Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Psychologists and Therapists in Stanmore, NSW

Pip Eve
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Stanmore, NSW 2048
Level 1 and Level 2 Schema Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, Ego-State Therapy, Polyvagal Theory and Somatic Therapy, Trauma-sensitive Yoga Therapy, Mindfulness, CBT, ACT, DBT, Circle of Security Parenting Program, Attachment informed therapy, Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics.
I am a warm and experienced Clinical Psychologist. I enjoy supporting people navigating complex/developmental trauma, anxiety, depression, stress/burnout, life transitions, relationship difficulties, the mind/body connection, chronic health conditions (e.g., chronic pain, cancer, autoimmune, hormonal conditions), and during the perinatal period (fertility concerns/pregnancy/postpartum). Individual telehealth sessions and online meditation groups currently available.
Level 1 and Level 2 Schema Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, Ego-State Therapy, Polyvagal Theory and Somatic Therapy, Trauma-sensitive Yoga Therapy, Mindfulness, CBT, ACT, DBT, Circle of Security Parenting Program, Attachment informed therapy, Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics.
I am a warm and experienced Clinical Psychologist. I enjoy supporting people navigating complex/developmental trauma, anxiety, depression, stress/burnout, life transitions, relationship difficulties, the mind/body connection, chronic health conditions (e.g., chronic pain, cancer, autoimmune, hormonal conditions), and during the perinatal period (fertility concerns/pregnancy/postpartum). Individual telehealth sessions and online meditation groups currently available.
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Michelle Stellini
Counsellor, ACA-L1
2 Endorsed
Stanmore, NSW 2048
With compassion, curiosity and deep listening, we will work collaboratively to explore areas of concern within a safe and non-judgmental space that fosters trust, reflection, learning, and growth. ​ My client-centered approach means that I will meet you exactly where you are at. Holding the view that you are the master of your experiences, my role is to lightly guide and support you in your journey using evidence-based interventions, as your equal.
With compassion, curiosity and deep listening, we will work collaboratively to explore areas of concern within a safe and non-judgmental space that fosters trust, reflection, learning, and growth. ​ My client-centered approach means that I will meet you exactly where you are at. Holding the view that you are the master of your experiences, my role is to lightly guide and support you in your journey using evidence-based interventions, as your equal.
(02) 8000 1039 View (02) 8000 1039
Raelene Hartman
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Stanmore, NSW 2048
Raelene is a Clinical Psychologist with over 28 years of experience in helping adults with a wide range of psychological presentations including trauma, anxiety and mood disorders, emotional dysregulation, adjustment issues, alcohol and drug addiction, relationship challenges, workplace stress/burnout and personality disorders. She has worked in a range of areas including community mental health, private practice and organisational settings.
Raelene is a Clinical Psychologist with over 28 years of experience in helping adults with a wide range of psychological presentations including trauma, anxiety and mood disorders, emotional dysregulation, adjustment issues, alcohol and drug addiction, relationship challenges, workplace stress/burnout and personality disorders. She has worked in a range of areas including community mental health, private practice and organisational settings.
(02) 9100 0905 View (02) 9100 0905
Lorena Portocarrero Koechlin
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Stanmore, NSW 2048
I provide personalised counselling for adults and young people to explore life’s challenges and work toward growth, purpose, and meaningful change. In a safe, collaborative space, you can be heard, reflect on your experiences, and move forward at your own pace.
I provide personalised counselling for adults and young people to explore life’s challenges and work toward growth, purpose, and meaningful change. In a safe, collaborative space, you can be heard, reflect on your experiences, and move forward at your own pace.
0487 714 063 View 0487 714 063
Sahar Jaafar
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
A little about me.. I describe myself as a warm and thoughtful clinician that values collaborative work in therapy. I have a deep curiosity for human behaviour and particular interests in anxiety and anxiety-related disorders. I have worked closely with adolescents and adults of various clinical presentations and in diverse practical settings ranging from public schools to correctional facilities.
