Anxiety Psychologists and Therapists in Petersham, NSW

Photo of Rebecca Harrison, Social Worker, AMHSW
Rebecca Harrison
Social Worker, AMHSW
Petersham, NSW 2049
I specialise in anxiety, including generalised anxiety, panic disorders and social anxiety, eating disorders, body image concerns, trauma, obsessive compulsive disorders, and mood and relationship difficulties.
An experienced provider of individual and group therapy, I've led implementation of specialist programs and services, offered consultation, clinical supervision and workforce development in a range of settings.
I specialise in anxiety, including generalised anxiety, panic disorders and social anxiety, eating disorders, body image concerns, trauma, obsessive compulsive disorders, and mood and relationship difficulties.
An experienced provider of individual and group therapy, I've led implementation of specialist programs and services, offered consultation, clinical supervision and workforce development in a range of settings.
(02) 9909 6136 View (02) 9909 6136
Photo of Paul Jessop, Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
Paul Jessop
Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
Petersham, NSW 2049
I am passionate about helping people through depression, anxiety, mood disorders and addiction.
My approach is holistic and integrative utilising a toolbox of healing and therapeutic modalities, drawing on my many years of experience of practice, study, working in the corporate world, as well as my own life experience of healing and self-exploration.
I am passionate about helping people through depression, anxiety, mood disorders and addiction.
My approach is holistic and integrative utilising a toolbox of healing and therapeutic modalities, drawing on my many years of experience of practice, study, working in the corporate world, as well as my own life experience of healing and self-exploration.
(02) 8000 1695 View (02) 8000 1695
Photo of Von Coves, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Von Coves
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
Dissociation? TRAUMA? CPTSD? Perhaps you’ve tried therapy but it hasn’t helped at a deeper level. Perhaps you've felt judged or misunderstood. Yet therapy doesn’t have to be miserable! Healing is often found in the quality of your relationship with your therapist. If you experience complex trauma and dissociation, it doesn’t mean there’s something wrong with you. It just means that responses that helped you survive in the past are getting in the way in the present. Together, with patience and understanding, we can update these patterns so you can feel better. Using IFS, EMDR, Psychodynamic approaches. You are welcome to contact me.
Dissociation? TRAUMA? CPTSD? Perhaps you’ve tried therapy but it hasn’t helped at a deeper level. Perhaps you've felt judged or misunderstood. Yet therapy doesn’t have to be miserable! Healing is often found in the quality of your relationship with your therapist. If you experience complex trauma and dissociation, it doesn’t mean there’s something wrong with you. It just means that responses that helped you survive in the past are getting in the way in the present. Together, with patience and understanding, we can update these patterns so you can feel better. Using IFS, EMDR, Psychodynamic approaches. You are welcome to contact me.
(02) 9100 0400 View (02) 9100 0400
Photo of Maya Floyd - existential psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
existential psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
For anyone struggling with anxiety, depression, confusion, guilt, shame, feeling numb or disconnected in relationships, facing a major life change or bereavement, or struggling with addiction or legacy of trauma, or just how to navigate the current world, counselling can give you the space to speak freely about your experience, fears, needs, and desired solutions.
My unique blend of existentially oriented approach and background in psychology allows clients to experience counselling that is deeply personal to their concerns, and begins with the client's experience and understanding of the problem. You are able to use an existing referral from your GP to claim Medicare rebates for up to 10 sessions.
For anyone struggling with anxiety, depression, confusion, guilt, shame, feeling numb or disconnected in relationships, facing a major life change or bereavement, or struggling with addiction or legacy of trauma, or just how to navigate the current world, counselling can give you the space to speak freely about your experience, fears, needs, and desired solutions.
My unique blend of existentially oriented approach and background in psychology allows clients to experience counselling that is deeply personal to their concerns, and begins with the client's experience and understanding of the problem. You are able to use an existing referral from your GP to claim Medicare rebates for up to 10 sessions.
0423 701 157 View 0423 701 157
Photo of Cassandra Mallos, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Cassandra Mallos
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Struggling to cope with distressing emotions like anxiety?
In individual therapy, we'll process anxieties, stress, and past experiences that impact your sense of self and relationship with others. You'll learn effective coping strategies to manage overwhelming emotions and cultivate self-compassion and acceptance. For couples, we'll work on turning conflict into connection.
Struggling to cope with distressing emotions like anxiety?
In individual therapy, we'll process anxieties, stress, and past experiences that impact your sense of self and relationship with others. You'll learn effective coping strategies to manage overwhelming emotions and cultivate self-compassion and acceptance. For couples, we'll work on turning conflict into connection.
