Addiction Counselling in Wollongong, NSW

Photo of Tracey Rovere, ACA-L2, Psychotherapist
Tracey Rovere
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Tracey Rovere Psychotherapist, Marriage Counsellor and Relationship Coach addresses many challenges that come with partnerships and relationships. Areas of counselling include; disconnection of intimacy, infidelity, trust issues, difficulty in communication, conflict and working through separation if necessary. The counselling process can help to enhance the friendship and support couples to feel more connected with one another. Other concerns in relationships such as substance use, alcohol addiction, gambling addiction, trauma and attachment concerns are also explored in our practice to help you move forward.
Tracey Rovere Psychotherapist, Marriage Counsellor and Relationship Coach addresses many challenges that come with partnerships and relationships. Areas of counselling include; disconnection of intimacy, infidelity, trust issues, difficulty in communication, conflict and working through separation if necessary. The counselling process can help to enhance the friendship and support couples to feel more connected with one another. Other concerns in relationships such as substance use, alcohol addiction, gambling addiction, trauma and attachment concerns are also explored in our practice to help you move forward.
(02) 4210 9059 View (02) 4210 9059
Photo of Oliver Lewis, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Oliver Lewis
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Online Only
I also have lived experience with addiction and appreciate the importance of confidentiality and discretion when addressing substance use and mental health issues.
I am a qualified counsellor/psychotherapist based in Canberra who specialises in trauma and addiction. I have extensive experience in the not-for-profit and private sectors, supporting adults with mental health and psychosocial conditions, such as PTSD, CPTSD, substance use disorders, personality disorders, anxiety and depression. I’m an accredited EMDR practitioner, a registered clinical counsellor with PACFA and a qualified Social Worker and member of the AASW. I provide online psychotherapy sessions to adults (aged 18 and over) across all regions of Australia.
I also have lived experience with addiction and appreciate the importance of confidentiality and discretion when addressing substance use and mental health issues.
I am a qualified counsellor/psychotherapist based in Canberra who specialises in trauma and addiction. I have extensive experience in the not-for-profit and private sectors, supporting adults with mental health and psychosocial conditions, such as PTSD, CPTSD, substance use disorders, personality disorders, anxiety and depression. I’m an accredited EMDR practitioner, a registered clinical counsellor with PACFA and a qualified Social Worker and member of the AASW. I provide online psychotherapy sessions to adults (aged 18 and over) across all regions of Australia.
(02) 5135 1932 View (02) 5135 1932
Photo of Sarah Irish, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Sarah Irish
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Sarah is a registered psychologist, medicare and SIRA (work cover) provider, experienced in the assessment and treatment of a range of mental health issues including mood disorders, developmental disorders, substance misuse issues, work-related stress and grief and loss. Sarah works with children, young people and adults alike. She is passionate about helping others to achieve meaningful change, and she is trained in utilising a variety of evidence-based therapeutic strategies to help her clients achieve their goals.
Sarah is a registered psychologist, medicare and SIRA (work cover) provider, experienced in the assessment and treatment of a range of mental health issues including mood disorders, developmental disorders, substance misuse issues, work-related stress and grief and loss. Sarah works with children, young people and adults alike. She is passionate about helping others to achieve meaningful change, and she is trained in utilising a variety of evidence-based therapeutic strategies to help her clients achieve their goals.
(02) 4214 4008 View (02) 4214 4008
Photo of Holly Read, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Holly Read
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Waitlist for new clients
I also hold specialist knowledge and experience supporting people to address substance use issues, and/or addiction challenges.
I have been supporting adults & young people with their mental health challenges for over 20 years, working with diverse populations. Including, over 13 years of experience working with a range of presenting issues in the field of clinical adolescent mental health and Indigenous health. With extensive counselling and psychotherapy experience obtained in a variety of setting including, but not limited to; private practise, NSW Health Dept., Corrective Services, Education Dept., Universities, private detox, and rehabilitation services.
I also hold specialist knowledge and experience supporting people to address substance use issues, and/or addiction challenges.
I have been supporting adults & young people with their mental health challenges for over 20 years, working with diverse populations. Including, over 13 years of experience working with a range of presenting issues in the field of clinical adolescent mental health and Indigenous health. With extensive counselling and psychotherapy experience obtained in a variety of setting including, but not limited to; private practise, NSW Health Dept., Corrective Services, Education Dept., Universities, private detox, and rehabilitation services.
