Addiction Psychologists and Therapists in Rhodes, NSW

Sylvia Chen
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
I am a trauma-informed clinical counsellor, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), gong sound healer, breathwork facilitator that firmly believes in the value of human life. I have experience in a range of areas including marriage/relationship, anxiety and stress, trauma, depression, attachment, family of origin issues, parenting, grief & loss, personal growth & development, special need supports and chronic health related concerns. ​I am warm, caring and insightful. I am here to support your integration, and all of the various parts of your personality and being, into a balanced and joyful whole, made up of body, mind and soul.
I am a trauma-informed clinical counsellor, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), gong sound healer, breathwork facilitator that firmly believes in the value of human life. I have experience in a range of areas including marriage/relationship, anxiety and stress, trauma, depression, attachment, family of origin issues, parenting, grief & loss, personal growth & development, special need supports and chronic health related concerns. ​I am warm, caring and insightful. I am here to support your integration, and all of the various parts of your personality and being, into a balanced and joyful whole, made up of body, mind and soul.
(02) 8403 0049 View (02) 8403 0049
Mary Capsanis
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I'm a Clinical Psychologist who started my practice Introspect Clinical Psychology as I'm passionate about creating a supportive space for people to explore their challenges without judgement. I work with adults (18+), including individuals as well as working with couples. My areas of focus are supporting individuals to improve symptoms of stress, anxiety, depression, as well as supporting those who want to recover from harmful coping behaviours. I have an interest in helping individuals work through the childhood origins of their current difficulties, as well as building coping mechanisms and outlets for their distress.
I'm a Clinical Psychologist who started my practice Introspect Clinical Psychology as I'm passionate about creating a supportive space for people to explore their challenges without judgement. I work with adults (18+), including individuals as well as working with couples. My areas of focus are supporting individuals to improve symptoms of stress, anxiety, depression, as well as supporting those who want to recover from harmful coping behaviours. I have an interest in helping individuals work through the childhood origins of their current difficulties, as well as building coping mechanisms and outlets for their distress.
(02) 7804 4751 View (02) 7804 4751
Biinu
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
From collaborating with different people through therapy over the years, I have noticed that even everyday people feel the effects of modern life on their mental health. This is because modern life comes with a lot of complexity and demands. Today, people pursue a combination of identity, lifestyle, fulfilment, achievement, supportive relationships, a work-life balance, financial gain, career progression, a bigger world purpose, and more. The pursuit is wonderful, however navigating these demands can strain our mental health over time.
From collaborating with different people through therapy over the years, I have noticed that even everyday people feel the effects of modern life on their mental health. This is because modern life comes with a lot of complexity and demands. Today, people pursue a combination of identity, lifestyle, fulfilment, achievement, supportive relationships, a work-life balance, financial gain, career progression, a bigger world purpose, and more. The pursuit is wonderful, however navigating these demands can strain our mental health over time.
(02) 9100 0528 View (02) 9100 0528
Fazeela Moghal
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
My areas of interest and expertise are complex trauma, Depression/Post Natal Depression, Anxiety, Phobias, OCD, Eating Disorders, Addiction, Workplace injury Bullying, Stress, and anger management Interpersonal and relationship difficulties Grief, Trauma/Abuse, Personality Disorders Domestic Violence, Disability, Self-harm Suicidal Ideation
My approach to psychotherapy is integrative. I am sensitive to individual client needs and tailor therapy techniques that best suit a client’s problem. I am skilled in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness based Cognitive Therapy, EMDR, Schema Therapy and Acceptance Commitment Therapy.
My areas of interest and expertise are complex trauma, Depression/Post Natal Depression, Anxiety, Phobias, OCD, Eating Disorders, Addiction, Workplace injury Bullying, Stress, and anger management Interpersonal and relationship difficulties Grief, Trauma/Abuse, Personality Disorders Domestic Violence, Disability, Self-harm Suicidal Ideation
My approach to psychotherapy is integrative. I am sensitive to individual client needs and tailor therapy techniques that best suit a client’s problem. I am skilled in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness based Cognitive Therapy, EMDR, Schema Therapy and Acceptance Commitment Therapy.
(02) 8105 5759 View (02) 8105 5759
Zoe Lam
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
提供廣東話, 國語, 英語服務. My clients seek understanding, healing, and growth. They may be facing different mental health challenges, from adjusting to changes and stress, to managing complex issues such as trauma related issues. My commitment is to provide a safe space for exploration and empowerment, guiding them towards resilience and fulfilment. We work together toward the goal of becoming the person they want themselves to be. 我的客戶追求理解, 療癒和成長. 他們可能正面對心理健康問題, 由適應壓力到面對創傷相關的複合問題. 我致於提供一個安全的空間去尋找和成就自己, 培養強壯的心靈和心靈滿足. 我們一起邁向「成為自己想成為的人」的目標.
