Counselling in Hunter Region, NSW

As a psychologist committed to empowering individuals to thrive, my approach is grounded in understanding, compassion, and practical strategies. I believe therapy is a collaborative process where we work together to explore and address the root causes of your challenges, while supporting your unique journey toward growth and healing.
I offer evidence-based therapy tailored to your needs, whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or major life transitions. My focus is on providing a safe, non-judgmental space where you can express yourself freely and feel truly heard.
As a psychologist committed to empowering individuals to thrive, my approach is grounded in understanding, compassion, and practical strategies. I believe therapy is a collaborative process where we work together to explore and address the root causes of your challenges, while supporting your unique journey toward growth and healing.
I offer evidence-based therapy tailored to your needs, whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or major life transitions. My focus is on providing a safe, non-judgmental space where you can express yourself freely and feel truly heard.

I am a Psychologist in my eleventh year of clinical practice in Newcastle, NSW. I have undertaken advanced training in Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT) - the originating form of CBT - and met the international training standards set by The Albert Ellis Institute in New York City - where CBT was pioneered. I have been approved by the AEI as a RE-CBT Therapist, Supervisor, and Trainer. I am a Supervisor/Trainer with the Australian Institute of REBT (AIREBT). I am also an Associate Fellow of the Albert Ellis Institute and Associate Member of the International Association for REBT; and am a Board-Approved Supervisor.
I am a Psychologist in my eleventh year of clinical practice in Newcastle, NSW. I have undertaken advanced training in Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT) - the originating form of CBT - and met the international training standards set by The Albert Ellis Institute in New York City - where CBT was pioneered. I have been approved by the AEI as a RE-CBT Therapist, Supervisor, and Trainer. I am a Supervisor/Trainer with the Australian Institute of REBT (AIREBT). I am also an Associate Fellow of the Albert Ellis Institute and Associate Member of the International Association for REBT; and am a Board-Approved Supervisor.

I support women in mid-life to find a new way through all the hard feelings and experiences that keep showing up. Maybe you've been on a quest for self improvement and greater self understanding. You've read the books, joined the groups, listened to the podcasts—you can “let them” like a pro (or at least wish you could). But deep down, something still feels off. Relationships aren't working, you struggle to express yourself and the weight of old wounds, self-doubt, and a quiet, unnameable pain lingers, leaving you wondering if this is just your lot in life.
I support women in mid-life to find a new way through all the hard feelings and experiences that keep showing up. Maybe you've been on a quest for self improvement and greater self understanding. You've read the books, joined the groups, listened to the podcasts—you can “let them” like a pro (or at least wish you could). But deep down, something still feels off. Relationships aren't working, you struggle to express yourself and the weight of old wounds, self-doubt, and a quiet, unnameable pain lingers, leaving you wondering if this is just your lot in life.

I have a genuine interest in working with individuals across the lifespan and supporting a broad range of mental health presentations. This includes providing ADHD and autism assessments, as well as therapeutic support for anxiety, low mood, stress, and difficulty adjusting to life changes. I offer a safe, supportive space to explore your experiences and develop practical, meaningful strategies. My approach is collaborative and person-centred, I work with you to clarify your goals, build on your strengths, and support you in your journey towards greater emotional wellbeing, resilience, and fulfilment.
I have a genuine interest in working with individuals across the lifespan and supporting a broad range of mental health presentations. This includes providing ADHD and autism assessments, as well as therapeutic support for anxiety, low mood, stress, and difficulty adjusting to life changes. I offer a safe, supportive space to explore your experiences and develop practical, meaningful strategies. My approach is collaborative and person-centred, I work with you to clarify your goals, build on your strengths, and support you in your journey towards greater emotional wellbeing, resilience, and fulfilment.

