Alcohol Use Psychologists and Therapists in Freshwater, NSW

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 Christina Comely, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Christina Comely
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a psychologist working on the Northern Beaches in Sydney. I offer CBT based therapy including BULK BILLING with a Mental Health Plan from a GP for clients on CentreLink or otherwise financially limited. I also offer Religiously integrated CBT(RCBT) for clients who have a Christian or Jewish faith and want to use it as a strength in therapy. I have extensive experience with mental health issues, alcohol and other drug addictions, depression and anxiety. See Fb @SetFreePsychology for more.
I am a psychologist working on the Northern Beaches in Sydney. I offer CBT based therapy including BULK BILLING with a Mental Health Plan from a GP for clients on CentreLink or otherwise financially limited. I also offer Religiously integrated CBT(RCBT) for clients who have a Christian or Jewish faith and want to use it as a strength in therapy. I have extensive experience with mental health issues, alcohol and other drug addictions, depression and anxiety. See Fb @SetFreePsychology for more.
(02) 9158 6630 View (02) 9158 6630
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 Dorian Richards - Dorian Richards Consultant Psychologist, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Dorian Richards Consultant Psychologist
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Dorian is an experienced, caring, and understanding male Psychologist providing counselling support for a wide range of personal, relationship, and psychological issues. Dorian is located in Brookvale on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. Please contact Dorian for appointments, enquiries, or to make a referral for Psychological support. AHPRA Registered Psychologist; Member Australian Psychological Society; Assoc. Member College of Counselling Psychologists; Medicare Provider 5042532T.
Dorian is an experienced, caring, and understanding male Psychologist providing counselling support for a wide range of personal, relationship, and psychological issues. Dorian is located in Brookvale on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. Please contact Dorian for appointments, enquiries, or to make a referral for Psychological support. AHPRA Registered Psychologist; Member Australian Psychological Society; Assoc. Member College of Counselling Psychologists; Medicare Provider 5042532T.
(02) 8355 9794 View (02) 8355 9794
Photo of Elizabeth Gray, Psychologist, MSc, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Elizabeth Gray
Psychologist, MSc, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Serves Area
Elizabeth Gray, (Liz) is the only Certified Gottman Method Couples Therapist on the Northern Beaches Sydney. Liz has been a Psychologist for 24 years, (10 of those in private practice) and has worked in a range of settings, including Macquarie University, 'Open Colleges AUS', Hospital and Prison Services, (UK). Liz hails from the sunny UK, and has fulfilled a childhood dream of living in Australia. Liz has many long term clients, and is also happy to see clients who just need a few sessions to get back on track in life! Liz sees solo clients and couples. Gottman method Couples Therapy is a research based approach to couples.
Elizabeth Gray, (Liz) is the only Certified Gottman Method Couples Therapist on the Northern Beaches Sydney. Liz has been a Psychologist for 24 years, (10 of those in private practice) and has worked in a range of settings, including Macquarie University, 'Open Colleges AUS', Hospital and Prison Services, (UK). Liz hails from the sunny UK, and has fulfilled a childhood dream of living in Australia. Liz has many long term clients, and is also happy to see clients who just need a few sessions to get back on track in life! Liz sees solo clients and couples. Gottman method Couples Therapy is a research based approach to couples.
0423 786 257 View 0423 786 257
Photo of Jo Roome, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Jo Roome
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I work with people who experience depression, anxiety, panic attacks, stress, relationship issues, PTSD/trauma, emotional regulation issues, phobias e.g. flying on a plan, needles, heights, leaving the house, public speaking. I only use evidenced-based therapies such as CBT (which includes exposure and response prevention therapy), DBT & trauma focused therapies such as EMDR. (I am an EMDR Australia Association Accredited Practitioner.) I start with a thorough assessment which includes understanding your goals and hopeful outcomes. We work from there and decide on an appropriate & realistic approach & therapy.
I work with people who experience depression, anxiety, panic attacks, stress, relationship issues, PTSD/trauma, emotional regulation issues, phobias e.g. flying on a plan, needles, heights, leaving the house, public speaking. I only use evidenced-based therapies such as CBT (which includes exposure and response prevention therapy), DBT & trauma focused therapies such as EMDR. (I am an EMDR Australia Association Accredited Practitioner.) I start with a thorough assessment which includes understanding your goals and hopeful outcomes. We work from there and decide on an appropriate & realistic approach & therapy.
(02) 8403 0906 View (02) 8403 0906
Photo of Katrina Helene, Psychotherapist, MA, AMHSW
Katrina Helene
Psychotherapist, MA, AMHSW
Serves Area
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.
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 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 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 am a creative therapist who works intuitively and experimentally. I believe in treating the underlying causes not just the symptoms. I have held various senior clinical roles and continue to work as a Senior therapist at South Pacific Private where I run the sex and love addiction intensive programs. Working with Addiction and intimacy related disorders is an area I am passionate about as I love witnessing the profound change that can occur when we get vulnerable, trust and become our authentic selves.
I have extensive experience working in the field of Addiction and Trauma and believe whole heartedly that recovery is possible. I am a creative therapist who works intuitively and experimentally. I believe in treating the underlying causes not just the symptoms. I have held various senior clinical roles and continue to work as a Senior therapist at South Pacific Private where I run the sex and love addiction intensive programs. Working with Addiction and intimacy related disorders is an area I am passionate about as I love witnessing the profound change that can occur when we get vulnerable, trust and become our authentic selves.
(02) 8403 1332 View (02) 8403 1332
Photo of Simon Turmanis, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Simon Turmanis
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am an extremely caring, warm, open, helpful, respectful, supportive, encouraging, hardworking & compassionate person & health professional. I am very passionate about helping people…well. Helping people to reduce their suffering is important to me. I will want to understand the unique way you are suffering or struggling to cope and will make a difference.
I am an extremely caring, warm, open, helpful, respectful, supportive, encouraging, hardworking & compassionate person & health professional. I am very passionate about helping people…well. Helping people to reduce their suffering is important to me. I will want to understand the unique way you are suffering or struggling to cope and will make a difference.
(02) 8320 5126 View (02) 8320 5126
Photo of Simon Turmanis - ST & A Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
ST & A Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Welcome. Are you looking to reduce your suffering, improve your mental health and satisfaction with life, and live a richer, more meaningful, purposeful and enjoyable life? Do you want to work with people who really care? At “ST & A Psychology” we strongly believe in the strength & ability within you, to change your life, & manage your issues more effectively. As experts on mental health and change, we respect you as the expert of your life. Thus, we will help you to work towards what is important, meaningful & purposeful for you, to help you better meet your psychological needs.
