Suicidal Ideation Psychologists and Therapists in Umina Beach, NSW

Photo of Nick Bowditch, Counsellor, PhD
Nick Bowditch
Counsellor, PhD
Serves Area
If you're in recovery and scared it's not going to stick — I get it. I've been there. I'm a counsellor with almost 20 years of clinical experience and my PhD research specialises in addiction recovery and relapse prevention. I work with people who are serious about lasting change, not just getting through the week. My Terrigal clinic is a short drive from anywhere on the Central Coast, and I offer telehealth if that's easier. Call me for a free 15-minute chat — no pressure, no forms, just a conversation. If you are ready for recovery - REALLY ready - then let's get started.
If you're in recovery and scared it's not going to stick — I get it. I've been there. I'm a counsellor with almost 20 years of clinical experience and my PhD research specialises in addiction recovery and relapse prevention. I work with people who are serious about lasting change, not just getting through the week. My Terrigal clinic is a short drive from anywhere on the Central Coast, and I offer telehealth if that's easier. Call me for a free 15-minute chat — no pressure, no forms, just a conversation. If you are ready for recovery - REALLY ready - then let's get started.
(02) 4307 5133 View (02) 4307 5133
Photo of Tammy Schwarzl, Social Worker, AMHSW
Tammy Schwarzl
Social Worker, AMHSW
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello, Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, just not yourself or disconnected — even though you’re trying to keep going? Do you worry that things may never feel safe or steady again or that you have lost your way in life? If trauma, anxiety, feeling flat or burnout are shaping your days, you don’t have to face that alone. I offer relational, trauma-informed therapy grounded in evidence-based approaches, including EMDR, to gently support healing and lasting change.
Hello, Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, just not yourself or disconnected — even though you’re trying to keep going? Do you worry that things may never feel safe or steady again or that you have lost your way in life? If trauma, anxiety, feeling flat or burnout are shaping your days, you don’t have to face that alone. I offer relational, trauma-informed therapy grounded in evidence-based approaches, including EMDR, to gently support healing and lasting change.
(02) 4307 5067 View (02) 4307 5067
Photo of Alexandra Connell - Connection Point Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Connection Point Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Serves Area
I specialise in working with neurodivergent individuals, with experience across the lifespan. I've offer both therapy and diagnostic assessments in this space (including Autism, ADHD, learning difficulties, cognitive assessments and more). I offer therapy for a range of presentations such as Trauma and C-PTSD, Anxiety Disorders, OCD, Depression and Adjustment, anger management, masking and navigating late diagnosis, support for executive functioning skills, boundary setting, self-esteem and identity exploration, parenting and emotional regulation support, school refusal (“school can’t”).
I specialise in working with neurodivergent individuals, with experience across the lifespan. I've offer both therapy and diagnostic assessments in this space (including Autism, ADHD, learning difficulties, cognitive assessments and more). I offer therapy for a range of presentations such as Trauma and C-PTSD, Anxiety Disorders, OCD, Depression and Adjustment, anger management, masking and navigating late diagnosis, support for executive functioning skills, boundary setting, self-esteem and identity exploration, parenting and emotional regulation support, school refusal (“school can’t”).
(02) 4307 5508 View (02) 4307 5508

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Cristiona Guiney, Social Worker, AASW
Cristiona Guiney
Social Worker, AASW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I have over 7 years experience working in Mental Health in Community Organisations, with 5 years experience working directly with communities experiencing thoughts and behaviours of suicide.
Hi, my name is Cristiona and I am passionate about social change, building safe, compassionate and supportive relationships, and creating opportunities for people to be empowered. I live with chronic pain, autism, ADHD and lived experience of suicidality, anxiety, depression and being a transgender queer person. This gives me a unique perspective to my work. All this may mean I am not the right therapist for you, but also if working alongside someone with lived experience who get's it is important to you I might be just the person.
I have over 7 years experience working in Mental Health in Community Organisations, with 5 years experience working directly with communities experiencing thoughts and behaviours of suicide.
Hi, my name is Cristiona and I am passionate about social change, building safe, compassionate and supportive relationships, and creating opportunities for people to be empowered. I live with chronic pain, autism, ADHD and lived experience of suicidality, anxiety, depression and being a transgender queer person. This gives me a unique perspective to my work. All this may mean I am not the right therapist for you, but also if working alongside someone with lived experience who get's it is important to you I might be just the person.
