Attachment-based Psychologists and Therapists in Kogarah, NSW

Photo of Rachel Pollard, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Rachel Pollard
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Kogarah, NSW 2217
Rachel is a Psychologist at the Australian Institute for Human Wellness. Rachel has completed a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) at the Australian Catholic University, and both a Graduate Diploma of Psychological Science and Master of Psychology (Clinical) at Bond University. Rachel’s approach to treatment is trauma informed, warm, and non-judgemental. She ensures compassionate, empathetic care, regardless of presentation or concern. Rachel enjoys working with clients across the life span, delivering both individual and group-based therapy. She has previous experience working in both education and private practice settings.
Rachel is a Psychologist at the Australian Institute for Human Wellness. Rachel has completed a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) at the Australian Catholic University, and both a Graduate Diploma of Psychological Science and Master of Psychology (Clinical) at Bond University. Rachel’s approach to treatment is trauma informed, warm, and non-judgemental. She ensures compassionate, empathetic care, regardless of presentation or concern. Rachel enjoys working with clients across the life span, delivering both individual and group-based therapy. She has previous experience working in both education and private practice settings.
(02) 8105 5795 View (02) 8105 5795
Photo of Lynda Daniels, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Lynda Daniels
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Kogarah, NSW 2217
Lynda is a psychologist (clinical registrar) at the Australian Institute for Human Wellness. She has a warm, non-judgemental therapeutic style, drawing on her life experience and empathetic nature to help clients work towards achieving their therapeutic goals within the framework of evidence-based psychological therapy. Lynda completed her Masters of Clinical Psychology at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS). Prior to this Lynda completed her undergraduate psychology studies at Monash University and the Australian College of Applied Psychology (ACAP), and her undergraduate science degree at the University of Wollongong.
Lynda is a psychologist (clinical registrar) at the Australian Institute for Human Wellness. She has a warm, non-judgemental therapeutic style, drawing on her life experience and empathetic nature to help clients work towards achieving their therapeutic goals within the framework of evidence-based psychological therapy. Lynda completed her Masters of Clinical Psychology at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS). Prior to this Lynda completed her undergraduate psychology studies at Monash University and the Australian College of Applied Psychology (ACAP), and her undergraduate science degree at the University of Wollongong.
(02) 8105 6531 View (02) 8105 6531
Photo of Neha Kapoor - Neha Kapoor | Novo Empower Counselling, Counsellor, MPsych, PACFA
Neha Kapoor | Novo Empower Counselling
Counsellor, MPsych, PACFA
Kogarah, NSW 2217
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Psychotherapist and owner of Novo Empower Counselling. I have over a decade of experience empowering and guiding couples and individuals through the intricate pathways of life and relationships. I utilise a diverse array of proven approaches to create tailored programs that unlock insights, resolve conflicts, and nurture growth. I offer both in-person and online counselling options to accommodate different needs of my clients.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Psychotherapist and owner of Novo Empower Counselling. I have over a decade of experience empowering and guiding couples and individuals through the intricate pathways of life and relationships. I utilise a diverse array of proven approaches to create tailored programs that unlock insights, resolve conflicts, and nurture growth. I offer both in-person and online counselling options to accommodate different needs of my clients.
0410 637 225 View 0410 637 225
Photo of Mona Mattar - Lighthouse Therapeutic, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Lighthouse Therapeutic
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Kogarah, NSW 2217
Are you finding it hard to cope with day-to-day stressors? Are you struggling with food and body image, such as restricting, bingeing, purging, or yo-yo dieting? Do intrusive thoughts, images, or compulsions feel like they are taking over your life? Perhaps your use of drugs or alcohol has increased or feels out of control, or your anxiety is holding you back. Maybe you are wanting to foster stronger relationships and find more effective ways to deal with conflict, regulate emotions, or assert boundaries.
Are you finding it hard to cope with day-to-day stressors? Are you struggling with food and body image, such as restricting, bingeing, purging, or yo-yo dieting? Do intrusive thoughts, images, or compulsions feel like they are taking over your life? Perhaps your use of drugs or alcohol has increased or feels out of control, or your anxiety is holding you back. Maybe you are wanting to foster stronger relationships and find more effective ways to deal with conflict, regulate emotions, or assert boundaries.
