Adoption Psychologists and Therapists in Mascot, NSW

Photo of Leonie Catherine Wolff, Psychologist, MA, MAPS
Leonie Catherine Wolff
Psychologist, MA, MAPS
Serves Area
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
Peter Jones
Psychologist, MSc, MAPS
Online Only
You are probably a person who has had a degree of success in your life so far, but experiences a level of noticeable dissatisfaction or unresolved difficulty, which you may have felt for some time. Often this experience shows itself in our unhappiness with relationships, family or work/career. You may have had a recent loss that you are having difficulty moving on from, or perhaps you are noticing a pattern in your experiences that seem to recur, no matter what you try to do differently. You are a self-reflective person who is curious about how to change yourself and are now motivated to do so.
You are probably a person who has had a degree of success in your life so far, but experiences a level of noticeable dissatisfaction or unresolved difficulty, which you may have felt for some time. Often this experience shows itself in our unhappiness with relationships, family or work/career. You may have had a recent loss that you are having difficulty moving on from, or perhaps you are noticing a pattern in your experiences that seem to recur, no matter what you try to do differently. You are a self-reflective person who is curious about how to change yourself and are now motivated to do so.
(02) 8503 4154 View (02) 8503 4154
Photo of Belinda Carroll, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Belinda Carroll
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
My clientele are interested in developing self awareness, working on attachment issues and loss, managing their emotions and accessing their unconscious needs, feelings and passions. They are willing to work on extrinsically motivated coping mechanisms that are no longer serving or benefiting their lives. My clientele are open to developing assertive communication skills sourced from authentic desires and are committed to build a strong, confident sense of self. These clients are ready to work on deeper themes and woundings, childhood trauma's, loss, accumulative adult traumas and present day crisis and difficulties.
My clientele are interested in developing self awareness, working on attachment issues and loss, managing their emotions and accessing their unconscious needs, feelings and passions. They are willing to work on extrinsically motivated coping mechanisms that are no longer serving or benefiting their lives. My clientele are open to developing assertive communication skills sourced from authentic desires and are committed to build a strong, confident sense of self. These clients are ready to work on deeper themes and woundings, childhood trauma's, loss, accumulative adult traumas and present day crisis and difficulties.
0403 289 204 View 0403 289 204
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 Katie Summerfield - Heart Of Play Therapy Katie Summerfield
Heart Of Play Therapy Katie Summerfield
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Like a flower, we bloom in the right environment; in the play therapy room I work with empathy and acceptance to create a safe space for children and families in order for them to work through their issues and “grow”. I recognise the importance of family and offer assistance to parents and carers to work towards a safer, happier and more relaxed home environment in a strength-based way. Child-centred Play Therapy is a gentle, trauma-informed and neuro-affirming way of supporting children in their unique reactions to coping with daily life, big life events or trauma and attachment issues.
Like a flower, we bloom in the right environment; in the play therapy room I work with empathy and acceptance to create a safe space for children and families in order for them to work through their issues and “grow”. I recognise the importance of family and offer assistance to parents and carers to work towards a safer, happier and more relaxed home environment in a strength-based way. Child-centred Play Therapy is a gentle, trauma-informed and neuro-affirming way of supporting children in their unique reactions to coping with daily life, big life events or trauma and attachment issues.
(02) 9100 0375 View (02) 9100 0375

More Therapists Nearby

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 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 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 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 Dr Louise Mary McGreal, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Dr Louise Mary McGreal
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Online Only
I am passionate about working with individuals and couples who may be struggling with issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, loss, trauma, stress/burnout, low self-esteem, abuse and relationship issues. I also have a keen interest in personal development and helping clients promote self-awareness in their lives. I can provide alcohol free mentoring also for clients who may want to examine their relationship with alcohol and move towards an alcohol free lifestyle. I have completed level 1 and 2 training in the Gottman Method for couples counselling.
I am passionate about working with individuals and couples who may be struggling with issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, loss, trauma, stress/burnout, low self-esteem, abuse and relationship issues. I also have a keen interest in personal development and helping clients promote self-awareness in their lives. I can provide alcohol free mentoring also for clients who may want to examine their relationship with alcohol and move towards an alcohol free lifestyle. I have completed level 1 and 2 training in the Gottman Method for couples counselling.
