Body Image Psychologists and Therapists in Leichhardt, NSW

Amber Rules
Psychotherapist, PACFA
5 Endorsed
Leichhardt, NSW 2040
Are you struggling with substances, gambling, smoking or other patterns that feel impossible to change? Or perhaps you're affected by someone else's addictive behaviours? As an experienced addiction support specialist, I help you understand these patterns and manage the chaos they create. Together, we'll combine practical education, evidence-based strategies, and counselling to help you make choices that align with the life you want. I also work with clients experiencing challenges including ADHD, chronic pain, relationship difficulties, and complex mental health diagnoses.
Are you struggling with substances, gambling, smoking or other patterns that feel impossible to change? Or perhaps you're affected by someone else's addictive behaviours? As an experienced addiction support specialist, I help you understand these patterns and manage the chaos they create. Together, we'll combine practical education, evidence-based strategies, and counselling to help you make choices that align with the life you want. I also work with clients experiencing challenges including ADHD, chronic pain, relationship difficulties, and complex mental health diagnoses.
(02) 9158 6064 View (02) 9158 6064
Ann-Maree Whelan
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Leichhardt, NSW 2040
Ann-Maree is a warm and experienced psychologist, who works from a strengths-based and trauma-informed perspective. She works collaboratively with clients using a wide range of evidence-based treatment approaches tailored to their individual needs. She creates a safe, non-judgemental and supportive therapeutic space where individuals can develop insight and create meaningful change in their lives and relationships. Ann-Maree has been registered since 2009, and has extensive experience in working with clients through life experiences such as neurodiversity, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, trauma, grief and loss.
Ann-Maree is a warm and experienced psychologist, who works from a strengths-based and trauma-informed perspective. She works collaboratively with clients using a wide range of evidence-based treatment approaches tailored to their individual needs. She creates a safe, non-judgemental and supportive therapeutic space where individuals can develop insight and create meaningful change in their lives and relationships. Ann-Maree has been registered since 2009, and has extensive experience in working with clients through life experiences such as neurodiversity, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, trauma, grief and loss.
(02) 9158 6228 View (02) 9158 6228
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
Patrick Watts
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Patrick works with adults experiencing a diverse range of issues, including low mood and depression, along with anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety, OCD, social anxiety and phobias. He can also assist with adjustment and moving forward following difficult life events. He strives to bring a warm, compassionate and genuine approach to therapy, and building a supportive relationship is at the heart of his work. His experience means he is well-equipped to support those moving through the challenges of life whilst seeking to build meaning and purpose along the way.
Patrick works with adults experiencing a diverse range of issues, including low mood and depression, along with anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety, OCD, social anxiety and phobias. He can also assist with adjustment and moving forward following difficult life events. He strives to bring a warm, compassionate and genuine approach to therapy, and building a supportive relationship is at the heart of his work. His experience means he is well-equipped to support those moving through the challenges of life whilst seeking to build meaning and purpose along the way.
(02) 9100 0206 View (02) 9100 0206
Kylie Andersen
Counsellor, MC, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Maybe you struggle with your body image, or you’re caught in a cycle with food that leaves you feeling out of control.
I work with sensitive, thoughtful adults who feel stuck: in their relationship with food or their body, in relationships with others, in work, or in life more broadly. My clients often know something needs to change, but haven't been able to get there through willpower or self-help alone. We slow things down and get curious about what's going on underneath.
Maybe you struggle with your body image, or you’re caught in a cycle with food that leaves you feeling out of control.
I work with sensitive, thoughtful adults who feel stuck: in their relationship with food or their body, in relationships with others, in work, or in life more broadly. My clients often know something needs to change, but haven't been able to get there through willpower or self-help alone. We slow things down and get curious about what's going on underneath.
(02) 9158 6206 View (02) 9158 6206
John Hristoforidis
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
Clients present to therapy for a variety of reasons. I provide a safe, non-judgemental space that meets where the client is at, and gently explores what's happening in their life. Together we can work towards goals that are alligned with their hopes, aspirations, desires or needs; to improve connection with the self, interpersonal relationships and the interplay with their surrounding social world.
Clients present to therapy for a variety of reasons. I provide a safe, non-judgemental space that meets where the client is at, and gently explores what's happening in their life. Together we can work towards goals that are alligned with their hopes, aspirations, desires or needs; to improve connection with the self, interpersonal relationships and the interplay with their surrounding social world.
