Body Image Psychologists and Therapists in Ashfield, NSW

Photo of Kylie Andersen, Counsellor, MC, PACFA
Kylie Andersen
Counsellor, MC, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Ashfield, NSW 2131
Maybe you struggle with your body image, or you’re caught in a cycle with food that leaves you feeling out of control.
I work with sensitive, thoughtful adults who feel stuck: in their relationship with food or their body, in relationships with others, in work, or in life more broadly. My clients often know something needs to change, but haven't been able to get there through willpower or self-help alone. We slow things down and get curious about what's going on underneath.
Maybe you struggle with your body image, or you’re caught in a cycle with food that leaves you feeling out of control.
I work with sensitive, thoughtful adults who feel stuck: in their relationship with food or their body, in relationships with others, in work, or in life more broadly. My clients often know something needs to change, but haven't been able to get there through willpower or self-help alone. We slow things down and get curious about what's going on underneath.
(02) 9158 6206 View (02) 9158 6206
Photo of John Hristoforidis, Social Worker, AMHSW
John Hristoforidis
Social Worker, AMHSW
Ashfield, NSW 2131
Clients present to therapy for a variety of reasons. I provide a safe, non-judgemental space that meets where the client is at, and gently explores what's happening in their life. Together we can work towards goals that are alligned with their hopes, aspirations, desires or needs; to improve connection with the self, interpersonal relationships and the interplay with their surrounding social world.
Clients present to therapy for a variety of reasons. I provide a safe, non-judgemental space that meets where the client is at, and gently explores what's happening in their life. Together we can work towards goals that are alligned with their hopes, aspirations, desires or needs; to improve connection with the self, interpersonal relationships and the interplay with their surrounding social world.
(02) 9100 0965 View (02) 9100 0965
Photo of Julia Ellis, Counsellor, PACFA
Julia Ellis
Counsellor, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello, I'm Julia. I approach counselling as a place for genuine connection and meaning making. This means I work with you to explore how you make sense of your life and experiences. My style of therapy is conversational - supporting you to gain a greater sense of your preferences, hopes and befriend all parts of yourself. I have qualifications in anti-oppressive and non-pathologising approaches. I am deeply informed by social justice and critical theory. I welcome all bodies, genders and identities, and I work to problematise the privileges I hold as a cis, able-bodied woman on stolen land.
Hello, I'm Julia. I approach counselling as a place for genuine connection and meaning making. This means I work with you to explore how you make sense of your life and experiences. My style of therapy is conversational - supporting you to gain a greater sense of your preferences, hopes and befriend all parts of yourself. I have qualifications in anti-oppressive and non-pathologising approaches. I am deeply informed by social justice and critical theory. I welcome all bodies, genders and identities, and I work to problematise the privileges I hold as a cis, able-bodied woman on stolen land.
(02) 9100 0093 View (02) 9100 0093
Photo of Lauren O'Donoghue, Psychotherapist, ACA-L1
Lauren O'Donoghue
Psychotherapist, ACA-L1
Serves Area
I support Queer, Neurodivergent, Chronically ill & Disabled folk, or anyone who may have felt misunderstood in traditional/allistic clinical settings. I integrate my lived experience with professional expertise to support clients navigating AuDHD, burnout, life transitions, relationship or workplace challenges, anxiety, substance use concerns etc. I am honoured to walk alongside my clients helping people to heal hurt, find their spark, cope with suffering, and come home to themselves. My work is grounded in social justice principals, and guided by my values of authenticity, integrity, humour, agency, and joy.
I support Queer, Neurodivergent, Chronically ill & Disabled folk, or anyone who may have felt misunderstood in traditional/allistic clinical settings. I integrate my lived experience with professional expertise to support clients navigating AuDHD, burnout, life transitions, relationship or workplace challenges, anxiety, substance use concerns etc. I am honoured to walk alongside my clients helping people to heal hurt, find their spark, cope with suffering, and come home to themselves. My work is grounded in social justice principals, and guided by my values of authenticity, integrity, humour, agency, and joy.
0403 912 902 View 0403 912 902
Photo of Emelia Gillian Armstrong-Crews - Hypnotherapy with Emelia
Hypnotherapy with Emelia
Verified Verified
Online Only
All sessions online- through Zoom. Taking clients from UK, Europe, Australia, New Zealand Overcome emotional pain- Eating struggles, fears and unhelpful habits Build confidence, resilience and ease anxiety.
