Self Esteem Psychologists and Therapists in Petersham, NSW

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
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 Roberta Iavarone, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Roberta Iavarone
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you struggling to navigate relationship difficulties/conflict with your partner, family member or work colleague? Perhaps you are struggling to navigate the pressures of a new job, life stage such as menopause or adult diagnosis of ADHD? 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? Hi I'm Roberta & I have a special interest in working with women & men in all stages of life & to help you build the life you want.
Are you struggling to navigate relationship difficulties/conflict with your partner, family member or work colleague? Perhaps you are struggling to navigate the pressures of a new job, life stage such as menopause or adult diagnosis of ADHD? 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? Hi I'm Roberta & I have a special interest in working with women & men in all stages of life & to help you build the life you want.
(02) 9100 0107 View (02) 9100 0107
Photo of Jane Rabie, Social Worker, AASW
Jane Rabie
Social Worker, AASW
1 Endorsed
Petersham, NSW 2049
This in turn supports your child’s self esteem, behaviours and relationships with others.
Often children don’t have words to describe their experiences and feelings and instead reveal them through behaviours which can be misunderstood. They may get into trouble, be labelled, or disconnect. I work with children and families just like this. As a carer, reaching out for support can be the hardest step. I work closely with you and your child through Play Therapy which is relationship based therapy for children aged 3-12 years. Play is a child’s natural way of communicating and Play Therapy creates the environment where the therapist enters into a child’s world and understands the experience from their perspective.
This in turn supports your child’s self esteem, behaviours and relationships with others.
Often children don’t have words to describe their experiences and feelings and instead reveal them through behaviours which can be misunderstood. They may get into trouble, be labelled, or disconnect. I work with children and families just like this. As a carer, reaching out for support can be the hardest step. I work closely with you and your child through Play Therapy which is relationship based therapy for children aged 3-12 years. Play is a child’s natural way of communicating and Play Therapy creates the environment where the therapist enters into a child’s world and understands the experience from their perspective.
(02) 9100 0607 View (02) 9100 0607
Photo of Fiona Boughton - Well Therapy - Fiona Boughton, Social Worker, AMHSW
Well Therapy - Fiona Boughton
Social Worker, AMHSW
Petersham, NSW 2049
I work with adults navigating complex challenges, including trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, chronic stress, and addiction. Many clients come to me feeling trapped in unhelpful cycles, overwhelmed, and unsure of how to move forward. My role is to provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space for collaboratively exploring these experiences. I support clients in understanding how past events shape their present, help them to process and heal, reconnect with their strengths, build healthier coping strategies and ultimately begin living a fulfilling, balanced, resilient, and empowered life that aligns with their values.
I work with adults navigating complex challenges, including trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, chronic stress, and addiction. Many clients come to me feeling trapped in unhelpful cycles, overwhelmed, and unsure of how to move forward. My role is to provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space for collaboratively exploring these experiences. I support clients in understanding how past events shape their present, help them to process and heal, reconnect with their strengths, build healthier coping strategies and ultimately begin living a fulfilling, balanced, resilient, and empowered life that aligns with their values.
0430 439 485 View 0430 439 485
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 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. I help people navigate role transitions in work, family or social life. I support the people I work with to understand their experiences and themselves, reduce shame and self reproach and help them to build self worth and confidence to move forward. I value bringing compassion, calm, humour and hope to each session.
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. I help people navigate role transitions in work, family or social life. I support the people I work with to understand their experiences and themselves, reduce shame and self reproach and help them to build self worth and confidence to move forward. I value bringing compassion, calm, humour and hope to each session.
(02) 9909 6136 View (02) 9909 6136
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 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 Sophia Charlotte Laurie, Counsellor
Sophia Charlotte Laurie
Counsellor
Online Only
I work with women experiencing social and generalised anxiety, depression, low mood, or a sense of feeling disconnected from themselves and the life they want to live. I support them to build self-trust, overcome challenges, and create a life that feels more aligned, meaningful, and fulfilling.
I work with women experiencing social and generalised anxiety, depression, low mood, or a sense of feeling disconnected from themselves and the life they want to live. I support them to build self-trust, overcome challenges, and create a life that feels more aligned, meaningful, and fulfilling.
0466 884 425 x61 View 0466 884 425 x61
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 Ange Martinez, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Ange Martinez
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Petersham, NSW 2049
Relationships are at the heart of wellbeing - yet even the closest couples can feel stuck, disconnected or overwhelmed. If you’re struggling with conflict, trust, communication or the distance growing between you, couples therapy can help you find your way back to each other. Alongside couples work, I also offer counselling for individuals, parents, families and children. My clients often come when life transitions, parenting stress or family dynamics feel overwhelming. I use a family systems lens to help people understand how their relationships, emotions and patterns are connected - and how small shifts can bring real change.
Relationships are at the heart of wellbeing - yet even the closest couples can feel stuck, disconnected or overwhelmed. If you’re struggling with conflict, trust, communication or the distance growing between you, couples therapy can help you find your way back to each other. Alongside couples work, I also offer counselling for individuals, parents, families and children. My clients often come when life transitions, parenting stress or family dynamics feel overwhelming. I use a family systems lens to help people understand how their relationships, emotions and patterns are connected - and how small shifts can bring real change.
