Substance Use Psychologists and Therapists in Westmead, NSW

Photo of Karen Maude Tyndall, Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Karen Maude Tyndall
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Westmead, NSW 2145
Hi I'm Karen! I am a clinical psychologist with over 30 years experience. I'm very passionate about empowering people to realise their true potential. I'm here to guide you to go beyond your thoughts and to discover your true self and the light that shines within you. While traditional psychology deals with the mind, my approach looks at the person as a whole, taking into consideration mind, body and breath. I use a client centred approach to therapy which is integrative and empirically based.
Hi I'm Karen! I am a clinical psychologist with over 30 years experience. I'm very passionate about empowering people to realise their true potential. I'm here to guide you to go beyond your thoughts and to discover your true self and the light that shines within you. While traditional psychology deals with the mind, my approach looks at the person as a whole, taking into consideration mind, body and breath. I use a client centred approach to therapy which is integrative and empirically based.
(02) 7804 4688 View (02) 7804 4688
Photo of Rosalynn Koh, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Rosalynn Koh
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Serves Area
Rosalynn has worked extensively with children and adults. 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 also an experienced counsellor working with adults who are suffering from various psychological issues and addiction. She has also worked with many clients who faced abuse and trauma.
Rosalynn has worked extensively with children and adults. 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 also an experienced counsellor working with adults who are suffering from various psychological issues and addiction. She has also worked with many clients who faced abuse and trauma.
(02) 9100 0936 View (02) 9100 0936
Photo of Debbie Viengkham, Psychologist, MAPS
Debbie Viengkham
Psychologist, MAPS
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My ideal client would be someone who is motivated to change, and keen to understand their own behaviours and motivations in hopes for a more balanced life. I have a passion for understanding human behaviour, our motivations and what influences our choices, decisions, and actions whether conscious or subconscious. I find the dynamics between people and their environment fascinating, and how individual differences allow us to perceive the world in our own unique ways.
My ideal client would be someone who is motivated to change, and keen to understand their own behaviours and motivations in hopes for a more balanced life. I have a passion for understanding human behaviour, our motivations and what influences our choices, decisions, and actions whether conscious or subconscious. I find the dynamics between people and their environment fascinating, and how individual differences allow us to perceive the world in our own unique ways.
(02) 7804 4203 View (02) 7804 4203
Photo of Mathew Marchant, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Mathew Marchant
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Mathew is an empathic and understanding Clinical Psychologist who enjoys helping clients explore their difficulties and pursue meaningful changes in their lives. He has extensive experience working with a diverse range of issues, including anxiety, depression, burnout, self-confidence, trauma, grief, and adjustment to major life changes. Mathew has a special interest in working with addiction. He has previously served at addiction centres and gambling clinics, including the Centre for Addiction Medicine at Cumberland Hospital. He has also facilitated training workshops in Sydney and interstate.
Mathew is an empathic and understanding Clinical Psychologist who enjoys helping clients explore their difficulties and pursue meaningful changes in their lives. He has extensive experience working with a diverse range of issues, including anxiety, depression, burnout, self-confidence, trauma, grief, and adjustment to major life changes. Mathew has a special interest in working with addiction. He has previously served at addiction centres and gambling clinics, including the Centre for Addiction Medicine at Cumberland Hospital. He has also facilitated training workshops in Sydney and interstate.
(02) 8074 5731 View (02) 8074 5731
Photo of Shareen Birges
Shareen Birges
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Caitlin Amanda Gaffney, Social Worker, AASW
Caitlin Amanda Gaffney
Social Worker, AASW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am experienced working with neuro-diversity, addiction/ substance use and behaviour change.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with specialised experience supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, recovery and trauma. I am a Credentialed Eating Disorder Clinician and member of ANZAED. My approach is grounded in empathy, empowerment and collaboration, focused on building the insight, self-compassion, and practical skills needed to achieve your goals and live in alignment with your values. Clients who are referred by a GP with a mental health care plan are eligible for Medicare rebates of $87.25 per session.
I am experienced working with neuro-diversity, addiction/ substance use and behaviour change.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with specialised experience supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, recovery and trauma. I am a Credentialed Eating Disorder Clinician and member of ANZAED. My approach is grounded in empathy, empowerment and collaboration, focused on building the insight, self-compassion, and practical skills needed to achieve your goals and live in alignment with your values. Clients who are referred by a GP with a mental health care plan are eligible for Medicare rebates of $87.25 per session.
