Family Therapy Counselling in Hunter Region, NSW

Photo of Christina Elizabeth Taylor, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Christina Elizabeth Taylor
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Serves Area
Under this foundation I use EMDR as a method of reducing trauma and Internal Family Systems as a way of explaining how the mind creates parts and helps people heal wounded parts of their psyche and end negative patterns.
I work primarily with adults who experienced childhood trauma. If you have suffered from emotional neglect, physical or sexual abuse or any other trauma I can help with the emotional or psychological impact; the possible impairment of self- esteem/self worth, the dysfunctional relationships you may have at times and the physical health consequences of childhood trauma. I help you to identify how you experienced these as a child and what kind of feelings arise as you now look at the experiences through an adult lens. We keep one foot in the present whilst accessing the trauma experienced and help you move to resilience and recovery
Under this foundation I use EMDR as a method of reducing trauma and Internal Family Systems as a way of explaining how the mind creates parts and helps people heal wounded parts of their psyche and end negative patterns.
I work primarily with adults who experienced childhood trauma. If you have suffered from emotional neglect, physical or sexual abuse or any other trauma I can help with the emotional or psychological impact; the possible impairment of self- esteem/self worth, the dysfunctional relationships you may have at times and the physical health consequences of childhood trauma. I help you to identify how you experienced these as a child and what kind of feelings arise as you now look at the experiences through an adult lens. We keep one foot in the present whilst accessing the trauma experienced and help you move to resilience and recovery
(02) 4307 5368 View (02) 4307 5368
Photo of Catherine Ann van Staden - The Lakes Counselling (Psychotherapist), MA
The Lakes Counselling (Psychotherapist)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morisset, NSW 2264
I work with clients who've struggled with depression, anxiety and trauma related to past and present relationships or family.
A warm welcome! My name is Catherine. You have taken the first step to alter your current situation. It will be a privilege as your psychotherapist (Masters in Counselling, Level 2 ACA), to provide you with exceptional bespoke treatment for depression, anxiety and trauma (or other mental health issues ). My guidance and professional skills, (CBT, ACT, and Gottman (couples) as well as extensive counseling experience have positively impacted my clients consisting of adults,children, teens, and couples. Small business award for Couples Therapy (2023). Also counsellor for Carers Australia.
I work with clients who've struggled with depression, anxiety and trauma related to past and present relationships or family.
A warm welcome! My name is Catherine. You have taken the first step to alter your current situation. It will be a privilege as your psychotherapist (Masters in Counselling, Level 2 ACA), to provide you with exceptional bespoke treatment for depression, anxiety and trauma (or other mental health issues ). My guidance and professional skills, (CBT, ACT, and Gottman (couples) as well as extensive counseling experience have positively impacted my clients consisting of adults,children, teens, and couples. Small business award for Couples Therapy (2023). Also counsellor for Carers Australia.
(03) 6159 0103 View (03) 6159 0103
Photo of Michelle Sauer - Sandy Toes Holistic Health , Counsellor, ACA-L2
Sandy Toes Holistic Health
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Blacksmiths, NSW 2281
At times this can be really challenging when we are facing hard situations personally or helping others as a parent/ carer/ friend/ partner or family member.
My approach is a holistically caring person centred style, attentively listening without judgement, holding space while working together with resources from various proven counselling practices, Bach flower and Australian Bush flower therapies.
At times this can be really challenging when we are facing hard situations personally or helping others as a parent/ carer/ friend/ partner or family member.
My approach is a holistically caring person centred style, attentively listening without judgement, holding space while working together with resources from various proven counselling practices, Bach flower and Australian Bush flower therapies.
(02) 4005 0042 View (02) 4005 0042
Photo of Gemma Keating, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Gemma Keating
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Swansea, NSW 2281
Gemma has a strong interest in couple and family therapy, recognising the importance of relationships in healing from adversity.
Gemma has completed training in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, Circle of Security Program, Gottman Couples Therapy and Safe & Together Model. Gemma promotes her alignment with Narrative therapy, Attachment-focused interventions, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment therapy and Response-based practice principles.
Gemma has a strong interest in couple and family therapy, recognising the importance of relationships in healing from adversity.
Gemma has completed training in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, Circle of Security Program, Gottman Couples Therapy and Safe & Together Model. Gemma promotes her alignment with Narrative therapy, Attachment-focused interventions, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment therapy and Response-based practice principles.
