Women's Issues Psychologists and Therapists in Ashfield, NSW

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
Maria Simonetta
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
When lingering or reoccurring issues arise they create within us a dissatisfaction about life and how we feel about ourselves. Issues such as relationship difficulties, addictions, career, life transitions, parenting, depression, anxiety, stress, body image, negative beliefs and thoughts, emotional overwhelm, aggression, low energy, impulsivity etc. can affect your self esteem and your ability to think clearly and solve problems effectively. Learning new skills, building on resilience and resources and dealing with past issues that affect your present life can be empowering and create satisfaction and fulfilment in your life.
When lingering or reoccurring issues arise they create within us a dissatisfaction about life and how we feel about ourselves. Issues such as relationship difficulties, addictions, career, life transitions, parenting, depression, anxiety, stress, body image, negative beliefs and thoughts, emotional overwhelm, aggression, low energy, impulsivity etc. can affect your self esteem and your ability to think clearly and solve problems effectively. Learning new skills, building on resilience and resources and dealing with past issues that affect your present life can be empowering and create satisfaction and fulfilment in your life.
(02) 8073 9397 View (02) 8073 9397
Alison L Turner
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
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 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
EMDR Consultation and Supervision
Social Worker, AMHSW
Ashfield, NSW 2131
Lorraine Wright is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and EMDR Consultant with over 25 years of experience in trauma therapy. She specializes in complex post-traumatic stress, childhood sexual assault survivors, and domestic violence. Lorraine offers a holistic approach, integrating various therapies like EMDR, ACT, and DBT. She provides supervision and consultation to health professionals and sees clients through Open Arms, Victim Services, Medicare, and privately. With evidence-based practice and intuition, Lorraine guides individuals on their healing journey.
Lorraine Wright is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and EMDR Consultant with over 25 years of experience in trauma therapy. She specializes in complex post-traumatic stress, childhood sexual assault survivors, and domestic violence. Lorraine offers a holistic approach, integrating various therapies like EMDR, ACT, and DBT. She provides supervision and consultation to health professionals and sees clients through Open Arms, Victim Services, Medicare, and privately. With evidence-based practice and intuition, Lorraine guides individuals on their healing journey.
(02) 8294 9667 View (02) 8294 9667
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
Michele Benson
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Michele Benson is registered Clinical Psychologist and Board Approved Supervisor with the Psychology Board of Australia. Additionally, Michele holds a Bachelor of Nursing and Graduate Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy. While she no longer maintains registration as an RN, Michele has accrued over 20 years of experience working as a mental health nurse, counsellor, and psychologist in a broad range of public and private mental health and hospital settings.
Michele Benson is registered Clinical Psychologist and Board Approved Supervisor with the Psychology Board of Australia. Additionally, Michele holds a Bachelor of Nursing and Graduate Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy. While she no longer maintains registration as an RN, Michele has accrued over 20 years of experience working as a mental health nurse, counsellor, and psychologist in a broad range of public and private mental health and hospital settings.
(02) 9098 5103 View (02) 9098 5103
Sarah Martin
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and Specialist Grief and Bereavement Counsellor. I am passionate about creating a safe and compassionate space to walk alongside people while they navigate the complexities of life, loss and grief. With deep respect for each person’s unique journey, I hold space for the kinds of deep conversations and yarns that are often overlooked or dismissed. My practice is grounded in a strengths-based, person-centred, trauma-informed, and decolonised framework.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and Specialist Grief and Bereavement Counsellor. I am passionate about creating a safe and compassionate space to walk alongside people while they navigate the complexities of life, loss and grief. With deep respect for each person’s unique journey, I hold space for the kinds of deep conversations and yarns that are often overlooked or dismissed. My practice is grounded in a strengths-based, person-centred, trauma-informed, and decolonised framework.
0406 684 917 View 0406 684 917
Voula Kougelos
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Serves Area
With over 35 years experience in various therapy and senior health management roles including President of the NSW Association of Adolescent Health, I have had the privilege and opportunity to listen to and develop a deep understanding of the needs of others. I use a range of evidence based, wholistic, strength focussed and trauma informed strategies to support, empower and enhance mental wellbeing.
