Body Image Psychologists and Therapists in Petersham, NSW

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. He can also assist with adjustment and moving forward following difficult life events. He strives to bring a warm, compassionate and genuine approach to therapy, and building a supportive relationship is at the heart of his work. His experience means he is well-equipped to support those moving through the challenges of life whilst seeking to build meaning and purpose along the way.
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. He can also assist with adjustment and moving forward following difficult life events. He strives to bring a warm, compassionate and genuine approach to therapy, and building a supportive relationship is at the heart of his work. His experience means he is well-equipped to support those moving through the challenges of life whilst seeking to build meaning and purpose along the way.
(02) 9100 0206 View (02) 9100 0206
Photo of Anne-Marie Taylor - Anne-Marie Taylor - Seen Felt Heard Counselling, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Anne-Marie Taylor - Seen Felt Heard Counselling
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Serves Area
Feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or disconnected from yourself? Life’s pressures, past experiences, and ongoing responsibilities can make it hard to slow down and feel grounded. Counselling offers a supportive space to pause, reflect, and reconnect. I’m Anne-Marie, a Marrickville-based counsellor and clinical supervisor, offering trauma-informed counselling to adults and parents across the Inner West and greater Sydney. My approach is holistic, inclusive, and deeply personal, recognising the strong connection between mind and body. I offer a warm, safe, and non-judgemental space where you can show up exactly as you are.
Feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or disconnected from yourself? Life’s pressures, past experiences, and ongoing responsibilities can make it hard to slow down and feel grounded. Counselling offers a supportive space to pause, reflect, and reconnect. I’m Anne-Marie, a Marrickville-based counsellor and clinical supervisor, offering trauma-informed counselling to adults and parents across the Inner West and greater Sydney. My approach is holistic, inclusive, and deeply personal, recognising the strong connection between mind and body. I offer a warm, safe, and non-judgemental space where you can show up exactly as you are.
(02) 9100 0780 View (02) 9100 0780
Photo of Ann-Maree Whelan, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Ann-Maree Whelan
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Ann-Maree is a warm and experienced psychologist, who works from a strengths-based and trauma-informed perspective. She works collaboratively with clients using a wide range of evidence-based treatment approaches tailored to their individual needs. She creates a safe, non-judgemental and supportive therapeutic space where individuals can develop insight and create meaningful change in their lives and relationships. Ann-Maree has been registered since 2009, and has extensive experience in working with clients through life experiences such as neurodiversity, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, trauma, grief and loss.
Ann-Maree is a warm and experienced psychologist, who works from a strengths-based and trauma-informed perspective. She works collaboratively with clients using a wide range of evidence-based treatment approaches tailored to their individual needs. She creates a safe, non-judgemental and supportive therapeutic space where individuals can develop insight and create meaningful change in their lives and relationships. Ann-Maree has been registered since 2009, and has extensive experience in working with clients through life experiences such as neurodiversity, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, trauma, grief and loss.
(02) 9158 6228 View (02) 9158 6228
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 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 hope to bring a warm, empathic and authentic approach to the issues that people bring to therapy. I recognise the investment that people make when they share their difficulties with someone and commit to therapy, and work to honour that commitment by delivering evidence based treatments, that are tailored to a persons needs. I’ve benefitted greatly from the experience of working across a range of inpatient and outpatient hospital settings.
I am a clinical psychologist who works across a variety of presentations including anxiety and mood disorders. I hope to bring a warm, empathic and authentic approach to the issues that people bring to therapy. I recognise the investment that people make when they share their difficulties with someone and commit to therapy, and work to honour that commitment by delivering evidence based treatments, that are tailored to a persons needs. I’ve benefitted greatly from the experience of working across a range of inpatient and outpatient hospital settings.
(02) 8074 5482 View (02) 8074 5482
Photo of Marie Mooney, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Marie Mooney
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
I honour the innate wisdom in all of us, and hold deep respect and compassion for people. My aim is to provide a safe, compassionate and healing space, where you can talk about, explore and find solutions to what's really happening in your life and whatever brings you to counselling. I will support you to create a healthy relationship and connection with yourself and others, and will walk with you, as you overcome the obstacles, and celebrate the steps you take towards living more of the life you desire.
