Adoption Psychologists and Therapists in Leichhardt, NSW

Photo of Maria Simonetta, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Maria Simonetta
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Leichhardt, NSW 2040
When lingering or reoccurring issues arise they create within us a dissatisfaction about life and how we feel about ourselves. Issues such as relationship difficulties, addictions, career, life transitions, parenting, depression, anxiety, stress, body image, negative beliefs and thoughts, emotional overwhelm, aggression, low energy, impulsivity etc. can affect your self esteem and your ability to think clearly and solve problems effectively. Learning new skills, building on resilience and resources and dealing with past issues that affect your present life can be empowering and create satisfaction and fulfilment in your life.
When lingering or reoccurring issues arise they create within us a dissatisfaction about life and how we feel about ourselves. Issues such as relationship difficulties, addictions, career, life transitions, parenting, depression, anxiety, stress, body image, negative beliefs and thoughts, emotional overwhelm, aggression, low energy, impulsivity etc. can affect your self esteem and your ability to think clearly and solve problems effectively. Learning new skills, building on resilience and resources and dealing with past issues that affect your present life can be empowering and create satisfaction and fulfilment in your life.
(02) 8073 9397 View (02) 8073 9397
Photo of Amanda Joy Robb, Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
Amanda Joy Robb
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
EMDR/Trauma-Informed/CBT/Narrative Therapies & Clinical Supervision Offered. Joy Through Therapy is founded by Amanda Joy Robb, a renowned and innovative Registered Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor. Amanda specialises in Trauma, Sexology, Sexual Health and Relationships, and Supervision. Throughout these three domains, Amanda offers services for Trauma based Therapies, Sex & Relationship Therapy and Clinical Individual and Group Supervision, as well as Consultation training services.
EMDR/Trauma-Informed/CBT/Narrative Therapies & Clinical Supervision Offered. Joy Through Therapy is founded by Amanda Joy Robb, a renowned and innovative Registered Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor. Amanda specialises in Trauma, Sexology, Sexual Health and Relationships, and Supervision. Throughout these three domains, Amanda offers services for Trauma based Therapies, Sex & Relationship Therapy and Clinical Individual and Group Supervision, as well as Consultation training services.
(02) 9158 6068 View (02) 9158 6068
Photo of Paula Parmakellis, Social Worker, AMHSW
Paula Parmakellis
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
Are you finding it difficult to manage your intense emotions? Have you experienced trauma in your life which is unresolved and affecting your life now? Or maybe you are at a point in life where you maybe feeling confused or just want to understand yourself better. I am an Accredited Mental Health Social worker with over 23 years experience in various roles with Children and Adolescents in Government and NGOs and counselling experience with Adolescents, families, ADF and their families. I am warm, empathic, authentic and enjoy a good laugh. I would love to hear from you if you feel I would be a good fit.
Are you finding it difficult to manage your intense emotions? Have you experienced trauma in your life which is unresolved and affecting your life now? Or maybe you are at a point in life where you maybe feeling confused or just want to understand yourself better. I am an Accredited Mental Health Social worker with over 23 years experience in various roles with Children and Adolescents in Government and NGOs and counselling experience with Adolescents, families, ADF and their families. I am warm, empathic, authentic and enjoy a good laugh. I would love to hear from you if you feel I would be a good fit.
(02) 9100 0106 View (02) 9100 0106
Photo of Jane Rabie, Social Worker, AASW
Jane Rabie
Social Worker, AASW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Often children don’t have words to describe their experiences and feelings and instead reveal them through behaviours which can be misunderstood. They may get into trouble, be labelled, or disconnect. I work with children and families just like this. As a carer, reaching out for support can be the hardest step. I work closely with you and your child through Play Therapy which is relationship based therapy for children aged 3-12 years. Play is a child’s natural way of communicating and Play Therapy creates the environment where the therapist enters into a child’s world and understands the experience from their perspective.
Often children don’t have words to describe their experiences and feelings and instead reveal them through behaviours which can be misunderstood. They may get into trouble, be labelled, or disconnect. I work with children and families just like this. As a carer, reaching out for support can be the hardest step. I work closely with you and your child through Play Therapy which is relationship based therapy for children aged 3-12 years. Play is a child’s natural way of communicating and Play Therapy creates the environment where the therapist enters into a child’s world and understands the experience from their perspective.
(02) 9100 0607 View (02) 9100 0607
Photo of Bronwyn Davies Glover - Bronwyn Davies Glover - As You Are Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Bronwyn Davies Glover - As You Are Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Bronwyn. I am an integrative, empathic, person-centred therapist bringing holistic, somatic, creative and dynamic approaches to the intersections of anti-oppressive, trauma informed practice. I offer inclusive, accessible therapy that values every aspect of the client. This means that I view each client as a whole person with a unique worldview informed by the stories of their mind-body experiences. Each unique individual requires a uniquely individual approach and this approach is grounded in the principles of trauma care; safety, trustworthiness, collaboration, empowerment and choice.