A little about me.. I describe myself as a warm and thoughtful clinician that values collaborative work in therapy. I have a deep curiosity for human behaviour and particular interests in anxiety and anxiety-related disorders. I have worked closely with adolescents and adults of various clinical presentations and in diverse practical settings ranging from public schools to correctional facilities.
(02) 9100 0969 View (02) 9100 0969
Bradley Bowen
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Stanmore, NSW 2048
My experience and skills include managing a wide range of psychological problems, using a range of therapies including Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT) and Mindfulness.
I am honoured to be a 2024 Finalist for Psychologist of the Year at the Australian Allied Health Awards
My experience and skills include managing a wide range of psychological problems, using a range of therapies including Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT) and Mindfulness.
I am honoured to be a 2024 Finalist for Psychologist of the Year at the Australian Allied Health Awards
(02) 9564 3758 View (02) 9564 3758
Claudia Vayda
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Stanmore, NSW 2048
With over 25 years’ experience as a Psychologist and Family Therapist, I have worked both in crisis and outpatient settings with drug and alcohol, at-risk, and acute mental health populations as well as in private practice with couples, families, and individuals. My work now focusses on working together to facilitate and create sustained positive change with my clients, and to assist recovery from abuse, trauma, and adverse life events.
With over 25 years’ experience as a Psychologist and Family Therapist, I have worked both in crisis and outpatient settings with drug and alcohol, at-risk, and acute mental health populations as well as in private practice with couples, families, and individuals. My work now focusses on working together to facilitate and create sustained positive change with my clients, and to assist recovery from abuse, trauma, and adverse life events.
0493 838 567 View 0493 838 567
Michael Grunwald
Psychologist, Assoc MAPS
Serves Area
I am a Registered General Psychologist, Counsellor and Psychotherapist experienced in working with a wide range of common adult mental health concerns in an open, sincere and frank manner, including depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment and OCD disorders as well as various addictions (alcohol, drug, gambling, sex, internet) and recovery. As an older therapist, I bring decades of life experience into my counselling, with personal experience of many of the challenges facing clients, including trauma, grief/loss, neurodiversity (e.g. ADHD), sex/relationship/men's issues, workplace stress/bullying, hoarding, parenting and adoption.
I am a Registered General Psychologist, Counsellor and Psychotherapist experienced in working with a wide range of common adult mental health concerns in an open, sincere and frank manner, including depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment and OCD disorders as well as various addictions (alcohol, drug, gambling, sex, internet) and recovery. As an older therapist, I bring decades of life experience into my counselling, with personal experience of many of the challenges facing clients, including trauma, grief/loss, neurodiversity (e.g. ADHD), sex/relationship/men's issues, workplace stress/bullying, hoarding, parenting and adoption.
(02) 8806 0512 View (02) 8806 0512
A-Okay Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I am a client-centred, Neuroaffirming therapist who has experience with neurodivergence, children / adolescents, trauma backgrounds (EMDR Level 1) and Worker's Compensation / CTP. I also work with couples using the Gottman methodology (Gottman Level 2).
I am a client-centred, Neuroaffirming therapist who has experience with neurodivergence, children / adolescents, trauma backgrounds (EMDR Level 1) and Worker's Compensation / CTP. I also work with couples using the Gottman methodology (Gottman Level 2).
(02) 8074 5401 View (02) 8074 5401
Sara Bertolini at 'Some Therapy' EMDR, RI-EMDR
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I am Registered Psychologist with a strong commitment to social justice and supporting individuals from all walks of life. I believe therapy should be inclusive, culturally responsive, and grounded in both compassion and evidence-based care. I welcome people of all cultural backgrounds, gender identities, sexual orientations, relationship structures, and lived experiences, and I am committed to providing an affirming and non-judgmental space. Whether you are navigating trauma, anxiety, relationship challenges, or longstanding patterns that feel difficult to shift, you deserve a space where you feel safe, respected, and understood.
