Substance Use Counselling in Alexandria, NSW

Photo of Dr Neil Lucas, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Dr Neil Lucas
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Alexandria, NSW 2015
I use evidence-based interventions to address a variety of mental health and psychosocial concerns, including: LGBTQIA+ identity issues, anxiety and mood disorders, ADHD management strategies, alcohol and substance use challenges, and workplace burnout.
My experience covers various settings, including community mental health care, alcohol and substance counselling, university counselling services, and anxiety group therapy programs. Before becoming a psychologist and completing a PhD in Clinical Psychology, I spent nearly 20 years in corporate and professional services marketing and business development.
I use evidence-based interventions to address a variety of mental health and psychosocial concerns, including: LGBTQIA+ identity issues, anxiety and mood disorders, ADHD management strategies, alcohol and substance use challenges, and workplace burnout.
My experience covers various settings, including community mental health care, alcohol and substance counselling, university counselling services, and anxiety group therapy programs. Before becoming a psychologist and completing a PhD in Clinical Psychology, I spent nearly 20 years in corporate and professional services marketing and business development.
(02) 8000 1692 View (02) 8000 1692
Photo of Tal Schlosser - MyLife Psychologists, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
MyLife Psychologists
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Alexandria, NSW 2015
Our team of highly skilled Clinical Psychologists offer support across a range of concerns, including anxiety and depression (including perinatal), stress and burnout, eating disorders, alcohol and substance use, neurodiversity (ASD and ADHD), relationship issues, grief and loss, insomnia, as well as LGBTQIA+ related issues.
Our experienced Clinical Psychologists help adults and adolescents (16+) in overcoming mental health challenges. We know life can be tough, and everyone deserves compassionate and professional guidance. At MyLife Psychologists, we're dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. We take the time to understand your unique needs and preferences, ensuring you’re matched with the most appropriate clinician who can provide tailored, compassionate care. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of the next steps to take, we're here to help. It’s important to us that you feel heard and understood – and that you’re not alone.
Our team of highly skilled Clinical Psychologists offer support across a range of concerns, including anxiety and depression (including perinatal), stress and burnout, eating disorders, alcohol and substance use, neurodiversity (ASD and ADHD), relationship issues, grief and loss, insomnia, as well as LGBTQIA+ related issues.
Our experienced Clinical Psychologists help adults and adolescents (16+) in overcoming mental health challenges. We know life can be tough, and everyone deserves compassionate and professional guidance. At MyLife Psychologists, we're dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. We take the time to understand your unique needs and preferences, ensuring you’re matched with the most appropriate clinician who can provide tailored, compassionate care. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of the next steps to take, we're here to help. It’s important to us that you feel heard and understood – and that you’re not alone.
(02) 9100 0547 View (02) 9100 0547
Photo of Simon van der Stap, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Simon van der Stap
Psychotherapist, PACFA
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I offer a warm, genuine, Person-Centred approach and have extensive clinical experience with Substance Use Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Workplace Bullying, LBGTQI+ issues, Life-Goals, Assertiveness Training and sudden, Life-Changing Events.
My name is Simon van der Stap and at Creative State Counselling and Psychotherapy, I help people create the changes they want for their lives. If you’re reading this, you’ve probably decided it’s time to take real action to improve your life in a more permanent way. Can I help? YES! Does Counselling and Psychotherapy really work? Also, YES! Whether you struggle with Alcohol or Other Drugs, clinical disorders such as anxiety or depression, historical stuff such as trauma, self-defeating habits that keep you stuck, a lack of direction or assertiveness, or you simply want to build a better life, you've come to the right place!
I offer a warm, genuine, Person-Centred approach and have extensive clinical experience with Substance Use Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Workplace Bullying, LBGTQI+ issues, Life-Goals, Assertiveness Training and sudden, Life-Changing Events.
My name is Simon van der Stap and at Creative State Counselling and Psychotherapy, I help people create the changes they want for their lives. If you’re reading this, you’ve probably decided it’s time to take real action to improve your life in a more permanent way. Can I help? YES! Does Counselling and Psychotherapy really work? Also, YES! Whether you struggle with Alcohol or Other Drugs, clinical disorders such as anxiety or depression, historical stuff such as trauma, self-defeating habits that keep you stuck, a lack of direction or assertiveness, or you simply want to build a better life, you've come to the right place!
(02) 9159 3750 View (02) 9159 3750
Photo of Ilona Gaudin, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Ilona Gaudin
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, NSW 2015
“How awesome to find you taking a brave leap and considering me to be your psychologist. I’m looking forward to meeting you, and getting to be your partner in your therapeutic journey. There is so much power in a warm, secure, non-judgmental, therapeutic relationship to promote true healing and meaningful change. I believe whole-heartedly in providing that kind of space and energy for you at every session. Over my life I have been working hard to gain a wealth of experience and knowledge in counselling in a wide range of modalities. I feel confident that I can help you on your pathway to the best version of yourself."
“How awesome to find you taking a brave leap and considering me to be your psychologist. I’m looking forward to meeting you, and getting to be your partner in your therapeutic journey. There is so much power in a warm, secure, non-judgmental, therapeutic relationship to promote true healing and meaningful change. I believe whole-heartedly in providing that kind of space and energy for you at every session. Over my life I have been working hard to gain a wealth of experience and knowledge in counselling in a wide range of modalities. I feel confident that I can help you on your pathway to the best version of yourself."
1300 045 646 View 1300 045 646
Photo of Tom Xia, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Tom Xia
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Alexandria, NSW 2015
“The best therapeutic experience comes from combining cutting-edge psychology with a great trusting partnership. I find it deeply meaningful to empower you, and celebrate your success as you become the best version of yourself. In the therapy room I create a space where you can open up to your vulnerabilities without fear of judgement, and my style is collaborative, relaxed and compassionate. Over my career, I’ve sought out and honed a range of therapeutic skills so that I can match my offering to what best suits you. My hope is pass on the blueprint to understanding, coping and overcoming challenges both now and in the future"
“The best therapeutic experience comes from combining cutting-edge psychology with a great trusting partnership. I find it deeply meaningful to empower you, and celebrate your success as you become the best version of yourself. In the therapy room I create a space where you can open up to your vulnerabilities without fear of judgement, and my style is collaborative, relaxed and compassionate. Over my career, I’ve sought out and honed a range of therapeutic skills so that I can match my offering to what best suits you. My hope is pass on the blueprint to understanding, coping and overcoming challenges both now and in the future"
(02) 9100 0920 View (02) 9100 0920
Photo of Lauren Cross, Psychologist, MAPS
Lauren Cross
