Adoption Counselling in Hunter Region, NSW

Photo of Sarah Young, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Sarah Young
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
The Junction, NSW 2291
I'm a clinical psychologist with experience in both the public and private sector helping teenagers and adults overcome emotional challenges. I believe people need someone to be in the moment with them as they face their feelings in response to everyday struggles and past issues. I prioritise emotional regulation and understanding so people feel empowered to meet their true capacity and overcome life's challenges.
I'm a clinical psychologist with experience in both the public and private sector helping teenagers and adults overcome emotional challenges. I believe people need someone to be in the moment with them as they face their feelings in response to everyday struggles and past issues. I prioritise emotional regulation and understanding so people feel empowered to meet their true capacity and overcome life's challenges.
(02) 4005 0121 View (02) 4005 0121
Photo of Linda Thomas, PhD, MAPS, Psychologist
Linda Thomas
Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Verified Verified
Newcastle, NSW 2300
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.
(02) 4058 4603 View (02) 4058 4603
Photo of Matt Garrett, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matt Garrett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Wickham, NSW 2293
Relationships are the our life blood to health and happiness. Investing in your relationship is bound to lead to an improved quality of life, a increased sense of your own identity and the potential to enjoy enriched, purposeful and mutually beneficial relationships with others.
Relationships are the our life blood to health and happiness. Investing in your relationship is bound to lead to an improved quality of life, a increased sense of your own identity and the potential to enjoy enriched, purposeful and mutually beneficial relationships with others.
(02) 4063 1200 View (02) 4063 1200
Photo of Allira Sazdanoff, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Allira Sazdanoff
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Newcastle, NSW 2300
I am a psychologist, with an approach to therapy that is person-centred and holistic in nature, taking into account the many aspects of the human experience and the influences that shape us. I have experience in assessing and providing therapeutic services to adolescents and adults with a diverse range of mental health conditions, and have a special interest in working with complex trauma and dissociation, anxiety, and attachment difficulties. I strive to create safety for individuals to explore their vulnerabilities and am passionate about supporting clients to reduce suffering, to live authentically, and achieve their goals.
I am a psychologist, with an approach to therapy that is person-centred and holistic in nature, taking into account the many aspects of the human experience and the influences that shape us. I have experience in assessing and providing therapeutic services to adolescents and adults with a diverse range of mental health conditions, and have a special interest in working with complex trauma and dissociation, anxiety, and attachment difficulties. I strive to create safety for individuals to explore their vulnerabilities and am passionate about supporting clients to reduce suffering, to live authentically, and achieve their goals.
(02) 4049 4035 View (02) 4049 4035
Photo of Melanie Zammit, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Melanie Zammit
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wickham, NSW 2293
Are you struggling to communicate effectively with your partner and feeling stuck in the same unhealthy pattern? Or going through a difficult separation or divorce? I am an experienced Couples Counsellor and Separation / Divorce Mediator. I understand the importance of effective communication and conflict resolution. I became a counsellor to help people find their voice, validate their emotions, and gain a better understanding of themselves and their relationships.
Are you struggling to communicate effectively with your partner and feeling stuck in the same unhealthy pattern? Or going through a difficult separation or divorce? I am an experienced Couples Counsellor and Separation / Divorce Mediator. I understand the importance of effective communication and conflict resolution. I became a counsellor to help people find their voice, validate their emotions, and gain a better understanding of themselves and their relationships.