I am Registered Psychologist with a strong commitment to social justice and supporting individuals from all walks of life. I believe therapy should be inclusive, culturally responsive, and grounded in both compassion and evidence-based care. I welcome people of all cultural backgrounds, gender identities, sexual orientations, relationship structures, and lived experiences, and I am committed to providing an affirming and non-judgmental space. Whether you are navigating trauma, anxiety, relationship challenges, or longstanding patterns that feel difficult to shift, you deserve a space where you feel safe, respected, and understood.
(02) 8000 1814 View (02) 8000 1814
John Ahern
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I am also trained in CBT, DBT, ACT, CFT & Schema Therapy.
I focus on EMDR working with nightmares and distressing memories. My strengths are working with stress, trauma and relationship issues, one simple step at a time. If you have past events or stress holding you back, please feel free to reach out for help. I offer a initial consultation call too. Let's schedule a time that works for you to chat and start from there. My therapy style is to provide a supportive, warm, non judgemental space that leads to long lasting positive change for you.
I am also trained in CBT, DBT, ACT, CFT & Schema Therapy.
I focus on EMDR working with nightmares and distressing memories. My strengths are working with stress, trauma and relationship issues, one simple step at a time. If you have past events or stress holding you back, please feel free to reach out for help. I offer a initial consultation call too. Let's schedule a time that works for you to chat and start from there. My therapy style is to provide a supportive, warm, non judgemental space that leads to long lasting positive change for you.
0410 009 554 View 0410 009 554
Mackie Demirel
Counsellor, ACA-L2
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Typically, your sessions are built around the modality of a Humanistic/Person Centered approach, as well as ACT ( Acceptance and Commitment Therapy).
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.
Typically, your sessions are built around the modality of a Humanistic/Person Centered approach, as well as ACT ( Acceptance and Commitment Therapy).
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
Jase Dimos
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I draw on CBT, ACT, EMDR, and IFS to tailor evidence-based therapy to each client’s needs.
Finding the right fit with a psychologist is not only important, but sometimes daunting. My name is Jase, and I opened Psychology in Balance with the vision of creating a space where clients can be well understood and motivated to become the best version of themselves - for themselves. I work with individuals and couples on a range of concerns, including anxiety, complex trauma, ADHD, relationship issues, emotional burnout, acute stress, attachment injuries, emotion regulation difficulties, and a lack of meaning or purpose. My practice is LGBTQIA+ informed and welcoming to all nationalities and spiritual dispositions.
I draw on CBT, ACT, EMDR, and IFS to tailor evidence-based therapy to each client’s needs.
Finding the right fit with a psychologist is not only important, but sometimes daunting. My name is Jase, and I opened Psychology in Balance with the vision of creating a space where clients can be well understood and motivated to become the best version of themselves - for themselves. I work with individuals and couples on a range of concerns, including anxiety, complex trauma, ADHD, relationship issues, emotional burnout, acute stress, attachment injuries, emotion regulation difficulties, and a lack of meaning or purpose. My practice is LGBTQIA+ informed and welcoming to all nationalities and spiritual dispositions.
0468 375 150 View 0468 375 150
Sophie Kearns
Counsellor, PACFA
Serves Area
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or aware that something in your life isn’t quite right, you don’t have to navigate it on your own. Sometimes the experience is clear - stress, anxiety, low mood, or a difficult life transition. At other times, it can feel like something harder to name: a sense of disconnection, of being unsettled or out of alignment, maybe a quiet inner signal - a soul cry - asking for attention, care, and understanding. I have particular interest areas in supporting women, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and 20 and 30 somethings.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or aware that something in your life isn’t quite right, you don’t have to navigate it on your own. Sometimes the experience is clear - stress, anxiety, low mood, or a difficult life transition. At other times, it can feel like something harder to name: a sense of disconnection, of being unsettled or out of alignment, maybe a quiet inner signal - a soul cry - asking for attention, care, and understanding. I have particular interest areas in supporting women, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and 20 and 30 somethings.
