theory & trauma. I create a safe place to work through trauma, conflict, communication and intimacy at a deep and practical level. I use talk therapy and somatic practices to shift belief systems, thought patterns and actions. I work with clients with a gentle approach to help integrate or find new ways of being that help us move towards what we want and need. I want to help clients put the learning into action.
(02) 8105 6471 x61 View (02) 8105 6471 x61
Photo of Nisha Mohan, Counsellor, MSc, ACA-L2
Nisha Mohan
Counsellor, MSc, ACA-L2
Online Only
I strongly believe that every person has a purpose and set of skills/strengths they bring into this world; however, that sometimes inconvenient/negative circumstances or unhealthy relationships can derail this potential by planting a seed of self-doubt into our minds. Regardless of where it applies to an individual's life (e.g. marriage, career, etc.), it would be my privilege to help clients along the way to achieving their life goals/vision by helping them identify and deal with any stumbling blocks in their way. Life loves to throw curveballs (it wouldn't be interesting if it didn't), but I'd love to prepare my clients for them!
I strongly believe that every person has a purpose and set of skills/strengths they bring into this world; however, that sometimes inconvenient/negative circumstances or unhealthy relationships can derail this potential by planting a seed of self-doubt into our minds. Regardless of where it applies to an individual's life (e.g. marriage, career, etc.), it would be my privilege to help clients along the way to achieving their life goals/vision by helping them identify and deal with any stumbling blocks in their way. Life loves to throw curveballs (it wouldn't be interesting if it didn't), but I'd love to prepare my clients for them!
(02) 5121 7423 View (02) 5121 7423
Photo of Lyndsey Houghton - Umbrella Counselling , Counsellor, ACA-L2
Umbrella Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Canberra, ACT 2601
Waitlist for new clients
I am open and inclusive and have twenty years of working with teenagers and their families behind me.
My speciality is working with neurodiverse clients as well as teenagers and families. I am passionate about taking a person-centred approach to therapy and seek to understand your story from your point of view. As a late diagnosis ADHD woman myself I understand some of the experienced that come with not understanding yourself fully until later in life.
I am open and inclusive and have twenty years of working with teenagers and their families behind me.
My speciality is working with neurodiverse clients as well as teenagers and families. I am passionate about taking a person-centred approach to therapy and seek to understand your story from your point of view. As a late diagnosis ADHD woman myself I understand some of the experienced that come with not understanding yourself fully until later in life.
(02) 5941 6680 View (02) 5941 6680
Photo of Jeanette Holland, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Jeanette Holland
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Griffith, ACT 2603
I am a certified EFT therapist and use this modality for my work with Individuals, Couples and Families.
Overwhelmed by life’s challenges and feeling stuck, lonely, and isolated In your most important relationships? We can work together to uncover and understand the impact of childhood attachment, trauma, shame, bullying and racism on our relationships, chronic pain and addiction. Has your past prevented you from living the life and having the relationships you long for? Through therapy, we can gain insight and awareness into your inner distress and conflict and work towards healing, self acceptance, love and gratitude. You will also learn how to improve and understand your most important relationships.
I am a certified EFT therapist and use this modality for my work with Individuals, Couples and Families.
Overwhelmed by life’s challenges and feeling stuck, lonely, and isolated In your most important relationships? We can work together to uncover and understand the impact of childhood attachment, trauma, shame, bullying and racism on our relationships, chronic pain and addiction. Has your past prevented you from living the life and having the relationships you long for? Through therapy, we can gain insight and awareness into your inner distress and conflict and work towards healing, self acceptance, love and gratitude. You will also learn how to improve and understand your most important relationships.
(02) 6188 7462 View (02) 6188 7462
Photo of Simon Tidy, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L4
Simon Tidy
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Forrest, ACT 2603
Waitlist for new clients
I am registered counsellor with a Masters in Counselling who can assist you to navigate through personal and relationship challenges and achieve positive outcomes in order to live a more satisfying and rewarding life. I offer an integrative approach, drawing on a number of therapeutic techniques that allows me as a therapist to use the most effective method available to address your individual needs. I offer counselling services both online or face to face in safe and comfortable therapeutic space where you can feel free to share your thoughts and feelings.
I am registered counsellor with a Masters in Counselling who can assist you to navigate through personal and relationship challenges and achieve positive outcomes in order to live a more satisfying and rewarding life. I offer an integrative approach, drawing on a number of therapeutic techniques that allows me as a therapist to use the most effective method available to address your individual needs. I offer counselling services both online or face to face in safe and comfortable therapeutic space where you can feel free to share your thoughts and feelings.
(02) 6190 1315 View (02) 6190 1315
Photo of Madeleine Davies, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Madeleine Davies
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Turner, ACT 2612
