Alcohol Use Psychologists and Therapists in Petersham, NSW

Photo of Charlotte Ritchie - Charlotte Ritchie Counselling and Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Charlotte Ritchie Counselling and Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
I am passionate about partnering with people to help them tolerate extreme emotion, to learn and grow and be free to choose new behaviours. I have decades of lived and years of clinical experience with Alcohol and Other Drugs use and abuse and the traumas that so often lead to it and arise from it. I have understanding of complex PTSD and the Autonomic Nervous System and the ways our experiences get laid down in our systems and repeat themselves, often causing relationship upsets.
I am passionate about partnering with people to help them tolerate extreme emotion, to learn and grow and be free to choose new behaviours. I have decades of lived and years of clinical experience with Alcohol and Other Drugs use and abuse and the traumas that so often lead to it and arise from it. I have understanding of complex PTSD and the Autonomic Nervous System and the ways our experiences get laid down in our systems and repeat themselves, often causing relationship upsets.
(02) 9100 0566 View (02) 9100 0566
Photo of Paul Jessop, Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
Paul Jessop
Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
Petersham, NSW 2049
If you are looking for a safe, supportive space where you will be truly heard, accepted and empowered to move forward, I invite you to connect with me. I am passionate about helping people through depression, anxiety, mood disorders and addiction. I can walk beside you to help you navigate and integrate major life transitions and experiences.
If you are looking for a safe, supportive space where you will be truly heard, accepted and empowered to move forward, I invite you to connect with me. I am passionate about helping people through depression, anxiety, mood disorders and addiction. I can walk beside you to help you navigate and integrate major life transitions and experiences.
(02) 8000 1695 View (02) 8000 1695
Photo of Bronwyn Davies Glover - Bronwyn Davies Glover - As You Are Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Bronwyn Davies Glover - As You Are Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Bronwyn. I am an integrative, empathic, person-centred therapist bringing holistic, somatic, creative and dynamic approaches to the intersections of anti-oppressive, trauma informed practice. I offer inclusive, accessible therapy that values every aspect of the client. This means that I view each client as a whole person with a unique worldview informed by the stories of their mind-body experiences. Each unique individual requires a uniquely individual approach and this approach is grounded in the principles of trauma care; safety, trustworthiness, collaboration, empowerment and choice.
Hi, I'm Bronwyn. I am an integrative, empathic, person-centred therapist bringing holistic, somatic, creative and dynamic approaches to the intersections of anti-oppressive, trauma informed practice. I offer inclusive, accessible therapy that values every aspect of the client. This means that I view each client as a whole person with a unique worldview informed by the stories of their mind-body experiences. Each unique individual requires a uniquely individual approach and this approach is grounded in the principles of trauma care; safety, trustworthiness, collaboration, empowerment and choice.
(02) 8074 1609 View (02) 8074 1609
Photo of Maria Simonetta, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Maria Simonetta
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
When lingering or reoccurring issues arise they create within us a dissatisfaction about life and how we feel about ourselves. Issues such as relationship difficulties, addictions, career, life transitions, parenting, depression, anxiety, stress, body image, negative beliefs and thoughts, emotional overwhelm, aggression, low energy, impulsivity etc. can affect your self esteem and your ability to think clearly and solve problems effectively. Learning new skills, building on resilience and resources and dealing with past issues that affect your present life can be empowering and create satisfaction and fulfilment in your life.
When lingering or reoccurring issues arise they create within us a dissatisfaction about life and how we feel about ourselves. Issues such as relationship difficulties, addictions, career, life transitions, parenting, depression, anxiety, stress, body image, negative beliefs and thoughts, emotional overwhelm, aggression, low energy, impulsivity etc. can affect your self esteem and your ability to think clearly and solve problems effectively. Learning new skills, building on resilience and resources and dealing with past issues that affect your present life can be empowering and create satisfaction and fulfilment in your life.
(02) 8073 9397 View (02) 8073 9397
Photo of Joanne Francis, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Joanne Francis
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Clinical Psychologist with 22 years of experience working in both Public Mental Health and Private Practice. I have had the privilege of meeting clients from a range of backgrounds and presenting with vastly different situations and challenges to their mental health (both in psychiatric hospitals and in the community). I see my role as one that firstly needs to create a sense of safety and comfort and secondly brings in empathic challenges so that as a team we work towards a life that has purpose and meaning. I use models of therapy that are backed by science and align with my own values.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with 22 years of experience working in both Public Mental Health and Private Practice. I have had the privilege of meeting clients from a range of backgrounds and presenting with vastly different situations and challenges to their mental health (both in psychiatric hospitals and in the community). I see my role as one that firstly needs to create a sense of safety and comfort and secondly brings in empathic challenges so that as a team we work towards a life that has purpose and meaning. I use models of therapy that are backed by science and align with my own values.
