Substance Use Psychologists and Therapists in Petersham, NSW

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 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 Voula Kougelos, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Voula Kougelos
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Serves Area
With over 35 years experience in various therapy and senior health management roles including President of the NSW Association of Adolescent Health, I have had the privilege and opportunity to listen to and develop a deep understanding of the needs of others. I use a range of evidence based, wholistic, strength focussed and trauma informed strategies to support, empower and enhance mental wellbeing.
With over 35 years experience in various therapy and senior health management roles including President of the NSW Association of Adolescent Health, I have had the privilege and opportunity to listen to and develop a deep understanding of the needs of others. I use a range of evidence based, wholistic, strength focussed and trauma informed strategies to support, empower and enhance mental wellbeing.
(02) 8599 0768 View (02) 8599 0768
Photo of Lauren O'Donoghue, Psychotherapist, ACA-L1
Lauren O'Donoghue
Psychotherapist, ACA-L1
Serves Area
I typically work with clients who are navigating burnout, emotional overwhelm, life transitions, relationship or workplace challenges, substance use concerns, anxiety, mood swings or existential crisis.
My work is: Neurodivergent affirming; Trauma informed; Lived experience informed; LGBTIQA+ affirming; Gender affirming; Ethical Non-monogamy affirming; Sex Positive; SW Safe; Wholistic; Body-based; Anti-oppressive; Anti-ableist; De-pathologizing; De-Colonial; Strengths based; Flexible and adaptable to fluctuating capacity, sensory & communication needs
I typically work with clients who are navigating burnout, emotional overwhelm, life transitions, relationship or workplace challenges, substance use concerns, anxiety, mood swings or existential crisis.
My work is: Neurodivergent affirming; Trauma informed; Lived experience informed; LGBTIQA+ affirming; Gender affirming; Ethical Non-monogamy affirming; Sex Positive; SW Safe; Wholistic; Body-based; Anti-oppressive; Anti-ableist; De-pathologizing; De-Colonial; Strengths based; Flexible and adaptable to fluctuating capacity, sensory & communication needs
0403 912 902 View 0403 912 902
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 Maya Floyd - existential psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
existential psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have over 19 years experience in counselling and psychology in non-government organisations, education, and private practice, providing services to adolescents, adults, and families. 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.
I have over 19 years experience in counselling and psychology in non-government organisations, education, and private practice, providing services to adolescents, adults, and families. 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.
0423 701 157 View 0423 701 157
Photo of Bronwyn Davies Glover - Bronwyn Davies Glover - As You Are Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Bronwyn Davies Glover - As You Are Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Bronwyn. I am an integrative, empathic, person-centred therapist bringing holistic, somatic, creative and dynamic approaches to the intersections of anti-oppressive, trauma informed practice. I offer inclusive, accessible therapy that values every aspect of the client. This means that I view each client as a whole person with a unique worldview informed by the stories of their mind-body experiences. Each unique individual requires a uniquely individual approach and this approach is grounded in the principles of trauma care; safety, trustworthiness, collaboration, empowerment and choice.
Hi, I'm Bronwyn. I am an integrative, empathic, person-centred therapist bringing holistic, somatic, creative and dynamic approaches to the intersections of anti-oppressive, trauma informed practice. I offer inclusive, accessible therapy that values every aspect of the client. This means that I view each client as a whole person with a unique worldview informed by the stories of their mind-body experiences. Each unique individual requires a uniquely individual approach and this approach is grounded in the principles of trauma care; safety, trustworthiness, collaboration, empowerment and choice.
(02) 8074 1609 View (02) 8074 1609
Photo of Maria Simonetta, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Maria Simonetta
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
When lingering or reoccurring issues arise they create within us a dissatisfaction about life and how we feel about ourselves. Issues such as relationship difficulties, addictions, career, life transitions, parenting, depression, anxiety, stress, body image, negative beliefs and thoughts, emotional overwhelm, aggression, low energy, impulsivity etc. can affect your self esteem and your ability to think clearly and solve problems effectively. Learning new skills, building on resilience and resources and dealing with past issues that affect your present life can be empowering and create satisfaction and fulfilment in your life.
