Attachment-based Counselling in Mid North Coast, NSW

Photo of Donna-Marie Thompson, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Donna-Marie Thompson
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
Dee Thompson is a Clinical Psychologist with a strong interest in supporting women's health and mental health in an integrative and holistic framework. Dee is available for individual therapy for women seeking support with issues related to: - Adjustment difficulties (e.g., change in/loss of job, new health diagnoses, stage-of-life transitions, relationship breakdown, retirement) - Anxiety, panic or stress - Support in adjusting to later-in-life identification of neurodivergence (Autistics, ADHDers or AuDHDers) - Trauma - Chronic pain management - Recovering from domestic violence - Insomnia
Dee Thompson is a Clinical Psychologist with a strong interest in supporting women's health and mental health in an integrative and holistic framework. Dee is available for individual therapy for women seeking support with issues related to: - Adjustment difficulties (e.g., change in/loss of job, new health diagnoses, stage-of-life transitions, relationship breakdown, retirement) - Anxiety, panic or stress - Support in adjusting to later-in-life identification of neurodivergence (Autistics, ADHDers or AuDHDers) - Trauma - Chronic pain management - Recovering from domestic violence - Insomnia
Dr Julie-May Brown
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
I am an experienced, accredited EMDR and trauma-oriented clinician with extensive expertise in treating clinicians, veterans, and civilians. My approach is ethical, evidence-based, and client-centered, and draws upon a diverse repertoire of specialized skills and advanced training. I am committed to providing a safe, effective, and tailored therapeutic experience to my clients, many of whom are extremely vulnerable, and fearful of engaging with a therapist.
I am an experienced, accredited EMDR and trauma-oriented clinician with extensive expertise in treating clinicians, veterans, and civilians. My approach is ethical, evidence-based, and client-centered, and draws upon a diverse repertoire of specialized skills and advanced training. I am committed to providing a safe, effective, and tailored therapeutic experience to my clients, many of whom are extremely vulnerable, and fearful of engaging with a therapist.
0421 778 204 View 0421 778 204
Photo of Donna Van Haren, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Donna Van Haren
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Grafton, NSW 2460
Reaching out for support is the hardest step and my job is to make that step as comfortable as possible. My aim each session is to leave you in a better emotional place than when you arrived, with tools for you to achieve and maintain ongoing emotional wellbeing and resilience. I work with a trauma informed, person centred approach. I support you to explore, identify and heal the underlying issues that create conflict, cause disruption or impact your quality of life. I believe trauma to be an experience of anything that takes you away from being your authentic self. Employee Assistance Program, NDIS & NSW Victims sessions available.
Reaching out for support is the hardest step and my job is to make that step as comfortable as possible. My aim each session is to leave you in a better emotional place than when you arrived, with tools for you to achieve and maintain ongoing emotional wellbeing and resilience. I work with a trauma informed, person centred approach. I support you to explore, identify and heal the underlying issues that create conflict, cause disruption or impact your quality of life. I believe trauma to be an experience of anything that takes you away from being your authentic self. Employee Assistance Program, NDIS & NSW Victims sessions available.
(08) 7562 9435 View (08) 7562 9435
Photo of Basia Radlinska - Reflective Psychology, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Reflective Psychology
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450
If you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck in cycles of anxiety, depression, or trauma, and just want to feel like yourself again, then we can help. At Reflective Psychology, we support people just like you to heal, grow, and move forward with confidence. Whether you're navigating emotional pain, stress, or life transitions, you're not alone. Reach out and we can a path forward together, with expert support from our experienced practitioners.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck in cycles of anxiety, depression, or trauma, and just want to feel like yourself again, then we can help. At Reflective Psychology, we support people just like you to heal, grow, and move forward with confidence. Whether you're navigating emotional pain, stress, or life transitions, you're not alone. Reach out and we can a path forward together, with expert support from our experienced practitioners.
(02) 5602 8107 View (02) 5602 8107
Photo of Tori Donnelly - Tori Donnelly Counselling and Support , Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Tori Donnelly Counselling and Support
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Port Macquarie, NSW 2444
Tori is a Mental Health Accredited Social Worker and Certified Play Therapist, specialising in sexual abuse and other forms of trauma. Tori works with children, adolescents and adults with a trauma-informed approach.
Tori is a Mental Health Accredited Social Worker and Certified Play Therapist, specialising in sexual abuse and other forms of trauma. Tori works with children, adolescents and adults with a trauma-informed approach.
(02) 5566 2745 View (02) 5566 2745
Photo of Alena Piccolruaz, Psychologist, MPsych, Assoc MAPS
Alena Piccolruaz
Psychologist, MPsych, Assoc MAPS
Taree, NSW 2430
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 Laurie Eakin, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Laurie Eakin
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Online Only
Feeling anxious, sad, under stress and need to talk to someone or find out how you can manage your life better? It doesn’t always have to be hard! Life can be full and rich and meaningful. I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to work through the challenges and help clients move towards greater psychological flexibility, living a more values-based life than they may have been able to achieve previously.