(02) 9100 0571 View (02) 9100 0571
Photo of Lauren O'Donoghue, Psychotherapist, ACA-L1
Lauren O'Donoghue
Psychotherapist, ACA-L1
Serves Area
I support Queer, Neurodivergent, Chronically ill & Disabled folk, or anyone who may have felt misunderstood in traditional/allistic clinical settings. I integrate my lived experience with professional expertise to support clients navigating AuDHD, burnout, life transitions, relationship or workplace challenges, anxiety, substance use concerns etc. I am honoured to walk alongside my clients helping people to heal hurt, find their spark, cope with suffering, and come home to themselves. My work is grounded in social justice principals, and guided by my values of authenticity, integrity, humour, agency, and joy.
I support Queer, Neurodivergent, Chronically ill & Disabled folk, or anyone who may have felt misunderstood in traditional/allistic clinical settings. I integrate my lived experience with professional expertise to support clients navigating AuDHD, burnout, life transitions, relationship or workplace challenges, anxiety, substance use concerns etc. I am honoured to walk alongside my clients helping people to heal hurt, find their spark, cope with suffering, and come home to themselves. My work is grounded in social justice principals, and guided by my values of authenticity, integrity, humour, agency, and joy.
0403 912 902 View 0403 912 902
Photo of Chris Theodoridis, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Chris Theodoridis
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a registered psychologist, board approved supervisor and SIRA registered. I have also had extensive experience with NDIS clients, workcover, career coaching and vocational assessments/ reports.
I am a registered psychologist, board approved supervisor and SIRA registered. I have also had extensive experience with NDIS clients, workcover, career coaching and vocational assessments/ reports.
(02) 9100 0069 View (02) 9100 0069
Photo of Tim Carey, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Tim Carey
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I have over 20 years working with teens and adults in providing direct care to disabled and able bodied adults as a carer and psychologist. I help people with a wide range of issues: Depression, Anxiety, Substance Use, Loss and Grief, PTSD, Work Cover (SIRA accredited), and Compulsory Third Party.
I have over 20 years working with teens and adults in providing direct care to disabled and able bodied adults as a carer and psychologist. I help people with a wide range of issues: Depression, Anxiety, Substance Use, Loss and Grief, PTSD, Work Cover (SIRA accredited), and Compulsory Third Party.
0401 673 696 View 0401 673 696
Photo of Lisa Barrett, Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Lisa Barrett
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I offer trauma-informed counselling and psychotherapy, specialising in relational therapy, neglect and developmental trauma working primarily from an IFS lens. My practice integrates Gestalt therapy and Internal Family Systems to help clients build self-awareness, emotional resilience, and inner clarity. I support those navigating stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and unresolved trauma, providing a safe and supportive space for personal growth and healing.
I offer trauma-informed counselling and psychotherapy, specialising in relational therapy, neglect and developmental trauma working primarily from an IFS lens. My practice integrates Gestalt therapy and Internal Family Systems to help clients build self-awareness, emotional resilience, and inner clarity. I support those navigating stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and unresolved trauma, providing a safe and supportive space for personal growth and healing.
(02) 8806 0454 View (02) 8806 0454

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Daniel Brightwell, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Daniel Brightwell
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
Struggling with pornography, gambling, substance use, or compulsive technology use? When these patterns start to take hold, they can impact your relationships, work, and sense of who you are, but change is possible. I’m Daniel, a psychologist at Brightwell Psychology, and I work with adults who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or caught in cycles that no longer serve them. Using practical, evidence-based therapy, I help you regain control, reduce anxiety and stress, and build a life that feels more aligned with your values, one that is sustainable, meaningful, and genuinely your own
Struggling with pornography, gambling, substance use, or compulsive technology use? When these patterns start to take hold, they can impact your relationships, work, and sense of who you are, but change is possible. I’m Daniel, a psychologist at Brightwell Psychology, and I work with adults who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or caught in cycles that no longer serve them. Using practical, evidence-based therapy, I help you regain control, reduce anxiety and stress, and build a life that feels more aligned with your values, one that is sustainable, meaningful, and genuinely your own
(02) 8000 1158 View (02) 8000 1158
Photo of Dr Indi Kaur, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Dr Indi Kaur
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Online Only
It is difficult to find the right kind of help or choosing the right therapist. Dr Indi Kaur is a clinical psychologist with over twenty years of experience in helping individuals with a wide range of mental health issues including substance abuse. She place a high value working with clients towards a positive change.