All sessions online- through Zoom. Taking clients from UK, Europe, Australia, New Zealand Overcome emotional pain- Eating struggles, fears and unhelpful habits Build confidence, resilience and ease anxiety.
(02) 8261 0267 View (02) 8261 0267
Photo of Kate Mackie, Social Worker, AMHSW
Kate Mackie
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
As humans, we will all go through challenging times and need support. Therapeutically, I work to assist the brain and body cope with trauma, challenging emotions and life experiences. I aim to sensitively attune to each person and look to work together to address your concerns. I humanise lived experiences and see the relevance of how our social and cultural context can shape our mood, mental health and recovery. I have special interest and experience working with people who have had a difficult childhood and those affected by trauma including sexual, physical, emotional, psychological & domestic abuse.
As humans, we will all go through challenging times and need support. Therapeutically, I work to assist the brain and body cope with trauma, challenging emotions and life experiences. I aim to sensitively attune to each person and look to work together to address your concerns. I humanise lived experiences and see the relevance of how our social and cultural context can shape our mood, mental health and recovery. I have special interest and experience working with people who have had a difficult childhood and those affected by trauma including sexual, physical, emotional, psychological & domestic abuse.
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Photo of Alex Dunwoodie, Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
Alex Dunwoodie
Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Psychotherapist and Counsellor committed to create a safe and nurturing space for clients to explore their strengths, develop coping strategies, and enhance their self-awareness. I provide support for a wide range of mental health concerns including trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, parenting and personal growth. I bring a holistic lense to therapy as a level 1 IFS practitioner with specialisation in trauma informed and Neuro affirming practices.
I am a Psychotherapist and Counsellor committed to create a safe and nurturing space for clients to explore their strengths, develop coping strategies, and enhance their self-awareness. I provide support for a wide range of mental health concerns including trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, parenting and personal growth. I bring a holistic lense to therapy as a level 1 IFS practitioner with specialisation in trauma informed and Neuro affirming practices.
(02) 8000 0822 View (02) 8000 0822
Photo of Shadi Gray, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Shadi Gray
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
A Psychologist Who Leads with Authenticity and Compassion. I'm a dedicated Sydney-based psychologist known for my radical authenticity and deep commitment to helping individuals and couples navigate mental health and relationship challenges. I creates a genuine, supportive space where real change happens embracing discomfort as a catalyst for growth. With a compassionate yet direct approach, I help clients break through emotional barriers, uncover new perspectives, and develop lasting strategies for well-being.
A Psychologist Who Leads with Authenticity and Compassion. I'm a dedicated Sydney-based psychologist known for my radical authenticity and deep commitment to helping individuals and couples navigate mental health and relationship challenges. I creates a genuine, supportive space where real change happens embracing discomfort as a catalyst for growth. With a compassionate yet direct approach, I help clients break through emotional barriers, uncover new perspectives, and develop lasting strategies for well-being.
(02) 8000 0767 View (02) 8000 0767
Photo of Sonia Scali, Counsellor, PACFA
Sonia Scali
Counsellor, PACFA
Serves Area
Welcome, I’m Sonia, a warm, compassionate and open-minded counsellor. My approach is trauma-informed, collaborative and strength-based, listening and tailoring my approach around your needs. My aim is to help you manage life's challenges with self-compassion and self-kindness. I work with both adults and adolescents, specialising in prolonged trauma, PTSD and C-PTSD, domestic and family violence, anxiety, depression, challenges with emotional regulation, difficult life transitions and family dynamics. Supporting clients with communication and interpersonal relationships is a special interest of mine.
Welcome, I’m Sonia, a warm, compassionate and open-minded counsellor. My approach is trauma-informed, collaborative and strength-based, listening and tailoring my approach around your needs. My aim is to help you manage life's challenges with self-compassion and self-kindness. I work with both adults and adolescents, specialising in prolonged trauma, PTSD and C-PTSD, domestic and family violence, anxiety, depression, challenges with emotional regulation, difficult life transitions and family dynamics. Supporting clients with communication and interpersonal relationships is a special interest of mine.
(02) 9100 0424 View (02) 9100 0424
Photo of Rebecca Harrison, Social Worker, AMHSW
Rebecca Harrison
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
I offer a warm, collaborative, and trauma-informed approach, working with adolescents, adults and couples. I help those experiencing anxiety, eating disorders, conflict, stress, emotional overwhelm and the impacts of past experiences, to build a more compassionate relationship with yourself, strengthen relationships with others, towards a more connected, balanced and fulfilling life.