(02) 9100 0965 View (02) 9100 0965
Sophie Lynn-Evans
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Leichhardt, NSW 2040
I specialise in perinatal mental health and Women's general wellbeing. I deeply value supporting women throughout their journey towards and into parenthood, from trying to conceive, through pregnancy, into the postpartum space- helping my clients navigate the challenges and complex experiences that accompany this unique time. Areas of special interest include: preconception (e.g. fertility challenges), pregnancy and postpartum anxiety, depression, and OCD, grief and loss (including miscarriage, stillbirth, termination for medical reasons, infant death), birth trauma, parent-infant attachment and pregnancy/parenting adjustment.
I specialise in perinatal mental health and Women's general wellbeing. I deeply value supporting women throughout their journey towards and into parenthood, from trying to conceive, through pregnancy, into the postpartum space- helping my clients navigate the challenges and complex experiences that accompany this unique time. Areas of special interest include: preconception (e.g. fertility challenges), pregnancy and postpartum anxiety, depression, and OCD, grief and loss (including miscarriage, stillbirth, termination for medical reasons, infant death), birth trauma, parent-infant attachment and pregnancy/parenting adjustment.
(02) 8000 1038 View (02) 8000 1038
Dan Macdonald
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Many of the people I work with feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from themselves or others. Some know exactly what’s going on and others just sense that things could feel better. We might explore anxiety, OCD, trauma, burnout, identity, relationship challenges, or something else entirely. I see individuals (16+) and people in relationships, including couples, and I offer affirming assessments for autism, AuDHD, and learning differences. At Lavender Psychology, you're welcome just as you are.
Many of the people I work with feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from themselves or others. Some know exactly what’s going on and others just sense that things could feel better. We might explore anxiety, OCD, trauma, burnout, identity, relationship challenges, or something else entirely. I see individuals (16+) and people in relationships, including couples, and I offer affirming assessments for autism, AuDHD, and learning differences. At Lavender Psychology, you're welcome just as you are.
0450 214 913 View 0450 214 913
Sarah Van De Velde
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with adults who have often felt misunderstood, overwhelmed, or stuck, or who feel their needs may not have been fully met by previous support. Common difficulties include trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, substance use, anger and emotional dysregulation, relationship difficulties, ADHD and grief. I also work with people seeking to understand and change behaviours that have at times affected their relationships, safety, wellbeing, or resulted in contact with legal systems.
I work with adults who have often felt misunderstood, overwhelmed, or stuck, or who feel their needs may not have been fully met by previous support. Common difficulties include trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, substance use, anger and emotional dysregulation, relationship difficulties, ADHD and grief. I also work with people seeking to understand and change behaviours that have at times affected their relationships, safety, wellbeing, or resulted in contact with legal systems.
0400 296 502 View 0400 296 502
Kate Mackie
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
As humans, we will all go through challenging times and need support. Therapeutically, I work to assist the brain and body cope with trauma, challenging emotions and life experiences. I aim to sensitively attune to each person and look to work together to address your concerns. I humanise lived experiences and see the relevance of how our social and cultural context can shape our mood, mental health and recovery. I have special interest and experience working with people who have had a difficult childhood and those affected by trauma including sexual, physical, emotional, psychological & domestic abuse.
As humans, we will all go through challenging times and need support. Therapeutically, I work to assist the brain and body cope with trauma, challenging emotions and life experiences. I aim to sensitively attune to each person and look to work together to address your concerns. I humanise lived experiences and see the relevance of how our social and cultural context can shape our mood, mental health and recovery. I have special interest and experience working with people who have had a difficult childhood and those affected by trauma including sexual, physical, emotional, psychological & domestic abuse.
View
Naomi Crellin
Counsellor, ACA-L1
1 Endorsed
Leichhardt, NSW 2040
I welcome a diverse spectrum of individuals to my practice. My areas of focus include gender, sexuality, anxiety/depression and atypical family and relationship structures. I am a sex positive, body positive, gender-affirming, neurodiversity-affirming, LGBTQIA+ affirming counsellor for 16+ folk looking for warm, non-judgemental support.
I welcome a diverse spectrum of individuals to my practice. My areas of focus include gender, sexuality, anxiety/depression and atypical family and relationship structures. I am a sex positive, body positive, gender-affirming, neurodiversity-affirming, LGBTQIA+ affirming counsellor for 16+ folk looking for warm, non-judgemental support.
(02) 9100 0493 View (02) 9100 0493
Gaia Mainini
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
3 Endorsed
Leichhardt, NSW 2040
I offer a warm, supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions and experiences at your own pace. I support adults and young people navigating anxiety, life transitions, self-doubt, relationship challenges and questions around identity and connection.