(02) 4075 9531 View (02) 4075 9531
Photo of Sinead Smith - Wise Mind Psychology Newcastle, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Wise Mind Psychology Newcastle
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
New Lambton, NSW 2305
Wise Mind offers a range of services, including individual therapy, child and family therapy, and psychological and diagnostic assessments for children and adults of all ages.
We understand that coming to therapy can be a daunting experience, which is why all our team members strive to provide a warm, friendly, and supportive environment. Our holistic approach to improving mental health is driven by our mission of connecting the people of Newcastle with personalised and accessible mental health services.
Wise Mind offers a range of services, including individual therapy, child and family therapy, and psychological and diagnostic assessments for children and adults of all ages.
We understand that coming to therapy can be a daunting experience, which is why all our team members strive to provide a warm, friendly, and supportive environment. Our holistic approach to improving mental health is driven by our mission of connecting the people of Newcastle with personalised and accessible mental health services.
(02) 4082 6720 View (02) 4082 6720
Photo of Matthew Lockwood, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Matthew Lockwood
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Serves Area
That could be returning to work, family, social settings.
One day, out of the blue, my life was turned upside down. Therefore I have specialist 'lived experience' with rehabilitation from serious illness and injury. This means that I can listen to you from a practical, not only the theoretical and clinical perspective.
That could be returning to work, family, social settings.
One day, out of the blue, my life was turned upside down. Therefore I have specialist 'lived experience' with rehabilitation from serious illness and injury. This means that I can listen to you from a practical, not only the theoretical and clinical perspective.
(08) 7078 7009 View (08) 7078 7009
Photo of Suzanne Stevens, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Suzanne Stevens
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Kotara, NSW 2289
I really enjoy working with kids and their families, particularly those who are having a hard time at home and/or school who need some support to make life run more smoothly for them and their family.
I have over fifteen years’ experience working in both the public and private sectors in Australia and the UK. I have worked in a variety of settings over that time, such as in hospitals, schools and community clinics and I have worked with people of all ages and from all backgrounds.
I really enjoy working with kids and their families, particularly those who are having a hard time at home and/or school who need some support to make life run more smoothly for them and their family.
I have over fifteen years’ experience working in both the public and private sectors in Australia and the UK. I have worked in a variety of settings over that time, such as in hospitals, schools and community clinics and I have worked with people of all ages and from all backgrounds.
(02) 4075 7006 View (02) 4075 7006
Photo of Kerrie Thompson, Counsellor, PACFA
Kerrie Thompson
Counsellor, PACFA
Hamilton, NSW 2303
I provide in person-online or phone counselling for adults and teenagers who have experienced trauma, who experience parenting challenges (shared parenting and post separation abuse) and specialize in navigating complex legal systems such as police processes, criminal court and Family Court.
I am a Registed Clinincal Counsellor and EMDR therapist, with over 13 years of working with people who have suffered physical and psychologial trauma as a result of violent crime, including shame, grief, loss, anger, fear, anxiety and depression.
I provide in person-online or phone counselling for adults and teenagers who have experienced trauma, who experience parenting challenges (shared parenting and post separation abuse) and specialize in navigating complex legal systems such as police processes, criminal court and Family Court.
I am a Registed Clinincal Counsellor and EMDR therapist, with over 13 years of working with people who have suffered physical and psychologial trauma as a result of violent crime, including shame, grief, loss, anger, fear, anxiety and depression.
(02) 4058 3123 View (02) 4058 3123
Photo of Jamie Lee-Anne Coghlan - Jamie Coghlan Counselling and Coaching, Counsellor
I have clients who are neurodiverse, or parents of children who are neurodiverse and seeking support travelling through the journey of diagnosis, understanding the diagnosis, challenges and difficulties occurring within the family, and advocacy for further supports.
I provide counselling utilising a neuro-affirming, strength based, client focus led approach. I draw from my personal life experiences, as well as my education and training within counselling, case management, and community services. My lived experiences: -women with late diagnosed ASD and ADHD -parent of children with additional needs -survivor of F&DV
I have clients who are neurodiverse, or parents of children who are neurodiverse and seeking support travelling through the journey of diagnosis, understanding the diagnosis, challenges and difficulties occurring within the family, and advocacy for further supports.