(02) 4012 6458 View (02) 4012 6458
Photo of Naomi Severina Rose, Assoc MAPS, Psychologist
Naomi Severina Rose
Psychologist, Assoc MAPS
Verified Verified
Stanhope, NSW 2335  (Online Only)
I am a registered psychologist with AHPRA and an associate member of the Australian Psychological Society. My qualifications are a Master’s in clinical psychology (overseas) and a Masters of Couples and Family Therapy (UNSW). I am registered with Medicare, ATAPS, NDIS, SIRA, and Victim Services. I have more than 15 years clinical experience and have worked in Australia as a registered psychologist for 10 years providing counselling to couples and families, psychological assessments, worked in post separation at the FRC and provided Trauma informed counselling and writing of Impact statements for clients of the Royal Commission.
I am a registered psychologist with AHPRA and an associate member of the Australian Psychological Society. My qualifications are a Master’s in clinical psychology (overseas) and a Masters of Couples and Family Therapy (UNSW). I am registered with Medicare, ATAPS, NDIS, SIRA, and Victim Services. I have more than 15 years clinical experience and have worked in Australia as a registered psychologist for 10 years providing counselling to couples and families, psychological assessments, worked in post separation at the FRC and provided Trauma informed counselling and writing of Impact statements for clients of the Royal Commission.
(02) 9159 6624 View (02) 9159 6624
Photo of Jenni Lemmerman - Be the Change Counselling - Jenni Lemmerman, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Be the Change Counselling - Jenni Lemmerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Newcastle, NSW 2300  (Online Only)
Most of us spend a lot of time doing things for others, and it usually means we don’t take the best care of ourselves. Overtime many of us will experience a number of concerns or face unforeseen challenges, such as relationship worries, family dynamics, parenting, trauma, employment or educational problems, bereavement, becoming a Carer or unexpected illness. When we forget to make time for ourselves and take care of our own needs, we can lose our sense of who we really are. If you’re feeling lost or are uncertain of how to make the changes. If you’re feeling like you need to reconnect with yourself and refocus, then I'm here help.
Most of us spend a lot of time doing things for others, and it usually means we don’t take the best care of ourselves. Overtime many of us will experience a number of concerns or face unforeseen challenges, such as relationship worries, family dynamics, parenting, trauma, employment or educational problems, bereavement, becoming a Carer or unexpected illness. When we forget to make time for ourselves and take care of our own needs, we can lose our sense of who we really are. If you’re feeling lost or are uncertain of how to make the changes. If you’re feeling like you need to reconnect with yourself and refocus, then I'm here help.
(02) 9541 8425 View (02) 9541 8425
Photo of Leisa Pritchard - The Heart & Mind Collective, PsyBA General, Psychologist
The Heart & Mind Collective
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Morisset, NSW 2264
Leisa is a psychologist providing tailored assessment and treatment of children, adolescents and adults. Leisa provides comprehensive assessment for developmental disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD and Intellectual (Cognitive) difficulties using gold standard measures. She is experienced in the treatment of ASD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, behavioural issues, PTSD, attachment difficulties, and selective mutism. Leisa is an accredited Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR) practitioner and is currently providing Telehealth support online (Zoom).
Leisa is a psychologist providing tailored assessment and treatment of children, adolescents and adults. Leisa provides comprehensive assessment for developmental disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD and Intellectual (Cognitive) difficulties using gold standard measures. She is experienced in the treatment of ASD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, behavioural issues, PTSD, attachment difficulties, and selective mutism. Leisa is an accredited Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR) practitioner and is currently providing Telehealth support online (Zoom).
(02) 4326 0725 View (02) 4326 0725

