Addiction Psychologists and Therapists in Sydney, NSW

Photo of Peter Dominish, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Peter Dominish
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Penrith, NSW 2750
For over 10 years my experience and training has focused on adding value to the lives of those who seek to enrich their quality and experience of life. I specialise in therapeutic techniques for those who want to: aspire toward personal/professional goals; seek meaning; overcome relationship challenges; escape a life rut; struggle with men’s issues; or just overcome those persistent overwhelming uncomfortable emotions and thoughts. Additionally, I specialise in treating people with prolonged mental health conditions, unhelpful habits or behaviours for which you have been unable to overcome through previous treatment.
For over 10 years my experience and training has focused on adding value to the lives of those who seek to enrich their quality and experience of life. I specialise in therapeutic techniques for those who want to: aspire toward personal/professional goals; seek meaning; overcome relationship challenges; escape a life rut; struggle with men’s issues; or just overcome those persistent overwhelming uncomfortable emotions and thoughts. Additionally, I specialise in treating people with prolonged mental health conditions, unhelpful habits or behaviours for which you have been unable to overcome through previous treatment.
(02) 4708 9635 View (02) 4708 9635
Photo of Samantha McDonnell, Psychotherapist
Samantha McDonnell
Psychotherapist
Paddington, NSW 2021
Are you affected by issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, abuse, loss, or relationships?
I work with a diverse range of clients and issues, including extensive experience with LGBTQ, those with personality disorders, PTSD/CPTSD, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, low self-esteem, and/or survivors of bullying, sexual, domestic or historical abuse. I have a particular interest in relieving the combined effects on mind and body of unresolved trauma.
Are you affected by issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, abuse, loss, or relationships?
I work with a diverse range of clients and issues, including extensive experience with LGBTQ, those with personality disorders, PTSD/CPTSD, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, low self-esteem, and/or survivors of bullying, sexual, domestic or historical abuse. I have a particular interest in relieving the combined effects on mind and body of unresolved trauma.
(02) 9100 0083 View (02) 9100 0083
Photo of Dijana Dzambic De Franca, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Dijana Dzambic De Franca
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Blacktown, NSW 2148
If addiction, gambling, mental health, or relationship problems are becoming harder to manage, this time of year can feel especially heavy and uncertain how you’ll cope around family, the festive season, or financial stress?
I work with adults, couples, and families break old limiting cycles, build resilience, and regain confidence for lasting change. My approach is warm, practical, and tailored to you, using evidence-based therapies such as CBT, DBT, ACT and trauma-informed methods that effectively heal, cope and manage life triggers effectively.
If addiction, gambling, mental health, or relationship problems are becoming harder to manage, this time of year can feel especially heavy and uncertain how you’ll cope around family, the festive season, or financial stress?
I work with adults, couples, and families break old limiting cycles, build resilience, and regain confidence for lasting change. My approach is warm, practical, and tailored to you, using evidence-based therapies such as CBT, DBT, ACT and trauma-informed methods that effectively heal, cope and manage life triggers effectively.
(02) 8609 3067 View (02) 8609 3067
Photo of Rachel Gordon, Psychotherapist, MPsych, PACFA
Rachel Gordon
Psychotherapist, MPsych, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Cammeray, NSW 2062
I specialise in addiction, anxiety, substance dependence, relationships, grief and loss.
I believe that as human beings our vulnerabilities can often become our greatest strengths. My mission is to walk beside my clients in a heart centred, trauma informed, holistic way while helping them to rediscover their authentic self, find purpose and have meaningful, fulfilling relationships.
I specialise in addiction, anxiety, substance dependence, relationships, grief and loss.
I believe that as human beings our vulnerabilities can often become our greatest strengths. My mission is to walk beside my clients in a heart centred, trauma informed, holistic way while helping them to rediscover their authentic self, find purpose and have meaningful, fulfilling relationships.
(02) 9100 0864 View (02) 9100 0864
Photo of Paul Jessop, Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
Paul Jessop
Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
Petersham, NSW 2049
I am passionate about helping people through depression, anxiety, mood disorders and addiction.
My approach is holistic and integrative utilising a toolbox of healing and therapeutic modalities, drawing on my many years of experience of practice, study, working in the corporate world, as well as my own life experience of healing and self-exploration.
I am passionate about helping people through depression, anxiety, mood disorders and addiction.
My approach is holistic and integrative utilising a toolbox of healing and therapeutic modalities, drawing on my many years of experience of practice, study, working in the corporate world, as well as my own life experience of healing and self-exploration.
(02) 8000 1695 View (02) 8000 1695
Photo of Veerle van Weelden - Van Weelden Therapy, Counsellor, PACFA
Van Weelden Therapy
Counsellor, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Brookvale, NSW 2100
Somatic Psychotherapy - (complex) PTSD/ Trauma - Addiction - Relationship Issues - Do you sense that something within you is ready to shift?