Feeling anxious, sad, under stress and need to talk to someone or find out how you can manage your life better? It doesn’t always have to be hard! Life can be full and rich and meaningful. I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to work through the challenges and help clients move towards greater psychological flexibility, living a more values-based life than they may have been able to achieve previously.
(02) 5500 1081 View (02) 5500 1081
Photo of Braden Ashley Vernon, Psychotherapist, ACA-L3
Braden Ashley Vernon
Psychotherapist, ACA-L3
Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450
I support individuals by offering an environment in which they can freely explore the present situations they face alongside their past experiences and future goals. Our work together is not about ‘fixing’ you but rather a process of expanding your understanding of yourself through collaboratively identifying any deeply ingrained patterns of thought, feelings and behaviour you may have knowingly or unknowingly developed in response to your life experience to date. I have a focus on working with trauma, PTSD, personality disorders and psychosexual concerns.
I support individuals by offering an environment in which they can freely explore the present situations they face alongside their past experiences and future goals. Our work together is not about ‘fixing’ you but rather a process of expanding your understanding of yourself through collaboratively identifying any deeply ingrained patterns of thought, feelings and behaviour you may have knowingly or unknowingly developed in response to your life experience to date. I have a focus on working with trauma, PTSD, personality disorders and psychosexual concerns.
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Photo of Sonia Allsop - Clean Healing Counselling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Clean Healing Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Maclean, NSW 2463
Clean Healing Counselling is dedicated to providing a wide array of counselling services to clients aged 16 years and older. Our services are tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients. We specialize in couples counselling, as well as counselling for trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, stress management, grief and loss, low self-esteem, life coaching, parenting support and cancer counselling. Our focus is on guiding individuals and couples through their challenges by offering a secure environment to initiate and navigate their healing journey.
Clean Healing Counselling is dedicated to providing a wide array of counselling services to clients aged 16 years and older. Our services are tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients. We specialize in couples counselling, as well as counselling for trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, stress management, grief and loss, low self-esteem, life coaching, parenting support and cancer counselling. Our focus is on guiding individuals and couples through their challenges by offering a secure environment to initiate and navigate their healing journey.
(03) 6413 2210 View (03) 6413 2210
Photo of Shené Regan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Shené Regan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Port Macquarie, NSW 2444
Hey there! I'm Shené, an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, specialising in supporting children, adolescents, and women. From a young age, I envisioned creating a place where children and their families could find the support they need. Over time, this vision has evolved. Today, I am driven not only to assist children coping with loss but also to support anyone navigating the profound impact of trauma, and grief and loss. My passion extends to nurturing thriving families, with a particular focus on supporting new mothers and their babies through the transformative and often challenging post-natal period and beyond.
Hey there! I'm Shené, an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, specialising in supporting children, adolescents, and women. From a young age, I envisioned creating a place where children and their families could find the support they need. Over time, this vision has evolved. Today, I am driven not only to assist children coping with loss but also to support anyone navigating the profound impact of trauma, and grief and loss. My passion extends to nurturing thriving families, with a particular focus on supporting new mothers and their babies through the transformative and often challenging post-natal period and beyond.
(02) 5503 9424 View (02) 5503 9424
Photo of Tricia Ang, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Tricia Ang
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450
Waitlist for new clients
I specialise in assisting children, adolescents and adults who have experienced trauma from shocking/terrifying events, or developmental/complex trauma, and are struggling with symptoms such as flashbacks, hypervigilance, intrusive thoughts, overwhelming feelings of anger/ sadness/ anxiety/ shame, numbness, low self-worth, relationship/ boundary/ trust issues, powerlessness, and disconnection from self/others. Using a holistic approach that honours the mind-body connection, I'm dedicated to supporting individuals to transform chronic stuck patterns into deeper experiences of wellbeing, self-empowerment, freedom, joy and fulfilment.
I specialise in assisting children, adolescents and adults who have experienced trauma from shocking/terrifying events, or developmental/complex trauma, and are struggling with symptoms such as flashbacks, hypervigilance, intrusive thoughts, overwhelming feelings of anger/ sadness/ anxiety/ shame, numbness, low self-worth, relationship/ boundary/ trust issues, powerlessness, and disconnection from self/others. Using a holistic approach that honours the mind-body connection, I'm dedicated to supporting individuals to transform chronic stuck patterns into deeper experiences of wellbeing, self-empowerment, freedom, joy and fulfilment.