It is difficult to find the right kind of help or choosing the right therapist. Dr Indi Kaur is a clinical psychologist with over twenty years of experience in helping individuals with a wide range of mental health issues including substance abuse. She place a high value working with clients towards a positive change.
(02) 9100 0611 View (02) 9100 0611
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 reality is that addiction doesn't discriminate! The TARA Clinic helps busy and successful people to regain control over substance use and addiction while leaving the guilt and shame behind, because we believe that everyone deserves to find the freedom they truly crave.
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 reality is that addiction doesn't discriminate! The TARA Clinic helps busy and successful people to regain control over substance use and addiction while leaving the guilt and shame behind, because we believe that everyone deserves to find the freedom they truly crave.
(02) 8074 5497 View (02) 8074 5497
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. I provide a warm, safe, and non-judgemental space where your experiences are heard, valued, and understood. I have extensive experience supporting people with alcohol, other drug, and gambling concerns, and I understand that everyone’s journey is unique. I also work with clients from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, offering care that is sensitive to your identity, values, and life experiences.
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. I provide a warm, safe, and non-judgemental space where your experiences are heard, valued, and understood. I have extensive experience supporting people with alcohol, other drug, and gambling concerns, and I understand that everyone’s journey is unique. I also work with clients from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, offering care that is sensitive to your identity, values, and life experiences.
(02) 8403 2580 View (02) 8403 2580
Photo of James Norman O'Connor - Clear Day Counselling and Coaching Services, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Do you struggle with drugs and or alcohol use problems?
We practice positive psychology. Our strategies are all focused on helping you get more out of life and living whilst simultaneously helping you with managing your symptoms. Our aim is to identify the root causes of your problems and concerns. Eliminating causes rather than symptoms we aim to help you get your enthusiasm for life and living back
Do you struggle with drugs and or alcohol use problems?
We practice positive psychology. Our strategies are all focused on helping you get more out of life and living whilst simultaneously helping you with managing your symptoms. Our aim is to identify the root causes of your problems and concerns. Eliminating causes rather than symptoms we aim to help you get your enthusiasm for life and living back
(02) 9100 0799 View (02) 9100 0799
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? Or are you already in recovery but experiencing high anxiety, coming up against obstacles in relationships, or finding your emotions overwhelming? If you're ready for change, I can provide you with the support you need to move beyond these difficulties and start living your life with purpose, peace, freedom and contentment.
Are you struggling with an eating disorder, alcoholism or an addiction? Or are you already in recovery but experiencing high anxiety, coming up against obstacles in relationships, or finding your emotions overwhelming? If you're ready for change, I can provide you with the support you need to move beyond these difficulties and start living your life with purpose, peace, freedom and contentment.
(02) 9159 6579 View (02) 9159 6579
Photo of Amber Rules, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Amber Rules
Psychotherapist, PACFA
5 Endorsed
Leichhardt, NSW 2040
Are you struggling with substances, gambling, smoking or other patterns that feel impossible to change? Or perhaps you're affected by someone else's addictive behaviours? As an experienced addiction support specialist, I help you understand these patterns and manage the chaos they create. Together, we'll combine practical education, evidence-based strategies, and counselling to help you make choices that align with the life you want. I also work with clients experiencing challenges including ADHD, chronic pain, relationship difficulties, and complex mental health diagnoses.
Are you struggling with substances, gambling, smoking or other patterns that feel impossible to change? Or perhaps you're affected by someone else's addictive behaviours? As an experienced addiction support specialist, I help you understand these patterns and manage the chaos they create. Together, we'll combine practical education, evidence-based strategies, and counselling to help you make choices that align with the life you want. I also work with clients experiencing challenges including ADHD, chronic pain, relationship difficulties, and complex mental health diagnoses.
(02) 9158 6064 View (02) 9158 6064
Photo of James Norman O'Connor, Psychotherapist, MPsych, ACA-L4
James Norman O'Connor
Psychotherapist, MPsych, ACA-L4
Sydney, NSW 2000
I help people overcome all relationship problems including intimacy, communiction, connection, conflict, drug and alcohol use and confidence and anxiety concerns.
Hi I'm Jim O'Connor clinical psychotherapist and relationship therapist. I help people overcome the challenges they face in their relationships. If you're someone who is single and wishing to get into a relationship but you don't know how to find the right person, then I can help. If your in a relationship and you want to create more connection, I can show you how. If you're in an abusive relationship and you don't know if you should leave or stay I can help you decide and I will support you what ever you decide. If it has anything to do with dating or relating in the modern world I can help.