I honour the innate wisdom in all of us, and hold deep respect and compassion for people. My aim is to provide a safe, compassionate and healing space, where you can talk about, explore and find solutions to what's really happening in your life and whatever brings you to counselling. I will support you to create a healthy relationship and connection with yourself and others, and will walk with you, as you overcome the obstacles, and celebrate the steps you take towards living more of the life you desire.
(02) 8105 5005 View (02) 8105 5005
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 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.
View
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 Sam Felicity Baran - Sam Baran (Inner Orbit Therapy), Psychotherapist, PACFA
Sam Baran (Inner Orbit Therapy)
Psychotherapist, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi! I'm Sam (they/them), a queer non-binary therapist. I offer a judgement-free and affirming space for curious and creative people, including those from the neurodiverse, transgender, and LGBTQ+ communities. Together, we can look at hard stuff around relationships, identity, stress, anxiety, and existence with a view of boosting self-esteem and reducing distress. We’ll puzzle out the unique bits that sit at your core and use that understanding to create positive changes in your life and your relationships. My focus is always around making therapy a safe, supportive place where you can embrace and express your authentic self.
Hi! I'm Sam (they/them), a queer non-binary therapist. I offer a judgement-free and affirming space for curious and creative people, including those from the neurodiverse, transgender, and LGBTQ+ communities. Together, we can look at hard stuff around relationships, identity, stress, anxiety, and existence with a view of boosting self-esteem and reducing distress. We’ll puzzle out the unique bits that sit at your core and use that understanding to create positive changes in your life and your relationships. My focus is always around making therapy a safe, supportive place where you can embrace and express your authentic self.
(02) 8000 1501 View (02) 8000 1501
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 provide therapeutic support to individuals (aged 16+) from the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent (Autism, ADHD, Tourette Syndrome, etc.) communities in the Sydney area (in-person/online) and Australia-wide (online only). 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 provide therapeutic support to individuals (aged 16+) from the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent (Autism, ADHD, Tourette Syndrome, etc.) communities in the Sydney area (in-person/online) and Australia-wide (online only). 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.
(02) 9100 0554 View (02) 9100 0554
Photo of Justine Pash, Counsellor, PACFA
Justine Pash
Counsellor, PACFA
Petersham, NSW 2049
Not accepting new clients
Life's for sure a roller coaster. Along with the ups, there will naturally be downs - illness, pain, worry, conflict, transitions and loss. Sometimes we hang on for the ride and know who will be in the seat beside us; at other times, we can feel pummelled, adrift or alone in our experience. Being heard, seen and validated can begin a process of deep understanding and change. I am a degree-qualified Therapist and eating disorder clinician who feels passionate about providing ethical, evidence-based support to all clients, no matter their concern. You might like to see me in my CBD or Petersham rooms.
Life's for sure a roller coaster. Along with the ups, there will naturally be downs - illness, pain, worry, conflict, transitions and loss. Sometimes we hang on for the ride and know who will be in the seat beside us; at other times, we can feel pummelled, adrift or alone in our experience. Being heard, seen and validated can begin a process of deep understanding and change. I am a degree-qualified Therapist and eating disorder clinician who feels passionate about providing ethical, evidence-based support to all clients, no matter their concern. You might like to see me in my CBD or Petersham rooms.
(02) 9100 0552 View (02) 9100 0552
Photo of Arlyn Owens
Arlyn Owens
Verified Verified
Petersham, NSW 2049
Not accepting new clients
I’m a Psychosexual Therapist & Educator, Gestalt Therapist and Registered Nurse. I’ve been a practicing Therapist since 2019, with over 10yrs experience in the health system. I see individuals, couples & polycules for counselling & education around sexuality & relationships, and general mental health.
I’m a Psychosexual Therapist & Educator, Gestalt Therapist and Registered Nurse. I’ve been a practicing Therapist since 2019, with over 10yrs experience in the health system. I see individuals, couples & polycules for counselling & education around sexuality & relationships, and general mental health.
View

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Marlee Greer, Counsellor, PACFA
Marlee Greer
Counsellor, PACFA
Online Only
I'm Marlee (she/they) and I provide online therapy across Australia for women, trans, and non-binary adults who are queer or questioning, neurodivergent, and ready to make sense of their burnout, identity, and relationships. It's important for you to know that you are not broken. Becoming clearer on who you actually are can feel disorienting, lonely, and exhausting. My job isn't to give you more coping skills or track symptoms. It's to help you connect with who you are and clear the barriers that got in the way.