I offer a warm, collaborative, and trauma-informed approach, working with adolescents, adults and couples. I help those experiencing anxiety, eating disorders, conflict, stress, emotional overwhelm and the impacts of past experiences, to build a more compassionate relationship with yourself, strengthen relationships with others, towards a more connected, balanced and fulfilling life.
(02) 9909 6136 View (02) 9909 6136
Photo of Sam Felicity Baran - Sam Baran (Inner Orbit Therapy), Psychotherapist, PACFA
Sam Baran (Inner Orbit Therapy)
Psychotherapist, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hey! I’m Sam(they/them), a queer, non-binary therapist supporting people wanting to understand themselves better or navigate life changes, anxiety, or low mood. I know first hand how empowering it can be to discover and express your authentic self in your daily life and relationships. We’ll puzzle out the unique bits that sit at your core, build community and connection, and work to find a better way forward. As an LGBTQIA+ individual, I get that not everyone sees the world the same way and welcome queer, transgender, neurodivergent (ADHD, autism, etc.) and ethical non-monogamous/poly folk to a space where you can be yourself.
Hey! I’m Sam(they/them), a queer, non-binary therapist supporting people wanting to understand themselves better or navigate life changes, anxiety, or low mood. I know first hand how empowering it can be to discover and express your authentic self in your daily life and relationships. We’ll puzzle out the unique bits that sit at your core, build community and connection, and work to find a better way forward. As an LGBTQIA+ individual, I get that not everyone sees the world the same way and welcome queer, transgender, neurodivergent (ADHD, autism, etc.) and ethical non-monogamous/poly folk to a space where you can be yourself.
(02) 8000 1501 View (02) 8000 1501
Photo of Justine Pash, Counsellor, PACFA
Justine Pash
Counsellor, PACFA
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Life's for sure a roller coaster. Along with the ups, there will naturally be downs - illness, pain, worry, conflict, transitions and loss. Sometimes we hang on for the ride and know who will be in the seat beside us; at other times, we can feel pummelled, adrift or alone in our experience. Being heard, seen and validated can begin a process of deep understanding and change. I am a degree-qualified Therapist and eating disorder clinician who feels passionate about providing ethical, evidence-based support to all clients, no matter their concern. You might like to see me in my CBD or Petersham rooms.
Life's for sure a roller coaster. Along with the ups, there will naturally be downs - illness, pain, worry, conflict, transitions and loss. Sometimes we hang on for the ride and know who will be in the seat beside us; at other times, we can feel pummelled, adrift or alone in our experience. Being heard, seen and validated can begin a process of deep understanding and change. I am a degree-qualified Therapist and eating disorder clinician who feels passionate about providing ethical, evidence-based support to all clients, no matter their concern. You might like to see me in my CBD or Petersham rooms.
(02) 9100 0552 View (02) 9100 0552

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr Salena Bhanji, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Salena Bhanji
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Macquarie Park, NSW 2113
She also has extensive expertise in eating disorders and body image concerns.
Dr Salena has been professionally trained to provide multiple therapies including: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT and CBT-E), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Parts Work Therapies, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), Maudsley Family Based Therapy (FBT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing (EMDR).
She also has extensive expertise in eating disorders and body image concerns.
Dr Salena has been professionally trained to provide multiple therapies including: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT and CBT-E), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Parts Work Therapies, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), Maudsley Family Based Therapy (FBT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing (EMDR).
(02) 8503 4157 View (02) 8503 4157
Photo of Louise Adams, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Louise Adams
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Kirribilli, NSW 2061
I work with adults navigating eating disorders, body image issues, burnout, trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and Autism.
I have extensive expertise across a range of psychological concerns. My therapeutic approach is collaborative, compassionate, and evidence-based, empowering clients to become their own therapist. I understand the complexities of being human, adapting my approach to consider trauma, neurodivergence, health challenges, stigma, discrimination and exclusion.
I work with adults navigating eating disorders, body image issues, burnout, trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and Autism.
I have extensive expertise across a range of psychological concerns. My therapeutic approach is collaborative, compassionate, and evidence-based, empowering clients to become their own therapist. I understand the complexities of being human, adapting my approach to consider trauma, neurodivergence, health challenges, stigma, discrimination and exclusion.
