Addiction Counselling in Crows Nest, NSW

Photo of Heath Gerrard, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Heath Gerrard
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Online Only
The following quote continues to resonate and inspire me: ‘I think the most beautiful thing in the world is watching the light come back on in someone’s eyes when they have been lost in the dark for so long.’ The light slowly returned to my eyes when I embarked on my own recovery journey over 12 years ago. The unexpected gift that emerged from the struggle was a passion for this transformative process and helping guide others out of the darkness. I am a Registered Counsellor and have worked at treatment centers throughout Australia over the last 11 years, most recently at South Pacific Private in Sydney for 6.5 years.
The following quote continues to resonate and inspire me: ‘I think the most beautiful thing in the world is watching the light come back on in someone’s eyes when they have been lost in the dark for so long.’ The light slowly returned to my eyes when I embarked on my own recovery journey over 12 years ago. The unexpected gift that emerged from the struggle was a passion for this transformative process and helping guide others out of the darkness. I am a Registered Counsellor and have worked at treatment centers throughout Australia over the last 11 years, most recently at South Pacific Private in Sydney for 6.5 years.
(02) 9159 3729 View (02) 9159 3729
Photo of Gaia Maestri, Counsellor, PACFA
Gaia Maestri
Counsellor, PACFA
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
I help people to recover from substance abuse issues, trauma, depression, anxiety and life transitions.
I tailor my approach to each individual client, as I am sensitive to the complexity of human nature and the fact that each person comes with different needs and is at a different stage of life and self awareness. I have a relational approach and practice Schema Therapy, along with CBT, ACT , Mindfulness Based CBT and EMDR for the treatment of trauma and PTSD
I help people to recover from substance abuse issues, trauma, depression, anxiety and life transitions.
I tailor my approach to each individual client, as I am sensitive to the complexity of human nature and the fact that each person comes with different needs and is at a different stage of life and self awareness. I have a relational approach and practice Schema Therapy, along with CBT, ACT , Mindfulness Based CBT and EMDR for the treatment of trauma and PTSD
(02) 9538 7002 View (02) 9538 7002
Photo of Jackson Goding - Jackson Goding - Find Reason Therapy, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Jackson Goding - Find Reason Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
3 Endorsed
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
I work closely with codependency, substance use and behavioural addictions with my experience working at South Pacific Private Hospital
Do you ever struggle with how you see yourself and how you show up in relationships? Is something getting in the way of allowing you to meet your needs and connect with others? There is a road to finding value in yourself and an ability to be in healthy relationships when you take the step to put yourself first, increase your awareness and address your concerns. Find Reason Therapy creates a safe space to help you find the whole unique you with worth, values, and needs, guiding you to connect to stuck emotional pain in order to live a life with purpose and meaning.
I work closely with codependency, substance use and behavioural addictions with my experience working at South Pacific Private Hospital
Do you ever struggle with how you see yourself and how you show up in relationships? Is something getting in the way of allowing you to meet your needs and connect with others? There is a road to finding value in yourself and an ability to be in healthy relationships when you take the step to put yourself first, increase your awareness and address your concerns. Find Reason Therapy creates a safe space to help you find the whole unique you with worth, values, and needs, guiding you to connect to stuck emotional pain in order to live a life with purpose and meaning.
(02) 9100 0013 View (02) 9100 0013
Photo of Sarah Bays, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Sarah Bays
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
I've worked in large NGOs, with multi-disciplinary teams, in small grass roots organisations and in private practice providing therapeutic support to people with complex mental health, trauma, addiction, relationship issues & family conflict.
Want to create the life you want and reach your potential? Could you do with a little help to solve your problems? Need some support to fast track some of your goals? Well that's what I'm all about! I'm an experienced counsellor and psychotherapist and I work from a trauma-informed and client-led perspective. I'm kind but direct when needed, and support in a solutions focused manner. I love to laugh, and enjoy helping people work through challenges and achieve their goals. I'm a certified DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy) practitioner and run DBT Skills groups or individual DBT sessions in person & online.