(02) 8000 1071 View (02) 8000 1071
Photo of Tim Carey, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Tim Carey
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
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 use a range of therapies, but primarily use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) as it addresses the needs of the whole person. ACT does this by helping us to deliberately notice unwanted thoughts and feelings, and how much we ‘buy into’ them. We then see whether their attempts to control thoughts and feelings is working to build a life with meanining.
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 use a range of therapies, but primarily use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) as it addresses the needs of the whole person. ACT does this by helping us to deliberately notice unwanted thoughts and feelings, and how much we ‘buy into’ them. We then see whether their attempts to control thoughts and feelings is working to build a life with meanining.
0401 673 696 View 0401 673 696
Photo of Lisa Barrett, Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Lisa Barrett
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I support those navigating stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and unresolved trauma, providing a safe and supportive space for personal growth and healing.
A holistic approach incorporates physical, emotional, social and spiritual aspects as you learn to welcome all parts of yourself. IFS Therapy is a leading evidence-based model of therapy that incorporates elements of Somatic Therapy, Hakomi, Family Systems, Mindfulness and Neuroscience. This helps improve relationships & reduce anxiety & depression.
I support those navigating stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and unresolved trauma, providing a safe and supportive space for personal growth and healing.
A holistic approach incorporates physical, emotional, social and spiritual aspects as you learn to welcome all parts of yourself. IFS Therapy is a leading evidence-based model of therapy that incorporates elements of Somatic Therapy, Hakomi, Family Systems, Mindfulness and Neuroscience. This helps improve relationships & reduce anxiety & depression.
(02) 8806 0454 View (02) 8806 0454
Photo of Sam Felicity Baran - Sam Baran (Inner Orbit Therapy), Psychotherapist, PACFA
Sam Baran (Inner Orbit Therapy)
Psychotherapist, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Together, we can look at hard stuff around relationships, identity, stress, anxiety, and existence with a view of boosting self-esteem and reducing distress.
I use a mix of person-centred and somatic approaches with the aim of settling your nervous system and building resilience to the emotional ups and downs of life. Humour and creativity lie at the heart of my approach. Therapy is a collaborative, ongoing process—we'll adjust things as we go, switching up the process as needed to find new ways forward.
Together, we can look at hard stuff around relationships, identity, stress, anxiety, and existence with a view of boosting self-esteem and reducing distress.
I use a mix of person-centred and somatic approaches with the aim of settling your nervous system and building resilience to the emotional ups and downs of life. Humour and creativity lie at the heart of my approach. Therapy is a collaborative, ongoing process—we'll adjust things as we go, switching up the process as needed to find new ways forward.
(02) 8000 1501 View (02) 8000 1501
Photo of James Croft, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
James Croft
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Please reach out via the Croft Psychology website. James is a warm and friendly Clinical Psychologist specialising in individual therapy for adults. His kind and non-judgemental demeanour helps you to settle into therapy, open up, and be yourself. You will feel safe and heard, all the while knowing you’re in very capable hands.
Please reach out via the Croft Psychology website. James is a warm and friendly Clinical Psychologist specialising in individual therapy for adults. His kind and non-judgemental demeanour helps you to settle into therapy, open up, and be yourself. You will feel safe and heard, all the while knowing you’re in very capable hands.
(02) 9538 7957 View (02) 9538 7957
Photo of Toni Leemen, Psychotherapist
Toni Leemen
Psychotherapist
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I trained as a therapist because I know the grief, health-related anxiety and depression of chronic illness can be overwhelming.
I work holistically with the mind-body connection using present experience. Greater awareness of the nuances between physical symptoms, emotions, sensations and patterns of thinking and experience can create more choice, a better relationship with yourself, your body and your condition.
I trained as a therapist because I know the grief, health-related anxiety and depression of chronic illness can be overwhelming.
I work holistically with the mind-body connection using present experience. Greater awareness of the nuances between physical symptoms, emotions, sensations and patterns of thinking and experience can create more choice, a better relationship with yourself, your body and your condition.
(02) 9159 6502 View (02) 9159 6502
Photo of Roberta Iavarone, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Roberta Iavarone
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
You may feel anxious & overwhelmed and in need of support to help you confidently build skills so you can work towards the things that you really care about & want?
I have extensive experience using individually tailored, strengths based therapies including mindfulness, compassion & trauma focused therapies & EMDR. My approach above all else is to help bring awareness to limiting patterns & behaviours which no longer serve your needs & goals & to equip you to make the changes that you are seeking.
You may feel anxious & overwhelmed and in need of support to help you confidently build skills so you can work towards the things that you really care about & want?
I have extensive experience using individually tailored, strengths based therapies including mindfulness, compassion & trauma focused therapies & EMDR. My approach above all else is to help bring awareness to limiting patterns & behaviours which no longer serve your needs & goals & to equip you to make the changes that you are seeking.