I offer a warm, supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions and experiences at your own pace. I support adults and young people navigating anxiety, life transitions, self-doubt, relationship challenges and questions around identity and connection.
0410 929 390 View 0410 929 390
Dr Elisha Wealands Pty Ltd
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Online Only
Dr Elisha Wealands is a registered psychologist who provides effective personalised, trauma informed treatment for all mental health conditions. She has been practicing for the past 20 years within a number of settings including mental health, family therapy, sexual assault, domestic violence, trauma and wellness. Dr Wealands is a registered provider for Victims Services and National Mental Health Care Plans and works with clients from both metropolitan and regional areas across Australia.
Dr Elisha Wealands is a registered psychologist who provides effective personalised, trauma informed treatment for all mental health conditions. She has been practicing for the past 20 years within a number of settings including mental health, family therapy, sexual assault, domestic violence, trauma and wellness. Dr Wealands is a registered provider for Victims Services and National Mental Health Care Plans and works with clients from both metropolitan and regional areas across Australia.
View
Richard T
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Leichhardt, NSW 2040
Do you feel fundamentally broken? Do you find yourself falling back into people pleasing or controlling behaviours, even though you really want to change them? Do you keep finding yourself in relationships with the same sorts of people or in the same type of dynamic? Lasting change can be possible by being gently curious about what parts are bringing us back into our old patterns, and what beliefs or emotions those parts carry. With practice and insight, you can be aware which parts are driving your actions and compassionately make new choices.
Do you feel fundamentally broken? Do you find yourself falling back into people pleasing or controlling behaviours, even though you really want to change them? Do you keep finding yourself in relationships with the same sorts of people or in the same type of dynamic? Lasting change can be possible by being gently curious about what parts are bringing us back into our old patterns, and what beliefs or emotions those parts carry. With practice and insight, you can be aware which parts are driving your actions and compassionately make new choices.
View
Richelle Horscroft
Psychologist, MPsych, MACPA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I'm a Senior Clinical Psychologist with expertise in the psychological, emotional and physical transitions associated with peri/menopause. Some women develop issues with depression, anxiety, sleep, brain fog and a shifting sense of their identity. I work with clients to make sense of these shifts and develop practical strategies to move forward with greater clarity . My second area of expertise is with children, adolescents and families, experiencing anxiety, low mood, friendship and family relationship difficulties, neurodivergence and difficulties with transitions and changes. I work with young people and with parents
Hello! I'm a Senior Clinical Psychologist with expertise in the psychological, emotional and physical transitions associated with peri/menopause. Some women develop issues with depression, anxiety, sleep, brain fog and a shifting sense of their identity. I work with clients to make sense of these shifts and develop practical strategies to move forward with greater clarity . My second area of expertise is with children, adolescents and families, experiencing anxiety, low mood, friendship and family relationship difficulties, neurodivergence and difficulties with transitions and changes. I work with young people and with parents
0403 399 429 View 0403 399 429
Pat Wood-Collier
Counsellor, MA, CCAA
Serves Area
I am flexible and able to work with both males and females. Age does not preclude me from seeing someone. I am accepting of anyone who is looking for someone to listen to and see them. Together we will discover and give them their voice. I worked in Samaritans and Lifeline for 20 years. I work with various addictions and traumas. I counsel the addict, or the family, and friends of the addict. Working with discovering purpose, trust and sobriety, I am able to hold the person in a safe space while dealing with trauma by using different counselling modalities suited to them.
I am flexible and able to work with both males and females. Age does not preclude me from seeing someone. I am accepting of anyone who is looking for someone to listen to and see them. Together we will discover and give them their voice. I worked in Samaritans and Lifeline for 20 years. I work with various addictions and traumas. I counsel the addict, or the family, and friends of the addict. Working with discovering purpose, trust and sobriety, I am able to hold the person in a safe space while dealing with trauma by using different counselling modalities suited to them.
(02) 5504 5434 View (02) 5504 5434
Marina Suarez
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
I am passionate about helping people who are struggling with the impact of difficult childhood experiences and who are committed to engage in a process of deep change. Perhaps you’ve already gained a lot from talk therapy but you feel that there’s something missing. As a Somatic Psychotherapist I work in an integrated way where we listen to/work with both your mind and your body. It’s a collaborative journey where my knowledge and experience and your expertise in yourself come together to find the best way to help you move forward. In my practice, I have the privilege to witness people’s lives transforming and flourishing.
