Domestic Abuse Psychologists and Therapists in Petersham, NSW

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
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 Cassandra Mallos, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Cassandra Mallos
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
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
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 Erin Stuart, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Erin Stuart
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have a particular interest in supporting those with experiences of domestic, family and sexual violence including child sexual abuse.
I am a trauma‑informed counsellor working from a relational and feminist perspective. My integrative approach draws on somatic (body‑based) practices, emotion‑focused therapy, parts work, attachment theory, mindfulness and spiritual practices.
I have a particular interest in supporting those with experiences of domestic, family and sexual violence including child sexual abuse.
I am a trauma‑informed counsellor working from a relational and feminist perspective. My integrative approach draws on somatic (body‑based) practices, emotion‑focused therapy, parts work, attachment theory, mindfulness and spiritual practices.
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Photo of Charlotte Ritchie - Charlotte Ritchie Counselling and Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Charlotte Ritchie Counselling and Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
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 am trained to help people with crisis and trauma in a number of ways. EMDR works to reconnect the two brain hemispheres, providing a new way to process memories that were intrusive or holding them back in some way. I also have training in various psychological modalities (DBT, IFS, Gestalt, for example) but feel this is just therapist babble!
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 am trained to help people with crisis and trauma in a number of ways. EMDR works to reconnect the two brain hemispheres, providing a new way to process memories that were intrusive or holding them back in some way. I also have training in various psychological modalities (DBT, IFS, Gestalt, for example) but feel this is just therapist babble!
(02) 9100 0566 View (02) 9100 0566
Photo of Tanuja Sahoo - Unlock The Mind Counselling Services, Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Unlock The Mind Counselling Services
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
She is skilled in Trauma, Domestic violence and suicide prevention, drawing from different therapeutic modalities.
Tanuja applies Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Person-Centred Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, and mindfulness techniques to help the person overcome their challenges and use a strength-based approach to build positivity in themselves.
She is skilled in Trauma, Domestic violence and suicide prevention, drawing from different therapeutic modalities.
Tanuja applies Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Person-Centred Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, and mindfulness techniques to help the person overcome their challenges and use a strength-based approach to build positivity in themselves.
(02) 8105 5488 View (02) 8105 5488
Photo of Tegan Webb, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Tegan Webb
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Currently unable to accept new referrals - several months wait time. I provide psychological intervention to adults and adolescents, with a focus on developing insight into your current life difficulties (eg anxiety, depression, issues connecting with people), considering how you would like your life to be, and beginning to take actions toward that desired life. I utilise Schema Therapy, with elements from a range of other therapy models (eg ACT, IPT, DBT, CBT) where needed, particularly when assisting people to develop new skills.
Currently unable to accept new referrals - several months wait time. I provide psychological intervention to adults and adolescents, with a focus on developing insight into your current life difficulties (eg anxiety, depression, issues connecting with people), considering how you would like your life to be, and beginning to take actions toward that desired life. I utilise Schema Therapy, with elements from a range of other therapy models (eg ACT, IPT, DBT, CBT) where needed, particularly when assisting people to develop new skills.
(02) 8503 8260 View (02) 8503 8260

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Elizabeth Lee - Elizabeth Counselling Clinic Pty Ltd, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Elizabeth Counselling Clinic Pty Ltd
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
West Ryde, NSW 2114
Elizabeth is warm and non-judgmental in her practice. Elizabeth has about 15 years of counselling experience and has worked for both NGOs (Non-profit organizations) and governments to learn to treat people with different issues. Elizabeth also works as a clinical supervisor and has a passion to raise the next generation of therapists. Elizabeth is involved in different community boards to raise more awareness on some of the common mental health topics.
Elizabeth is warm and non-judgmental in her practice. Elizabeth has about 15 years of counselling experience and has worked for both NGOs (Non-profit organizations) and governments to learn to treat people with different issues. Elizabeth also works as a clinical supervisor and has a passion to raise the next generation of therapists. Elizabeth is involved in different community boards to raise more awareness on some of the common mental health topics.
