Adoption Psychologists and Therapists in Chatswood, NSW

Photo of Sylvia Chen, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Sylvia Chen
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
I am a trauma-informed clinical counsellor, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), gong sound healer, breathwork facilitator that firmly believes in the value of human life. I have experience in a range of areas including marriage/relationship, anxiety and stress, trauma, depression, attachment, family of origin issues, parenting, grief & loss, personal growth & development, special need supports and chronic health related concerns. ​I am warm, caring and insightful. I am here to support your integration, and all of the various parts of your personality and being, into a balanced and joyful whole, made up of body, mind and soul.
I am a trauma-informed clinical counsellor, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), gong sound healer, breathwork facilitator that firmly believes in the value of human life. I have experience in a range of areas including marriage/relationship, anxiety and stress, trauma, depression, attachment, family of origin issues, parenting, grief & loss, personal growth & development, special need supports and chronic health related concerns. ​I am warm, caring and insightful. I am here to support your integration, and all of the various parts of your personality and being, into a balanced and joyful whole, made up of body, mind and soul.
(02) 8403 0049 View (02) 8403 0049
Photo of Alexandra Page - Phoenix Therapeutic Services, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Phoenix Therapeutic Services
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi there! I work closely with clients to explore how their early attachment experiences impact their current relationship to themself and others. I help clients break negative patterns by creating emotional safety to explore the roots of their pain.
Hi there! I work closely with clients to explore how their early attachment experiences impact their current relationship to themself and others. I help clients break negative patterns by creating emotional safety to explore the roots of their pain.
(02) 8776 3698 View (02) 8776 3698
Photo of Matti Lee, Counsellor, MSc, PACFA
Matti Lee
Counsellor, MSc, PACFA
Serves Area
"Feeling stuck?" - This is one of the most common expression for counselling clients. Innerhealth Practice has been helping clients to explore options and exercise solutions in difficult situations. I am passionate about improving health and maintaining harmonious life balance. Life is filled with challenges and joy. If you would like to try a new way of coping, you might prefer working with someone who has been professionally trained in counselling combined with the practical experience. Look no further, make a call today and be in charge of your issue. Nationally Registered & Accredited services by PACFA and ACA.
"Feeling stuck?" - This is one of the most common expression for counselling clients. Innerhealth Practice has been helping clients to explore options and exercise solutions in difficult situations. I am passionate about improving health and maintaining harmonious life balance. Life is filled with challenges and joy. If you would like to try a new way of coping, you might prefer working with someone who has been professionally trained in counselling combined with the practical experience. Look no further, make a call today and be in charge of your issue. Nationally Registered & Accredited services by PACFA and ACA.
(02) 8294 8741 View (02) 8294 8741
Photo of Jo French Morales, Social Worker, AMHSW
Jo French Morales
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
I have 20 years experience providing therapeutic counselling for children, young people, families and adults. I hold a particular interest in supporting people who have experienced traumatic events, helping them navigate the effects of this and move towards healing. One of the primary modalities I utilise to do this is Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I have 20 years experience providing therapeutic counselling for children, young people, families and adults. I hold a particular interest in supporting people who have experienced traumatic events, helping them navigate the effects of this and move towards healing. One of the primary modalities I utilise to do this is Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).
(02) 8403 0626 View (02) 8403 0626
Photo of Skye Elizabeth Hudson - Skye E Hudson Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Skye E Hudson Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Online Only
I’m a trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming psychotherapist who works from an Internal Family Systems (IFS) lens. With a background in Gestalt therapy and a personal understanding of AUDHD and complex trauma, I offer compassionate, creative support for sensitive souls, neurodivergent adults, overwhelmed parents, and anyone navigating life transitions or self-doubt.
I’m a trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming psychotherapist who works from an Internal Family Systems (IFS) lens. With a background in Gestalt therapy and a personal understanding of AUDHD and complex trauma, I offer compassionate, creative support for sensitive souls, neurodivergent adults, overwhelmed parents, and anyone navigating life transitions or self-doubt.
(02) 5604 8849 View (02) 5604 8849

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Caroline Spiers, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Caroline Spiers
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Serves Area
Specialism in working with adoptees/people affected by adoption, donor conception, LGBTQIA/poly community, ASD, ADHD, complex traumas.