(02) 9000 1212 View (02) 9000 1212
Photo of Patrick McGrath, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Patrick McGrath
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I am a clinical psychologist who works across a variety of presentations including anxiety and mood disorders. I hope to bring a warm, empathic and authentic approach to the issues that people bring to therapy. I recognise the investment that people make when they share their difficulties with someone and commit to therapy, and work to honour that commitment by delivering evidence based treatments, that are tailored to a persons needs. I’ve benefitted greatly from the experience of working across a range of inpatient and outpatient hospital settings.
I am a clinical psychologist who works across a variety of presentations including anxiety and mood disorders. I hope to bring a warm, empathic and authentic approach to the issues that people bring to therapy. I recognise the investment that people make when they share their difficulties with someone and commit to therapy, and work to honour that commitment by delivering evidence based treatments, that are tailored to a persons needs. I’ve benefitted greatly from the experience of working across a range of inpatient and outpatient hospital settings.
(02) 8074 5482 View (02) 8074 5482
Photo of Jodie Gale, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Jodie Gale
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Manly, NSW 2095
You may look like you’re coping, but inside you feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or not good enough. You might turn to food for comfort, control, or relief, then feel shame, guilt, or self-criticism afterwards. Many of the women I work with carry the impact of early trauma, emotional neglect, or difficult mother–daughter relationships that continue to shape how they feel about themselves. Some feel stuck in patterns they don’t understand, while others are quietly asking, “who am I, really?” and longing for a deeper, more meaningful connection with themselves, their body, and their inner world.
You may look like you’re coping, but inside you feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or not good enough. You might turn to food for comfort, control, or relief, then feel shame, guilt, or self-criticism afterwards. Many of the women I work with carry the impact of early trauma, emotional neglect, or difficult mother–daughter relationships that continue to shape how they feel about themselves. Some feel stuck in patterns they don’t understand, while others are quietly asking, “who am I, really?” and longing for a deeper, more meaningful connection with themselves, their body, and their inner world.
(02) 8294 7627 View (02) 8294 7627
Photo of Patrick Watts, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Patrick Watts
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Annandale, NSW 2038
Patrick works with adults experiencing a diverse range of issues, including low mood and depression, along with anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety, OCD, social anxiety and phobias. He can also assist with adjustment and moving forward following difficult life events. He strives to bring a warm, compassionate and genuine approach to therapy, and building a supportive relationship is at the heart of his work. His experience means he is well-equipped to support those moving through the challenges of life whilst seeking to build meaning and purpose along the way.
Patrick works with adults experiencing a diverse range of issues, including low mood and depression, along with anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety, OCD, social anxiety and phobias. He can also assist with adjustment and moving forward following difficult life events. He strives to bring a warm, compassionate and genuine approach to therapy, and building a supportive relationship is at the heart of his work. His experience means he is well-equipped to support those moving through the challenges of life whilst seeking to build meaning and purpose along the way.
(02) 9100 0206 View (02) 9100 0206
Photo of Clara Luxford, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Clara Luxford
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Darlinghurst, NSW 2010
I see psychotherapy as a collaborative journey of self discovery that can lead you to a more engaged and meaningful life. As we are all unique and complex beings, each of us will do this differently. Whether you feel stressed, overwhelmed, angry or depressed about some part of your life, as a therapist I will listen deeply, and hear what you say. Together, through our gentle conversations, we can find insights into your situation and identify the choices that are available to lead you to a better place. In my experience we all have the capacity to heal and grow in a caring and supportive environment.
I see psychotherapy as a collaborative journey of self discovery that can lead you to a more engaged and meaningful life. As we are all unique and complex beings, each of us will do this differently. Whether you feel stressed, overwhelmed, angry or depressed about some part of your life, as a therapist I will listen deeply, and hear what you say. Together, through our gentle conversations, we can find insights into your situation and identify the choices that are available to lead you to a better place. In my experience we all have the capacity to heal and grow in a caring and supportive environment.
(02) 5302 2023 View (02) 5302 2023
Photo of Amy Harper, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Amy Harper
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Bondi Junction, NSW 2022
Some areas I often work around are addressing mood changes, life transitions, building confidence and self-compassion, health, dis/ability, mental health, diverse bodies, body image concerns, trauma and experiences of abuse and violence, homelessness, navigating faith and cultural identity, and questioning and affirming sexuality or gender.