0416 823 664 View 0416 823 664
Patrick Watts
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
These include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), and mindfulness-integrated therapies.
Patrick works with adults experiencing a diverse range of issues, including low mood and depression, along with anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety, OCD, social anxiety and phobias. He can also assist with adjustment and moving forward following difficult life events. He strives to bring a warm, compassionate and genuine approach to therapy, and building a supportive relationship is at the heart of his work. His experience means he is well-equipped to support those moving through the challenges of life whilst seeking to build meaning and purpose along the way.
These include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), and mindfulness-integrated therapies.
Patrick works with adults experiencing a diverse range of issues, including low mood and depression, along with anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety, OCD, social anxiety and phobias. He can also assist with adjustment and moving forward following difficult life events. He strives to bring a warm, compassionate and genuine approach to therapy, and building a supportive relationship is at the heart of his work. His experience means he is well-equipped to support those moving through the challenges of life whilst seeking to build meaning and purpose along the way.
(02) 9100 0206 View (02) 9100 0206
Sarah Montgomery
Psychologist, PsyBA General
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Using evidence-based approaches including CBT, ACT and systemic therapy, I help clients strengthen emotion regulation, resilience, coping skills and self-efficacy through values-based goals.
I'm a warm, approachable psychologist with over 20 years of clinical experience across tertiary referral and private practice settings. I quickly build genuine rapport and enjoy helping clients navigate life's challenges, fostering resilience, confidence, and lasting wellbeing. I specialise in supporting children, adolescents, and young adults with anxiety, OCD, ADHD, autism, neurodivergence, social and emotional difficulties, behavioural challenges, adjustment disorders, fears and phobias, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and interpersonal concerns.
Using evidence-based approaches including CBT, ACT and systemic therapy, I help clients strengthen emotion regulation, resilience, coping skills and self-efficacy through values-based goals.
I'm a warm, approachable psychologist with over 20 years of clinical experience across tertiary referral and private practice settings. I quickly build genuine rapport and enjoy helping clients navigate life's challenges, fostering resilience, confidence, and lasting wellbeing. I specialise in supporting children, adolescents, and young adults with anxiety, OCD, ADHD, autism, neurodivergence, social and emotional difficulties, behavioural challenges, adjustment disorders, fears and phobias, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and interpersonal concerns.
(02) 9100 0132 View (02) 9100 0132
Patrick McGrath
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I am a clinical psychologist who works across a variety of presentations including anxiety and mood disorders. I hope to bring a warm, empathic and authentic approach to the issues that people bring to therapy. I recognise the investment that people make when they share their difficulties with someone and commit to therapy, and work to honour that commitment by delivering evidence based treatments, that are tailored to a persons needs. I’ve benefitted greatly from the experience of working across a range of inpatient and outpatient hospital settings.
I am a clinical psychologist who works across a variety of presentations including anxiety and mood disorders. I hope to bring a warm, empathic and authentic approach to the issues that people bring to therapy. I recognise the investment that people make when they share their difficulties with someone and commit to therapy, and work to honour that commitment by delivering evidence based treatments, that are tailored to a persons needs. I’ve benefitted greatly from the experience of working across a range of inpatient and outpatient hospital settings.
(02) 8074 5482 View (02) 8074 5482
George Turnure Clinical Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Serves Area
I have a non-judgemental and patient approach and use a variety of approaches including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Mindfulness.
I'm a clinical psychologist who works with people who are hoping to cope better with strong moods such as sadness, low mood or depression, anger or if feeling constantly worried, nervous or anxious. Working together we will find out how this has developed and why it hasn't gone away. In this way we can gain an understanding of the issue and develop skills and strategies to cope better right now, and to manage and/or prevent these issues from returning in the future.
I have a non-judgemental and patient approach and use a variety of approaches including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Mindfulness.
