Addiction Psychologists and Therapists in Mortdale, NSW

Photo of Adam Marshall, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Adam Marshall
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I support clients experiencing anxiety and depression, supporting clients to navigate stressful life circumstances while creating a thoughtful, non-judgmental space. I focus on targeting the root causes of difficult emotions, behaviours and self-sabotaging patterns, using evidence-based treatment to help resolve your symptoms and regain control and relief over your life. I work collaboratively with clients, and I love diving deep and helping you to explore the trickier questions you may have about life, self and purpose, all with authenticity and genuine care.
I support clients experiencing anxiety and depression, supporting clients to navigate stressful life circumstances while creating a thoughtful, non-judgmental space. I focus on targeting the root causes of difficult emotions, behaviours and self-sabotaging patterns, using evidence-based treatment to help resolve your symptoms and regain control and relief over your life. I work collaboratively with clients, and I love diving deep and helping you to explore the trickier questions you may have about life, self and purpose, all with authenticity and genuine care.
(02) 8105 5044 View (02) 8105 5044
Photo of Steven Passfield, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Steven Passfield
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Notably, Steven has experience working in Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD), Palliative Care, and Medical Rehabilitation services within NSW Health to address complex comorbid psychosocial challenges, including addiction, death/dying, and adjustment to serious illness/injury.
Steven is a psychologist who provides a calming presence to aid individuals understand and resolve their struggles within a relaxed environment. Steven emphasises the individuality of each client to ensure that they are seen as more than a diagnosis and receive an intervention tailored to their needs. Steven has completed a Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) and Master of Clinical Psychology. Steven has had experience working within public and private settings to address a variety of presenting issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma.
Notably, Steven has experience working in Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD), Palliative Care, and Medical Rehabilitation services within NSW Health to address complex comorbid psychosocial challenges, including addiction, death/dying, and adjustment to serious illness/injury.
Steven is a psychologist who provides a calming presence to aid individuals understand and resolve their struggles within a relaxed environment. Steven emphasises the individuality of each client to ensure that they are seen as more than a diagnosis and receive an intervention tailored to their needs. Steven has completed a Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) and Master of Clinical Psychology. Steven has had experience working within public and private settings to address a variety of presenting issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma.
(02) 8105 6288 View (02) 8105 6288
Photo of Anastasia Hronis, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Anastasia Hronis
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Dr Anastasia Hronis works primarily with clients with mood related concerns (e.g. anxiety, depression, anger, stress), as well as clients who have trauma, PTSD, addiction concerns, personality disorders, OCD, relationship concerns and eating disorders.
Dr Anastasia Hronis (B Psych Hons, M Clin Psych, AMusA, LMusA, Ph.D) is a clinical psychologist and founder of the Australian Institute for Human Wellness. Anastasia provides individual and group therapy. Anastasia also holds the position of Honorary Associate at the University of Technology Sydney, where she provides lectures and research supervision to students in the Master of Clinical Psychology Program.
Dr Anastasia Hronis works primarily with clients with mood related concerns (e.g. anxiety, depression, anger, stress), as well as clients who have trauma, PTSD, addiction concerns, personality disorders, OCD, relationship concerns and eating disorders.
Dr Anastasia Hronis (B Psych Hons, M Clin Psych, AMusA, LMusA, Ph.D) is a clinical psychologist and founder of the Australian Institute for Human Wellness. Anastasia provides individual and group therapy. Anastasia also holds the position of Honorary Associate at the University of Technology Sydney, where she provides lectures and research supervision to students in the Master of Clinical Psychology Program.
(02) 8105 5006 View (02) 8105 5006
Photo of Alena Piccolruaz, Psychologist, MPsych, Assoc MAPS
Alena Piccolruaz
Psychologist, MPsych, Assoc MAPS
Serves Area
I have a special interest in working with children, adolescents, and families in addition to supporting mums and dads through pregnancy and post-pregnancy. Issues treated (but not limited to) include; anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, school issues, suicidal thinking, personality disorder, anger management, gender transitioning, self-harm, grief and loss, work related issues (Workcover accredited psych), life coaching, relationship matters, family mediation, court and legal reports and the teaching of parenting skills. I also offer couples, family and marital therapy. I am also an accredited Supervisor to other psychologists.
