Addiction Psychologists and Therapists in Freshwater, NSW

Photo of Julie Anne Preston - Julie Preston Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Julie Preston Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Julie is an experienced Registered Psychologist with a strong background in substance and process addictions, PTSD and developmental trauma, relationships issues, mood disorders and eating disorders.
Julie’s philosophy is that recovery is possible and her goal is to empower clients to lead fulfilling, healthy lives by providing clients the right tools and support for their healing and personal growth.
Julie is an experienced Registered Psychologist with a strong background in substance and process addictions, PTSD and developmental trauma, relationships issues, mood disorders and eating disorders.
Julie’s philosophy is that recovery is possible and her goal is to empower clients to lead fulfilling, healthy lives by providing clients the right tools and support for their healing and personal growth.
(02) 9909 6171 View (02) 9909 6171
Photo of Oksana Pueschel, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Oksana Pueschel
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialise in addiction recovery, couples therapy and trauma.
Once you are willing to risk the emotional pain of making mistakes, you will shed more fear than you ever imagined. The best way to predict your future is to create it.
I specialise in addiction recovery, couples therapy and trauma.
Once you are willing to risk the emotional pain of making mistakes, you will shed more fear than you ever imagined. The best way to predict your future is to create it.
(02) 9100 0180 View (02) 9100 0180
Photo of Scout Smith-O'Leary - The Love Scout, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
The Love Scout
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
Whether it's communication issues, conflict, betrayal, infidelity, sex, trauma, separation, divorce, conflict, self-esteem, codependency, addiction, intimacy, attachment, ENM, family stuff or your relationship to yourself, I offer a down-to-earth therapeutic approach to help you develop awareness, gain clarity and leave with tools to feel more confident in how you navigate relationships moving forward.
5000+ clinical hours experience. Only 5 star reviews on google. 5 Years Outpatient therapist - South Pacific Private Treatment Centre
Whether it's communication issues, conflict, betrayal, infidelity, sex, trauma, separation, divorce, conflict, self-esteem, codependency, addiction, intimacy, attachment, ENM, family stuff or your relationship to yourself, I offer a down-to-earth therapeutic approach to help you develop awareness, gain clarity and leave with tools to feel more confident in how you navigate relationships moving forward.
5000+ clinical hours experience. Only 5 star reviews on google. 5 Years Outpatient therapist - South Pacific Private Treatment Centre
0481 531 555 View 0481 531 555
Photo of Christina Comely, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Christina Comely
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have extensive experience with mental health issues, alcohol and other drug addictions, depression and anxiety.
My thesis was on cannabis and mental health and this is an area I remain passionately interested in. I have presented at 17 national and international conferences on topics of cannabis and mental health, victims in the criminal justice system and religiously integrated CBT. See SetFreePsychology on Facebook.
I have extensive experience with mental health issues, alcohol and other drug addictions, depression and anxiety.
My thesis was on cannabis and mental health and this is an area I remain passionately interested in. I have presented at 17 national and international conferences on topics of cannabis and mental health, victims in the criminal justice system and religiously integrated CBT. See SetFreePsychology on Facebook.
(02) 9158 6630 View (02) 9158 6630
Photo of Elyse Green, Counsellor, PACFA
Elyse Green
Counsellor, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Freshwater, NSW 2096
Hello. My name's Elyse and I am a passionate holistic counsellor and psychotherapist here to support people in living their unique version of a meaningful and fulfilling life. People thrive when they have a sense of orientation, embrace both their inner and outer worlds, and feel they have the resources to manage the varying and unpredictable nature of life. The world can be loud with a plethora of external demands and advice, however being able to tune inwards and work with what is present, results in challenges being better understood and consciously navigated from a more integrated position.
Hello. My name's Elyse and I am a passionate holistic counsellor and psychotherapist here to support people in living their unique version of a meaningful and fulfilling life. People thrive when they have a sense of orientation, embrace both their inner and outer worlds, and feel they have the resources to manage the varying and unpredictable nature of life. The world can be loud with a plethora of external demands and advice, however being able to tune inwards and work with what is present, results in challenges being better understood and consciously navigated from a more integrated position.
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Photo of Sasha Milos - HERE4U Counselling & Psychotherapy, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
HERE4U Counselling & Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
1 Endorsed
Freshwater, NSW 2096
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.
