Domestic Abuse Psychologists and Therapists in Newtown, NSW

Lydia Velnic
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
Newtown, NSW 2042
Life can be challenging at times. It may feel like the simplest tasks that used to be achievable are now insurmountable. The things you used to enjoyed may not be as enjoyable anymore and you may feel like you're stuck in a work/life imbalance that has taken away any pleasure or meaning in your life. Counselling can help by providing a space to express your thoughts, process your feelings and gain perspective in order to change those behaviours that are limiting your quality of life. Small incremental changes are possible. You are worthy of living a meaningful and purposeful life.
Life can be challenging at times. It may feel like the simplest tasks that used to be achievable are now insurmountable. The things you used to enjoyed may not be as enjoyable anymore and you may feel like you're stuck in a work/life imbalance that has taken away any pleasure or meaning in your life. Counselling can help by providing a space to express your thoughts, process your feelings and gain perspective in order to change those behaviours that are limiting your quality of life. Small incremental changes are possible. You are worthy of living a meaningful and purposeful life.
(02) 8074 5848 View (02) 8074 5848
Gus Ferreira
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Online Only
I predominantly work with adolescents, adults, older adults, couples, and families who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward. They may be navigating stress, relationship challenges, identity questions, cultural transitions, or family expectations. They want a space to speak openly without judgment while staying focused on meaningful change. Their goals are to better understand their emotions and patterns, improve communication and relationships, feel more grounded, and develop practical ways to cope and make decisions with greater clarity and confidence.
I predominantly work with adolescents, adults, older adults, couples, and families who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward. They may be navigating stress, relationship challenges, identity questions, cultural transitions, or family expectations. They want a space to speak openly without judgment while staying focused on meaningful change. Their goals are to better understand their emotions and patterns, improve communication and relationships, feel more grounded, and develop practical ways to cope and make decisions with greater clarity and confidence.
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Vivien Suttner
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Newtown, NSW 2042
I am a clinical psychologist consulting with adults and young people to help them overcome challenges, reduce anxiety, depression and stress, and achieve greater understanding, contentment and meaning. I provide a strengths-based approach which is open-minded, compassionate and authentic, leading to the development of alternative perspectives and relief from psychological distress. I work with people who may be struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, obsessive thinking, challenging circumstances, adjustment to change, relationship issues, work or career issues with self-confidence or self-esteem, or deeper existential issues.
I am a clinical psychologist consulting with adults and young people to help them overcome challenges, reduce anxiety, depression and stress, and achieve greater understanding, contentment and meaning. I provide a strengths-based approach which is open-minded, compassionate and authentic, leading to the development of alternative perspectives and relief from psychological distress. I work with people who may be struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, obsessive thinking, challenging circumstances, adjustment to change, relationship issues, work or career issues with self-confidence or self-esteem, or deeper existential issues.
(02) 9100 0804 View (02) 9100 0804
Chuqiao Sun
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Newtown, NSW 2042
I'm also registered as a Victim Services counsellor that allows for government subsidies .
I'm a person-centred, somatically informed therapist working in this field for the past 8 years. You might be a good fit with me if you're curious about understanding yourself and what’s really going on around you — but find that it's complex, overwhelming, or anxiety-inducing to try. I worked extensively with complex PTSD, DV, attachment issues, parenting, depression, separation, addiction, and more. Though sometimes it can feel like things can't possibly change, I find my clients picking up pieces of themselves along the way, and so when things fall apart again, we both know that none of them were ever truly lost.
I'm also registered as a Victim Services counsellor that allows for government subsidies .
I'm a person-centred, somatically informed therapist working in this field for the past 8 years. You might be a good fit with me if you're curious about understanding yourself and what’s really going on around you — but find that it's complex, overwhelming, or anxiety-inducing to try. I worked extensively with complex PTSD, DV, attachment issues, parenting, depression, separation, addiction, and more. Though sometimes it can feel like things can't possibly change, I find my clients picking up pieces of themselves along the way, and so when things fall apart again, we both know that none of them were ever truly lost.