(02) 4210 5768 View (02) 4210 5768
Photo of Jacob Amna Pervaiz Montoya - Counselling Wollongong, MPsych, PACFA, Counsellor
Counselling Wollongong
Counsellor, MPsych, PACFA
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Amna and Jacob specialise in couples counselling as well as catering to all of the individual counselling needs like depression, anxiety, suicidality, addiction, family issues and just about every thing that we deal with in the human condition.
Jacob and Amna will help you...“Once you understand the four mechanisms that determine why different parts of your ‘self’ do disturbing behaviours, then you can begin to compassionately change your behaviours in a sustainable way” Child mechanism an internal override of unique expression. Adolescent mechanism an attempt to override Externally. Adult mechanism an override of the Adolescent Mechanism. Self-Distraction/Medication an attempt to override seemingly overwhelming feelings. Our counsellors get the most fulfilment and satisfaction by helping people become ’emotionally independent’.
Amna and Jacob specialise in couples counselling as well as catering to all of the individual counselling needs like depression, anxiety, suicidality, addiction, family issues and just about every thing that we deal with in the human condition.
Jacob and Amna will help you...“Once you understand the four mechanisms that determine why different parts of your ‘self’ do disturbing behaviours, then you can begin to compassionately change your behaviours in a sustainable way” Child mechanism an internal override of unique expression. Adolescent mechanism an attempt to override Externally. Adult mechanism an override of the Adolescent Mechanism. Self-Distraction/Medication an attempt to override seemingly overwhelming feelings. Our counsellors get the most fulfilment and satisfaction by helping people become ’emotionally independent’.
(02) 4210 5604 View (02) 4210 5604
Photo of Tracey Fairweather - The Counselling Therapist, PACFA, Counsellor
Tracey Fairweather - The Counselling Therapist
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Specialty areas include, mental health and wellness, anxiety, depression, stress, grief, loss, addiction and self esteem, amongst many of life challenges we can face.
Hello and welcome to your Counselling Therapist Tracey. I absolutely love my work in the helping profession and would be honoured to hear your story. At times our lives can be turned upside down or spiral out of control. We can feel overwhelmed, anxious and isolated not knowing how to manage these experiences. My aim as your therapist is to listen, support and walk along side you during these difficult times. I would assist in helping you find your inner strength to empower you on your journey to a more meaningful way of life.
Specialty areas include, mental health and wellness, anxiety, depression, stress, grief, loss, addiction and self esteem, amongst many of life challenges we can face.
Hello and welcome to your Counselling Therapist Tracey. I absolutely love my work in the helping profession and would be honoured to hear your story. At times our lives can be turned upside down or spiral out of control. We can feel overwhelmed, anxious and isolated not knowing how to manage these experiences. My aim as your therapist is to listen, support and walk along side you during these difficult times. I would assist in helping you find your inner strength to empower you on your journey to a more meaningful way of life.
(02) 4607 2752 View (02) 4607 2752
Photo of Sue White, PACFA, Counsellor
Sue White
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
I practice in a trauma informed way and can assist with a wide variety of issues including; grief and loss, addiction, relationship issues, anxiety and self esteem, etc.
Feeling stuck and battling with issues that are stopping you from living the life you know is waiting for you? Why not work through those problems in a supported way to get to where you want to be. Perhaps you are overcoming grief, wanting help with an addiction, needing help with personal relationships or wanting to build confidence, overcome anxiety and step out into the world feeling positive and calm. I'm here to help you in a non judgmental and inclusive way to overcome barriers and move forward.
I practice in a trauma informed way and can assist with a wide variety of issues including; grief and loss, addiction, relationship issues, anxiety and self esteem, etc.
Feeling stuck and battling with issues that are stopping you from living the life you know is waiting for you? Why not work through those problems in a supported way to get to where you want to be. Perhaps you are overcoming grief, wanting help with an addiction, needing help with personal relationships or wanting to build confidence, overcome anxiety and step out into the world feeling positive and calm. I'm here to help you in a non judgmental and inclusive way to overcome barriers and move forward.
(02) 4210 5759 View (02) 4210 5759
Photo of Mia Kennedy - Mia Rochelle , MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Mia Rochelle
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Dealing with the impact of life stressors, PTSD, depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction can be overwhelming, but you are not alone. Mia Rochelle offers compassionate therapy tailored to your unique needs. Evidence-based therapies such as Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) empowers individuals to build resilience and move forward in their lives. Many clients report long-lasting improvements with both reduction of distress and increased mental and emotional well-being. Mia Rochelle is also an Integrative Couples therapist who uses a range of modalities including Gottman; Imago; and Emotion Focused Therapy.