(02) 9100 0107 View (02) 9100 0107
Photo of Patrick McGrath, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Patrick McGrath
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I am a clinical psychologist who works across a variety of presentations including anxiety and mood disorders.
I’ve worked with children through to older adults, and have come to primarily focus on the treatment of adults. This experience has taught me to value the lived experience that someone brings to treatment and to work collaboratively to achieve their goals.
I am a clinical psychologist who works across a variety of presentations including anxiety and mood disorders.
I’ve worked with children through to older adults, and have come to primarily focus on the treatment of adults. This experience has taught me to value the lived experience that someone brings to treatment and to work collaboratively to achieve their goals.
(02) 8074 5482 View (02) 8074 5482
Photo of Patrick Watts, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Patrick Watts
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Patrick works with adults experiencing a diverse range of issues, including low mood and depression, along with anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety, OCD, social anxiety and phobias.
Patrick has experience in the university sector, private practice, and in public health. He has a warm, empathic approach, through which he utilises a range of therapeutic modalities tailored to the specific needs of his clients. These include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-integrated therapies.
Patrick works with adults experiencing a diverse range of issues, including low mood and depression, along with anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety, OCD, social anxiety and phobias.
Patrick has experience in the university sector, private practice, and in public health. He has a warm, empathic approach, through which he utilises a range of therapeutic modalities tailored to the specific needs of his clients. These include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-integrated therapies.
(02) 9100 0206 View (02) 9100 0206
Photo of Malak Shakhtour, Social Worker, AMHSW
Malak Shakhtour
Social Worker, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you're feeling lost, defeated, trying to navigate difficult emotions, I am here to help support you through your next life chapter. I am an accredited mental health social worker with experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. It can be incredibly difficult to change ongoing negative patterns of behaviour, I work on increasing your awareness of these behaviours and responses, whilst giving you coping skills to change old patterns. Whether your goal is to learn to cope with difficult emotions, understanding your psyche or looking to get "unstuck", we can work together to improve the next phase of your life.
If you're feeling lost, defeated, trying to navigate difficult emotions, I am here to help support you through your next life chapter. I am an accredited mental health social worker with experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. It can be incredibly difficult to change ongoing negative patterns of behaviour, I work on increasing your awareness of these behaviours and responses, whilst giving you coping skills to change old patterns. Whether your goal is to learn to cope with difficult emotions, understanding your psyche or looking to get "unstuck", we can work together to improve the next phase of your life.
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Photo of Anthony Arpino - Anthony Arpino (Proud Place Therapy), Counsellor, ACA-L2
Anthony Arpino (Proud Place Therapy)
Counsellor, ACA-L2
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I identify with both of these communities myself and can help with stress, anxiety (including panic attacks) & depression management, relationship challenges, identity issues (including sexual orientation and gender identity), confidence and self-esteem, big life transitions and changes.
I strive to create a safe and inclusive space where individuals can explore their unique identities and experiences, offering a sense of pride and empowerment. My goal is to create a collaborative and relaxed therapeutic environment that supports individuals to develop resilience, self-awareness, and self-acceptance, and make positive change in their lives.
I identify with both of these communities myself and can help with stress, anxiety (including panic attacks) & depression management, relationship challenges, identity issues (including sexual orientation and gender identity), confidence and self-esteem, big life transitions and changes.
I strive to create a safe and inclusive space where individuals can explore their unique identities and experiences, offering a sense of pride and empowerment. My goal is to create a collaborative and relaxed therapeutic environment that supports individuals to develop resilience, self-awareness, and self-acceptance, and make positive change in their lives.
(02) 9100 0554 View (02) 9100 0554
Photo of Mackie Demirel, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Mackie Demirel
Counsellor, ACA-L2
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Everyone is on a unique journey. If you're experiencing obstacles along your path, it simply means that some growth needs to be explored, and one size does not fit all. You do not need to be 'fixed' you just need to be guided truthfully. My services are tailored to meet your individual needs, incorporating evidence-based approaches, my own lived experiences and schools of thought from philosophy, spirituality and science. I am passionate and committed to providing you with a holistic and creative focus on your therapy journey.
Everyone is on a unique journey. If you're experiencing obstacles along your path, it simply means that some growth needs to be explored, and one size does not fit all. You do not need to be 'fixed' you just need to be guided truthfully. My services are tailored to meet your individual needs, incorporating evidence-based approaches, my own lived experiences and schools of thought from philosophy, spirituality and science. I am passionate and committed to providing you with a holistic and creative focus on your therapy journey.