Psychologist, MAPS
Alexandria, NSW 2015
“So much meaning and purpose in my life, comes from helping people like yourself navigate difficult times, and empowering you to live a life with vitality. It is a precious thing to be trusted with the stories of my clients and I believe it’s so important to provide a safe, nurturing therapeutic space to empower you to create the life you deserve When you work with me, we are in this together. You will come to know me as an open-minded, approachable human with a healthy sense of humour”
“So much meaning and purpose in my life, comes from helping people like yourself navigate difficult times, and empowering you to live a life with vitality. It is a precious thing to be trusted with the stories of my clients and I believe it’s so important to provide a safe, nurturing therapeutic space to empower you to create the life you deserve When you work with me, we are in this together. You will come to know me as an open-minded, approachable human with a healthy sense of humour”
(02) 9158 6351 View (02) 9158 6351
Photo of Stephen Jon Ward - makingsensecounselling.com, Counsellor, PACFA
makingsensecounselling.com
Counsellor, PACFA
Serves Area
Across all ages growth and learning never stops as we respond to the inevitability of life changes. My expertise as a mental health coach and a counsellor lies in collaborating with your strengths, courage and willingness to solve your problems, heal your pain and make you feel better about yourself. I am passionate about empowering wellbeing, enhancing self-belief and building resilience. I am best able to help by connecting with you on a meaningful level to generate clarity to your personal challenges and to facilitate the opening up of possibilities for you now, and for your future.
Across all ages growth and learning never stops as we respond to the inevitability of life changes. My expertise as a mental health coach and a counsellor lies in collaborating with your strengths, courage and willingness to solve your problems, heal your pain and make you feel better about yourself. I am passionate about empowering wellbeing, enhancing self-belief and building resilience. I am best able to help by connecting with you on a meaningful level to generate clarity to your personal challenges and to facilitate the opening up of possibilities for you now, and for your future.
(02) 8503 4107 View (02) 8503 4107
Photo of Alexandra Guhde, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Alexandra Guhde
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Going to therapy takes guts. Often, it takes a person, or a couple, years to move from contemplating therapy to booking a first appointment. It’s not an easy process. But, what you get out of therapy is directly related to what you put into it. And I will match your dedication with mine. The process of healing and recovery is also one of becoming and realising. Therapy is self-development at its most satisfying. Yes, it takes courage, effort, and, often, a leap of faith. But, if you are ready to give yourself the gift of therapy, I am here to take that leap with you.
Going to therapy takes guts. Often, it takes a person, or a couple, years to move from contemplating therapy to booking a first appointment. It’s not an easy process. But, what you get out of therapy is directly related to what you put into it. And I will match your dedication with mine. The process of healing and recovery is also one of becoming and realising. Therapy is self-development at its most satisfying. Yes, it takes courage, effort, and, often, a leap of faith. But, if you are ready to give yourself the gift of therapy, I am here to take that leap with you.
(02) 5300 2824 View (02) 5300 2824
Photo of Shiraze Bulsara - The Sydney Psychology Practice, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
The Sydney Psychology Practice
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
The Sydney Psychology Practice is focused on supporting clients to make sustainable change. Our team has extensive experience with a diverse range of clients and concerns, and using treatments with demonstrated research efficacy.
The Sydney Psychology Practice is focused on supporting clients to make sustainable change. Our team has extensive experience with a diverse range of clients and concerns, and using treatments with demonstrated research efficacy.
(02) 9100 0631 View (02) 9100 0631
Photo of Liela Vergara, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Liela Vergara
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I aim to provide a therapeutic space where clients can explore the possibility of change, even during difficult times. We collaboratively explore experiences, develop coping strategies, and build resilience. Therapy aims to support clients in developing strengths, learning new skills, and working towards greater balance by identifying goals, enhancing self-awareness, and initiating change. I value a strong therapeutic relationship, built on trust, respect, and mutual understanding. I assess and provide therapy for conditions such as depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, phobias, trauma & PTSD. I also work with couples.
I aim to provide a therapeutic space where clients can explore the possibility of change, even during difficult times. We collaboratively explore experiences, develop coping strategies, and build resilience. Therapy aims to support clients in developing strengths, learning new skills, and working towards greater balance by identifying goals, enhancing self-awareness, and initiating change. I value a strong therapeutic relationship, built on trust, respect, and mutual understanding. I assess and provide therapy for conditions such as depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, phobias, trauma & PTSD. I also work with couples.
0427 498 242 View 0427 498 242
Photo of Sagar Aadarsh, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Sagar Aadarsh
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Heya, I’m Sagar! I understand how nerve-wracking it can be to walk into a psychologist’s office. That’s why I aim to be warm, empathetic and approachable, to build a genuine relationship as the foundation of our therapeutic process. I work across the lifespan, and I love helping clients navigate those big life changes— adolescence into adulthood; career into retirement; or any of those big, overwhelming events that seem to just come with life. My approach is to give clients insight into their thoughts & emotions, warmth and space to help process and heal, then collaboratively create tools and strategies to lay problems to rest.
Heya, I’m Sagar! I understand how nerve-wracking it can be to walk into a psychologist’s office. That’s why I aim to be warm, empathetic and approachable, to build a genuine relationship as the foundation of our therapeutic process. I work across the lifespan, and I love helping clients navigate those big life changes— adolescence into adulthood; career into retirement; or any of those big, overwhelming events that seem to just come with life. My approach is to give clients insight into their thoughts & emotions, warmth and space to help process and heal, then collaboratively create tools and strategies to lay problems to rest.
(08) 7008 7438 View (08) 7008 7438
Raelene Hartman
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Raelene is a Clinical Psychologist with over 28 years of experience in helping adults with a wide range of psychological presentations including trauma, anxiety and mood disorders, emotional dysregulation, adjustment issues, alcohol and drug addiction, relationship challenges, workplace stress/burnout and personality disorders. She has worked in a range of areas including community mental health, private practice and organisational settings.
Raelene is a Clinical Psychologist with over 28 years of experience in helping adults with a wide range of psychological presentations including trauma, anxiety and mood disorders, emotional dysregulation, adjustment issues, alcohol and drug addiction, relationship challenges, workplace stress/burnout and personality disorders. She has worked in a range of areas including community mental health, private practice and organisational settings.
(02) 9100 0905 View (02) 9100 0905
Photo of Jase Dimos, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Jase Dimos