(03) 8338 1788 View (03) 8338 1788
Photo of Ernst Meyer, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Ernst Meyer
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Sydney, NSW 2000
PTSD, anxiety, depression, anger management, issues with self worth, disordered eating, neurodiversity, addictions, suicidality - are these the kind of experiences that are present in your life? Are you feeling judged by others (or are judging yourself) because of your physical experience, your financial situation, your professional or social standing, or because of the work you do? Do yo feel that you are not functioning effectively and efficiently in life? Have relationships with intimate partners, friends and colleagues come under pressure? Has living life itself become problematic?
PTSD, anxiety, depression, anger management, issues with self worth, disordered eating, neurodiversity, addictions, suicidality - are these the kind of experiences that are present in your life? Are you feeling judged by others (or are judging yourself) because of your physical experience, your financial situation, your professional or social standing, or because of the work you do? Do yo feel that you are not functioning effectively and efficiently in life? Have relationships with intimate partners, friends and colleagues come under pressure? Has living life itself become problematic?
(02) 9100 0096 View (02) 9100 0096
Photo of Eden Dywer, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Eden Dywer
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Newtown, NSW 2042
Hi, I’m Eden (he/they), a Registered Psychologist deeply committed to improving mental health outcomes for neurodivergent individuals and the LGBTQIA+ community. As a trans and neurodivergent person, I bring a lived understanding of how stigma, systemic barriers, and discrimination can affect mental health and identity. I am dedicated to providing trauma-informed, neuro-affirming, sex-positive, and gender and sexuality-affirming care, creating a safe and supportive therapeutic space where clients feel respected and empowered to be their authentic selves.
Hi, I’m Eden (he/they), a Registered Psychologist deeply committed to improving mental health outcomes for neurodivergent individuals and the LGBTQIA+ community. As a trans and neurodivergent person, I bring a lived understanding of how stigma, systemic barriers, and discrimination can affect mental health and identity. I am dedicated to providing trauma-informed, neuro-affirming, sex-positive, and gender and sexuality-affirming care, creating a safe and supportive therapeutic space where clients feel respected and empowered to be their authentic selves.
(02) 9420 3143 View (02) 9420 3143
Photo of Bianca Rosin, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Bianca Rosin
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
You might be living with the impact of complex trauma - feeling on edge, emotionally overwhelmed, shut down, or stuck in patterns that don’t make sense. Maybe you’ve done therapy before and understand your story, but your nervous system still reacts as if the danger is present. I work with adults healing from complex trauma (CPTSD), developmental trauma, and repeated relational wounds. My approach integrates mind and body - supporting both insight and nervous system regulation so change feels sustainable, not forced. Trauma doesn’t only live in memory. It lives in the body and in protective patterns that once helped you survive.
You might be living with the impact of complex trauma - feeling on edge, emotionally overwhelmed, shut down, or stuck in patterns that don’t make sense. Maybe you’ve done therapy before and understand your story, but your nervous system still reacts as if the danger is present. I work with adults healing from complex trauma (CPTSD), developmental trauma, and repeated relational wounds. My approach integrates mind and body - supporting both insight and nervous system regulation so change feels sustainable, not forced. Trauma doesn’t only live in memory. It lives in the body and in protective patterns that once helped you survive.
(02) 4077 0486 View (02) 4077 0486
Photo of Susanne Verdal-Austin, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Susanne Verdal-Austin
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Online Only
My counselling draws on my belief that each client's treatment needs to be individualized to his or her unique history and life story, culture, values, strengths and needs. I believe in creating a safe, supportive and non - judgmental environment in which the client will be treated with respect and confidentiality. It is here that the client is supported in finding their value, healing and strength in resolving their struggles and pain. My sincere wish is for my clients to leave the counselling process changed and equipped with new skills to approach their future with confidence and resilience.
My counselling draws on my belief that each client's treatment needs to be individualized to his or her unique history and life story, culture, values, strengths and needs. I believe in creating a safe, supportive and non - judgmental environment in which the client will be treated with respect and confidentiality. It is here that the client is supported in finding their value, healing and strength in resolving their struggles and pain. My sincere wish is for my clients to leave the counselling process changed and equipped with new skills to approach their future with confidence and resilience.