I'm Marlee (she/they) and I provide online therapy across Australia for women, trans, and non-binary adults who are queer or questioning, neurodivergent, and ready to make sense of their burnout, identity, and relationships. It's important for you to know that you are not broken. Becoming clearer on who you actually are can feel disorienting, lonely, and exhausting. My job isn't to give you more coping skills or track symptoms. It's to help you connect with who you are and clear the barriers that got in the way.
(03) 7037 6955 View (03) 7037 6955
Photo of Jessica Connell, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Jessica Connell
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
My goal is to make the assessment process accessible, clear, respectful, and genuinely supportive from start to finish conducted from the comfort of your own home. I'm a senior psychologist, with over 17 years of experience working in the mental health field. I'm passionate about helping adults gain clarity and self-understanding through comprehensive, evidence-based assessment. My approach is neuro-affirming, collaborative, and strengths-focused, ensuring clients feel heard, valued, and empowered throughout the process. You’ll find a space that celebrates difference and promotes understanding—not labels or judgement
My goal is to make the assessment process accessible, clear, respectful, and genuinely supportive from start to finish conducted from the comfort of your own home. I'm a senior psychologist, with over 17 years of experience working in the mental health field. I'm passionate about helping adults gain clarity and self-understanding through comprehensive, evidence-based assessment. My approach is neuro-affirming, collaborative, and strengths-focused, ensuring clients feel heard, valued, and empowered throughout the process. You’ll find a space that celebrates difference and promotes understanding—not labels or judgement
View
Photo of Niamh Connellan, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Niamh Connellan
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I provide specialised counselling support to people with diverse experiences, including neurodivergence, gender, race, sexuality, disability, and fatness. My work centres anti-oppressive practices and values. I prioritise lived experience values and draw on my own journey and the journeys of others in my work.
I provide specialised counselling support to people with diverse experiences, including neurodivergence, gender, race, sexuality, disability, and fatness. My work centres anti-oppressive practices and values. I prioritise lived experience values and draw on my own journey and the journeys of others in my work.
(03) 9626 9520 View (03) 9626 9520
Photo of Amy Harper, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Amy Harper
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Bondi Junction, NSW 2022
Some areas I often work around are addressing mood changes, life transitions, building confidence and self-compassion, health, dis/ability, mental health, diverse bodies, body image concerns, trauma and experiences of abuse and violence, homelessness, navigating faith and cultural identity, and questioning and affirming sexuality or gender.
Hello, I'm Amy (they/them). I'm a registered Psychologist, and for the past 14 years have been counselling in community organisations with teens and adults. At the heart of my practice is providing trauma informed and affirming care to LGBTIQA+ people, their families and caregivers. My work is underpinned by ethics of social justice and advocacy, and takes into account how our lives are influenced by our context and experiences. I utilise ACT, DBT, CBT, Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness and Somatic Approaches amongst others to provide an integrative and individualised approach.
Some areas I often work around are addressing mood changes, life transitions, building confidence and self-compassion, health, dis/ability, mental health, diverse bodies, body image concerns, trauma and experiences of abuse and violence, homelessness, navigating faith and cultural identity, and questioning and affirming sexuality or gender.
Hello, I'm Amy (they/them). I'm a registered Psychologist, and for the past 14 years have been counselling in community organisations with teens and adults. At the heart of my practice is providing trauma informed and affirming care to LGBTIQA+ people, their families and caregivers. My work is underpinned by ethics of social justice and advocacy, and takes into account how our lives are influenced by our context and experiences. I utilise ACT, DBT, CBT, Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness and Somatic Approaches amongst others to provide an integrative and individualised approach.
(02) 9100 0548 View (02) 9100 0548
Photo of Caroline Spiers, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Caroline Spiers
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Serves Area
Are you struggling with your life and feel you might have unresolved issues, trauma, relationship or neurodiversity challenges or managing family dynamics/adoptee/grief and loss, bereavement or cultural issues? LGBTQIA+ needs that aren’t being seen or understood? Effective therapy will allow you space to talk and be heard and validated, guide you at your own pace on your journey and provide safety and non judgement to explore what can be achieved. This is the foundation of my practice - always from a trauma informed perspective.
Are you struggling with your life and feel you might have unresolved issues, trauma, relationship or neurodiversity challenges or managing family dynamics/adoptee/grief and loss, bereavement or cultural issues? LGBTQIA+ needs that aren’t being seen or understood? Effective therapy will allow you space to talk and be heard and validated, guide you at your own pace on your journey and provide safety and non judgement to explore what can be achieved. This is the foundation of my practice - always from a trauma informed perspective.