(02) 8074 3828 View (02) 8074 3828
Photo of Bj Murray - Central Coast Trauma Centre, Counsellor, PACFA
Central Coast Trauma Centre
Counsellor, PACFA
Serves Area
I specialize in Trauma Processing and this is where i find that the most positive outcomes are from. I love to talk to people and hear their story then we work out together what is the core beliefs and where that this might come from. Then we work on processing any trauma from childhood or other parts of life. This impacts greatly on the story that you tell yourself and the patterns of behavior that you want to change. I don't want people to be sitting talking to me for years with no breakthrough or change in behavior. I want you to be living your life to the fullest with maximum joy!
I specialize in Trauma Processing and this is where i find that the most positive outcomes are from. I love to talk to people and hear their story then we work out together what is the core beliefs and where that this might come from. Then we work on processing any trauma from childhood or other parts of life. This impacts greatly on the story that you tell yourself and the patterns of behavior that you want to change. I don't want people to be sitting talking to me for years with no breakthrough or change in behavior. I want you to be living your life to the fullest with maximum joy!
(02) 4307 5555 View (02) 4307 5555
Photo of Audrey Margaret Sarmiento - Enrei Counselling, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Enrei Counselling
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, trauma, grief or identity struggles? You don’t have to face it alone. I’m Audrey, the counsellor behind Enrei Counselling, providing trauma-informed, culturally sensitive support to adults across Australia. Together, we’ll create a safe, compassionate space to gently explore your emotions and attachment experiences. Through deepening emotional awareness, we’ll heal relational wounds, strengthen your connections, and build emotional resilience. You can expect greater emotional insight, healing from past hurts, practical tools for managing anxiety and grief, and support that honours your identity.
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, trauma, grief or identity struggles? You don’t have to face it alone. I’m Audrey, the counsellor behind Enrei Counselling, providing trauma-informed, culturally sensitive support to adults across Australia. Together, we’ll create a safe, compassionate space to gently explore your emotions and attachment experiences. Through deepening emotional awareness, we’ll heal relational wounds, strengthen your connections, and build emotional resilience. You can expect greater emotional insight, healing from past hurts, practical tools for managing anxiety and grief, and support that honours your identity.
(02) 5133 6270 View (02) 5133 6270
Photo of Geneviève Dekell, Counsellor, PACFA
Geneviève Dekell
Counsellor, PACFA
Randwick, NSW 2031
Therapy is a great place to learn more about yourself and how your experiences have shaped that. I believe in a holistic approach to therapy that acknowledges the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, social, and physical wellbeing and use a non-pathologising, accepting approach. I see the problem as the problem, not the person. By creating distance between yourself and the challenges you face, we can engage in collaborative, respectful, and non-blaming conversations to foster an environment of empathy and understanding. I use somatic enquiry and techniques to recognise and process your body’s inner sensations: Interoception.
Therapy is a great place to learn more about yourself and how your experiences have shaped that. I believe in a holistic approach to therapy that acknowledges the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, social, and physical wellbeing and use a non-pathologising, accepting approach. I see the problem as the problem, not the person. By creating distance between yourself and the challenges you face, we can engage in collaborative, respectful, and non-blaming conversations to foster an environment of empathy and understanding. I use somatic enquiry and techniques to recognise and process your body’s inner sensations: Interoception.
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Photo of Srividya (Sri) Ravichandran - SoulShine Counselling, Counsellor, ACA-L2
SoulShine Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I support individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, complex trauma, relationship changes, family violence, stress, parenting challenges, and life transitions.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming, and it can be difficult to carry everything on your own. Having a space where you feel heard and understood can make a meaningful difference. I’m Sri, an ACA Level 2 registered counsellor and founder of SoulShine Counselling. I offer a supportive space to explore what you are going through at a pace that feels right for you. My approach is trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming, and grounded in respect, empathy, and collaboration. I provide counselling primarily in English, and can also offer sessions in Tamil, Kannada, and Hindi. Please reach out if you would like to explore counselling.
