Psychodynamic Psychologists and Therapists in Ashfield, NSW

Kylie Andersen
Counsellor, MC, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Ashfield, NSW 2131
Are you someone who thinks deeply about your life but feels stuck? You try to get traction but keep finding yourself back in the same place? Maybe you struggle with your body image, or you’re caught in a cycle with food that leaves you feeling out of control. Maybe anxiety sits in the background, making life feel harder than it should. Maybe you're over-adapting in relationships, working hard to keep others happy, and losing sight of what you actually want. Or maybe there's just a nagging sense that the life you're living isn't quite yours.
Are you someone who thinks deeply about your life but feels stuck? You try to get traction but keep finding yourself back in the same place? Maybe you struggle with your body image, or you’re caught in a cycle with food that leaves you feeling out of control. Maybe anxiety sits in the background, making life feel harder than it should. Maybe you're over-adapting in relationships, working hard to keep others happy, and losing sight of what you actually want. Or maybe there's just a nagging sense that the life you're living isn't quite yours.
(02) 9158 6206 View (02) 9158 6206
Alex Quirk
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
The theoretical and philosophical interests informing my practice are guided mainly by the psychodynamic, existential and humanistic traditions.
Welcome - I’m Alex, a registered counsellor working together with people who want to feel more themselves. I offer an explorative approach to therapy, inviting you to closely acquaint yourself with your inner world. In this therapeutic space, parts of yourself that have previously been hidden away, or which have been too confusing or threatening to engage with, become possible to understand and embrace through our shared curiosity. This process can bring renewed flexibility to previously rigid patterns, helping you to live with greater freedom and authenticity in the longer term.
The theoretical and philosophical interests informing my practice are guided mainly by the psychodynamic, existential and humanistic traditions.
Welcome - I’m Alex, a registered counsellor working together with people who want to feel more themselves. I offer an explorative approach to therapy, inviting you to closely acquaint yourself with your inner world. In this therapeutic space, parts of yourself that have previously been hidden away, or which have been too confusing or threatening to engage with, become possible to understand and embrace through our shared curiosity. This process can bring renewed flexibility to previously rigid patterns, helping you to live with greater freedom and authenticity in the longer term.
0455 857 958 View 0455 857 958
Von Coves
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
Using IFS, EMDR, Psychodynamic approaches.
Master Counselling & Psychotherapy; Mediator; B.A. (Psychology & Philosophy); Grad. Cert. Management
Using IFS, EMDR, Psychodynamic approaches.
Master Counselling & Psychotherapy; Mediator; B.A. (Psychology & Philosophy); Grad. Cert. Management
(02) 9100 0400 View (02) 9100 0400
Emily S Chafei
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I am a clinical psychologist registrar based in Marrickville. I work with older adolescents (16+), adults and couples on their mental health, emotional and relationship issues. My passion is helping people improve their self-esteem, motivation, work stress and relationship issues. I support my clients to overcome life challenges and frame those challenges in terms of schema or negative self-belief barriers which can be overcome. I also enjoy working with couples on changing their relationship patterns and resolving their differences. I am skilled with culturally sensitive issues, coming from a multicultural perspective.
I am a clinical psychologist registrar based in Marrickville. I work with older adolescents (16+), adults and couples on their mental health, emotional and relationship issues. My passion is helping people improve their self-esteem, motivation, work stress and relationship issues. I support my clients to overcome life challenges and frame those challenges in terms of schema or negative self-belief barriers which can be overcome. I also enjoy working with couples on changing their relationship patterns and resolving their differences. I am skilled with culturally sensitive issues, coming from a multicultural perspective.
(02) 9100 0138 View (02) 9100 0138
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
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
Sophie Kearns
Counsellor, PACFA
Serves Area
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or aware that something in your life isn’t quite right, you don’t have to navigate it on your own. Sometimes the experience is clear - stress, anxiety, low mood, or a difficult life transition. At other times, it can feel like something harder to name: a sense of disconnection, of being unsettled or out of alignment, maybe a quiet inner signal - a soul cry - asking for attention, care, and understanding. I have particular interest areas in supporting women, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and 20 and 30 somethings.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or aware that something in your life isn’t quite right, you don’t have to navigate it on your own. Sometimes the experience is clear - stress, anxiety, low mood, or a difficult life transition. At other times, it can feel like something harder to name: a sense of disconnection, of being unsettled or out of alignment, maybe a quiet inner signal - a soul cry - asking for attention, care, and understanding. I have particular interest areas in supporting women, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and 20 and 30 somethings.