Are you struggling with your life and feel you might have unresolved issues, trauma, relationship or neurodiversity challenges or managing family dynamics/adoptee/grief and loss, bereavement or cultural issues? LGBTQIA+ needs that aren’t being seen or understood? Effective therapy will allow you space to talk and be heard and validated, guide you at your own pace on your journey and provide safety and non judgement to explore what can be achieved. This is the foundation of my practice - always from a trauma informed perspective.
Specialism in working with adoptees/people affected by adoption, donor conception, LGBTQIA/poly community, ASD, ADHD, complex traumas.
Are you struggling with your life and feel you might have unresolved issues, trauma, relationship or neurodiversity challenges or managing family dynamics/adoptee/grief and loss, bereavement or cultural issues? LGBTQIA+ needs that aren’t being seen or understood? Effective therapy will allow you space to talk and be heard and validated, guide you at your own pace on your journey and provide safety and non judgement to explore what can be achieved. This is the foundation of my practice - always from a trauma informed perspective.
(03) 7003 2855 View (03) 7003 2855
Photo of Kimberley Lee, Counsellor, PACFA
Kimberley Lee
Counsellor, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Potts Point, NSW 2011
I have lived experience with adoption and an interest in working with adopted people and their families.
I work with adoptees, people who are single on purpose, dating and new relationships, depression, anxiety, career and workplace challenges, major life changes and choices, and people who work in the sex industry. I believe everyone can make change with support and care through the process. I continue to develop my practice with ongoing training in somatic psychotherapy (2021-ongoing), am a certified trauma-informed yoga and meditation teacher, and a communications specialist. I also offer integrative lymphatic drainage massage.
I have lived experience with adoption and an interest in working with adopted people and their families.
I work with adoptees, people who are single on purpose, dating and new relationships, depression, anxiety, career and workplace challenges, major life changes and choices, and people who work in the sex industry. I believe everyone can make change with support and care through the process. I continue to develop my practice with ongoing training in somatic psychotherapy (2021-ongoing), am a certified trauma-informed yoga and meditation teacher, and a communications specialist. I also offer integrative lymphatic drainage massage.
(02) 8806 0548 View (02) 8806 0548
Photo of Ché Stevenson, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Ché Stevenson
Psychotherapist, PACFA
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
One of the barriers to self-care is allowing yourself to go into the depths of your experiences. Often, we are challenged to explore and understand this profound chasm, to touch what is held there, to hear its messages, and to connect with compassion to the raw emotions that have been lying dormant for years or just surfaced. By peering into the abyss, we can gain deeper understanding of ourselves and insight into the meaning of our lives; transforming and opening up possibilities the future could hold for us.
One of the barriers to self-care is allowing yourself to go into the depths of your experiences. Often, we are challenged to explore and understand this profound chasm, to touch what is held there, to hear its messages, and to connect with compassion to the raw emotions that have been lying dormant for years or just surfaced. By peering into the abyss, we can gain deeper understanding of ourselves and insight into the meaning of our lives; transforming and opening up possibilities the future could hold for us.
(03) 9118 9050 View (03) 9118 9050
Photo of Rachel Agnew - Rachel Agnew - New Beginnings Psychotherapy, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Rachel Agnew - New Beginnings Psychotherapy
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Online Only
Hi, I’m Rachel. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or like something just isn’t quite right, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to figure it out on your own. I’m a warm, down-to-earth therapist who offers a safe, non-judgemental space to talk things through at your pace. I work in a person-centred, trauma-informed way, which means I listen deeply, value your uniqueness, and support you to understand yourself more fully, not just at a cognitive level, but emotionally and relationally too. Together, we’ll explore whatever you're carrying and move towards healing and clarity.
Hi, I’m Rachel. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or like something just isn’t quite right, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to figure it out on your own. I’m a warm, down-to-earth therapist who offers a safe, non-judgemental space to talk things through at your pace. I work in a person-centred, trauma-informed way, which means I listen deeply, value your uniqueness, and support you to understand yourself more fully, not just at a cognitive level, but emotionally and relationally too. Together, we’ll explore whatever you're carrying and move towards healing and clarity.