With over 35 years experience in various therapy and senior health management roles including President of the NSW Association of Adolescent Health, I have had the privilege and opportunity to listen to and develop a deep understanding of the needs of others. I use a range of evidence based, wholistic, strength focussed and trauma informed strategies to support, empower and enhance mental wellbeing.
(02) 8599 0768 View (02) 8599 0768
Paula Barham
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
Serves Area
I’m honoured to have been recognised as one of the top 3 therapists in Sydney in 2025, serving as the principal therapist specialising in relationship therapy. With over 20 years of experience working with diverse cultures, I strive to provide compassionate support to couples. We all lose our way at times and may need support to get back on track and reignite our relationship, no matter how long or short you have been together. My aim is not for you to keep coming to me but to empower you to develop skills—such as effective communication, conflict resolution, and emotional connection—so you can navigate life independently.
I’m honoured to have been recognised as one of the top 3 therapists in Sydney in 2025, serving as the principal therapist specialising in relationship therapy. With over 20 years of experience working with diverse cultures, I strive to provide compassionate support to couples. We all lose our way at times and may need support to get back on track and reignite our relationship, no matter how long or short you have been together. My aim is not for you to keep coming to me but to empower you to develop skills—such as effective communication, conflict resolution, and emotional connection—so you can navigate life independently.
(02) 9100 0945 View (02) 9100 0945
Val Coelho
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Online Only
Many people come to counselling feeling stuck in survival mode. They are overwhelmed, constantly overthinking, emotionally reactive, or caught in the same relationship patterns they promised themselves they would not repeat. I work with people who are tired of analysing everything and still feeling the same. In our work together, we slow things down so you can understand what is driving your reactions, regulate your emotions, and respond differently with more clarity, control, and self-trust.
Many people come to counselling feeling stuck in survival mode. They are overwhelmed, constantly overthinking, emotionally reactive, or caught in the same relationship patterns they promised themselves they would not repeat. I work with people who are tired of analysing everything and still feeling the same. In our work together, we slow things down so you can understand what is driving your reactions, regulate your emotions, and respond differently with more clarity, control, and self-trust.
(02) 9100 0941 View (02) 9100 0941
Miriam Chan
Social Worker, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you stuck in how you feel and would love to learn how to get out of the cycle? Are you prepared to learn some new skills to change how you feel? It can be scary to reach out and give counselling a go but I am here and can help. You will learn skills to create better connections with others, cope better with future stress and challenges, and feel more confident in managing your mental health and wellbeing.
Are you stuck in how you feel and would love to learn how to get out of the cycle? Are you prepared to learn some new skills to change how you feel? It can be scary to reach out and give counselling a go but I am here and can help. You will learn skills to create better connections with others, cope better with future stress and challenges, and feel more confident in managing your mental health and wellbeing.
(02) 9538 7715 View (02) 9538 7715
Francesca Murden
Psychotherapist
Online Only
Over the last ten years I have helped adults and couples work through anxiety, relationship challenges, life transitions, and difficult life experiences. I have particular experience with cultural and migration challenges and I understand the disorientation and identity shifts of moving between cultures or starting a new chapter. I offer a confidential, non-judgmental space for you to feel safe to share what you are going through. Sessions are offered via telehealth, in English and Italian. Feel welcome to reach out for a free 15-min confidential chat - I’d love to hear from you.
Over the last ten years I have helped adults and couples work through anxiety, relationship challenges, life transitions, and difficult life experiences. I have particular experience with cultural and migration challenges and I understand the disorientation and identity shifts of moving between cultures or starting a new chapter. I offer a confidential, non-judgmental space for you to feel safe to share what you are going through. Sessions are offered via telehealth, in English and Italian. Feel welcome to reach out for a free 15-min confidential chat - I’d love to hear from you.
(02) 8320 5259 View (02) 8320 5259
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
Yasmin Amanakis
Counsellor, ACA-L1
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Have you been pushing through and trying different ways to cope? But deep down, you don’t just want to cope… you want to actually feel better within yourself, your relationships, and in your body? Often, the struggles we face in our daily lives, can start to feel like a pattern. Do you find yourself reacting or feeling hijacked by old wounds that resurface in the present? You don't have to stay stuck feeling this way, counselling offers a space to slow down and gently explore what's happening. I will help you develop new ways of relating with yourself and with others that feel calmer, clearer, and more connected.
