Sexual Abuse 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 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 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 Scout Smith-O'Leary - The Love Scout, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
The Love Scout
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
Hey, I'm Scout, a relationship therapist. You're probably here because something in your relationship feels stuck, hard, uncomfortable, painful or alarming. You're seeking support, and I'm here to help. 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.
Hey, I'm Scout, a relationship therapist. You're probably here because something in your relationship feels stuck, hard, uncomfortable, painful or alarming. You're seeking support, and I'm here to help. 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.
0481 531 555 View 0481 531 555
Photo of Samantha Goldrick, Social Worker, AMHSW
Samantha Goldrick
Social Worker, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
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.
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 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 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 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

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Stephen Moore, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Stephen Moore
Psychotherapist, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000
Inner Strength Therapy offers counselling in Sydney for trauma and anxiety to individuals and couples who are finding life challenging and stressful due to adverse past trauma. We address and treat a wide range of mental health issues including mood and anxiety disorders and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Counselling and Therapy are about healing and finding your way again towards a life of contentment and purpose. Sometimes this comes down to simply talking it out with an understanding and perceptive person trained in areas of counselling.
Inner Strength Therapy offers counselling in Sydney for trauma and anxiety to individuals and couples who are finding life challenging and stressful due to adverse past trauma. We address and treat a wide range of mental health issues including mood and anxiety disorders and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Counselling and Therapy are about healing and finding your way again towards a life of contentment and purpose. Sometimes this comes down to simply talking it out with an understanding and perceptive person trained in areas of counselling.
(02) 8294 7054 View (02) 8294 7054
Photo of Phoebe Lovett, Psychotherapist, MPsych, PACFA
Phoebe Lovett
Psychotherapist, MPsych, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Many of us feel like we are not good enough, overwhelmed by love, or afraid to be truly seen. We may long to connect with our partners but fear rejection, feel intense anger, or find ourselves constantly pleasing others to feel worthy. These struggles can leave us feeling anxious, disconnected, or stuck. But these feelings aren’t who we are — they’re parts of us trying to protect us from pain or danger, shaped by our past. These parts of us are trying to keep us safe, even if their methods feel overwhelming. I can provide opportunities to gently explore, connect to and understand these parts and their underlaying pain.
Many of us feel like we are not good enough, overwhelmed by love, or afraid to be truly seen. We may long to connect with our partners but fear rejection, feel intense anger, or find ourselves constantly pleasing others to feel worthy. These struggles can leave us feeling anxious, disconnected, or stuck. But these feelings aren’t who we are — they’re parts of us trying to protect us from pain or danger, shaped by our past. These parts of us are trying to keep us safe, even if their methods feel overwhelming. I can provide opportunities to gently explore, connect to and understand these parts and their underlaying pain.
(08) 6171 3161 View (08) 6171 3161
Photo of Meg Carrigan, Social Worker, AMHSW
Meg Carrigan
Social Worker, AMHSW
Drummoyne, NSW 2047
I work with adults experiencing the effects of trauma, anxiety, relational difficulties, and life stress, many of whom feel stuck in patterns they do not fully understand. Clients often seek therapy when past experiences, childhood wounds, or recent trauma begin impacting their relationships, sense of self, or daily functioning. I provide a neuroaffirming, trauma-informed space to help clients understand the origins of their difficulties, strengthen coping strategies, and create meaningful, lasting change.
I work with adults experiencing the effects of trauma, anxiety, relational difficulties, and life stress, many of whom feel stuck in patterns they do not fully understand. Clients often seek therapy when past experiences, childhood wounds, or recent trauma begin impacting their relationships, sense of self, or daily functioning. I provide a neuroaffirming, trauma-informed space to help clients understand the origins of their difficulties, strengthen coping strategies, and create meaningful, lasting change.
