Depression Psychologists and Therapists in St Leonards, NSW

Photo of Janet Yap, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Janet Yap
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
St Leonards, NSW 2065
Waitlist for new clients
I am a clinical psychologist with over 15 years experience in supporting adults on their mental health journey. I have expertise in working with people who are experiencing challenges in coping with the stress of everyday life - whether that is in managing difficult relationships, parenting, work-related stress or general burnout and anxiety. I am also passionate about helping people break free from childhood and family dysfunction that has impacted on their capacity to live full and meaningful lives. I have particular expertise in treating adults with emotion dysregulation and unhelpful coping behaviours.
I am a clinical psychologist with over 15 years experience in supporting adults on their mental health journey. I have expertise in working with people who are experiencing challenges in coping with the stress of everyday life - whether that is in managing difficult relationships, parenting, work-related stress or general burnout and anxiety. I am also passionate about helping people break free from childhood and family dysfunction that has impacted on their capacity to live full and meaningful lives. I have particular expertise in treating adults with emotion dysregulation and unhelpful coping behaviours.
(02) 9100 0565 View (02) 9100 0565
Photo of Eddy Chiu - Biinu, Psychologist, MSc, MAPS
Biinu
Psychologist, MSc, MAPS
1 Endorsed
St Leonards, NSW 2065
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
Photo of Dr Daniel Kimber, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Daniel Kimber
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
St Leonards, NSW 2065
These commonly include Anxiety, Depression, Addictions and Trauma, as well as difficulties related to Identity, Self-Esteem, Relationships, and Emotion Regulation.
At the heart of my work is a collaborative relationship that supports exploration and growth. I take an integrative, depth-oriented and evidence-based approach, blending elements of Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, EMDR, Schema Therapy, CBT and DBT to fit each person's needs and address both current symptoms and their underlying causes.
These commonly include Anxiety, Depression, Addictions and Trauma, as well as difficulties related to Identity, Self-Esteem, Relationships, and Emotion Regulation.
At the heart of my work is a collaborative relationship that supports exploration and growth. I take an integrative, depth-oriented and evidence-based approach, blending elements of Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, EMDR, Schema Therapy, CBT and DBT to fit each person's needs and address both current symptoms and their underlying causes.
0422 866 131 View 0422 866 131
Photo of Dr Pauline Hall, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Pauline Hall
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
St Leonards, NSW 2065
Presentations commonly include PTSD, anxiety, depression, and neurodevelopmental conditions such as Autism and ADHD, often in the context of workplace or significant life stressors.
I provide psychological assessment, evidence-based treatment, and medico-legal reporting for adults with trauma, psychological injury, and complex mental health conditions. My expertise includes PTSD, workplace stress, mood and anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and Autism/ADHD, supporting recovery, functional capacity, and clear clinical opinions.
Presentations commonly include PTSD, anxiety, depression, and neurodevelopmental conditions such as Autism and ADHD, often in the context of workplace or significant life stressors.
I provide psychological assessment, evidence-based treatment, and medico-legal reporting for adults with trauma, psychological injury, and complex mental health conditions. My expertise includes PTSD, workplace stress, mood and anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and Autism/ADHD, supporting recovery, functional capacity, and clear clinical opinions.
(02) 9411 7837 View (02) 9411 7837
Photo of Christine Kim - Christine Kim Principal Psychologist, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Christine Kim Principal Psychologist
Psychologist, PsyBA General
St Leonards, NSW 2065
For over 10 years, Christine has experience working across a range of psychological issues including depression, anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety, social anxiety and a range of childhood anxiety disorders), bullying and work-related stress issues.
With a Masters in Counselling, Postrgraduate studies in Psychology and Youth mental health, Christine has a special interest in counselling young people. Christine has extensive experience as a high school mental health facilitator, parenting and Anxiety programs. Christine also provides EAP counselling for the corporate clients.
For over 10 years, Christine has experience working across a range of psychological issues including depression, anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety, social anxiety and a range of childhood anxiety disorders), bullying and work-related stress issues.
With a Masters in Counselling, Postrgraduate studies in Psychology and Youth mental health, Christine has a special interest in counselling young people. Christine has extensive experience as a high school mental health facilitator, parenting and Anxiety programs. Christine also provides EAP counselling for the corporate clients.
(02) 8806 0035 View (02) 8806 0035
Photo of Leanda Chan, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Leanda Chan
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
St Leonards, NSW 2065
By unravelling these patterns, we see a reduction in anxious, depressive, and stress symptoms, among many other issues.