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Finding the right fit with a psychologist is not only important, but sometimes daunting. My name is Jase, and I opened Psychology in Balance with the vision of creating a space where clients can be well understood and motivated to become the best version of themselves - for themselves. I work with individuals and couples on a range of concerns, including anxiety, complex trauma, ADHD, relationship issues, emotional burnout, acute stress, attachment injuries, emotion regulation difficulties, and a lack of meaning or purpose. My practice is LGBTQIA+ informed and welcoming to all.
Finding the right fit with a psychologist is not only important, but sometimes daunting. My name is Jase, and I opened Psychology in Balance with the vision of creating a space where clients can be well understood and motivated to become the best version of themselves - for themselves. I work with individuals and couples on a range of concerns, including anxiety, complex trauma, ADHD, relationship issues, emotional burnout, acute stress, attachment injuries, emotion regulation difficulties, and a lack of meaning or purpose. My practice is LGBTQIA+ informed and welcoming to all.
0468 375 150 View 0468 375 150
Photo of Patrick Eid, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Patrick Eid
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Patrick. I'm a clinical psychologist passionate about offering thoughtful, affirming care for people who are navigating life with depth, insight, and complexity. As a Queer person from a culturally diverse background, I know how hard it can be to find a therapist who truly understands identity, intersectionality, and the broader systems we move through. My practice is built on the belief that mental health support should feel safe, empowering, and free from judgment. I enjoy working with people who are self-reflective, curious, and ready to invest in their growth.
Hi, I'm Patrick. I'm a clinical psychologist passionate about offering thoughtful, affirming care for people who are navigating life with depth, insight, and complexity. As a Queer person from a culturally diverse background, I know how hard it can be to find a therapist who truly understands identity, intersectionality, and the broader systems we move through. My practice is built on the belief that mental health support should feel safe, empowering, and free from judgment. I enjoy working with people who are self-reflective, curious, and ready to invest in their growth.
(02) 8322 9090 View (02) 8322 9090
Photo of Alex Quirk, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Alex Quirk
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
Even in our deepest suffering, there is meaning to be found. When we look within, towards those aspects of ourselves and our experiences that we find most difficult, we begin to know ourselves more deeply, we broaden our capacities to bear emotional pain, and from there we are able create meaningful changes in our lives.
Even in our deepest suffering, there is meaning to be found. When we look within, towards those aspects of ourselves and our experiences that we find most difficult, we begin to know ourselves more deeply, we broaden our capacities to bear emotional pain, and from there we are able create meaningful changes in our lives.
0455 857 958 View 0455 857 958
Photo of Nell Campbell, Counsellor, PACFA
Nell Campbell
Counsellor, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Take a moment to check in with yourself and your body right now. What emerges? No matter what it is, know that you do not have to explore this alone. As human beings we are naturally self-protecting. Often this means that we attempt to bypass emotional discomfort in an effort to protect ourselves from pain. This avoidance tends to mean our suffering lingers and manifests in ways we have little control over such as; anxiety, depression, destructive relationships, unhealthy ways to cope and physical symptoms. I am here to help you safely feel into yourself, and release the parts that no longer serve you.
Take a moment to check in with yourself and your body right now. What emerges? No matter what it is, know that you do not have to explore this alone. As human beings we are naturally self-protecting. Often this means that we attempt to bypass emotional discomfort in an effort to protect ourselves from pain. This avoidance tends to mean our suffering lingers and manifests in ways we have little control over such as; anxiety, depression, destructive relationships, unhealthy ways to cope and physical symptoms. I am here to help you safely feel into yourself, and release the parts that no longer serve you.
(02) 8599 2275 View (02) 8599 2275
Photo of Elizabeth Chikako Crouch, Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Elizabeth Chikako Crouch
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Serves Area
Therapy can be a big step and decision and it is important that your therapist is someone you feel safe and supported by, that you are respected and so are your strengths and capacities. I work in a holistic and supportive way working with clients to heal, and achieve the outcomes that they choose. I have worked for a number of years with survivors of childhood sexual assault, adult sexual assault, intimate partner and other violence and also work with those who use violence.
Therapy can be a big step and decision and it is important that your therapist is someone you feel safe and supported by, that you are respected and so are your strengths and capacities. I work in a holistic and supportive way working with clients to heal, and achieve the outcomes that they choose. I have worked for a number of years with survivors of childhood sexual assault, adult sexual assault, intimate partner and other violence and also work with those who use violence.
(02) 8294 6092 View (02) 8294 6092
Photo of Ash Rehn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSc, AMHSW
Ash Rehn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSc, AMHSW
Serves Area
Medicare provider, counsellor and psychotherapist with over 20 years experience in therapy and mental health care. Clients include LGBTQ+ people, men struggling with pornography use, those exploring sexuality and others recovering from religious abuse, coercive control, domestic violence and addiction. I'm a relationship specialist. Our sessions will give you a sounding board, a witness to your trauma, tools and professional guidance. I will listen, guide you with focussed psychological strategies and encourage you to trust yourself. Through open dialogue, you can improve the relationship you have with yourself and others.
Medicare provider, counsellor and psychotherapist with over 20 years experience in therapy and mental health care. Clients include LGBTQ+ people, men struggling with pornography use, those exploring sexuality and others recovering from religious abuse, coercive control, domestic violence and addiction. I'm a relationship specialist. Our sessions will give you a sounding board, a witness to your trauma, tools and professional guidance. I will listen, guide you with focussed psychological strategies and encourage you to trust yourself. Through open dialogue, you can improve the relationship you have with yourself and others.
(02) 9100 0518 View (02) 9100 0518
Photo of Julie Chapman - Julie Chapman Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Julie Chapman Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I love my work. I have been a practicing Psychologist for the last 13 years, working in addictions and trauma in public health. I have worked with people from a variety of backgrounds, which has given me a thorough understanding of the complexity of problems that people experience. My skill lies in helping people understand the issues they bring to therapy, so that we can work together on evidence based solutions to solve them. I also like to think that I bring a friendly and personable approach to this process, making therapy a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
I love my work. I have been a practicing Psychologist for the last 13 years, working in addictions and trauma in public health. I have worked with people from a variety of backgrounds, which has given me a thorough understanding of the complexity of problems that people experience. My skill lies in helping people understand the issues they bring to therapy, so that we can work together on evidence based solutions to solve them. I also like to think that I bring a friendly and personable approach to this process, making therapy a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
(02) 9160 3209 View (02) 9160 3209