Many of my clients arrive at a point of transition - a pregnancy, a diagnosis, a relationship shift, or a quiet sense that something needs to change. I have a particular passion for supporting women through perinatal experiences, perimenopause, and challenges around sexual health and wellbeing, including pain during sex and low desire. I also work across anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and disordered eating with people of all genders. Whatever brings you here, I'm interested in the whole picture - not just the presenting problem. If you're looking for a space that's honest, grounded, and genuinely collaborative - lets chat!
Many of my clients arrive at a point of transition - a pregnancy, a diagnosis, a relationship shift, or a quiet sense that something needs to change. I have a particular passion for supporting women through perinatal experiences, perimenopause, and challenges around sexual health and wellbeing, including pain during sex and low desire. I also work across anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and disordered eating with people of all genders. Whatever brings you here, I'm interested in the whole picture - not just the presenting problem. If you're looking for a space that's honest, grounded, and genuinely collaborative - lets chat!
View
Photo of Kelly Arundel, Social Worker, AASW
Kelly Arundel
Social Worker, AASW
Belconnen, ACT 2617
As an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in mental health, I provide warm, compassionate, and evidence-based support for teens, adults, and families.
My experience spans community mental health, eating disorder programs, and school counselling settings, supporting adolescents, adults, and families across a range of presentations. I draw from evidence-based approaches including EMDR, CBT, ACT, and FBT, tailoring therapy to each individual’s needs and goals.
As an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in mental health, I provide warm, compassionate, and evidence-based support for teens, adults, and families.
My experience spans community mental health, eating disorder programs, and school counselling settings, supporting adolescents, adults, and families across a range of presentations. I draw from evidence-based approaches including EMDR, CBT, ACT, and FBT, tailoring therapy to each individual’s needs and goals.
(02) 5135 5672 View (02) 5135 5672
Photo of Ashley Thomson - Braddon Counselling, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L1
Braddon Counselling
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L1
1 Endorsed
Turner, ACT 2612
Our great personal struggles often have a terrible feeling of familiarity: we know this anxiety, this depression, this means of coping, this inability to show up, go on, find what feels right. The great lie of these familiar struggles is that they are inevitable and unalterable, and this is the great value of counselling: the ways we struggle, the copes we use, the patterns we know are made new and changeable in the therapeutic encounter. In my practice, I bring a deeply nonjudgmental, empathetic and attentive awareness to your experience, the better to make the path of insight and change safe for you to tread.
Our great personal struggles often have a terrible feeling of familiarity: we know this anxiety, this depression, this means of coping, this inability to show up, go on, find what feels right. The great lie of these familiar struggles is that they are inevitable and unalterable, and this is the great value of counselling: the ways we struggle, the copes we use, the patterns we know are made new and changeable in the therapeutic encounter. In my practice, I bring a deeply nonjudgmental, empathetic and attentive awareness to your experience, the better to make the path of insight and change safe for you to tread.
(02) 5137 7173 View (02) 5137 7173
Photo of Elysha Fordham-Young - Integrated Self Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Integrated Self Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Mawson, ACT 2607
I have extensive experience in working with children, young people and adults who have experienced adversity either within their home, community, educational setting or work place. I have worked with clients with complex trauma histories, dissociative disorders, post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and depression. I have devoted my career over the past 20 years to working with children, adolescents and adults with complex needs or experiencing mental health challenges within the foster care system, rehabilitation services, education department and general public.
I have extensive experience in working with children, young people and adults who have experienced adversity either within their home, community, educational setting or work place. I have worked with clients with complex trauma histories, dissociative disorders, post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and depression. I have devoted my career over the past 20 years to working with children, adolescents and adults with complex needs or experiencing mental health challenges within the foster care system, rehabilitation services, education department and general public.
(02) 5944 3540 View (02) 5944 3540
Photo of Melisa Campisi, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Melisa Campisi
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Canberra, ACT 2601
Offering weekend in person and weekday telehealth appointments, with current availability for new clients. Medicare, DVA and private health rebates available. I understand the courage it takes to reach out for support and I aim to create a warm and compassionate space where people feel safe and comfortable being themselves. I enjoy working collaboratively with people on issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, relationship issues, self-esteem and assertiveness. Life throws all sorts of challenges our way and I look forward to helping you navigate them and realise your own strengths and potential.
Offering weekend in person and weekday telehealth appointments, with current availability for new clients. Medicare, DVA and private health rebates available. I understand the courage it takes to reach out for support and I aim to create a warm and compassionate space where people feel safe and comfortable being themselves. I enjoy working collaboratively with people on issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, relationship issues, self-esteem and assertiveness. Life throws all sorts of challenges our way and I look forward to helping you navigate them and realise your own strengths and potential.
View
