Depression Psychologists and Therapists in Willoughby, NSW

Photo of Sarah Bays, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Sarah Bays
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
Want to create the life you want and reach your potential? Could you do with a little help to solve your problems? Well that's what I'm all about! I'm an experienced counsellor and psychotherapist and I work with individuals, couples & families from a trauma-informed and client-led perspective. I'm kind but direct when needed, and support in a solutions focused manner. I love to laugh, and enjoy helping people work through challenges and achieve their goals. I'm a certified DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy) practitioner and run DBT Skills groups or individual DBT sessions in person & online.
Want to create the life you want and reach your potential? Could you do with a little help to solve your problems? Well that's what I'm all about! I'm an experienced counsellor and psychotherapist and I work with individuals, couples & families from a trauma-informed and client-led perspective. I'm kind but direct when needed, and support in a solutions focused manner. I love to laugh, and enjoy helping people work through challenges and achieve their goals. I'm a certified DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy) practitioner and run DBT Skills groups or individual DBT sessions in person & online.
(02) 9100 0134 View (02) 9100 0134
Photo of Eddy Chiu - Biinu, Psychologist, MSc, MAPS
Biinu
Psychologist, MSc, MAPS
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
From collaborating with different people through therapy over the years, I have noticed that even everyday people feel the effects of modern life on their mental health. This is because modern life comes with a lot of complexity and demands. Today, people pursue a combination of identity, lifestyle, fulfilment, achievement, supportive relationships, a work-life balance, financial gain, career progression, a bigger world purpose, and more. The pursuit is wonderful, however navigating these demands can strain our mental health over time.
From collaborating with different people through therapy over the years, I have noticed that even everyday people feel the effects of modern life on their mental health. This is because modern life comes with a lot of complexity and demands. Today, people pursue a combination of identity, lifestyle, fulfilment, achievement, supportive relationships, a work-life balance, financial gain, career progression, a bigger world purpose, and more. The pursuit is wonderful, however navigating these demands can strain our mental health over time.
(02) 9100 0528 View (02) 9100 0528
Photo of Jennifer Gripton-Corbett - Jennifer Gripton-Corbett Counselling&Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Jennifer Gripton-Corbett Counselling&Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
Jennifer is a Clinical Counsellor & Psychotherapist who provides Individual, Couple & Family Counselling. Counselling approach is trauma-informed and person-centred, utilising evidence-based therapy with people who are experiencing relationship issues, are stressed, grieving, or experiencing mental health concerns. Space is provided to empower the client to work collaboratively to achieve growth, change, increased well-being and new possibilities. She is a Clinical Member of PACFA and an Accredited Clinical Supervisor. Jennifer has had her own private practice for over 10 years and has been a Lifeline counsellor.
Jennifer is a Clinical Counsellor & Psychotherapist who provides Individual, Couple & Family Counselling. Counselling approach is trauma-informed and person-centred, utilising evidence-based therapy with people who are experiencing relationship issues, are stressed, grieving, or experiencing mental health concerns. Space is provided to empower the client to work collaboratively to achieve growth, change, increased well-being and new possibilities. She is a Clinical Member of PACFA and an Accredited Clinical Supervisor. Jennifer has had her own private practice for over 10 years and has been a Lifeline counsellor.
(02) 9100 0873 View (02) 9100 0873
Photo of Carrie Kilburn, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Carrie Kilburn
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
I specialise in working people who struggle with trauma, self-worth, depression, and relationships.
My psychotherapy approach has a heritage that stems from Hakomi Somatic Psychotherapy and Brainspotting Psychotherapy. Each session is designed to help you to discover and work with the processes that unconsciously create and maintain the way you experience life and relationships. It is mindful, somatic, and insightful.
I specialise in working people who struggle with trauma, self-worth, depression, and relationships.
My psychotherapy approach has a heritage that stems from Hakomi Somatic Psychotherapy and Brainspotting Psychotherapy. Each session is designed to help you to discover and work with the processes that unconsciously create and maintain the way you experience life and relationships. It is mindful, somatic, and insightful.