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Photo of Tammy Stander, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Tammy Stander
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Online Only
I am a trauma-informed and neurodiverse affirming RI-EMDR therapist and clinical supervisor. I seek to create a deepening awareness of self and enhance connection with others. I work primarily in the areas of complex trauma and dissociation supporting individuals and their loved ones. Exploration of the human condition has always intrigued me. I am curious as to the driving force behind why we do what we do and what determines our path in life. In understanding our life’s journey and what shapes it, we can begin to move towards a more content existence - with a balanced relationship with the world and the connections it brings.
I am a trauma-informed and neurodiverse affirming RI-EMDR therapist and clinical supervisor. I seek to create a deepening awareness of self and enhance connection with others. I work primarily in the areas of complex trauma and dissociation supporting individuals and their loved ones. Exploration of the human condition has always intrigued me. I am curious as to the driving force behind why we do what we do and what determines our path in life. In understanding our life’s journey and what shapes it, we can begin to move towards a more content existence - with a balanced relationship with the world and the connections it brings.
(02) 9159 6712 View (02) 9159 6712
Photo of Dr Martin Phillips - Relaxation For Women - Stress Trauma PTSD, Counsellor, PhD, ACA-L3
Relaxation For Women - Stress Trauma PTSD
Counsellor, PhD, ACA-L3
1 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000
For Women suffering stress, trauma, abuse, PTSD, relationships, intimacy, lifecycle. No matter who you are, where you are from, or what's your story, you are believed, valued, and cared for. Non-judgmental. Flexible client-centered choice of one or more therapies: Counselling, Mindfulness, Meditation, Massage. It's time to give yourself some self-love again. Trauma can be treated in many gentle ways without 'forcing' a flashback. Martin 0414 737 045
For Women suffering stress, trauma, abuse, PTSD, relationships, intimacy, lifecycle. No matter who you are, where you are from, or what's your story, you are believed, valued, and cared for. Non-judgmental. Flexible client-centered choice of one or more therapies: Counselling, Mindfulness, Meditation, Massage. It's time to give yourself some self-love again. Trauma can be treated in many gentle ways without 'forcing' a flashback. Martin 0414 737 045
(02) 9100 0776 View (02) 9100 0776
Photo of Teresa Wilkinson - Willow Tree Counselling, Psychologist, MA, Assoc MAPS
Willow Tree Counselling
Psychologist, MA, Assoc MAPS
Rosehill, NSW 2142
Willow Tree Counselling service is a specialised counselling service for people who have experienced Trauma and Attachment issues and other difficult life experiences. My approach is informed by research about the remarkable ability of people to survive and thrive after experiencing trauma. I am informed by practiced based evidence (Scott Miller) which means the therapy is tailored around what works for you. This means that I will check in with you throughout your therapy to see how helpful it is for you and adjust our focus so that you get an individualised therapy and, most importantly, one that you find helpful.
Willow Tree Counselling service is a specialised counselling service for people who have experienced Trauma and Attachment issues and other difficult life experiences. My approach is informed by research about the remarkable ability of people to survive and thrive after experiencing trauma. I am informed by practiced based evidence (Scott Miller) which means the therapy is tailored around what works for you. This means that I will check in with you throughout your therapy to see how helpful it is for you and adjust our focus so that you get an individualised therapy and, most importantly, one that you find helpful.
(02) 9053 4696 View (02) 9053 4696
Photo of Jane Lumley - Jane Lumley - People Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Jane Lumley - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Serves Area
Jane has experience in: Child Community Health settings Sexual Assault Counselling Psychiatric Inpatient care Counselling for general psychological problems Jane can provide psychologist reports.
Jane has experience counselling clients and can help you with: Emotional Dysregulation Counselling for Trauma Anxiety Depression Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Divorce Domestic Abuse Domestic Violence Emotional Disturbance Parenting Peer Relationships Self-Esteem Self-Harming Sexual Abuse Sexual Assault Sleep or Insomnia Stress Trauma and PTSD (Post
Jane has experience in: Child Community Health settings Sexual Assault Counselling Psychiatric Inpatient care Counselling for general psychological problems Jane can provide psychologist reports.