Dealing with the impact of life stressors, PTSD, depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction can be overwhelming, but you are not alone. Mia Rochelle offers compassionate therapy tailored to your unique needs. Evidence-based therapies such as Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) empowers individuals to build resilience and move forward in their lives. Many clients report long-lasting improvements with both reduction of distress and increased mental and emotional well-being. Mia Rochelle is also an Integrative Couples therapist who uses a range of modalities including Gottman; Imago; and Emotion Focused Therapy.
(02) 4214 8621 View (02) 4214 8621
Lucy Patarcic - Sex Therapist & Hypnotherapist
MSc
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
I am an experienced and highly qualified Sex Therapist, Sexologist, Relationship Counsellor, General Counsellor, Sex Educator and Clinical Hypnotherapist in private practice at Bondi Junction and Wollongong (Fairy Meadow). I am passionate about helping people and find it extremely rewarding to see progress and positive changes that evolve in people’s lives. I use an integrated approach to therapy in a friendly, safe, professional & confidential environment. Expertise with Erectile Dysfunction, Premature Ejaculation, Vaginismus, Painful Sex, Desire Discrepancy, Porn Addiction, Sex Addiction, Couples Counselling, General Counselling.
I am an experienced and highly qualified Sex Therapist, Sexologist, Relationship Counsellor, General Counsellor, Sex Educator and Clinical Hypnotherapist in private practice at Bondi Junction and Wollongong (Fairy Meadow). I am passionate about helping people and find it extremely rewarding to see progress and positive changes that evolve in people’s lives. I use an integrated approach to therapy in a friendly, safe, professional & confidential environment. Expertise with Erectile Dysfunction, Premature Ejaculation, Vaginismus, Painful Sex, Desire Discrepancy, Porn Addiction, Sex Addiction, Couples Counselling, General Counselling.
(02) 4214 8422 View (02) 4214 8422
Photo of Tegan Campbell - Tegan Campbell Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Tegan Campbell Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a neuroaffirming clinician I take a client centred and strengths approach, respecting your unique neurotype and what works best for you! What might we talk about in therapy? Almost anything! Perhaps it's stress, anxiety or depression, your neurodivergent identity (ADHD/Autism), the assessment process (I conduct ADHD/Autism assessments and can provide post diagnosis support/coaching), the executive functions of the brain or substance use difficulties. Or maybe its parent support (raising neurodivergent children), strategies for time management, procrastination, emotion regulation or values identification...the list goes on!
As a neuroaffirming clinician I take a client centred and strengths approach, respecting your unique neurotype and what works best for you! What might we talk about in therapy? Almost anything! Perhaps it's stress, anxiety or depression, your neurodivergent identity (ADHD/Autism), the assessment process (I conduct ADHD/Autism assessments and can provide post diagnosis support/coaching), the executive functions of the brain or substance use difficulties. Or maybe its parent support (raising neurodivergent children), strategies for time management, procrastination, emotion regulation or values identification...the list goes on!
(07) 4515 2398 View (07) 4515 2398
Photo of Sophie Aghdami, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Sophie Aghdami
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
At the heart of my approach is a firm belief in an individual’s capacity for growth. I don’t use one particular therapy pathway; my method honours individuality, using a range of strategies for the best outcomes for you personally. Increasing self awareness is our biggest opportunity to grow. Most often, when we’re experiencing something challenging, the key piece of the puzzle is understanding why we’re feeling what we’re feeling, why we’re doing what we’re doing, and why we’re experiencing what we’re experiencing. This helps us change unhelpful cycles & behaviours. My approach is effective for a range of life’s challenges.
At the heart of my approach is a firm belief in an individual’s capacity for growth. I don’t use one particular therapy pathway; my method honours individuality, using a range of strategies for the best outcomes for you personally. Increasing self awareness is our biggest opportunity to grow. Most often, when we’re experiencing something challenging, the key piece of the puzzle is understanding why we’re feeling what we’re feeling, why we’re doing what we’re doing, and why we’re experiencing what we’re experiencing. This helps us change unhelpful cycles & behaviours. My approach is effective for a range of life’s challenges.
(08) 6147 0248 View (08) 6147 0248
Photo of Wendy Corliss Individual And Couple Therapist, MSc, ANZAP Graduate, Psychotherapist
Wendy Corliss Individual And Couple Therapist
Psychotherapist, MSc, ANZAP Graduate
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
I am a calm, compassionate, and non-judgmental individual and couple therapist. I work to develop relationships of deep trust and understanding with you. I have a great deal of experience helping people overcome complex and persistent problems. I will never give up on you. I will hold the hope for you even if you are feeling discouraged or hopeless. As a nurse practitioner as well as a psychotherapist, I can prescribe psychotropic medication if needed. I can provide medicare rebates for every session because I am also a nurse practitioner.