I am a warm and compassionate Registered Psychologist dedicated to providing evidence-based therapy with an approach that is attachment-based. I work collaboratively with clients to explore the underlying patterns that shape current relationships and self-perception, in order to foster meaningful and lasting change.
By unravelling these patterns, we see a reduction in anxious, depressive, and stress symptoms, among many other issues.
I am a warm and compassionate Registered Psychologist dedicated to providing evidence-based therapy with an approach that is attachment-based. I work collaboratively with clients to explore the underlying patterns that shape current relationships and self-perception, in order to foster meaningful and lasting change.
0406 631 476 View 0406 631 476
Jacqueline Lim
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I work with adults who are seeking to find meaning, direction and self growth in their lives. They may be going through stressful life events, major milestones in their relationships or health, changes of roles, and other life adversities.
I work with adults who are seeking to find meaning, direction and self growth in their lives. They may be going through stressful life events, major milestones in their relationships or health, changes of roles, and other life adversities.
(02) 8880 9015 View (02) 8880 9015
Photo of Jennifer Rathjen, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Jennifer Rathjen
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
I am a Clinical Psychologist with a wide range of experience. I primarily utilise enhanced Cognitive Behavioural Therapy to allow individuals to learn the skills needed to manage emotional distress, strengthen their ability to cope with future challenges and achieve personal, relationship and professional life goals. Additionally I offer longer term psychotherapy for more complex issues.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with a wide range of experience. I primarily utilise enhanced Cognitive Behavioural Therapy to allow individuals to learn the skills needed to manage emotional distress, strengthen their ability to cope with future challenges and achieve personal, relationship and professional life goals. Additionally I offer longer term psychotherapy for more complex issues.
(02) 9100 0650 View (02) 9100 0650
Photo of Jessica Koch, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Jessica Koch
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Jess also assists with anxiety, depression, stress, weight concerns, trauma, grief and loss.
Jess provides a safe, nurturing and respectful environment for each individual to explore their current challenges and gain insight into the background, maintenance and effect of these challenges. Jess holds the power of the client-therapist relationship in high regard and collaborates with her clients to reach their individual treatment goals and guide them towards living their best lives. Working from a holistic, strengths-based approach, Jess encourages each individual to utilise their strengths, build resilience and acquire practical skills to manage emotions, thoughts and actions.
Jess also assists with anxiety, depression, stress, weight concerns, trauma, grief and loss.
Jess provides a safe, nurturing and respectful environment for each individual to explore their current challenges and gain insight into the background, maintenance and effect of these challenges. Jess holds the power of the client-therapist relationship in high regard and collaborates with her clients to reach their individual treatment goals and guide them towards living their best lives. Working from a holistic, strengths-based approach, Jess encourages each individual to utilise their strengths, build resilience and acquire practical skills to manage emotions, thoughts and actions.
(02) 9159 6981 View (02) 9159 6981
Photo of Mitra Storey, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Mitra Storey
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
You might recognise yourself as someone who keeps attracting the same type of dynamics, or struggles with people-pleasing, self-criticism, or depression and anxiety.
Wherever you’re starting from, you’re welcome here. My style is supportive, honest, and gently direct. I care about what’s happening beneath the patterns — the old emotional templates, unmet needs, and protective strategies that once helped but now keep you stuck.
You might recognise yourself as someone who keeps attracting the same type of dynamics, or struggles with people-pleasing, self-criticism, or depression and anxiety.
Wherever you’re starting from, you’re welcome here. My style is supportive, honest, and gently direct. I care about what’s happening beneath the patterns — the old emotional templates, unmet needs, and protective strategies that once helped but now keep you stuck.
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Photo of Helen McWilliam, Social Worker, AMHSW
Helen McWilliam
Social Worker, AMHSW
St Leonards, NSW 2065
At the heart of my practice is a client-centred approach, where I work collaboratively with my clients to assess their individual needs and develop tailored solutions that align with their identified goals.
At the heart of my practice is a client-centred approach, where I work collaboratively with my clients to assess their individual needs and develop tailored solutions that align with their identified goals.
0493 650 047 View 0493 650 047
Photo of Melanie Khashadorian - My Appletree, Psychologist, MA
My Appletree
Psychologist, MA
St Leonards, NSW 2065
We are a group of therapists who see relationships to be an essential part of a healthy life. Be this with your romantic partner, your child, your siblings or parents or even your friends and colleagues. We work with individuals, couples and children in a compassionate, culturally aware, neuro-affirming approach.
