Adoption Psychologists and Therapists in Woollahra, NSW

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
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
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
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
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
Amanda Gordon
Psychologist, Hon FAPS
Serves Area
I have worked with individuals and couples for over thirty years, helping them negotiate the struggles of life in this time of quick change, uncertainty and significant social pressure. Relationships are the first victims when people become anxious or challenged in their lives. Yet I believe relationships are the core to good mental health and personal development. These issues are relevant to people of all ages, and not specific to gender, race or religion. The presenting symptom could be grief, anxiety, depression, arguments, irritability or any form of dysfunctional behaviour - the underlying issue has to be addressed.
I have worked with individuals and couples for over thirty years, helping them negotiate the struggles of life in this time of quick change, uncertainty and significant social pressure. Relationships are the first victims when people become anxious or challenged in their lives. Yet I believe relationships are the core to good mental health and personal development. These issues are relevant to people of all ages, and not specific to gender, race or religion. The presenting symptom could be grief, anxiety, depression, arguments, irritability or any form of dysfunctional behaviour - the underlying issue has to be addressed.
(02) 9053 4575 View (02) 9053 4575
Calum Johal
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
We all face challenges in life. Whether it be feeling emotionally down, or anxious, or within our close personal relationships or our career. I believe that most people in these situations have a sense that something isn't right for them, but feel stuck on what to do about it. "I'm not totally happy in my relationship, but I love this person and want to make it work", "I'm unhappy at work, but I don't know what steps I can take to change things". People want clarity, my job is to work with them to find it.
We all face challenges in life. Whether it be feeling emotionally down, or anxious, or within our close personal relationships or our career. I believe that most people in these situations have a sense that something isn't right for them, but feel stuck on what to do about it. "I'm not totally happy in my relationship, but I love this person and want to make it work", "I'm unhappy at work, but I don't know what steps I can take to change things". People want clarity, my job is to work with them to find it.
(02) 9100 0025 View (02) 9100 0025
Peter Jones
Psychologist, MSc, MAPS
Online Only
I work with Adults. Many, but not all of my clients are Business Executives/Owners, or Professionals. They often have a mix of personal & professional/workplace difficulties they need help with. Anxiety and depression are common. As are relationship issues & loss. The problem may involve unrecognised personality issues or challenging emotions like anger, guilt & shame. It may be that there are unconscious ways of functioning/relating that cause us unnecessary pain and suffering, which are amenable to therapy.
I work with Adults. Many, but not all of my clients are Business Executives/Owners, or Professionals. They often have a mix of personal & professional/workplace difficulties they need help with. Anxiety and depression are common. As are relationship issues & loss. The problem may involve unrecognised personality issues or challenging emotions like anger, guilt & shame. It may be that there are unconscious ways of functioning/relating that cause us unnecessary pain and suffering, which are amenable to therapy.
(02) 8503 4154 View (02) 8503 4154