(07) 3477 9543 View (07) 3477 9543
Photo of Renee Claire Voice, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Renee Claire Voice
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Newport, NSW 2106
Many people today feel isolated and alone in their relationships as a result of the current difficult times of the pandemic. A basic human need is to connect and the breakdown of relationships can be extremely painful. My aim is to help you grow in your relationship - to move from a state of conflict, loneliness, unhappiness to healing and connection with your partner.
Many people today feel isolated and alone in their relationships as a result of the current difficult times of the pandemic. A basic human need is to connect and the breakdown of relationships can be extremely painful. My aim is to help you grow in your relationship - to move from a state of conflict, loneliness, unhappiness to healing and connection with your partner.
(02) 4313 1538 View (02) 4313 1538
Photo of Mauro Vieira, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Mauro Vieira
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Bar Point, NSW 2083
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected? I offer a compassionate, client-centered approach to therapy, often in nature, where deep reflection and healing happen naturally. With 15+ years of experience, I support children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families facing trauma, anxiety, and life transitions. Originally trained in Brazil, I hold postgraduate qualifications in Art Therapy and Psychological Practice and am a registered Australian psychologist. Let’s work together to help you find clarity and resilience.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected? I offer a compassionate, client-centered approach to therapy, often in nature, where deep reflection and healing happen naturally. With 15+ years of experience, I support children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families facing trauma, anxiety, and life transitions. Originally trained in Brazil, I hold postgraduate qualifications in Art Therapy and Psychological Practice and am a registered Australian psychologist. Let’s work together to help you find clarity and resilience.
(02) 9158 6184 View (02) 9158 6184
Photo of Hitika Bhatia - Blossoming Minds Therapy, Psychotherapist, ACA-L3
Blossoming Minds Therapy
Psychotherapist, ACA-L3
1 Endorsed
Baulkham Hills, NSW 2153
We cover a wide range of Mental Health issues, and specialise in psychotherapy with a trauma focused approach. Our devoted clinicians can help you with issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, panic, eating disorders, relationship issues, expectations, workplace bullying, ignorant families, family traumas, death, and much more. Further, we help to improve the quality of life, and wellbeing of our clients that are diagnosed with different mental health disorders.
We cover a wide range of Mental Health issues, and specialise in psychotherapy with a trauma focused approach. Our devoted clinicians can help you with issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, panic, eating disorders, relationship issues, expectations, workplace bullying, ignorant families, family traumas, death, and much more. Further, we help to improve the quality of life, and wellbeing of our clients that are diagnosed with different mental health disorders.
(02) 8403 2200 View (02) 8403 2200
Photo of Dr Louise Mary McGreal, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Dr Louise Mary McGreal
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Online Only
I am passionate about working with individuals and couples who may be struggling with issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, loss, trauma, stress/burnout, low self-esteem, abuse and relationship issues. I also have a keen interest in personal development and helping clients promote self-awareness in their lives. I can provide alcohol free mentoring also for clients who may want to examine their relationship with alcohol and move towards an alcohol free lifestyle. I have completed level 1 and 2 training in the Gottman Method for couples counselling.
I am passionate about working with individuals and couples who may be struggling with issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, loss, trauma, stress/burnout, low self-esteem, abuse and relationship issues. I also have a keen interest in personal development and helping clients promote self-awareness in their lives. I can provide alcohol free mentoring also for clients who may want to examine their relationship with alcohol and move towards an alcohol free lifestyle. I have completed level 1 and 2 training in the Gottman Method for couples counselling.
0477 006 253 View 0477 006 253
Photo of Michael Grunwald, Psychologist, Assoc MAPS
Michael Grunwald
Psychologist, Assoc MAPS
Glebe, NSW 2037
As an older therapist, I bring decades of life experience into my counselling, with personal experience of many of the challenges facing clients, including trauma, grief/loss, neurodiversity (e.g. ADHD), sex/relationship/men's issues, workplace stress/bullying, hoarding, parenting and adoption.