(02) 7804 4069 View (02) 7804 4069
Photo of Marie Laing, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Marie Laing
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Ultimo, NSW 2007
Although we may be trying our hardest, sometimes we can feel overwhelmed and unable to cope, or that our lives have taken a wrong turn. We can be plagued by depression, anxiety, grief or difficult life transitions. Or we may have mental illness or trauma that continues to get in our way and stops us flourishing. If these difficulties ring true, I believe I can help you get your life and your self back. Together, we will explore where you are now, the person you want to be and the way you want to live.
Although we may be trying our hardest, sometimes we can feel overwhelmed and unable to cope, or that our lives have taken a wrong turn. We can be plagued by depression, anxiety, grief or difficult life transitions. Or we may have mental illness or trauma that continues to get in our way and stops us flourishing. If these difficulties ring true, I believe I can help you get your life and your self back. Together, we will explore where you are now, the person you want to be and the way you want to live.
(02) 9160 0712 View (02) 9160 0712
Photo of Jayshree Patel - Curamind therapy centre , Counsellor, PhD, ACA-L1
Curamind therapy centre
Counsellor, PhD, ACA-L1
Bella Vista, NSW 2153
I love working with diverse clients using different approaches that fits their needs and interests. My niche is Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia, Trauma, DV, Crisis and neurodivergence. Many of us have been experiencing various mental health challenges such as difficulty sleeping, depressed, stressed, overwhelmed, emotional disturbances, traumatised, affected by DV and crisis etc. The benefits of the therapy can be mental or emotional, physical, behavioural, and related to relationship or life. Some common benefits of therapy include better sleep, increased focus, reduce stress and improves emotional wellbeing. Your wellbeing is goal.
I love working with diverse clients using different approaches that fits their needs and interests. My niche is Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia, Trauma, DV, Crisis and neurodivergence. Many of us have been experiencing various mental health challenges such as difficulty sleeping, depressed, stressed, overwhelmed, emotional disturbances, traumatised, affected by DV and crisis etc. The benefits of the therapy can be mental or emotional, physical, behavioural, and related to relationship or life. Some common benefits of therapy include better sleep, increased focus, reduce stress and improves emotional wellbeing. Your wellbeing is goal.
(02) 8609 3072 View (02) 8609 3072
Photo of Edvard Miler, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L4
Edvard Miler
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L4
Epping, NSW 2121
Feeling anxious or depressed? Are you experiencing burnout at work? Are you going through some tough times in your marriage or relationship? Do you have issues with your faith that are leaving you with an overwhelming sense of guilt and shame? Are you going through grief and loss? Do you feel stuck and need some form of guidance and problem-solving skills? Do you need professional supervision? If your answer is "yes" to any of these questions, you have come to the right place.
Feeling anxious or depressed? Are you experiencing burnout at work? Are you going through some tough times in your marriage or relationship? Do you have issues with your faith that are leaving you with an overwhelming sense of guilt and shame? Are you going through grief and loss? Do you feel stuck and need some form of guidance and problem-solving skills? Do you need professional supervision? If your answer is "yes" to any of these questions, you have come to the right place.
(02) 7804 4429 View (02) 7804 4429
Photo of Shareen Birges
Shareen Birges
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parramatta, NSW 2150
I have been a counsellor, case manager & youth worker since 2008. Prior to 2016 I worked primarily with young people & their families, however I can & have worked with people across the age spectrum, all with unique & varied needs. Counselling is an individual experience & I want you to feel that no matter what, your needs are important. This is why I aim to provide an accessible, affordable & sustainable service. I believe I can help you on your journey towards the best version of yourself. Contact me for a free 15 minute phone consult & see if you agree.
I have been a counsellor, case manager & youth worker since 2008. Prior to 2016 I worked primarily with young people & their families, however I can & have worked with people across the age spectrum, all with unique & varied needs. Counselling is an individual experience & I want you to feel that no matter what, your needs are important. This is why I aim to provide an accessible, affordable & sustainable service. I believe I can help you on your journey towards the best version of yourself. Contact me for a free 15 minute phone consult & see if you agree.