I have a special interest in working with children, adolescents, and families in addition to supporting mums and dads through pregnancy and post-pregnancy. Issues treated (but not limited to) include; anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, school issues, suicidal thinking, personality disorder, anger management, gender transitioning, self-harm, grief and loss, work related issues (Workcover accredited psych), life coaching, relationship matters, family mediation, court and legal reports and the teaching of parenting skills. I also offer couples, family and marital therapy. I am also an accredited Supervisor to other psychologists.
(02) 9159 6930 View (02) 9159 6930
Photo of Alyssia Simos, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Alyssia Simos
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Alyssia has experience across both public and private sectors and works with a range of psychological difficulties including depression, anxiety, self-harm post-traumatic stress disorder, complex trauma, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, learning difficulties, autism spectrum disorder, difficulties with emotion regulation, personality disorders, addiction, and chronic pain.
In her clinical practise, Alyssia utilises a range of evidence-based treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Schema Therapy (ST) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Alyssia has experience across both public and private sectors and works with a range of psychological difficulties including depression, anxiety, self-harm post-traumatic stress disorder, complex trauma, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, learning difficulties, autism spectrum disorder, difficulties with emotion regulation, personality disorders, addiction, and chronic pain.
In her clinical practise, Alyssia utilises a range of evidence-based treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Schema Therapy (ST) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).
(02) 8105 5715 View (02) 8105 5715
Photo of Gerard Gayton, Counsellor, MC, PACFA
Gerard Gayton
Counsellor, MC, PACFA
Serves Area
Going to therapy isn't for the faint of heart and it’s not an easy process. Sometimes you can be so overwhelmed that you have trouble prioritising your own needs. You don't know where to start to make things better. However, what you get out of therapy is directly related to what you put into it. And I will match your dedication. The process of healing and recovery is also one of accepting, becoming and realising.
Going to therapy isn't for the faint of heart and it’s not an easy process. Sometimes you can be so overwhelmed that you have trouble prioritising your own needs. You don't know where to start to make things better. However, what you get out of therapy is directly related to what you put into it. And I will match your dedication. The process of healing and recovery is also one of accepting, becoming and realising.
(02) 8105 6231 View (02) 8105 6231
Photo of Kelly Hunt, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Kelly Hunt
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialise in supporting First Responders and their families while also welcoming clients from all backgrounds and presentations. I create personalised therapeutic strategies in collaboration with my clients, drawing on my expertise in CBT, ACT, and EMDR to support diagnoses from Adjustment Disorder, anxiety, and depression, to Post-traumatic Stress Disorder and grief and loss. I will always focus on what works best for you and partner with you to ensure you receive high quality and evidence-based care.
I specialise in supporting First Responders and their families while also welcoming clients from all backgrounds and presentations. I create personalised therapeutic strategies in collaboration with my clients, drawing on my expertise in CBT, ACT, and EMDR to support diagnoses from Adjustment Disorder, anxiety, and depression, to Post-traumatic Stress Disorder and grief and loss. I will always focus on what works best for you and partner with you to ensure you receive high quality and evidence-based care.
(02) 8105 5490 View (02) 8105 5490

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr Antonia Saunokonoko, Psychotherapist, PhD, ACA-L4
Dr Antonia Saunokonoko
Psychotherapist, PhD, ACA-L4
Sydney, NSW 2000
Are you struggling with an eating disorder, alcoholism or an addiction?
Addictions and eating disorders are complex conditions and even recovery can present its challenges. I offer a wealth of expertise in helping you gently move away from the struggle they can present. I use a wide range of techniques proven to help bring about change, as well as using warmth, compassion and patience to help you build the life you want.
Are you struggling with an eating disorder, alcoholism or an addiction?
Addictions and eating disorders are complex conditions and even recovery can present its challenges. I offer a wealth of expertise in helping you gently move away from the struggle they can present. I use a wide range of techniques proven to help bring about change, as well as using warmth, compassion and patience to help you build the life you want.
(02) 9159 6579 View (02) 9159 6579
Photo of Maryam Zafari, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Maryam Zafari
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Online Only
I am an experienced Certified Addictions-Informed Professional (CAIMHP) and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), specialising in evidence-based therapeutic interventions and integrative treatment approaches to support sustainable recovery and lasting behavioral change.
Over the years, I have trained in Polyvagal Theory, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). These frameworks have shaped my approach, allowing me to meet clients where they are, understanding how experiences shape core beliefs, emotional responses.