Looking for a counsellor who can help you make real changes in your life? I'm also a clinical hypnotherapist and specialise in helping people make big improvements and adjustments in their lives- which all starts in the mind. If you want someone who is compassionate, listens and can work with you at your pace then you've found the right therapist. I am solutions focussed and thrive on seeing my clients achieve success (in whatever form that is for them). I'm NDIS-approved and work online and in-person in Newcastle, NSW.
Looking for a counsellor who can help you make real changes in your life? I'm also a clinical hypnotherapist and specialise in helping people make big improvements and adjustments in their lives- which all starts in the mind. If you want someone who is compassionate, listens and can work with you at your pace then you've found the right therapist. I am solutions focussed and thrive on seeing my clients achieve success (in whatever form that is for them). I'm NDIS-approved and work online and in-person in Newcastle, NSW.

Renee is a compassionate and approachable psychologist, known for her warm and friendly demeanour. Her primary focus is on fostering a secure and trusting environment in her therapeutic relationships, which enables a cooperative approach where she dedicates time to comprehending the unique requirements and aspirations of each individual. Renee draws upon a diverse array of therapeutic techniques in her approach to care, including: Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy Neurofeedback Mindfulness-based strategies Interpersonal therapies Renee tailors her approach to suit the distinct needs of her clients.
Renee is a compassionate and approachable psychologist, known for her warm and friendly demeanour. Her primary focus is on fostering a secure and trusting environment in her therapeutic relationships, which enables a cooperative approach where she dedicates time to comprehending the unique requirements and aspirations of each individual. Renee draws upon a diverse array of therapeutic techniques in her approach to care, including: Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy Neurofeedback Mindfulness-based strategies Interpersonal therapies Renee tailors her approach to suit the distinct needs of her clients.
I specialise in depressive/mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, personality disorders, grief, sleep, and gender dysphoria, I employ CBT, EMDR, DBT, mindfulness, ACT, SFT, narrative therapy, gender affirmation, MI, IPT, coping skills training, behavioral therapy, and positive psychology to empower clients towards personal development.
I specialise in depressive/mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, personality disorders, grief, sleep, and gender dysphoria, I employ CBT, EMDR, DBT, mindfulness, ACT, SFT, narrative therapy, gender affirmation, MI, IPT, coping skills training, behavioral therapy, and positive psychology to empower clients towards personal development.

Do you have a particular life obstacle you’re trying to overcome? Sometimes, seeking help from a professional is the best way to put things into perspective. I want to help you find the tools you need to overcome life obstacles. I am available for face to face and telehealth appointments Australia wide. I work with adults and older teens to help them address mental health or emotional concerns, and children 13+ with anxiety. I work with people with anxiety and depression, as well as addictions, eating disorders and head injuries. I also offer supervision services to Psychologists and Mental Health Workers.
Do you have a particular life obstacle you’re trying to overcome? Sometimes, seeking help from a professional is the best way to put things into perspective. I want to help you find the tools you need to overcome life obstacles. I am available for face to face and telehealth appointments Australia wide. I work with adults and older teens to help them address mental health or emotional concerns, and children 13+ with anxiety. I work with people with anxiety and depression, as well as addictions, eating disorders and head injuries. I also offer supervision services to Psychologists and Mental Health Workers.

Dr Linda Thomas is a Clinical Psychologist with over 25 years experience in providing accurate diagnosis and effective care for all psychological concerns and conditions.
Dr Linda Thomas is a Clinical Psychologist with over 25 years experience in providing accurate diagnosis and effective care for all psychological concerns and conditions.

Nerida works with individuals and couples. She treats low libido in all genders, mismatched libidos between a couple, difficulty with reaching orgasm, pain during intercourse, maintaining intimacy whilst managing health issues and/or chronic pain, anxiety related to being diagnosed with an STI, difficulty getting or maintaining an erection, premature ejaculation, delayed ejaculation, porn and sex addiction, kinks and fetishes, and ethical non monogamy. She works with couples to improve communication and restore trust post infidelity.
Nerida works with individuals and couples. She treats low libido in all genders, mismatched libidos between a couple, difficulty with reaching orgasm, pain during intercourse, maintaining intimacy whilst managing health issues and/or chronic pain, anxiety related to being diagnosed with an STI, difficulty getting or maintaining an erection, premature ejaculation, delayed ejaculation, porn and sex addiction, kinks and fetishes, and ethical non monogamy. She works with couples to improve communication and restore trust post infidelity.