0416 823 664 View 0416 823 664
Exclusive Wellbeing
Psychologist, MPsych, MACPA
Serves Area
Drawing from a diverse range of modalities, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), attachment-based psychotherapy, Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies (CBT & Schema Therapy), psychodynamic therapies, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), we tailor a therapeutic experience that resonates deeply with your journey.
Support for Life’s Challenges At Exclusive Wellbeing in Parramatta, therapy is about you—your life, your story, and the changes you want to see. No concern is ever too small to bring into the room. You are welcome to come exactly as you are, and together we’ll explore what matters most to you. Our psychologists and psychotherapists offer a safe, supportive space where you can feel heard and understood. We’ll help you make sense of your experiences, uncover personal insights, and find practical ways forward—whether that means easing the weight of trauma, navigating anxiety or depression, or coping with stress from work, study, family
Drawing from a diverse range of modalities, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), attachment-based psychotherapy, Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies (CBT & Schema Therapy), psychodynamic therapies, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), we tailor a therapeutic experience that resonates deeply with your journey.
Support for Life’s Challenges At Exclusive Wellbeing in Parramatta, therapy is about you—your life, your story, and the changes you want to see. No concern is ever too small to bring into the room. You are welcome to come exactly as you are, and together we’ll explore what matters most to you. Our psychologists and psychotherapists offer a safe, supportive space where you can feel heard and understood. We’ll help you make sense of your experiences, uncover personal insights, and find practical ways forward—whether that means easing the weight of trauma, navigating anxiety or depression, or coping with stress from work, study, family
(02) 9630 0451 View (02) 9630 0451
Sara Bertolini at 'Some Therapy' EMDR, RI-EMDR
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I am Registered Psychologist with a strong commitment to social justice and supporting individuals from all walks of life. I believe therapy should be inclusive, culturally responsive, and grounded in both compassion and evidence-based care. I welcome people of all cultural backgrounds, gender identities, sexual orientations, relationship structures, and lived experiences, and I am committed to providing an affirming and non-judgmental space. Whether you are navigating trauma, anxiety, relationship challenges, or longstanding patterns that feel difficult to shift, you deserve a space where you feel safe, respected, and understood.
I am Registered Psychologist with a strong commitment to social justice and supporting individuals from all walks of life. I believe therapy should be inclusive, culturally responsive, and grounded in both compassion and evidence-based care. I welcome people of all cultural backgrounds, gender identities, sexual orientations, relationship structures, and lived experiences, and I am committed to providing an affirming and non-judgmental space. Whether you are navigating trauma, anxiety, relationship challenges, or longstanding patterns that feel difficult to shift, you deserve a space where you feel safe, respected, and understood.
(02) 8000 1814 View (02) 8000 1814
Amanda Stickland
Counsellor, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am experienced clinical counsellor with extensive experience working with adults, teenagers and families both in the UK and in Australia. I am a Clinical Member of the Psychotherapists and Counsellors Association of Australia (PACFA). I have extensive experience working with trauma and understand that challenges this can have on your daily functioning. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, identity and relationship issues. I have developed a deep understanding of the complexities of working with vulnerable populations and have a strong commitment to supporting people with the challenges they face.
I am experienced clinical counsellor with extensive experience working with adults, teenagers and families both in the UK and in Australia. I am a Clinical Member of the Psychotherapists and Counsellors Association of Australia (PACFA). I have extensive experience working with trauma and understand that challenges this can have on your daily functioning. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, identity and relationship issues. I have developed a deep understanding of the complexities of working with vulnerable populations and have a strong commitment to supporting people with the challenges they face.
(02) 4214 4168 View (02) 4214 4168
Dr Saniya Singh
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I'm comfortable deriving from a number of modalities but primarily use psychodynamic, schema and EDMR for longer-term work.
I am a Clinical Psychologist and obtained a combined Masters/PhD (Clinical Psychology) from the University of Wollongong. I work with people from short to long-term, depending on their needs to address a range of difficulties including anxiety, low mood, relationship difficulties, anger and identity issues. I have a relational focus in my work and am comfortable integrating a number of modalities to help people understand themselves and change entrenched behaviours.
I'm comfortable deriving from a number of modalities but primarily use psychodynamic, schema and EDMR for longer-term work.
I am a Clinical Psychologist and obtained a combined Masters/PhD (Clinical Psychology) from the University of Wollongong. I work with people from short to long-term, depending on their needs to address a range of difficulties including anxiety, low mood, relationship difficulties, anger and identity issues. I have a relational focus in my work and am comfortable integrating a number of modalities to help people understand themselves and change entrenched behaviours.
