Adoption Psychologists and Therapists in Sydney, NSW
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.
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.
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.
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.
My role is to listen, to understand and to identify what it is that you seek help with. Our work will be about building an understanding of what is going on internally and externally for you, in particular, the things about yourself that you may not be aware of. As we gain this understanding of you, it becomes easier for you and I to make sense of what is happening within you, why you act and feel a particular way in certain situations and relationships. By understanding and acting on these things, you will be able to bring about change in your life.
My role is to listen, to understand and to identify what it is that you seek help with. Our work will be about building an understanding of what is going on internally and externally for you, in particular, the things about yourself that you may not be aware of. As we gain this understanding of you, it becomes easier for you and I to make sense of what is happening within you, why you act and feel a particular way in certain situations and relationships. By understanding and acting on these things, you will be able to bring about change in your life.
I work with folks navigating big changes or complicated relationship dynamics: separation, blended families, co-parenting, and patterns that keep repeating despite your best efforts. Many people come feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in roles they don’t want to keep playing. I help you slow things down, make sense of what’s happening underneath, and find a path forward so you can move with clarity and integrity rather than react out of old patterns.
I work with folks navigating big changes or complicated relationship dynamics: separation, blended families, co-parenting, and patterns that keep repeating despite your best efforts. Many people come feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in roles they don’t want to keep playing. I help you slow things down, make sense of what’s happening underneath, and find a path forward so you can move with clarity and integrity rather than react out of old patterns.
We combine the best of face-to-face sessions with the added benefits of an integrated digital approach to provide you with a seamless, informative and low stress experience.
We combine the best of face-to-face sessions with the added benefits of an integrated digital approach to provide you with a seamless, informative and low stress experience.
Founded in 2006 with a small but growing team of talented psychologists, we specialise in both short-term and long-term work on a wide range of problems. Our psychologists specialise in adult and adolescent individual and family sessions, to address mental illness, adjustment difficulties, interpersonal conflict, workplace stress, as well as complex challenges such as trauma, chronic illness, and relationship breakdown. Set in a quiet location with easy parking and access to public transport nearby.
Founded in 2006 with a small but growing team of talented psychologists, we specialise in both short-term and long-term work on a wide range of problems. Our psychologists specialise in adult and adolescent individual and family sessions, to address mental illness, adjustment difficulties, interpersonal conflict, workplace stress, as well as complex challenges such as trauma, chronic illness, and relationship breakdown. Set in a quiet location with easy parking and access to public transport nearby.
I have worked with individuals and couples for over thirty years, helping them negotiate the struggles of life in this time of quick change, uncertainty and significant social pressure. Relationships are the first victims when people become anxious or challenged in their lives. Yet I believe relationships are the core to good mental health and personal development. These issues are relevant to people of all ages, and not specific to gender, race or religion. The presenting symptom could be grief, anxiety, depression, arguments, irritability or any form of dysfunctional behaviour - the underlying issue has to be addressed.
I have worked with individuals and couples for over thirty years, helping them negotiate the struggles of life in this time of quick change, uncertainty and significant social pressure. Relationships are the first victims when people become anxious or challenged in their lives. Yet I believe relationships are the core to good mental health and personal development. These issues are relevant to people of all ages, and not specific to gender, race or religion. The presenting symptom could be grief, anxiety, depression, arguments, irritability or any form of dysfunctional behaviour - the underlying issue has to be addressed.
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.
My name is Bridie Mills (he/him), I'm a counsellor and psychotherapist living and working in Naarm (Melbourne). I deeply value my position as a collaborator with and witness to those I work with and foster my own genuine presence and curiousity throughout my work, and find that from this stance, I am able to offer specific responses to what each person uniquely brings to therapy. In this process I draw upon a number of therapeutic approaches, including Focusing-Oriented Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy and Existential Therapy.
