Adoption Psychologists and Therapists in Vaucluse, NSW

Photo of Wilfred Lax, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Wilfred Lax
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I have been a Clinical Psychologist for many years, I have worked with individuals, couples and families who present with a variety of needs. I have trained in Hypnotherapy worked with clients with complex trauma, and across the lifespan. I don't believe that any one is 'broken' but do believe that everyone can be fixed. Optimism and humour are central to my practice as are warmth and empathy. Courage is important both for you and me.
I have been a Clinical Psychologist for many years, I have worked with individuals, couples and families who present with a variety of needs. I have trained in Hypnotherapy worked with clients with complex trauma, and across the lifespan. I don't believe that any one is 'broken' but do believe that everyone can be fixed. Optimism and humour are central to my practice as are warmth and empathy. Courage is important both for you and me.
(02) 9100 0797 View (02) 9100 0797
Photo of Jo-Elle Warhurst - Jo-Elle Warhurst - People Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Jo-Elle Warhurst - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Jo-Elle is a Registered Psychologist with over twenty years experience specialising in supporting clients, children (5-12 years), teenagers (13-17 years) and adults, to overcome their psychological symptoms to achieve recovery and personal growth. Through the application of CBT, ACT and Mindfulness principles, Jo-Elle is able to assist clients to stabilise anxiety, mood fluctuation, insomnia, social withdrawal and rebuild their self esteem. Jo-Elle quickly establishes rapport with clients across a broad range of sectors and backgrounds to explore their challenges and equip them with the tools to resolve their presenting concerns.
Jo-Elle is a Registered Psychologist with over twenty years experience specialising in supporting clients, children (5-12 years), teenagers (13-17 years) and adults, to overcome their psychological symptoms to achieve recovery and personal growth. Through the application of CBT, ACT and Mindfulness principles, Jo-Elle is able to assist clients to stabilise anxiety, mood fluctuation, insomnia, social withdrawal and rebuild their self esteem. Jo-Elle quickly establishes rapport with clients across a broad range of sectors and backgrounds to explore their challenges and equip them with the tools to resolve their presenting concerns.
(03) 7003 2532 View (03) 7003 2532
Photo of Dr Liza Chervonsky, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Liza Chervonsky
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I am an experienced clinical psychologist, with a particular interest in working with clients who have difficulties regulating their emotions (anxiety, mood, shame, anger), have interpersonal or relationship difficulties, or personality issues. I find that these people are often misunderstood by others, which leads to them misunderstanding themselves and the origin of their difficulties.
I am an experienced clinical psychologist, with a particular interest in working with clients who have difficulties regulating their emotions (anxiety, mood, shame, anger), have interpersonal or relationship difficulties, or personality issues. I find that these people are often misunderstood by others, which leads to them misunderstanding themselves and the origin of their difficulties.
(02) 8294 6686 View (02) 8294 6686
Photo of Sasha MacBride - Nationwide Grief Counselling, Social Worker, AASW
Nationwide Grief Counselling
Social Worker, AASW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
When grief or trauma disrupts your sense of safety, life can feel overwhelming and unfamiliar. You may feel exhausted, numb, anxious, or disconnected from yourself and from others — especially when loss has stirred up past experiences or emotions. I’m Sasha, an experienced therapist specialising in grief, loss, bereavement, and trauma. I support adolescents, adults, and older people who are navigating the impact of death, significant change, or traumatic experiences.
When grief or trauma disrupts your sense of safety, life can feel overwhelming and unfamiliar. You may feel exhausted, numb, anxious, or disconnected from yourself and from others — especially when loss has stirred up past experiences or emotions. I’m Sasha, an experienced therapist specialising in grief, loss, bereavement, and trauma. I support adolescents, adults, and older people who are navigating the impact of death, significant change, or traumatic experiences.
(02) 9100 0767 View (02) 9100 0767
Photo of Liza Chervonsky - Inlight Psychology, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Inlight Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Immediate availability. We see adults, adolescents, children, couples, and parents. We can assist with a number of issues including anxiety and mood disorders, anger management, social and relationship difficulties, work and academic problems, procrastination and time management, perfectionism, emotion regulation difficulties and personality disorders.