Online Therapists

Photo of Michael Grunwald, Assoc MAPS, Psychologist
Michael Grunwald
Psychologist, Assoc MAPS
Verified Verified
Glebe, NSW 2037
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Registered General Psychologist experienced in working with a wide range of common adult mental health concerns in an open, sincere and frank manner, including anger management, depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment and obsessive compulsive disorders as well as various addictions (alcohol, drug, gambling, sex, internet) and recovery. As an older therapist, I bring decades of life experience into my counselling, with personal experience of many of the challenges facing clients, including trauma, grief/loss, sex/relationship and men's issues, workplace stress/bullying, hoarding, culture shock, parenting and adoption.
I am a Registered General Psychologist experienced in working with a wide range of common adult mental health concerns in an open, sincere and frank manner, including anger management, depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment and obsessive compulsive disorders as well as various addictions (alcohol, drug, gambling, sex, internet) and recovery. As an older therapist, I bring decades of life experience into my counselling, with personal experience of many of the challenges facing clients, including trauma, grief/loss, sex/relationship and men's issues, workplace stress/bullying, hoarding, culture shock, parenting and adoption.
(02) 8806 0512 View (02) 8806 0512
Photo of Kimberley Lee, PACFA, Counsellor
Kimberley Lee
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Potts Point, NSW 2011
I have lived experience with adoption and an interest in working with adopted people and their families.
I work with adoptees, people who are single on purpose, dating and new relationships, depression, anxiety, career and workplace challenges, major life changes and choices, and people who work in the sex industry. I believe everyone has the ability to make change with support and care through the healing process. I am also doing further training in somatic psychotherapy (2021-ongoing), am a certified meditation teacher, and communications specialist.
I have lived experience with adoption and an interest in working with adopted people and their families.
I work with adoptees, people who are single on purpose, dating and new relationships, depression, anxiety, career and workplace challenges, major life changes and choices, and people who work in the sex industry. I believe everyone has the ability to make change with support and care through the healing process. I am also doing further training in somatic psychotherapy (2021-ongoing), am a certified meditation teacher, and communications specialist.
(02) 8806 0548 View (02) 8806 0548
Photo of Kyla Edinburg, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Kyla Edinburg
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
I have specific experience with issues related to adoption and I am interested in sexual difficulties.
I like to work with all types of people and all types of difficulties. I offer an opportunity to explore your life and yourself and for you gain insight into your behaviour in a non-judgmental and safe space. I am comfortable with short-term or long term therapy. See more at www.kylaclinicalpsychologist.com
I have specific experience with issues related to adoption and I am interested in sexual difficulties.
I like to work with all types of people and all types of difficulties. I offer an opportunity to explore your life and yourself and for you gain insight into your behaviour in a non-judgmental and safe space. I am comfortable with short-term or long term therapy. See more at www.kylaclinicalpsychologist.com
(02) 9100 0409 View (02) 9100 0409
Sai Psychological Services
Psychologist, FAPS
Verified Verified
Liverpool, NSW 2170
My areas of expertise include: Anxiety. Depression. Adjustment difficulties Grief and Loss. Anger. Complex Trauma. Psychological assessment. Oro facial pain management. Body-image disturbance. Relationship issues. Stress and worry. Sleep difficulties. Body-image disturbance. Pain management.
My areas of expertise include: Anxiety. Depression. Adjustment difficulties Grief and Loss. Anger. Complex Trauma. Psychological assessment. Oro facial pain management. Body-image disturbance. Relationship issues. Stress and worry. Sleep difficulties. Body-image disturbance. Pain management.
(02) 8105 5131 View (02) 8105 5131
Photo of Renee Claire Voice, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Renee Claire Voice
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Newport, NSW 2106
Many people today feel isolated and alone in their relationships as a result of the current difficult times of the pandemic. A basic human need is to connect and the breakdown of relationships can be extremely painful. My aim is to help you grow in your relationship - to move from a state of conflict, loneliness, unhappiness to healing and connection with your partner.
Many people today feel isolated and alone in their relationships as a result of the current difficult times of the pandemic. A basic human need is to connect and the breakdown of relationships can be extremely painful. My aim is to help you grow in your relationship - to move from a state of conflict, loneliness, unhappiness to healing and connection with your partner.
(02) 4313 1538 View (02) 4313 1538
Photo of Wilfred Lax, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Wilfred Lax
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Edgecliff, NSW 2027
I have been a Clinical Psychologist for many years, I have worked with individuals, couples and families who present with a variety of needs. I have trained in Hypnotherapy worked with clients with complex trauma, and across the lifespan. I don't believe that any one is 'broken' but do believe that everyone can be fixed. Optimism and humour are central to my practice as are warmth and empathy. Courage is important both for you and me.
I have been a Clinical Psychologist for many years, I have worked with individuals, couples and families who present with a variety of needs. I have trained in Hypnotherapy worked with clients with complex trauma, and across the lifespan. I don't believe that any one is 'broken' but do believe that everyone can be fixed. Optimism and humour are central to my practice as are warmth and empathy. Courage is important both for you and me.
(02) 9100 0797 View (02) 9100 0797
Photo of Debra Jane Pittam, MC, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Debra Jane Pittam
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
North Turramurra, NSW 2074  (Online Only)