Hi, I'm Bronwyn. I am an integrative, empathic, person-centred therapist bringing holistic, somatic, creative and dynamic approaches to the intersections of anti-oppressive, trauma informed practice. I offer inclusive, accessible therapy that values every aspect of the client. This means that I view each client as a whole person with a unique worldview informed by the stories of their mind-body experiences. Each unique individual requires a uniquely individual approach and this approach is grounded in the principles of trauma care; safety, trustworthiness, collaboration, empowerment and choice.
(02) 8074 1609 View (02) 8074 1609
Photo of Michael Grunwald, Psychologist, Assoc MAPS
Michael Grunwald
Psychologist, Assoc MAPS
Serves Area
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, neurodiversity (e.g. ADHD), sex/relationship/men's issues, workplace stress/bullying, hoarding, parenting and adoption.
After getting to know each other, we can explore the deeper foundations underlying your thoughts, emotions and behaviours, before using various approaches to provide you with simple yet effective methods for reducing acute symptoms in the short term, then transforming ways of thinking and feeling leading to more functional and satisfying longterm behaviours.
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, neurodiversity (e.g. ADHD), sex/relationship/men's issues, workplace stress/bullying, hoarding, parenting and adoption.
After getting to know each other, we can explore the deeper foundations underlying your thoughts, emotions and behaviours, before using various approaches to provide you with simple yet effective methods for reducing acute symptoms in the short term, then transforming ways of thinking and feeling leading to more functional and satisfying longterm behaviours.
(02) 8806 0512 View (02) 8806 0512

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Caroline Spiers, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Caroline Spiers
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Serves Area
Specialism in working with adoptees/people affected by adoption, donor conception, LGBTQIA/poly community, ASD, ADHD, complex traumas.
Are you struggling with your life and feel you might have unresolved issues, trauma, relationship or neurodiversity challenges or managing family dynamics/adoptee/grief and loss, bereavement or cultural issues? LGBTQIA+ needs that aren’t being seen or understood? Effective therapy will allow you space to talk and be heard and validated, guide you at your own pace on your journey and provide safety and non judgement to explore what can be achieved. This is the foundation of my practice - always from a trauma informed perspective.
Specialism in working with adoptees/people affected by adoption, donor conception, LGBTQIA/poly community, ASD, ADHD, complex traumas.
Are you struggling with your life and feel you might have unresolved issues, trauma, relationship or neurodiversity challenges or managing family dynamics/adoptee/grief and loss, bereavement or cultural issues? LGBTQIA+ needs that aren’t being seen or understood? Effective therapy will allow you space to talk and be heard and validated, guide you at your own pace on your journey and provide safety and non judgement to explore what can be achieved. This is the foundation of my practice - always from a trauma informed perspective.
(03) 7003 2855 View (03) 7003 2855
Photo of Renee Claire Voice, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Renee Claire Voice
Psychologist, PsyBA General
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 Ché Stevenson, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Ché Stevenson
Psychotherapist, PACFA
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
One of the barriers to self-care is allowing yourself to go into the depths of your experiences. Often, we are challenged to explore and understand this profound chasm, to touch what is held there, to hear its messages, and to connect with compassion to the raw emotions that have been lying dormant for years or just surfaced. By peering into the abyss, we can gain deeper understanding of ourselves and insight into the meaning of our lives; transforming and opening up possibilities the future could hold for us.
One of the barriers to self-care is allowing yourself to go into the depths of your experiences. Often, we are challenged to explore and understand this profound chasm, to touch what is held there, to hear its messages, and to connect with compassion to the raw emotions that have been lying dormant for years or just surfaced. By peering into the abyss, we can gain deeper understanding of ourselves and insight into the meaning of our lives; transforming and opening up possibilities the future could hold for us.
(03) 9118 9050 View (03) 9118 9050
Photo of Kimberley Lee, Counsellor, PACFA
Kimberley Lee
Counsellor, PACFA
2 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 can make change with support and care through the process. I continue to develop my practice with ongoing training in somatic psychotherapy (2021-ongoing), am a certified trauma-informed yoga and meditation teacher, and a communications specialist. I also offer integrative lymphatic drainage massage.
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 can make change with support and care through the process. I continue to develop my practice with ongoing training in somatic psychotherapy (2021-ongoing), am a certified trauma-informed yoga and meditation teacher, and a communications specialist. I also offer integrative lymphatic drainage massage.