Hello, I'm Amy (they/them). I'm a registered Psychologist, and for the past 14 years have been counselling in community organisations with teens and adults. At the heart of my practice is providing trauma informed and affirming care to LGBTIQA+ people, their families and caregivers. My work is underpinned by ethics of social justice and advocacy, and takes into account how our lives are influenced by our context and experiences. I utilise ACT, DBT, CBT, Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness and Somatic Approaches amongst others to provide an integrative and individualised approach.
Some areas I often work around are addressing mood changes, life transitions, building confidence and self-compassion, health, dis/ability, mental health, diverse bodies, body image concerns, trauma and experiences of abuse and violence, homelessness, navigating faith and cultural identity, and questioning and affirming sexuality or gender.
Hello, I'm Amy (they/them). I'm a registered Psychologist, and for the past 14 years have been counselling in community organisations with teens and adults. At the heart of my practice is providing trauma informed and affirming care to LGBTIQA+ people, their families and caregivers. My work is underpinned by ethics of social justice and advocacy, and takes into account how our lives are influenced by our context and experiences. I utilise ACT, DBT, CBT, Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness and Somatic Approaches amongst others to provide an integrative and individualised approach.
(02) 9100 0548 View (02) 9100 0548
Photo of Shuwana Shiraze - Whole-Hearted Relationships, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Whole-Hearted Relationships
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
Are you and your partner feeling more like housemates than companions, struggling to connect, stuck in the same painful cycles, or living with a quiet disconnection no one else can see? Perhaps intimacy feels out of reach, or you’ve moved through relationships searching for closeness but never quite finding safety. If you’re wondering whether the bond can be restored, don’t wait until distance grows deeper. Whether you’re working on your relationship or exploring recurring patterns on your own, I’m here to walk alongside you. Reaching out takes courage, and you deserve the support to create the love you long for.
Are you and your partner feeling more like housemates than companions, struggling to connect, stuck in the same painful cycles, or living with a quiet disconnection no one else can see? Perhaps intimacy feels out of reach, or you’ve moved through relationships searching for closeness but never quite finding safety. If you’re wondering whether the bond can be restored, don’t wait until distance grows deeper. Whether you’re working on your relationship or exploring recurring patterns on your own, I’m here to walk alongside you. Reaching out takes courage, and you deserve the support to create the love you long for.
(03) 8797 2621 View (03) 8797 2621
Body Image Therapists
How does body image affect mental health?
Poor body image can influence mental health because it can reduce self-esteem and decrease functioning in other areas of one's life. Negative body image may hinder someone's ability to perform daily tasks, including professional and social responsibilities, because they may feel self-conscious or shame surrounding their appearance; a desire to change one's body as a result of negative body image can also trigger behaviors such as extreme dieting, excessive exercise, or obsessive social media comparison. Poor body image is associated with a number of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, although many people experience negative body image even in the absence of meeting the diagnostic criteria for any mental health disorders.

What does it mean to have a positive body image?
Body image refers to how one internally perceives their appearance and internally "talks" to themself about their body. Positive body image is therefore indicative of a positive perception of one's self and positive internal self-talk that underscores one's strengths. People who have good body image often have higher self-esteem, self-worth, and self-confidence, and they also often recognise how external factors, such as social media or relationship patterns, can influence body image. While body image can change at different life stages and in response to various triggers, practicing self-acceptance and a body-positive mindset can help maintain a more stable sense of positive body image.

Is body image the same as self-esteem?
Body image and self-esteem are often related, but they are distinct concepts. Self-esteem is a broader term that can be shaped by a number of factors outside of body image, including one's functioning at school or in the workplace; it refers to one's capacity to handle various life challenges. Poor body image can be one way in which one's self-esteem is reduced. Reduced self-esteem as a result of poor body image can cause individuals to feel negative about their appearance, withdraw from social interactions, and/or rely on harmful behaviours as a coping mechanism. A "body positive" approach to body image therapy is therefore often used to encourage a more positive view of one's self and thus encourage better self-esteem.

What type of therapy is best to foster a positive body image?
The type of therapy best suited to improve body image depends on each person, as there is not a single therapy specific to body image improvement. That said, many individuals with poor body image benefit from therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based therapy. CBT can be used to help challenge distorted or negative thoughts about one's body, while ACT and mindfulness practices can facilitate a more positive body image through self-acceptance and identification of one's personal strengths. Regardless of treatment type, clients should look for body image therapists who encourage the development of a sense of self outside of their external appearance and help clients reduce unwanted behaviours developed as a result of poor self-esteem, such as dieting or disordered eating patterns.