After getting to know each other, we can explore the deeper foundations underlying your thoughts, emotions and behaviours, before using various approaches to provide you with simple yet effective methods for reducing acute symptoms in the short term, then transforming ways of thinking and feeling leading to more functional and satisfying longterm behaviours.
As an older therapist, I bring decades of life experience into my counselling, with personal experience of many of the challenges facing clients, including trauma, grief/loss, neurodiversity (e.g. ADHD), sex/relationship/men's issues, workplace stress/bullying, hoarding, parenting and adoption.
After getting to know each other, we can explore the deeper foundations underlying your thoughts, emotions and behaviours, before using various approaches to provide you with simple yet effective methods for reducing acute symptoms in the short term, then transforming ways of thinking and feeling leading to more functional and satisfying longterm behaviours.
(02) 8806 0512 View (02) 8806 0512
Photo of Kerryann Henry - KerryAnn Henry -Individual & Couples Therapy, Social Worker, AASW
KerryAnn Henry -Individual & Couples Therapy
Social Worker, AASW
Serves Area
Trauma is healed using safe somatic trauma therapies. Never too late to recover. Highly skilled effective trauma therapy is essential. You'll feel safe & valued finding no blaming or shaming. Your issues & relationship problems are normal impacts of trauma & solvable. I work with all issues such as childhood trauma, PTSD, DV/FV, anger, anxiety, sexual assault, communication, trust, shame, sexual issues, infidelity, addictions, parenting, ASD, MI & grief. Positive change occurs from the first session. There is nothing wrong with you -you just have trauma impacts- not your fault & fixable. You'll find me compassionate, curious & calm.
Trauma is healed using safe somatic trauma therapies. Never too late to recover. Highly skilled effective trauma therapy is essential. You'll feel safe & valued finding no blaming or shaming. Your issues & relationship problems are normal impacts of trauma & solvable. I work with all issues such as childhood trauma, PTSD, DV/FV, anger, anxiety, sexual assault, communication, trust, shame, sexual issues, infidelity, addictions, parenting, ASD, MI & grief. Positive change occurs from the first session. There is nothing wrong with you -you just have trauma impacts- not your fault & fixable. You'll find me compassionate, curious & calm.
(02) 5503 9341 View (02) 5503 9341
Photo of Richard Mark Hindmarsh Elms - Richard Elms Therapy Training Consulting, Social Worker, AMHSW
Richard Elms Therapy Training Consulting
Social Worker, AMHSW
Online Only
Richard Elms is an experienced therapist, offering compassionate and solution focussed counselling, working together with his clients to create meaningful and lasting change in their lives. Richard also provides clinical and professional supervision as well as training to other professionals.
Richard Elms is an experienced therapist, offering compassionate and solution focussed counselling, working together with his clients to create meaningful and lasting change in their lives. Richard also provides clinical and professional supervision as well as training to other professionals.
(07) 5241 2997 View (07) 5241 2997
Photo of Sam Solly, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Sam Solly
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I’m a Clinical Psychologist with a strong focus on stress, anxiety, and nervous system regulation. I offer the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), a gentle, evidence-based intervention that uses specially filtered music to support calming of the nervous system and improved emotional regulation. SSP can help reduce anxiety, overwhelm, and reactivity. I deliver SSP in a trauma-informed, carefully paced way, with ongoing support to ensure the process feels safe, contained, and tailored to your needs.
I’m a Clinical Psychologist with a strong focus on stress, anxiety, and nervous system regulation. I offer the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), a gentle, evidence-based intervention that uses specially filtered music to support calming of the nervous system and improved emotional regulation. SSP can help reduce anxiety, overwhelm, and reactivity. I deliver SSP in a trauma-informed, carefully paced way, with ongoing support to ensure the process feels safe, contained, and tailored to your needs.
View
Photo of Mayimuna Nakayiira - Ask_My Psychotherapy services , Psychotherapist, MPsych
Ask_My Psychotherapy services
Psychotherapist, MPsych
Merrylands, NSW 2160
There is nothing like an ideal client as there is no easy problem. Every issue is dependent on the client's own experience and how they have been affected by it. I have to look at everything from the client's perspective as there is no "0ne therapy fit all" in my practice rooms. People are unique and have different goals even for somewhat similar problems or issues depending on their cognitive, emotional, and behavioural dispositions and how this impacts their values and beliefs. My purpose is to provide my client with all-rounder care and support on a journey of personal growth and development to self-actualize wholly.