(02) 8403 1338 View (02) 8403 1338
Photo of Brendan McNicholas, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Brendan McNicholas
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming. Anxiety, stress, relationship difficulties, low mood, workplace pressures, or major life changes can leave you feeling stuck and unsure of how to move forward. You do not have to navigate these challenges alone. I am a warm, compassionate, and experienced psychologist who provides a safe and supportive space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered. I believe strong therapeutic relationships are the foundation for meaningful change, and I work collaboratively with clients to better understand their experiences, develop practical strategies, and improve emotional wellbeing.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming. Anxiety, stress, relationship difficulties, low mood, workplace pressures, or major life changes can leave you feeling stuck and unsure of how to move forward. You do not have to navigate these challenges alone. I am a warm, compassionate, and experienced psychologist who provides a safe and supportive space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered. I believe strong therapeutic relationships are the foundation for meaningful change, and I work collaboratively with clients to better understand their experiences, develop practical strategies, and improve emotional wellbeing.
0450 337 544 x61 View 0450 337 544 x61
Photo of Katrina Helene, Psychotherapist, MA, AMHSW
Katrina Helene
Psychotherapist, MA, AMHSW
Serves Area
I have over 20 years experience counselling teens, adults and couples in different clinical settings ( alcohol and other drugs, trauma).
Feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, experienced trauma? Maybe you feel shutdown, on edge, have anger, or your emotions jump from 0-100 in a second. Or perhaps you're having relationship/other issues. With 20+ years’ counselling experience, I bring a wealth of knowhow plus a gamut of tools & strategies to help you. If you're in a tough patch & just talking isn't changing things, an experienced therapist with years of experience can help navigate it all to bring peace & resolution. Someone warm, incisive, calm, with a good ear, & who is highly skilled to work with the issues at hand, will get you there. I will bring just that.
I have over 20 years experience counselling teens, adults and couples in different clinical settings ( alcohol and other drugs, trauma).
Feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, experienced trauma? Maybe you feel shutdown, on edge, have anger, or your emotions jump from 0-100 in a second. Or perhaps you're having relationship/other issues. With 20+ years’ counselling experience, I bring a wealth of knowhow plus a gamut of tools & strategies to help you. If you're in a tough patch & just talking isn't changing things, an experienced therapist with years of experience can help navigate it all to bring peace & resolution. Someone warm, incisive, calm, with a good ear, & who is highly skilled to work with the issues at hand, will get you there. I will bring just that.
(02) 8403 1758 View (02) 8403 1758
Photo of Karin Stenberg, Counsellor, PACFA
Karin Stenberg
Counsellor, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Whether you're seeking support reaching your dreams or are struggling with the many pains of life, such as conflict, depression, anxiety, or grief & loss - counselling can be of real help. There's something very powerful in telling your story in the presence of someone who will listen deeply, accept everything that you are, and help you gain a new perspective. Together we will create a safe platform for change, growth and healing. For individuals and couples.
Whether you're seeking support reaching your dreams or are struggling with the many pains of life, such as conflict, depression, anxiety, or grief & loss - counselling can be of real help. There's something very powerful in telling your story in the presence of someone who will listen deeply, accept everything that you are, and help you gain a new perspective. Together we will create a safe platform for change, growth and healing. For individuals and couples.
(02) 9100 0248 View (02) 9100 0248
Photo of Jodie Gale, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Jodie Gale
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
You may look like you’re coping, but inside you feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or not good enough. You might turn to food for comfort, control, or relief, then feel shame, guilt, or self-criticism afterwards. Many of the women I work with carry the impact of early trauma, emotional neglect, or difficult mother–daughter relationships that continue to shape how they feel about themselves. Some feel stuck in patterns they don’t understand, while others are quietly asking, “who am I, really?” and longing for a deeper, more meaningful connection with themselves, their body, and their inner world.
You may look like you’re coping, but inside you feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or not good enough. You might turn to food for comfort, control, or relief, then feel shame, guilt, or self-criticism afterwards. Many of the women I work with carry the impact of early trauma, emotional neglect, or difficult mother–daughter relationships that continue to shape how they feel about themselves. Some feel stuck in patterns they don’t understand, while others are quietly asking, “who am I, really?” and longing for a deeper, more meaningful connection with themselves, their body, and their inner world.