(02) 5605 2890 View (02) 5605 2890
Photo of Janelle Maye Driscoll, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Janelle Maye Driscoll
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Online Only
People often come to therapy because they are facing challenges in their lives and they are wanting support, growth, and tools to move forward. It is such a privilege to walk along side them to help overcome these challenges and make positive changes in their lives. I work from a place of empathy and respect to assist people understand what is going on for them and look at new perspectives, attitudes, and reactions to problems. I work with individuals and couples, and have a passion for working with people from a range of cultures, people from the LGBTIQ+ community, and people with neurodiverse perspectives.
People often come to therapy because they are facing challenges in their lives and they are wanting support, growth, and tools to move forward. It is such a privilege to walk along side them to help overcome these challenges and make positive changes in their lives. I work from a place of empathy and respect to assist people understand what is going on for them and look at new perspectives, attitudes, and reactions to problems. I work with individuals and couples, and have a passion for working with people from a range of cultures, people from the LGBTIQ+ community, and people with neurodiverse perspectives.
(02) 5602 8214 View (02) 5602 8214
Photo of Andrew Berry - Andrew Berry Counselling, Counsellor, MC, PACFA
Andrew Berry Counselling
Counsellor, MC, PACFA
Port Macquarie, NSW 2444
If life feels like a struggle or if you’re just not coping so well, please reach out and contact me. I offer you my experience, expertise and support to help you overcome the challenges that you’re going through. Many people see me for help with depression and anxiety, relationship difficulties, anger management, communication issues, emotional instability, and more broadly, for finding life direction and meaning again.
If life feels like a struggle or if you’re just not coping so well, please reach out and contact me. I offer you my experience, expertise and support to help you overcome the challenges that you’re going through. Many people see me for help with depression and anxiety, relationship difficulties, anger management, communication issues, emotional instability, and more broadly, for finding life direction and meaning again.
(02) 5563 2168 View (02) 5563 2168
Photo of Gabrielle Gawne-Kelnar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Gabrielle Gawne-Kelnar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Grafton, NSW 2460
I'm a counsellor, psychotherapist and social work therapist with over 15 years of experience and extensive professional training. Guided by your life and preferences, together we can draw from many different therapy modalities, and work holistically to uncover and deepen your strengths. We will discover and enrich the values that really matter to you, and that can help you navigate your life with more meaning. I can share helpful strategies to support you, your child and family through challenging times. Together, we'll unearth the answers and experience you already hold within you, so you can walk toward healing and hope again.
I'm a counsellor, psychotherapist and social work therapist with over 15 years of experience and extensive professional training. Guided by your life and preferences, together we can draw from many different therapy modalities, and work holistically to uncover and deepen your strengths. We will discover and enrich the values that really matter to you, and that can help you navigate your life with more meaning. I can share helpful strategies to support you, your child and family through challenging times. Together, we'll unearth the answers and experience you already hold within you, so you can walk toward healing and hope again.
(02) 6422 6265 View (02) 6422 6265
Photo of Michella Elizabeth Wherrett, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Michella Elizabeth Wherrett
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Online Only
I believe we all have capacity to deal with issues we meet along the way, however sometimes we get out of touch with that part of ourselves. I love to work together with clients to help them get back to that part of themselves, to be able to Identify what is stopping them from reaching their goals. Often it’s things we believe about ourselves from our past, which are not always true. Beliefs about self-worth, not being good enough, not being loveable! These negative beliefs about ourselves may have been formed in childhood or in relationships that have been unhealthy. I am able to work with you, collaboratively, to achieve your goal
I believe we all have capacity to deal with issues we meet along the way, however sometimes we get out of touch with that part of ourselves. I love to work together with clients to help them get back to that part of themselves, to be able to Identify what is stopping them from reaching their goals. Often it’s things we believe about ourselves from our past, which are not always true. Beliefs about self-worth, not being good enough, not being loveable! These negative beliefs about ourselves may have been formed in childhood or in relationships that have been unhealthy. I am able to work with you, collaboratively, to achieve your goal
(08) 7665 9816 View (08) 7665 9816
Photo of Catherine O'Leary - first things first counselling, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
first things first counselling
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Online Only
I am an experienced trauma-&IFS-informed therapist. I work well with people who are ready to do 'the work'. I briefly bring strategies that can be useful to your everyday life initially, relying on modalities such as mindfulness and polyvagal theory, before moving into deeper work based in Internal Family Systems (IFS), if and when the time is right. I assist/guide you to reveal and heal the parts of you that carry thoughts, feelings and behaviours that no longer serve you. It is not always doom and gloom. We work together light-heartedly to safely reveal your unconscious motivations and inner strength, towards lasting healing.
