Female Counselling in Avalon Beach, NSW

Photo of Rebecca Meta Higgins - EMDR and Trauma Treatment - Changes Group, ACA-L4, Counsellor
EMDR and Trauma Treatment - Changes Group
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Avalon Beach, NSW 2107
Are you struggling with PTSD, complex PTSD, or any addiction? Is your current therapy just not working even though you tried your hardest? Recent brain research tells us that talk therapy doesn't give us the expected outcomes we once thought. We know that traumatic incidents can affect us years later. Our brain stores past traumas in a particular way that tries to keep us safe from disturbing memories; we know that the trauma resurfaces elsewhere. It comes out in flashbacks, heightened nervous system responses or self-soothing behaviours, which result in addictions. If you feel like you are going around in circles, help is at hand.
Are you struggling with PTSD, complex PTSD, or any addiction? Is your current therapy just not working even though you tried your hardest? Recent brain research tells us that talk therapy doesn't give us the expected outcomes we once thought. We know that traumatic incidents can affect us years later. Our brain stores past traumas in a particular way that tries to keep us safe from disturbing memories; we know that the trauma resurfaces elsewhere. It comes out in flashbacks, heightened nervous system responses or self-soothing behaviours, which result in addictions. If you feel like you are going around in circles, help is at hand.
(02) 9909 6142 View (02) 9909 6142
Photo of Rebecca Higgins - Rebecca Higgins - EMDR & Trauma Treatment , ACA-L4, Psychotherapist
Rebecca Higgins - EMDR & Trauma Treatment
Psychotherapist, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Avalon Beach, NSW 2107
My name is Rebecca Higgins, you may call me Bec. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor, Psychotherapist and EMDR Consultant. Life is not always easy and sometimes we need a gentle guiding hand to keep us on our path. I truly believe with the support of an experienced, focused and dedicated therapist, growth and healing is possible. We offer innovative, research based recovery and treatment programs that have proven and lasting results. Our treatment programs include individually tailored recovery and treatment plans and support, intensive outpatient programs and group programs.
My name is Rebecca Higgins, you may call me Bec. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor, Psychotherapist and EMDR Consultant. Life is not always easy and sometimes we need a gentle guiding hand to keep us on our path. I truly believe with the support of an experienced, focused and dedicated therapist, growth and healing is possible. We offer innovative, research based recovery and treatment programs that have proven and lasting results. Our treatment programs include individually tailored recovery and treatment plans and support, intensive outpatient programs and group programs.
(02) 9159 6688 View (02) 9159 6688
Photo of Emma May Spencer, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Emma May Spencer
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Avalon Beach, NSW 2107
Emma is a Clinical Psychologist with 22 years experience in supporting the mental health of children adolescents and adults. She has a special interest in assessing neurodiversity and in supporting clients to discover and better understand their unique brain styles. Emma is trained in numerous evidence based therapies including CBT, ACT, EMDR, DBT, schema therapy, SFBT and Art & Play therapies. Emma's experience is varied and she provides support in relation to anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, phobia's and burnout related to ADHD and Autistic brain styles.
Emma is a Clinical Psychologist with 22 years experience in supporting the mental health of children adolescents and adults. She has a special interest in assessing neurodiversity and in supporting clients to discover and better understand their unique brain styles. Emma is trained in numerous evidence based therapies including CBT, ACT, EMDR, DBT, schema therapy, SFBT and Art & Play therapies. Emma's experience is varied and she provides support in relation to anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, phobia's and burnout related to ADHD and Autistic brain styles.
(02) 9909 6140 View (02) 9909 6140
Angela Porter
Psychologist, Assoc MAPS
Verified Verified
Avalon Beach, NSW 2107
I am experienced in counselling, assessing, and treating adults from late adolescence through to the very elderly. I have been privileged to work with a broad range of clinical presentations, including alcohol and other drugs, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, including complex presentations, personality disorders and neurodiverse presentations.
I am experienced in counselling, assessing, and treating adults from late adolescence through to the very elderly. I have been privileged to work with a broad range of clinical presentations, including alcohol and other drugs, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, including complex presentations, personality disorders and neurodiverse presentations.
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Photo of Nicola Unite, MA, PACFA, Counsellor
Nicola Unite
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Avalon Beach, NSW 2107
Sometimes things feel like they are too hard. Sometimes we may feel like we are 'stuck' because of a challenging situation or from a past pattern of behaviour that doesn't seem to let us go. Sometimes our thoughts seem to go around and around and take control of our actions. Sometimes, we just don't know which direction we need to head in, or want to head in, and why. These transitions in life need some time to process. And sometimes it feels like nobody understands us and we just need someone to talk to and to find a bit of grounding and presence.