0460 832 082 View 0460 832 082
Photo of Georgia Ashworth, Psychologist
Georgia Ashworth
Psychologist
1 Endorsed
Kogarah, NSW 2217
Georgia is a psychologist at the Australian Institute for Human Wellness. She has a genuine and empathetic therapeutic style, committed to providing a non-judgemental space to achieve therapeutic goals through evidence-based psychological therapy. Georgia is a registered psychologist and clinical psychology registrar who completed her Masters of Clinical Psychology at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), as well as previous studies in psychology at Macquarie University (MQ) and the Australian College of Applied Psychology (ACAP). She has an interest in public health, having completed research on gambling and drug addictions.
Georgia is a psychologist at the Australian Institute for Human Wellness. She has a genuine and empathetic therapeutic style, committed to providing a non-judgemental space to achieve therapeutic goals through evidence-based psychological therapy. Georgia is a registered psychologist and clinical psychology registrar who completed her Masters of Clinical Psychology at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), as well as previous studies in psychology at Macquarie University (MQ) and the Australian College of Applied Psychology (ACAP). She has an interest in public health, having completed research on gambling and drug addictions.
(02) 8105 5765 View (02) 8105 5765
Photo of Alyssia Simos, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Alyssia Simos
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Kogarah, NSW 2217
Alyssia is a genuine, warm and relatable therapist who utilises a collaborative approach to therapy. She introduces evidence-based skills in a thoughtful and tailored manner, as you work together to overcome your specific challenges. Alyssia has experience across both public and private sectors and works with a range of psychological difficulties including depression, anxiety, self-harm post-traumatic stress disorder, complex trauma, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, learning difficulties, autism spectrum disorder, difficulties with emotion regulation, personality disorders, addiction, and chronic pain.
Alyssia is a genuine, warm and relatable therapist who utilises a collaborative approach to therapy. She introduces evidence-based skills in a thoughtful and tailored manner, as you work together to overcome your specific challenges. Alyssia has experience across both public and private sectors and works with a range of psychological difficulties including depression, anxiety, self-harm post-traumatic stress disorder, complex trauma, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, learning difficulties, autism spectrum disorder, difficulties with emotion regulation, personality disorders, addiction, and chronic pain.
(02) 8105 5715 View (02) 8105 5715
Photo of Steven Passfield, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Steven Passfield
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Kogarah, NSW 2217
Steven is a psychologist who provides a calming presence to aid individuals understand and resolve their struggles within a relaxed environment. Steven emphasises the individuality of each client to ensure that they are seen as more than a diagnosis and receive an intervention tailored to their needs. Steven has completed a Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) and Master of Clinical Psychology. Steven has had experience working within public and private settings to address a variety of presenting issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma.
Steven is a psychologist who provides a calming presence to aid individuals understand and resolve their struggles within a relaxed environment. Steven emphasises the individuality of each client to ensure that they are seen as more than a diagnosis and receive an intervention tailored to their needs. Steven has completed a Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) and Master of Clinical Psychology. Steven has had experience working within public and private settings to address a variety of presenting issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma.
(02) 8105 6288 View (02) 8105 6288
Photo of JESSICA LAUNDY
JESSICA LAUNDY
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kogarah, NSW 2217
I work exclusively with young children aged 0–5, including autistic children and those with differences in communication, social interaction, and early learning. My work is guided by the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM), a play-based, relationship-focused approach grounded in child development and family life. I work closely with parents to provide clear guidance and practical strategies that fit naturally into everyday routines.
I work exclusively with young children aged 0–5, including autistic children and those with differences in communication, social interaction, and early learning. My work is guided by the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM), a play-based, relationship-focused approach grounded in child development and family life. I work closely with parents to provide clear guidance and practical strategies that fit naturally into everyday routines.