(02) 9100 0465 View (02) 9100 0465
Photo of Katie Summerfield - Heart Of Play Therapy Katie Summerfield
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
Photo of Patrick Bryant, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Patrick Bryant
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Petersham, NSW 2049
We have two ears and one mouth so that we can listen twice as much as we speak. (Epictetus). Throughout my training to become a psychologist, I observed an emphasis that was placed on skills such as clinical knowledge, research, and critical thinking. Through my journey practicing as a psychologist, I have come to see that while such skills are crucial in being able to provide care and support to others, they lose some of their value without the ability to listen and show the patience that people deserve.
We have two ears and one mouth so that we can listen twice as much as we speak. (Epictetus). Throughout my training to become a psychologist, I observed an emphasis that was placed on skills such as clinical knowledge, research, and critical thinking. Through my journey practicing as a psychologist, I have come to see that while such skills are crucial in being able to provide care and support to others, they lose some of their value without the ability to listen and show the patience that people deserve.
(02) 9100 0059 View (02) 9100 0059
Photo of Stuart Lokhee, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Stuart Lokhee
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Petersham, NSW 2049
Often, they have spent years managing pressure quietly; work, partners or as fathers, before reaching a point where stress, anxiety, burnout, anger, sleep problems, trauma, or emotional exhaustion begin affecting daily life.
My clinical experience spans private practice (adult and paediatric clinics), Headspace, and NSW Health. With over 25 years as a COP, I understand operational stress, workplace culture, and internal investigations. As a prior teacher, I understand kids, and I provide evidence-based therapy tailored to each client’s needs, including EMDR, CBT, ACT, and DBT.
Often, they have spent years managing pressure quietly; work, partners or as fathers, before reaching a point where stress, anxiety, burnout, anger, sleep problems, trauma, or emotional exhaustion begin affecting daily life.
My clinical experience spans private practice (adult and paediatric clinics), Headspace, and NSW Health. With over 25 years as a COP, I understand operational stress, workplace culture, and internal investigations. As a prior teacher, I understand kids, and I provide evidence-based therapy tailored to each client’s needs, including EMDR, CBT, ACT, and DBT.
0452 472 764 View 0452 472 764
Photo of Val Coelho, Counsellor, ACA-L3
Val Coelho
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Petersham, NSW 2049
Many people come to counselling feeling stuck in survival mode. They are overwhelmed, constantly overthinking, emotionally reactive, or caught in the same relationship patterns they promised themselves they would not repeat. I work with people who are tired of analysing everything and still feeling the same. In our work together, we slow things down so you can understand what is driving your reactions, regulate your emotions, and respond differently with more clarity, control, and self-trust.
Many people come to counselling feeling stuck in survival mode. They are overwhelmed, constantly overthinking, emotionally reactive, or caught in the same relationship patterns they promised themselves they would not repeat. I work with people who are tired of analysing everything and still feeling the same. In our work together, we slow things down so you can understand what is driving your reactions, regulate your emotions, and respond differently with more clarity, control, and self-trust.
(02) 9100 0941 View (02) 9100 0941
Anxiety Therapists
When should I seek treatment for anxiety?
Everyone feels anxious at times, but when anxiety causes disruption to your daily life, it may be time to seek help. Such disruption can be mental, physical, or both: having fear dominate your thoughts, avoiding situations or objects that bring on feelings of anxiety, or experiencing shortness of breath, sweating, dizziness, or panic attacks. When these symptoms are recurrent and distressing, it may be time to talk to someone.

What are the most common types of treatment for anxiety?
Talk therapy, particularly cognitive behavioural therapy, is the most common treatment for anxiety. Studies have shown it is equally effective as medication. Other forms of therapy are popular, depending on a patient’s experience. Exposure therapy, for instance, can be useful for people dealing with fears and phobias, or who have experienced traumatic events. Dialectical Behavioural Therapy may be useful for patients who need help with emotion regulation. Anxiolytic medications, like benzodiazepines, can also help with calming a person enough to focus on the skills they’ve learned, and physical exercise has been shown to help symptoms of anxiety across the board.

How long does therapy for anxiety take to work?
The amount of time needed to alleviate symptoms depends on the severity of a person’s condition. Some therapies may take 5-20 weekly sessions to show results. Anti-depressant medications typically take two to four weeks before a benefit is felt. Anti-anxiety medications are felt typically within 20-30 minutes. Medications are best used to offer a patient a better headspace in which to work on techniques learned in therapy. Exercise, improved sleep habits, and meditation are effective, but takes weeks or months to show results.

How effective is treatment for anxiety?
Treatment for anxiety has been shown to be moderately to highly effective, according to a large body of psychology studies and analyses. For some people, treatment using CBT or exposure therapy alone is effective. Others respond best to a combination of medication and therapy.