Have you been pushing through and trying different ways to cope? But deep down, you don’t just want to cope… you want to actually feel better within yourself, your relationships, and in your body? Often, the struggles we face in our daily lives, can start to feel like a pattern. Do you find yourself reacting or feeling hijacked by old wounds that resurface in the present? You don't have to stay stuck feeling this way, counselling offers a space to slow down and gently explore what's happening. I will help you develop new ways of relating with yourself and with others that feel calmer, clearer, and more connected.
(02) 9051 2885 View (02) 9051 2885
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
Julia Ellis
Counsellor, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you feeling overwhelmed, going through a major change in your life, or making sense of your sexuality or gender? Welcome, I'm Julia. I would support you to gain a greater sense of your preferences, hopes and befriend all parts of yourself. My style of therapy is very conversational. I work to ensure you leave our sessions having found new territories of meaning, insight about your hopes for life and your skills in living. I am deeply informed by social justice and critical theory, and have qualifications in anti-oppressive and non-pathologising counselling approaches. I welcome all bodies, genders and identities.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, going through a major change in your life, or making sense of your sexuality or gender? Welcome, I'm Julia. I would support you to gain a greater sense of your preferences, hopes and befriend all parts of yourself. My style of therapy is very conversational. I work to ensure you leave our sessions having found new territories of meaning, insight about your hopes for life and your skills in living. I am deeply informed by social justice and critical theory, and have qualifications in anti-oppressive and non-pathologising counselling approaches. I welcome all bodies, genders and identities.
(02) 9100 0093 View (02) 9100 0093
Exclusive Wellbeing
Psychologist, MPsych, MACPA
Serves Area
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
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
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
Unlock The Mind Counselling Services
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Tanuja is an enthusiastic, self-aware therapist with a strong work ethic and a deeply ingrained desire to help others. She has highly developed interpersonal skills and understands working with individuals and couples from diverse backgrounds. She is skilled in Trauma, Domestic violence and suicide prevention, drawing from different therapeutic modalities. She has a considerable interest in helping people facing challenges with mental health. Her natural interests are helping people feel comfortable and open, exploring and understanding their concerns and bringing about positive change and greater well-being.
Tanuja is an enthusiastic, self-aware therapist with a strong work ethic and a deeply ingrained desire to help others. She has highly developed interpersonal skills and understands working with individuals and couples from diverse backgrounds. She is skilled in Trauma, Domestic violence and suicide prevention, drawing from different therapeutic modalities. She has a considerable interest in helping people facing challenges with mental health. Her natural interests are helping people feel comfortable and open, exploring and understanding their concerns and bringing about positive change and greater well-being.
(02) 8105 5488 View (02) 8105 5488
Justine Pash
Counsellor, PACFA
Serves Area
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.
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.
(02) 9100 0552 View (02) 9100 0552
Women's Issues Therapists
How do you encourage a woman to go to therapy?
It’s helpful to express concern and love for the person while framing therapy as a tool for improving their life. Offering specific examples of how an individual may be suffering, and what effects it has on them, should be done with compassion and with empathy. It may be useful to devise a game plan—breaking the process down into parts, such as finding a therapist, making appointments, and looking into insurance coverage.

How can women prepare for therapy?
Women can prepare for therapy by being willing to talk about their past experiences and their private thoughts. Before a session, an individual may want to reflect on how they’ve felt since the last session and what’s happened in their lives. Between sessions, it can be useful to write down notes about their reaction to a given event or how they felt at a particular time.

How long does therapy for women’s issues often last?
As with any type of therapy, sessions depend on the individual and the challenges they face. Therapy types like Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), Prolonged exposure therapy (PET), and Eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR) can be brief, most often ranging from between 5 and 20 sessions. In some cases, such as for women with eating disorders, residential treatment may be recommended for an individual who is judged to be at high risk of self-harm. For any therapy, the duration will depend on the progress made and results realised.

How can women overcome stigma around specific challenges in order to seek therapy?
Women dealing with domestic abuse, sexual assault, eating disorders, and any other number of troubles may feel a stigma around seeking help. It’s important to remember that these issues are not uncommon and there is no shame in getting help for them. Therapy is confidential, and women can talk about their experiences without fear of judgment. Seeking therapy can be a courageous and liberating act, and an important step toward healing and recovery.