I'm a clinical psychologist who works with people who are hoping to cope better with strong moods such as sadness, low mood or depression, anger or if feeling constantly worried, nervous or anxious. Working together we will find out how this has developed and why it hasn't gone away. In this way we can gain an understanding of the issue and develop skills and strategies to cope better right now, and to manage and/or prevent these issues from returning in the future.
(02) 9053 4659 View (02) 9053 4659
The Younger Years
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
We specialise in supporting the mental health of young people and their families from the ages of 0 - 25 years, that is, from the perinatal period right through to early adulthood. We pride ourselves on only working within this age group focusing on offering a wholistic and individualised approach to our patient’s care. We provide effective, evidence based assessment and treatment for anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, behavioural, neurodevelopmental, early childhood and eating issues. We also provide psychometric assessments which can be a way to determine a child or young person's strengths and needs.
We specialise in supporting the mental health of young people and their families from the ages of 0 - 25 years, that is, from the perinatal period right through to early adulthood. We pride ourselves on only working within this age group focusing on offering a wholistic and individualised approach to our patient’s care. We provide effective, evidence based assessment and treatment for anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, behavioural, neurodevelopmental, early childhood and eating issues. We also provide psychometric assessments which can be a way to determine a child or young person's strengths and needs.
(02) 9100 0582 View (02) 9100 0582
WG Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
An eclectic practitioner he is able to use a number of models where appropriate in particular Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT) , Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy(CBT), Narrative Therapy and Brief Therapy.
Wayne Gillespie is a Registered Psychologist with over 20yrs experience. In addition to his private practice, Wayne worked for 19yrs as a student counsellor/psychologist at the University of New South Wales and National Institute of Dramatic Arts (NIDA). Wayne specialises in providing counselling/coaching for a range of presentations including: Mood Disorders, Anxiety, Drug and Alcohol, Adjustment Problems; Relationship Problems, Trauma incidents, Bereavement; Academic Difficulties (e.g procrastination and perfectionism), Career Transition, Creativity Issues, Creative Arts/Entertainment Psychology and Executive Coaching.
An eclectic practitioner he is able to use a number of models where appropriate in particular Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT) , Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy(CBT), Narrative Therapy and Brief Therapy.
Wayne Gillespie is a Registered Psychologist with over 20yrs experience. In addition to his private practice, Wayne worked for 19yrs as a student counsellor/psychologist at the University of New South Wales and National Institute of Dramatic Arts (NIDA). Wayne specialises in providing counselling/coaching for a range of presentations including: Mood Disorders, Anxiety, Drug and Alcohol, Adjustment Problems; Relationship Problems, Trauma incidents, Bereavement; Academic Difficulties (e.g procrastination and perfectionism), Career Transition, Creativity Issues, Creative Arts/Entertainment Psychology and Executive Coaching.
(02) 9100 0170 View (02) 9100 0170

See more therapy options for Stanmore

Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists
How does acceptance and commitment therapy work?
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy encourages a person to listen to their self-talk. A person’s inner dialog can be indicative of how they treat themselves. ACT also encourages self-compassion; this can lead to a better understanding of negative thought patterns and emotional states. This understanding can then lead the individual to needed behavior change.

What are the goals of acceptance and commitment therapy?
The goal of acceptance and commitment is to expand a person’s psychological flexibility, a trait that encourages an individual to live in the present moment and to accept all their thoughts, feelings, and emotions, even ones that are difficult such as sadness and anxiety. In ACT, this acceptance is congruent with the individual’s values and beliefs.

Does acceptance and commitment therapy work for depression?
Acceptance and commitment therapy is effective for depression because it allows the individual to view their discomfort and suffering differently. Depressive feelings about relationship heartaches, for example, are a part of life. A despondent person learns to let go of their struggles and instead view their painful thoughts and feelings with compassion. This will lead the individual toward positive change.

How long are people typically in acceptance and commitment therapy?
A typical acceptance and commitment therapy session is 50 minutes long with one session per week. Treatment for common problems such as anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties can last between eight weeks to four months. However, more severe cases may require more than one session a week and/or a longer time frame for treatment.