提供廣東話, 國語, 英語服務. My clients seek understanding, healing, and growth. They may be facing different mental health challenges, from adjusting to changes and stress, to managing complex issues such as trauma related issues. My commitment is to provide a safe space for exploration and empowerment, guiding them towards resilience and fulfilment. We work together toward the goal of becoming the person they want themselves to be. 我的客戶追求理解, 療癒和成長. 他們可能正面對心理健康問題, 由適應壓力到面對創傷相關的複合問題. 我致於提供一個安全的空間去尋找和成就自己, 培養強壯的心靈和心靈滿足. 我們一起邁向「成為自己想成為的人」的目標.
(02) 7804 4050 View (02) 7804 4050
York Hong Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Feeling Stressed, Stuck, Worn Down, or Shut Off? Support is available to help navigate stress, burnout, unresolved trauma, difficult family dynamics and emotional overload — even when everything looks “fine” on the outside. I also provide confidential services coaching professionals prepare for interviews, exams and other high stress events such as medical specialisation, fellowship and viva exams. Catering for those with a busy schedule with in person sessions offered on Saturdays in Croydon (Sydney Inner West) or flexibly with telehealth throughout the week. Workcover, CTP and SIRA referrals are also accepted.
Feeling Stressed, Stuck, Worn Down, or Shut Off? Support is available to help navigate stress, burnout, unresolved trauma, difficult family dynamics and emotional overload — even when everything looks “fine” on the outside. I also provide confidential services coaching professionals prepare for interviews, exams and other high stress events such as medical specialisation, fellowship and viva exams. Catering for those with a busy schedule with in person sessions offered on Saturdays in Croydon (Sydney Inner West) or flexibly with telehealth throughout the week. Workcover, CTP and SIRA referrals are also accepted.
(02) 8105 5213 View (02) 8105 5213
Margo Orum
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Sometimes, after years of life being OK, things can just start to unravel, and you find yourself having to find a new way to think, or even a new way to be. At times like this, we start to question what really matters in our life, and we can be uncertain about the best way to move forward. Drawing on my PhD research into sense of self and adult change, I help clients to consider that they just might be entering a whole new stage of adult growth, where their old priorities may need to change, to make way for new, fresh ideas to flow, on who we believe we are, and what is possible for our life.
Sometimes, after years of life being OK, things can just start to unravel, and you find yourself having to find a new way to think, or even a new way to be. At times like this, we start to question what really matters in our life, and we can be uncertain about the best way to move forward. Drawing on my PhD research into sense of self and adult change, I help clients to consider that they just might be entering a whole new stage of adult growth, where their old priorities may need to change, to make way for new, fresh ideas to flow, on who we believe we are, and what is possible for our life.
(02) 9158 6314 View (02) 9158 6314

More Therapists Nearby

Rosalynn Koh
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Surry Hills, NSW 2010
She understands the development stages of children and young adults well and has helped many to overcome issues such as depression, anxiety and addiction.
Rosalynn is a bilingual therapist who is fluent in English and Mandarin. 我可以用普通话咨询, 并使用符合文化的方法帮助客户. She also understands the Chinese and Western culture well and uses a culturally-appropriate method to help her clients achieve their goals. She uses Cognitive Behavior Therapy widely in her work and adopts other forms of therapy.
She understands the development stages of children and young adults well and has helped many to overcome issues such as depression, anxiety and addiction.
Rosalynn is a bilingual therapist who is fluent in English and Mandarin. 我可以用普通话咨询, 并使用符合文化的方法帮助客户. She also understands the Chinese and Western culture well and uses a culturally-appropriate method to help her clients achieve their goals. She uses Cognitive Behavior Therapy widely in her work and adopts other forms of therapy.
(02) 9100 0936 View (02) 9100 0936
Jackson Goding - Find Reason Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
3 Endorsed
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
I work closely with codependency, substance use and behavioural addictions with my experience working at South Pacific Private Hospital
Do you ever struggle with how you see yourself and how you show up in relationships? Is something getting in the way of allowing you to meet your needs, trust yourself, or connect with others? At Find Reason Therapy, we help people understand the patterns, beliefs, and emotional wounds that may be keeping them stuck. Through a compassionate, trauma-informed approach, we create a space to build self-worth, strengthen relationships, and reconnect with who you are beneath the pain. Together, we work toward greater clarity, confidence, purpose, and meaningful connection.