I've worked in large NGOs, with multi-disciplinary teams, in small grass roots organisations and in private practice providing therapeutic support to people with complex mental health, trauma, addiction, relationship issues & family conflict.
Want to create the life you want and reach your potential? Could you do with a little help to solve your problems? Need some support to fast track some of your goals? Well that's what I'm all about! I'm an experienced counsellor and psychotherapist and I work from a trauma-informed and client-led perspective. I'm kind but direct when needed, and support in a solutions focused manner. I love to laugh, and enjoy helping people work through challenges and achieve their goals. I'm a certified DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy) practitioner and run DBT Skills groups or individual DBT sessions in person & online.
(02) 9100 0134 View (02) 9100 0134
Photo of Oksana Pueschel, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Oksana Pueschel
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
Neurofeedback Practioner NeurOptimal is a type of neurofeedback system designed to promote overall brain health and wellness. It's based on the principles of dynamical neurofeedback, which involves monitoring and providing feedback to the brain in real-time about its own activity patterns. Benefits: NeurOptimal is often used to promote relaxation, reduce stress, improve focus and concentration, enhance sleep quality, and support overall mental well-being. Some users also report improvements in symptoms related to conditions such as anxiety, ADHD, depression, and PTSD.
Neurofeedback Practioner NeurOptimal is a type of neurofeedback system designed to promote overall brain health and wellness. It's based on the principles of dynamical neurofeedback, which involves monitoring and providing feedback to the brain in real-time about its own activity patterns. Benefits: NeurOptimal is often used to promote relaxation, reduce stress, improve focus and concentration, enhance sleep quality, and support overall mental well-being. Some users also report improvements in symptoms related to conditions such as anxiety, ADHD, depression, and PTSD.
(02) 9100 0180 View (02) 9100 0180
Photo of James Norman O'Connor - Clear Day Counselling and Coaching Services, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Clear Day Counselling and Coaching Services
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Serves Area
Do you struggle with drugs and or alcohol use problems?
We practice positive psychology. Our strategies are all focused on helping you get more out of life and living whilst simultaneously helping you with managing your symptoms. Our aim is to identify the root causes of your problems and concerns. Eliminating causes rather than symptoms we aim to help you get your enthusiasm for life and living back
Do you struggle with drugs and or alcohol use problems?
We practice positive psychology. Our strategies are all focused on helping you get more out of life and living whilst simultaneously helping you with managing your symptoms. Our aim is to identify the root causes of your problems and concerns. Eliminating causes rather than symptoms we aim to help you get your enthusiasm for life and living back
(02) 9100 0799 View (02) 9100 0799
Photo of Daniel Brightwell, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Daniel Brightwell
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
I help people struggling with addictions such as pornography, alcohol, gambling, gaming, and social media regain control, reduce shame, and rebuild meaningful lives.
I use ACT and CBT, alongside Schema Therapy and CFT, to help you build awareness of your thoughts, feelings, and habits, challenge unhelpful patterns, and develop psychological flexibility. Together, we take steps toward a meaningful life guided by your values, rather than fear, shame, or obligation.
I help people struggling with addictions such as pornography, alcohol, gambling, gaming, and social media regain control, reduce shame, and rebuild meaningful lives.
I use ACT and CBT, alongside Schema Therapy and CFT, to help you build awareness of your thoughts, feelings, and habits, challenge unhelpful patterns, and develop psychological flexibility. Together, we take steps toward a meaningful life guided by your values, rather than fear, shame, or obligation.
(02) 8000 1158 View (02) 8000 1158
Photo of Andrew McPherson, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Andrew McPherson
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
As a clinical psychologist I treat adolescents and adults with a wide range of mental health issues including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and addiction.
Whilst treating a wide range of issues I've worked in mental health settings as both a psychologist and psychiatric nurse in inpatient and outpatient hospital treatment for over 15 years. I’ve presented at national conferences and published research on attitudes to alcohol amongst people with an alcohol use disorder in international peer-reviewed journals.