0478 651 273 View 0478 651 273
Ashlee Helene
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Newtown, NSW 2042
I’m a psychologist who works from a relational, trauma-informed, and body-aware perspective. I believe therapy works best when you feel safe, understood, and not rushed into “fixing” yourself. My role isn’t to tell you what to do, but to walk alongside you as we make sense of your experiences, patterns, and nervous system responses. I typically work with adults who feel stuck in cycles of anxiety, overwhelm, emotional reactivity, or disconnection, often shaped by complex trauma, attachment wounds, difficult relationships, or long-standing stress.
I’m a psychologist who works from a relational, trauma-informed, and body-aware perspective. I believe therapy works best when you feel safe, understood, and not rushed into “fixing” yourself. My role isn’t to tell you what to do, but to walk alongside you as we make sense of your experiences, patterns, and nervous system responses. I typically work with adults who feel stuck in cycles of anxiety, overwhelm, emotional reactivity, or disconnection, often shaped by complex trauma, attachment wounds, difficult relationships, or long-standing stress.
(02) 7501 1620 View (02) 7501 1620
Corey Ferguson
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Prov
Newtown, NSW 2042
I have extensive experience with a wide range of issues, including ADHD, gender identity, gender dysphoria, dissociative disorders, mood disorders, family and relationship conflicts, and complex trauma and abuse.
My main goal is to create a warm, welcoming therapeutic space where everyone feels included and valued, especially those in the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent community. I enjoy helping clients embrace and show kindness to the parts of themselves they find challenging, while providing them with the tools to navigate life's twists and turns.
I have extensive experience with a wide range of issues, including ADHD, gender identity, gender dysphoria, dissociative disorders, mood disorders, family and relationship conflicts, and complex trauma and abuse.
My main goal is to create a warm, welcoming therapeutic space where everyone feels included and valued, especially those in the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent community. I enjoy helping clients embrace and show kindness to the parts of themselves they find challenging, while providing them with the tools to navigate life's twists and turns.
(02) 9159 6647 View (02) 9159 6647
Transforming Relationships & Celebrating Pleasure
Counsellor, MSc, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Newtown, NSW 2042
Life's a rollercoaster, and sometimes you need a co-pilot. I'm here to help you navigate the twists and turns of love, sex, and everything in between. We'll laugh, we'll cry, and we'll definitely have some "aha!" moments. Let's ditch the shame and create a life that's truly fulfilling.
Life's a rollercoaster, and sometimes you need a co-pilot. I'm here to help you navigate the twists and turns of love, sex, and everything in between. We'll laugh, we'll cry, and we'll definitely have some "aha!" moments. Let's ditch the shame and create a life that's truly fulfilling.
(02) 8000 1493 View (02) 8000 1493
Patrick Rory-John Hukins
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Online Only
Hi, I’m Patrick Rory-John (they/them), a Psychotherapist and Counsellor with a deep commitment to supporting individuals through their unique journeys. My practice focuses on sexuality, gender, and relationship therapy. I work with individuals experiencing a wide variety of concerns from navigating complex relationships, sexuality, and gender affirming care, to coping with trauma, disability and mental health struggles. I am passionate about creating an environment where clients feel respected heard, and empowered to be their authentic selves.
Hi, I’m Patrick Rory-John (they/them), a Psychotherapist and Counsellor with a deep commitment to supporting individuals through their unique journeys. My practice focuses on sexuality, gender, and relationship therapy. I work with individuals experiencing a wide variety of concerns from navigating complex relationships, sexuality, and gender affirming care, to coping with trauma, disability and mental health struggles. I am passionate about creating an environment where clients feel respected heard, and empowered to be their authentic selves.