(02) 9159 6730 View (02) 9159 6730
Photo of Bee Sagar, Counsellor, PACFA
Bee Sagar
Counsellor, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Baulkham Hills, NSW 2153
I believe that therapy is a necessity for every individual, regardless of their age, gender, or circumstances. Everybody has a story, and every story needs to be heard by a willing ear, understood with no judgement, shared in a safe environment, and respected. I aim to deliver a positive outcome for individuals, allowing them to further better their lives today, tomorrow and in their futures using a holistic and person-centred approach. I help my patients in building self-awareness, confidence, and understanding and empowering them to regain control of their lives, allowing positive choices, providing a sense of direction.
I believe that therapy is a necessity for every individual, regardless of their age, gender, or circumstances. Everybody has a story, and every story needs to be heard by a willing ear, understood with no judgement, shared in a safe environment, and respected. I aim to deliver a positive outcome for individuals, allowing them to further better their lives today, tomorrow and in their futures using a holistic and person-centred approach. I help my patients in building self-awareness, confidence, and understanding and empowering them to regain control of their lives, allowing positive choices, providing a sense of direction.
(02) 8403 1541 View (02) 8403 1541
Photo of Dr Christine Ellisdon, Psychologist, PsychD, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Dr Christine Ellisdon
Psychologist, PsychD, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Serves Area
I believe all people have an innate capacity for wisdom and, with this, a natural capacity for healing. I aim to empower people by supporting their connection to this inner wisdom while gently addressing the barriers that may limit access to it and prevent them from living a full and enriching life. Many people experience difficulties related to unresolved issues from the past, stressful relationship dynamics, work-related challenges, self-defeating behavioural patterns, and self-critical ways of thinking. Psychological counselling can help to develop insight, build on your strengths, and support meaningful and lasting change.
I believe all people have an innate capacity for wisdom and, with this, a natural capacity for healing. I aim to empower people by supporting their connection to this inner wisdom while gently addressing the barriers that may limit access to it and prevent them from living a full and enriching life. Many people experience difficulties related to unresolved issues from the past, stressful relationship dynamics, work-related challenges, self-defeating behavioural patterns, and self-critical ways of thinking. Psychological counselling can help to develop insight, build on your strengths, and support meaningful and lasting change.
(03) 9008 1947 View (03) 9008 1947
Photo of Claudia De Giorgi - The Therapy Room Claudia De Giorgi, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
The Therapy Room Claudia De Giorgi
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Balmain, NSW 2041
As a trauma-informed Psychotherapist and Counsellor working with adults, young people and couples. My work focuses on helping clients understand and work through complex emotional experiences. Informed by evidence-based and trauma-informed therapeutic frameworks within a collaborative, person-centred approach.
As a trauma-informed Psychotherapist and Counsellor working with adults, young people and couples. My work focuses on helping clients understand and work through complex emotional experiences. Informed by evidence-based and trauma-informed therapeutic frameworks within a collaborative, person-centred approach.
(02) 8261 0969 View (02) 8261 0969
Photo of Tania MacLeod - Your Safe Place Counselling, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Your Safe Place Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Rouse Hill, NSW 2155
Hi, I’m Tania, founder of Your Safe Place Counselling; a passionate advocate for mental health and well-being. With over 30 yrs experience working in leadership and personal development, I’ve made it my mission to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore your feelings and find healing. Combining formal education with life experiences and skills gained from 3 decades of inspiring thousands of women towards confidence, self-belief, and personal growth I’ve learned that everyone’s story is unique. My approach focuses on providing tailored support that empowers you to navigate life's difficulties.
Hi, I’m Tania, founder of Your Safe Place Counselling; a passionate advocate for mental health and well-being. With over 30 yrs experience working in leadership and personal development, I’ve made it my mission to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore your feelings and find healing. Combining formal education with life experiences and skills gained from 3 decades of inspiring thousands of women towards confidence, self-belief, and personal growth I’ve learned that everyone’s story is unique. My approach focuses on providing tailored support that empowers you to navigate life's difficulties.
(02) 8403 1275 View (02) 8403 1275
Photo of Jodie Handley, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Jodie Handley
Counsellor, ACA-L2
2 Endorsed
Northmead, NSW 2152
I am deeply passionate about helping clients in their journey of dealing with pain, mental health concerns, relationship difficulties, trauma, grief, and losses in life that may be hindering their ability to live life to the full. As my client, you’ll be met with a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where you can share what matters most to you.
I am deeply passionate about helping clients in their journey of dealing with pain, mental health concerns, relationship difficulties, trauma, grief, and losses in life that may be hindering their ability to live life to the full. As my client, you’ll be met with a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where you can share what matters most to you.