Katherine, the founder of Blu Ripples, is a remarkable Career Development Specialist and Counsellor. She offers seven highly-regarded Career Services that include Career Counselling, Consulting, Planning and Reports, Psychometric Assessment among others. Katherine's expertise, accreditations, and skills make her a trusted choice among clients. The non-clinical psychometric assessments offered aim to assist individuals in achieving their desired career goals. These assessments include aptitude, career interest, counseling and mental health, burnout, coping scales, personality type, learning style preferences, workplace personality.
Katherine, the founder of Blu Ripples, is a remarkable Career Development Specialist and Counsellor. She offers seven highly-regarded Career Services that include Career Counselling, Consulting, Planning and Reports, Psychometric Assessment among others. Katherine's expertise, accreditations, and skills make her a trusted choice among clients. The non-clinical psychometric assessments offered aim to assist individuals in achieving their desired career goals. These assessments include aptitude, career interest, counseling and mental health, burnout, coping scales, personality type, learning style preferences, workplace personality.

When people first speak with us, they express feelings like, desperate, angry, helpless, stressed, lost, no-sense-of–belonging, not-good-enough, overwhelmed, and not-knowing-where-to-start. You may be feeling desperate, finding your life has unravelled, and that you have lost your way… When we meet, you are inviting us alongside you on your journey seeking understanding, meaning, and direction.
When people first speak with us, they express feelings like, desperate, angry, helpless, stressed, lost, no-sense-of–belonging, not-good-enough, overwhelmed, and not-knowing-where-to-start. You may be feeling desperate, finding your life has unravelled, and that you have lost your way… When we meet, you are inviting us alongside you on your journey seeking understanding, meaning, and direction.

I'm a registered psychologist with a grounded, compassionate, and down-to-earth approach. I meet clients where they’re at - with empathy, curiosity, and care - offering evidence-based, and tailored support.
I'm passionate about helping people heal from complex trauma and reconnect with their authentic core. My work draws on EMDR, polyvagal theory, and parts work. When it suits the client, I can also incorporate nature and horses into the process for deeper insight and growth.
I'm a registered psychologist with a grounded, compassionate, and down-to-earth approach. I meet clients where they’re at - with empathy, curiosity, and care - offering evidence-based, and tailored support.
I'm passionate about helping people heal from complex trauma and reconnect with their authentic core. My work draws on EMDR, polyvagal theory, and parts work. When it suits the client, I can also incorporate nature and horses into the process for deeper insight and growth.

Shelley Puru - Harmony Well-being Services
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Toronto, NSW 2283
Waitlist for new clients
Specialising in children, youth and individuals who are stressed, anxious and generally overwhelmed with life’s curve balls. Do you have children with behaviours that are challenging, diagnosis’ of ADHD, Autism or similar? Do you have teens that feel like no one understands them? Do you want to create a sense of contentment in your life? To gain some connection within your family, to feel a greater sense of self-worth and self-acceptance? To understand and not vilify the many different parts of who you are? Congratulations on taking the first and often most difficult step in your well-being journey!
Specialising in children, youth and individuals who are stressed, anxious and generally overwhelmed with life’s curve balls. Do you have children with behaviours that are challenging, diagnosis’ of ADHD, Autism or similar? Do you have teens that feel like no one understands them? Do you want to create a sense of contentment in your life? To gain some connection within your family, to feel a greater sense of self-worth and self-acceptance? To understand and not vilify the many different parts of who you are? Congratulations on taking the first and often most difficult step in your well-being journey!