(02) 9100 0428 View (02) 9100 0428
Chana - Couple and Relationship Therapist
Social Worker, MA, AASW
Serves Area
Hello I am Chana, I work with couples and individuals who feel stuck in repeating relationship patterns - the same arguments, the same disconnections, the same sense of not quite being heard or understood. Often, the problem isn’t a lack of love, but getting caught in cycles that leave everyone feeling frustrated, defensive, or alone. As a Couple, Family, and Relationship Therapist, I support people navigating ongoing conflict, breakdowns in communication, emotional distance, and the aftermath of ruptures in trust.
Hello I am Chana, I work with couples and individuals who feel stuck in repeating relationship patterns - the same arguments, the same disconnections, the same sense of not quite being heard or understood. Often, the problem isn’t a lack of love, but getting caught in cycles that leave everyone feeling frustrated, defensive, or alone. As a Couple, Family, and Relationship Therapist, I support people navigating ongoing conflict, breakdowns in communication, emotional distance, and the aftermath of ruptures in trust.
0448 410 144 View 0448 410 144
George Turnure Clinical Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Serves Area
I'm a clinical psychologist who works with people who are hoping to cope better with strong moods such as sadness, low mood or depression, anger or if feeling constantly worried, nervous or anxious. Working together we will find out how this has developed and why it hasn't gone away. In this way we can gain an understanding of the issue and develop skills and strategies to cope better right now, and to manage and/or prevent these issues from returning in the future.
I'm a clinical psychologist who works with people who are hoping to cope better with strong moods such as sadness, low mood or depression, anger or if feeling constantly worried, nervous or anxious. Working together we will find out how this has developed and why it hasn't gone away. In this way we can gain an understanding of the issue and develop skills and strategies to cope better right now, and to manage and/or prevent these issues from returning in the future.
(02) 9053 4659 View (02) 9053 4659
Michael Grunwald
Psychologist, Assoc MAPS
Serves Area
I am a Registered General Psychologist, Counsellor and Psychotherapist experienced in working with a wide range of common adult mental health concerns in an open, sincere and frank manner, including depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment and OCD disorders as well as various addictions (alcohol, drug, gambling, sex, internet) and recovery. As an older therapist, I bring decades of life experience into my counselling, with personal experience of many of the challenges facing clients, including trauma, grief/loss, neurodiversity (e.g. ADHD), sex/relationship/men's issues, workplace stress/bullying, hoarding, parenting and adoption.
I am a Registered General Psychologist, Counsellor and Psychotherapist experienced in working with a wide range of common adult mental health concerns in an open, sincere and frank manner, including depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment and OCD disorders as well as various addictions (alcohol, drug, gambling, sex, internet) and recovery. As an older therapist, I bring decades of life experience into my counselling, with personal experience of many of the challenges facing clients, including trauma, grief/loss, neurodiversity (e.g. ADHD), sex/relationship/men's issues, workplace stress/bullying, hoarding, parenting and adoption.
(02) 8806 0512 View (02) 8806 0512
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
Andrea Michelle Schilder
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Clinical Psychologist working in Camperdown with 25 years experience treating a wide range of mental health problems including anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, adjustment disorder and psychotic illness.
Clinical Psychologist working in Camperdown with 25 years experience treating a wide range of mental health problems including anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, adjustment disorder and psychotic illness.
(02) 9159 6581 View (02) 9159 6581
Jodi Wild - Relationship Therapist
Counsellor, PACFA
Online Only
I specialise in post-separation, family dynamics, trauma, and domestic violence, offering compassionate, skilled support.
My focus is supporting individuals and families through challenging transitions—helping you find stability, clarity, and genuine connection. With over a decade of experience in post-separation, trauma, and relationship therapy, I offer a down-to-earth, practical approach grounded in warmth, curiosity, and honest self-reflection.
I specialise in post-separation, family dynamics, trauma, and domestic violence, offering compassionate, skilled support.
My focus is supporting individuals and families through challenging transitions—helping you find stability, clarity, and genuine connection. With over a decade of experience in post-separation, trauma, and relationship therapy, I offer a down-to-earth, practical approach grounded in warmth, curiosity, and honest self-reflection.