When lingering or reoccurring issues arise they create within us a dissatisfaction about life and how we feel about ourselves. Issues such as relationship difficulties, addictions, career, life transitions, parenting, depression, anxiety, stress, body image, negative beliefs and thoughts, emotional overwhelm, aggression, low energy, impulsivity etc. can affect your self esteem and your ability to think clearly and solve problems effectively. Learning new skills, building on resilience and resources and dealing with past issues that affect your present life can be empowering and create satisfaction and fulfilment in your life.
(02) 8073 9397 View (02) 8073 9397
Photo of Charlotte Ritchie - Charlotte Ritchie Counselling and Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Charlotte Ritchie Counselling and Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
I am passionate about partnering with people to help them tolerate extreme emotion, to learn and grow and be free to choose new behaviours. I have decades of lived and years of clinical experience with Alcohol and Other Drugs use and abuse and the traumas that so often lead to it and arise from it. I have understanding of complex PTSD and the Autonomic Nervous System and the ways our experiences get laid down in our systems and repeat themselves, often causing relationship upsets.
I am passionate about partnering with people to help them tolerate extreme emotion, to learn and grow and be free to choose new behaviours. I have decades of lived and years of clinical experience with Alcohol and Other Drugs use and abuse and the traumas that so often lead to it and arise from it. I have understanding of complex PTSD and the Autonomic Nervous System and the ways our experiences get laid down in our systems and repeat themselves, often causing relationship upsets.
(02) 9100 0566 View (02) 9100 0566
Photo of Chris Theodoridis, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Chris Theodoridis
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a registered psychologist, board approved supervisor and SIRA registered. I have also had extensive experience with NDIS clients, workcover, career coaching and vocational assessments/ reports.
I am a registered psychologist, board approved supervisor and SIRA registered. I have also had extensive experience with NDIS clients, workcover, career coaching and vocational assessments/ reports.
(02) 9100 0069 View (02) 9100 0069
Photo of 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

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dave Segal, Counsellor, PACFA
Dave Segal
Counsellor, PACFA
Online Only
Specialising in couples counselling, substance use, grief, and trauma I utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
If you’ve found yourself here, chances are something important isn’t feeling right—maybe in your relationship, your sense of self, or both. Whether you’re in a new relationship or have been together for decades, it’s common to feel stuck, disconnected, or unsure of how to move forward. And it’s not always easy to open up to friends, family, or even your partner. I offer a warm, collaborative space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported as we work together to create meaningful, lasting change—emotionally, mentally, and in the way you connect with others. Therapy isn’t about fixing you—it’s about supporting you.
Specialising in couples counselling, substance use, grief, and trauma I utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
If you’ve found yourself here, chances are something important isn’t feeling right—maybe in your relationship, your sense of self, or both. Whether you’re in a new relationship or have been together for decades, it’s common to feel stuck, disconnected, or unsure of how to move forward. And it’s not always easy to open up to friends, family, or even your partner. I offer a warm, collaborative space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported as we work together to create meaningful, lasting change—emotionally, mentally, and in the way you connect with others. Therapy isn’t about fixing you—it’s about supporting you.
(07) 4085 9014 View (07) 4085 9014
Photo of Holly Read - Holly Read - HR Counselling, Counsellor, AMHSW
Holly Read - HR Counselling
Counsellor, AMHSW
Serves Area
I am an Accredited Mental Health SW with over two decades of Counselling and Psychotherapy experience, I provide compassionate, client-centered counselling tailored to each individual's unique needs. My approach is trauma-informed, grounded in empathy, active listening, and evidence-based techniques to support personal growth, resilience, and well-being.