My name is Bridie Mills (he/him), I'm a counsellor and psychotherapist living and working in Naarm (Melbourne). I deeply value my position as a collaborator with and witness to those I work with and foster my own genuine presence and curiousity throughout my work, and find that from this stance, I am able to offer specific responses to what each person uniquely brings to therapy. In this process I draw upon a number of therapeutic approaches, including Focusing-Oriented Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy and Existential Therapy.
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.
There's a particular kind of tired that comes from holding it all together on the outside while everything underneath feels like it's barely keeping up. With this can come anxiety, overwhelm, rage, and maybe even a sense of having lost yourself somewhere along the way. I work with women across Cronulla and the Sutherland Shire, in person and online, supporting them to create space for what's been asking to be felt, and find their way back to feeling lighter, more resourced, and more in control. Reach out for a free 20-minute consultation
There's a particular kind of tired that comes from holding it all together on the outside while everything underneath feels like it's barely keeping up. With this can come anxiety, overwhelm, rage, and maybe even a sense of having lost yourself somewhere along the way. I work with women across Cronulla and the Sutherland Shire, in person and online, supporting them to create space for what's been asking to be felt, and find their way back to feeling lighter, more resourced, and more in control. Reach out for a free 20-minute consultation
Are you feeling stuck, like something important is missing from your life, but you can't quite put your finger on it? Do you find it challenging to have your emotional needs met in relationships? Are you trapped in repetitive patterns, struggling to define healthy boundaries? There is a reason behind these struggles, and together, we will uncover what is holding you back, providing you with the clarity and confidence needed to turn things around. I specialize in somatic therapy, an approach that dives deep into the core of unresolved trauma within the body, facilitating rapid healing.
Are you feeling stuck, like something important is missing from your life, but you can't quite put your finger on it? Do you find it challenging to have your emotional needs met in relationships? Are you trapped in repetitive patterns, struggling to define healthy boundaries? There is a reason behind these struggles, and together, we will uncover what is holding you back, providing you with the clarity and confidence needed to turn things around. I specialize in somatic therapy, an approach that dives deep into the core of unresolved trauma within the body, facilitating rapid healing.
As an experienced counsellor, approved by Victim Support NSW, I bring a wide range of knowledge and practical solutions to the Life Circle issues that cause us to feel unsettled and confused.
If you feel like that, I would love to help you find new ways to overcome those emotions and feelings, using them as your strengths for the future.
Unpacking sad and hurtful experiences in a safe place can be the doorway to a new life.
After working as a school counsellor and welfare worker in front-line services for many years, I am confident I am able to provide best practice strategies that will bring positive outcomes.
As an experienced counsellor, approved by Victim Support NSW, I bring a wide range of knowledge and practical solutions to the Life Circle issues that cause us to feel unsettled and confused.
If you feel like that, I would love to help you find new ways to overcome those emotions and feelings, using them as your strengths for the future.
Unpacking sad and hurtful experiences in a safe place can be the doorway to a new life.
After working as a school counsellor and welfare worker in front-line services for many years, I am confident I am able to provide best practice strategies that will bring positive outcomes.
You might look like you’re coping on the outside—but inside, it feels different.
Part of you pushes to stay in control, fix things, and keep it all together… while another part feels overwhelmed, anxious, or exhausted.
You may notice the same patterns repeating—overthinking, emotional reactions, or relationship tension—and no matter how hard you try, they don’t shift. There may also be older experiences or unresolved pain shaping how you feel and respond.
What you’re looking for is a sense of calm, clarity, and understanding—along with support to make sense of what’s happening inside and feel more grounded and at ease.
You might look like you’re coping on the outside—but inside, it feels different.
Part of you pushes to stay in control, fix things, and keep it all together… while another part feels overwhelmed, anxious, or exhausted.
You may notice the same patterns repeating—overthinking, emotional reactions, or relationship tension—and no matter how hard you try, they don’t shift. There may also be older experiences or unresolved pain shaping how you feel and respond.