Photo of Paul Laurence Dykes - Paul Dykes Counselling Canberra, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Paul Dykes Counselling Canberra
Counsellor, ACA-L1
1 Endorsed
Evatt, ACT 2617
I work with individuals, couples and professionals, offering a grounded, respectful and practical approach to therapy. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, burnt out or disconnected, we’ll work together to understand what’s happening beneath the surface... and find a way forward that feels right for you. I specialise in anxiety, relationship conflict, emotional reactivity, addiction and long-standing patterns that feel hard to shift. I also support clients with anger management and emotional regulation, with a strong focus on building awareness, control and deeper connection.
I work with individuals, couples and professionals, offering a grounded, respectful and practical approach to therapy. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, burnt out or disconnected, we’ll work together to understand what’s happening beneath the surface... and find a way forward that feels right for you. I specialise in anxiety, relationship conflict, emotional reactivity, addiction and long-standing patterns that feel hard to shift. I also support clients with anger management and emotional regulation, with a strong focus on building awareness, control and deeper connection.
(02) 6190 0573 View (02) 6190 0573
Photo of Fiona Xu, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Fiona Xu
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Canberra, ACT 2601
I work with individuals and couples on a wide range of issues including managing emotions, negative patterns, interpersonal concerns, self-esteem and self-growth, and moving from 'surviving to thriving.' I am LGBTQIA+ affirming and work with all relationship types and structures (including ENM). I do not believe people need to be ‘fixed.’ Instead, I believe that any unhelpful coping strategies were developed for a reason—though that reason may no longer exist, and the strategy may no longer be helpful.
I work with individuals and couples on a wide range of issues including managing emotions, negative patterns, interpersonal concerns, self-esteem and self-growth, and moving from 'surviving to thriving.' I am LGBTQIA+ affirming and work with all relationship types and structures (including ENM). I do not believe people need to be ‘fixed.’ Instead, I believe that any unhelpful coping strategies were developed for a reason—though that reason may no longer exist, and the strategy may no longer be helpful.
(02) 5137 7486 View (02) 5137 7486
Photo of Kirsten Close, Psychotherapist, MA
Kirsten Close
Psychotherapist, MA
Online Only
Kirsten is a Play Therapist and Social Worker with a genuine passion for supporting children, young people, and families.
Kirsten offers both play therapy for children and tailored therapeutic support for adolescents, ensuring each young person receives care that feels right for their stage of development.
Kirsten is a Play Therapist and Social Worker with a genuine passion for supporting children, young people, and families.
Kirsten offers both play therapy for children and tailored therapeutic support for adolescents, ensuring each young person receives care that feels right for their stage of development.
View
Photo of Tara Bromham - Canberra Art Therapy Services, Counsellor, MA, AThR
Canberra Art Therapy Services
Counsellor, MA, AThR
1 Endorsed
Weston, ACT 2611
I have extensive experience working with children, youth and families who have experienced trauma, using creative arts therapy and child-led play therapy.
I am an experienced creative art therapist and counsellor who loves working with the expressive and transformative power of artmaking. I believe that art therapy is for everyone, regardless of art making background, skill or ability. In my private practice, I use a trauma-informed approach and am inspired by attachment theory and relational processes. I have found that combining these approaches with expressive art therapy creates a safe, gentle and connective way to experience therapy. This approach is suitable for a wide range of clients of all ages and abilities.
I have extensive experience working with children, youth and families who have experienced trauma, using creative arts therapy and child-led play therapy.
I am an experienced creative art therapist and counsellor who loves working with the expressive and transformative power of artmaking. I believe that art therapy is for everyone, regardless of art making background, skill or ability. In my private practice, I use a trauma-informed approach and am inspired by attachment theory and relational processes. I have found that combining these approaches with expressive art therapy creates a safe, gentle and connective way to experience therapy. This approach is suitable for a wide range of clients of all ages and abilities.
(02) 5950 6361 View (02) 5950 6361
Photo of Chris Dudfield - Pax Counselling, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Pax Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Online Only
This can be: Workplace issues, Interpersonal difficulties, Family or relationship issues and Self-esteem issues.
Chris offers a person-centered care approach that is empathetic, wise and honest. He is known for journeying with clients to explore their concerns, and helping them to find that inner-strength needed in times of challenge. He offers an open minded non-judgmental ear, confidential and helpful counselling approach that will encourage you to find a renewed sense of being. Chris will assist you to bring yourself back to a place that will let you meet life’s challenges with the drive and strength you already possess.
This can be: Workplace issues, Interpersonal difficulties, Family or relationship issues and Self-esteem issues.
Chris offers a person-centered care approach that is empathetic, wise and honest. He is known for journeying with clients to explore their concerns, and helping them to find that inner-strength needed in times of challenge. He offers an open minded non-judgmental ear, confidential and helpful counselling approach that will encourage you to find a renewed sense of being. Chris will assist you to bring yourself back to a place that will let you meet life’s challenges with the drive and strength you already possess.
(02) 5926 2013 View (02) 5926 2013