Immediate availability. We see adults, adolescents, children, couples, and parents. We can assist with a number of issues including anxiety and mood disorders, anger management, social and relationship difficulties, work and academic problems, procrastination and time management, perfectionism, emotion regulation difficulties and personality disorders.
(02) 8074 5391 View (02) 8074 5391
Photo of Karyn Krawford, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Karyn Krawford
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
Hi, I am a registered clinical Psychotherapist and social scientist. I help a broad range of people and challenges that range from childhood events and trauma to relationship challenges both in families, partnerships, and professional relationships. I help people overcome self-defeating actions and survive in ways that support healthy functioning and enjoyment of life. These can relate to stress, anxiety, life changes or environment, relationship breakdowns and death of treasured others. I provide a free consultation and currently work online only.
Hi, I am a registered clinical Psychotherapist and social scientist. I help a broad range of people and challenges that range from childhood events and trauma to relationship challenges both in families, partnerships, and professional relationships. I help people overcome self-defeating actions and survive in ways that support healthy functioning and enjoyment of life. These can relate to stress, anxiety, life changes or environment, relationship breakdowns and death of treasured others. I provide a free consultation and currently work online only.
(02) 9100 0537 View (02) 9100 0537
Photo of Jordi Tome, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Jordi Tome
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Families and adults come to me for clarity. Often a child is struggling at school, a teenager has hit a wall, or an adult has spent years sensing something was missed. Most of my work is assessment: autism, ADHD, FASD, cognitive, educational, memory, and broader neuropsychological assessment, for every age. I use gold-standard instruments, then take time to explain what the results mean and what to do next. I also work with vulnerable children and families in child protection and out-of-home care, and I see clients for trauma-informed therapy alongside assessment.
Families and adults come to me for clarity. Often a child is struggling at school, a teenager has hit a wall, or an adult has spent years sensing something was missed. Most of my work is assessment: autism, ADHD, FASD, cognitive, educational, memory, and broader neuropsychological assessment, for every age. I use gold-standard instruments, then take time to explain what the results mean and what to do next. I also work with vulnerable children and families in child protection and out-of-home care, and I see clients for trauma-informed therapy alongside assessment.
0478 261 970 View 0478 261 970
Photo of Suzanne Milligan, Counsellor, MC, PACFA
Suzanne Milligan
Counsellor, MC, PACFA
Serves Area
Many of my clients are women 50+ facing major life changes—divorce, loss, burnout, or feeling lost after years of putting others first. They want clarity, emotional ease, and a stronger connection to themselves. I also work with individuals and couples of all ages who feel stuck and want lasting inner change. Using Internal Family Systems therapy, somatic practices, and self-compassion, I help you gently explore what’s going on beneath the surface—so you can move forward with more clarity, connection, and confidence. I also see anyone who wants to know themselves on a deeper level, healing past trauma and attachment wounds.
Many of my clients are women 50+ facing major life changes—divorce, loss, burnout, or feeling lost after years of putting others first. They want clarity, emotional ease, and a stronger connection to themselves. I also work with individuals and couples of all ages who feel stuck and want lasting inner change. Using Internal Family Systems therapy, somatic practices, and self-compassion, I help you gently explore what’s going on beneath the surface—so you can move forward with more clarity, connection, and confidence. I also see anyone who wants to know themselves on a deeper level, healing past trauma and attachment wounds.
(02) 6412 5413 View (02) 6412 5413
Photo of Lisa-Maree Botticelli, Psychotherapist, MPsych, PACFA
Lisa-Maree Botticelli
Psychotherapist, MPsych, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
0434 479 751 View 0434 479 751

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kimberley Lee, Counsellor, PACFA
Kimberley Lee
Counsellor, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Potts Point, NSW 2011
I have lived experience with adoption and an interest in working with adopted people and their families.