I am an experienced Certified Addictions-Informed Professional (CAIMHP) and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), specialising in evidence-based therapeutic interventions and integrative treatment approaches to support sustainable recovery and lasting behavioral change.
Over the years, I have trained in Polyvagal Theory, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). These frameworks have shaped my approach, allowing me to meet clients where they are, understanding how experiences shape core beliefs, emotional responses.
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Photo of Johan Torsteinsrud - Human Puzzles Counselling & Supervision Services, Counsellor, PACFA
My name is Johan Torsteinsrud, and my private practice is called Human Puzzles. I am a PACFA-certified professional counsellor who works mostly with international clients, with over ten years of experience in helping people from all walks of life find their way through life’s many challenges. My counselling sessions are conducted online. This provides a convenient and safe way for people to access support without the added stress of travelling to an office. I strive to create a safe space for all genders, races, cultures, bodies, sexual orientations, family constellations, and relationships.
My name is Johan Torsteinsrud, and my private practice is called Human Puzzles. I am a PACFA-certified professional counsellor who works mostly with international clients, with over ten years of experience in helping people from all walks of life find their way through life’s many challenges. My counselling sessions are conducted online. This provides a convenient and safe way for people to access support without the added stress of travelling to an office. I strive to create a safe space for all genders, races, cultures, bodies, sexual orientations, family constellations, and relationships.
(02) 9100 0570 View (02) 9100 0570
Photo of Julie Anne Preston - Julie Preston Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Julie Preston Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Mona Vale, NSW 2103
Julie is an experienced Registered Psychologist with a strong background in substance and process addictions, PTSD and developmental trauma, relationships issues, mood disorders and eating disorders.
Julie’s philosophy is that recovery is possible and her goal is to empower clients to lead fulfilling, healthy lives by providing clients the right tools and support for their healing and personal growth.
Julie is an experienced Registered Psychologist with a strong background in substance and process addictions, PTSD and developmental trauma, relationships issues, mood disorders and eating disorders.
Julie’s philosophy is that recovery is possible and her goal is to empower clients to lead fulfilling, healthy lives by providing clients the right tools and support for their healing and personal growth.
(02) 9909 6171 View (02) 9909 6171
Photo of Will Bonney, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Will Bonney
Psychotherapist, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000
I work with people who feel stuck - whether depressed; anxious; as a result of trauma; caught in a cycle of repetitive destructive behaviours like alcohol and drug use, gambling or sex addiction; dysfunctional relationships; or lacking direction, meaning and purpose.
I draw on a range of evidence-based therapies as appropriate for each client. These methods are accompanied by empathy for the human condition and are informed by insights gained as a partner, father, son, sibling, friend, colleague and community member. I bring my authentic self into the therapeutic relationship to walk beside those who come to see me.
I work with people who feel stuck - whether depressed; anxious; as a result of trauma; caught in a cycle of repetitive destructive behaviours like alcohol and drug use, gambling or sex addiction; dysfunctional relationships; or lacking direction, meaning and purpose.
I draw on a range of evidence-based therapies as appropriate for each client. These methods are accompanied by empathy for the human condition and are informed by insights gained as a partner, father, son, sibling, friend, colleague and community member. I bring my authentic self into the therapeutic relationship to walk beside those who come to see me.
(02) 8073 8335 View (02) 8073 8335
Photo of Christina Comely, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Christina Comely
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Dee Why, NSW 2099
I have extensive experience with mental health issues, alcohol and other drug addictions, depression and anxiety.
My thesis was on cannabis and mental health and this is an area I remain passionately interested in. I have presented at 17 national and international conferences on topics of cannabis and mental health, victims in the criminal justice system and religiously integrated CBT. See SetFreePsychology on Facebook.
I have extensive experience with mental health issues, alcohol and other drug addictions, depression and anxiety.
My thesis was on cannabis and mental health and this is an area I remain passionately interested in. I have presented at 17 national and international conferences on topics of cannabis and mental health, victims in the criminal justice system and religiously integrated CBT. See SetFreePsychology on Facebook.
(02) 9158 6630 View (02) 9158 6630
Photo of Alistair Powning, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Alistair Powning
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Summer Hill, NSW 2130
Alistair offers psychotherapy and counselling to support recovery for those experiencing stress or suffering, and to assist in developing tools to make overall change.