Jane has experience counselling clients and can help you with: Emotional Dysregulation Counselling for Trauma Anxiety Depression Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Divorce Domestic Abuse Domestic Violence Emotional Disturbance Parenting Peer Relationships Self-Esteem Self-Harming Sexual Abuse Sexual Assault Sleep or Insomnia Stress Trauma and PTSD (Post
(03) 7003 2782 View (03) 7003 2782
Photo of Meg Wettenhall, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Meg Wettenhall
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Online Only
She is experienced in supporting individuals who have experienced developmental and complex trauma, family violence, and sexual assault.
Meg bring's warmth, curiosity, authenticity, and compassion to sessions. She aims to help you create genuine change by deepen your relationship with yourself, others, and the world around you; focusing on building self-awareness, communication and emotion regulation skills, and new ways of relating that allow you to live with greater ease and authenticity.
She is experienced in supporting individuals who have experienced developmental and complex trauma, family violence, and sexual assault.
Meg bring's warmth, curiosity, authenticity, and compassion to sessions. She aims to help you create genuine change by deepen your relationship with yourself, others, and the world around you; focusing on building self-awareness, communication and emotion regulation skills, and new ways of relating that allow you to live with greater ease and authenticity.
(03) 4238 0899 View (03) 4238 0899
Photo of Denie Pentecost, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Denie Pentecost
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Saratoga, NSW 2251
As our world rapidly changes around us more people are reaching a crossroads and are looking for that "something more". This may be within yourself, within your relationships, out in the world and even beyond, to the spiritual. You may be unsure of just what that something is and you need support to uncover, resolve or heal it. Sometimes our life journey leaves us with stress, pain, trauma, struggle with identity and this can lead us to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as anxiety, depression, addiction and disconnection. I am a member of GANZ and PACFA (clinical member)
As our world rapidly changes around us more people are reaching a crossroads and are looking for that "something more". This may be within yourself, within your relationships, out in the world and even beyond, to the spiritual. You may be unsure of just what that something is and you need support to uncover, resolve or heal it. Sometimes our life journey leaves us with stress, pain, trauma, struggle with identity and this can lead us to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as anxiety, depression, addiction and disconnection. I am a member of GANZ and PACFA (clinical member)
(02) 8417 3142 View (02) 8417 3142
Photo of Netta Dolev, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Netta Dolev
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Macquarie Park, NSW 2113
Are you or your child carrying the weight of trauma, anxiety, or childhood neglect? In Macquarie Park and Bondi Junction,NSW, I support women and children who feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure how to move forward after painful or confusing experiences. Whether you're in North Ryde, Ryde, Lane Cove, Chatswood, Lower North Shore or Eastern Suburbs, you don't have to keep living in survival mode. With 15 years of experience, I offer a calm, grounded space where you can feel safe and understood. Reach out today for a free 15-minute consultation
Are you or your child carrying the weight of trauma, anxiety, or childhood neglect? In Macquarie Park and Bondi Junction,NSW, I support women and children who feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure how to move forward after painful or confusing experiences. Whether you're in North Ryde, Ryde, Lane Cove, Chatswood, Lower North Shore or Eastern Suburbs, you don't have to keep living in survival mode. With 15 years of experience, I offer a calm, grounded space where you can feel safe and understood. Reach out today for a free 15-minute consultation
(02) 7804 4529 View (02) 7804 4529
Photo of Kerryann Henry - KerryAnn Henry -Individual & Couples Therapy, Social Worker, AASW
KerryAnn Henry -Individual & Couples Therapy
Social Worker, AASW
Serves Area
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.
Empathic, safe & caring, using highly skilled proven attachment & relationship therapies- we work together as a team. You'll learn the relationship is the issue - not the individuals. Everyone deserves the best relationships possible; strong relationships being crucial to our individual wellbeing as well as our family's health & wellbeing outcomes.
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.