0423 737 922 View 0423 737 922
Photo of Janet Yap, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Janet Yap
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I am a clinical psychologist with over 15 years experience in supporting adults on their mental health journey. I have expertise in working with people who are experiencing challenges in coping with the stress of everyday life - whether that is in managing difficult relationships, parenting, work-related stress or general burnout and anxiety. I am also passionate about helping people break free from childhood and family dysfunction that has impacted on their capacity to live full and meaningful lives. I have particular expertise in treating adults with emotion dysregulation and unhelpful coping behaviours.
I am a clinical psychologist with over 15 years experience in supporting adults on their mental health journey. I have expertise in working with people who are experiencing challenges in coping with the stress of everyday life - whether that is in managing difficult relationships, parenting, work-related stress or general burnout and anxiety. I am also passionate about helping people break free from childhood and family dysfunction that has impacted on their capacity to live full and meaningful lives. I have particular expertise in treating adults with emotion dysregulation and unhelpful coping behaviours.
(02) 9100 0565 View (02) 9100 0565
Photo of Sanchana Venkatesh, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Ed. Psych.
Sanchana Venkatesh
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Ed. Psych.
Serves Area
I have a special interest in working with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, imposter syndrome, trauma, adjusting to chronic illnesses, grief and loss, life transitions (e.g. career, stage of life, migration, relationship breakdown), depression, OCD, tics & Tourettes.
I have been practising as a psychologist since 2008 & have worked extensively with adolescents & adults from culturally & linguistically diverse backgrounds with a wide range of presentations. I am trained in a cognitive-behavioural therapy called Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) in Australia & overseas & also use DBT & compassion-focussed approaches.
I have a special interest in working with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, imposter syndrome, trauma, adjusting to chronic illnesses, grief and loss, life transitions (e.g. career, stage of life, migration, relationship breakdown), depression, OCD, tics & Tourettes.
I have been practising as a psychologist since 2008 & have worked extensively with adolescents & adults from culturally & linguistically diverse backgrounds with a wide range of presentations. I am trained in a cognitive-behavioural therapy called Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) in Australia & overseas & also use DBT & compassion-focussed approaches.
(02) 9100 0086 View (02) 9100 0086
Photo of Nina Thompson, Counsellor, PACFA
Nina Thompson
Counsellor, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
​I have experience working with the following: anxiety / overwhelm / depression / trauma / relationship issues / disordered eating / OCD / addiction recovery and general life challenges,
Using a range of techniques and a compassionate, tailored approach, I guide clients to understand themselves better and love themselves more. ​I aim to foster trust, authenticity, and a genuine partnership on your path to healing, resilience and well-being.
​I have experience working with the following: anxiety / overwhelm / depression / trauma / relationship issues / disordered eating / OCD / addiction recovery and general life challenges,
Using a range of techniques and a compassionate, tailored approach, I guide clients to understand themselves better and love themselves more. ​I aim to foster trust, authenticity, and a genuine partnership on your path to healing, resilience and well-being.
(02) 9100 0186 View (02) 9100 0186
Photo of Elizabeth Nagy, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Elizabeth Nagy
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialise in supporting people who are experiencing change or loss, whether that be in their career, family structure, or due to the ageing process and for women in particular, the impacts of Menopause. It might be that you are managing overwhelm at work, issues such as burnout, change in role, loss of job and retirement. Or perhaps you are adjusting to parenthood, to divorce, to loss through the death of a partner, loss of family through estrangement or when your children start to leave home. I am also an approved counsellor with Victims Services NSW and can support those experiencing domestic and family violence.
I specialise in supporting people who are experiencing change or loss, whether that be in their career, family structure, or due to the ageing process and for women in particular, the impacts of Menopause. It might be that you are managing overwhelm at work, issues such as burnout, change in role, loss of job and retirement. Or perhaps you are adjusting to parenthood, to divorce, to loss through the death of a partner, loss of family through estrangement or when your children start to leave home. I am also an approved counsellor with Victims Services NSW and can support those experiencing domestic and family violence.