View
Photo of Matthew William Sutherland - Sutherland Vitality, Social Worker, AASW
Sutherland Vitality
Social Worker, AASW
1 Endorsed
Marrickville, NSW 2204
We all struggle sometimes with life, but sometimes, it can feel like there’s no way forward. Sometimes there are things that you wish you could talk about with someone, but you just can’t find anyone who really hears you. I believe that we all deserve to be heard, and that when someone truly listens, it can help us to heal, grow, and move forward. My goal is to collaborate with you to create a shared understanding of your situation and some ways to move forward. It’s fantastic that you’re considering therapy, and I hope to support you on your journey however I can.
We all struggle sometimes with life, but sometimes, it can feel like there’s no way forward. Sometimes there are things that you wish you could talk about with someone, but you just can’t find anyone who really hears you. I believe that we all deserve to be heard, and that when someone truly listens, it can help us to heal, grow, and move forward. My goal is to collaborate with you to create a shared understanding of your situation and some ways to move forward. It’s fantastic that you’re considering therapy, and I hope to support you on your journey however I can.
0459 678 306 View 0459 678 306
Photo of Lucie Swaffield, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA Endorsed
Lucie Swaffield
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA Endorsed
1 Endorsed
Woollahra, NSW 2025
As a Clinical and Forensic Psychologist, and Advanced Accredited Schema Therapist, Lucie brings a particular skill set and tested methods that work. Lucie has over 11 years of experience treating a broad range of clinical and forensic difficulties, including trauma, PTSD, addiction, personality disorders and complex problems.
As a Clinical and Forensic Psychologist, and Advanced Accredited Schema Therapist, Lucie brings a particular skill set and tested methods that work. Lucie has over 11 years of experience treating a broad range of clinical and forensic difficulties, including trauma, PTSD, addiction, personality disorders and complex problems.
(02) 9000 1914 View (02) 9000 1914
Photo of Barry Lewis, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Barry Lewis
Psychotherapist, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Surry Hills, NSW 2010
Many different events will impact our lives, most of the time we can deal with them, other times we cannot. A difficult childhood, the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, an illness or accident, a toxic work environment, sexuality & gender, unemployment, the current pandemic affecting our world or just being at a new stage of our lives can cause us to feel lost within ourselves and the wider world. This can lead to anxiety or depression, it can affect our self-esteem and disconnect us from everyone around us, leaving us isolated and alone.
Many different events will impact our lives, most of the time we can deal with them, other times we cannot. A difficult childhood, the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, an illness or accident, a toxic work environment, sexuality & gender, unemployment, the current pandemic affecting our world or just being at a new stage of our lives can cause us to feel lost within ourselves and the wider world. This can lead to anxiety or depression, it can affect our self-esteem and disconnect us from everyone around us, leaving us isolated and alone.
(02) 6189 2878 View (02) 6189 2878
Photo of Dave Segal, Counsellor, PACFA
Dave Segal
Counsellor, PACFA
Online Only
Specialising in couples counselling, substance use, grief, and trauma I utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
If you’ve found yourself here, chances are something important isn’t feeling right—maybe in your relationship, your sense of self, or both. Whether you’re in a new relationship or have been together for decades, it’s common to feel stuck, disconnected, or unsure of how to move forward. And it’s not always easy to open up to friends, family, or even your partner. I offer a warm, collaborative space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported as we work together to create meaningful, lasting change—emotionally, mentally, and in the way you connect with others. Therapy isn’t about fixing you—it’s about supporting you.
Specialising in couples counselling, substance use, grief, and trauma I utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
If you’ve found yourself here, chances are something important isn’t feeling right—maybe in your relationship, your sense of self, or both. Whether you’re in a new relationship or have been together for decades, it’s common to feel stuck, disconnected, or unsure of how to move forward. And it’s not always easy to open up to friends, family, or even your partner. I offer a warm, collaborative space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported as we work together to create meaningful, lasting change—emotionally, mentally, and in the way you connect with others. Therapy isn’t about fixing you—it’s about supporting you.
(07) 4085 9014 View (07) 4085 9014
Photo of Mary Capsanis, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Mary Capsanis
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Putney, NSW 2112
I'm a Clinical Psychologist who started my practice Introspect Clinical Psychology as I'm passionate about creating a supportive space for people to explore their challenges without judgement. I work with adults (18+), including individuals as well as working with couples. My areas of focus are supporting individuals to improve symptoms of stress, anxiety, depression, as well as supporting those who want to recover from harmful coping behaviours. I have an interest in helping individuals work through the childhood origins of their current difficulties, as well as building coping mechanisms and outlets for their distress.