(02) 8806 0548 View (02) 8806 0548
Photo of Rachel Agnew - Rachel Agnew - New Beginnings Psychotherapy, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Rachel Agnew - New Beginnings Psychotherapy
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Online Only
Hi, I’m Rachel. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or like something just isn’t quite right, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to figure it out on your own. I’m a warm, down-to-earth therapist who offers a safe, non-judgemental space to talk things through at your pace. I work in a person-centred, trauma-informed way, which means I listen deeply, value your uniqueness, and support you to understand yourself more fully, not just at a cognitive level, but emotionally and relationally too. Together, we’ll explore whatever you're carrying and move towards healing and clarity.
Hi, I’m Rachel. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or like something just isn’t quite right, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to figure it out on your own. I’m a warm, down-to-earth therapist who offers a safe, non-judgemental space to talk things through at your pace. I work in a person-centred, trauma-informed way, which means I listen deeply, value your uniqueness, and support you to understand yourself more fully, not just at a cognitive level, but emotionally and relationally too. Together, we’ll explore whatever you're carrying and move towards healing and clarity.
(07) 3477 9543 View (07) 3477 9543
Photo of Indigo Melrose, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Indigo Melrose
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As an experienced psychotherapist, I work with people navigating major life transitions. My therapeutic space is warm and compassionate allowing you to be curious and explore what matters to you. As a PACFA Reg. Clinical member I engage in supervision and professional development. All are essential for me to show up in practice and hold space. My side passions include: co-hosting the 'Mothers at Midnight Podcast' and facilitating 'Grief & Loss' groups.
As an experienced psychotherapist, I work with people navigating major life transitions. My therapeutic space is warm and compassionate allowing you to be curious and explore what matters to you. As a PACFA Reg. Clinical member I engage in supervision and professional development. All are essential for me to show up in practice and hold space. My side passions include: co-hosting the 'Mothers at Midnight Podcast' and facilitating 'Grief & Loss' groups.
(02) 3816 2220 View (02) 3816 2220
Photo of Jenny Lian, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Jenny Lian
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Gladesville, NSW 2111
I am a qualified psychotherapist and counsellor(PACFA No. 27709) who provides therapy in English, Mandarin, Cantonese and Teochew. My lived experience in both Asia and Australia equips me with a strong understanding of cross cultural and migration issues.
I am a qualified psychotherapist and counsellor(PACFA No. 27709) who provides therapy in English, Mandarin, Cantonese and Teochew. My lived experience in both Asia and Australia equips me with a strong understanding of cross cultural and migration issues.
(02) 5118 9019 View (02) 5118 9019
Photo of Dr Liza Chervonsky, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Liza Chervonsky
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Bondi Junction, NSW 2022
I am an experienced clinical psychologist, with a particular interest in working with clients who have difficulties regulating their emotions (anxiety, mood, shame, anger), have interpersonal or relationship difficulties, or personality issues. I find that these people are often misunderstood by others, which leads to them misunderstanding themselves and the origin of their difficulties.
I am an experienced clinical psychologist, with a particular interest in working with clients who have difficulties regulating their emotions (anxiety, mood, shame, anger), have interpersonal or relationship difficulties, or personality issues. I find that these people are often misunderstood by others, which leads to them misunderstanding themselves and the origin of their difficulties.
(02) 8294 6686 View (02) 8294 6686
Photo of Jodie Gale, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Jodie Gale
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Manly, NSW 2095
You may look like you’re coping, but inside you feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or not good enough. You might turn to food for comfort, control, or relief, then feel shame, guilt, or self-criticism afterwards. Many of the women I work with carry the impact of early trauma, emotional neglect, or difficult mother–daughter relationships that continue to shape how they feel about themselves. Some feel stuck in patterns they don’t understand, while others are quietly asking, “who am I, really?” and longing for a deeper, more meaningful connection with themselves, their body, and their inner world.
You may look like you’re coping, but inside you feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or not good enough. You might turn to food for comfort, control, or relief, then feel shame, guilt, or self-criticism afterwards. Many of the women I work with carry the impact of early trauma, emotional neglect, or difficult mother–daughter relationships that continue to shape how they feel about themselves. Some feel stuck in patterns they don’t understand, while others are quietly asking, “who am I, really?” and longing for a deeper, more meaningful connection with themselves, their body, and their inner world.