Empathic, safe & caring, using highly skilled proven attachment & relationship therapies- we work together as a team. You'll learn the relationship is the issue - not the individuals. Everyone deserves the best relationships possible; strong relationships being crucial to our individual wellbeing as well as our family's health & wellbeing outcomes.
(02) 5503 9341 View (02) 5503 9341
Payal Parmar
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
Please use email for any inquiries, including booking an appointment. While I am passionate about helping my clients with difficulties such as depression, anxiety, phobias, panic attacks and low self esteem, I also have a special interest in treating difficulties related to recent and past trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Complex PTSD, recurring nightmares, dissociation, adult survivors of childhood neglect and abuse, and long term unhelpful patterns of relationship and/or behaviour.
Please use email for any inquiries, including booking an appointment. While I am passionate about helping my clients with difficulties such as depression, anxiety, phobias, panic attacks and low self esteem, I also have a special interest in treating difficulties related to recent and past trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Complex PTSD, recurring nightmares, dissociation, adult survivors of childhood neglect and abuse, and long term unhelpful patterns of relationship and/or behaviour.
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Photo of Shareen Birges
Shareen Birges
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parramatta, NSW 2150
I specialise in mental health, trauma (including childhood trauma & sexual abuse/ assault), domestic violence, parenting, cancer & chronic illness, offending behaviour, & BPD.
I have been a counsellor, case manager & youth worker since 2008. Prior to 2016 I worked primarily with young people & their families, however I can & have worked with people across the age spectrum, all with unique & varied needs. Counselling is an individual experience & I want you to feel that no matter what, your needs are important. This is why I aim to provide an accessible, affordable & sustainable service. I believe I can help you on your journey towards the best version of yourself. Contact me for a free 15 minute phone consult & see if you agree.
I specialise in mental health, trauma (including childhood trauma & sexual abuse/ assault), domestic violence, parenting, cancer & chronic illness, offending behaviour, & BPD.
I have been a counsellor, case manager & youth worker since 2008. Prior to 2016 I worked primarily with young people & their families, however I can & have worked with people across the age spectrum, all with unique & varied needs. Counselling is an individual experience & I want you to feel that no matter what, your needs are important. This is why I aim to provide an accessible, affordable & sustainable service. I believe I can help you on your journey towards the best version of yourself. Contact me for a free 15 minute phone consult & see if you agree.
(02) 9159 6730 View (02) 9159 6730

See more therapy options for Freshwater

Sexual Abuse Therapists
How do therapists treat sexual abuse?
A good therapist will be nonjudgmental and possibly demonstrate active listening, repeating back what the client says to show that they have understood. These skills allow people to feel comfortable discussing their traumatic experiences openly. Some important treatment goals are to restore a sense of safety and to rebuild confidence. In addition to working one-on-one with the patient, a therapist might bring in supportive family members to assist the client.

Do you have to talk extensively about sexual abuse in therapy?
Survivors frequently find it difficult to describe what happened to them out loud. They can even still be in a state of denial if the sexual abuse occurred recently. It is important for survivors to acknowledge that what happened isn’t their fault and to challenge and reappraise any unhealthy feelings or thoughts as they arise. Art therapy and play therapy are useful non-verbal means of communication for some survivors.

How long does treatment for sexual abuse take?
Recovery from sexual abuse can be a long and difficult process. Some survivors are able to move on naturally on their own, given time, while others require the guidance of a trained therapist. Therapy needs vary and can range from a few sessions to months or even years. Healing from sexual abuse takes time, and everyone’s journey will look a little different.

Can trauma symptoms caused by sexual abuse come back after treatment?
As occurs in many cases of trauma, survivors of sexual abuse may experience PTSD-like symptoms long after the abuse has ceased or after an initial round of treatment has occurred. In such a case, there is evidence that prolonged exposure therapy is a useful treatment for survivors, and may be more efficacious than supportive counseling alone. While triggers may continue to cause distress, the idea is that, with time and repeated exposure, their power will fade, allowing survivors to move on with their lives.