Hello, here is a little bit of information about me. I have a master’s degree in counselling and am registered with the Australian Counselling Association (ACA). I am also a Registered Nurse and a Professionally Certified Coach (PCC) with the International Coach Federation. I work with people who are experiencing the psychological and emotional impacts of cancer and chronic disease, or simply getting older and, at the same time, need to solve practical problems and advocate for themselves. I also work with people who care for or are caring for someone who has cancer, or a chronic physical or mental illness.
Hello, here is a little bit of information about me. I have a master’s degree in counselling and am registered with the Australian Counselling Association (ACA). I am also a Registered Nurse and a Professionally Certified Coach (PCC) with the International Coach Federation. I work with people who are experiencing the psychological and emotional impacts of cancer and chronic disease, or simply getting older and, at the same time, need to solve practical problems and advocate for themselves. I also work with people who care for or are caring for someone who has cancer, or a chronic physical or mental illness.
(02) 8403 2602 View (02) 8403 2602
Peter Jones
Psychologist, MSc, MAPS
Verified Verified
Annandale, NSW 2038  (Online Only)
You are probably a person who has had a degree of success in your life so far, but experiences a level of noticeable dissatisfaction or unresolved difficulty, which you may have felt for some time. Often this experience shows itself in our unhappiness with relationships, family or work/career. You may have had a recent loss that you are having difficulty moving on from, or perhaps you are noticing a pattern in your experiences that seem to recur, no matter what you try to do differently. You are a self-reflective person who is curious about how to change yourself and are now motivated to do so.
You are probably a person who has had a degree of success in your life so far, but experiences a level of noticeable dissatisfaction or unresolved difficulty, which you may have felt for some time. Often this experience shows itself in our unhappiness with relationships, family or work/career. You may have had a recent loss that you are having difficulty moving on from, or perhaps you are noticing a pattern in your experiences that seem to recur, no matter what you try to do differently. You are a self-reflective person who is curious about how to change yourself and are now motivated to do so.
(02) 8503 4154 View (02) 8503 4154
Photo of Nicole Dunn, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Nicole Dunn
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlingford, NSW 2118
Nicole is a caring and engaging Psychologist who works across the lifespan from young children (with parents), adolescence, adults to elderly. Nicole is a warm and patient therapist who instantly puts clients at ease. She enjoys and matches the energy of kids and teens and also enjoys working with seasoned professionals who may be crossing challenges in their professional or personal lives.
Nicole is a caring and engaging Psychologist who works across the lifespan from young children (with parents), adolescence, adults to elderly. Nicole is a warm and patient therapist who instantly puts clients at ease. She enjoys and matches the energy of kids and teens and also enjoys working with seasoned professionals who may be crossing challenges in their professional or personal lives.
(02) 7804 4859 View (02) 7804 4859
Photo of Lyndell Weaver, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Lyndell Weaver
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Summer Hill, NSW 2130
Are you struggling with major changes, loss or uncertainty about the future? Maybe you're contending with a child’s worsening behaviour or mental health and you're feeling overwhelmed, frustrated or at a loss. Your family or intimate relationships may be more strained or volatile and you find yourself reacting to or retreating from others more than you'd like. Real Life Counselling provides a supportive space to explore and address your concerns about the realities facing you and your loved ones.
Are you struggling with major changes, loss or uncertainty about the future? Maybe you're contending with a child’s worsening behaviour or mental health and you're feeling overwhelmed, frustrated or at a loss. Your family or intimate relationships may be more strained or volatile and you find yourself reacting to or retreating from others more than you'd like. Real Life Counselling provides a supportive space to explore and address your concerns about the realities facing you and your loved ones.
(02) 8806 0251 View (02) 8806 0251
Photo of Kerri Parke, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Kerri Parke
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Parramatta, NSW 2150  (Online Only)
It's OK to feel daunted by the prospect of counselling; sessions with me will be collaborative and will go at your own pace. There will be no judgment, you won't have to talk about anything that feels too painful until you are ready and I will not tell you what to do. Sometimes people think they have to be “crazy” or have mental health issues, or have experienced a severe trauma to see a therapist. My response is, if it’s important to you, then it’s worth talking about with someone. It doesn’t matter how small you think the issue is, talking about it can help.
It's OK to feel daunted by the prospect of counselling; sessions with me will be collaborative and will go at your own pace. There will be no judgment, you won't have to talk about anything that feels too painful until you are ready and I will not tell you what to do. Sometimes people think they have to be “crazy” or have mental health issues, or have experienced a severe trauma to see a therapist. My response is, if it’s important to you, then it’s worth talking about with someone. It doesn’t matter how small you think the issue is, talking about it can help.
View
Photo of Jessica Cortes, PsyBA Endorsed, Psychologist
Jessica Cortes
Psychologist, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
Please only call the mobile . J & Co values holistic care, providing the latest scientific evidence based best practices. It aims at providing a safe, confidential, and accepting space to explore life’s challenges. Further, the clinic gives people the tools they need to effectively deal with their psychological well-being and improve their quality of life.
Please only call the mobile . J & Co values holistic care, providing the latest scientific evidence based best practices. It aims at providing a safe, confidential, and accepting space to explore life’s challenges. Further, the clinic gives people the tools they need to effectively deal with their psychological well-being and improve their quality of life.
(02) 8403 0921 View (02) 8403 0921