Hi, I’m Grace.
Coffee fiend. Country gal. Former soldier. Psychologist.
Therapy is a weird setup—where else do we sit across from a stranger and start spilling our most personal thoughts? But I get it. I’ve sat on both sides of the therapy room—as both a client and a clinician—and I know how powerful it is to talk to someone who not only knows the right questions to ask but is also just a real, relatable person.
Hi, I’m Grace.
Coffee fiend. Country gal. Former soldier. Psychologist.
Therapy is a weird setup—where else do we sit across from a stranger and start spilling our most personal thoughts? But I get it. I’ve sat on both sides of the therapy room—as both a client and a clinician—and I know how powerful it is to talk to someone who not only knows the right questions to ask but is also just a real, relatable person.

Hi! I am a counsellor and mental health social worker and I work with people who want help to heal from unresolved trauma. I also work with people who struggle with boundary setting and 'people pleasing', which often leads to burnout. For professionals, I love providing counselling to other counsellors and helping professionals, and I believe engaging in our own therapy makes us better counsellors in many ways. Clinical Supervision is also available for counsellors and social workers.
Hi! I am a counsellor and mental health social worker and I work with people who want help to heal from unresolved trauma. I also work with people who struggle with boundary setting and 'people pleasing', which often leads to burnout. For professionals, I love providing counselling to other counsellors and helping professionals, and I believe engaging in our own therapy makes us better counsellors in many ways. Clinical Supervision is also available for counsellors and social workers.

Do you feel stuck? Are you struggling? Would you like to deepen your understanding of yourself and what is important to you? Would you like to feel more confident? Would you like to make choices that better serve you? Would you like to explore your concerns using dialogue, 2 chair work, art, body wisdom or dreams? Would you like to deepen your self awareness and authentic experience? Do you want to work in a way and at a pace determined by your needs? All sessions are mutually respectful and confidential.
Do you feel stuck? Are you struggling? Would you like to deepen your understanding of yourself and what is important to you? Would you like to feel more confident? Would you like to make choices that better serve you? Would you like to explore your concerns using dialogue, 2 chair work, art, body wisdom or dreams? Would you like to deepen your self awareness and authentic experience? Do you want to work in a way and at a pace determined by your needs? All sessions are mutually respectful and confidential.

Sometimes life feels like it is getting out of hand. You are transitioning through different phases of life and your expectations are changing as you do. You are frustrated that things are not going the way you had hoped or planned, and you aren't sure why? You may not be connected in the ways you'd like with your family or friends, so you don't have the personal support network that people are designed to rely upon. You wonder how other people manage and you feel like you should be, too...but you don't feel like you have any control and you aren't sure how to create meaningful change. You just need some help without judgement.
Sometimes life feels like it is getting out of hand. You are transitioning through different phases of life and your expectations are changing as you do. You are frustrated that things are not going the way you had hoped or planned, and you aren't sure why? You may not be connected in the ways you'd like with your family or friends, so you don't have the personal support network that people are designed to rely upon. You wonder how other people manage and you feel like you should be, too...but you don't feel like you have any control and you aren't sure how to create meaningful change. You just need some help without judgement.

I am a psychotherapist and relationship coach with a passion for helping those who find themselves stuck, depressed, anxious, blocked, or those restless and looking for solutions for finding a fulfilling better quality of life.
I am a psychotherapist and relationship coach with a passion for helping those who find themselves stuck, depressed, anxious, blocked, or those restless and looking for solutions for finding a fulfilling better quality of life.