We are a group of therapists who see relationships to be an essential part of a healthy life. Be this with your romantic partner, your child, your siblings or parents or even your friends and colleagues. We work with individuals, couples and children in a compassionate, culturally aware, neuro-affirming approach.
(02) 8000 1430 View (02) 8000 1430
Photo of Janette Whitfield - Prime Counselling Services, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Prime Counselling Services
Counsellor, ACA-L2
St Leonards, NSW 2065
I support individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship challenges, including those affected by domestic violence, narcissistic abuse, and borderline personality disorder (BPD).
I am a qualified counsellor who combines professional training with lived experience to support individuals to move from feeling overwhelmed or defined by past experiences toward empowerment and self-understanding. I offer a compassionate, non-judgemental space where clients feel heard, respected, and supported. My approach focuses on helping people reconnect with their sense of self, build confidence, strengthen boundaries, and develop healthier ways of coping and relating. I work respectfully with people of all faiths and backgrounds, and as a Christian, I also offer Christian counselling on request.
I support individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship challenges, including those affected by domestic violence, narcissistic abuse, and borderline personality disorder (BPD).
I am a qualified counsellor who combines professional training with lived experience to support individuals to move from feeling overwhelmed or defined by past experiences toward empowerment and self-understanding. I offer a compassionate, non-judgemental space where clients feel heard, respected, and supported. My approach focuses on helping people reconnect with their sense of self, build confidence, strengthen boundaries, and develop healthier ways of coping and relating. I work respectfully with people of all faiths and backgrounds, and as a Christian, I also offer Christian counselling on request.
(07) 2801 6670 View (07) 2801 6670
Photo of Gemma Illescas - Gemma | Sport & ADHD Psychologist , Psychologist, PsyBA General
Gemma | Sport & ADHD Psychologist
Psychologist, PsyBA General
St Leonards, NSW 2065
I also support individuals navigating anxiety, depression, autism, intellectual disability and behavioural challenges -always through a trauma-informed lens.
Sport & ADHD Psychology with practical tools for focus, growth and wellbeing. Whether you are an athlete or an ADHD brain, we help you train your mind like you train your body. We work with you to understand how your brain works, so you can manage emotions, stay focused and shop up at your best -day to day, and on and off the field.
I also support individuals navigating anxiety, depression, autism, intellectual disability and behavioural challenges -always through a trauma-informed lens.
Sport & ADHD Psychology with practical tools for focus, growth and wellbeing. Whether you are an athlete or an ADHD brain, we help you train your mind like you train your body. We work with you to understand how your brain works, so you can manage emotions, stay focused and shop up at your best -day to day, and on and off the field.
(02) 9158 6576 View (02) 9158 6576
Photo of Anne de Silva, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Anne de Silva
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
St Leonards, NSW 2065
You are infinitely more than your mind, so welcome to healing beyond words. As a Somatic Psychotherapist and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, I apply a body-oriented approach to growth and change. We meet your intuitive knowing and deep curiosity by actively tapping into the connection between mind and body to ease suffering, renegotiate trauma and build resilience. Through safe therapeutic relationship, loving presence, and gentle guidance, together we re-pattern unhelpful imprints through experiences in the present. When we invite all of ourselves to show up and heal in a safe space, our strength and capacity for joy expand.
You are infinitely more than your mind, so welcome to healing beyond words. As a Somatic Psychotherapist and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, I apply a body-oriented approach to growth and change. We meet your intuitive knowing and deep curiosity by actively tapping into the connection between mind and body to ease suffering, renegotiate trauma and build resilience. Through safe therapeutic relationship, loving presence, and gentle guidance, together we re-pattern unhelpful imprints through experiences in the present. When we invite all of ourselves to show up and heal in a safe space, our strength and capacity for joy expand.
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Photo of Jane Turner, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Jane Turner
Psychologist, PsyBA General
St Leonards, NSW 2065
I enjoy providing therapy to a diverse range of individuals and have experience treating substance use issues, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders, trauma, relationship issues, body image, eating disoders and challenges that arise from identity.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming and it can be difficult to see a way forward. We often spend our time ruminating on things we did or that happened to us in the past or we may spend time worrying about things that have yet to happen. This can prevent us from living as fully as possible. Engaging in therapy with a psychologist can offer fresh perspectives and equip you with valuable tools to navigate uncomfortable thoughts and feelings. I am a registered psychologist with a warm, empathic, and curious manner, who aims to collaborate with my clients to provide person-centered, evidence-based and trauma informed treatment.
