Body Image Psychologists and Therapists in Stanmore, NSW

Photo of Amber Rules, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Amber Rules
Psychotherapist, PACFA
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you struggling with substances, gambling, smoking or other patterns that feel impossible to change? Or perhaps you're affected by someone else's addictive behaviours? As an experienced addiction support specialist, I help you understand these patterns and manage the chaos they create. Together, we'll combine practical education, evidence-based strategies, and counselling to help you make choices that align with the life you want. I also work with clients experiencing challenges including ADHD, chronic pain, relationship difficulties, and complex mental health diagnoses.
Are you struggling with substances, gambling, smoking or other patterns that feel impossible to change? Or perhaps you're affected by someone else's addictive behaviours? As an experienced addiction support specialist, I help you understand these patterns and manage the chaos they create. Together, we'll combine practical education, evidence-based strategies, and counselling to help you make choices that align with the life you want. I also work with clients experiencing challenges including ADHD, chronic pain, relationship difficulties, and complex mental health diagnoses.
(02) 9158 6064 View (02) 9158 6064
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 Patrick Watts, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Patrick Watts
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
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.
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
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 Patrick McGrath, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
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
Photo of Sarah Van De Velde, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Sarah Van De Velde
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with adults who have often felt misunderstood, overwhelmed, or stuck, or who feel their needs may not have been fully met by previous support. Common difficulties include trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, substance use, anger and emotional dysregulation, relationship difficulties, ADHD and grief. I also work with people seeking to understand and change behaviours that have at times affected their relationships, safety, wellbeing, or resulted in contact with legal systems.
I work with adults who have often felt misunderstood, overwhelmed, or stuck, or who feel their needs may not have been fully met by previous support. Common difficulties include trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, substance use, anger and emotional dysregulation, relationship difficulties, ADHD and grief. I also work with people seeking to understand and change behaviours that have at times affected their relationships, safety, wellbeing, or resulted in contact with legal systems.
0400 296 502 View 0400 296 502
Photo of Tamara Pallos - Couples Counselling Inner West Sydney, Counsellor, PACFA
Couples Counselling Inner West Sydney
Counsellor, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Tamara Pallos and my area of expertise is relationship therapy. I work both with couples, wanting to resolve relationship difficulties, and with individuals looking to overcome blocks to having more fulfilling relationships. I can help with the full range of couple relationship problems, including conflict and communication issues, affairs or other breaches of trust, distance in the relationship, sexual difficulties, and issues with in-laws or extended family. I also support individuals to build thriving relationships through developing healthier patterns of relating.
Hi, I'm Tamara Pallos and my area of expertise is relationship therapy. I work both with couples, wanting to resolve relationship difficulties, and with individuals looking to overcome blocks to having more fulfilling relationships. I can help with the full range of couple relationship problems, including conflict and communication issues, affairs or other breaches of trust, distance in the relationship, sexual difficulties, and issues with in-laws or extended family. I also support individuals to build thriving relationships through developing healthier patterns of relating.
(02) 9100 0964 View (02) 9100 0964
Photo of Fernanda Reschke - Through The Woods Therapy - Fernanda Reschke , Psychotherapist, PACFA
Through The Woods Therapy - Fernanda Reschke
Psychotherapist, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! have a Bachelor Degree in Naturopathy and over fifteen years of experience as a movement-oriented therapist. Using the principles of Gestalt Therapy, I offer a relational and embodied approach to my clients. I started my therapeutic journey as a client so I appreciate the courage it takes to make the first step. I understand how it feels to struggle and feel stuck. I believe that therapy is about exploring, discovering, experimenting and being vulnerable. I am originally from Brazil and I am particularly inspired by other cultures and beliefs. The process of healing is a journey that looks different for everyone.
Hello! have a Bachelor Degree in Naturopathy and over fifteen years of experience as a movement-oriented therapist. Using the principles of Gestalt Therapy, I offer a relational and embodied approach to my clients. I started my therapeutic journey as a client so I appreciate the courage it takes to make the first step. I understand how it feels to struggle and feel stuck. I believe that therapy is about exploring, discovering, experimenting and being vulnerable. I am originally from Brazil and I am particularly inspired by other cultures and beliefs. The process of healing is a journey that looks different for everyone.
(02) 9100 0726 View (02) 9100 0726
Photo of Anthony Arpino - Anthony Arpino (Proud Place Therapy), Counsellor, ACA-L3
Anthony Arpino (Proud Place Therapy)
Counsellor, ACA-L3
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I provide therapeutic support to individuals (aged 16+) from the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent (Autism, ADHD, Tourette Syndrome, etc.) communities in the Sydney area (in-person/online) and Australia-wide (online only). I identify with both of these communities myself and can help with stress, anxiety (including panic attacks) & depression management, relationship challenges, identity issues (including sexual orientation and gender identity), confidence and self-esteem, big life transitions and changes.
I provide therapeutic support to individuals (aged 16+) from the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent (Autism, ADHD, Tourette Syndrome, etc.) communities in the Sydney area (in-person/online) and Australia-wide (online only). I identify with both of these communities myself and can help with stress, anxiety (including panic attacks) & depression management, relationship challenges, identity issues (including sexual orientation and gender identity), confidence and self-esteem, big life transitions and changes.
(02) 9100 0554 View (02) 9100 0554
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 Sonia Scali, Counsellor, PACFA
Sonia Scali
Counsellor, PACFA
Serves Area
Welcome, I’m Sonia, a warm, compassionate and open-minded counsellor. My approach is trauma-informed, collaborative and strength-based, listening and tailoring my approach around your needs. My aim is to help you manage life's challenges with self-compassion and self-kindness. I work with both adults and adolescents, specialising in prolonged trauma, PTSD and C-PTSD, domestic and family violence, anxiety, depression, challenges with emotional regulation, difficult life transitions and family dynamics. Supporting clients with communication and interpersonal relationships is a special interest of mine.
Welcome, I’m Sonia, a warm, compassionate and open-minded counsellor. My approach is trauma-informed, collaborative and strength-based, listening and tailoring my approach around your needs. My aim is to help you manage life's challenges with self-compassion and self-kindness. I work with both adults and adolescents, specialising in prolonged trauma, PTSD and C-PTSD, domestic and family violence, anxiety, depression, challenges with emotional regulation, difficult life transitions and family dynamics. Supporting clients with communication and interpersonal relationships is a special interest of mine.
(02) 9100 0424 View (02) 9100 0424

