FAQ'S

A psychologist is a university trained professional who has at least 4 years of university training and two years of supervised practical experience. The term ‘psychologist’ is protected which means that only those who have received the requisite training may use the name.

I specialize in anxiety disorders among adults. These may include Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Social Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Phobias, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). While my primary focus is anxiety, I also have widespread experience in addressing other mental health issues such as depression, mood disorders, trauma and stress-related conditions.

While we are all anxious at times and anxiety is very important in protecting us from danger, increasing motivation and improving performance, it becomes a problem when the response exceeds the severity of the threat, or the response is prolonged and interferes with a person’s life.

An anxiety disorder is a complex and often debilitating mental health condition characterized by excessive worry, fear, and apprehension. It goes beyond the normal stress response, impacting both thoughts and physical sensations. Individuals with anxiety may experience persistent feelings of unease, restlessness, and tension, often accompanied by symptoms such as increased heart rate, sweating, and difficulty concentrating.

Anxiety is common and is caused both by the genes you inherit and the environment in which you live.
The good news… you aren’t alone. Up to 25% of people suffer from anxiety at some point in their lifetime. The other good news is that you don’t need to struggle on alone. 

Anxiety disorders can manifest in various ways, including excessive worry, panic attacks, social avoidance, and intrusive thoughts. If you find that these symptoms significantly interfere with your daily life, relationships, or work, it may be indicative of an anxiety disorder. A comprehensive assessment and consultation can help determine the nature and severity of your symptoms.

I mainly use CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy), ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy) and DBT, (dialectical behaviour therapy), EMDR and hypnotherapy may also be used as part of therapy if required by the client.

EMDR is a therapeutic approach designed to alleviate distress associated with traumatic memories. It involves a structured eight-phase protocol that includes bilateral stimulation, typically in the form of guided eye movements. EMDR aims to help individuals process traumatic experiences, reduce their emotional impact, and promote healing.

 The duration of therapy varies depending on the individual’s unique circumstances, the specific disorder, and the chosen therapeutic approach. Short-term interventions may range from a few weeks to a few months, while more complex cases might require long-term therapy. Regular reassessment is conducted to ensure progress and address evolving needs.

I am trained to provide psychotherapy, and while I do not prescribe medication, I collaborate with psychiatrists or medical professionals who may be involved in your care. Medication may be recommended in certain cases, and decisions about medication are made in consultation with the client and his or her medical team.

To schedule an appointment, please either make an appointment online or contact me through the provided contact information. I will respond as soon as I can to discuss your needs, answer any questions, and schedule an initial consultation.

Yes, I offer both in-person and virtual therapy sessions to accommodate the diverse needs and preferences of my clients. While in-person sessions are preferred, online therapy can be a convenient option for those unable to attend in person or for individuals seeking the flexibility of virtual sessions.

The first session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other. I will ask about your background, current concerns, and treatment goals. We will discuss the therapeutic process, confidentiality, and any questions you may have. It’s also a chance for you to assess whether you feel comfortable working together.

Therapy for anxiety disorders offers a multifaceted and individualised approach to improving mental health and overall well-being.

Here are some key ways in which individuals can benefit:

1. Understanding and Awareness: Therapy provides a space for self-reflection and increased awareness of the thoughts, feelings, and behaviours associated with anxiety. Understanding the root causes and triggers is a crucial first step towards effective management.
2. Coping Strategies: Through evidence-based therapeutic techniques, you will learn practical coping strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms. This may involve developing relaxation techniques, changing negative thought patterns, and acquiring skills to navigate challenging situations.
3. Behavioural Change:  Therapy helps in identifying and modifying maladaptive behaviours associated with anxiety. By addressing these behaviours, individuals can develop healthier ways of responding to stressors and challenges.
4. Building Resilience:
   Therapy fosters resilience by helping individuals develop the skills to bounce back from setbacks. This involves cultivating a positive mindset, enhancing problem-solving abilities, and building emotional strength.
5. Improved Relationships:
   Anxiety can affect interpersonal relationships. Therapy provides a platform to explore and address relational challenges, improve communication skills, and establish healthier boundaries, fostering more satisfying and supportive connections.
6. Enhanced Self-Esteem: Anxiety often accompanies self-doubt and negative self-perceptions. Therapy aims to boost self-esteem and self-worth by challenging and reframing distorted beliefs, fostering self-acceptance, and promoting a more positive self-image.
7. Long-Term Emotional Regulation: Beyond symptom relief, therapy equips individuals with the tools for long-term emotional regulation. This includes developing emotional intelligence, mindfulness, and the ability to navigate life’s ups and downs with greater emotional resilience.
8. Goal Setting and Achievement:
   Therapy involves collaborative goal-setting, enabling individuals to work towards tangible objectives. Whether related to career, relationships, or personal growth, therapy helps in breaking down larger goals into manageable steps, fostering a sense of achievement.
9. Relapse Prevention:
   By addressing the root causes of anxiety and equipping individuals with coping skills, therapy aims to prevent the recurrence of symptoms. Clients are empowered to recognize early signs of distress and implement effective strategies to maintain mental well-being.
10. Increased Quality of Life:
    Ultimately, therapy strives to improve the overall quality of life. By addressing anxiety disorders, individuals can experience a greater sense of fulfillment, improved life satisfaction, and the ability to engage more fully in various aspects of their lives.
    It’s important to note that the benefits of therapy are unique to each individual, and the therapeutic process is a collaborative journey between the client and the therapist.

We all need anxiety as it helps to protect us. If you felt no anxiety in life, you probably wouldn’t be motivated to achieve anything. You could also do dangerous things if you have no anxiety about injuring yourself. Therapy enables you to learn a variety of strategies to manage your anxiety.

You only need a GP referral if you wish to claim a rebate through Medicare and you fulfill the Medicare criteria. If you do not wish to claim through Medicare or you are ineligible for a Medicare rebate, you do not need a referral.

If you are on Medicare, you need to book an appointment with your GP. He or she will make an assessment as to whether you fulfill the Medicare requirements. A Mental Health Care Plan will be completed by the GP and handed to you to pass on to your psychologist.

Your GP makes that assessment, not you or the psychologist.

This depends on your cover and you will need to make enquiries through your insurer. You do not need a referral to claim through private insurance.

Book a session or contact me for further questions here