I provide counselling utilising a neuro-affirming, strength based, client focus led approach. I draw from my personal life experiences, as well as my education and training within counselling, case management, and community services. My lived experiences: -women with late diagnosed ASD and ADHD -parent of children with additional needs -survivor of F&DV
(02) 4071 2724 View (02) 4071 2724
Photo of Brad Crook - BC Counselling, Counsellor, PhD, ACA-L2
BC Counselling
Counsellor, PhD, ACA-L2
Murrays Beach, NSW 2281
In addition to my training in family and relationship therapy, I am Level 2 trained in Gottman Method of Couples Therapy.
With men in mind! I'm a male counsellor with a commitment to helping men talk about their life goals, challenges & problems. My goal is to help men move towards a greater sense of well-being & a more fulfilling experience of life. I seek to provide a professional, inclusive practice that recognises & respects diversity, meeting people where they are at & respecting their right to make decisions about their own life.
In addition to my training in family and relationship therapy, I am Level 2 trained in Gottman Method of Couples Therapy.
With men in mind! I'm a male counsellor with a commitment to helping men talk about their life goals, challenges & problems. My goal is to help men move towards a greater sense of well-being & a more fulfilling experience of life. I seek to provide a professional, inclusive practice that recognises & respects diversity, meeting people where they are at & respecting their right to make decisions about their own life.
(02) 4011 8115 View (02) 4011 8115
Photo of Tracy Anne Mackander - Vibe and Thrive Counselling, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Vibe and Thrive Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Salamander Bay, NSW 2317
They may be navigating anxiety, grief, low self-worth, relationship or family conflict, or simply struggling with the weight of everyday life.
As a Level 2 ACA-accredited Counsellor, I offer a warm, supportive, and confidential space where you can explore what’s going on for you without fear of judgment. My approach is person-centred, meaning I tailor each session to your unique needs, experiences, and pace. You are the expert in your life — I’m here to walk alongside you and support you.
They may be navigating anxiety, grief, low self-worth, relationship or family conflict, or simply struggling with the weight of everyday life.
As a Level 2 ACA-accredited Counsellor, I offer a warm, supportive, and confidential space where you can explore what’s going on for you without fear of judgment. My approach is person-centred, meaning I tailor each session to your unique needs, experiences, and pace. You are the expert in your life — I’m here to walk alongside you and support you.
(03) 6155 0006 View (03) 6155 0006
Photo of Freya H, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Freya H
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Online Only
I am experienced working with Victims of Crime, those struggling with substance use and those experiencing domestic and family violence.
Are you looking for a safe space to work through your trauma and heal? I offer warm, supportive, trauma informed phone and video counselling to people aged 16 and over. I am able to offer Approved Victims of Crime Counselling for those with funding in NSW.
I am experienced working with Victims of Crime, those struggling with substance use and those experiencing domestic and family violence.
Are you looking for a safe space to work through your trauma and heal? I offer warm, supportive, trauma informed phone and video counselling to people aged 16 and over. I am able to offer Approved Victims of Crime Counselling for those with funding in NSW.
(02) 4012 6214 View (02) 4012 6214
Photo of Caitlin Borham - Caitlin Blaxland, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Caitlin Blaxland
Psychologist, PsyBA General
New Lambton, NSW 2305
I have a special interest in the treatment of recurrent anxiety issues and trauma, however, I am experienced in the treatment of a range of presentations including (but not limited to) mood disorders, complex childhood trauma, PTSD, emotion regulation difficulties, family separation and divorce, interpersonal difficulties, work stress and parenting strategies (feel free to check out my website for more information and to learn more about my clinical experience).
I consider myself to be warm, empathetic and non- judgmental in my approach and I strongly believe in working collaboratively with you, at a pace set by you, using only evidence- based interventions (including ACT, EMDR, CBT, DBT and others).
I have a special interest in the treatment of recurrent anxiety issues and trauma, however, I am experienced in the treatment of a range of presentations including (but not limited to) mood disorders, complex childhood trauma, PTSD, emotion regulation difficulties, family separation and divorce, interpersonal difficulties, work stress and parenting strategies (feel free to check out my website for more information and to learn more about my clinical experience).
I consider myself to be warm, empathetic and non- judgmental in my approach and I strongly believe in working collaboratively with you, at a pace set by you, using only evidence- based interventions (including ACT, EMDR, CBT, DBT and others).
(02) 4071 8216 View (02) 4071 8216
Photo of Sharleen Gonzalez, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Sharleen Gonzalez