0477 006 253 View 0477 006 253
Photo of Sam Solly, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Sam Solly
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I’m a Clinical Psychologist with a strong focus on stress, anxiety, and nervous system regulation. I offer the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), a gentle, evidence-based intervention that uses specially filtered music to support calming of the nervous system and improved emotional regulation. SSP can help reduce anxiety, overwhelm, and reactivity. I deliver SSP in a trauma-informed, carefully paced way, with ongoing support to ensure the process feels safe, contained, and tailored to your needs.
I’m a Clinical Psychologist with a strong focus on stress, anxiety, and nervous system regulation. I offer the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), a gentle, evidence-based intervention that uses specially filtered music to support calming of the nervous system and improved emotional regulation. SSP can help reduce anxiety, overwhelm, and reactivity. I deliver SSP in a trauma-informed, carefully paced way, with ongoing support to ensure the process feels safe, contained, and tailored to your needs.
View
Photo of Esther Davis - Esther Davis Psychology, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Esther Davis Psychology
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
As a fellow human, I deeply understand that pain and suffering, although normal, can be exquisitely hard. I provide a safe space for you to explore the struggles in your life and how your backstory affects you today. Together we can discover and establish the story you want to lead going forward; one in which you can be at rest and flourish.
As a fellow human, I deeply understand that pain and suffering, although normal, can be exquisitely hard. I provide a safe space for you to explore the struggles in your life and how your backstory affects you today. Together we can discover and establish the story you want to lead going forward; one in which you can be at rest and flourish.
(02) 4214 4075 View (02) 4214 4075
Photo of Sascha Norman, Counsellor
Sascha Norman
Counsellor
3 Endorsed
North Narrabeen, NSW 2101
If life feels overwhelming, full of stress, anxiety, trauma or uncertainty I want you to know that healing is possible with the right support. I’m Sascha, and I help adults and teens work through life's challenges with compassion and practical tools. It’s work I truly love. I help my clients feel clearer, more hopeful, and empowered to move forward. I use a holistic approach, combining talk therapy with optional kinesiology to help fast-track healing and release the tension you’ve been holding. Together, we can build greater confidence and resilience. You don’t have to navigate this alone.
If life feels overwhelming, full of stress, anxiety, trauma or uncertainty I want you to know that healing is possible with the right support. I’m Sascha, and I help adults and teens work through life's challenges with compassion and practical tools. It’s work I truly love. I help my clients feel clearer, more hopeful, and empowered to move forward. I use a holistic approach, combining talk therapy with optional kinesiology to help fast-track healing and release the tension you’ve been holding. Together, we can build greater confidence and resilience. You don’t have to navigate this alone.
(02) 8403 1163 View (02) 8403 1163
Photo of Jess Hodges, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Jess Hodges
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel overwhelmed, exhausted or struggling with motivation? Do you have sensitivities that leave you feeling judged by others, or misunderstood? Do you experience stuck patterns of behaviour that effect your ability to feel satisfaction in life and in relationships? Do you feel pressure to conform to societal norms and expectations, which leaves you feeling "othered" and isolated? I see you! You are not alone and you don't have to work this out by yourself. Together we can explore your lived experience and the many ways it impacts your sense of self, worthiness and belonging.
Do you feel overwhelmed, exhausted or struggling with motivation? Do you have sensitivities that leave you feeling judged by others, or misunderstood? Do you experience stuck patterns of behaviour that effect your ability to feel satisfaction in life and in relationships? Do you feel pressure to conform to societal norms and expectations, which leaves you feeling "othered" and isolated? I see you! You are not alone and you don't have to work this out by yourself. Together we can explore your lived experience and the many ways it impacts your sense of self, worthiness and belonging.
0408 486 282 View 0408 486 282
Photo of Leisa Pritchard - The Heart & Mind Collective, Psychologist, PsyBA General
The Heart & Mind Collective
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Ready to nurture your emotional and mental health? The Heart & Mind Collective has a range of therapeutic supports available to assist you at any stage of your journey. Our experienced clinicians offer expertise in the assessment and therapeutic support of anxiety, depression, PTSD, attachment difficulties, emotional and behavioural difficulties, autism, ADHD, learning difficulties and more.
Ready to nurture your emotional and mental health? The Heart & Mind Collective has a range of therapeutic supports available to assist you at any stage of your journey. Our experienced clinicians offer expertise in the assessment and therapeutic support of anxiety, depression, PTSD, attachment difficulties, emotional and behavioural difficulties, autism, ADHD, learning difficulties and more.