I enjoy providing therapy to a diverse range of individuals and have experience treating substance use issues, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders, trauma, relationship issues, body image, eating disoders and challenges that arise from identity.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming and it can be difficult to see a way forward. We often spend our time ruminating on things we did or that happened to us in the past or we may spend time worrying about things that have yet to happen. This can prevent us from living as fully as possible. Engaging in therapy with a psychologist can offer fresh perspectives and equip you with valuable tools to navigate uncomfortable thoughts and feelings. I am a registered psychologist with a warm, empathic, and curious manner, who aims to collaborate with my clients to provide person-centered, evidence-based and trauma informed treatment.
0479 103 838 View 0479 103 838
Photo of Megan Tregilgas - The Authentic Counsellor , Counsellor, ACA-L2
The Authentic Counsellor
Counsellor, ACA-L2
2 Endorsed
St Leonards, NSW 2065
Are you ready for change? Do you struggle with relationship patterns - codependency, people-pleasing, communication, boundary issues, and self-esteem challenges? Are you navigating life transitions whilst having emotional regulation difficulties. Your goals include healthier, better relationships, improved communication, stronger boundaries, increased self-awareness, and greater self-esteem. You would love to feel more connected and understood, break free from unhealthy patterns, and create fulfilling relationships. You are ready to invest in yourself for a more authentic life.
Are you ready for change? Do you struggle with relationship patterns - codependency, people-pleasing, communication, boundary issues, and self-esteem challenges? Are you navigating life transitions whilst having emotional regulation difficulties. Your goals include healthier, better relationships, improved communication, stronger boundaries, increased self-awareness, and greater self-esteem. You would love to feel more connected and understood, break free from unhealthy patterns, and create fulfilling relationships. You are ready to invest in yourself for a more authentic life.
0478 832 568 View 0478 832 568
Photo of Dr Emma Keaveny Cook, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Emma Keaveny Cook
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
St Leonards, NSW 2065
Emma is an experienced Clinical Psychologist who enjoys working collaboratively with her clients to understand their current experiences and why they are seeking help. Emma is always keen to be guided by you as to how much we need to focus on the present and how much on the path that led you here.
Emma is an experienced Clinical Psychologist who enjoys working collaboratively with her clients to understand their current experiences and why they are seeking help. Emma is always keen to be guided by you as to how much we need to focus on the present and how much on the path that led you here.
(02) 8403 2765 View (02) 8403 2765
Photo of Anna Nicole Schwarz, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Anna Nicole Schwarz
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
St Leonards, NSW 2065
I have extensive experience also with Perinatal mental health, supporting women with antenatal and postnatal depression.
Anna Schwarz and her team are committed to supporting individuals and families in achieving optimal health and well-being. We are here to help you find ways through your challenges and to give you life skills to navigate when difficulties arise. We are here to walk beside you on this journey.
I have extensive experience also with Perinatal mental health, supporting women with antenatal and postnatal depression.
Anna Schwarz and her team are committed to supporting individuals and families in achieving optimal health and well-being. We are here to help you find ways through your challenges and to give you life skills to navigate when difficulties arise. We are here to walk beside you on this journey.
(02) 8000 1697 View (02) 8000 1697
Photo of Sharon Frances Cashel - WiseMind Clininical Psychology- Sharon , Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
WiseMind Clininical Psychology- Sharon
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
St Leonards, NSW 2065
I support clients struggling with depression, trauma, and relationship or family challenges.
My clients often come to me experiencing a wide range of challenges—such as mood and anxiety disorders, OCD, trauma and PTSD, personality disorders, eating disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, self-esteem, self-harm, grief, and family/parenting issues. I also carry expertise in supporting children and adolescents, and offering practical guidance to parents. Others may feel stuck, unmotivated, or uncertain about the future, and are seeking a safe space to understand and process what they’re going through.
I support clients struggling with depression, trauma, and relationship or family challenges.
My clients often come to me experiencing a wide range of challenges—such as mood and anxiety disorders, OCD, trauma and PTSD, personality disorders, eating disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, self-esteem, self-harm, grief, and family/parenting issues. I also carry expertise in supporting children and adolescents, and offering practical guidance to parents. Others may feel stuck, unmotivated, or uncertain about the future, and are seeking a safe space to understand and process what they’re going through.
0404 309 108 View 0404 309 108
Depression Therapists
What is the goal of therapy for depression?
Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognise and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?
Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?
Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioural activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?
Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?
Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.