I support individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, complex trauma, relationship changes, family violence, stress, parenting challenges, and life transitions.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming, and it can be difficult to carry everything on your own. Having a space where you feel heard and understood can make a meaningful difference. I’m Sri, an ACA Level 2 registered counsellor and founder of SoulShine Counselling. I offer a supportive space to explore what you are going through at a pace that feels right for you. My approach is trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming, and grounded in respect, empathy, and collaboration. I provide counselling primarily in English, and can also offer sessions in Tamil, Kannada, and Hindi. Please reach out if you would like to explore counselling.
(03) 8771 4425 View (03) 8771 4425
Photo of Sophie Rachel De Vries - Sydney Hills Counselling, Counsellor, PACFA
Sydney Hills Counselling
Counsellor, PACFA
Castle Hill, NSW 2154
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor specialising in Trauma, Domestic and Family Violence (I am an Approved Counsellor with Victims Services NSW), Sexual Assault, Grief and Loss, Relationship Issues, Anxiety, Depression, LGBTQIA+ issues, Parenting Issues, and Infertility Issues, and a registered provider with the NDIS.
I offer effective and compassionate counselling to support people with issues including: • Trauma • Childhood Trauma • Grief/Loss • LGBTQ+ • PTSD • Family Relationships • Self-Esteem • Relationship Breakdown issues • Divorce and Separation issues • Abusive Relationship issues •Stress Management • Infertility issues • Parenting Issues • Anxiety • Depression
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor specialising in Trauma, Domestic and Family Violence (I am an Approved Counsellor with Victims Services NSW), Sexual Assault, Grief and Loss, Relationship Issues, Anxiety, Depression, LGBTQIA+ issues, Parenting Issues, and Infertility Issues, and a registered provider with the NDIS.
I offer effective and compassionate counselling to support people with issues including: • Trauma • Childhood Trauma • Grief/Loss • LGBTQ+ • PTSD • Family Relationships • Self-Esteem • Relationship Breakdown issues • Divorce and Separation issues • Abusive Relationship issues •Stress Management • Infertility issues • Parenting Issues • Anxiety • Depression
(02) 9159 6277 View (02) 9159 6277
Photo of Patricia Lewis, Psychotherapist, PsychD, ACA-L4
Patricia Lewis
Psychotherapist, PsychD, ACA-L4
Online Only
Are you broken-hearted? Find hope and healing as you learn to love yourself again. Has trauma visited your life? Reclaim your life from the effects of hurt and pain and rediscover your hopes and dreams for a hope-filled future.
Are you broken-hearted? Find hope and healing as you learn to love yourself again. Has trauma visited your life? Reclaim your life from the effects of hurt and pain and rediscover your hopes and dreams for a hope-filled future.
(02) 9100 0165 View (02) 9100 0165
Photo of Valentina Cerutti - Valentina Cerutti Counselling, Counsellor, PACFA
Valentina Cerutti Counselling
Counsellor, PACFA
Leichhardt, NSW 2040
Waitlist for new clients
Specialized in domestic and family violence.
Are you struggling with issues like anxiety, self-esteem, trauma history, identity, relationships, communication or grief? I can help you to navigate through your own journey in order to find your personal solutions and promote change.
Specialized in domestic and family violence.
Are you struggling with issues like anxiety, self-esteem, trauma history, identity, relationships, communication or grief? I can help you to navigate through your own journey in order to find your personal solutions and promote change.
(02) 8000 0087 View (02) 8000 0087
Photo of Janette Whitfield - Prime Counselling Services, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Prime Counselling Services
Counsellor, ACA-L2
St Leonards, NSW 2065
I support individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship challenges, including those affected by domestic violence, narcissistic abuse, and borderline personality disorder (BPD).