(02) 8105 5617 View (02) 8105 5617
Photo of Amrita Arvind, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Amrita Arvind
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Kogarah, NSW 2217
I believe that trust is the highest form of human motivation and tricky situations challenge it in ourselves. We can have strengths that are as salient and unique as the barriers we face. My clients can have a good insight into themselves or their situation. They may have qualities that set them up for life or have achievements and yet experience significant setbacks that impact their mental health. I work largely with women navigating their pregnancy, parents with young children (up to 4 yrs), immigrants or people of a multi-racial background navigating change in a personal or professional context.
I believe that trust is the highest form of human motivation and tricky situations challenge it in ourselves. We can have strengths that are as salient and unique as the barriers we face. My clients can have a good insight into themselves or their situation. They may have qualities that set them up for life or have achievements and yet experience significant setbacks that impact their mental health. I work largely with women navigating their pregnancy, parents with young children (up to 4 yrs), immigrants or people of a multi-racial background navigating change in a personal or professional context.
(02) 4307 5406 View (02) 4307 5406
Photo of Breanna Crkovski, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Breanna Crkovski
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Breanna is a clinical psychologist who loves to help people heal from trauma, understand the root causes of their struggles and engage with deep exploration of the self. She works with complex trauma, emotion dysregulation, and maladaptive patterns. She uses a compassionate and trauma informed approach which includes modalities such as EMDR, Schema, and DBT. Goals in therapy with Breanna often involve both healing and self actualisation. Breanna also offers comprehensive diagnostic assessments.
Breanna is a clinical psychologist who loves to help people heal from trauma, understand the root causes of their struggles and engage with deep exploration of the self. She works with complex trauma, emotion dysregulation, and maladaptive patterns. She uses a compassionate and trauma informed approach which includes modalities such as EMDR, Schema, and DBT. Goals in therapy with Breanna often involve both healing and self actualisation. Breanna also offers comprehensive diagnostic assessments.
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Photo of Alena Piccolruaz, Psychologist, MPsych, Assoc MAPS
Alena Piccolruaz
Psychologist, MPsych, Assoc MAPS
Serves Area
I have a special interest in working with children, adolescents, and families in addition to supporting mums and dads through pregnancy and post-pregnancy. Issues treated (but not limited to) include; anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, school issues, suicidal thinking, personality disorder, anger management, gender transitioning, self-harm, grief and loss, work related issues (Workcover accredited psych), life coaching, relationship matters, family mediation, court and legal reports and the teaching of parenting skills. I also offer couples, family and marital therapy. I am also an accredited Supervisor to other psychologists.
I have a special interest in working with children, adolescents, and families in addition to supporting mums and dads through pregnancy and post-pregnancy. Issues treated (but not limited to) include; anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, school issues, suicidal thinking, personality disorder, anger management, gender transitioning, self-harm, grief and loss, work related issues (Workcover accredited psych), life coaching, relationship matters, family mediation, court and legal reports and the teaching of parenting skills. I also offer couples, family and marital therapy. I am also an accredited Supervisor to other psychologists.
(02) 9159 6930 View (02) 9159 6930
Photo of Gerard Gayton, Counsellor, MC, PACFA
Gerard Gayton
Counsellor, MC, PACFA
Serves Area
Making sense of chaos, disorder and pain in our lives is deeply rewarding but difficult work, we take time to slow things down and let the subconscious speak and allow the emotions and feelings to be there and communicate their story. This allows an encounter, one which allows moving forward.
Making sense of chaos, disorder and pain in our lives is deeply rewarding but difficult work, we take time to slow things down and let the subconscious speak and allow the emotions and feelings to be there and communicate their story. This allows an encounter, one which allows moving forward.
(02) 8105 6231 View (02) 8105 6231
Photo of Wade Eames - Next Steps Counselling and Psychotherapy , Counsellor, PACFA
Next Steps Counselling and Psychotherapy
Counsellor, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Many people I work with feel stuck, disconnected, or burnt out. They might be dealing with trauma, addiction, relationship stress, or a sense of having lost direction. Some don’t know where to begin only that things can’t keep going the way they have. Whether it’s processing pain, finding meaning, or understanding old patterns, therapy offers a place to slow down and make sense of what’s been happening.