I am an Accredited Mental Health SW with over two decades of Counselling and Psychotherapy experience, I provide compassionate, client-centered counselling tailored to each individual's unique needs. My approach is trauma-informed, grounded in empathy, active listening, and evidence-based techniques to support personal growth, resilience, and well-being.
(02) 4210 5768 View (02) 4210 5768
Photo of Carolina Bustos, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Carolina Bustos
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I am a warm and non-judgmental therapist, who enjoys working collaboratively with my clients. I use a humanistic approach and a variety of evidence-based techniques to facilitate goal achievements. I work reflectively and obtain feedback from my clients to ensure treatment plans make genuine sense through their time in therapy. I provide a welcoming space for my younger clients where they feel free to express their emotions and thoughts in a safe and fun manner (play therapy, artistic activities or verbal communication). Having lived in several countries, I have a broad understanding of cultural differences and human diversity.
I am a warm and non-judgmental therapist, who enjoys working collaboratively with my clients. I use a humanistic approach and a variety of evidence-based techniques to facilitate goal achievements. I work reflectively and obtain feedback from my clients to ensure treatment plans make genuine sense through their time in therapy. I provide a welcoming space for my younger clients where they feel free to express their emotions and thoughts in a safe and fun manner (play therapy, artistic activities or verbal communication). Having lived in several countries, I have a broad understanding of cultural differences and human diversity.
(03) 6164 5011 View (03) 6164 5011
Photo of Lucie Swaffield, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA Endorsed
Lucie Swaffield
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA Endorsed
1 Endorsed
Woollahra, NSW 2025
As a Clinical and Forensic Psychologist, and Advanced Accredited Schema Therapist, Lucie brings a particular skill set and tested methods that work. Lucie has over 11 years of experience treating a broad range of clinical and forensic difficulties, including trauma, PTSD, addiction, personality disorders and complex problems.
As a Clinical and Forensic Psychologist, and Advanced Accredited Schema Therapist, Lucie brings a particular skill set and tested methods that work. Lucie has over 11 years of experience treating a broad range of clinical and forensic difficulties, including trauma, PTSD, addiction, personality disorders and complex problems.
(02) 9000 1914 View (02) 9000 1914
Photo of Barry Lewis, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Barry Lewis
Psychotherapist, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Surry Hills, NSW 2010
Many different events will impact our lives, most of the time we can deal with them, other times we cannot. A difficult childhood, the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, an illness or accident, a toxic work environment, sexuality & gender, unemployment, the current pandemic affecting our world or just being at a new stage of our lives can cause us to feel lost within ourselves and the wider world. This can lead to anxiety or depression, it can affect our self-esteem and disconnect us from everyone around us, leaving us isolated and alone.
Many different events will impact our lives, most of the time we can deal with them, other times we cannot. A difficult childhood, the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, an illness or accident, a toxic work environment, sexuality & gender, unemployment, the current pandemic affecting our world or just being at a new stage of our lives can cause us to feel lost within ourselves and the wider world. This can lead to anxiety or depression, it can affect our self-esteem and disconnect us from everyone around us, leaving us isolated and alone.
(02) 6189 2878 View (02) 6189 2878
Photo of Matthew William Sutherland - Sutherland Vitality, Social Worker, AASW
Sutherland Vitality
Social Worker, AASW
1 Endorsed
Marrickville, NSW 2204
We all struggle sometimes with life, but sometimes, it can feel like there’s no way forward. Sometimes there are things that you wish you could talk about with someone, but you just can’t find anyone who really hears you. I believe that we all deserve to be heard, and that when someone truly listens, it can help us to heal, grow, and move forward. My goal is to collaborate with you to create a shared understanding of your situation and some ways to move forward. It’s fantastic that you’re considering therapy, and I hope to support you on your journey however I can.
We all struggle sometimes with life, but sometimes, it can feel like there’s no way forward. Sometimes there are things that you wish you could talk about with someone, but you just can’t find anyone who really hears you. I believe that we all deserve to be heard, and that when someone truly listens, it can help us to heal, grow, and move forward. My goal is to collaborate with you to create a shared understanding of your situation and some ways to move forward. It’s fantastic that you’re considering therapy, and I hope to support you on your journey however I can.