I am a calm, compassionate, and non-judgmental individual and couple therapist. I work to develop relationships of deep trust and understanding with you. I have a great deal of experience helping people overcome complex and persistent problems. I will never give up on you. I will hold the hope for you even if you are feeling discouraged or hopeless. As a nurse practitioner as well as a psychotherapist, I can prescribe psychotropic medication if needed. I can provide medicare rebates for every session because I am also a nurse practitioner.
(02) 9158 6638 View (02) 9158 6638
Photo of Rainbow Shiva - Walk and talk with Rainbow, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Walk and talk with Rainbow
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Embodied Processing is a technique which is used to safely meet and digest the underlying wounds, which is what often hides behind and is the driving force of many of our surface symptoms. Root-Cause Therapy is a trauma healing method that uses regression and progression practices which allow the completion of unprocessed emotions. This allows the unprocessed to finally process and no longer cause unwanted thoughts, behaviors and symptoms. Walking and Pet therapy combined decreasing anxiety and stress, reduce feelings of fear or worry, increase feelings of social support and provide motivation, stimulation and focus.
Embodied Processing is a technique which is used to safely meet and digest the underlying wounds, which is what often hides behind and is the driving force of many of our surface symptoms. Root-Cause Therapy is a trauma healing method that uses regression and progression practices which allow the completion of unprocessed emotions. This allows the unprocessed to finally process and no longer cause unwanted thoughts, behaviors and symptoms. Walking and Pet therapy combined decreasing anxiety and stress, reduce feelings of fear or worry, increase feelings of social support and provide motivation, stimulation and focus.
(02) 4210 5402 View (02) 4210 5402
Photo of Ayesha Nhem, PACFA, Counsellor
Ayesha Nhem
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Worries, frustrations, and disappointments are common in life. But no matter if your issues are current or recurrent, the right step is to seek help. Even if your problems right now feel like they're getting the best of you - know that there is help available for this! It takes courage to seek help and I'm glad you're here. You deserve to live a life that makes you excited to get up in the morning. As your therapist, I will help you deal with emotional and behavioural problems more effectively. ‌
Worries, frustrations, and disappointments are common in life. But no matter if your issues are current or recurrent, the right step is to seek help. Even if your problems right now feel like they're getting the best of you - know that there is help available for this! It takes courage to seek help and I'm glad you're here. You deserve to live a life that makes you excited to get up in the morning. As your therapist, I will help you deal with emotional and behavioural problems more effectively. ‌
(02) 4210 5091 View (02) 4210 5091
Photo of Jane Woodbridge, PhD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Jane Woodbridge
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Offering 10 session individualised DBT programs and EMDR.
Offering 10 session individualised DBT programs and EMDR.
(02) 4214 4805 View (02) 4214 4805
Photo of Fiona Bourn, PACFA, Counsellor
Fiona Bourn
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Waitlist for new clients
We have all experienced times in our lives when we just need someone to talk to, listen to us, to give us the empathy/support that we need to explore an issue safely. Someone that can assist us with navigating life’s rollercoaster, especially during times when things can feel extremely overwhelming. Fiona’s aim at Sacred Space Counselling is to be just that person for you. Fiona provides a safe/sacred warm space so that you can explore what brings you to the counselling space.
We have all experienced times in our lives when we just need someone to talk to, listen to us, to give us the empathy/support that we need to explore an issue safely. Someone that can assist us with navigating life’s rollercoaster, especially during times when things can feel extremely overwhelming. Fiona’s aim at Sacred Space Counselling is to be just that person for you. Fiona provides a safe/sacred warm space so that you can explore what brings you to the counselling space.
(02) 4214 4960 View (02) 4214 4960
Photo of Isaac Bailey - Yurandalli Counselling & Supervision, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Yurandalli Counselling & Supervision
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Online Only
Whether you're navigating personal struggles, trauma, or seeking guidance in tough times, I am here to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore your situation.
Whether you're navigating personal struggles, trauma, or seeking guidance in tough times, I am here to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore your situation.
(02) 4210 5753 View (02) 4210 5753
Photo of Dr Atanas Janackovski, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr Atanas Janackovski
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
My therapeutic approach focuses on facilitating transformation rather than merely treating symptoms. By building a strong alliance and adopting a collaborative method, we work together to find the best path toward a value-driven life of your choosing. I strive to see the world through your eyes, using a feedback-informed approach to track progress and suggest adjustments for achieving your goals.
