Substance Use Psychologists and Therapists in Freshwater, NSW

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 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 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 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 Robyn Price, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Robyn Price
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
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.
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 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 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 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 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 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 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

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lucie Swaffield, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA Endorsed
Lucie Swaffield
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA Endorsed
1 Endorsed
Woollahra, NSW 2025
As a Clinical and Forensic Psychologist, and Advanced Accredited Schema Therapist, Lucie brings a particular skill set and tested methods that work. Lucie has over 11 years of experience treating a broad range of clinical and forensic difficulties, including trauma, PTSD, addiction, personality disorders and complex problems.
As a Clinical and Forensic Psychologist, and Advanced Accredited Schema Therapist, Lucie brings a particular skill set and tested methods that work. Lucie has over 11 years of experience treating a broad range of clinical and forensic difficulties, including trauma, PTSD, addiction, personality disorders and complex problems.
(02) 9000 1914 View (02) 9000 1914
Photo of Dave Segal, Counsellor, PACFA
Dave Segal
Counsellor, PACFA
Online Only
Specialising in couples counselling, substance use, grief, and trauma I utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
If you’ve found yourself here, chances are something important isn’t feeling right—maybe in your relationship, your sense of self, or both. Whether you’re in a new relationship or have been together for decades, it’s common to feel stuck, disconnected, or unsure of how to move forward. And it’s not always easy to open up to friends, family, or even your partner. I offer a warm, collaborative space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported as we work together to create meaningful, lasting change—emotionally, mentally, and in the way you connect with others. Therapy isn’t about fixing you—it’s about supporting you.
Specialising in couples counselling, substance use, grief, and trauma I utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
If you’ve found yourself here, chances are something important isn’t feeling right—maybe in your relationship, your sense of self, or both. Whether you’re in a new relationship or have been together for decades, it’s common to feel stuck, disconnected, or unsure of how to move forward. And it’s not always easy to open up to friends, family, or even your partner. I offer a warm, collaborative space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported as we work together to create meaningful, lasting change—emotionally, mentally, and in the way you connect with others. Therapy isn’t about fixing you—it’s about supporting you.
(07) 4085 9014 View (07) 4085 9014
Photo of Carolina Bustos, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Carolina Bustos
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I am a warm and non-judgmental therapist, who enjoys working collaboratively with my clients. I use a humanistic approach and a variety of evidence-based techniques to facilitate goal achievements. I work reflectively and obtain feedback from my clients to ensure treatment plans make genuine sense through their time in therapy. I provide a welcoming space for my younger clients where they feel free to express their emotions and thoughts in a safe and fun manner (play therapy, artistic activities or verbal communication). Having lived in several countries, I have a broad understanding of cultural differences and human diversity.
I am a warm and non-judgmental therapist, who enjoys working collaboratively with my clients. I use a humanistic approach and a variety of evidence-based techniques to facilitate goal achievements. I work reflectively and obtain feedback from my clients to ensure treatment plans make genuine sense through their time in therapy. I provide a welcoming space for my younger clients where they feel free to express their emotions and thoughts in a safe and fun manner (play therapy, artistic activities or verbal communication). Having lived in several countries, I have a broad understanding of cultural differences and human diversity.
(03) 6164 5011 View (03) 6164 5011
Photo of Rachel Gordon, Psychotherapist, MPsych, PACFA
Rachel Gordon
Psychotherapist, MPsych, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Cammeray, NSW 2062
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 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
Photo of Barry Lewis, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Barry Lewis
Psychotherapist, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Surry Hills, NSW 2010
Many different events will impact our lives, most of the time we can deal with them, other times we cannot. A difficult childhood, the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, an illness or accident, a toxic work environment, sexuality & gender, unemployment, the current pandemic affecting our world or just being at a new stage of our lives can cause us to feel lost within ourselves and the wider world. This can lead to anxiety or depression, it can affect our self-esteem and disconnect us from everyone around us, leaving us isolated and alone.
Many different events will impact our lives, most of the time we can deal with them, other times we cannot. A difficult childhood, the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, an illness or accident, a toxic work environment, sexuality & gender, unemployment, the current pandemic affecting our world or just being at a new stage of our lives can cause us to feel lost within ourselves and the wider world. This can lead to anxiety or depression, it can affect our self-esteem and disconnect us from everyone around us, leaving us isolated and alone.
(02) 6189 2878 View (02) 6189 2878
Photo of Rodney Ts - Help Now Group, Social Worker, AMHSW