Many people I work with feel stuck, disconnected, or burnt out. They might be dealing with trauma, addiction, relationship stress, or a sense of having lost direction. Some don’t know where to begin only that things can’t keep going the way they have. Whether it’s processing pain, finding meaning, or understanding old patterns, therapy offers a place to slow down and make sense of what’s been happening.
(02) 9538 7432 View (02) 9538 7432
Photo of Metaxia Toumbelekis, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Metaxia Toumbelekis
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Welcome to my boutique Clinical Psychology practice. I am a warm, empathic Clinical Psychologist, and a mother of two young children. I have worked in community, public and private hospital settings, with experience working with children, adolescents and adults providing individual, parenting and group-based interventions. I have a particular interest working with adults who have experienced significant stressors or trauma in their life, who are struggling with feelings of anxiety or depression and with individuals who generally would like to gain further insight or coping strategies to deal with life’s challenges.
Welcome to my boutique Clinical Psychology practice. I am a warm, empathic Clinical Psychologist, and a mother of two young children. I have worked in community, public and private hospital settings, with experience working with children, adolescents and adults providing individual, parenting and group-based interventions. I have a particular interest working with adults who have experienced significant stressors or trauma in their life, who are struggling with feelings of anxiety or depression and with individuals who generally would like to gain further insight or coping strategies to deal with life’s challenges.
(02) 8000 1569 View (02) 8000 1569
Photo of Michelle Lin, Social Worker, AASW
Michelle Lin
Social Worker, AASW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialise in individual and relationship/family counselling, Anti-Oppressive Practice, relationships, self-growth and identity, grief & loss, work-life stuff, victim-survivors of interpersonal and systemic violence (both domestic violence and structural oppression i.e. racism), cultural identity, the LGBTIQA+ community, family of origin issues, and relational trauma such as childhood abuse or neglect. I enjoy working with people to really unpack their experiences of relationships and sense of self. I also provide clinical supervision for students, new grads, activists and peers working in helping roles.
I specialise in individual and relationship/family counselling, Anti-Oppressive Practice, relationships, self-growth and identity, grief & loss, work-life stuff, victim-survivors of interpersonal and systemic violence (both domestic violence and structural oppression i.e. racism), cultural identity, the LGBTIQA+ community, family of origin issues, and relational trauma such as childhood abuse or neglect. I enjoy working with people to really unpack their experiences of relationships and sense of self. I also provide clinical supervision for students, new grads, activists and peers working in helping roles.
(02) 8074 5461 View (02) 8074 5461
Photo of Tyla Stroebel, Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Tyla Stroebel
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I’m Tyla, a psychologist with lived experience and a passion for helping people understand the way their unique brain works. I focus on neurodiversity-affirming assessments and support for children, teens, and adults, both in person and online. I have a special interest in assessing the more internalized presentations of Adhd and autism. My approach is strengths-based, collaborative, and respectful of each individual’s lived experience, including the ways we mask, cope, and thrive in a world that often wasn’t designed for neurodivergent minds.
I’m Tyla, a psychologist with lived experience and a passion for helping people understand the way their unique brain works. I focus on neurodiversity-affirming assessments and support for children, teens, and adults, both in person and online. I have a special interest in assessing the more internalized presentations of Adhd and autism. My approach is strengths-based, collaborative, and respectful of each individual’s lived experience, including the ways we mask, cope, and thrive in a world that often wasn’t designed for neurodivergent minds.
(02) 8105 6892 View (02) 8105 6892
Photo of Sofia Awadalla, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Sofia Awadalla
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Serves Area
Hello and Welcome. You've found a safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings. My name is Sofia and I am an accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Counsellor, Clinical Supervisor and Leadership Wellness Coach.
Hello and Welcome. You've found a safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings. My name is Sofia and I am an accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Counsellor, Clinical Supervisor and Leadership Wellness Coach.