Gemma offers client-centered, compassionate and ethical counselling to individuals, couples and families in person and via telehealth. Gemma has a strong interest in couple and family therapy, recognising the importance of relationships in healing from adversity.
Gemma is an Accredited Social Worker with over 18years experience, drawing on her experience and knowledge of working with people who endure grief & loss, trauma & developmental challenges, family and relationship difficulties and mental health concerns - supporting clients across the lifecycle. Gemma holds a strong passion for human rights & social justice.
Gemma offers client-centered, compassionate and ethical counselling to individuals, couples and families in person and via telehealth. Gemma has a strong interest in couple and family therapy, recognising the importance of relationships in healing from adversity.
Gemma is an Accredited Social Worker with over 18years experience, drawing on her experience and knowledge of working with people who endure grief & loss, trauma & developmental challenges, family and relationship difficulties and mental health concerns - supporting clients across the lifecycle. Gemma holds a strong passion for human rights & social justice.
See more therapy options for Hunter Region
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Hunter Region, NSW
200+
Average cost per session
$180
Counsellors in Hunter Region, NSW who prioritize treating:
85% | Anxiety |
75% | Depression |
72% | Self Esteem |
69% | Trauma and PTSD |
68% | Stress |
64% | Relationship Issues |
56% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
67% | Medicare Rebates |
46% | NDIS |
44% | Bupa |
How Counsellors in Hunter Region, NSW see their clients
71% | In Person and Online | |
29% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
79% | Female | |
20% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Hunter Region?
Search for nearby psychologists or counsellors by inputting your city, suburb, postcode, or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or postcode into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
Counsellors and Psychotherapists listed in the directory are members of the main professional associations, mainly the Australian Counselling Association and the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia. Psychologists must be registered in the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). Most Social Workers listed in the directory are members of the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW).
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given that professional memberships are not a statutory requirement for social workers, psychotherapists and counsellors in Australia, certain qualified professionals or organisations may choose not to maintain such memberships despite possessing the necessary qualifications. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given that professional memberships are not a statutory requirement for social workers, psychotherapists and counsellors in Australia, certain qualified professionals or organisations may choose not to maintain such memberships despite possessing the necessary qualifications. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counsellor?
Counsellors, psychotherapists and psychologists can all provide counselling or talking therapy and have credentials and experience that enable them to do so in Australia.
Psychologists have earned a 4 year undergraduate degree in psychology and have completed a postgraduate internship or postgraduate degree. Psychotherapists generally have an undergraduate degree in a health related field in addition to 3-4 years of specialist training in psychotherapy and a period of personal psychotherapy. In order to belong to a professional organisation such as the ACA or PACFA, counsellors and psychotherapists are required to have completed a certain level of AQF qualifications and/ or an approved training course as well as clinical and supervision hours. Social Workers registered with the AASW are required to have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Social Work from an accredited institution.
Psychologists have earned a 4 year undergraduate degree in psychology and have completed a postgraduate internship or postgraduate degree. Psychotherapists generally have an undergraduate degree in a health related field in addition to 3-4 years of specialist training in psychotherapy and a period of personal psychotherapy. In order to belong to a professional organisation such as the ACA or PACFA, counsellors and psychotherapists are required to have completed a certain level of AQF qualifications and/ or an approved training course as well as clinical and supervision hours. Social Workers registered with the AASW are required to have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Social Work from an accredited institution.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, the cost of a therapy session in Australia could be between $100 and $250. If you have private insurance, your plan may cover some if not all of your sessions. You should contact your insurance provider to determine if they provide coverage for therapy sessions and to determine what, if any, requirements they might have in order for your sessions to be covered, such as a referral from your GP or medical specialist.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. The Better Access Scheme is a government program offering Medicare rebates for mental health care. To access the program you will need to be assessed and diagnosed by your GP and get a Mental Health Plan. This will allow you to receive up to 10 individual sessions and 10 group sessions a year with practitioners who accept bulk billing, with no out of pocket costs for you.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. The Better Access Scheme is a government program offering Medicare rebates for mental health care. To access the program you will need to be assessed and diagnosed by your GP and get a Mental Health Plan. This will allow you to receive up to 10 individual sessions and 10 group sessions a year with practitioners who accept bulk billing, with no out of pocket costs for you.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your postcode.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Therapists who are part of a professional organisation such as the ACA, PACFA, or the APS are bound by an ethical framework that requires them to uphold a confidentiality agreement. Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship and only under specific circumstances, such as when there is the potential or known harm to the client or others or when a minor is in danger, will a therapist be obligated to break the agreement. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed during the initial consultation.