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lisa Stuart, Social Worker, AASW
Lisa Stuart
Social Worker, AASW
1 Endorsed
Umina Beach, NSW 2257
I work with people who feel unhappy, disconnected, overwhelmed, or caught in patterns that no longer serve them. This might show up as relationship difficulties, people-pleasing, feeling out of control, or a nagging feeling that you're not enough. Together, we work to understand your experiences and build coping skills and strategies to help you move forward. Clients often report greater self-awareness, feeling more connected to themselves, and approaching life with more choice and self-compassion. Throughout this process, I bring warmth, honesty, and humour to our work, creating a space that feels safe, validating, and supportive.
I work with people who feel unhappy, disconnected, overwhelmed, or caught in patterns that no longer serve them. This might show up as relationship difficulties, people-pleasing, feeling out of control, or a nagging feeling that you're not enough. Together, we work to understand your experiences and build coping skills and strategies to help you move forward. Clients often report greater self-awareness, feeling more connected to themselves, and approaching life with more choice and self-compassion. Throughout this process, I bring warmth, honesty, and humour to our work, creating a space that feels safe, validating, and supportive.
(02) 4307 5711 View (02) 4307 5711
Photo of Sam Forbes, Social Worker, AASW
Sam Forbes
Social Worker, AASW
Sydney, NSW 2000
What do you want to change in your life? Counselling can help. I've been a therapist for 33 years and I support people to make significant changes in their lives and relationships. There's nothing you can't overcome. I specialise in complex trauma and relationship counselling, and I work with people affected by trauma, child abuse & sexual or domestic violence, mental health issues, racism, disability, bullying, critical incidences, crime, grief and bereavement, including for companion animals/pets. I'm queer and LGBTIQ, trans, NB, poly, ENM, sex work & kink/BDSM affirming. I am trained in EMDR & EMDR 2.0. ONLINE & In person.
What do you want to change in your life? Counselling can help. I've been a therapist for 33 years and I support people to make significant changes in their lives and relationships. There's nothing you can't overcome. I specialise in complex trauma and relationship counselling, and I work with people affected by trauma, child abuse & sexual or domestic violence, mental health issues, racism, disability, bullying, critical incidences, crime, grief and bereavement, including for companion animals/pets. I'm queer and LGBTIQ, trans, NB, poly, ENM, sex work & kink/BDSM affirming. I am trained in EMDR & EMDR 2.0. ONLINE & In person.
(02) 8074 5968 View (02) 8074 5968
Photo of Jodie Gale, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Jodie Gale
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Manly, NSW 2095
You may look like you’re coping, but inside you feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or not good enough. You might turn to food for comfort, control, or relief, then feel shame, guilt, or self-criticism afterwards. Many of the women I work with carry the impact of early trauma, emotional neglect, or difficult mother–daughter relationships that continue to shape how they feel about themselves. Some feel stuck in patterns they don’t understand, while others are quietly asking, “who am I, really?” and longing for a deeper, more meaningful connection with themselves, their body, and their inner world.
You may look like you’re coping, but inside you feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or not good enough. You might turn to food for comfort, control, or relief, then feel shame, guilt, or self-criticism afterwards. Many of the women I work with carry the impact of early trauma, emotional neglect, or difficult mother–daughter relationships that continue to shape how they feel about themselves. Some feel stuck in patterns they don’t understand, while others are quietly asking, “who am I, really?” and longing for a deeper, more meaningful connection with themselves, their body, and their inner world.
(02) 8294 7627 View (02) 8294 7627
Photo of Kylie Andersen, Counsellor, MC, PACFA
Kylie Andersen
Counsellor, MC, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Ashfield, NSW 2131
Maybe you struggle with your body image, or you’re caught in a cycle with food that leaves you feeling out of control.
I work with sensitive, thoughtful adults who feel stuck: in their relationship with food or their body, in relationships with others, in work, or in life more broadly. My clients often know something needs to change, but haven't been able to get there through willpower or self-help alone. We slow things down and get curious about what's going on underneath.
Maybe you struggle with your body image, or you’re caught in a cycle with food that leaves you feeling out of control.
I work with sensitive, thoughtful adults who feel stuck: in their relationship with food or their body, in relationships with others, in work, or in life more broadly. My clients often know something needs to change, but haven't been able to get there through willpower or self-help alone. We slow things down and get curious about what's going on underneath.
(02) 9158 6206 View (02) 9158 6206
Photo of Amy Pedersen, Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L2
Amy Pedersen
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L2
Sydney, NSW 2000
