Addiction Psychologists and Therapists in Sydney Olympic Park, NSW

Dijana Dzambic De Franca
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
Has alcohol, drug use, gambling or pornography begun affecting your relationship, mental health, finances or future?
I provide practical, evidence-based psychotherapy for adolescents, adults and couples. Together we can work on addiction recovery, relapse prevention, behaviour change, emotional regulation and healthier decisions. I also support depression, anxiety, trauma, self-harm and suicidal thoughts, while helping couples rebuild trust and connection.
Has alcohol, drug use, gambling or pornography begun affecting your relationship, mental health, finances or future?
I provide practical, evidence-based psychotherapy for adolescents, adults and couples. Together we can work on addiction recovery, relapse prevention, behaviour change, emotional regulation and healthier decisions. I also support depression, anxiety, trauma, self-harm and suicidal thoughts, while helping couples rebuild trust and connection.
(02) 8609 3067 View (02) 8609 3067
Osas Michaels
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialise in supporting individuals navigating complex mental health presentations, including depression, anxiety, trauma responses, substance use concerns, and life transitions.
Finding your path to mental wellness shouldn't be a journey you take alone. I believe that true healing happens when we create space for both understanding and growth, recognising that each person's experience is unique and deserving of compassionate, individualised care. With over a decade of specialised experience in mental health nursing across acute care, community settings, and forensic environments, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of evidence-based, person-centered treatment.
I specialise in supporting individuals navigating complex mental health presentations, including depression, anxiety, trauma responses, substance use concerns, and life transitions.
Finding your path to mental wellness shouldn't be a journey you take alone. I believe that true healing happens when we create space for both understanding and growth, recognising that each person's experience is unique and deserving of compassionate, individualised care. With over a decade of specialised experience in mental health nursing across acute care, community settings, and forensic environments, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of evidence-based, person-centered treatment.
(02) 4703 7625 View (02) 4703 7625
Michelle Pal
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA Endorsed
Online Only
In therapy I can help with mental health and relationship issues such as: confidence and assertiveness; reducing worry and negative thinking; having better relationships; managing low moods or mood swings; overcome imposter syndrome; or decrease sexual dysunction. I treat clinical issues such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar. I also work with adults on relationship issues and with couples using the Gottman Model of Couples Therapy. I am also passionate about social justice & regularly provide assessments & reports for immigration & criminal court proceedings (including bail application, S14 applications, and sentencing reports).
In therapy I can help with mental health and relationship issues such as: confidence and assertiveness; reducing worry and negative thinking; having better relationships; managing low moods or mood swings; overcome imposter syndrome; or decrease sexual dysunction. I treat clinical issues such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar. I also work with adults on relationship issues and with couples using the Gottman Model of Couples Therapy. I am also passionate about social justice & regularly provide assessments & reports for immigration & criminal court proceedings (including bail application, S14 applications, and sentencing reports).
(02) 8294 8062 View (02) 8294 8062
Divya Prabakrishnan
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Hi, my name is Divya, and I am a registered psychologist with a passion to support and empower individuals in their mental health journey. Our past traumas and experiences shape how we view and interact with the world, often influencing our responses and emotions. Without proper support, we may develop unhelpful coping mechanisms, leading to unresolved pain and making life overwhelming. This can manifest as anxiety, depression, interpersonal conflicts, low self-esteem, etc. With these inner-conflicts, seeking to start understanding yourself better and learning to adopt healthier coping skills is a brave step to transform and heal.
Hi, my name is Divya, and I am a registered psychologist with a passion to support and empower individuals in their mental health journey. Our past traumas and experiences shape how we view and interact with the world, often influencing our responses and emotions. Without proper support, we may develop unhelpful coping mechanisms, leading to unresolved pain and making life overwhelming. This can manifest as anxiety, depression, interpersonal conflicts, low self-esteem, etc. With these inner-conflicts, seeking to start understanding yourself better and learning to adopt healthier coping skills is a brave step to transform and heal.
