Trauma Focused 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 Stuart Lokhee, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Stuart Lokhee
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Petersham, NSW 2049
Welcome - I am a Clinical Psychologist providing in-person and telehealth services, with over 25 years of frontline experience as a Police Officer, Detective, and United Nations Peacekeeper. I work with people who are used to carrying responsibility, pushing through stress, and looking after others before themselves. Often, they have spent years managing pressure quietly; work, partners or as fathers, before reaching a point where stress, anxiety, burnout, anger, sleep problems, trauma, or emotional exhaustion begin affecting daily life. I provide a practical global evidence based approach to therapy and a good dose of humour.
Welcome - I am a Clinical Psychologist providing in-person and telehealth services, with over 25 years of frontline experience as a Police Officer, Detective, and United Nations Peacekeeper. I work with people who are used to carrying responsibility, pushing through stress, and looking after others before themselves. Often, they have spent years managing pressure quietly; work, partners or as fathers, before reaching a point where stress, anxiety, burnout, anger, sleep problems, trauma, or emotional exhaustion begin affecting daily life. I provide a practical global evidence based approach to therapy and a good dose of humour.
0452 472 764 View 0452 472 764
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 Jane Rabie, Social Worker, AASW
Jane Rabie
Social Worker, AASW
1 Endorsed
Petersham, NSW 2049
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.
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 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 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 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 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 Toni Leemen, Psychotherapist
Toni Leemen
Psychotherapist
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I trained as a therapist because I know the grief, health-related anxiety and depression of chronic illness can be overwhelming. What was going on pre-diagnosis can also need attention. I am available to validate difficult feelings, explore the sense of burden and work towards acceptance and restoring self-worth and confidence. My lived experience is of managing T1 Diabetes from the age of 17. My research interest is the role of chronic stress in auto-immune conditions and my purpose is to be available to those who seek more grounded and settled nervous systems as part of their approach to managing their health.
I trained as a therapist because I know the grief, health-related anxiety and depression of chronic illness can be overwhelming. What was going on pre-diagnosis can also need attention. I am available to validate difficult feelings, explore the sense of burden and work towards acceptance and restoring self-worth and confidence. My lived experience is of managing T1 Diabetes from the age of 17. My research interest is the role of chronic stress in auto-immune conditions and my purpose is to be available to those who seek more grounded and settled nervous systems as part of their approach to managing their health.
(02) 9159 6502 View (02) 9159 6502
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 Roberta Iavarone, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Roberta Iavarone
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have extensive experience using individually tailored, strengths based therapies including mindfulness, compassion & trauma focused therapies & EMDR.
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.
I have extensive experience using individually tailored, strengths based therapies including mindfulness, compassion & trauma focused therapies & EMDR.
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 Erin Stuart, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Erin Stuart
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with clients impacted by trauma, relationship difficulties, mental health concerns and feelings of overwhelm and disconnection. I have a particular interest in supporting those with experiences of domestic, family and sexual violence including child sexual abuse. My work takes into account not only your personal history, but also the social context of power and inequality.
I work with clients impacted by trauma, relationship difficulties, mental health concerns and feelings of overwhelm and disconnection. I have a particular interest in supporting those with experiences of domestic, family and sexual violence including child sexual abuse. My work takes into account not only your personal history, but also the social context of power and inequality.
View
Photo of Julia Lee - Julia Lee Insights, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Julia Lee Insights
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Career Counsellor and Coach with an extensive background combining both leadership capability and psychology. I work with people, at all career and life stages, who are capable, high performing and reflective, and who are at a critical crossroads. I am accredited Counsellor (Australian Counselling Association, Level 2), and have had a global career in corporate leadership, learning and development and executive capability. I have held senior roles in numerous organisations including The Independent, Reed Business Information, Diageo, Blackmores and Australian Radio Network. I hold a Masters in Counselling.
I am a Career Counsellor and Coach with an extensive background combining both leadership capability and psychology. I work with people, at all career and life stages, who are capable, high performing and reflective, and who are at a critical crossroads. I am accredited Counsellor (Australian Counselling Association, Level 2), and have had a global career in corporate leadership, learning and development and executive capability. I have held senior roles in numerous organisations including The Independent, Reed Business Information, Diageo, Blackmores and Australian Radio Network. I hold a Masters in Counselling.
(07) 5241 1740 View (07) 5241 1740
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 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 Stacey Walsh, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Stacey Walsh
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
One of my passions is in helping my clients explore how early life experiences contribute to the ways they relate in the world as they go through life. I look for ways to work with you to process and heal traumas (both early and later in life), relationship or life patterns and missing experiences to assist you to show up in your life in a way that feels authentic, grounded and connected. Your journey and the way that your system organises itself to meet your needs are unique to you and I am honoured by the opportunity to assist you in making meaning of your own experiences.
One of my passions is in helping my clients explore how early life experiences contribute to the ways they relate in the world as they go through life. I look for ways to work with you to process and heal traumas (both early and later in life), relationship or life patterns and missing experiences to assist you to show up in your life in a way that feels authentic, grounded and connected. Your journey and the way that your system organises itself to meet your needs are unique to you and I am honoured by the opportunity to assist you in making meaning of your own experiences.
(02) 9100 0392 View (02) 9100 0392
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 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 Von Coves, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Von Coves
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
Dissociation? TRAUMA? CPTSD? Perhaps you’ve tried therapy but it hasn’t helped at a deeper level. Perhaps you've felt judged or misunderstood. Yet therapy doesn’t have to be miserable! Healing is often found in the quality of your relationship with your therapist. If you experience complex trauma and dissociation, it doesn’t mean there’s something wrong with you. It just means that responses that helped you survive in the past are getting in the way in the present. Together, with patience and understanding, we can update these patterns so you can feel better. Using IFS, EMDR, Psychodynamic approaches. You are welcome to contact me.
Dissociation? TRAUMA? CPTSD? Perhaps you’ve tried therapy but it hasn’t helped at a deeper level. Perhaps you've felt judged or misunderstood. Yet therapy doesn’t have to be miserable! Healing is often found in the quality of your relationship with your therapist. If you experience complex trauma and dissociation, it doesn’t mean there’s something wrong with you. It just means that responses that helped you survive in the past are getting in the way in the present. Together, with patience and understanding, we can update these patterns so you can feel better. Using IFS, EMDR, Psychodynamic approaches. You are welcome to contact me.
(02) 9100 0400 View (02) 9100 0400