There is nothing like an ideal client as there is no easy problem. Every issue is dependent on the client's own experience and how they have been affected by it. I have to look at everything from the client's perspective as there is no "0ne therapy fit all" in my practice rooms. People are unique and have different goals even for somewhat similar problems or issues depending on their cognitive, emotional, and behavioural dispositions and how this impacts their values and beliefs. My purpose is to provide my client with all-rounder care and support on a journey of personal growth and development to self-actualize wholly.
(02) 7804 4473 View (02) 7804 4473
Photo of Claudia Vayda, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Claudia Vayda
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Stanmore, NSW 2048
With over 25 years’ experience as a Psychologist and Family Therapist, I have worked both in crisis and outpatient settings with drug and alcohol, at-risk, and acute mental health populations as well as in private practice with couples, families, and individuals. My work now focusses on working together to facilitate and create sustained positive change with my clients, and to assist recovery from abuse, trauma, and adverse life events.
With over 25 years’ experience as a Psychologist and Family Therapist, I have worked both in crisis and outpatient settings with drug and alcohol, at-risk, and acute mental health populations as well as in private practice with couples, families, and individuals. My work now focusses on working together to facilitate and create sustained positive change with my clients, and to assist recovery from abuse, trauma, and adverse life events.
0493 838 567 View 0493 838 567
Photo of Jelena Vojicic, Psychologist, Assoc MAPS
Jelena Vojicic
Psychologist, Assoc MAPS
Online Only
My ideal client is someone who feels emotionally overwhelmed, stuck in repeating patterns, or disconnected from themselves or loved ones. They may struggle with anxiety, unresolved family dynamics, or challenges in their relationship. What they truly need is a safe, non-judgmental space to be heard and understood. Their goal is to heal, find clarity, and build healthier relationships — with themselves and others. They want change because they long for emotional balance, deeper connection, and a more authentic life.
My ideal client is someone who feels emotionally overwhelmed, stuck in repeating patterns, or disconnected from themselves or loved ones. They may struggle with anxiety, unresolved family dynamics, or challenges in their relationship. What they truly need is a safe, non-judgmental space to be heard and understood. Their goal is to heal, find clarity, and build healthier relationships — with themselves and others. They want change because they long for emotional balance, deeper connection, and a more authentic life.
0406 040 838 View 0406 040 838

See more therapy options for Chatswood

Adoption Therapists
Does my adopted child need therapy?
Not every adopted child needs therapy. However, many can benefit from seeing an adoption-informed therapist, especially if they were victims of abuse or neglect, appear withdrawn or disconnected, have behavioural or developmental issues (which may or may not be related to their adoption), are struggling with feelings of grief or loss surrounding their birth parents, or find it difficult to establish an identity, a challenge that often becomes most apparent during adolescence.

When should adoptive parents seek therapy?
Prospective parents can benefit from therapy even before an adoption—for example, to voice worries and fears; to reconcile infertility struggles, if relevant; or simply to prepare themselves for parenthood. After the adoption, parents who are struggling to bond with their child; are unsure how to talk about adoption or related issues, such as race; or whose child is dealing with developmental, behavioural, or psychiatric concerns can address these and other issues with the help of an adoption-competent therapist.

Is family therapy appropriate for adoptive families?
Family therapy can be invaluable for strengthening the bond between adoptive parents and children, helping the latter feel more secure in their place in the family. Family therapy can also help adoptive families navigate complex communication issues—for example, parents who feel uncomfortable discussing race with their child, who in turn feels invalidated by their silence, or a child who has questions about his birth parents but avoids asking them out of fear of hurting his adoptive parents’ feelings.

What therapy is not appropriate for adoption issues?
A discredited therapy known as “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy” or “rebirthing therapy”) should not be used to treat adopted and foster children, though it was largely designed for this population. Attachment therapy involves restraining, coercing, and punishing the child in order for them to “release” negative emotions and attach to their new caregivers—techniques that are abusive and dangerous and have even proven fatal in some cases.