(02) 8105 6882 View (02) 8105 6882
Kate Zughbi
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Serves Area
I have over 20 years experience as a Psychotherapist and Accredited Mental Health Social Worker working alongside these that have experienced Refugee torture and trauma, abuse and PTSD and those living with personality disorders, anxiety, stress, depression, emotional dysregulation, low self-esteem, peer & relationship challenges, racism and discrimination.
Are you struggling with issues relating to trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, relationships, managing your emotions or just feeling overwhelmed and don't know where to start? I endeavour to provide a space where you are seen and heard, and recognise that our mental health is shaped not only by our individual experiences, but also by our relationships, culture, identity, and the broader systems we live within. I also provide clinical supervision for mental health professionals, offering a reflective and collaborative space that can be shaped around your needs — whether for guidance, support, or deepening reflective practice
I have over 20 years experience as a Psychotherapist and Accredited Mental Health Social Worker working alongside these that have experienced Refugee torture and trauma, abuse and PTSD and those living with personality disorders, anxiety, stress, depression, emotional dysregulation, low self-esteem, peer & relationship challenges, racism and discrimination.
Are you struggling with issues relating to trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, relationships, managing your emotions or just feeling overwhelmed and don't know where to start? I endeavour to provide a space where you are seen and heard, and recognise that our mental health is shaped not only by our individual experiences, but also by our relationships, culture, identity, and the broader systems we live within. I also provide clinical supervision for mental health professionals, offering a reflective and collaborative space that can be shaped around your needs — whether for guidance, support, or deepening reflective practice
(02) 9100 0485 View (02) 9100 0485
Kelly Breen
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Online Only
I have extensive experience working with those impacted by trauma (c/PTSD), addiction, self-harm, and eating disorders. I also help people navigate the challenges associated with relationship issues, life transitions, depression, and anxiety. My integrative therapy style incorporates evidence-based modalities like EMDR, Schema, IFS, psychodynamic approaches, Mindfulness, and ACT. As a trained yoga teacher, I integrate these practices and somatic work. I am trained to provide psychedelic integration & preparation support and the Safe and Sound protocol for nervous system regulation.
I have extensive experience working with those impacted by trauma (c/PTSD), addiction, self-harm, and eating disorders. I also help people navigate the challenges associated with relationship issues, life transitions, depression, and anxiety. My integrative therapy style incorporates evidence-based modalities like EMDR, Schema, IFS, psychodynamic approaches, Mindfulness, and ACT. As a trained yoga teacher, I integrate these practices and somatic work. I am trained to provide psychedelic integration & preparation support and the Safe and Sound protocol for nervous system regulation.
(03) 9007 2718 View (03) 9007 2718
Jennifer Perkins Counselling & Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
Serves Area
EMDR Certified, IFS trained and a vision towards social justice, Jennifer is excellent with loss, PTSD, trauma, abuse and other difficult experiences.
Life is meant to be lived with joy. Let's help eliminate some barriers. Jennifer is an extremely well qualified therapist who works with you to help solve problems. She is trauma informed with a specialty in relationships. This means she is excellent at helping you work through a difficult family history, messy relationships, anxiety, stress & challenging work situations. If you are looking for strength + compassion, understanding + the blunt truth, empathy + solutions, you have found the right space. With a belief and passion that you are your best resource, she helps you find that inner strength & wisdom you thought was missing.
EMDR Certified, IFS trained and a vision towards social justice, Jennifer is excellent with loss, PTSD, trauma, abuse and other difficult experiences.
Life is meant to be lived with joy. Let's help eliminate some barriers. Jennifer is an extremely well qualified therapist who works with you to help solve problems. She is trauma informed with a specialty in relationships. This means she is excellent at helping you work through a difficult family history, messy relationships, anxiety, stress & challenging work situations. If you are looking for strength + compassion, understanding + the blunt truth, empathy + solutions, you have found the right space. With a belief and passion that you are your best resource, she helps you find that inner strength & wisdom you thought was missing.