As a clinical psychologist I treat adolescents and adults with a wide range of mental health issues including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and addiction.
Whilst treating a wide range of issues I've worked in mental health settings as both a psychologist and psychiatric nurse in inpatient and outpatient hospital treatment for over 15 years. I’ve presented at national conferences and published research on attitudes to alcohol amongst people with an alcohol use disorder in international peer-reviewed journals.
(02) 9100 0856 View (02) 9100 0856
Photo of James Norman O'Connor, Psychotherapist, MPsych, ACA-L4
James Norman O'Connor
Psychotherapist, MPsych, ACA-L4
Serves Area
Hi I'm Jim O'Connor clinical psychotherapist and relationship therapist. I help people overcome the challenges they face in their relationships. If you're someone who is single and wishing to get into a relationship but you don't know how to find the right person, then I can help. If your in a relationship and you want to create more connection, I can show you how. If you're in an abusive relationship and you don't know if you should leave or stay I can help you decide and I will support you what ever you decide. If it has anything to do with dating or relating in the modern world I can help.
Hi I'm Jim O'Connor clinical psychotherapist and relationship therapist. I help people overcome the challenges they face in their relationships. If you're someone who is single and wishing to get into a relationship but you don't know how to find the right person, then I can help. If your in a relationship and you want to create more connection, I can show you how. If you're in an abusive relationship and you don't know if you should leave or stay I can help you decide and I will support you what ever you decide. If it has anything to do with dating or relating in the modern world I can help.
(02) 9100 0073 View (02) 9100 0073
Photo of Robyn Price, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Robyn Price
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
Also a credentialed eating disorders clinician, trained in somatic psychotherapy and the treatment of addictions, trauma and dementia.
Are you constantly anxious? Stuck or struggling with relationships? No idea how to move on? My name's Robyn and I'm a Gestalt Psychotherapist and Somatic Movement/Dance Movement Therapist with 17 years' experience working with groups and individuals. A deep knowledge of body process and nonverbal communication allows me to attend to the whole of a person's experience, rather than just what they say. I take a relational, creative and trauma-informed approach, and tailor it for every person or group I work with.
Also a credentialed eating disorders clinician, trained in somatic psychotherapy and the treatment of addictions, trauma and dementia.
Are you constantly anxious? Stuck or struggling with relationships? No idea how to move on? My name's Robyn and I'm a Gestalt Psychotherapist and Somatic Movement/Dance Movement Therapist with 17 years' experience working with groups and individuals. A deep knowledge of body process and nonverbal communication allows me to attend to the whole of a person's experience, rather than just what they say. I take a relational, creative and trauma-informed approach, and tailor it for every person or group I work with.
(02) 9100 0771 View (02) 9100 0771
Photo of Nina Thompson, Counsellor, PACFA
Nina Thompson
Counsellor, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
​I have experience working with the following: anxiety / overwhelm / depression / trauma / relationship issues / disordered eating / OCD / addiction recovery and general life challenges,
Using a range of techniques and a compassionate, tailored approach, I guide clients to understand themselves better and love themselves more. ​I aim to foster trust, authenticity, and a genuine partnership on your path to healing, resilience and well-being.
​I have experience working with the following: anxiety / overwhelm / depression / trauma / relationship issues / disordered eating / OCD / addiction recovery and general life challenges,
Using a range of techniques and a compassionate, tailored approach, I guide clients to understand themselves better and love themselves more. ​I aim to foster trust, authenticity, and a genuine partnership on your path to healing, resilience and well-being.
(02) 9100 0186 View (02) 9100 0186
Photo of Scott Whiteway, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Scott Whiteway
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
Using this approach I can work with you to resolve challenges including anxiety, depression, stress, personal confidence, loss and grief, chronic illnesses, drug & alcohol, relationships, career challenges and life balance.