(03) 7003 2855 View (03) 7003 2855
Photo of Perri Carlson-Hawke, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Perri Carlson-Hawke
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I am a skilled and experienced clinical psychologist, committed to providing compassionate and effective care. I have developed a reputation as a warm, empathetic, and trustworthy psychologist who is able to connect with her clients on a deep level. I have helped countless individuals overcome a wide range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, and disordered eating.
I am a skilled and experienced clinical psychologist, committed to providing compassionate and effective care. I have developed a reputation as a warm, empathetic, and trustworthy psychologist who is able to connect with her clients on a deep level. I have helped countless individuals overcome a wide range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, and disordered eating.
View
Photo of Sam Forbes, Social Worker, AASW
Sam Forbes
Social Worker, AASW
Sydney, NSW 2000
What do you want to change in your life? Counselling can help. I've been a therapist for 33 years and I support people to make significant changes in their lives and relationships. There's nothing you can't overcome. I specialise in complex trauma and relationship counselling, and I work with people affected by trauma, child abuse & sexual or domestic violence, mental health issues, racism, disability, bullying, critical incidences, crime, grief and bereavement, including for companion animals/pets. I'm queer and LGBTIQ, trans, NB, poly, ENM, sex work & kink/BDSM affirming. I am trained in EMDR & EMDR 2.0. ONLINE & In person.
What do you want to change in your life? Counselling can help. I've been a therapist for 33 years and I support people to make significant changes in their lives and relationships. There's nothing you can't overcome. I specialise in complex trauma and relationship counselling, and I work with people affected by trauma, child abuse & sexual or domestic violence, mental health issues, racism, disability, bullying, critical incidences, crime, grief and bereavement, including for companion animals/pets. I'm queer and LGBTIQ, trans, NB, poly, ENM, sex work & kink/BDSM affirming. I am trained in EMDR & EMDR 2.0. ONLINE & In person.
(02) 8074 5968 View (02) 8074 5968
Body Image Therapists
How does body image affect mental health?
Poor body image can influence mental health because it can reduce self-esteem and decrease functioning in other areas of one's life. Negative body image may hinder someone's ability to perform daily tasks, including professional and social responsibilities, because they may feel self-conscious or shame surrounding their appearance; a desire to change one's body as a result of negative body image can also trigger behaviors such as extreme dieting, excessive exercise, or obsessive social media comparison. Poor body image is associated with a number of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, although many people experience negative body image even in the absence of meeting the diagnostic criteria for any mental health disorders.

What does it mean to have a positive body image?
Body image refers to how one internally perceives their appearance and internally "talks" to themself about their body. Positive body image is therefore indicative of a positive perception of one's self and positive internal self-talk that underscores one's strengths. People who have good body image often have higher self-esteem, self-worth, and self-confidence, and they also often recognise how external factors, such as social media or relationship patterns, can influence body image. While body image can change at different life stages and in response to various triggers, practicing self-acceptance and a body-positive mindset can help maintain a more stable sense of positive body image.

Is body image the same as self-esteem?
Body image and self-esteem are often related, but they are distinct concepts. Self-esteem is a broader term that can be shaped by a number of factors outside of body image, including one's functioning at school or in the workplace; it refers to one's capacity to handle various life challenges. Poor body image can be one way in which one's self-esteem is reduced. Reduced self-esteem as a result of poor body image can cause individuals to feel negative about their appearance, withdraw from social interactions, and/or rely on harmful behaviours as a coping mechanism. A "body positive" approach to body image therapy is therefore often used to encourage a more positive view of one's self and thus encourage better self-esteem.

What type of therapy is best to foster a positive body image?
The type of therapy best suited to improve body image depends on each person, as there is not a single therapy specific to body image improvement. That said, many individuals with poor body image benefit from therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based therapy. CBT can be used to help challenge distorted or negative thoughts about one's body, while ACT and mindfulness practices can facilitate a more positive body image through self-acceptance and identification of one's personal strengths. Regardless of treatment type, clients should look for body image therapists who encourage the development of a sense of self outside of their external appearance and help clients reduce unwanted behaviours developed as a result of poor self-esteem, such as dieting or disordered eating patterns.