My therapeutic approach focuses on facilitating transformation rather than merely treating symptoms. By building a strong alliance and adopting a collaborative method, we work together to find the best path toward a value-driven life of your choosing. I strive to see the world through your eyes, using a feedback-informed approach to track progress and suggest adjustments for achieving your goals.
(02) 4214 8005 View (02) 4214 8005
Photo of Gary Bunker, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Gary Bunker
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Do you feel like the people around you need you to be strong, but you feel like you’re about to break, or have already broken? Does a voice in your head criticise everything you do and leave you feeling miserable and alone? Are you feeling like you're different from everyone around you? You’re not alone, you’re not broken, and there is a way to change those feelings and to handle those pressures and fears. You might be looking for solutions and feeling trapped, or hopeless. You’re not trapped, and there is hope - you just need someone to share this with, and to help you see your way forward. That’s what I do.
Do you feel like the people around you need you to be strong, but you feel like you’re about to break, or have already broken? Does a voice in your head criticise everything you do and leave you feeling miserable and alone? Are you feeling like you're different from everyone around you? You’re not alone, you’re not broken, and there is a way to change those feelings and to handle those pressures and fears. You might be looking for solutions and feeling trapped, or hopeless. You’re not trapped, and there is hope - you just need someone to share this with, and to help you see your way forward. That’s what I do.
(02) 4210 5562 View (02) 4210 5562
Photo of Karen Lee Isbister - Becoming Whole, Psychotherapist
Becoming Whole
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Karen brings the value of 20 years experience. Are you a determined, smart, driven and creative adult or teenager? Do you try hard but things that used to work don’t seem to be working anymore? Are you experiencing any of the following? : – Anxiety – Childhood Trauma – Guilt – Depression – Abuse – Shame – Conflict – Lack of Direction – Unmet Needs – Addictions – Bullying – Peer Pressure – Communication Barriers – Emotional Pain
Karen brings the value of 20 years experience. Are you a determined, smart, driven and creative adult or teenager? Do you try hard but things that used to work don’t seem to be working anymore? Are you experiencing any of the following? : – Anxiety – Childhood Trauma – Guilt – Depression – Abuse – Shame – Conflict – Lack of Direction – Unmet Needs – Addictions – Bullying – Peer Pressure – Communication Barriers – Emotional Pain
(02) 4214 4861 View (02) 4214 4861
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Addiction Counsellors

What is the best therapy for addiction?

Addiction treatment will be tailored to the individual. People seeking help for addiction—whether with a psychotherapist, in an outpatient clinic, or in a residential program—should expect to engage in multiple types of treatments, sometimes including medication. For anyone recovering from addiction, avoiding situations in which one has typically used a substance is essential, as is the support of close connections. Since substance use disorders tend to co-occur with underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression, those must also be addressed as part of any recovery plan.

How long does therapy for addiction take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from addiction. Patients and their families should expect the work to last several months, if not longer. Residential treatment programs may be based on a stay of 30, 60, or 90 days, with continuing work after release, but only about 1 percent of people are treated in such facilities. Ceasing use is just the first step; therapy to help maintain abstinence and effect behavior change must follow. The process of recovery, neuroscience has shown, involves brain cells recovering the capacity to respond to natural sources of reward and restore control over the impulse to use. Another definition of recovery is restoring voluntary control over one’s substance use and retaking all of one’s previous responsibilities.

How effective is drug addiction treatment?

Substance use disorders are treatable and remission is achievable for many who seek recovery; by some estimates, more than three-quarters of people who become addicted to alcohol or drugs recover. But that success rarely occurs quickly or on a set timeline; relapse is not only common, but many therapists and clinicians view it as a normal part of the process—not always a sign that a person has returned to addiction, but a signal that their treatment should be adjusted to help them regain control. Overall, research suggests, five years after the end of substance use, one’s risk of relapse is no greater than that of others who had not faced addiction. Other experts believe that complete abstinence is not the only measure of recovery, and that, through effective treatment, many people can learn to control their use.

How can you get addiction treatment for someone?

The most important factor in recovery from addiction is widely understood to be an individual’s commitment to change. For that reason,“interventions” in which friends and family gather to urge or force someone to begin immediate treatment often backfire; even when such efforts do lead someone to begin treatment, they may be less likely to stay than those who are self-driven. Still, family members can play an important role in supporting an individual who seeks help and can take part in family therapy as one element of a loved one’s treatment.