(02) 8294 7627 View (02) 8294 7627
Photo of Robyn Price, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Robyn Price
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
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 Tori McCarthy, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Tori McCarthy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
I have extensive experience working in the field of Addiction and Trauma and believe whole heartedly that recovery is possible.
I also run regular women’s and men’s circles, workshops for couples and individuals, along with group therapy.
I have extensive experience working in the field of Addiction and Trauma and believe whole heartedly that recovery is possible.
I also run regular women’s and men’s circles, workshops for couples and individuals, along with group therapy.
(02) 8403 1332 View (02) 8403 1332
Photo of Kelvin Chambers, Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Kelvin Chambers
Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Serves Area
I have a special interest in neurodivergence. I believe that interventions that foster positivity and calm help people attain the best versions of themselves. I apply a solution focused model to equip people with effective strategies to manage their deepest challenges. I look for growth and opportunity for everybody.
I have a special interest in neurodivergence. I believe that interventions that foster positivity and calm help people attain the best versions of themselves. I apply a solution focused model to equip people with effective strategies to manage their deepest challenges. I look for growth and opportunity for everybody.
(02) 8403 1420 View (02) 8403 1420
Photo of Samantha Goldrick, Social Worker, AMHSW
Samantha Goldrick
Social Worker, AMHSW
Online Only
As I work with clients who may be struggling with mood, addiction and behaviour-related concerns as it relates to a trauma history or historical concerns.
My name is Samantha, I'm an experienced counsellor and accredited Mental Health Social Worker. My work focuses on supporting adults who are feeling exhausted, stuck or overwhelmed by carrying the impacts of relational trauma and how it has shaped your relationship with yourself, others and your sense of safety in the world. Many clients I work with have experienced trauma in some form and are often burnt out by the demands of life in survival mode. I help clients to feel more grounded and connected, better understand their experiences and reduce feelings of shame and self-blame so they can live with greater ease and choice.
As I work with clients who may be struggling with mood, addiction and behaviour-related concerns as it relates to a trauma history or historical concerns.
My name is Samantha, I'm an experienced counsellor and accredited Mental Health Social Worker. My work focuses on supporting adults who are feeling exhausted, stuck or overwhelmed by carrying the impacts of relational trauma and how it has shaped your relationship with yourself, others and your sense of safety in the world. Many clients I work with have experienced trauma in some form and are often burnt out by the demands of life in survival mode. I help clients to feel more grounded and connected, better understand their experiences and reduce feelings of shame and self-blame so they can live with greater ease and choice.
0455 829 809 View 0455 829 809
Photo of Rachel Ainge, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Rachel Ainge
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Rachel has supported couples, individuals and families facing a wide range of challenges, including chemical and behavioural addictions, anxiety, depression, stress, compulsive behaviours, complex PTSD, and dual diagnoses.
Rachel is a warm and empathetic psychotherapist who provides a supportive, non-judgmental space for clients to heal, grow, and reconnect with themselves. With extensive clinical experience across private psychiatric settings, Rachel meets each client exactly where they are, offering compassion and insight to guide their journey toward lasting change.
Rachel has supported couples, individuals and families facing a wide range of challenges, including chemical and behavioural addictions, anxiety, depression, stress, compulsive behaviours, complex PTSD, and dual diagnoses.
Rachel is a warm and empathetic psychotherapist who provides a supportive, non-judgmental space for clients to heal, grow, and reconnect with themselves. With extensive clinical experience across private psychiatric settings, Rachel meets each client exactly where they are, offering compassion and insight to guide their journey toward lasting change.

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Christine Hughes, Counsellor, PACFA
Christine Hughes
Counsellor, PACFA
Brookvale, NSW 2100
- If you are struggling with Mental Health (Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Mood Disorders, ADHD) - Addictions ( Drugs, Alcohol, Gambling, Sex, Gaming, Work and Eating Disorders) - Trauma (Childhood Physical, Emotional and Sexual Abuse) - Grief and Loss (Unresolved Grief and Empty Chair Work Therapy) - Co-Dependency in Relationships (Conflict, Boundaries and Communication Issues) then I have the skill set to help you overcome these challenges if you are willing to do the work.
As a counsellor I offer a safe and non judgemental space to support client's to be vulnerable, process trauma, work through life challenges and build a toolbox of support skills to enhance healthy self-esteem, boundaries, emotional regulation, assertive communication, relapse prevention and healthy relationships to achieve meaningful change and self-agency.