Through therapeutic techniques such as Brainspotting and Somatic Experiencing we can work to process trauma and deeper issues to allow you to feel better. In my work I tailor the different treatment modalities to your individual needs and I find the right tools that you can implement yourself outside of sessions.
Somatic Psychotherapy - (complex) PTSD/ Trauma - Addiction - Relationship Issues - Do you sense that something within you is ready to shift?
Through therapeutic techniques such as Brainspotting and Somatic Experiencing we can work to process trauma and deeper issues to allow you to feel better. In my work I tailor the different treatment modalities to your individual needs and I find the right tools that you can implement yourself outside of sessions.
(02) 8403 2961 View (02) 8403 2961
Photo of Rosalynn Koh, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Rosalynn Koh
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Surry Hills, NSW 2010
She understands the development stages of children and young adults well and has helped many to overcome issues such as depression, anxiety and addiction.
Rosalynn is a bilingual therapist who is fluent in English and Mandarin. 我可以用普通话咨询, 并使用符合文化的方法帮助客户. She also understands the Chinese and Western culture well and uses a culturally-appropriate method to help her clients achieve their goals. She uses Cognitive Behavior Therapy widely in her work and adopts other forms of therapy.
She understands the development stages of children and young adults well and has helped many to overcome issues such as depression, anxiety and addiction.
Rosalynn is a bilingual therapist who is fluent in English and Mandarin. 我可以用普通话咨询, 并使用符合文化的方法帮助客户. She also understands the Chinese and Western culture well and uses a culturally-appropriate method to help her clients achieve their goals. She uses Cognitive Behavior Therapy widely in her work and adopts other forms of therapy.
(02) 9100 0936 View (02) 9100 0936
Jordan Woolley
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Bella Vista, NSW 2153
I provide focused support for a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, OCD, addiction, stress, and life transitions.
I work with individuals who are navigating life's challenging times, from teenagers grappling with identity and school stress to adults facing anxiety, depression, trauma, and complex relationship dynamics. My clients often come to me feeling overwhelmed, seeking not just relief but a deeper understanding of themselves. My goal is to empower them to reclaim their lives, find clarity amidst confusion, and build resilience. Together, we work towards transforming struggles into strengths, helping them create a life that is aligned with their values and aspirations.
I provide focused support for a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, OCD, addiction, stress, and life transitions.
I work with individuals who are navigating life's challenging times, from teenagers grappling with identity and school stress to adults facing anxiety, depression, trauma, and complex relationship dynamics. My clients often come to me feeling overwhelmed, seeking not just relief but a deeper understanding of themselves. My goal is to empower them to reclaim their lives, find clarity amidst confusion, and build resilience. Together, we work towards transforming struggles into strengths, helping them create a life that is aligned with their values and aspirations.
(02) 6399 2282 View (02) 6399 2282
Photo of Jackson Goding - Jackson Goding - Find Reason Therapy, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Jackson Goding - Find Reason Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
3 Endorsed
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
I work closely with codependency, substance use and behavioural addictions with my experience working at South Pacific Private Hospital
Do you ever struggle with how you see yourself and how you show up in relationships? Is something getting in the way of allowing you to meet your needs and connect with others? There is a road to finding value in yourself and an ability to be in healthy relationships when you take the step to put yourself first, increase your awareness and address your concerns. Find Reason Therapy creates a safe space to help you find the whole unique you with worth, values, and needs, guiding you to connect to stuck emotional pain in order to live a life with purpose and meaning.
I work closely with codependency, substance use and behavioural addictions with my experience working at South Pacific Private Hospital
Do you ever struggle with how you see yourself and how you show up in relationships? Is something getting in the way of allowing you to meet your needs and connect with others? There is a road to finding value in yourself and an ability to be in healthy relationships when you take the step to put yourself first, increase your awareness and address your concerns. Find Reason Therapy creates a safe space to help you find the whole unique you with worth, values, and needs, guiding you to connect to stuck emotional pain in order to live a life with purpose and meaning.
(02) 9100 0013 View (02) 9100 0013
Photo of Christine Hughes, Counsellor, PACFA
Christine Hughes
Counsellor, PACFA
Brookvale, NSW 2100
- If you are struggling with Mental Health (Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Mood Disorders, ADHD) - Addictions ( Drugs, Alcohol, Gambling, Sex, Gaming, Work and Eating Disorders) - Trauma (Childhood Physical, Emotional and Sexual Abuse) - Grief and Loss (Unresolved Grief and Empty Chair Work Therapy) - Co-Dependency in Relationships (Conflict, Boundaries and Communication Issues) then I have the skill set to help you overcome these challenges if you are willing to do the work.