(02) 8000 1537 View (02) 8000 1537

More Therapists Nearby

Pat Wood-Collier
Counsellor, MA, CCAA
Serves Area
I work with various addictions and traumas.
My experience is in trauma, addiction and crisis. I evaluate what the client needs and then together with them and will use various different therapies that will help them begin to manage and know themselves.
I work with various addictions and traumas.
My experience is in trauma, addiction and crisis. I evaluate what the client needs and then together with them and will use various different therapies that will help them begin to manage and know themselves.
(02) 5504 5434 View (02) 5504 5434
Dynamic Healing Counselling Service
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Ingleburn, NSW 2565
I’ve spent over a decade working in trauma- addiction across public and private settings.
If you've been struggling to manage and still feeling stuck, I work with people who need more than surface-level strategies. My focus is complex trauma, PTSD, long-term recovery, and the impact of systems, relationships, and life events that leave lasting consequences. My approach is practical, grounded, and centred on restoring stability, safety, and agency. I’m SIRA registered and support NDIS (self-managed or plan-managed) participants. I work independently of Medicare so clients can access therapy without formal diagnoses, session limits, or GP involvement. Some private health rebates may apply depending on your provider.
I’ve spent over a decade working in trauma- addiction across public and private settings.
If you've been struggling to manage and still feeling stuck, I work with people who need more than surface-level strategies. My focus is complex trauma, PTSD, long-term recovery, and the impact of systems, relationships, and life events that leave lasting consequences. My approach is practical, grounded, and centred on restoring stability, safety, and agency. I’m SIRA registered and support NDIS (self-managed or plan-managed) participants. I work independently of Medicare so clients can access therapy without formal diagnoses, session limits, or GP involvement. Some private health rebates may apply depending on your provider.
(02) 4210 5062 View (02) 4210 5062
James Norman O'Connor
Psychotherapist, MPsych, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000
I help people overcome all relationship problems including intimacy, communiction, connection, conflict, drug and alcohol use and confidence and anxiety concerns.
Hi I'm Jim O'Connor clinical psychotherapist and relationship therapist. I help people overcome the challenges they face in their relationships. If you're someone who is single and wishing to get into a relationship but you don't know how to find the right person, then I can help. If your in a relationship and you want to create more connection, I can show you how. If you're in an abusive relationship and you don't know if you should leave or stay I can help you decide and I will support you what ever you decide. If it has anything to do with dating or relating in the modern world I can help.
I help people overcome all relationship problems including intimacy, communiction, connection, conflict, drug and alcohol use and confidence and anxiety concerns.
Hi I'm Jim O'Connor clinical psychotherapist and relationship therapist. I help people overcome the challenges they face in their relationships. If you're someone who is single and wishing to get into a relationship but you don't know how to find the right person, then I can help. If your in a relationship and you want to create more connection, I can show you how. If you're in an abusive relationship and you don't know if you should leave or stay I can help you decide and I will support you what ever you decide. If it has anything to do with dating or relating in the modern world I can help.
(02) 9100 0073 View (02) 9100 0073
Think Well Hypnotherapy
Psychotherapist
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My passion is to help you achieve your goals and enhance your well-being through the power of hypnotherapy and strategic psychotherapy. Whether you're looking to overcome stress and anxiety, break free from unwanted habits, or simply improve your overall health, I'm here to guide you every step of the way. With proven best practice techniques and compassionate care, you and I can work together to unlock your true potential and achieve life changing results. I will help you achieve freedom, give you back control of your thoughts and feelings, and ultimately help you to create the life that you want and deserve.
My passion is to help you achieve your goals and enhance your well-being through the power of hypnotherapy and strategic psychotherapy. Whether you're looking to overcome stress and anxiety, break free from unwanted habits, or simply improve your overall health, I'm here to guide you every step of the way. With proven best practice techniques and compassionate care, you and I can work together to unlock your true potential and achieve life changing results. I will help you achieve freedom, give you back control of your thoughts and feelings, and ultimately help you to create the life that you want and deserve.