(02) 8105 6839 View (02) 8105 6839
Julia Ellis
Counsellor, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello, I'm Julia. I approach counselling as a place for genuine connection and meaning making. My style of therapy is conversational. I support 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, and am deeply informed by social justice and critical theory. This means I work with you to explore how you make sense of your life and experiences. 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. My style of therapy is conversational. I support 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, and am deeply informed by social justice and critical theory. This means I work with you to explore how you make sense of your life and experiences. 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
Helen Ng
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a caring and compassionate multilingual psychologist fluent in English, Mandarin, and Cantonese. I work with all age groups and address a wide range of psychological issues, including adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, stress, phobias, mood and thinking disorders, psychosis, life transitions, identity and self-esteem, relationships, cross-cultural challenges, and work-related concerns. I also provide career coaching, pre/post-marriage counselling, parenting advice, Christian counselling, and cognitive assessments.
I am a caring and compassionate multilingual psychologist fluent in English, Mandarin, and Cantonese. I work with all age groups and address a wide range of psychological issues, including adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, stress, phobias, mood and thinking disorders, psychosis, life transitions, identity and self-esteem, relationships, cross-cultural challenges, and work-related concerns. I also provide career coaching, pre/post-marriage counselling, parenting advice, Christian counselling, and cognitive assessments.
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Alison L Turner
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
I work primarily from Psychoanalytic and Psychodynamic models, possibly blending in other modalities depending on an individuals needs.
I work with people seeking therapy to heal from past trauma, family of origin issues, problems with coping in current life and people seeking to grow and reach their potential. I also work with couples who are experiencing problems in their relationship or wanting to improve their relationship for an upcoming stage of life (childbirth, moving in together, marriage, etc) I help people in different stages of adult life to explore the roots of their problems and uncover unconscious patterns to help provide insight, better knowledge of oneself which helps to create a path forward for a life that is meaningful and fulfilling for them.
I work primarily from Psychoanalytic and Psychodynamic models, possibly blending in other modalities depending on an individuals needs.
I work with people seeking therapy to heal from past trauma, family of origin issues, problems with coping in current life and people seeking to grow and reach their potential. I also work with couples who are experiencing problems in their relationship or wanting to improve their relationship for an upcoming stage of life (childbirth, moving in together, marriage, etc) I help people in different stages of adult life to explore the roots of their problems and uncover unconscious patterns to help provide insight, better knowledge of oneself which helps to create a path forward for a life that is meaningful and fulfilling for them.
0451 114 864 View 0451 114 864

More Therapists Nearby

Meg Carrigan
Social Worker, AMHSW
Drummoyne, NSW 2047
I work with adults experiencing the effects of trauma, anxiety, relational difficulties, and life stress, many of whom feel stuck in patterns they do not fully understand. Clients often seek therapy when past experiences, childhood wounds, or recent trauma begin impacting their relationships, sense of self, or daily functioning. I provide a neuroaffirming, trauma-informed space to help clients understand the origins of their difficulties, strengthen coping strategies, and create meaningful, lasting change.
I work with adults experiencing the effects of trauma, anxiety, relational difficulties, and life stress, many of whom feel stuck in patterns they do not fully understand. Clients often seek therapy when past experiences, childhood wounds, or recent trauma begin impacting their relationships, sense of self, or daily functioning. I provide a neuroaffirming, trauma-informed space to help clients understand the origins of their difficulties, strengthen coping strategies, and create meaningful, lasting change.
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Esther Ogilvie
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Do you suffer from unprocessed trauma or feel stuck, anxious, depressed? Are you experiencing sex or gender identity issues, interpersonal struggles or emotional dysregulation? This includes relationships with fear, self-doubt, shame and guilt, and major life transitions. Through our sessions you will see a change in your nervous system and emotional regulation, self-awareness of patterns and behaviours, self-compassion and a larger vitality for life. I offer support for individuals and couples experiencing relationship challenges particularly ethical non monogamy and kink. Couples will experience a new found sense of understanding.
Do you suffer from unprocessed trauma or feel stuck, anxious, depressed? Are you experiencing sex or gender identity issues, interpersonal struggles or emotional dysregulation? This includes relationships with fear, self-doubt, shame and guilt, and major life transitions. Through our sessions you will see a change in your nervous system and emotional regulation, self-awareness of patterns and behaviours, self-compassion and a larger vitality for life. I offer support for individuals and couples experiencing relationship challenges particularly ethical non monogamy and kink. Couples will experience a new found sense of understanding.
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Ilana Cohn
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Randwick, NSW 2031
Waitlist for new clients
I work primarily from a psychodynamic framework, while drawing on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and other approaches to suit each person’s needs.
I have a particular interest in intergenerational trauma and have published research in this area. I also enjoy working with artists and creatives, supporting the unique emotional, relational, and identity challenges that can accompany creative work.
I work primarily from a psychodynamic framework, while drawing on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and other approaches to suit each person’s needs.