I'm a Clinical Psychologist who started my practice Introspect Clinical Psychology as I'm passionate about creating a supportive space for people to explore their challenges without judgement. I work with adults (18+), including individuals as well as working with couples. My areas of focus are supporting individuals to improve symptoms of stress, anxiety, depression, as well as supporting those who want to recover from harmful coping behaviours. I have an interest in helping individuals work through the childhood origins of their current difficulties, as well as building coping mechanisms and outlets for their distress.
(02) 7804 4751 View (02) 7804 4751
Photo of Li Lian Koh, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Li Lian Koh
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
[Telehealth only]. Li Lian is a registered Clinical Psychologist who works primarily with older adolescents and adults, and enjoys working with clients of differing cultural backgrounds and presenting issues. She has experience working with anxiety disorders, depression, PTSD, anger management, addictions, as well as criminal and offending behaviours. Li Lian ensures that she creates a warm, empathetic and non-judgemental space for clients. She encourages open and honest communication to ensure that clients feel comfortable in sharing their thoughts, feelings, behaviours and any feedback about the process.
[Telehealth only]. Li Lian is a registered Clinical Psychologist who works primarily with older adolescents and adults, and enjoys working with clients of differing cultural backgrounds and presenting issues. She has experience working with anxiety disorders, depression, PTSD, anger management, addictions, as well as criminal and offending behaviours. Li Lian ensures that she creates a warm, empathetic and non-judgemental space for clients. She encourages open and honest communication to ensure that clients feel comfortable in sharing their thoughts, feelings, behaviours and any feedback about the process.
(03) 7003 2061 View (03) 7003 2061
Photo of Rodney Ts - Help Now Group, Social Worker, AMHSW
Help Now Group
Social Worker, AMHSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I provide EMDR, Gestalt, and CBT therapy for people with a wide range of issues from PTSD, Anxiety, Substance Use, Dissociation, and more
The ideal person coming into see me are committing to change for themselves. I see their ideal goals are finding peace with their trauma, anxiety, depression, and etc. I see that they are looking for a calm place even if they have not experienced this in their life before.
I provide EMDR, Gestalt, and CBT therapy for people with a wide range of issues from PTSD, Anxiety, Substance Use, Dissociation, and more
The ideal person coming into see me are committing to change for themselves. I see their ideal goals are finding peace with their trauma, anxiety, depression, and etc. I see that they are looking for a calm place even if they have not experienced this in their life before.
(02) 5133 8472 View (02) 5133 8472
Photo of Rachel Gordon, Psychotherapist, MPsych, PACFA
Rachel Gordon
Psychotherapist, MPsych, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Cammeray, NSW 2062
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 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 Holly Read - Holly Read - HR Counselling, Counsellor, AMHSW
Holly Read - HR Counselling
Counsellor, AMHSW
Serves Area
I am an Accredited Mental Health SW with over two decades of Counselling and Psychotherapy experience, I provide compassionate, client-centered counselling tailored to each individual's unique needs. My approach is trauma-informed, grounded in empathy, active listening, and evidence-based techniques to support personal growth, resilience, and well-being.
I am an Accredited Mental Health SW with over two decades of Counselling and Psychotherapy experience, I provide compassionate, client-centered counselling tailored to each individual's unique needs. My approach is trauma-informed, grounded in empathy, active listening, and evidence-based techniques to support personal growth, resilience, and well-being.
(02) 4210 5768 View (02) 4210 5768
Photo of Carolina Bustos, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Carolina Bustos
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I am a warm and non-judgmental therapist, who enjoys working collaboratively with my clients. I use a humanistic approach and a variety of evidence-based techniques to facilitate goal achievements. I work reflectively and obtain feedback from my clients to ensure treatment plans make genuine sense through their time in therapy. I provide a welcoming space for my younger clients where they feel free to express their emotions and thoughts in a safe and fun manner (play therapy, artistic activities or verbal communication). Having lived in several countries, I have a broad understanding of cultural differences and human diversity.
I am a warm and non-judgmental therapist, who enjoys working collaboratively with my clients. I use a humanistic approach and a variety of evidence-based techniques to facilitate goal achievements. I work reflectively and obtain feedback from my clients to ensure treatment plans make genuine sense through their time in therapy. I provide a welcoming space for my younger clients where they feel free to express their emotions and thoughts in a safe and fun manner (play therapy, artistic activities or verbal communication). Having lived in several countries, I have a broad understanding of cultural differences and human diversity.