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Marijn Cugati, Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA Prov
Marijn Cugati
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA Prov
North Sydney, NSW 2060
I work with a wide range of presentations, including depression, anxiety (generalised, social, phobias, panic), substance use, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and grief, anger, stress and self-esteem concerns.
Hello, I'm Marijn, Provisional Psychologist in North Sydney with a strong passion for my work. My approach is friendly, respectful, open, and non-judgemental. I have a strong and genuine interest in people and their life stories. I like to work collaboratively, working through what is going on for you, desired outcomes, and what can be done to achieve a required change. While working through this, I encourage a broad perspective, addressing emotional, physical, intellectual, social, occupational, and spiritual aspects which impact psychological wellbeing.
I work with a wide range of presentations, including depression, anxiety (generalised, social, phobias, panic), substance use, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and grief, anger, stress and self-esteem concerns.
Hello, I'm Marijn, Provisional Psychologist in North Sydney with a strong passion for my work. My approach is friendly, respectful, open, and non-judgemental. I have a strong and genuine interest in people and their life stories. I like to work collaboratively, working through what is going on for you, desired outcomes, and what can be done to achieve a required change. While working through this, I encourage a broad perspective, addressing emotional, physical, intellectual, social, occupational, and spiritual aspects which impact psychological wellbeing.
(02) 9100 0717 View (02) 9100 0717
Substance Use Counsellors