(02) 4307 5535 View (02) 4307 5535
Lyn Pritchard
Counsellor, PACFA
Online Only
Underpinning a client-centred approach, I bring to my work extensive training in mindfulness strategies and relaxation techniques to help clients reduce stress and alleviate anxiety and depression. My approach favours the behaviour focused therapies of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, (ACT) encouraging people to reach their full potential and live according to their values. The principles of both DBT and ACT work together to help clients manage painful thoughts and feelings and support them in resolving issues around drug and alcohol addiction, depression, anxiety, and loss.
Underpinning a client-centred approach, I bring to my work extensive training in mindfulness strategies and relaxation techniques to help clients reduce stress and alleviate anxiety and depression. My approach favours the behaviour focused therapies of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, (ACT) encouraging people to reach their full potential and live according to their values. The principles of both DBT and ACT work together to help clients manage painful thoughts and feelings and support them in resolving issues around drug and alcohol addiction, depression, anxiety, and loss.
(02) 9100 0488 View (02) 9100 0488
Izumi Yamaguchi
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Serves Area
I have experienced with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, addiction, adjustment problems and relationship concerns.
I am passionate to help clients overcome their challenges and take meaningful steps toward a better future. By exploring clients' internal conflicts and working on underlying vulnerabilities, I assist clients in finding ways together to alleviate or solve them.
I have experienced with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, addiction, adjustment problems and relationship concerns.
I am passionate to help clients overcome their challenges and take meaningful steps toward a better future. By exploring clients' internal conflicts and working on underlying vulnerabilities, I assist clients in finding ways together to alleviate or solve them.
(03) 7003 2420 View (03) 7003 2420
Dr Antonia Saunokonoko
Psychotherapist, PhD, ACA-L4
Sydney, NSW 2000
Are you struggling with an eating disorder, alcoholism or an addiction?
Addictions and eating disorders are complex conditions and even recovery can present its challenges. I offer a wealth of expertise in helping you gently move away from the struggle they can present. I use a wide range of techniques proven to help bring about change, as well as using warmth, compassion and patience to help you build the life you want.
Are you struggling with an eating disorder, alcoholism or an addiction?
Addictions and eating disorders are complex conditions and even recovery can present its challenges. I offer a wealth of expertise in helping you gently move away from the struggle they can present. I use a wide range of techniques proven to help bring about change, as well as using warmth, compassion and patience to help you build the life you want.
(02) 9159 6579 View (02) 9159 6579
Shane Pearse
Counsellor
Sydney, NSW 2000
These behavioural or “process” addictions bring short‑term relief but often create more secrecy, disconnection, and repeated relationship struggles.
With over a decade supporting people in addiction recovery, I'm passionate about helping individuals rebuild their lives. I specialise in behavioural/process addictions, compulsive sexual behaviour, love and relationship addiction, codependency, shame, and intimacy difficulties.
These behavioural or “process” addictions bring short‑term relief but often create more secrecy, disconnection, and repeated relationship struggles.
With over a decade supporting people in addiction recovery, I'm passionate about helping individuals rebuild their lives. I specialise in behavioural/process addictions, compulsive sexual behaviour, love and relationship addiction, codependency, shame, and intimacy difficulties.
0405 504 698 View 0405 504 698
Andrew Robertson
Psychotherapist, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Potts Point, NSW 2011
I have worked both in inpatient facilities and in private practice with clients experiencing issues such as addiction, depression, anxiety, developmental and complex trauma, PTSD, grief, relationship problems and identity confusion.
My greatest satisfaction is working with clients to help them transcend the issues and experiences that hold them back from having the lives they want. Embarking on psychotherapy should be one of the most meaningful experiences a person can have. Accompanying another human being on that path is the most deeply rewarding aspect of my work.
I have worked both in inpatient facilities and in private practice with clients experiencing issues such as addiction, depression, anxiety, developmental and complex trauma, PTSD, grief, relationship problems and identity confusion.
My greatest satisfaction is working with clients to help them transcend the issues and experiences that hold them back from having the lives they want. Embarking on psychotherapy should be one of the most meaningful experiences a person can have. Accompanying another human being on that path is the most deeply rewarding aspect of my work.