I am a qualified counsellor who combines professional training with lived experience to support individuals to move from feeling overwhelmed or defined by past experiences toward empowerment and self-understanding. I offer a compassionate, non-judgemental space where clients feel heard, respected, and supported. My approach focuses on helping people reconnect with their sense of self, build confidence, strengthen boundaries, and develop healthier ways of coping and relating. I work respectfully with people of all faiths and backgrounds, and as a Christian, I also offer Christian counselling on request.
I support individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship challenges, including those affected by domestic violence, narcissistic abuse, and borderline personality disorder (BPD).
I am a qualified counsellor who combines professional training with lived experience to support individuals to move from feeling overwhelmed or defined by past experiences toward empowerment and self-understanding. I offer a compassionate, non-judgemental space where clients feel heard, respected, and supported. My approach focuses on helping people reconnect with their sense of self, build confidence, strengthen boundaries, and develop healthier ways of coping and relating. I work respectfully with people of all faiths and backgrounds, and as a Christian, I also offer Christian counselling on request.
(07) 2801 6670 View (07) 2801 6670
Photo of Teresa Mars, Counsellor, PACFA
Teresa Mars
Counsellor, PACFA
Bondi Junction, NSW 2022
My ideal client is curious, open-minded, non-judgemental and willing to explore and learn about themselves in collaboration with me. The therapeutic experience arising from the counselling relationship can be immeasurable and everlasting. The journey is a shared experience where two minds work together to remind you of your strengths. As your therapist, it is my privilege to work with you towards addressing issues which are causing problems, finding tools and solutions to help with the aim of you feeling empowered to manage and move forward independently. I want my clients to feel that they have a solid ability to cope with life.
My ideal client is curious, open-minded, non-judgemental and willing to explore and learn about themselves in collaboration with me. The therapeutic experience arising from the counselling relationship can be immeasurable and everlasting. The journey is a shared experience where two minds work together to remind you of your strengths. As your therapist, it is my privilege to work with you towards addressing issues which are causing problems, finding tools and solutions to help with the aim of you feeling empowered to manage and move forward independently. I want my clients to feel that they have a solid ability to cope with life.
(02) 9100 0470 View (02) 9100 0470
Photo of Sarah Milan - Clearing Clouds Counselling, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Clearing Clouds Counselling
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Hornsby, NSW 2077
If you feel stressed and unsure how to get your life to be enjoyable again, I can help you re-set, increase your self esteem and think clearly again. I have successfully worked with many clients who have been in extremely difficult emotional and practical situations where we worked together to unlock their freedom and growth towards increased quality of life and empowerment. I have reached the highest level of clinical expertise for a counsellor with a Master of Counselling and the highest acceditation level: Registered Clinical Counsellor (PACFA)
If you feel stressed and unsure how to get your life to be enjoyable again, I can help you re-set, increase your self esteem and think clearly again. I have successfully worked with many clients who have been in extremely difficult emotional and practical situations where we worked together to unlock their freedom and growth towards increased quality of life and empowerment. I have reached the highest level of clinical expertise for a counsellor with a Master of Counselling and the highest acceditation level: Registered Clinical Counsellor (PACFA)
(02) 8403 2265 View (02) 8403 2265
Photo of Jania Nouri, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Jania Nouri
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Online Only
At the heart of my counselling practice is my capacity for deep listening, compassion, empathy, and developing a trusting therapeutic relationship. I am mindful that people lead busy lives and are investing time and money into counselling. Therefore, my aim is to provide impactful counselling that will enable you to achieve what you need, in the minimum number of sessions. I work with individual clients from diverse backgrounds whose emotional, psychological, or behavioural functioning is impacted by life circumstances.
At the heart of my counselling practice is my capacity for deep listening, compassion, empathy, and developing a trusting therapeutic relationship. I am mindful that people lead busy lives and are investing time and money into counselling. Therefore, my aim is to provide impactful counselling that will enable you to achieve what you need, in the minimum number of sessions. I work with individual clients from diverse backgrounds whose emotional, psychological, or behavioural functioning is impacted by life circumstances.
(02) 9100 0578 View (02) 9100 0578
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.