(02) 8074 5705 View (02) 8074 5705
Cassandra Mallos
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Cassandra. I provide a safe and supportive space for individual or couples seeking to improve their mental wellbeing or quality of their relationships. Struggling to cope with distressing emotions like anxiety? Having trouble navigating life transitions? Want to improve the way you connect with others? My approach blends evidence-based therapies and compassion to help you achieve your goals, and ultimately improve your quality of life.
Hi, I'm Cassandra. I provide a safe and supportive space for individual or couples seeking to improve their mental wellbeing or quality of their relationships. Struggling to cope with distressing emotions like anxiety? Having trouble navigating life transitions? Want to improve the way you connect with others? My approach blends evidence-based therapies and compassion to help you achieve your goals, and ultimately improve your quality of life.
(02) 8000 1071 View (02) 8000 1071
Kate Mackie
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
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.
My style is warm, empowering & transparent. I feel honoured to bear witness to each person’s hardships and growth. It is a privilege to play a role in each person’s healing journey and I’m truly humbled by the resilience of humans.
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.
My style is warm, empowering & transparent. I feel honoured to bear witness to each person’s hardships and growth. It is a privilege to play a role in each person’s healing journey and I’m truly humbled by the resilience of humans.
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Atia Burian Tani
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
I bring four decades of experience in psychotherapy, counselling and art. I work with individuals, couples, and family members who seek to change their relationships with themselves and others. I aim to open possibilities to people who have little hope for change, struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma symptoms, feeling overwhelmed and lost. This is often accompanied by counterproductive soothing behaviours such as substance use, addiction to gambling, gaming, sex, or screen use. Further, some clients may stay in relationships that deepen their belief that they cannot become the agents of their own lives.
I bring four decades of experience in psychotherapy, counselling and art. I work with individuals, couples, and family members who seek to change their relationships with themselves and others. I aim to open possibilities to people who have little hope for change, struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma symptoms, feeling overwhelmed and lost. This is often accompanied by counterproductive soothing behaviours such as substance use, addiction to gambling, gaming, sex, or screen use. Further, some clients may stay in relationships that deepen their belief that they cannot become the agents of their own lives.
(02) 6189 2979 View (02) 6189 2979

See more therapy options for Newtown

Domestic Abuse Therapists
What are the most effective ways to recover from domestic abuse?
Leaving an abusive relationship requires tremendous courage, so survivors in treatment should recognise that they have already completed the most important step. Still, the trauma of physical or emotional abuse can be difficult to process and overcome. Therapy can help survivors process trauma, grief, and difficult emotions, treat relevant mental health symptoms, and create a new framework for boundaries and relationships in the future. For some, support groups can also be an invaluable outlet for healing.

When should an individual seek help for domestic abuse?
Victims of intimate partner violence should seek help immediately. It can take substantial time, planning, energy, and courage to leave an abusive relationship, but starting the process—by seeking therapy, calling the domestic violence hotline, or simply confiding in a loved one—will help them get there. Those who have left abusive relationships but haven’t sought treatment can also greatly benefit from therapy to process and heal from the experience.

What are the consequences of staying in an abusive relationship?
Remaining in an abusive relationship has serious repercussions. In addition to the ongoing threat of physical danger and emotional abuse, research shows that intimate partner violence is associated with a range of mental health disorders including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and substance abuse. Therefore it’s important for individuals in an abusive relationship to seek help as soon as possible.

How can you get domestic abuse treatment for someone else?
It can be very complicated to identify and leave an abusive relationship; barriers include the threat of violence, financial instability, and family pressures. Those concerned about a loved one in an abusive relationship should talk to them about the situation, provide them with resources such as the domestic violence hotline, and introduce the idea of seeing a therapist due to their concern for the person’s safety and well-being.