Hello! I help people resolve personal challenges and mental health issues quickly and effectively. With over 20 years experience successfully providing psychological treatment I develop strong collaborative relationships to get results. I will work with you to identify and achieve your best self. No matter what your life situation or challenges are, together we can determine a plan on how to successfully achieve clarity, a positive mindset and resolve your personal challenges.
Using this approach I can work with you to resolve challenges including anxiety, depression, stress, personal confidence, loss and grief, chronic illnesses, drug & alcohol, relationships, career challenges and life balance.
Hello! I help people resolve personal challenges and mental health issues quickly and effectively. With over 20 years experience successfully providing psychological treatment I develop strong collaborative relationships to get results. I will work with you to identify and achieve your best self. No matter what your life situation or challenges are, together we can determine a plan on how to successfully achieve clarity, a positive mindset and resolve your personal challenges.
(02) 8074 5252 View (02) 8074 5252
Photo of Kristy-Lee Ferry, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Kristy-Lee Ferry
Psychotherapist, PACFA
6 Endorsed
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, trauma, relationships, sex, sexuality, addiction, trust, boundaries, or the courage to express your needs, we’ll explore why.
I am a Trauma Informed Somatic Psychotherapist and Counsellor. I specialise in: •Relationships - divorce, codependency, infidelity, ethical non-monogamy, domestic abuse. •Sexuality - empowerment, diversity, identity, fetishes and kinks. • Addiction •Trauma, anxiety, stress, childhood, attachment. •Meditation and the mind-body connection.
Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, trauma, relationships, sex, sexuality, addiction, trust, boundaries, or the courage to express your needs, we’ll explore why.
I am a Trauma Informed Somatic Psychotherapist and Counsellor. I specialise in: •Relationships - divorce, codependency, infidelity, ethical non-monogamy, domestic abuse. •Sexuality - empowerment, diversity, identity, fetishes and kinks. • Addiction •Trauma, anxiety, stress, childhood, attachment. •Meditation and the mind-body connection.
(02) 9100 0218 View (02) 9100 0218
Photo of Anna Rostosky, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Anna Rostosky
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
I work with adults navigating complex grief, neurodivergent identity, and life transitions. My clients include women who lost their mothers young, late-diagnosed autistic or ADHD adults, carers, people facing anticipatory grief or end-of-life decisions. I also work with expats navigating identity, distance, and disconnection—often layered over deeper grief. Whether you’re dealing with a long-ago loss, sudden emotional shutdown, or anticipatory grief, our work will start where you are. I tailor support to neurodivergent needs—recognising sensory sensitivities, executive dysfunction, and different ways of processing emotion.
I work with adults navigating complex grief, neurodivergent identity, and life transitions. My clients include women who lost their mothers young, late-diagnosed autistic or ADHD adults, carers, people facing anticipatory grief or end-of-life decisions. I also work with expats navigating identity, distance, and disconnection—often layered over deeper grief. Whether you’re dealing with a long-ago loss, sudden emotional shutdown, or anticipatory grief, our work will start where you are. I tailor support to neurodivergent needs—recognising sensory sensitivities, executive dysfunction, and different ways of processing emotion.
(02) 9100 0925 View (02) 9100 0925
Photo of Archana Waller, Counsellor, PACFA
Archana Waller
Counsellor, PACFA
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
I am an accredited psychotherapist and counsellor with over 10 years of experience providing psychological care to individuals, parents & couples in Sydney's Lower North Shore. Holding a Master’s degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy, I have also undertaken extensive postgraduate psychotherapy training. I am a Clinical Member of the Psychotherapist and Counsellors Federation of Australia (PACFA) and an eating disorder practitioner. I am committed to providing compassionate, client-centered care, working with adults navigating interpersonal challenges, unresolved trauma, stress, and anxiety.