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I draw primarily on techniques from cognitive behaviour therapy, schema therapy, internal family systems (IFS) and dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT).
I'm a clinical psychologist who works with adults across a diverse range of mental health issues, I have a particular interest in trauma, grief, relationship issues, depression, life transitions (such as separation), multicultural populations, personality disorders (such as helping people who struggle with BPD traits or helping people manage difficult relationships with individuals with narcissistic traits or help them recover after narcissistic abuse), and dissociative disorders such as DID. I also have an interest in helping people with ME/CFS and related chronic illnesses such as Long Covid, Fibromyalgia (as I have ME/CFS).
I draw primarily on techniques from cognitive behaviour therapy, schema therapy, internal family systems (IFS) and dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT).
I'm a clinical psychologist who works with adults across a diverse range of mental health issues, I have a particular interest in trauma, grief, relationship issues, depression, life transitions (such as separation), multicultural populations, personality disorders (such as helping people who struggle with BPD traits or helping people manage difficult relationships with individuals with narcissistic traits or help them recover after narcissistic abuse), and dissociative disorders such as DID. I also have an interest in helping people with ME/CFS and related chronic illnesses such as Long Covid, Fibromyalgia (as I have ME/CFS).
(02) 4012 2512 View (02) 4012 2512
Photo of Matt Garrett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Matt Garrett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Wickham, NSW 2293
Please persevere as the end result can improve your quality of life and the quality of your relationships with family friends and lovers.
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.
Please persevere as the end result can improve your quality of life and the quality of your relationships with family friends and lovers.
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 Daniel Wendt - Oracle Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Oracle Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Newcastle, NSW 2300
They can take your initial details in order for us to match you with the best clinician to assist you and your family.
Mr Daniel Wendt is the Principal Clinical Psychologist and Director of Oracle Psychology. His qualifications in both Education and Psychology offer a unique combination of expertise which is well suited to assisting children and young people. We also assist adults and practice across the lifespan. Oracle Psychology's clinicians are registered with the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA) and the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). They have extensive experience working with children, teenagers and adults. Our staff are passionate about the wellbeing of individuals in Newcastle, the Hunter and Central Coast.
They can take your initial details in order for us to match you with the best clinician to assist you and your family.
Mr Daniel Wendt is the Principal Clinical Psychologist and Director of Oracle Psychology. His qualifications in both Education and Psychology offer a unique combination of expertise which is well suited to assisting children and young people. We also assist adults and practice across the lifespan. Oracle Psychology's clinicians are registered with the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA) and the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). They have extensive experience working with children, teenagers and adults. Our staff are passionate about the wellbeing of individuals in Newcastle, the Hunter and Central Coast.
(02) 4077 2916 View (02) 4077 2916
Photo of Diana Ginty - Ginty Counselling Clinic, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Ginty Counselling Clinic
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Carrington, NSW 2294
Couples and Individuals can benefit from my experience and training in trauma process through IFS (Internal Family Systems) and EFT.
Relationship distress is common and most people who find they are having relationship issues are struggling to understand how to fix things. People who need a couples therapist have normally experienced the toxic cycle of arguing and/or withdrawing from the relationship. Common relationship issues include emotional disconnection, Infidelity recovery, intimacy issues which results in communication breakdown. The goal of Relationship Counseling is to be given some tools on how to repair the damage so you can become united again.
Couples and Individuals can benefit from my experience and training in trauma process through IFS (Internal Family Systems) and EFT.
Relationship distress is common and most people who find they are having relationship issues are struggling to understand how to fix things. People who need a couples therapist have normally experienced the toxic cycle of arguing and/or withdrawing from the relationship. Common relationship issues include emotional disconnection, Infidelity recovery, intimacy issues which results in communication breakdown. The goal of Relationship Counseling is to be given some tools on how to repair the damage so you can become united again.
(02) 4071 6217 View (02) 4071 6217
Photo of Kim O'Donnell, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Kim O'Donnell
Counsellor, ACA-L1
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My method incorporates somatic, body-based exercises, NeuroAffective Touch Therapy, Internal Family Systems, EFT/Tapping and Jungian concepts.