I am passionate about helping people who are struggling with the impact of difficult childhood experiences and who are committed to engage in a process of deep change. Perhaps you’ve already gained a lot from talk therapy but you feel that there’s something missing. As a Somatic Psychotherapist I work in an integrated way where we listen to/work with both your mind and your body. It’s a collaborative journey where my knowledge and experience and your expertise in yourself come together to find the best way to help you move forward. In my practice, I have the privilege to witness people’s lives transforming and flourishing.
(02) 5104 1032 View (02) 5104 1032
GBY (Guided By You) Therapy
Social Worker, AMHSW
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Cassandra is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and a Medicare provider. Cassandra provides a collaborative and safe space for her clients to reflect and grow. She is empathetic, warm and an intuitive person with a passion for supporting people to move forward from traumatic times in their life.
Cassandra is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and a Medicare provider. Cassandra provides a collaborative and safe space for her clients to reflect and grow. She is empathetic, warm and an intuitive person with a passion for supporting people to move forward from traumatic times in their life.
(02) 9100 0993 View (02) 9100 0993
Xanthe Katsouras
Psychotherapist, PsychD, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
For those navigating overwhelm, relationship difficutlies, identity shifts, grief, inner conflict, or a longing for deeper meaning. I bring a Jungian informed lens to my work, which allows a more expansive, and grounded experience of self, allowing you to feel more connected to your life, and the choices available to you.
For those navigating overwhelm, relationship difficutlies, identity shifts, grief, inner conflict, or a longing for deeper meaning. I bring a Jungian informed lens to my work, which allows a more expansive, and grounded experience of self, allowing you to feel more connected to your life, and the choices available to you.
(02) 9100 0085 View (02) 9100 0085
Alex Dunwoodie
Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Psychotherapist and Counsellor committed to create a safe and nurturing space for clients to explore their strengths, develop coping strategies, and enhance their self-awareness. I provide support for a wide range of mental health concerns including trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, parenting and personal growth. I bring a holistic lense to therapy as a level 1 IFS practitioner with specialisation in trauma informed and Neuro affirming practices.
I am a Psychotherapist and Counsellor committed to create a safe and nurturing space for clients to explore their strengths, develop coping strategies, and enhance their self-awareness. I provide support for a wide range of mental health concerns including trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, parenting and personal growth. I bring a holistic lense to therapy as a level 1 IFS practitioner with specialisation in trauma informed and Neuro affirming practices.
(02) 8000 0822 View (02) 8000 0822

See more therapy options for Leichhardt

Body Image Therapists
How does body image affect mental health?
Poor body image can influence mental health because it can reduce self-esteem and decrease functioning in other areas of one's life. Negative body image may hinder someone's ability to perform daily tasks, including professional and social responsibilities, because they may feel self-conscious or shame surrounding their appearance; a desire to change one's body as a result of negative body image can also trigger behaviors such as extreme dieting, excessive exercise, or obsessive social media comparison. Poor body image is associated with a number of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, although many people experience negative body image even in the absence of meeting the diagnostic criteria for any mental health disorders.

What does it mean to have a positive body image?
Body image refers to how one internally perceives their appearance and internally "talks" to themself about their body. Positive body image is therefore indicative of a positive perception of one's self and positive internal self-talk that underscores one's strengths. People who have good body image often have higher self-esteem, self-worth, and self-confidence, and they also often recognise how external factors, such as social media or relationship patterns, can influence body image. While body image can change at different life stages and in response to various triggers, practicing self-acceptance and a body-positive mindset can help maintain a more stable sense of positive body image.

Is body image the same as self-esteem?
Body image and self-esteem are often related, but they are distinct concepts. Self-esteem is a broader term that can be shaped by a number of factors outside of body image, including one's functioning at school or in the workplace; it refers to one's capacity to handle various life challenges. Poor body image can be one way in which one's self-esteem is reduced. Reduced self-esteem as a result of poor body image can cause individuals to feel negative about their appearance, withdraw from social interactions, and/or rely on harmful behaviours as a coping mechanism. A "body positive" approach to body image therapy is therefore often used to encourage a more positive view of one's self and thus encourage better self-esteem.

What type of therapy is best to foster a positive body image?
The type of therapy best suited to improve body image depends on each person, as there is not a single therapy specific to body image improvement. That said, many individuals with poor body image benefit from therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based therapy. CBT can be used to help challenge distorted or negative thoughts about one's body, while ACT and mindfulness practices can facilitate a more positive body image through self-acceptance and identification of one's personal strengths. Regardless of treatment type, clients should look for body image therapists who encourage the development of a sense of self outside of their external appearance and help clients reduce unwanted behaviours developed as a result of poor self-esteem, such as dieting or disordered eating patterns.