I work with adults and couples in Sydney who are feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, relationship challenges, identity questions, or significant life transitions. You may feel stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, disconnected from yourself or others, or unsure how to move forward, even though you’ve tried to cope on your own. I offer a warm, thoughtful, and trauma-informed space where we can slow things down, make sense of what’s happening for you, and gently work toward meaningful change. Therapy with me is collaborative and respectful of your pace, values, and lived experience.
I work with adults and couples in Sydney who are feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, relationship challenges, identity questions, or significant life transitions. You may feel stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, disconnected from yourself or others, or unsure how to move forward, even though you’ve tried to cope on your own. I offer a warm, thoughtful, and trauma-informed space where we can slow things down, make sense of what’s happening for you, and gently work toward meaningful change. Therapy with me is collaborative and respectful of your pace, values, and lived experience.
(03) 4160 2623 View (03) 4160 2623
Photo of Skye Elizabeth Hudson - Skye E Hudson Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Skye E Hudson Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Online Only
I’m a trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming psychotherapist who works from an Internal Family Systems (IFS) lens. With a background in Gestalt therapy and a personal understanding of AUDHD and complex trauma, I offer compassionate, creative support for sensitive souls, neurodivergent adults, overwhelmed parents, and anyone navigating life transitions or self-doubt.
I’m a trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming psychotherapist who works from an Internal Family Systems (IFS) lens. With a background in Gestalt therapy and a personal understanding of AUDHD and complex trauma, I offer compassionate, creative support for sensitive souls, neurodivergent adults, overwhelmed parents, and anyone navigating life transitions or self-doubt.
(02) 5604 8849 View (02) 5604 8849
Photo of Suzanne Elizabeth Byrne, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Suzanne Elizabeth Byrne
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
St Leonards, NSW 2065
Suzanne brings years of experience in corporate settings to her work as a psychologist. After a career spent leading, supporting, and training others for success, she has followed her passion for helping clients of all ages to live a rich, full, and meaningful life. Suzanne takes a holistic, strengths-based approach to therapy and enjoys inspiring clients to overcome their challenges and achieve personal goals.
Suzanne brings years of experience in corporate settings to her work as a psychologist. After a career spent leading, supporting, and training others for success, she has followed her passion for helping clients of all ages to live a rich, full, and meaningful life. Suzanne takes a holistic, strengths-based approach to therapy and enjoys inspiring clients to overcome their challenges and achieve personal goals.
(02) 9100 0407 View (02) 9100 0407
Photo of Kodi Duruchukwu, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Prov
Kodi Duruchukwu
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Prov
Newtown, NSW 2042
Hi I'm Kodi (They/She), I'm a compassionate and dedicated Provisional Psychologist with a strong commitment to supporting clients from CLAD and LGBTQIA+ backgrounds. As a queer, and neurodivergent clinician, my lived experience within the community aids me to innately empathise with experiences clients may be navigating. My experience encompasses a broad array of client presentations, including ADHD, gender identity, gender dysphoria, dissociative disorders, mood disorders, family and relational conflicts, complex trauma/abuse.
Hi I'm Kodi (They/She), I'm a compassionate and dedicated Provisional Psychologist with a strong commitment to supporting clients from CLAD and LGBTQIA+ backgrounds. As a queer, and neurodivergent clinician, my lived experience within the community aids me to innately empathise with experiences clients may be navigating. My experience encompasses a broad array of client presentations, including ADHD, gender identity, gender dysphoria, dissociative disorders, mood disorders, family and relational conflicts, complex trauma/abuse.
(02) 9159 6657 View (02) 9159 6657
Photo of Alex Galeazzi, Counsellor
Alex Galeazzi
Counsellor
Woolloomooloo, NSW 2011
Are you seeking guidance and support on your journey of self-discovery and healing? Are you dealing with fears, challenges, and anxieties, as well as trauma, shame, and abandonment issues? Open to exploring your authentic self, do you value feeling seen, heard, and acknowledged in sessions? Are you committed to actively participating in talk therapy, delving into your childhood attachments and past experiences to gain deeper understanding? Do you prioritize your emotional well-being and are willing to engage in a safe and confidential therapeutic environment to address your needs and foster personal growth?
Are you seeking guidance and support on your journey of self-discovery and healing? Are you dealing with fears, challenges, and anxieties, as well as trauma, shame, and abandonment issues? Open to exploring your authentic self, do you value feeling seen, heard, and acknowledged in sessions? Are you committed to actively participating in talk therapy, delving into your childhood attachments and past experiences to gain deeper understanding? Do you prioritize your emotional well-being and are willing to engage in a safe and confidential therapeutic environment to address your needs and foster personal growth?
(02) 9100 0545 View (02) 9100 0545