Welcome. Are you looking to reduce your suffering, improve your mental health and satisfaction with life, and live a richer, more meaningful, purposeful and enjoyable life? Do you want to work with people who really care? At “ST & A Psychology” we strongly believe in the strength & ability within you, to change your life, & manage your issues more effectively. As experts on mental health and change, we respect you as the expert of your life. Thus, we will help you to work towards what is important, meaningful & purposeful for you, to help you better meet your psychological needs.
(02) 8317 4048 View (02) 8317 4048
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 empathic and wholehearted approach creates an environment for clients to feel safe to be able to be vulnerable and explore underlying issues to their presenting problems. She is registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency and has been a member of the Australian Psychological Society. Julie also received training from The Institute for the Psychology of Eating and is a qualified Eating Psychology Coach.
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 empathic and wholehearted approach creates an environment for clients to feel safe to be able to be vulnerable and explore underlying issues to their presenting problems. She is registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency and has been a member of the Australian Psychological Society. Julie also received training from The Institute for the Psychology of Eating and is a qualified Eating Psychology Coach.
(02) 9909 6171 View (02) 9909 6171
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 Oksana Pueschel, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Oksana Pueschel
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Senior Therapist and Art Therapist at South Pacific Private Hospital on the Northen Beaches Sydney, and in private practice in Crow’s Nest, Sydney. I specialise in addiction recovery, couples therapy and trauma. I use evidence-based modalities such as Schema Therapy, Art Therapy, Neurofeedback and other trauma informed modalities to access deeper laye
I am a Senior Therapist and Art Therapist at South Pacific Private Hospital on the Northen Beaches Sydney, and in private practice in Crow’s Nest, Sydney. I specialise in addiction recovery, couples therapy and trauma. I use evidence-based modalities such as Schema Therapy, Art Therapy, Neurofeedback and other trauma informed modalities to access deeper laye
(02) 9100 0180 View (02) 9100 0180
Photo of Rachel Ainge, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Rachel Ainge
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
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 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 Amber Rules, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Amber Rules
Psychotherapist, PACFA
5 Endorsed
Leichhardt, NSW 2040
Are you struggling with substances, gambling, smoking or other patterns that feel impossible to change? Or perhaps you're affected by someone else's addictive behaviours? As an experienced addiction support specialist, I help you understand these patterns and manage the chaos they create. Together, we'll combine practical education, evidence-based strategies, and counselling to help you make choices that align with the life you want. I also work with clients experiencing challenges including ADHD, chronic pain, relationship difficulties, and complex mental health diagnoses.
Are you struggling with substances, gambling, smoking or other patterns that feel impossible to change? Or perhaps you're affected by someone else's addictive behaviours? As an experienced addiction support specialist, I help you understand these patterns and manage the chaos they create. Together, we'll combine practical education, evidence-based strategies, and counselling to help you make choices that align with the life you want. I also work with clients experiencing challenges including ADHD, chronic pain, relationship difficulties, and complex mental health diagnoses.
(02) 9158 6064 View (02) 9158 6064
Photo of Charlotte Ritchie - Charlotte Ritchie Counselling and Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, PACFA
I am passionate about partnering with people to help them tolerate extreme emotion, to learn and grow and be free to choose new behaviours. I have decades of lived and years of clinical experience with Alcohol and Other Drugs use and abuse and the traumas that so often lead to it and arise from it. I have understanding of complex PTSD and the Autonomic Nervous System and the ways our experiences get laid down in our systems and repeat themselves, often causing relationship upsets.
I am passionate about partnering with people to help them tolerate extreme emotion, to learn and grow and be free to choose new behaviours. I have decades of lived and years of clinical experience with Alcohol and Other Drugs use and abuse and the traumas that so often lead to it and arise from it. I have understanding of complex PTSD and the Autonomic Nervous System and the ways our experiences get laid down in our systems and repeat themselves, often causing relationship upsets.
(02) 9100 0566 View (02) 9100 0566
Photo of Clair Sara Martin, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Clair Sara Martin
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Serves Area
I believe that seeking support takes courage, and my goal is to provide a space where you feel safe, respected, and understood. My approach is strengths-based and collaborative, focusing on your unique experiences, abilities, and goals. I work with young people and adults to help them navigate challenges, build resilience, and develop practical tools for lasting change. I also offer clinical supervision to support other practitioners in their professional development.
I believe that seeking support takes courage, and my goal is to provide a space where you feel safe, respected, and understood. My approach is strengths-based and collaborative, focusing on your unique experiences, abilities, and goals. I work with young people and adults to help them navigate challenges, build resilience, and develop practical tools for lasting change. I also offer clinical supervision to support other practitioners in their professional development.
(02) 5944 5487 View (02) 5944 5487
Photo of Wendy Holmes - Spinifex Rural and Remote Wellbeing Services, Social Worker, MA, AASW
Spinifex Rural and Remote Wellbeing Services
Social Worker, MA, AASW
Online Only
I like clients to feel comfortable when coming to see me, I take a relaxed approach to practice. I'm very down to earth and this seems to work well for my clients.
I like clients to feel comfortable when coming to see me, I take a relaxed approach to practice. I'm very down to earth and this seems to work well for my clients.
(03) 4328 2404 View (03) 4328 2404
Photo of Nipunika Gunawardena, Counsellor, PACFA
Nipunika Gunawardena
Counsellor, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m a counsellor with ten years of experience supporting people who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to navigate stress, anxiety, addiction, gambling, trauma, parenting challenges, or low self-esteem. I provide a warm, safe, and non-judgemental space where your experiences are heard, valued, and understood. I have extensive experience supporting people with alcohol, other drug, and gambling concerns, and I understand that everyone’s journey is unique. I also work with clients from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, offering care that is sensitive to your identity, values, and life experiences.
I’m a counsellor with ten years of experience supporting people who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to navigate stress, anxiety, addiction, gambling, trauma, parenting challenges, or low self-esteem. I provide a warm, safe, and non-judgemental space where your experiences are heard, valued, and understood. I have extensive experience supporting people with alcohol, other drug, and gambling concerns, and I understand that everyone’s journey is unique. I also work with clients from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, offering care that is sensitive to your identity, values, and life experiences.
(02) 8403 2580 View (02) 8403 2580