Alistair offers psychotherapy and counselling to support recovery for those experiencing stress or suffering, and to assist in developing tools to make overall change.
(02) 8261 0993 View (02) 8261 0993
Photo of Emma Mansell, Counsellor, PsychD, ACA-L1
Emma Mansell
Counsellor, PsychD, ACA-L1
Sydney, NSW 2000
Hello, my name is Emma, and I am an LGBTQIA+ therapist and business consultant specialising in mental health and addiction support.
I specialise in LGBTQIA+ therapy, supporting individuals exploring their gender identity or transitioning. With a gentle, client-paced approach, I aim to create a safe space where you feel understood and respected. Having faced challenges myself, I’m here to offer compassion, guidance, and support tailored to your unique journey.
Hello, my name is Emma, and I am an LGBTQIA+ therapist and business consultant specialising in mental health and addiction support.
I specialise in LGBTQIA+ therapy, supporting individuals exploring their gender identity or transitioning. With a gentle, client-paced approach, I aim to create a safe space where you feel understood and respected. Having faced challenges myself, I’m here to offer compassion, guidance, and support tailored to your unique journey.
(02) 8403 2271 View (02) 8403 2271
Photo of Nipunika Gunawardena, Counsellor, PACFA
Nipunika Gunawardena
Counsellor, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m a counsellor with ten years of experience supporting people who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to navigate stress, anxiety, addiction, gambling, trauma, parenting challenges, or low self-esteem.
Together, we’ll work in a way that feels right for you, whether using harm minimisation or abstinence-based approaches, and at a pace that suits your needs. My approach is gentle, client-centred, and trauma-informed. I provide practical tools and strategies to help you cope, build confidence, and improve overall wellbeing.
I’m a counsellor with ten years of experience supporting people who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to navigate stress, anxiety, addiction, gambling, trauma, parenting challenges, or low self-esteem.
Together, we’ll work in a way that feels right for you, whether using harm minimisation or abstinence-based approaches, and at a pace that suits your needs. My approach is gentle, client-centred, and trauma-informed. I provide practical tools and strategies to help you cope, build confidence, and improve overall wellbeing.
(02) 8403 2580 View (02) 8403 2580
Photo of Tara Hurster - The TARA Clinic, Psychologist, PsyBA General
The TARA Clinic
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
Society has viewed addiction as a weakness that you are powerless over or a defect of character only impacting those from lower socioeconomic status.
The TARA Clinic, where TARA is an acronym for Therapeutic Addiction Recovery Assistance, is the modern solution to addiction treatment. We understand that addiction is a symptom of something else, so we focus on building your overall well-being while you overcome your addiction.
Society has viewed addiction as a weakness that you are powerless over or a defect of character only impacting those from lower socioeconomic status.
The TARA Clinic, where TARA is an acronym for Therapeutic Addiction Recovery Assistance, is the modern solution to addiction treatment. We understand that addiction is a symptom of something else, so we focus on building your overall well-being while you overcome your addiction.
(02) 8074 5497 View (02) 8074 5497
White Lotus Counselling
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Online Only
My name is Aracely Duran and I work with clients that seek support for complex issues like trauma, anxiety, or family dynamics. They value a therapist who listens without judgment and offers practical strategies for coping and growth. Their goals include healing, improving relationships, and finding inner peace. They want to understand themselves better and navigate life's challenges with resilience. Ultimately, they seek a path to emotional well-being and a more fulfilling life, driven by a desire for personal growth and meaningful connections.
My name is Aracely Duran and I work with clients that seek support for complex issues like trauma, anxiety, or family dynamics. They value a therapist who listens without judgment and offers practical strategies for coping and growth. Their goals include healing, improving relationships, and finding inner peace. They want to understand themselves better and navigate life's challenges with resilience. Ultimately, they seek a path to emotional well-being and a more fulfilling life, driven by a desire for personal growth and meaningful connections.
(02) 9100 0440 View (02) 9100 0440
Photo of Gaby Browarczyk, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Gaby Browarczyk
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
I am passionate about supporting thriving, connection and personal growth. Utilizing creative, reflective and trauma informed practices together we work to support positive change in life’s most difficult and complex circumstances. Working in the here and now with what emerges in the therapeutic relationship we discover and uncover new awareness's. Some people don't like being in closed rooms and some enjoy connecting to nature ask me about my walk and talk session for grounding and re-energizing, clearing the mind of rumination, improve circulation, practice deep breathing, relieve body tension, regulate moods and decrease anxiety.