0459 678 306 View 0459 678 306
Photo of Kristy Herring - Kristy - Innisfree Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Kristy - Innisfree Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Telehealth Appointments Currently Available! If you would like to live a more fulfilling life, learn better ways to cope and feel more hope for the future, I encourage you to make contact. My style of therapy includes trauma-informed approaches that review underlying beliefs, address unwanted behaviours and thought patterns, and support improvements in your relationships. The aim of treatment is to guide you to process your emotions, talk about your feelings, and to develop practical skills that assist you to make meaningful change in your life.
Telehealth Appointments Currently Available! If you would like to live a more fulfilling life, learn better ways to cope and feel more hope for the future, I encourage you to make contact. My style of therapy includes trauma-informed approaches that review underlying beliefs, address unwanted behaviours and thought patterns, and support improvements in your relationships. The aim of treatment is to guide you to process your emotions, talk about your feelings, and to develop practical skills that assist you to make meaningful change in your life.
(02) 4503 8937 View (02) 4503 8937
Photo of Caitlin Amanda Gaffney, Social Worker, AASW
Caitlin Amanda Gaffney
Social Worker, AASW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am experienced working with neuro-diversity, addiction/ substance use and behaviour change.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with specialised experience supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, recovery and trauma. I am a Credentialed Eating Disorder Clinician and member of ANZAED. My approach is grounded in empathy, empowerment and collaboration, focused on building the insight, self-compassion, and practical skills needed to achieve your goals and live in alignment with your values. Clients who are referred by a GP with a mental health care plan are eligible for Medicare rebates of $87.25 per session.
I am experienced working with neuro-diversity, addiction/ substance use and behaviour change.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with specialised experience supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, recovery and trauma. I am a Credentialed Eating Disorder Clinician and member of ANZAED. My approach is grounded in empathy, empowerment and collaboration, focused on building the insight, self-compassion, and practical skills needed to achieve your goals and live in alignment with your values. Clients who are referred by a GP with a mental health care plan are eligible for Medicare rebates of $87.25 per session.
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Photo of Rodney Ts - Help Now Group, Social Worker, AMHSW
Help Now Group
Social Worker, AMHSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I provide EMDR, Gestalt, and CBT therapy for people with a wide range of issues from PTSD, Anxiety, Substance Use, Dissociation, and more
The ideal person coming into see me are committing to change for themselves. I see their ideal goals are finding peace with their trauma, anxiety, depression, and etc. I see that they are looking for a calm place even if they have not experienced this in their life before.
I provide EMDR, Gestalt, and CBT therapy for people with a wide range of issues from PTSD, Anxiety, Substance Use, Dissociation, and more
The ideal person coming into see me are committing to change for themselves. I see their ideal goals are finding peace with their trauma, anxiety, depression, and etc. I see that they are looking for a calm place even if they have not experienced this in their life before.
(02) 5133 8472 View (02) 5133 8472
Substance Use Therapists
How do substance and drug recovery or rehabilitation programs work?
In inpatient programs, individuals live in a facility with other clients in recovery; in outpatient programs, individuals reside at home. These facilities are staffed with healthcare professionals including physicians, nurses, psychologists, counsellors, and psychotherapists. Staff often also includes people who have recovered themselves, serving as mentors and guides. These programs may use abstinence, harm reduction, detoxification, psychotherapy, and other methods.

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

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

Are there specific medications for substance and drug use?
There are medications approved to treat substance use disorder—such as buprenorphine, methadone, naltrexone, and acamprosate. These medications do help people cope with substance use as well as avoid the problem of relapse. Naltrexone can help reduce cravings, methadone is an opioid medication used to treat severe pain, and acamprosate may help ease symptoms like poor sleep and anxious feelings.