Help Now Group
Social Worker, AMHSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I provide EMDR, Gestalt, and CBT therapy for people with a wide range of issues from PTSD, Anxiety, Substance Use, Dissociation, and more
The ideal person coming into see me are committing to change for themselves. I see their ideal goals are finding peace with their trauma, anxiety, depression, and etc. I see that they are looking for a calm place even if they have not experienced this in their life before.
I provide EMDR, Gestalt, and CBT therapy for people with a wide range of issues from PTSD, Anxiety, Substance Use, Dissociation, and more
The ideal person coming into see me are committing to change for themselves. I see their ideal goals are finding peace with their trauma, anxiety, depression, and etc. I see that they are looking for a calm place even if they have not experienced this in their life before.
(02) 5133 8472 View (02) 5133 8472
Photo of Matthew William Sutherland - Sutherland Vitality, Social Worker, AASW
Sutherland Vitality
Social Worker, AASW
1 Endorsed
Marrickville, NSW 2204
We all struggle sometimes with life, but sometimes, it can feel like there’s no way forward. Sometimes there are things that you wish you could talk about with someone, but you just can’t find anyone who really hears you. I believe that we all deserve to be heard, and that when someone truly listens, it can help us to heal, grow, and move forward. My goal is to collaborate with you to create a shared understanding of your situation and some ways to move forward. It’s fantastic that you’re considering therapy, and I hope to support you on your journey however I can.
We all struggle sometimes with life, but sometimes, it can feel like there’s no way forward. Sometimes there are things that you wish you could talk about with someone, but you just can’t find anyone who really hears you. I believe that we all deserve to be heard, and that when someone truly listens, it can help us to heal, grow, and move forward. My goal is to collaborate with you to create a shared understanding of your situation and some ways to move forward. It’s fantastic that you’re considering therapy, and I hope to support you on your journey however I can.
0459 678 306 View 0459 678 306
Photo of Mary Capsanis, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Mary Capsanis
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Putney, NSW 2112
I'm a Clinical Psychologist who started my practice Introspect Clinical Psychology as I'm passionate about creating a supportive space for people to explore their challenges without judgement. I work with adults (18+), including individuals as well as working with couples. My areas of focus are supporting individuals to improve symptoms of stress, anxiety, depression, as well as supporting those who want to recover from harmful coping behaviours. I have an interest in helping individuals work through the childhood origins of their current difficulties, as well as building coping mechanisms and outlets for their distress.
I'm a Clinical Psychologist who started my practice Introspect Clinical Psychology as I'm passionate about creating a supportive space for people to explore their challenges without judgement. I work with adults (18+), including individuals as well as working with couples. My areas of focus are supporting individuals to improve symptoms of stress, anxiety, depression, as well as supporting those who want to recover from harmful coping behaviours. I have an interest in helping individuals work through the childhood origins of their current difficulties, as well as building coping mechanisms and outlets for their distress.
(02) 7804 4751 View (02) 7804 4751
Photo of Caitlin Amanda Gaffney, Social Worker, AASW
Caitlin Amanda Gaffney
Social Worker, AASW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am experienced working with neuro-diversity, addiction/ substance use and behaviour change.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with specialised experience supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, recovery and trauma. I am a Credentialed Eating Disorder Clinician and member of ANZAED. My approach is grounded in empathy, empowerment and collaboration, focused on building the insight, self-compassion, and practical skills needed to achieve your goals and live in alignment with your values. Clients who are referred by a GP with a mental health care plan are eligible for Medicare rebates of $87.25 per session.
I am experienced working with neuro-diversity, addiction/ substance use and behaviour change.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with specialised experience supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, recovery and trauma. I am a Credentialed Eating Disorder Clinician and member of ANZAED. My approach is grounded in empathy, empowerment and collaboration, focused on building the insight, self-compassion, and practical skills needed to achieve your goals and live in alignment with your values. Clients who are referred by a GP with a mental health care plan are eligible for Medicare rebates of $87.25 per session.
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See more therapy options for Freshwater

Substance Use Therapists
How do substance and drug recovery or rehabilitation programs work?
In inpatient programs, individuals live in a facility with other clients in recovery; in outpatient programs, individuals reside at home. These facilities are staffed with healthcare professionals including physicians, nurses, psychologists, counsellors, and psychotherapists. Staff often also includes people who have recovered themselves, serving as mentors and guides. These programs may use abstinence, harm reduction, detoxification, psychotherapy, and other methods.

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 substance use reduce the amount of drugs they consume. It is not abstinence-based like a 12-step program, but combining harm reduction with psychotherapy proves to be effective for many people.

Are there specific medications for substance and drug use?
There are medications approved to treat substance use disorder—such as buprenorphine, methadone, naltrexone, and acamprosate. These medications do help people cope with substance use as well as avoid the problem of relapse. Naltrexone can help reduce cravings, methadone is an opioid medication used to treat severe pain, and acamprosate may help ease symptoms like poor sleep and anxious feelings.