I work with adoptees, people who are single on purpose, dating and new relationships, depression, anxiety, career and workplace challenges, major life changes and choices, and people who work in the sex industry. I believe everyone can make change with support and care through the process. I continue to develop my practice with ongoing training in somatic psychotherapy (2021-ongoing), am a certified trauma-informed yoga and meditation teacher, and a communications specialist. I also offer integrative lymphatic drainage massage.
I have lived experience with adoption and an interest in working with adopted people and their families.
I work with adoptees, people who are single on purpose, dating and new relationships, depression, anxiety, career and workplace challenges, major life changes and choices, and people who work in the sex industry. I believe everyone can make change with support and care through the process. I continue to develop my practice with ongoing training in somatic psychotherapy (2021-ongoing), am a certified trauma-informed yoga and meditation teacher, and a communications specialist. I also offer integrative lymphatic drainage massage.
(02) 8806 0548 View (02) 8806 0548
Photo of Renee Claire Voice, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Renee Claire Voice
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Newport, NSW 2106
Many people today feel isolated and alone in their relationships as a result of the current difficult times of the pandemic. A basic human need is to connect and the breakdown of relationships can be extremely painful. My aim is to help you grow in your relationship - to move from a state of conflict, loneliness, unhappiness to healing and connection with your partner.
Many people today feel isolated and alone in their relationships as a result of the current difficult times of the pandemic. A basic human need is to connect and the breakdown of relationships can be extremely painful. My aim is to help you grow in your relationship - to move from a state of conflict, loneliness, unhappiness to healing and connection with your partner.
(02) 4313 1538 View (02) 4313 1538
Photo of Ché Stevenson, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Ché Stevenson
Psychotherapist, PACFA
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
One of the barriers to self-care is allowing yourself to go into the depths of your experiences. Often, we are challenged to explore and understand this profound chasm, to touch what is held there, to hear its messages, and to connect with compassion to the raw emotions that have been lying dormant for years or just surfaced. By peering into the abyss, we can gain deeper understanding of ourselves and insight into the meaning of our lives; transforming and opening up possibilities the future could hold for us.
One of the barriers to self-care is allowing yourself to go into the depths of your experiences. Often, we are challenged to explore and understand this profound chasm, to touch what is held there, to hear its messages, and to connect with compassion to the raw emotions that have been lying dormant for years or just surfaced. By peering into the abyss, we can gain deeper understanding of ourselves and insight into the meaning of our lives; transforming and opening up possibilities the future could hold for us.
(03) 9118 9050 View (03) 9118 9050
Photo of Caroline Spiers, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Caroline Spiers
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Serves Area
Specialism in working with adoptees/people affected by adoption, donor conception, LGBTQIA/poly community, ASD, ADHD, complex traumas.
Are you struggling with your life and feel you might have unresolved issues, trauma, relationship or neurodiversity challenges or managing family dynamics/adoptee/grief and loss, bereavement or cultural issues? LGBTQIA+ needs that aren’t being seen or understood? Effective therapy will allow you space to talk and be heard and validated, guide you at your own pace on your journey and provide safety and non judgement to explore what can be achieved. This is the foundation of my practice - always from a trauma informed perspective.
Specialism in working with adoptees/people affected by adoption, donor conception, LGBTQIA/poly community, ASD, ADHD, complex traumas.
Are you struggling with your life and feel you might have unresolved issues, trauma, relationship or neurodiversity challenges or managing family dynamics/adoptee/grief and loss, bereavement or cultural issues? LGBTQIA+ needs that aren’t being seen or understood? Effective therapy will allow you space to talk and be heard and validated, guide you at your own pace on your journey and provide safety and non judgement to explore what can be achieved. This is the foundation of my practice - always from a trauma informed perspective.
(03) 7003 2855 View (03) 7003 2855
Photo of Rachel Agnew - Rachel Agnew - New Beginnings Psychotherapy, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Rachel Agnew - New Beginnings Psychotherapy
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Online Only
Hi, I’m Rachel. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or like something just isn’t quite right, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to figure it out on your own. I’m a warm, down-to-earth therapist who offers a safe, non-judgemental space to talk things through at your pace. I work in a person-centred, trauma-informed way, which means I listen deeply, value your uniqueness, and support you to understand yourself more fully, not just at a cognitive level, but emotionally and relationally too. Together, we’ll explore whatever you're carrying and move towards healing and clarity.