See more therapy options for Australian Capital Territory

FAQ - About Family Therapy
What issues does family therapy help with?
Family therapy can help families navigate the complex dynamics of family life, including communication challenges and recurring conflict between family members. A therapist can help family members identify dysfunctional patterns in communication and develop healthier ways of relating. Family therapy may also be helpful during major life transitions or stressful events that affect the family system, such as grief, divorce, trauma, relocation, or a serious illness. In some cases, family therapy can support families coping with specific mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, alcohol or substance use disorders, and eating disorders. In these situations, therapy can provide education and support to family members, as well as to the individual with the mental health diagnosis.

How do I know if my family needs counselling?
Family therapy may be helpful if a family consistently struggles with conflict or communication in a way that affects daily life or relationships. It can also be beneficial when someone in the family is experiencing significant emotional or behavioural changes, such as a family member becoming aggressive, withdrawing, or struggling to cope after a traumatic event. Additionally, some concerns, such as addiction or eating disorders, may be especially important to address in the context of the family unit.

Who attends family counselling sessions?
Family counselling sessions are often attended by members of the immediate family, such as parents, caregivers, children, or siblings. However, other family members may attend when appropriate, including grandparents, stepparents, stepsiblings, or co-parents. Who attends may depend on the family’s needs, the therapist’s recommendations, and the goals of treatment.

Can family therapy be done online?
Family therapy can often be done online. Virtual sessions may be especially convenient when family members live in different locations, have busy schedules, or live in an area where family therapists are less accessible. However, online therapy may not be the best fit for every family. In-person care may be more appropriate when there are safety concerns, severe conflict, limited privacy at home, or when young children have difficulty engaging through a screen.

What therapeutic approaches are used in family counselling?
Family therapy can take different forms, including systemic family therapy (exploring how individual actions affect the family), structural family therapy (uncovering the structure and relationship dynamics of the family unit), and attachment-based family therapy (focusing on how bonds between family members shape relationships). Family therapy may also include psychoeducation, which helps family members learn more about a mental health condition and how to respond to it more effectively.

How much does family therapy cost and is it covered by insurance?
Family therapy sessions, which typically last about an hour, often range from around AUD $150 to $250 or more, depending on factors such as location, therapist experience, session length, and practice setting. Family therapy often costs more than individual therapy because it involves multiple participants and more complex treatment planning. In Australia, family therapy is often paid out of pocket, although some private health insurance policies may provide partial rebates, depending on the provider type and policy. Medicare rebates may be available in limited circumstances when a person has a Mental Health Treatment Plan established by their GP and is referred to an eligible mental health professional. However, these rebates only apply when services are provided by Medicare-eligible providers and are often subject to a limited number of sessions.