The one constant we all share, regardless of our gender, wealth, race, location or religious beliefs is that we will spend our life in our body. This will also be one of the most confronting, challenging and potentially beautiful relationships we'll ever experience. Can we fully embrace our body? Can we come to terms with the social and cultural factors surrounding our body and, when the time comes to leave our body, will we do so with love and gratitude for how it helped us to connect with ourselves and others? Let's explore those questions together.
My method incorporates somatic, body-based exercises, NeuroAffective Touch Therapy, Internal Family Systems, EFT/Tapping and Jungian concepts.
The one constant we all share, regardless of our gender, wealth, race, location or religious beliefs is that we will spend our life in our body. This will also be one of the most confronting, challenging and potentially beautiful relationships we'll ever experience. Can we fully embrace our body? Can we come to terms with the social and cultural factors surrounding our body and, when the time comes to leave our body, will we do so with love and gratitude for how it helped us to connect with ourselves and others? Let's explore those questions together.
(07) 3050 0663 View (07) 3050 0663
Photo of Scott Tisdell - Hopeplus Counselling, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Hopeplus Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Toronto, NSW 2283
Personal experience with separation & divorce, blended family issues, family disability, redundancy & career change, anxiety & depression, religious/church difficulties.
I listen without judgement, in complete confidence & safety. I particularly get the challenges that men face - at home, to succeed at work, to provide for and connect with the family, to balance work and play in a healthy way. More than 80% of my clients are men, many appointments though organised by their partners who want to help.
Personal experience with separation & divorce, blended family issues, family disability, redundancy & career change, anxiety & depression, religious/church difficulties.
I listen without judgement, in complete confidence & safety. I particularly get the challenges that men face - at home, to succeed at work, to provide for and connect with the family, to balance work and play in a healthy way. More than 80% of my clients are men, many appointments though organised by their partners who want to help.
(02) 4058 3973 View (02) 4058 3973
Photo of Georgia Tranthem, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Georgia Tranthem
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Broadmeadow, NSW 2292
This is done through holding curiosity and exploring early life experiences and family of origin, a person's current context, and identifying current strengths and resources.
My work is informed by modalities that aim to promote, sustain and enhance wellbeing in individuals and families. I work from a systemic and relational frame to understand an individual’s relationships within their context. I provide a safe place to support self-awareness, self-compassion and to externalise the different parts seeking better functioning.
This is done through holding curiosity and exploring early life experiences and family of origin, a person's current context, and identifying current strengths and resources.
My work is informed by modalities that aim to promote, sustain and enhance wellbeing in individuals and families. I work from a systemic and relational frame to understand an individual’s relationships within their context. I provide a safe place to support self-awareness, self-compassion and to externalise the different parts seeking better functioning.
(02) 4077 2849 View (02) 4077 2849

See more therapy options for Hunter Region

Family Therapy Counsellors

What do family therapists do?

A family therapist facilitates the process of understanding and improving how a family functions. The therapist will help family members develop empathy for one another. They’ll seek to understand existing patterns, misunderstandings, and conflicts that arise, in order to help the family arrive at a realistic, unified understanding and develop the coping skills they need to build stronger relationships.

How long does therapy for families take to work?

Therapy manifests differently in every family; a common time frame is 12 weekly sessions, but some families may see improvement after just a few weeks. Families should discuss their goals with the therapist at the beginning of the process and periodically revisit those goals to assess their progress together.

How can you encourage a family member to attend family therapy?

You can encourage family members to attend therapy by expressing with both love and concern the challenges you see and explaining how a therapist could help the family navigate those challenges together. An outside perspective can help everyone feel heard, get on the same page, and develop new skills. If family members are still hesitant, it may be helpful to emphasize that family therapy is short-term—it won’t last forever.

Is therapy for families effective?

Family therapy can significantly improve family dynamics and relationships. Research suggests that family therapy can help individuals understand their role in the family, communicate and solve problems together, reduce conflict and draw boundaries when necessary, and develop coping skills for stressors, major life changes, and mental or physical illnesses within the family.