(02) 9100 0167 View (02) 9100 0167
Photo of Lucas Steuerwald, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Lucas Steuerwald
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
When we're struggling with challenges arising from issues around mental health, we can often feel lonely, isolated, and we may experience a sense of hopelessness about the future. As a therapist, I'm here to support you in navigating these challenges. I offer a gentle, collaborative approach and work from a mix of different therapeutic styles. Through our therapy sessions, we'll aim to bring forth hope and change for you, and deeper connections with yourself and others. Session times are currently available, so please check in with me for a free chat.
When we're struggling with challenges arising from issues around mental health, we can often feel lonely, isolated, and we may experience a sense of hopelessness about the future. As a therapist, I'm here to support you in navigating these challenges. I offer a gentle, collaborative approach and work from a mix of different therapeutic styles. Through our therapy sessions, we'll aim to bring forth hope and change for you, and deeper connections with yourself and others. Session times are currently available, so please check in with me for a free chat.
(02) 9100 0994 View (02) 9100 0994
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 Chris Theodoridis, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Chris Theodoridis
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have extensive experience in areas of Depression, Anxiety, Life Stressors, Trauma, Psychiatric Disorders, Relationship/Interpersonal Issues, Stress, Self-esteem, Alcohol and Other Drugs, Sex, Sexuality and Gender, NDIS, Rehabilitation Consultancy, Behaviour Support and Psychological Assessments.
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 have extensive experience in areas of Depression, Anxiety, Life Stressors, Trauma, Psychiatric Disorders, Relationship/Interpersonal Issues, Stress, Self-esteem, Alcohol and Other Drugs, Sex, Sexuality and Gender, NDIS, Rehabilitation Consultancy, Behaviour Support and Psychological Assessments.
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 Renee Davies, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Renee Davies
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
At Elemental, Renée’s personal approach creates an environment where each person feels supported, connected, and understood. She believes that our sense of self and our interpersonal relationships are vital to our overall well-being. Relationships can shape who we are, how we see the world, and how we feel about ourselves. At the heart of our human experience lies the need for connection. Renée values diversity and cherishes the richness and creativity that our differences bring to our lives. She loves working with people of all sexual preferences, sex and gender identities, cultural backgrounds, and relationship types and styles.
At Elemental, Renée’s personal approach creates an environment where each person feels supported, connected, and understood. She believes that our sense of self and our interpersonal relationships are vital to our overall well-being. Relationships can shape who we are, how we see the world, and how we feel about ourselves. At the heart of our human experience lies the need for connection. Renée values diversity and cherishes the richness and creativity that our differences bring to our lives. She loves working with people of all sexual preferences, sex and gender identities, cultural backgrounds, and relationship types and styles.
(02) 9100 0327 View (02) 9100 0327
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 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 Tanuja Sahoo - Unlock The Mind Counselling Services, Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Unlock The Mind Counselling Services
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Tanuja is an enthusiastic, self-aware therapist with a strong work ethic and a deeply ingrained desire to help others. She has highly developed interpersonal skills and understands working with individuals and couples from diverse backgrounds. She is skilled in Trauma, Domestic violence and suicide prevention, drawing from different therapeutic modalities. She has a considerable interest in helping people facing challenges with mental health. Her natural interests are helping people feel comfortable and open, exploring and understanding their concerns and bringing about positive change and greater well-being.
Tanuja is an enthusiastic, self-aware therapist with a strong work ethic and a deeply ingrained desire to help others. She has highly developed interpersonal skills and understands working with individuals and couples from diverse backgrounds. She is skilled in Trauma, Domestic violence and suicide prevention, drawing from different therapeutic modalities. She has a considerable interest in helping people facing challenges with mental health. Her natural interests are helping people feel comfortable and open, exploring and understanding their concerns and bringing about positive change and greater well-being.
(02) 8105 5488 View (02) 8105 5488
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
Self Esteem Therapists
When should a person seek therapy for low self-esteem?
When self-esteem problems begin to disrupt the healthy daily functioning of an individual, it may be a good time to look into therapy. If a person finds that they are not engaging with friends for fear of being judged, not completing work assignments because they don’t think they’re capable, or not finding romantic love because they don’t feel they’re worthy of it, a therapist may be able to help.

What are the signs of low self-esteem?
Low self-esteem is a common issue that can affect a person's mental and emotional well-being. Some common signs of low self-esteem include negative self-talk, perfectionism, social anxiety, difficulty making decisions, an inability to set boundaries, people-pleasing, and others. A lack of belief in oneself or one’s abilities and a feeling of not being worthy or deserving underlie most of these characteristics.

What causes low self-esteem?
Feelings of low self-worth can begin in childhood or adulthood. Being raised by a highly critical parent or growing up feeling constant disapproval can stay with a person well into adulthood. Specific issues in adulthood may also be a cause of low self-esteem. An unhappy relationship, a dysfunctional work or school experience can impact a person’s feelings of self-worth.

How can therapy improve self-esteem?
Therapists can help identify negative thought patterns that keep the client stuck in a loop of destructive self-talk and develop coping skills to change the voice in their head. A therapist can help with goal-setting, so that clients are better able to stay on task and build confidence from successfully completing work they’re proud of. Coaching a client on how to better communicate can improve relationships. These skills can result in someone with low self-esteem feeling empowered and living with less fear.