See more therapy options for Hunter Region

Adoption Counsellors

Does my adopted child need therapy?

Not every adopted child needs therapy. However, many can benefit from seeing an adoption-informed therapist, especially if they were victims of abuse or neglect, appear withdrawn or disconnected, have behavioural or developmental issues (which may or may not be related to their adoption), are struggling with feelings of grief or loss surrounding their birth parents, or find it difficult to establish an identity, a challenge that often becomes most apparent during adolescence.

When should adoptive parents seek therapy?

Prospective parents can benefit from therapy even before an adoption—for example, to voice worries and fears; to reconcile infertility struggles, if relevant; or simply to prepare themselves for parenthood. After the adoption, parents who are struggling to bond with their child; are unsure how to talk about adoption or related issues, such as race; or whose child is dealing with developmental, behavioural, or psychiatric concerns can address these and other issues with the help of an adoption-competent therapist.

Is family therapy appropriate for adoptive families?

Family therapy can be invaluable for strengthening the bond between adoptive parents and children, helping the latter feel more secure in their place in the family. Family therapy can also help adoptive families navigate complex communication issues—for example, parents who feel uncomfortable discussing race with their child, who in turn feels invalidated by their silence, or a child who has questions about his birth parents but avoids asking them out of fear of hurting his adoptive parents’ feelings.

What therapy is not appropriate for adoption issues?

A discredited therapy known as “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy” or “rebirthing therapy”) should not be used to treat adopted and foster children, though it was largely designed for this population. Attachment therapy involves restraining, coercing, and punishing the child in order for them to “release” negative emotions and attach to their new caregivers—techniques that are abusive and dangerous and have even proven fatal in some cases.