More Therapists Nearby

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
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
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
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
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
Jodie Gale
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Manly, NSW 2095
You may look like you’re coping, but inside you feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or not good enough. You might turn to food for comfort, control, or relief, then feel shame, guilt, or self-criticism afterwards. Many of the women I work with carry the impact of early trauma, emotional neglect, or difficult mother–daughter relationships that continue to shape how they feel about themselves. Some feel stuck in patterns they don’t understand, while others are quietly asking, “who am I, really?” and longing for a deeper, more meaningful connection with themselves, their body, and their inner world.
You may look like you’re coping, but inside you feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or not good enough. You might turn to food for comfort, control, or relief, then feel shame, guilt, or self-criticism afterwards. Many of the women I work with carry the impact of early trauma, emotional neglect, or difficult mother–daughter relationships that continue to shape how they feel about themselves. Some feel stuck in patterns they don’t understand, while others are quietly asking, “who am I, really?” and longing for a deeper, more meaningful connection with themselves, their body, and their inner world.
(02) 8294 7627 View (02) 8294 7627
Kyla Edinburg
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I have particular experience with: Complex trauma and chronic PTSD · Personality disorders · Relationship and couples difficulties · Sexual difficulties · Depression and anxiety · Eating disorders · Pre- and postnatal difficulties · Adoption-related issues
If you're carrying something that feels too complicated, too shameful, or too long-standing to bring to the people in your life, you may be ready for a space where none of that has to be simplified. I'm a clinical psychologist with over 15 years of experience, trained in South Africa and now practicing in Australia since 2020. That background has given me genuine exposure to a wide range of people, cultures, and presentations and a deep respect for how differently life's difficulties can show up depending on who you are and where you've come from.
I have particular experience with: Complex trauma and chronic PTSD · Personality disorders · Relationship and couples difficulties · Sexual difficulties · Depression and anxiety · Eating disorders · Pre- and postnatal difficulties · Adoption-related issues
If you're carrying something that feels too complicated, too shameful, or too long-standing to bring to the people in your life, you may be ready for a space where none of that has to be simplified. I'm a clinical psychologist with over 15 years of experience, trained in South Africa and now practicing in Australia since 2020. That background has given me genuine exposure to a wide range of people, cultures, and presentations and a deep respect for how differently life's difficulties can show up depending on who you are and where you've come from.
(02) 9100 0409 View (02) 9100 0409
Denie Pentecost
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Saratoga, NSW 2251
As our world rapidly changes around us more people are reaching a crossroads and are looking for that "something more". This may be within yourself, within your relationships, out in the world and even beyond, to the spiritual. You may be unsure of just what that something is and you need support to uncover, resolve or heal it. Sometimes our life journey leaves us with stress, pain, trauma, struggle with identity and this can lead us to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as anxiety, depression, addiction and disconnection. I am a member of GANZ and PACFA (clinical member)
As our world rapidly changes around us more people are reaching a crossroads and are looking for that "something more". This may be within yourself, within your relationships, out in the world and even beyond, to the spiritual. You may be unsure of just what that something is and you need support to uncover, resolve or heal it. Sometimes our life journey leaves us with stress, pain, trauma, struggle with identity and this can lead us to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as anxiety, depression, addiction and disconnection. I am a member of GANZ and PACFA (clinical member)
(02) 8417 3142 View (02) 8417 3142
Michelle Crowe
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Balmain, NSW 2041
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected? Whether you're struggling with anxiety, stress, relationship challenges, past trauma including abuse and sexual abuse, or navigating a major life transition, you're not alone. Life can feel heavy at times, and reaching out for support is a courageous first step. As a counsellor with over 14 years of experience, I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental, safe space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions and challenges. My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to your unique needs. I am also a supervisor and can support you in setting up or expanding your business.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected? Whether you're struggling with anxiety, stress, relationship challenges, past trauma including abuse and sexual abuse, or navigating a major life transition, you're not alone. Life can feel heavy at times, and reaching out for support is a courageous first step. As a counsellor with over 14 years of experience, I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental, safe space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions and challenges. My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to your unique needs. I am also a supervisor and can support you in setting up or expanding your business.
(03) 4823 4853 View (03) 4823 4853
Rabia Muqtadir
Counsellor, PhD, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
At times, life can feel like a lot to handle. You might be dealing with stress, anxiety, low mood, or challenges in your relationships that leave you feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure where to turn. If any of this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. I work with individuals/couples/families from all walks of life, including those navigating cultural or family expectations that can impact confidence, relationships, and sense of self. I offer a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental space where you can explore, heal and grow.
At times, life can feel like a lot to handle. You might be dealing with stress, anxiety, low mood, or challenges in your relationships that leave you feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure where to turn. If any of this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. I work with individuals/couples/families from all walks of life, including those navigating cultural or family expectations that can impact confidence, relationships, and sense of self. I offer a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental space where you can explore, heal and grow.
(02) 5133 8847 View (02) 5133 8847
Thinkahead
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Frenchs Forest, NSW 2086
Are you suffering a mental health condition? Are you struggling dealing with your childs behaviour or simply need an assessment for learning difficulties/ADHD/ASD? You may simply be feeling a little lost with little direction and clarity. If this is you, then make a change today and reach out and speak to one of our clinicians. We use a multidisciplinary approach and have a team of Psychologists, Occupational Therapist, Behaviour Therapists, Speech Pathologists, Art Therapists, Learning/ Remedial Support Teachers, Physiotherapists. We see NDIS, AccessPlus, Medicare, WC, CTP, VS, EAP clients
Are you suffering a mental health condition? Are you struggling dealing with your childs behaviour or simply need an assessment for learning difficulties/ADHD/ASD? You may simply be feeling a little lost with little direction and clarity. If this is you, then make a change today and reach out and speak to one of our clinicians. We use a multidisciplinary approach and have a team of Psychologists, Occupational Therapist, Behaviour Therapists, Speech Pathologists, Art Therapists, Learning/ Remedial Support Teachers, Physiotherapists. We see NDIS, AccessPlus, Medicare, WC, CTP, VS, EAP clients
(02) 9053 4507 View (02) 9053 4507
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
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.