As a counsellor I offer a safe and non judgemental space to support client's to be vulnerable, process trauma, work through life challenges and build a toolbox of support skills to enhance healthy self-esteem, boundaries, emotional regulation, assertive communication, relapse prevention and healthy relationships to achieve meaningful change and self-agency.
- If you are struggling with Mental Health (Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Mood Disorders, ADHD) - Addictions ( Drugs, Alcohol, Gambling, Sex, Gaming, Work and Eating Disorders) - Trauma (Childhood Physical, Emotional and Sexual Abuse) - Grief and Loss (Unresolved Grief and Empty Chair Work Therapy) - Co-Dependency in Relationships (Conflict, Boundaries and Communication Issues) then I have the skill set to help you overcome these challenges if you are willing to do the work.
As a counsellor I offer a safe and non judgemental space to support client's to be vulnerable, process trauma, work through life challenges and build a toolbox of support skills to enhance healthy self-esteem, boundaries, emotional regulation, assertive communication, relapse prevention and healthy relationships to achieve meaningful change and self-agency.
(02) 8403 1536 View (02) 8403 1536
Photo of Helen Joy Maxfield - Helen Maxfield Counselling, Psychologist, MAPS
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
Photo of Steven Passfield, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Steven Passfield
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Kogarah, NSW 2217
Notably, Steven has experience working in Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD), Palliative Care, and Medical Rehabilitation services within NSW Health to address complex comorbid psychosocial challenges, including addiction, death/dying, and adjustment to serious illness/injury.
Steven is a psychologist who provides a calming presence to aid individuals understand and resolve their struggles within a relaxed environment. Steven emphasises the individuality of each client to ensure that they are seen as more than a diagnosis and receive an intervention tailored to their needs. Steven has completed a Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) and Master of Clinical Psychology. Steven has had experience working within public and private settings to address a variety of presenting issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma.
Notably, Steven has experience working in Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD), Palliative Care, and Medical Rehabilitation services within NSW Health to address complex comorbid psychosocial challenges, including addiction, death/dying, and adjustment to serious illness/injury.
Steven is a psychologist who provides a calming presence to aid individuals understand and resolve their struggles within a relaxed environment. Steven emphasises the individuality of each client to ensure that they are seen as more than a diagnosis and receive an intervention tailored to their needs. Steven has completed a Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) and Master of Clinical Psychology. Steven has had experience working within public and private settings to address a variety of presenting issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma.
(02) 8105 6288 View (02) 8105 6288
Photo of Lyn Pritchard, Counsellor, PACFA
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
Photo of Wendy Corliss, Psychotherapist, MSc, ANZAP Graduate
Wendy Corliss
Psychotherapist, MSc, ANZAP Graduate
Dee Why, NSW 2099
I am a calm, compassionate, and non-judgmental individual and couple therapist. I work to develop relationships of deep trust and understanding with you. I have a great deal of experience helping people overcome complex and persistent problems. I will never give up on you. I will hold the hope for you even if you are feeling discouraged or hopeless. As a nurse practitioner as well as a psychotherapist, I can prescribe psychotropic medication if needed. I can provide medicare rebates for every session because I am also a nurse practitioner.
I am a calm, compassionate, and non-judgmental individual and couple therapist. I work to develop relationships of deep trust and understanding with you. I have a great deal of experience helping people overcome complex and persistent problems. I will never give up on you. I will hold the hope for you even if you are feeling discouraged or hopeless. As a nurse practitioner as well as a psychotherapist, I can prescribe psychotropic medication if needed. I can provide medicare rebates for every session because I am also a nurse practitioner.
(02) 9158 6638 View (02) 9158 6638
Photo of Mary McConochie, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Mary McConochie
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Online Only
With almost 15 years’ experience, I support children, adolescents, and adults facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, borderline personality disorder, and substance use.
I use evidence-based psychological interventions tailored to individual needs, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Schema Therapy, mindfulness-based approaches, and relapse prevention strategies to support emotional regulation, insight, and sustainable change.
With almost 15 years’ experience, I support children, adolescents, and adults facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, borderline personality disorder, and substance use.
I use evidence-based psychological interventions tailored to individual needs, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Schema Therapy, mindfulness-based approaches, and relapse prevention strategies to support emotional regulation, insight, and sustainable change.
(02) 9054 5269 View (02) 9054 5269
Photo of Sarah Beetham - Sarah Beetham Psychotherapist, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Sarah Beetham Psychotherapist
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Mona Vale, NSW 2103
"I need to not sit with this Pain" a gateway to addictions, offering immediate comfort & adrenaline to run from that Pain.
Have you been unable to move beyond entrenched unhealthy Relational Patterns or Addictive Behaviours deeply impacting your Emotional, Psychological & Physical well-being? The repetitive nature of these unhealthy Thoughts, Behaviours & Feelings are what leads most clients through my door. My task as your Counsellor is to provide an environment that disrupts your current level of functioning or repetitive patterns & move you towards Change & Renewed Progression. I observe your Discrepancies or Mixed Messages & Inner Conflicts within your Narrative, Story & Behaviours, regarding the most personal dimensions of your Life Challenges.