(02) 4326 0725 View (02) 4326 0725
Photo of Mj Basilio, Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Mj Basilio
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Wahroonga, NSW 2076
Waitlist for new clients
My passion lies in working with people who are ready to add joy, love, and ease to their lives. Overcoming the barriers of depression, anxiety, overwhelm, self-doubt, and low confidence can be daunting, but seeking help is the first step towards a brighter future. Together we can embark on a journey to tap into your inner beauty, strength, and resilience, transforming your relationship with yourself and with those you love. By nurturing these qualities, we cultivate a solid foundation that paves the way for a life filled with greater joy, fulfillment, and purpose.
My passion lies in working with people who are ready to add joy, love, and ease to their lives. Overcoming the barriers of depression, anxiety, overwhelm, self-doubt, and low confidence can be daunting, but seeking help is the first step towards a brighter future. Together we can embark on a journey to tap into your inner beauty, strength, and resilience, transforming your relationship with yourself and with those you love. By nurturing these qualities, we cultivate a solid foundation that paves the way for a life filled with greater joy, fulfillment, and purpose.
(02) 9541 8788 View (02) 9541 8788
Photo of Sabine Wardle - Embrace Care Solutions, Social Worker, PhD, AASW
Embrace Care Solutions
Social Worker, PhD, AASW
Serves Area
Sabine is a qualified and accredited social worker and therapist passionate about helping individuals navigate life's challenges and achieve their fullest potential. In 2020, she completed her PhD in Social Work, which deepened her understanding of human behaviour, mental health, and the complex systems that impact our well-being. Throughout her career, she has worked with people from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. She follows evidence-based practice tailored to your circumstances to help you build resilience, develop coping strategies, and foster personal growth.
Sabine is a qualified and accredited social worker and therapist passionate about helping individuals navigate life's challenges and achieve their fullest potential. In 2020, she completed her PhD in Social Work, which deepened her understanding of human behaviour, mental health, and the complex systems that impact our well-being. Throughout her career, she has worked with people from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. She follows evidence-based practice tailored to your circumstances to help you build resilience, develop coping strategies, and foster personal growth.
(02) 5838 5638 View (02) 5838 5638
Photo of Rajesh Prasad - Clear Choice Clinic Therapy/Coun/Psychological/ASD, Counsellor, MSc
Diversity and Cultural Competence: Highlight your experience as an NDIS-registered provider catering to clients from diverse nationalities. Educational Background: Master's degree. Specialisation in ASD; Experience in Special Education: I have a deep understanding of the challenges to support them effectively.Psychological Assessment Expertise: Marriage and Relationships:Legal Requirements and Report Writing: writing reports to meet legal requirements:Psychological Support: assist clients with a range of issues, AOD (Alcohol and Other Drugs), anger management, domestic issues, and disabilities. Helping clients with needs.
Diversity and Cultural Competence: Highlight your experience as an NDIS-registered provider catering to clients from diverse nationalities. Educational Background: Master's degree. Specialisation in ASD; Experience in Special Education: I have a deep understanding of the challenges to support them effectively.Psychological Assessment Expertise: Marriage and Relationships:Legal Requirements and Report Writing: writing reports to meet legal requirements:Psychological Support: assist clients with a range of issues, AOD (Alcohol and Other Drugs), anger management, domestic issues, and disabilities. Helping clients with needs.
(02) 6189 2732 View (02) 6189 2732
Photo of Jordi Tome, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Jordi Tome
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
2 Endorsed
Drummoyne, NSW 2047
Families and adults come to me for clarity. Often a child is struggling at school, a teenager has hit a wall, or an adult has spent years sensing something was missed. Most of my work is assessment: autism, ADHD, FASD, cognitive, educational, memory, and broader neuropsychological assessment, for every age. I use gold-standard instruments, then take time to explain what the results mean and what to do next. I also work with vulnerable children and families in child protection and out-of-home care, and I see clients for trauma-informed therapy alongside assessment.
Families and adults come to me for clarity. Often a child is struggling at school, a teenager has hit a wall, or an adult has spent years sensing something was missed. Most of my work is assessment: autism, ADHD, FASD, cognitive, educational, memory, and broader neuropsychological assessment, for every age. I use gold-standard instruments, then take time to explain what the results mean and what to do next. I also work with vulnerable children and families in child protection and out-of-home care, and I see clients for trauma-informed therapy alongside assessment.
0478 261 970 View 0478 261 970
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.