What you’re looking for is a sense of calm, clarity, and understanding—along with support to make sense of what’s happening inside and feel more grounded and at ease.
Sabine is a qualified and accredited social worker and therapist passionate about helping individuals navigate life's challenges and achieve their fullest potential. In 2020, she completed her PhD in Social Work, which deepened her understanding of human behaviour, mental health, and the complex systems that impact our well-being. Throughout her career, she has worked with people from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. She follows evidence-based practice tailored to your circumstances to help you build resilience, develop coping strategies, and foster personal growth.
Sabine is a qualified and accredited social worker and therapist passionate about helping individuals navigate life's challenges and achieve their fullest potential. In 2020, she completed her PhD in Social Work, which deepened her understanding of human behaviour, mental health, and the complex systems that impact our well-being. Throughout her career, she has worked with people from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. She follows evidence-based practice tailored to your circumstances to help you build resilience, develop coping strategies, and foster personal growth.
My goal is to reduce the stigma around help seeking. I help people feel heard and validated by addressing issues like anxiety, depression, self-esteem, healing the inner child and attachment wounds, practising effective communication skills, changing careers and more. As a culturally and linguistically diverse therapist, I have a unique understanding of the challenges and difficulties many families face in Australia, I am here to help, guide and support. For your convenience I offer flexible hours (including evening and weekends) over video or phone. My approach is a mix of science and creativity.
My goal is to reduce the stigma around help seeking. I help people feel heard and validated by addressing issues like anxiety, depression, self-esteem, healing the inner child and attachment wounds, practising effective communication skills, changing careers and more. As a culturally and linguistically diverse therapist, I have a unique understanding of the challenges and difficulties many families face in Australia, I am here to help, guide and support. For your convenience I offer flexible hours (including evening and weekends) over video or phone. My approach is a mix of science and creativity.
Hi - I'm Sandra :) I'm a warm, open, compassionate and caring woman who in the role of counsellor, is here to support clients with their goals for therapy, and in their lives. It may be dealing with a relationship issue or breakup, or dealing with grief at the loss of someone or something, or experiencing anxiety, depression, stress or being diagnosed with a chronic illness or condition. These are just some of the things I work with clients on. I also work with children, to build them up from the inside so they feel confident dealing with life challenges, and with teenagers.
Hi - I'm Sandra :) I'm a warm, open, compassionate and caring woman who in the role of counsellor, is here to support clients with their goals for therapy, and in their lives. It may be dealing with a relationship issue or breakup, or dealing with grief at the loss of someone or something, or experiencing anxiety, depression, stress or being diagnosed with a chronic illness or condition. These are just some of the things I work with clients on. I also work with children, to build them up from the inside so they feel confident dealing with life challenges, and with teenagers.
With a wide knowledge and 20 years clinical experience I use evidence-based therapies personalised to your treatment goals. I work with clients of all ages on all manner of complex concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, troubled relationships, grief, loss & infertility. I provide psychological assessment and diagnostic services to those seeking to understand the nuances of ADHD, ASD, LD (dyslexia) and other developmental difficulties. My specialised training in mind body connection, hypnosis and nutrition complements treatment for those seeking a holistic approach.
With a wide knowledge and 20 years clinical experience I use evidence-based therapies personalised to your treatment goals. I work with clients of all ages on all manner of complex concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, troubled relationships, grief, loss & infertility. I provide psychological assessment and diagnostic services to those seeking to understand the nuances of ADHD, ASD, LD (dyslexia) and other developmental difficulties. My specialised training in mind body connection, hypnosis and nutrition complements treatment for those seeking a holistic approach.
See more therapy options for Sydney
Nearby Adoption Therapists Searches for Sydney
- Annandale
- Balmain
- Double Bay
- Edgecliff
- Glebe
- Leichhardt
- Newtown
- North Sydney
- Paddington
- Redfern
- Surry Hills
- Woollahra
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.