(02) 8294 7627 View (02) 8294 7627
Photo of Sandra Scott, Psychologist, MAPS
Sandra Scott
Psychologist, MAPS
Serves Area
With a wide knowledge and 20 years clinical experience I use evidence-based therapies personalised to your treatment goals. I work with clients of all ages on all manner of complex concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, troubled relationships, grief, loss & infertility. I provide psychological assessment and diagnostic services to those seeking to understand the nuances of ADHD, ASD, LD (dyslexia) and other developmental difficulties. My specialised training in mind body connection, hypnosis and nutrition complements treatment for those seeking a holistic approach.
With a wide knowledge and 20 years clinical experience I use evidence-based therapies personalised to your treatment goals. I work with clients of all ages on all manner of complex concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, troubled relationships, grief, loss & infertility. I provide psychological assessment and diagnostic services to those seeking to understand the nuances of ADHD, ASD, LD (dyslexia) and other developmental difficulties. My specialised training in mind body connection, hypnosis and nutrition complements treatment for those seeking a holistic approach.
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Photo of Leonie Catherine Wolff, Psychologist, MA, MAPS
Leonie Catherine Wolff
Psychologist, MA, MAPS
Matraville, NSW 2036
Leonie has lived in the local area her whole life and has been practicing in Matraville for over 20 years. Leonie holds a Masters Degree in Psychology from Sydney University, is AHPRA, NDIS and SIRA accredited. Through her career Leonie has assisted patients of virtually every cultural background and believes the diversity of her patients has led to her skill and strength as a practitioner.
Leonie has lived in the local area her whole life and has been practicing in Matraville for over 20 years. Leonie holds a Masters Degree in Psychology from Sydney University, is AHPRA, NDIS and SIRA accredited. Through her career Leonie has assisted patients of virtually every cultural background and believes the diversity of her patients has led to her skill and strength as a practitioner.
(02) 9053 4316 View (02) 9053 4316
Photo of Michael Ossher, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Michael Ossher
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Sydney, NSW 2000
My role is to listen, to understand and to identify what it is that you seek help with. Our work will be about building an understanding of what is going on internally and externally for you, in particular, the things about yourself that you may not be aware of. As we gain this understanding of you, it becomes easier for you and I to make sense of what is happening within you, why you act and feel a particular way in certain situations and relationships. By understanding and acting on these things, you will be able to bring about change in your life.
My role is to listen, to understand and to identify what it is that you seek help with. Our work will be about building an understanding of what is going on internally and externally for you, in particular, the things about yourself that you may not be aware of. As we gain this understanding of you, it becomes easier for you and I to make sense of what is happening within you, why you act and feel a particular way in certain situations and relationships. By understanding and acting on these things, you will be able to bring about change in your life.
(02) 9159 6907 View (02) 9159 6907
Photo of Lorna Saxbee - Lorna Saxbee Counselling & Psychotherapy Practice, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
My practices are in Bondi Junction, Malabar & Yajilarra Healing Retreat in Rainbow Flat. A range of therapy models are used depending on my client's needs. From intensive 5 day EMDR Trauma Healing Retreats, Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, or regular Counselling & Psychotherapy models. I provide flexibility for client's who want short term help around a particular issue or those who prefer a longer term psychotherapy focus. I strive to support clients in living the best life they have imagined. ​Helping them to heal, recognise their strengths, connect to their authentic selves, empowering them to truely listen & trust themselves.
My practices are in Bondi Junction, Malabar & Yajilarra Healing Retreat in Rainbow Flat. A range of therapy models are used depending on my client's needs. From intensive 5 day EMDR Trauma Healing Retreats, Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, or regular Counselling & Psychotherapy models. I provide flexibility for client's who want short term help around a particular issue or those who prefer a longer term psychotherapy focus. I strive to support clients in living the best life they have imagined. ​Helping them to heal, recognise their strengths, connect to their authentic selves, empowering them to truely listen & trust themselves.
(02) 9100 0892 View (02) 9100 0892
Photo of Rabia Muqtadir, Counsellor, PhD, PACFA
Rabia Muqtadir
Counsellor, PhD, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
At times, life can feel like a lot to handle. You might be dealing with stress, anxiety, low mood, or challenges in your relationships that leave you feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure where to turn. If any of this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. I work with individuals/couples/families from all walks of life, including those navigating cultural or family expectations that can impact confidence, relationships, and sense of self. I offer a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental space where you can explore, heal and grow.
At times, life can feel like a lot to handle. You might be dealing with stress, anxiety, low mood, or challenges in your relationships that leave you feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure where to turn. If any of this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. I work with individuals/couples/families from all walks of life, including those navigating cultural or family expectations that can impact confidence, relationships, and sense of self. I offer a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental space where you can explore, heal and grow.
(02) 5133 8847 View (02) 5133 8847

See more therapy options for Leichhardt

Adoption Therapists
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.