I am passionate about supporting thriving, connection and personal growth. Utilizing creative, reflective and trauma informed practices together we work to support positive change in life’s most difficult and complex circumstances. Working in the here and now with what emerges in the therapeutic relationship we discover and uncover new awareness's. Some people don't like being in closed rooms and some enjoy connecting to nature ask me about my walk and talk session for grounding and re-energizing, clearing the mind of rumination, improve circulation, practice deep breathing, relieve body tension, regulate moods and decrease anxiety.
(08) 6490 9056 View (08) 6490 9056
Photo of Aaron Skilton, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Aaron Skilton
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Frenchs Forest, NSW 2086
I specialise in the treatment of teenagers and adults, and focus on ADHD, anxiety, mood, impulsive behaviours, and addiction.
I am a clinical psychologist with immediate availability to begin treatment. I have broad experience in child and adult mental health and have worked in multiple treatment settings - the Centre for Emotional Health (child anxiety), St Vincent’s Hospital (adult anxiety, OCD, phobia, panic attacks, social anxiety), Westmead Children's Hospital (chronic illness, chronic pain), and the Sydney University Clinic (adult anxiety, depression, ADHD, family therapy). I am currently at Northern Beaches Hospital where I run in/outpatient group therapy programs, conduct assessments, and participate in clinical research.
I specialise in the treatment of teenagers and adults, and focus on ADHD, anxiety, mood, impulsive behaviours, and addiction.
I am a clinical psychologist with immediate availability to begin treatment. I have broad experience in child and adult mental health and have worked in multiple treatment settings - the Centre for Emotional Health (child anxiety), St Vincent’s Hospital (adult anxiety, OCD, phobia, panic attacks, social anxiety), Westmead Children's Hospital (chronic illness, chronic pain), and the Sydney University Clinic (adult anxiety, depression, ADHD, family therapy). I am currently at Northern Beaches Hospital where I run in/outpatient group therapy programs, conduct assessments, and participate in clinical research.
(02) 8403 0826 View (02) 8403 0826
Addiction Therapists
What is the best therapy for addiction?
Addiction treatment will be tailored to the individual. People seeking help for addiction—whether with a psychotherapist, in an outpatient clinic, or in a residential program—should expect to engage in multiple types of treatments, sometimes including medication. For anyone recovering from addiction, avoiding situations in which one has typically used a substance is essential, as is the support of close connections. Since substance use disorders tend to co-occur with underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression, those must also be addressed as part of any recovery plan.

How long does therapy for addiction take?
There is no set timeline for recovery from addiction. Patients and their families should expect the work to last several months, if not longer. Residential treatment programs may be based on a stay of 30, 60, or 90 days, with continuing work after release, but only about 1 percent of people are treated in such facilities. Ceasing use is just the first step; therapy to help maintain abstinence and effect behavior change must follow. The process of recovery, neuroscience has shown, involves brain cells recovering the capacity to respond to natural sources of reward and restore control over the impulse to use. Another definition of recovery is restoring voluntary control over one’s substance use and retaking all of one’s previous responsibilities.

How effective is drug addiction treatment?
Substance use disorders are treatable and remission is achievable for many who seek recovery; by some estimates, more than three-quarters of people who become addicted to alcohol or drugs recover. But that success rarely occurs quickly or on a set timeline; relapse is not only common, but many therapists and clinicians view it as a normal part of the process—not always a sign that a person has returned to addiction, but a signal that their treatment should be adjusted to help them regain control. Overall, research suggests, five years after the end of substance use, one’s risk of relapse is no greater than that of others who had not faced addiction. Other experts believe that complete abstinence is not the only measure of recovery, and that, through effective treatment, many people can learn to control their use.

How can you get addiction treatment for someone?
The most important factor in recovery from addiction is widely understood to be an individual’s commitment to change. For that reason,“interventions” in which friends and family gather to urge or force someone to begin immediate treatment often backfire; even when such efforts do lead someone to begin treatment, they may be less likely to stay than those who are self-driven. Still, family members can play an important role in supporting an individual who seeks help and can take part in family therapy as one element of a loved one’s treatment.