(02) 8609 3634 View (02) 8609 3634
Photo of An Chu, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
An Chu
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Rhodes, NSW 2138
An Chu is a Registered Psychologist with a demonstrated history of providing mental health support across government organisations, NGOs, and the private sector. He completed his Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) at the University of New South Wales and holds a Master's degree in Professional Psychology from Western Sydney University, where he was awarded a place on the Dean's Merit List for outstanding achievement. He is trained in various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Brief-solution Focused Therapy and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT).
An Chu is a Registered Psychologist with a demonstrated history of providing mental health support across government organisations, NGOs, and the private sector. He completed his Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) at the University of New South Wales and holds a Master's degree in Professional Psychology from Western Sydney University, where he was awarded a place on the Dean's Merit List for outstanding achievement. He is trained in various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Brief-solution Focused Therapy and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT).
(02) 9159 6114 View (02) 9159 6114
Photo of Mary-Sue Sarkis, Counsellor, PACFA
Mary-Sue Sarkis
Counsellor, PACFA
Online Only
I’m a clinical counsellor registered with PACFA, with over a decade of experience supporting young people, individuals, and families through life’s more challenging moments. I am also an approved counsellor with Victims Services NSW. My approach is collaborative and tailored to your individual needs. I draw on evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Trauma-informed approaches and Radical Exposure Tapping. I support clients with a range of concerns - anxiety and stress, depression and low mood, trauma, emotional healing, family and relationship challenges.
I’m a clinical counsellor registered with PACFA, with over a decade of experience supporting young people, individuals, and families through life’s more challenging moments. I am also an approved counsellor with Victims Services NSW. My approach is collaborative and tailored to your individual needs. I draw on evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Trauma-informed approaches and Radical Exposure Tapping. I support clients with a range of concerns - anxiety and stress, depression and low mood, trauma, emotional healing, family and relationship challenges.
(02) 7804 4645 View (02) 7804 4645
Photo of Kelly Anne Martin - Reflect Therapy - Kelly Martin, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Reflect Therapy - Kelly Martin
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Serves Area
I work from a relational perspective, building trust within a safe and supportive space. I have worked with clients with significant trauma, parental concerns, family and domestic violence, substance use, and sexual abuse. I understand grief and loss and work with a psychodynamic and trauma focused lens.
I work from a relational perspective, building trust within a safe and supportive space. I have worked with clients with significant trauma, parental concerns, family and domestic violence, substance use, and sexual abuse. I understand grief and loss and work with a psychodynamic and trauma focused lens.
(08) 7008 9607 View (08) 7008 9607
Suicidal Ideation Therapists
How does therapy for suicidal ideation work?
Stress, depression, anxiety, or upsetting circumstances can give rise to suicidal thinking. Therapy can address the events at the core of an individual’s suffering. Understanding why a person may be suicidal can help the therapist and the patient discover alternative methods of coping. A person with suicidal ideation may be mired in catastrophic thinking, and treatment like cognitive behavioural therapy is a good choice for breaking such patterns. In addition, treatment such as acceptance and commitment therapy can help a person manage their distress through better emotion regulation.

Which therapies are best for suicidal ideation?
Specific approaches used by professionals include cognitive behavioural, dialectical behaviour, psychodynamic, acceptance and commitment therapies, among others. Cognitive behavioural and dialectical behaviour therapies are two widely used therapies that can help individuals with painful thoughts and past traumas. These therapies help an individual tolerate distress, regulate emotions, and not act on dangerous urges.

Are there specific medications to be combined with therapy?
The use of medication for suicidal thoughts must be aligned with the underlying cause; conditions such as depression, anxiety, and psychosis may be at the root of suicidal ideation. A psychiatrist may prescribe medications for symptoms, which may include antipsychotics such as aripiprazole or antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.

How often and how long are therapy sessions for suicidal ideation?
As with any type of therapy, sessions depend on the individual. Patients may see improvement within 15 to 20 sessions, at an average of 50 minutes per session, while others may opt for 20 to 30 sessions over, perhaps, a six-month period. Still other patients, especially those with co-occurring conditions like major depression and anxiety, may need to continue sessions for up to 12 to 18 months. In some cases, residential treatment may be recommended for an individual who is judged to be at high risk of self-harm.