I am an accredited psychotherapist and counsellor with over 10 years of experience providing psychological care to individuals, parents & couples in Sydney's Lower North Shore. Holding a Master’s degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy, I have also undertaken extensive postgraduate psychotherapy training. I am a Clinical Member of the Psychotherapist and Counsellors Federation of Australia (PACFA) and an eating disorder practitioner. I am committed to providing compassionate, client-centered care, working with adults navigating interpersonal challenges, unresolved trauma, stress, and anxiety.
0407 700 814 View 0407 700 814
Photo of Leo Martyn - Leo Martyn - Azure Counselling Crows Nest, Social Worker, AMHSW
I've been around a while, practicing as a counsellor and social worker on the lower north shore for over 16 years. Holding 2 post-graduate qualifications, I'm a highly experienced clinician who is a member of the ACA (Level 4) and an Accredited Social Worker. I work locally and nationally with a diverse client base from couples in conflict to emergency first responders. I love to meet clients from all walks of life to see how I can best support your growth, transformation and insight around whatever is challenging you now. Looking forward to meeting you at my friendly and cozy practice space conveniently located near the new metro.
I've been around a while, practicing as a counsellor and social worker on the lower north shore for over 16 years. Holding 2 post-graduate qualifications, I'm a highly experienced clinician who is a member of the ACA (Level 4) and an Accredited Social Worker. I work locally and nationally with a diverse client base from couples in conflict to emergency first responders. I love to meet clients from all walks of life to see how I can best support your growth, transformation and insight around whatever is challenging you now. Looking forward to meeting you at my friendly and cozy practice space conveniently located near the new metro.
(02) 8806 0384 View (02) 8806 0384
Photo of Jonathan Holman, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Jonathan Holman
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
My life experience has equipped me to help others experiencing depression, addiction and social isolation issues.
Today, many men are confused about our role and relevance in society. A clear sense of manhood, is I believe, critical to healthy relationships between men and women; men and other men; and obviously men as parents. I believe that my personal experiences are relevant here. Over many years, as parent, partner, friend and colleague, I have learned from my many mistakes and now feel that in a non-judgmental and collaborative way, I have something to offer both men and women in this regard. I believe that therapy is the best way to find out about oneself, that we are all unique and that each person’s life pathway is intensely personal
My life experience has equipped me to help others experiencing depression, addiction and social isolation issues.
Today, many men are confused about our role and relevance in society. A clear sense of manhood, is I believe, critical to healthy relationships between men and women; men and other men; and obviously men as parents. I believe that my personal experiences are relevant here. Over many years, as parent, partner, friend and colleague, I have learned from my many mistakes and now feel that in a non-judgmental and collaborative way, I have something to offer both men and women in this regard. I believe that therapy is the best way to find out about oneself, that we are all unique and that each person’s life pathway is intensely personal
(02) 9100 0030 View (02) 9100 0030
Photo of Harry Bechara, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Harry Bechara
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
Harry is an integrative Psychotherapist & Counsellor with a passion for mental health and wellbeing. He draws on a range of therapeutic modalities which he tailors to individual needs. Harry meets clients with a warm and empathic presence and understands every person’s story is unique. He has an interest in early attachment trauma and its impact on the nervous system and adult relationships. Harry believes in peoples innate potential to grow from adversity and transform their lives - he is passionate about helping clients engage in this process.
Harry is an integrative Psychotherapist & Counsellor with a passion for mental health and wellbeing. He draws on a range of therapeutic modalities which he tailors to individual needs. Harry meets clients with a warm and empathic presence and understands every person’s story is unique. He has an interest in early attachment trauma and its impact on the nervous system and adult relationships. Harry believes in peoples innate potential to grow from adversity and transform their lives - he is passionate about helping clients engage in this process.
(02) 9100 0568 View (02) 9100 0568
Photo of Uri Auerbach, Counsellor
Uri Auerbach
Counsellor
2 Endorsed
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
I can offer you a compassionate, supportive relationship in which to understand your history and explore aspects of your inner world that underlie many mood disorders, anxiety, depression, C-PTSD, addictions and relationship difficulties.