I help people overcome all relationship problems including intimacy, communiction, connection, conflict, drug and alcohol use and confidence and anxiety concerns.
Hi I'm Jim O'Connor clinical psychotherapist and relationship therapist. I help people overcome the challenges they face in their relationships. If you're someone who is single and wishing to get into a relationship but you don't know how to find the right person, then I can help. If your in a relationship and you want to create more connection, I can show you how. If you're in an abusive relationship and you don't know if you should leave or stay I can help you decide and I will support you what ever you decide. If it has anything to do with dating or relating in the modern world I can help.
(02) 9100 0073 View (02) 9100 0073
Photo of Wendy Holmes - Spinifex Rural and Remote Wellbeing Services, Social Worker, MA, AASW
Spinifex Rural and Remote Wellbeing Services
Social Worker, MA, AASW
Online Only
I like clients to feel comfortable when coming to see me, I take a relaxed approach to practice. I'm very down to earth and this seems to work well for my clients.
I like clients to feel comfortable when coming to see me, I take a relaxed approach to practice. I'm very down to earth and this seems to work well for my clients.
(03) 4328 2404 View (03) 4328 2404
Photo of Oliver Lewis, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Oliver Lewis
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Online Only
I am a qualified counsellor/psychotherapist based in Canberra who specialises in trauma and addiction. I have extensive experience in the not-for-profit and private sectors, supporting adults with mental health and psychosocial conditions, such as PTSD, CPTSD, substance use disorders, personality disorders, anxiety and depression. I’m an accredited EMDR practitioner, a registered clinical counsellor with PACFA and a qualified Social Worker and member of the AASW. I provide online psychotherapy sessions to adults (+18) across Australia and in-person sessions to individuals based in Canberra (office based in Turner, ACT).
I am a qualified counsellor/psychotherapist based in Canberra who specialises in trauma and addiction. I have extensive experience in the not-for-profit and private sectors, supporting adults with mental health and psychosocial conditions, such as PTSD, CPTSD, substance use disorders, personality disorders, anxiety and depression. I’m an accredited EMDR practitioner, a registered clinical counsellor with PACFA and a qualified Social Worker and member of the AASW. I provide online psychotherapy sessions to adults (+18) across Australia and in-person sessions to individuals based in Canberra (office based in Turner, ACT).
(02) 5135 1932 View (02) 5135 1932
Photo of Clair Sara Martin, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Clair Sara Martin
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Serves Area
I believe that seeking support takes courage, and my goal is to provide a space where you feel safe, respected, and understood. My approach is strengths-based and collaborative, focusing on your unique experiences, abilities, and goals. I work with young people and adults to help them navigate challenges, build resilience, and develop practical tools for lasting change. I also offer clinical supervision to support other practitioners in their professional development.
I believe that seeking support takes courage, and my goal is to provide a space where you feel safe, respected, and understood. My approach is strengths-based and collaborative, focusing on your unique experiences, abilities, and goals. I work with young people and adults to help them navigate challenges, build resilience, and develop practical tools for lasting change. I also offer clinical supervision to support other practitioners in their professional development.
(02) 5944 5487 View (02) 5944 5487
Alcohol Use Therapists
Are there specific medications for alcohol use?
There are oral medications approved to treat alcohol use disorder—such as disulfiram, acamprosate, and naltrexone, which also comes in an injectable form. These medications do help people reduce their drinking as well as avoid the problem of relapse. Naltrexone helps reduce cravings, disulfiram can make a person feel sick when they drink, and acamprosate may help ease symptoms like poor sleep and anxious feelings.

How do alcohol recovery or rehabilitation programs work?
In inpatient programs, individuals live in a facility with other patients in recovery; in outpatient programs,individuals live at home. These facilities are staffed with healthcare professionals including physicians, nurses, psychologists, counselors, and psychotherapists. Staff can also include people who have recovered themselves, serving as mentors and guides. These programs may use abstinence, harm reduction, detoxification, psychotherapy, and other tools for recovery.

How do 12-step programs combined with psychotherapy work?
Members of 12-step programs help each other reach abstinence and work to maintain it. These programs promote complete change in the individual’s emotional, mental, physical, and even spiritual perspectives. Some programs require that new members attend 90 meetings in 90 days. Many people do attend these programs in conjunction with their work in psychotherapy; the combination of therapy along with 12-step can be extremely effective.

How does harm reduction combined with psychotherapy work?
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, harm reduction prevents death, injury, disease, overdose, and substance misuse. People who choose harm reduction for alcohol use reduce the amount of alcohol they intake. It is not abstinence-based like a 12-step program, but combining harm reduction with psychotherapy proves to be effective for many people.