"I need to not sit with this Pain" a gateway to addictions, offering immediate comfort & adrenaline to run from that Pain.
Have you been unable to move beyond entrenched unhealthy Relational Patterns or Addictive Behaviours deeply impacting your Emotional, Psychological & Physical well-being? The repetitive nature of these unhealthy Thoughts, Behaviours & Feelings are what leads most clients through my door. My task as your Counsellor is to provide an environment that disrupts your current level of functioning or repetitive patterns & move you towards Change & Renewed Progression. I observe your Discrepancies or Mixed Messages & Inner Conflicts within your Narrative, Story & Behaviours, regarding the most personal dimensions of your Life Challenges.
(02) 8074 3973 View (02) 8074 3973
Photo of Dr Hannah Glassman, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Dr Hannah Glassman
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Brookvale, NSW 2100
I work with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, low mood, stress, relationship challenges, grief and loss, self-esteem concerns, or addictions.
Using a range of evidence-based approaches, I work with you to make sense of your difficulties and develop practical, scientifically-grounded strategies to support meaningful change and improve psychological functioning.
I work with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, low mood, stress, relationship challenges, grief and loss, self-esteem concerns, or addictions.
Using a range of evidence-based approaches, I work with you to make sense of your difficulties and develop practical, scientifically-grounded strategies to support meaningful change and improve psychological functioning.
(02) 8403 2646 View (02) 8403 2646
Photo of Belinda Carroll, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Belinda Carroll
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Banksmeadow, NSW 2019
My clientele are interested in developing self awareness, working on attachment issues and loss, managing their emotions and accessing their unconscious needs, feelings and passions. They are willing to work on extrinsically motivated coping mechanisms that are no longer serving or benefiting their lives. My clientele are open to developing assertive communication skills sourced from authentic desires and are committed to build a strong, confident sense of self. These clients are ready to work on deeper themes and woundings, childhood trauma's, loss, accumulative adult traumas and present day crisis and difficulties.
My clientele are interested in developing self awareness, working on attachment issues and loss, managing their emotions and accessing their unconscious needs, feelings and passions. They are willing to work on extrinsically motivated coping mechanisms that are no longer serving or benefiting their lives. My clientele are open to developing assertive communication skills sourced from authentic desires and are committed to build a strong, confident sense of self. These clients are ready to work on deeper themes and woundings, childhood trauma's, loss, accumulative adult traumas and present day crisis and difficulties.
0403 289 204 View 0403 289 204
Photo of Simon van der Stap, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Simon van der Stap
Psychotherapist, PACFA
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Whether you struggle with Alcohol or Other Drugs, clinical disorders such as anxiety or depression, historical stuff such as trauma, self-defeating habits that keep you stuck, a lack of direction or assertiveness, or you simply want to build a better life, you've come to the right place!
I offer a warm, genuine, Person-Centred approach and have extensive clinical experience with Substance Use Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Workplace Bullying, LBGTQI+ issues, Life-Goals, Assertiveness Training and sudden, Life-Changing Events.
Whether you struggle with Alcohol or Other Drugs, clinical disorders such as anxiety or depression, historical stuff such as trauma, self-defeating habits that keep you stuck, a lack of direction or assertiveness, or you simply want to build a better life, you've come to the right place!
I offer a warm, genuine, Person-Centred approach and have extensive clinical experience with Substance Use Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Workplace Bullying, LBGTQI+ issues, Life-Goals, Assertiveness Training and sudden, Life-Changing Events.
(02) 9159 3750 View (02) 9159 3750
Photo of Emma Mansell, Counsellor, PsychD, ACA-L1
Emma Mansell
Counsellor, PsychD, ACA-L1
Sydney, NSW 2000
Hello, my name is Emma, and I am an LGBTQIA+ therapist and business consultant specialising in mental health and addiction support.
I specialise in LGBTQIA+ therapy, supporting individuals exploring their gender identity or transitioning. With a gentle, client-paced approach, I aim to create a safe space where you feel understood and respected. Having faced challenges myself, I’m here to offer compassion, guidance, and support tailored to your unique journey.
Hello, my name is Emma, and I am an LGBTQIA+ therapist and business consultant specialising in mental health and addiction support.
I specialise in LGBTQIA+ therapy, supporting individuals exploring their gender identity or transitioning. With a gentle, client-paced approach, I aim to create a safe space where you feel understood and respected. Having faced challenges myself, I’m here to offer compassion, guidance, and support tailored to your unique journey.
(02) 8403 2271 View (02) 8403 2271

See more therapy options for Sydney

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.