(03) 6164 5011 View (03) 6164 5011
Photo of Kristy Herring - Kristy - Innisfree Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Kristy - Innisfree Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Telehealth Appointments Currently Available! If you would like to live a more fulfilling life, learn better ways to cope and feel more hope for the future, I encourage you to make contact. My style of therapy includes trauma-informed approaches that review underlying beliefs, address unwanted behaviours and thought patterns, and support improvements in your relationships. The aim of treatment is to guide you to process your emotions, talk about your feelings, and to develop practical skills that assist you to make meaningful change in your life.
Telehealth Appointments Currently Available! If you would like to live a more fulfilling life, learn better ways to cope and feel more hope for the future, I encourage you to make contact. My style of therapy includes trauma-informed approaches that review underlying beliefs, address unwanted behaviours and thought patterns, and support improvements in your relationships. The aim of treatment is to guide you to process your emotions, talk about your feelings, and to develop practical skills that assist you to make meaningful change in your life.
(02) 4503 8937 View (02) 4503 8937
Photo of Kerry McCarthy, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Kerry McCarthy
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Sydney, NSW 2000
With a special interest in supporting adult women through life stage transitions such as parenting, career, fertility, peri- and menopause, and relationships, I work collaboratively with my clients to find new strengths and solutions for personal and professional challenges. Offering online sessions nationally and in-person sessions in Sydney's Eastern Suburbs, I can address stress, anxiety, burnout, overwhelm, grief and depression. Get the care you deserve, today.
With a special interest in supporting adult women through life stage transitions such as parenting, career, fertility, peri- and menopause, and relationships, I work collaboratively with my clients to find new strengths and solutions for personal and professional challenges. Offering online sessions nationally and in-person sessions in Sydney's Eastern Suburbs, I can address stress, anxiety, burnout, overwhelm, grief and depression. Get the care you deserve, today.
(02) 8424 7577 View (02) 8424 7577
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 Dr Carollyne Youssef, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Carollyne Youssef
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Fairfield, NSW 2165
I strive to ensure my clients feel heard, understood and respected, regardless of their situation, past or concern. Taking a positive psychology and humanistic approach, I fundamentally believe that every person has a unique strength and I strive to maximise and build upon that strength. I focus on the person as a whole and want to help people be the best version of themselves. Moving away from a deficit focus, I use strengths-based approaches with my clients. I aim to continuously provide clients with respect, a collaborative approach to working on goals, with compassion and authenticity.
I strive to ensure my clients feel heard, understood and respected, regardless of their situation, past or concern. Taking a positive psychology and humanistic approach, I fundamentally believe that every person has a unique strength and I strive to maximise and build upon that strength. I focus on the person as a whole and want to help people be the best version of themselves. Moving away from a deficit focus, I use strengths-based approaches with my clients. I aim to continuously provide clients with respect, a collaborative approach to working on goals, with compassion and authenticity.
(02) 8074 5475 View (02) 8074 5475
Substance Use Therapists
How do substance and drug recovery or rehabilitation programs work?
In inpatient programs, individuals live in a facility with other clients in recovery; in outpatient programs, individuals reside at home. These facilities are staffed with healthcare professionals including physicians, nurses, psychologists, counsellors, and psychotherapists. Staff often also includes people who have recovered themselves, serving as mentors and guides. These programs may use abstinence, harm reduction, detoxification, psychotherapy, and other methods.

How do 12-step programs combined with psychotherapy work?
Members of 12-step programs help each other reach abstinence and work to maintain it. These programs promote complete change in the individual’s emotional, mental, physical, and even spiritual perspectives. Some programs require that new members attend 90 meetings in 90 days. Many people do attend these programs in conjunction with their work in psychotherapy; the combination of therapy along with 12-step can be extremely effective.

How does harm reduction combined with psychotherapy work?
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, harm reduction prevents death, injury, disease, overdose, and substance misuse. People who choose harm reduction for substance use reduce the amount of drugs they consume. It is not abstinence-based like a 12-step program, but combining harm reduction with psychotherapy proves to be effective for many people.

Are there specific medications for substance and drug use?
There are medications approved to treat substance use disorder—such as buprenorphine, methadone, naltrexone, and acamprosate. These medications do help people cope with substance use as well as avoid the problem of relapse. Naltrexone can help reduce cravings, methadone is an opioid medication used to treat severe pain, and acamprosate may help ease symptoms like poor sleep and anxious feelings.