I am an experienced trauma-&IFS-informed therapist. I work well with people who are ready to do 'the work'. I briefly bring strategies that can be useful to your everyday life initially, relying on modalities such as mindfulness and polyvagal theory, before moving into deeper work based in Internal Family Systems (IFS), if and when the time is right. I assist/guide you to reveal and heal the parts of you that carry thoughts, feelings and behaviours that no longer serve you. It is not always doom and gloom. We work together light-heartedly to safely reveal your unconscious motivations and inner strength, towards lasting healing.
(02) 9100 0725 View (02) 9100 0725
Photo of Jamie Dimech - DOMIA Mind Body Connect, Counsellor, ACA-L2
DOMIA Mind Body Connect
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Port Macquarie, NSW 2444
My name is Jamie and I have supported children, young people, adults, foster and kinship carers in the therapeutic space for over 10 years. Sessions are guided by your needs and what feels most safe for you to explore at any given time. I am there to act as a guide to support you on your healing journey. As a mother of two little ones, I understand the challenges and fulfillment we experience as parents. I am deeply passionate about supporting parents, foster, and kinship carers to navigate the complexities of fostering, parenthood as well as preparing for birth and beyond.
My name is Jamie and I have supported children, young people, adults, foster and kinship carers in the therapeutic space for over 10 years. Sessions are guided by your needs and what feels most safe for you to explore at any given time. I am there to act as a guide to support you on your healing journey. As a mother of two little ones, I understand the challenges and fulfillment we experience as parents. I am deeply passionate about supporting parents, foster, and kinship carers to navigate the complexities of fostering, parenthood as well as preparing for birth and beyond.
(02) 6564 1969 View (02) 6564 1969
Photo of Robin Schep - Counselling Solution—Forster & Port Macquarie, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Counselling Solution—Forster & Port Macquarie
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
3 Endorsed
Port Macquarie, NSW 2444
When people first speak with us, they express feelings like, desperate, angry, helpless, stressed, lost, no-sense-of–belonging, not-good-enough, overwhelmed, and not-knowing-where-to-start. You may be feeling desperate, finding your life has unravelled, and that you have lost your way… When we meet, you are inviting us alongside you on your journey seeking understanding, meaning, and direction.
When people first speak with us, they express feelings like, desperate, angry, helpless, stressed, lost, no-sense-of–belonging, not-good-enough, overwhelmed, and not-knowing-where-to-start. You may be feeling desperate, finding your life has unravelled, and that you have lost your way… When we meet, you are inviting us alongside you on your journey seeking understanding, meaning, and direction.
0421 224 070 View 0421 224 070
Catherine Stokoe
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Port Macquarie, NSW 2444
I am a qualified, skilled and highly experienced therapist with over 20 years in practice. My approach is warm, compassionate and effective. I am committed to working in collaboration with you to develop an individualised and specifically tailored course of therapy that works. I offer short term counselling to target specific issues, and longer term therapy to identify, explore, and resolve the deeper underlying patterns and drivers of distress. I will help you understand yourself better, gain the skills you need to stay well and happy, and move towards living a life of choice, freedom and peace.
I am a qualified, skilled and highly experienced therapist with over 20 years in practice. My approach is warm, compassionate and effective. I am committed to working in collaboration with you to develop an individualised and specifically tailored course of therapy that works. I offer short term counselling to target specific issues, and longer term therapy to identify, explore, and resolve the deeper underlying patterns and drivers of distress. I will help you understand yourself better, gain the skills you need to stay well and happy, and move towards living a life of choice, freedom and peace.
(02) 5603 4216 View (02) 5603 4216
Photo of Elizabeth Theiler, Psychologist, MA, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Elizabeth Theiler
Psychologist, MA, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Serves Area
I offer above all my intentional+ deep listening to your conscious/ unconscious concerns. I specialise in tailoring individually suitable therapies. I wish to assist you to open spaces, that can allow reflection and creation towards new internal+ external potentialities+ futurities, unique only to you. I am a Registered Psychologist and Psychoanalyst (Badiou/Lacan), Phd (abd level) with 50 years of expertise. I can practice in English, German or French. I am available on line, by Skype/Zoom (from anywhere in the world) + in person (at my office), by phone (Australia), for home visits (10km radius) for short and longterm therapies.
I offer above all my intentional+ deep listening to your conscious/ unconscious concerns. I specialise in tailoring individually suitable therapies. I wish to assist you to open spaces, that can allow reflection and creation towards new internal+ external potentialities+ futurities, unique only to you. I am a Registered Psychologist and Psychoanalyst (Badiou/Lacan), Phd (abd level) with 50 years of expertise. I can practice in English, German or French. I am available on line, by Skype/Zoom (from anywhere in the world) + in person (at my office), by phone (Australia), for home visits (10km radius) for short and longterm therapies.
(07) 3186 9444 View (07) 3186 9444
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See more therapy options for Mid North Coast

Attachment-based Counsellors

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.