- If you are struggling with Mental Health (Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Mood Disorders, ADHD) - Addictions ( Drugs, Alcohol, Gambling, Sex, Gaming, Work and Eating Disorders) - Trauma (Childhood Physical, Emotional and Sexual Abuse) - Grief and Loss (Unresolved Grief and Empty Chair Work Therapy) - Co-Dependency in Relationships (Conflict, Boundaries and Communication Issues) then I have the skill set to help you overcome these challenges if you are willing to do the work.
As a counsellor I offer a safe and non judgemental space to support client's to be vulnerable, process trauma, work through life challenges and build a toolbox of support skills to enhance healthy self-esteem, boundaries, emotional regulation, assertive communication, relapse prevention and healthy relationships to achieve meaningful change and self-agency.
(02) 8403 1536 View (02) 8403 1536
Photo of Nina Vucetic, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Nina Vucetic
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Woolloomooloo, NSW 2011
I am a PACFA Registered Psychotherapist specialising in Relationship Issues, Trauma, Addiction and Anxiety.
I’m a trauma-informed psychotherapist with over a decade of experience. I’ve worked in private rehab settings as a group therapist and supported people navigating addiction, mood challenges, relationships and big life transitions. These days, I primarily work with adults and couples who want to deepen their relationships—with others and with themselves
I am a PACFA Registered Psychotherapist specialising in Relationship Issues, Trauma, Addiction and Anxiety.
I’m a trauma-informed psychotherapist with over a decade of experience. I’ve worked in private rehab settings as a group therapist and supported people navigating addiction, mood challenges, relationships and big life transitions. These days, I primarily work with adults and couples who want to deepen their relationships—with others and with themselves
(02) 9100 0689 View (02) 9100 0689
Photo of Paul Jessop, Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
Paul Jessop
Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
Petersham, NSW 2049
I am passionate about helping people through depression, anxiety, mood disorders and addiction.
My approach is holistic and integrative utilising a toolbox of healing and therapeutic modalities, drawing on my many years of experience of practice, study, working in the corporate world, as well as my own life experience of healing and self-exploration.
I am passionate about helping people through depression, anxiety, mood disorders and addiction.
My approach is holistic and integrative utilising a toolbox of healing and therapeutic modalities, drawing on my many years of experience of practice, study, working in the corporate world, as well as my own life experience of healing and self-exploration.
(02) 8000 1695 View (02) 8000 1695
Photo of Jonathan Righetti, Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Jonathan Righetti
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Norwest, NSW 2153
For me, the heart of therapy is building a real, human connection. I like to keep the process authentic and, at times, a little unconventional—because no two people are the same, and neither is the way we work together. My role is to offer compassion, understanding, and steady support as we navigate whatever life is throwing your way. I believe in focusing on what’s gone right in your life—your wins, your strengths, and the moments you’ve already overcome—rather than only looking at setbacks. Every experience, whether uplifting or challenging, shapes who you are and can be a stepping stone toward who you want to become.
For me, the heart of therapy is building a real, human connection. I like to keep the process authentic and, at times, a little unconventional—because no two people are the same, and neither is the way we work together. My role is to offer compassion, understanding, and steady support as we navigate whatever life is throwing your way. I believe in focusing on what’s gone right in your life—your wins, your strengths, and the moments you’ve already overcome—rather than only looking at setbacks. Every experience, whether uplifting or challenging, shapes who you are and can be a stepping stone toward who you want to become.
(02) 7804 4773 View (02) 7804 4773
Photo of Rachel Gordon, Psychotherapist, MPsych, PACFA
Rachel Gordon
Psychotherapist, MPsych, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Cammeray, NSW 2062
I specialise in addiction, anxiety, substance dependence, relationships, grief and loss.
I believe that as human beings our vulnerabilities can often become our greatest strengths. My mission is to walk beside my clients in a heart centred, trauma informed, holistic way while helping them to rediscover their authentic self, find purpose and have meaningful, fulfilling relationships.
I specialise in addiction, anxiety, substance dependence, relationships, grief and loss.
I believe that as human beings our vulnerabilities can often become our greatest strengths. My mission is to walk beside my clients in a heart centred, trauma informed, holistic way while helping them to rediscover their authentic self, find purpose and have meaningful, fulfilling relationships.
(02) 9100 0864 View (02) 9100 0864

See more therapy options for Freshwater

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.