I work closely with codependency, substance use and behavioural addictions with my experience working at South Pacific Private Hospital
Do you ever struggle with how you see yourself and how you show up in relationships? Is something getting in the way of allowing you to meet your needs, trust yourself, or connect with others? At Find Reason Therapy, we help people understand the patterns, beliefs, and emotional wounds that may be keeping them stuck. Through a compassionate, trauma-informed approach, we create a space to build self-worth, strengthen relationships, and reconnect with who you are beneath the pain. Together, we work toward greater clarity, confidence, purpose, and meaningful connection.
(02) 9100 0013 View (02) 9100 0013
Sarah Bays
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
I've worked in large NGOs, with multi-disciplinary teams, in small grass roots organisations and in private practice providing therapeutic support to people with complex mental health, trauma, addiction, relationship issues & family conflict.
Want to create the life you want and reach your potential? Could you do with a little help to solve your problems? Well that's what I'm all about! I'm an experienced counsellor and psychotherapist and I work with individuals, couples & families from a trauma-informed and client-led perspective. I'm kind but direct when needed, and support in a solutions focused manner. I love to laugh, and enjoy helping people work through challenges and achieve their goals. I'm a certified DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy) practitioner and run DBT Skills groups or individual DBT sessions in person & online.
I've worked in large NGOs, with multi-disciplinary teams, in small grass roots organisations and in private practice providing therapeutic support to people with complex mental health, trauma, addiction, relationship issues & family conflict.
Want to create the life you want and reach your potential? Could you do with a little help to solve your problems? Well that's what I'm all about! I'm an experienced counsellor and psychotherapist and I work with individuals, couples & families from a trauma-informed and client-led perspective. I'm kind but direct when needed, and support in a solutions focused manner. I love to laugh, and enjoy helping people work through challenges and achieve their goals. I'm a certified DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy) practitioner and run DBT Skills groups or individual DBT sessions in person & online.
(02) 9100 0134 View (02) 9100 0134
My name is Johan Torsteinsrud, and my private practice is called Human Puzzles. I am a PACFA-certified professional counsellor who works mostly with international clients, with over ten years of experience in helping people from all walks of life find their way through life’s many challenges. My counselling sessions are conducted online. This provides a convenient and safe way for people to access support without the added stress of travelling to an office. I strive to create a safe space for all genders, races, cultures, bodies, sexual orientations, family constellations, and relationships.
My name is Johan Torsteinsrud, and my private practice is called Human Puzzles. I am a PACFA-certified professional counsellor who works mostly with international clients, with over ten years of experience in helping people from all walks of life find their way through life’s many challenges. My counselling sessions are conducted online. This provides a convenient and safe way for people to access support without the added stress of travelling to an office. I strive to create a safe space for all genders, races, cultures, bodies, sexual orientations, family constellations, and relationships.
(02) 9100 0570 View (02) 9100 0570
Bernadette Staunton
Counsellor, PACFA
3 Endorsed
Mount Annan, NSW 2567
We all have unique stories that have shaped us. I want to know how you feel about your story and how it has impacted your sense of wholeness. My goal is to help you build a better understanding of the pain, distress or fear that holds you back from achieving the life you want so you can begin to make room for more joy and a meaningful existence. I am committed to creating a safe and supportive environment by fostering an atmosphere where you feel heard, validated, and empowered to explore your experiences at your own pace.
We all have unique stories that have shaped us. I want to know how you feel about your story and how it has impacted your sense of wholeness. My goal is to help you build a better understanding of the pain, distress or fear that holds you back from achieving the life you want so you can begin to make room for more joy and a meaningful existence. I am committed to creating a safe and supportive environment by fostering an atmosphere where you feel heard, validated, and empowered to explore your experiences at your own pace.
(02) 4214 4670 View (02) 4214 4670
Peter Huang
Counsellor, MC, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Dundas Valley, NSW 2117
Peter works extensively with alcohol and other drug addictions, anxiety, depression, PTSD and other trauma work, grief counselling, couples, suicide prevention as well as working maladaptive emotions thought patterns and behaviours.
Peter understands messiness of life and how perfectly imperfect we as humans are. He believes that there is always beauty, strength and hope to be found in every circumstance. Peter’s ethos when it comes to counselling is to journey with you; helping you to process the hurt and trauma, celebrate the wins, grieve the losses, rediscover who you are, engaging in desired behavioural changes for a more meaningful and fulfilled life and lastly the discovery priceless gems on the way.
Peter works extensively with alcohol and other drug addictions, anxiety, depression, PTSD and other trauma work, grief counselling, couples, suicide prevention as well as working maladaptive emotions thought patterns and behaviours.