0422 225 511 View 0422 225 511
Photo of Amina Hallak, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Amina Hallak
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a qualified counsellor and a registered supervisor with the aca for counsellors. I have over 15 years of experience. I have specialised in marriage counselling, family therapy, anxiety, depression and teenage counselling. I have also had a lot of experience with issues arising within families in the Islamic community.
I am a qualified counsellor and a registered supervisor with the aca for counsellors. I have over 15 years of experience. I have specialised in marriage counselling, family therapy, anxiety, depression and teenage counselling. I have also had a lot of experience with issues arising within families in the Islamic community.
(02) 8766 0476 View (02) 8766 0476
Photo of Anthony Colantuono, Social Worker, AMHSW
Anthony Colantuono
Social Worker, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
When working with children and adolescents, Anthony integrates attachment-based and systemic approaches that involve both the young person and their caregiver.
Anthony is a warm and person centred counsellor who offers evidence-based therapy grounded in empathy and respect. He draws on a range of well-researched, Medicare-approved approaches including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, and Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) to support meaningful and lasting change.
When working with children and adolescents, Anthony integrates attachment-based and systemic approaches that involve both the young person and their caregiver.
Anthony is a warm and person centred counsellor who offers evidence-based therapy grounded in empathy and respect. He draws on a range of well-researched, Medicare-approved approaches including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, and Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) to support meaningful and lasting change.
(02) 9538 7967 View (02) 9538 7967
Photo of Anita Calic, Counsellor, ACA-L3
Anita Calic
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Serves Area
Through my therapeutic work I have realised that in order to heal and resolve our deep emotional wounds we must focus on the whole picture, our mind, body and our soul. If we want to create lasting transformation, we must switch off the autopilot, our habitual thoughts and behavioural patterns that have been working against us. We must be willing to take the first steps towards discovering who we truly are. Discovering our true authentic self and our worth, is the most empowering experience that we can achieve on our healing journey. In the words of E. Tolle, “You do not become good by trying to be good, but by finding the goodness
Through my therapeutic work I have realised that in order to heal and resolve our deep emotional wounds we must focus on the whole picture, our mind, body and our soul. If we want to create lasting transformation, we must switch off the autopilot, our habitual thoughts and behavioural patterns that have been working against us. We must be willing to take the first steps towards discovering who we truly are. Discovering our true authentic self and our worth, is the most empowering experience that we can achieve on our healing journey. In the words of E. Tolle, “You do not become good by trying to be good, but by finding the goodness
(02) 8000 1748 View (02) 8000 1748
Attachment-based Therapists
Is attachment-based therapy the same as attachment therapy?
Attachment-based therapy may be confused with what is called “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy”), a discredited and dangerous approach to treating children with attachment disorders, autism, or other mental health concerns. Attachment therapy—not attachment-based therapy—may involve restraining a child, forcing eye contact, and other coercive or abusive techniques. None of these practices are used in attachment-based therapy and the two modalities are in no way related.

What should I expect from attachment-based therapy?
Attachment-based therapy is based on attachment theory, which posits that children’s early relationships with their caregivers strongly influence their ability to navigate the world later in life. Thus, adults who seek attachment-based therapy should expect to deeply explore their childhood, identifying the dynamics or experiences that disrupted their attachment and the steps necessary to overcome challenges that arose as a result. Parents and children should expect to explore the possible factors that disrupted the parent-child relationship and work toward restoring trust and connection.

How long does attachment-based therapy last?
Certain forms of attachment-based therapy, especially those designed for parents and children, last for a set number of sessions; for example, Attachment and Biobehavioural Catch-Up, a specific attachment-based approach for young children who have undergone early adversity, unfolds over 10 one-hour sessions. When attachment-based therapy is practiced on adults or combined with other modalities, it may not last a specific length of time; clients may wish to ask prospective therapists how long they expect treatment to take.

Does attachment-based therapy work?
Most of the research on attachment-based therapy focuses on children and adolescents. Some of this research shows a positive effect, especially for attachment-based family therapy (ABFT). Other studies, however, have found that attachment-based therapy is no more effective than other approaches to childhood depression, anxiety, or suicidality. Less is known about the therapy’s efficacy on adult populations.