I work at South Pacific Private, Australia's leading treatment centre, and see private clients online. I am a registered member of the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia. My approach is trauma-informed, person-centred,and attachment-focused, which means you will always have my unconditional attention and support.
I can offer you a compassionate, supportive relationship in which to understand your history and explore aspects of your inner world that underlie many mood disorders, anxiety, depression, C-PTSD, addictions and relationship difficulties.
I work at South Pacific Private, Australia's leading treatment centre, and see private clients online. I am a registered member of the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia. My approach is trauma-informed, person-centred,and attachment-focused, which means you will always have my unconditional attention and support.
(02) 9100 0655 View (02) 9100 0655
Photo of Dr Trish Richards Richards - Dr Trish Richards: IFS Somatic (OmniTherapy), Psychotherapist, PACFA
Dr Trish Richards: IFS Somatic (OmniTherapy)
Psychotherapist, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
I am an IFS informed, Clinical Somatic Psychotherapist. I work with domestic and international clients (individuals and couples), many of whom are neurodiverse. I support my clients to achieve their goals, they are amazing in their passion for self-discovery; they are not broken needing to be fixed - they just need their parts witnessed in a confidential and trusting space. I approach the sessions with embodiment and listening to the unspoken, as together my clients and I navigate to understand their parts. The therapy rooms are on the national park so my clients can nature bath prior to their session.
I am an IFS informed, Clinical Somatic Psychotherapist. I work with domestic and international clients (individuals and couples), many of whom are neurodiverse. I support my clients to achieve their goals, they are amazing in their passion for self-discovery; they are not broken needing to be fixed - they just need their parts witnessed in a confidential and trusting space. I approach the sessions with embodiment and listening to the unspoken, as together my clients and I navigate to understand their parts. The therapy rooms are on the national park so my clients can nature bath prior to their session.
(02) 9158 6072 View (02) 9158 6072

See more therapy options for Crows Nest

Addiction Therapists

What is the best therapy for addiction?

Addiction treatment will be tailored to the individual. People seeking help for addiction—whether with a psychotherapist, in an outpatient clinic, or in a residential program—should expect to engage in multiple types of treatments, sometimes including medication. For anyone recovering from addiction, avoiding situations in which one has typically used a substance is essential, as is the support of close connections. Since substance use disorders tend to co-occur with underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression, those must also be addressed as part of any recovery plan.

How long does therapy for addiction take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from addiction. Patients and their families should expect the work to last several months, if not longer. Residential treatment programs may be based on a stay of 30, 60, or 90 days, with continuing work after release, but only about 1 percent of people are treated in such facilities. Ceasing use is just the first step; therapy to help maintain abstinence and effect behavior change must follow. The process of recovery, neuroscience has shown, involves brain cells recovering the capacity to respond to natural sources of reward and restore control over the impulse to use. Another definition of recovery is restoring voluntary control over one’s substance use and retaking all of one’s previous responsibilities.

How effective is drug addiction treatment?

Substance use disorders are treatable and remission is achievable for many who seek recovery; by some estimates, more than three-quarters of people who become addicted to alcohol or drugs recover. But that success rarely occurs quickly or on a set timeline; relapse is not only common, but many therapists and clinicians view it as a normal part of the process—not always a sign that a person has returned to addiction, but a signal that their treatment should be adjusted to help them regain control. Overall, research suggests, five years after the end of substance use, one’s risk of relapse is no greater than that of others who had not faced addiction. Other experts believe that complete abstinence is not the only measure of recovery, and that, through effective treatment, many people can learn to control their use.

How can you get addiction treatment for someone?

The most important factor in recovery from addiction is widely understood to be an individual’s commitment to change. For that reason,“interventions” in which friends and family gather to urge or force someone to begin immediate treatment often backfire; even when such efforts do lead someone to begin treatment, they may be less likely to stay than those who are self-driven. Still, family members can play an important role in supporting an individual who seeks help and can take part in family therapy as one element of a loved one’s treatment.