See more therapy options for Freshwater

Alcohol Use Therapists
Are there specific medications for alcohol use?
There are oral medications approved to treat alcohol use disorder—such as disulfiram, acamprosate, and naltrexone, which also comes in an injectable form. These medications do help people reduce their drinking as well as avoid the problem of relapse. Naltrexone helps reduce cravings, disulfiram can make a person feel sick when they drink, and acamprosate may help ease symptoms like poor sleep and anxious feelings.

How do alcohol recovery or rehabilitation programs work?
In inpatient programs, individuals live in a facility with other patients in recovery; in outpatient programs,individuals live at home. These facilities are staffed with healthcare professionals including physicians, nurses, psychologists, counselors, and psychotherapists. Staff can also include people who have recovered themselves, serving as mentors and guides. These programs may use abstinence, harm reduction, detoxification, psychotherapy, and other tools for recovery.

How do 12-step programs combined with psychotherapy work?
Members of 12-step programs help each other reach abstinence and work to maintain it. These programs promote complete change in the individual’s emotional, mental, physical, and even spiritual perspectives. Some programs require that new members attend 90 meetings in 90 days. Many people do attend these programs in conjunction with their work in psychotherapy; the combination of therapy along with 12-step can be extremely effective.

How does harm reduction combined with psychotherapy work?
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, harm reduction prevents death, injury, disease, overdose, and substance misuse. People who choose harm reduction for alcohol use reduce the amount of alcohol they intake. It is not abstinence-based like a 12-step program, but combining harm reduction with psychotherapy proves to be effective for many people.