See more therapy options for Stanmore

Body Image Therapists
How does body image affect mental health?
Poor body image can influence mental health because it can reduce self-esteem and decrease functioning in other areas of one's life. Negative body image may hinder someone's ability to perform daily tasks, including professional and social responsibilities, because they may feel self-conscious or shame surrounding their appearance; a desire to change one's body as a result of negative body image can also trigger behaviors such as extreme dieting, excessive exercise, or obsessive social media comparison. Poor body image is associated with a number of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, although many people experience negative body image even in the absence of meeting the diagnostic criteria for any mental health disorders.

What does it mean to have a positive body image?
Body image refers to how one internally perceives their appearance and internally "talks" to themself about their body. Positive body image is therefore indicative of a positive perception of one's self and positive internal self-talk that underscores one's strengths. People who have good body image often have higher self-esteem, self-worth, and self-confidence, and they also often recognise how external factors, such as social media or relationship patterns, can influence body image. While body image can change at different life stages and in response to various triggers, practicing self-acceptance and a body-positive mindset can help maintain a more stable sense of positive body image.

Is body image the same as self-esteem?
Body image and self-esteem are often related, but they are distinct concepts. Self-esteem is a broader term that can be shaped by a number of factors outside of body image, including one's functioning at school or in the workplace; it refers to one's capacity to handle various life challenges. Poor body image can be one way in which one's self-esteem is reduced. Reduced self-esteem as a result of poor body image can cause individuals to feel negative about their appearance, withdraw from social interactions, and/or rely on harmful behaviours as a coping mechanism. A "body positive" approach to body image therapy is therefore often used to encourage a more positive view of one's self and thus encourage better self-esteem.

What type of therapy is best to foster a positive body image?
The type of therapy best suited to improve body image depends on each person, as there is not a single therapy specific to body image improvement. That said, many individuals with poor body image benefit from therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based therapy. CBT can be used to help challenge distorted or negative thoughts about one's body, while ACT and mindfulness practices can facilitate a more positive body image through self-acceptance and identification of one's personal strengths. Regardless of treatment type, clients should look for body image therapists who encourage the development of a sense of self outside of their external appearance and help clients reduce unwanted behaviours developed as a result of poor self-esteem, such as dieting or disordered eating patterns.