(02) 9100 0894 View (02) 9100 0894
Photo of Ami X Zong, Psychotherapist, MA
Ami X Zong
Psychotherapist, MA
1 Endorsed
Willoughby, NSW 2068
You may appear to be coping on the outside, while inside feeling quite lost, empty, or disconnected. Others may not see it, but you might feel far away from yourself, unsure of who you are or what you truly want. Many people try to move away from this through achievement, relationships, or constant busyness — but sooner or later, something brings them back to a deeper question of themselves. In therapy, we begin to slow things down and make space for what is there. It becomes a place where you can start to understand your inner world, and gently find your way back towards yourself.
You may appear to be coping on the outside, while inside feeling quite lost, empty, or disconnected. Others may not see it, but you might feel far away from yourself, unsure of who you are or what you truly want. Many people try to move away from this through achievement, relationships, or constant busyness — but sooner or later, something brings them back to a deeper question of themselves. In therapy, we begin to slow things down and make space for what is there. It becomes a place where you can start to understand your inner world, and gently find your way back towards yourself.
0479 125 822 View 0479 125 822
Photo of Cheene Manalo, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Cheene Manalo
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Willoughby, NSW 2068
Waitlist for new clients
I am a SIRA accredited practitioner and can provide either teIehealth or in person session with clients. I adopt a person-centred and collaborative approach with clients, drawing on a range of evidence-based therapies (e.g CBT, DBT, EMDR). I have an experience working with individuals who have learning disabilities, those in aged care, WorkCover clients with psychological injuries, and currently providing services to individuals on remand in one of the maximum-security correctional facilities in Sydney, NSW.
I am a SIRA accredited practitioner and can provide either teIehealth or in person session with clients. I adopt a person-centred and collaborative approach with clients, drawing on a range of evidence-based therapies (e.g CBT, DBT, EMDR). I have an experience working with individuals who have learning disabilities, those in aged care, WorkCover clients with psychological injuries, and currently providing services to individuals on remand in one of the maximum-security correctional facilities in Sydney, NSW.
(02) 8105 5871 View (02) 8105 5871
Photo of Kathryn Cordier, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Kathryn Cordier
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Willoughby, NSW 2068
My therapy style is client focussed, warm and insightful. I provide practical strategies for clients to develop greater self awareness and resilience so they can create positive change in their lives. Over-arching this, my primary intention is that clients leave having felt safe, heard and encouraged.
My therapy style is client focussed, warm and insightful. I provide practical strategies for clients to develop greater self awareness and resilience so they can create positive change in their lives. Over-arching this, my primary intention is that clients leave having felt safe, heard and encouraged.
(02) 9158 6106 View (02) 9158 6106
Photo of Brandon Scherrer, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Brandon Scherrer
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Willoughby, NSW 2068
Clinical psychologist (registrar) in Sydney experienced with children, teenagers and adults: ADHD, anxiety, relationships, trauma/PTSD, depression, stress, OCD, BPD, addictions (drug/alcohol/gambling/internet), tics, personality and eating disorders.
My approach to treatment is evidence-based. I deliver therapy that is progress orientated and outcome focused. I am trained in a variety of therapies including; CBT, DBT, ACT, FBT (Maudsley) for eating disorders, psychodynamic (including transference focused psychotherapy) and solution-focused therapies.
Clinical psychologist (registrar) in Sydney experienced with children, teenagers and adults: ADHD, anxiety, relationships, trauma/PTSD, depression, stress, OCD, BPD, addictions (drug/alcohol/gambling/internet), tics, personality and eating disorders.
My approach to treatment is evidence-based. I deliver therapy that is progress orientated and outcome focused. I am trained in a variety of therapies including; CBT, DBT, ACT, FBT (Maudsley) for eating disorders, psychodynamic (including transference focused psychotherapy) and solution-focused therapies.
