Women's Issues Psychologists and Therapists in Petersham, NSW

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 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 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 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 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 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.
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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 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 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 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 Malak Shakhtour, Social Worker, AMHSW
Malak Shakhtour
Social Worker, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you're feeling lost, defeated, trying to navigate difficult emotions, I am here to help support you through your next life chapter. I am an accredited mental health social worker with experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. It can be incredibly difficult to change ongoing negative patterns of behaviour, I work on increasing your awareness of these behaviours and responses, whilst giving you coping skills to change old patterns. Whether your goal is to learn to cope with difficult emotions, understanding your psyche or looking to get "unstuck", we can work together to improve the next phase of your life.
If you're feeling lost, defeated, trying to navigate difficult emotions, I am here to help support you through your next life chapter. I am an accredited mental health social worker with experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. It can be incredibly difficult to change ongoing negative patterns of behaviour, I work on increasing your awareness of these behaviours and responses, whilst giving you coping skills to change old patterns. Whether your goal is to learn to cope with difficult emotions, understanding your psyche or looking to get "unstuck", we can work together to improve the next phase of your life.
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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 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 Marie Mooney, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Marie Mooney
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
I honour the innate wisdom in all of us, and hold deep respect and compassion for people. My aim is to provide a safe, compassionate and healing space, where you can talk about, explore and find solutions to what's really happening in your life and whatever brings you to counselling. I will support you to create a healthy relationship and connection with yourself and others, and will walk with you, as you overcome the obstacles, and celebrate the steps you take towards living more of the life you desire.
I honour the innate wisdom in all of us, and hold deep respect and compassion for people. My aim is to provide a safe, compassionate and healing space, where you can talk about, explore and find solutions to what's really happening in your life and whatever brings you to counselling. I will support you to create a healthy relationship and connection with yourself and others, and will walk with you, as you overcome the obstacles, and celebrate the steps you take towards living more of the life you desire.
(02) 8105 5005 View (02) 8105 5005
Photo of 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 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 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 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 Lauren O'Donoghue, Psychotherapist, ACA-L1
Lauren O'Donoghue
Psychotherapist, ACA-L1
Serves Area
I support clients who may feel misunderstood by traditional models of mental health care, particularly those who (like me) are Neurodivergent, Queer, Chronically ill & Disabled. 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. I am honoured to walk alongside my clients helping them to make meaning, heal hurt, find their spark, cope with suffering, and come home to themselves. My work is guided by my values of authenticity, connection, humour, agency, and joy.
I support clients who may feel misunderstood by traditional models of mental health care, particularly those who (like me) are Neurodivergent, Queer, Chronically ill & Disabled. 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. I am honoured to walk alongside my clients helping them to make meaning, heal hurt, find their spark, cope with suffering, and come home to themselves. My work is guided by my values of authenticity, connection, humour, agency, and joy.
0403 912 902 View 0403 912 902
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 Tatiana Faundez, Social Worker, AASW
Tatiana Faundez
Social Worker, AASW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Social Worker and a Gestalt Psychotherapist. I have worked in mental health, disability, with the aged and the dying. Throughout my life journey I have come to have a deep appreciation of the human spirit and its capacity for growth and development. I understand that we are all unique in our response to the challenges that we face, and I work towards creating a supportive and safe environment that allows exploration of what is currently occurring in your life and how it is impacting your ability to live as you would like. Through this process, awareness deepens and the possibility and opportunity for change can occur.
I am a Social Worker and a Gestalt Psychotherapist. I have worked in mental health, disability, with the aged and the dying. Throughout my life journey I have come to have a deep appreciation of the human spirit and its capacity for growth and development. I understand that we are all unique in our response to the challenges that we face, and I work towards creating a supportive and safe environment that allows exploration of what is currently occurring in your life and how it is impacting your ability to live as you would like. Through this process, awareness deepens and the possibility and opportunity for change can occur.
0402 975 707 View 0402 975 707
Women's Issues Therapists
How do you encourage a woman to go to therapy?
It’s helpful to express concern and love for the person while framing therapy as a tool for improving their life. Offering specific examples of how an individual may be suffering, and what effects it has on them, should be done with compassion and with empathy. It may be useful to devise a game plan—breaking the process down into parts, such as finding a therapist, making appointments, and looking into insurance coverage.

How can women prepare for therapy?
Women can prepare for therapy by being willing to talk about their past experiences and their private thoughts. Before a session, an individual may want to reflect on how they’ve felt since the last session and what’s happened in their lives. Between sessions, it can be useful to write down notes about their reaction to a given event or how they felt at a particular time.

How long does therapy for women’s issues often last?
As with any type of therapy, sessions depend on the individual and the challenges they face. Therapy types like Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), Prolonged exposure therapy (PET), and Eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR) can be brief, most often ranging from between 5 and 20 sessions. In some cases, such as for women with eating disorders, residential treatment may be recommended for an individual who is judged to be at high risk of self-harm. For any therapy, the duration will depend on the progress made and results realised.

How can women overcome stigma around specific challenges in order to seek therapy?
Women dealing with domestic abuse, sexual assault, eating disorders, and any other number of troubles may feel a stigma around seeking help. It’s important to remember that these issues are not uncommon and there is no shame in getting help for them. Therapy is confidential, and women can talk about their experiences without fear of judgment. Seeking therapy can be a courageous and liberating act, and an important step toward healing and recovery.