Hi, I’m Rachel. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or like something just isn’t quite right, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to figure it out on your own. I’m a warm, down-to-earth therapist who offers a safe, non-judgemental space to talk things through at your pace. I work in a person-centred, trauma-informed way, which means I listen deeply, value your uniqueness, and support you to understand yourself more fully, not just at a cognitive level, but emotionally and relationally too. Together, we’ll explore whatever you're carrying and move towards healing and clarity.
(07) 3477 9543 View (07) 3477 9543
Photo of Jenny Lian, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Jenny Lian
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Gladesville, NSW 2111
I am a qualified psychotherapist and counsellor(PACFA No. 27709) who provides therapy in English, Mandarin, Cantonese and Teochew. My lived experience in both Asia and Australia equips me with a strong understanding of cross cultural and migration issues.
I am a qualified psychotherapist and counsellor(PACFA No. 27709) who provides therapy in English, Mandarin, Cantonese and Teochew. My lived experience in both Asia and Australia equips me with a strong understanding of cross cultural and migration issues.
(02) 5118 9019 View (02) 5118 9019
Photo of Alisa De Torres, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Alisa De Torres
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Woollahra, NSW 2025
I help with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, low self-worth, PTSD and adoption or loss & personality disorders.
I work best with individuals navigating trauma, mood or relationship difficulties, or long-standing patterns that feel hard to change. Some are dealing with anxiety, trauma or depression; others are working through complex life experiences such as past trauma, relationship issues, personality issues or loss. Often, they’ve spent years coping but feel ready to understand themselves more deeply and shift what’s no longer serving them. They’re seeking a therapy space that offers warmth, depth, and clarity, where insight leads to meaningful and lasting change.
I help with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, low self-worth, PTSD and adoption or loss & personality disorders.
I work best with individuals navigating trauma, mood or relationship difficulties, or long-standing patterns that feel hard to change. Some are dealing with anxiety, trauma or depression; others are working through complex life experiences such as past trauma, relationship issues, personality issues or loss. Often, they’ve spent years coping but feel ready to understand themselves more deeply and shift what’s no longer serving them. They’re seeking a therapy space that offers warmth, depth, and clarity, where insight leads to meaningful and lasting change.
(02) 9362 5417 View (02) 9362 5417
Photo of Eliza Mealey, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Eliza Mealey
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
I am a qualified counsellor registered with ACA and hold a BA of Creative Arts Psychotherapy from Ikon Institute Australia. The combination of having experience in both counselling and art therapy allows me to reach a diverse clientele. I work in a holistic way, guiding clients towards their strengths. I have experience working with adults who face life challenges and young children and adolescents who have social, emotional and behavioural issues. I facilitate individual counselling and group therapy/art therapy for adolescents who struggle with self identity and the pressures that come with school/family and social settings.
I am a qualified counsellor registered with ACA and hold a BA of Creative Arts Psychotherapy from Ikon Institute Australia. The combination of having experience in both counselling and art therapy allows me to reach a diverse clientele. I work in a holistic way, guiding clients towards their strengths. I have experience working with adults who face life challenges and young children and adolescents who have social, emotional and behavioural issues. I facilitate individual counselling and group therapy/art therapy for adolescents who struggle with self identity and the pressures that come with school/family and social settings.
(07) 3132 2928 View (07) 3132 2928
Photo of Dr Louise Mary McGreal, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Dr Louise Mary McGreal
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Online Only
I am passionate about working with individuals and couples who may be struggling with issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, loss, trauma, stress/burnout, low self-esteem, abuse and relationship issues. I also have a keen interest in personal development and helping clients promote self-awareness in their lives. I can provide alcohol free mentoring also for clients who may want to examine their relationship with alcohol and move towards an alcohol free lifestyle. I have completed level 1 and 2 training in the Gottman Method for couples counselling.