Peter understands messiness of life and how perfectly imperfect we as humans are. He believes that there is always beauty, strength and hope to be found in every circumstance. Peter’s ethos when it comes to counselling is to journey with you; helping you to process the hurt and trauma, celebrate the wins, grieve the losses, rediscover who you are, engaging in desired behavioural changes for a more meaningful and fulfilled life and lastly the discovery priceless gems on the way.
(02) 7804 4861 View (02) 7804 4861
Glyn Suller
Psychotherapist, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Balmain, NSW 2041
Building a secure, collaborative therapeutic relationship is central—I meet clients where they are to address depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, alcohol/ drug addiction, relationship challenges, life transitions, attachment wounds and codependency.
I use relational-based therapy for both individuals and couples, EMDR and CBT and still work as part of an inpatient team in a private hospital, specialising in childhood developmental trauma, attachment wounds and related recovery work.
Building a secure, collaborative therapeutic relationship is central—I meet clients where they are to address depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, alcohol/ drug addiction, relationship challenges, life transitions, attachment wounds and codependency.
I use relational-based therapy for both individuals and couples, EMDR and CBT and still work as part of an inpatient team in a private hospital, specialising in childhood developmental trauma, attachment wounds and related recovery work.
0415 731 527 View 0415 731 527
Jonathan Righetti
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Norwest, NSW 2153
For me, the heart of therapy is building a real, human connection. I like to keep the process authentic and, at times, a little unconventional—because no two people are the same, and neither is the way we work together. My role is to offer compassion, understanding, and steady support as we navigate whatever life is throwing your way. I believe in focusing on what’s gone right in your life—your wins, your strengths, and the moments you’ve already overcome—rather than only looking at setbacks. Every experience, whether uplifting or challenging, shapes who you are and can be a stepping stone toward who you want to become.
For me, the heart of therapy is building a real, human connection. I like to keep the process authentic and, at times, a little unconventional—because no two people are the same, and neither is the way we work together. My role is to offer compassion, understanding, and steady support as we navigate whatever life is throwing your way. I believe in focusing on what’s gone right in your life—your wins, your strengths, and the moments you’ve already overcome—rather than only looking at setbacks. Every experience, whether uplifting or challenging, shapes who you are and can be a stepping stone toward who you want to become.
(02) 7804 4773 View (02) 7804 4773
Nick Bowditch
Counsellor, PhD
Serves Area
I'm a counsellor with almost 20 years of clinical experience and my PhD research specialises in addiction recovery and relapse prevention.
With personal experience overcoming depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction, I bring nearly 20 years of clinical experience as a counsellor specialising in addiction recovery and relapse prevention. I work with people who are genuinely committed to lasting change — not just getting through the week.
I'm a counsellor with almost 20 years of clinical experience and my PhD research specialises in addiction recovery and relapse prevention.
With personal experience overcoming depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction, I bring nearly 20 years of clinical experience as a counsellor specialising in addiction recovery and relapse prevention. I work with people who are genuinely committed to lasting change — not just getting through the week.
(02) 4307 5133 View (02) 4307 5133
Danielle Waters
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I am a Clinical Psychologist who can help you to develop personal insight and to address symptoms of range of anxiety disorders; mood related issues; trauma; addiction; distress and overwhelming emotions; life stress; personality challenges and related unhelpful coping; interpersonal and relationship issues; communication skills; neurodivergent affirming.
My approach is warm, compassionate and genuine. I have experience in a range of therapies including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Trauma Focused CBT, Cognitive Processing Therapy and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy. I understand everyone is unique and I tailor treatment to your needs.
I am a Clinical Psychologist who can help you to develop personal insight and to address symptoms of range of anxiety disorders; mood related issues; trauma; addiction; distress and overwhelming emotions; life stress; personality challenges and related unhelpful coping; interpersonal and relationship issues; communication skills; neurodivergent affirming.
My approach is warm, compassionate and genuine. I have experience in a range of therapies including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Trauma Focused CBT, Cognitive Processing Therapy and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy. I understand everyone is unique and I tailor treatment to your needs.
(02) 8776 3282 View (02) 8776 3282
Helen Maxfield Counselling
Psychologist, MAPS
Hornsby, NSW 2077
Relationship and family challenges, as well as addiction (your own or that of a family member) may be overwhelming.
I am an experienced Psychologist with twenty years experience. Employed by NSW Health from 2003 to 2011, in the drug and alcohol services, I remain passionate about addictions and their association with trauma. In 2018 I obtained a Graduate Certificate of Neuropsychotherapy and love bringing this healing brain science to my clients.