(02) 9100 0658 View (02) 9100 0658
Photo of Kylie Finlayson - Kylie Finlayson, Principal Psychologist, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Kylie Finlayson, Principal Psychologist
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Serves Area
Kylie’s psychology practice focuses on the treatment of adults experiencing a variety of problems including anxiety, stress, depression, anger management and emotional dysregulation, PTSD, and adult ADHD.
Kylie is a registered psychologist and Board approved supervisor. She has experience in both private and government settings in NSW and New Zealand, providing assessment and treatment services for a range of adult clients with complex clinical and forensic needs. She brings a warm, authentic and honest approach to her work.
Kylie’s psychology practice focuses on the treatment of adults experiencing a variety of problems including anxiety, stress, depression, anger management and emotional dysregulation, PTSD, and adult ADHD.
Kylie is a registered psychologist and Board approved supervisor. She has experience in both private and government settings in NSW and New Zealand, providing assessment and treatment services for a range of adult clients with complex clinical and forensic needs. She brings a warm, authentic and honest approach to her work.
(02) 9100 0436 View (02) 9100 0436
Photo of Daniel He, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Daniel He
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I work with clients that struggle with chronic depressive symptoms and persistent anxiety that get in the way of their life and/or their relationships.
“I believe that every individual will experience challenges throughout their lives and that those experiences can shape the way a person can feel, think and behave with the world around them and in their interpersonal relationships. Often we attempt to protect ourselves from feeling difficult emotions through behaving in a way that is taking us away from living the life we want. I believe that building a deep understanding and connection to the core of our emotional experience can provide understanding and clarity to promote emotional and behavioural change and mental wellbeing.”
I work with clients that struggle with chronic depressive symptoms and persistent anxiety that get in the way of their life and/or their relationships.
“I believe that every individual will experience challenges throughout their lives and that those experiences can shape the way a person can feel, think and behave with the world around them and in their interpersonal relationships. Often we attempt to protect ourselves from feeling difficult emotions through behaving in a way that is taking us away from living the life we want. I believe that building a deep understanding and connection to the core of our emotional experience can provide understanding and clarity to promote emotional and behavioural change and mental wellbeing.”
(02) 9100 0643 View (02) 9100 0643
Photo of Travis Grogan, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Travis Grogan
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I have a broad range of expertise in mental health, focusing on areas such as depression, anxiety, the array of relationship challenges, substance use, emotional regulation, social skills, identity, self-esteem, and interpersonal relationships.
The two main reasons I’ve found in my practice that people put off getting therapy are cost and fear of getting a therapist they don’t gel with. Thinking about it in reverse, therapy is costly, but it's also incredibly valuable. And unfortunately, to find a therapist you’ll gel with might take a few attempts, but I can help you there.
I have a broad range of expertise in mental health, focusing on areas such as depression, anxiety, the array of relationship challenges, substance use, emotional regulation, social skills, identity, self-esteem, and interpersonal relationships.
The two main reasons I’ve found in my practice that people put off getting therapy are cost and fear of getting a therapist they don’t gel with. Thinking about it in reverse, therapy is costly, but it's also incredibly valuable. And unfortunately, to find a therapist you’ll gel with might take a few attempts, but I can help you there.
(02) 9100 0027 View (02) 9100 0027
Photo of Dr Tamara Robins, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Tamara Robins
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
I enjoy working with teens 15+ and adults to build meaning and purpose in life and help navigate challenges such as anxiety, OCD, depression, work, study and parenting stress and burnout, PTSD and complex trauma.
I am a genuine and caring therapist with many years of experience. I am trained in evidence based therapies including CBT, ACT, DBT, EMDR, mindfulness based therapy, self compassion and trauma informed therapy. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them move into building thriving and enjoyment in life.
I enjoy working with teens 15+ and adults to build meaning and purpose in life and help navigate challenges such as anxiety, OCD, depression, work, study and parenting stress and burnout, PTSD and complex trauma.