How do substance and drug recovery or rehabilitation programs work?

In inpatient programs, individuals live in a facility with other clients in recovery; in outpatient programs, individuals reside at home. These facilities are staffed with healthcare professionals including physicians, nurses, psychologists, counsellors, and psychotherapists. Staff often also includes people who have recovered themselves, serving as mentors and guides. These programs may use abstinence, harm reduction, detoxification, psychotherapy, and other methods.

How do 12-step programs combined with psychotherapy work?

Members of 12-step programs help each other reach abstinence and work to maintain it. These programs promote complete change in the individual’s emotional, mental, physical, and even spiritual perspectives. Some programs require that new members attend 90 meetings in 90 days. Many people do attend these programs in conjunction with their work in psychotherapy; the combination of therapy along with 12-step can be extremely effective.

How does harm reduction combined with psychotherapy work?

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, harm reduction prevents death, injury, disease, overdose, and substance misuse. People who choose harm reduction for substance use reduce the amount of drugs they consume. It is not abstinence-based like a 12-step program, but combining harm reduction with psychotherapy proves to be effective for many people.

Are there specific medications for substance and drug use?

There are medications approved to treat substance use disorder—such as buprenorphine, methadone, naltrexone, and acamprosate. These medications do help people cope with substance use as well as avoid the problem of relapse. Naltrexone can help reduce cravings, methadone is an opioid medication used to treat severe pain, and acamprosate may help ease symptoms like poor sleep and anxious feelings.