(02) 8294 7992 View (02) 8294 7992
Next Steps Counselling and Psychotherapy
Counsellor, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Caringbah, NSW 2229
Trauma, addiction, anxiety, burnout, grief, relationship stress, or that stuck feeling that's hard to name.
I'm an IFS therapist and PACFA registered counsellor, with over 13 years across hospitals, rehabs and community services and a Graduate Diploma in Mental Health and Neuroscience. I pay attention to what's underneath the surface, to the parts of you carrying something, not just the symptom. The work is steady, honest and tailored to where you're at.
Trauma, addiction, anxiety, burnout, grief, relationship stress, or that stuck feeling that's hard to name.
I'm an IFS therapist and PACFA registered counsellor, with over 13 years across hospitals, rehabs and community services and a Graduate Diploma in Mental Health and Neuroscience. I pay attention to what's underneath the surface, to the parts of you carrying something, not just the symptom. The work is steady, honest and tailored to where you're at.
(02) 9538 7432 View (02) 9538 7432
Kent Cheney
Counsellor
Online Only
I support adults who feel stuck in patterns of unwanted sexual behaviours and want lasting change, including those seeking help to take responsibility and prevent harm. My approach is calm, structured, and non-judgemental, focusing on understanding underlying drivers, building practical strategies, and strengthening self-control and accountability. I provide a confidential space where clients can speak openly without shame. Sessions are goal-focused and paced to support sustainable growth rather than quick fixes. I offer online counselling for individuals ready to engage honestly in the change process.
I support adults who feel stuck in patterns of unwanted sexual behaviours and want lasting change, including those seeking help to take responsibility and prevent harm. My approach is calm, structured, and non-judgemental, focusing on understanding underlying drivers, building practical strategies, and strengthening self-control and accountability. I provide a confidential space where clients can speak openly without shame. Sessions are goal-focused and paced to support sustainable growth rather than quick fixes. I offer online counselling for individuals ready to engage honestly in the change process.
0494 587 298 View 0494 587 298
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
Rebecca Higgins - EMDR & Trauma Treatment
Psychotherapist, ACA-L4
2 Endorsed
Online Only
She knows how deeply disorienting it can be when trauma, addiction, or relationship pain disrupts your sense of safety, identity, and connection.
Rebecca is certified by IITAP as a CSAT, CPTT, and CMAT, trained through APSATS, and is an EMDR Consultant with EMDRAA and EMDRIA. She is completing a Master of Science in Medicine (Trauma-Informed Psychotherapy) at the University of Sydney, where her research focuses on betrayal trauma and complex PTSD and treatment outcomes.
She knows how deeply disorienting it can be when trauma, addiction, or relationship pain disrupts your sense of safety, identity, and connection.
Rebecca is certified by IITAP as a CSAT, CPTT, and CMAT, trained through APSATS, and is an EMDR Consultant with EMDRAA and EMDRIA. She is completing a Master of Science in Medicine (Trauma-Informed Psychotherapy) at the University of Sydney, where her research focuses on betrayal trauma and complex PTSD and treatment outcomes.
View
Therapy with Shell
Counsellor, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Brookvale, NSW 2100
I especially welcome people who are: • Living with addiction or worried about their relationship with substances or behaviors • Navigating challenging relationships—whether that means conflict, disconnection, or emotional overwhelm
I can help you by bringing together meaningful therapy skills, deep presence, and lived understanding. I’m Gestalt trained and also work with eco-therapy, so we explore what’s happening in the moment and how your environment, relationships, and daily life may be shaping your mental health and recovery.
I especially welcome people who are: • Living with addiction or worried about their relationship with substances or behaviors • Navigating challenging relationships—whether that means conflict, disconnection, or emotional overwhelm
I can help you by bringing together meaningful therapy skills, deep presence, and lived understanding. I’m Gestalt trained and also work with eco-therapy, so we explore what’s happening in the moment and how your environment, relationships, and daily life may be shaping your mental health and recovery.
(02) 8403 1097 View (02) 8403 1097
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
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
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.