I am a genuine and caring therapist with many years of experience. I am trained in evidence based therapies including CBT, ACT, DBT, EMDR, mindfulness based therapy, self compassion and trauma informed therapy. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them move into building thriving and enjoyment in life.
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Photo of Cathy Lee - Holding the Space, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L1
Holding the Space
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L1
Online Only
Gentle, body-based therapy to help you feel safer, calmer, and more connected. You might feel anxious, disconnected, overwhelmed—or like you’re holding it all together but never quite landing. Maybe your body feels tense or shut down. Maybe you long for more ease, more self-trust, or simply a space where you don’t have to work so hard to be okay. Whether you’re new to therapy or looking for a deeper, more embodied approach, you’re welcome here. Together, we move gently—toward safety, connection, and change that lasts.
Gentle, body-based therapy to help you feel safer, calmer, and more connected. You might feel anxious, disconnected, overwhelmed—or like you’re holding it all together but never quite landing. Maybe your body feels tense or shut down. Maybe you long for more ease, more self-trust, or simply a space where you don’t have to work so hard to be okay. Whether you’re new to therapy or looking for a deeper, more embodied approach, you’re welcome here. Together, we move gently—toward safety, connection, and change that lasts.
(02) 9100 0362 View (02) 9100 0362
Photo of Matt White, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Matt White
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I am a registered psychologist in Crows Nest providing therapy for anxiety, trauma, depression, addiction, anger, men’s mental health and life transitions.
I offer practical, evidence-based therapy using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and schema-informed approaches. My work focuses on helping you understand patterns, manage difficult emotions, reduce overthinking and build resilience.
I am a registered psychologist in Crows Nest providing therapy for anxiety, trauma, depression, addiction, anger, men’s mental health and life transitions.
I offer practical, evidence-based therapy using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and schema-informed approaches. My work focuses on helping you understand patterns, manage difficult emotions, reduce overthinking and build resilience.
0485 974 816 View 0485 974 816
Photo of Magdalena Pietrusik, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Magdalena Pietrusik
Counsellor, ACA-L1
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Magdalena, but you can call me Maggie. I’m a counsellor with a background in psychology who supports people feeling stuck, anxious, overwhelmed, or unsure of their next steps. Life’s demands can leave you feeling low or confused by your emotions. I offer a calm, non-judgmental space to explore what’s going on and understand your feelings better, so you can work with them, not against them. My strength-based approach helps you build self-esteem, recognize your inner resources, and move toward a life that feels more aligned and empowering.
Hi, I’m Magdalena, but you can call me Maggie. I’m a counsellor with a background in psychology who supports people feeling stuck, anxious, overwhelmed, or unsure of their next steps. Life’s demands can leave you feeling low or confused by your emotions. I offer a calm, non-judgmental space to explore what’s going on and understand your feelings better, so you can work with them, not against them. My strength-based approach helps you build self-esteem, recognize your inner resources, and move toward a life that feels more aligned and empowering.
(02) 4012 8016 View (02) 4012 8016
Photo of Aarthi Udayakumar, Counsellor, PACFA
Aarthi Udayakumar
Counsellor, PACFA
Serves Area
I am a registered Clinical Counsellor with PACFA, with 14 years of experience supporting individuals, families, and couples through challenges such as domestic and family violence, trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and child wellbeing.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Person-Centred Therapy Motivational Interviewing (MI) Solution-Focused Therapy Creative and Play Therapy (for children and families)
I am a registered Clinical Counsellor with PACFA, with 14 years of experience supporting individuals, families, and couples through challenges such as domestic and family violence, trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and child wellbeing.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Person-Centred Therapy Motivational Interviewing (MI) Solution-Focused Therapy Creative and Play Therapy (for children and families)
(02) 9100 0497 View (02) 9100 0497
Depression Therapists
What is the goal of therapy for depression?
Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognise and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?
Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?
Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioural activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?
Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?
Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.