I am passionate about working with individuals and couples who may be struggling with issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, loss, trauma, stress/burnout, low self-esteem, abuse and relationship issues. I also have a keen interest in personal development and helping clients promote self-awareness in their lives. I can provide alcohol free mentoring also for clients who may want to examine their relationship with alcohol and move towards an alcohol free lifestyle. I have completed level 1 and 2 training in the Gottman Method for couples counselling.
0477 006 253 View 0477 006 253
Photo of Maria Simonetta, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Maria Simonetta
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Summer Hill, NSW 2130
When lingering or reoccurring issues arise they create within us a dissatisfaction about life and how we feel about ourselves. Issues such as relationship difficulties, addictions, career, life transitions, parenting, depression, anxiety, stress, body image, negative beliefs and thoughts, emotional overwhelm, aggression, low energy, impulsivity etc. can affect your self esteem and your ability to think clearly and solve problems effectively. Learning new skills, building on resilience and resources and dealing with past issues that affect your present life can be empowering and create satisfaction and fulfilment in your life.
When lingering or reoccurring issues arise they create within us a dissatisfaction about life and how we feel about ourselves. Issues such as relationship difficulties, addictions, career, life transitions, parenting, depression, anxiety, stress, body image, negative beliefs and thoughts, emotional overwhelm, aggression, low energy, impulsivity etc. can affect your self esteem and your ability to think clearly and solve problems effectively. Learning new skills, building on resilience and resources and dealing with past issues that affect your present life can be empowering and create satisfaction and fulfilment in your life.
(02) 8073 9397 View (02) 8073 9397
Photo of Grigota Monasterio, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Grigota Monasterio
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Online Only
My interest and passion for health care began in my early adolescence as a volunteer at a school for children with special needs. In the years that followed I worked with people on the spectrum with high behavioural needs and also in group homes for people with chronic and severe mental illness. I then trained as a Clinical Psychologist and continued to deepen my experience and passion in the 20+ years I have worked with NSW Health in a number of different of roles. I now work with people across a broad range of issues as listed.
My interest and passion for health care began in my early adolescence as a volunteer at a school for children with special needs. In the years that followed I worked with people on the spectrum with high behavioural needs and also in group homes for people with chronic and severe mental illness. I then trained as a Clinical Psychologist and continued to deepen my experience and passion in the 20+ years I have worked with NSW Health in a number of different of roles. I now work with people across a broad range of issues as listed.
(03) 7003 2944 View (03) 7003 2944
Adoption Therapists
Does my adopted child need therapy?
Not every adopted child needs therapy. However, many can benefit from seeing an adoption-informed therapist, especially if they were victims of abuse or neglect, appear withdrawn or disconnected, have behavioural or developmental issues (which may or may not be related to their adoption), are struggling with feelings of grief or loss surrounding their birth parents, or find it difficult to establish an identity, a challenge that often becomes most apparent during adolescence.

When should adoptive parents seek therapy?
Prospective parents can benefit from therapy even before an adoption—for example, to voice worries and fears; to reconcile infertility struggles, if relevant; or simply to prepare themselves for parenthood. After the adoption, parents who are struggling to bond with their child; are unsure how to talk about adoption or related issues, such as race; or whose child is dealing with developmental, behavioural, or psychiatric concerns can address these and other issues with the help of an adoption-competent therapist.

Is family therapy appropriate for adoptive families?
Family therapy can be invaluable for strengthening the bond between adoptive parents and children, helping the latter feel more secure in their place in the family. Family therapy can also help adoptive families navigate complex communication issues—for example, parents who feel uncomfortable discussing race with their child, who in turn feels invalidated by their silence, or a child who has questions about his birth parents but avoids asking them out of fear of hurting his adoptive parents’ feelings.

What therapy is not appropriate for adoption issues?
A discredited therapy known as “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy” or “rebirthing therapy”) should not be used to treat adopted and foster children, though it was largely designed for this population. Attachment therapy involves restraining, coercing, and punishing the child in order for them to “release” negative emotions and attach to their new caregivers—techniques that are abusive and dangerous and have even proven fatal in some cases.