I have a particular interest in intergenerational trauma and have published research in this area. I also enjoy working with artists and creatives, supporting the unique emotional, relational, and identity challenges that can accompany creative work.
0413 515 280 View 0413 515 280
Andrea Middling
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Online Only
NOW accepting NEW clients & HAVE availability! “I offer trauma informed therapy in a safe and non- judgemental space, so you can work through whatever difficulties you are experiencing, live more mindfully and embrace your inner strengths & resources.” My style is warm and empathic, though I can challenge respectfully when needed. I regard the therapeutic relationship as team work and appreciate that it takes significant courage to reach for counselling.
NOW accepting NEW clients & HAVE availability! “I offer trauma informed therapy in a safe and non- judgemental space, so you can work through whatever difficulties you are experiencing, live more mindfully and embrace your inner strengths & resources.” My style is warm and empathic, though I can challenge respectfully when needed. I regard the therapeutic relationship as team work and appreciate that it takes significant courage to reach for counselling.
(07) 3214 3678 View (07) 3214 3678
Alexander Webb
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Online Only
Hi, I'm Alex. I help people who worry about what others think of them, get stressed or uncomfortable in social situations, find it hard to trust or be vulnerable with people, or keep running into difficulties in their relationships. I also work with people who get overwhelmed or shut down, spend too much time caught in their own head, experience stress and tension in their body, or have a hard time understanding why they feel and react the way they do. Sometimes the difficulty is broader; knowing what you want, finding your place with other people, or working out how to navigate a life that doesn't always make much sense to you.
Hi, I'm Alex. I help people who worry about what others think of them, get stressed or uncomfortable in social situations, find it hard to trust or be vulnerable with people, or keep running into difficulties in their relationships. I also work with people who get overwhelmed or shut down, spend too much time caught in their own head, experience stress and tension in their body, or have a hard time understanding why they feel and react the way they do. Sometimes the difficulty is broader; knowing what you want, finding your place with other people, or working out how to navigate a life that doesn't always make much sense to you.
(02) 4077 2831 View (02) 4077 2831
Jordan Wainer
Psychologist, MAPS
2 Endorsed
Bondi Junction, NSW 2022
I have training in a number of therapy approaches but generally work from a Psychodynamic point of view.
In my work I have found that people are often exploring how to heal, how to hold overwhelming experience, how to find some relief and understanding in the midst of psychological distress, how to manage complexity in relationships. Each person has their own reasons for seeking therapy and their own sense of what they would like the process to provide. My commitment is to offer a confidential space where I listen to you with care and respect and where we work together to understand what you are experiencing.
I have training in a number of therapy approaches but generally work from a Psychodynamic point of view.
In my work I have found that people are often exploring how to heal, how to hold overwhelming experience, how to find some relief and understanding in the midst of psychological distress, how to manage complexity in relationships. Each person has their own reasons for seeking therapy and their own sense of what they would like the process to provide. My commitment is to offer a confidential space where I listen to you with care and respect and where we work together to understand what you are experiencing.
(02) 9100 0296 View (02) 9100 0296
Psychodynamic Therapists
Is psychodynamic therapy evidence-based?
Studies have found psychodynamic therapy to be effective in treating conditions like social anxiety, eating disorders, chronic pain, some personality disorders, and depression; indeed, some studies have found it to be just as effective as CBT or medication. What’s more, several studies have found that the benefits of psychodynamic therapy tend to endure—even grow—long after treatment has ended.

How long does psychodynamic therapy last?
Unlike CBT and other more structured forms of therapy, psychodynamic therapy tends to be open-ended and may not be limited to a set number of sessions. It is common for clients to be in therapy for a year or longer and to see their therapist one to three times a week, though the exact schedule and timeline may vary depending on a client’s challenges and progress. However, brief psychodynamic therapy is available, which tends to be more goal-oriented and typically unfolds over 16 to 30 sessions.

Does psychodynamic therapy work?
Research finds that psychodynamic therapy can help someone manage or reduce symptoms of diagnosable mental health conditions like depression or anxiety. The modality may also offer a range of benefits that are harder to measure but just as valuable—such as increased self-worth or healthier relationships. While no therapy type will work for everyone, research and anecdotal evidence suggest that psychodynamic therapy can be highly effective.

What are the limitations of psychodynamic therapy?
Some meta-analyses have concluded that there is little evidence to suggest that psychodynamic therapy can effectively treat certain mental health conditions such as PTSD, OCD, or psychosis, though it is sometimes used to do so. More broadly, the open-ended, free-association structure of psychodynamic therapy may be frustrating for clients who prefer a more structured, time-limited, or goal-oriented approach.