Relationship and family challenges, as well as addiction (your own or that of a family member) may be overwhelming.
I am an experienced Psychologist with twenty years experience. Employed by NSW Health from 2003 to 2011, in the drug and alcohol services, I remain passionate about addictions and their association with trauma. In 2018 I obtained a Graduate Certificate of Neuropsychotherapy and love bringing this healing brain science to my clients.
(02) 8403 0570 View (02) 8403 0570
Sophie Aghdami
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Serves Area
At the heart of my approach is a firm belief in an individual’s capacity for growth. I don’t use one particular therapy pathway; my method honours individuality, using a range of strategies for the best outcomes for you personally. Increasing self awareness is our biggest opportunity to grow. Most often, when we’re experiencing something challenging, the key piece of the puzzle is understanding why we’re feeling what we’re feeling, why we’re doing what we’re doing, and why we’re experiencing what we’re experiencing. This helps us change unhelpful cycles & behaviours. My approach is effective for a range of life’s challenges.
At the heart of my approach is a firm belief in an individual’s capacity for growth. I don’t use one particular therapy pathway; my method honours individuality, using a range of strategies for the best outcomes for you personally. Increasing self awareness is our biggest opportunity to grow. Most often, when we’re experiencing something challenging, the key piece of the puzzle is understanding why we’re feeling what we’re feeling, why we’re doing what we’re doing, and why we’re experiencing what we’re experiencing. This helps us change unhelpful cycles & behaviours. My approach is effective for a range of life’s challenges.
(08) 6147 0248 View (08) 6147 0248
Amber Rules
Psychotherapist, PACFA
5 Endorsed
Leichhardt, NSW 2040
Are you struggling with substances, gambling, smoking or other patterns that feel impossible to change?
I specialise in supporting people with substance use concerns such as alcohol, drugs, and tobacco, as well as behavioural patterns like gambling, gaming, and impulsivity. My approach is flexible: individual therapy, couples' counselling, family counselling, group work, or online sessions - we'll find what works best for you and your situation.
Are you struggling with substances, gambling, smoking or other patterns that feel impossible to change?
I specialise in supporting people with substance use concerns such as alcohol, drugs, and tobacco, as well as behavioural patterns like gambling, gaming, and impulsivity. My approach is flexible: individual therapy, couples' counselling, family counselling, group work, or online sessions - we'll find what works best for you and your situation.
(02) 9158 6064 View (02) 9158 6064
Addiction Therapists
What is the best therapy for addiction?
Addiction treatment will be tailored to the individual. People seeking help for addiction—whether with a psychotherapist, in an outpatient clinic, or in a residential program—should expect to engage in multiple types of treatments, sometimes including medication. For anyone recovering from addiction, avoiding situations in which one has typically used a substance is essential, as is the support of close connections. Since substance use disorders tend to co-occur with underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression, those must also be addressed as part of any recovery plan.

How long does therapy for addiction take?
There is no set timeline for recovery from addiction. Patients and their families should expect the work to last several months, if not longer. Residential treatment programs may be based on a stay of 30, 60, or 90 days, with continuing work after release, but only about 1 percent of people are treated in such facilities. Ceasing use is just the first step; therapy to help maintain abstinence and effect behavior change must follow. The process of recovery, neuroscience has shown, involves brain cells recovering the capacity to respond to natural sources of reward and restore control over the impulse to use. Another definition of recovery is restoring voluntary control over one’s substance use and retaking all of one’s previous responsibilities.

How effective is drug addiction treatment?
Substance use disorders are treatable and remission is achievable for many who seek recovery; by some estimates, more than three-quarters of people who become addicted to alcohol or drugs recover. But that success rarely occurs quickly or on a set timeline; relapse is not only common, but many therapists and clinicians view it as a normal part of the process—not always a sign that a person has returned to addiction, but a signal that their treatment should be adjusted to help them regain control. Overall, research suggests, five years after the end of substance use, one’s risk of relapse is no greater than that of others who had not faced addiction. Other experts believe that complete abstinence is not the only measure of recovery, and that, through effective treatment, many people can learn to control their use.

How can you get addiction treatment for someone?
The most important factor in recovery from addiction is widely understood to be an individual’s commitment to change. For that reason,“interventions” in which friends and family gather to urge or force someone to begin immediate treatment often backfire; even when such efforts do lead someone to begin treatment, they may be less likely to stay than those who are self-driven. Still, family members can play an important role in supporting an individual who seeks help and can take part in family therapy as one element of a loved one’s treatment.