Sometimes things feel like they are too hard. Sometimes we may feel like we are 'stuck' because of a challenging situation or from a past pattern of behaviour that doesn't seem to let us go. Sometimes our thoughts seem to go around and around and take control of our actions. Sometimes, we just don't know which direction we need to head in, or want to head in, and why. These transitions in life need some time to process. And sometimes it feels like nobody understands us and we just need someone to talk to and to find a bit of grounding and presence.
(02) 8403 0987 View (02) 8403 0987
Photo of Philippa Montier - Inner View Art Therapy, AThR, Psychotherapist
Inner View Art Therapy
Psychotherapist, AThR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Avalon Beach, NSW 2107
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, disconnected or struggling with a difficult event in your life? Are you finding it difficult to put into words just what you're feeling and thinking? Do you want support to feel lighter, calmer and clearer? Are you hoping to find a safe, supportive space to improve and maintain your mental wellbeing?
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, disconnected or struggling with a difficult event in your life? Are you finding it difficult to put into words just what you're feeling and thinking? Do you want support to feel lighter, calmer and clearer? Are you hoping to find a safe, supportive space to improve and maintain your mental wellbeing?
(02) 8999 5048 View (02) 8999 5048
Photo of Jane Macnaught, PACFA, Counsellor
Jane Macnaught
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avalon Beach, NSW 2107
Overwhelmed. Stressed. Anxious. Exhausted. Overcome with grief. Feeling low in self esteem. Struggling. In pain & suffering. Lack of direction. Distressed. Panic. Numb. Disconnected. If you relate to any or many of these feelings then I may be able to help you move through these states to feeling more connected, empowered, happier, and energised to live a more wholehearted life.
Overwhelmed. Stressed. Anxious. Exhausted. Overcome with grief. Feeling low in self esteem. Struggling. In pain & suffering. Lack of direction. Distressed. Panic. Numb. Disconnected. If you relate to any or many of these feelings then I may be able to help you move through these states to feeling more connected, empowered, happier, and energised to live a more wholehearted life.
(02) 9158 6747 View (02) 9158 6747
Photo of Sarah Beetham - Sarah Beetham Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA, Counsellor
Sarah Beetham Psychotherapist
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Avalon Beach, NSW 2107
You may show up to counselling immobilised & stuck, unable to move beyond entrenched unhealthy relational patterns or addictions deeply impacting your emotional, psychological and physical well-being. The repetition of these unsatisfactory behaviours, thoughts and feelings is what leads most clients through my door. MY TASK as your counsellor is to provide an environment that disrupts your current level of functioning & move you towards change and renewed progression. I observe your Discrepancies, Mixed Messages and Inner Conflicts within your Narrative and Behaviours, regarding the most personal dimensions of your LIFE Challenges.
You may show up to counselling immobilised & stuck, unable to move beyond entrenched unhealthy relational patterns or addictions deeply impacting your emotional, psychological and physical well-being. The repetition of these unsatisfactory behaviours, thoughts and feelings is what leads most clients through my door. MY TASK as your counsellor is to provide an environment that disrupts your current level of functioning & move you towards change and renewed progression. I observe your Discrepancies, Mixed Messages and Inner Conflicts within your Narrative and Behaviours, regarding the most personal dimensions of your LIFE Challenges.
(02) 8074 3973 View (02) 8074 3973
Photo of Vanessa Steele, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Vanessa Steele
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Avalon Beach, NSW 2107
As your counsellor, I work with you to meet the challenges in your life as you experience them. In a safe, caring space you are free to express your feelings, be heard and understood: where you can honestly explore your concerns. Together, we can clarify what kind of life you want to live, recognise your strengths and resources, discover your options, increase your self-awareness, and develop strategies to help you live your life the way you choose. My background in the performing arts has given me an appreciation of the incredible diversity in perspectives and choices we make as individuals, and to truly value the human spirit.
As your counsellor, I work with you to meet the challenges in your life as you experience them. In a safe, caring space you are free to express your feelings, be heard and understood: where you can honestly explore your concerns. Together, we can clarify what kind of life you want to live, recognise your strengths and resources, discover your options, increase your self-awareness, and develop strategies to help you live your life the way you choose. My background in the performing arts has given me an appreciation of the incredible diversity in perspectives and choices we make as individuals, and to truly value the human spirit.
(02) 8403 1873 View (02) 8403 1873
Photo of Amanda Moore, MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Amanda Moore
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Avalon Beach, NSW 2107
I predominantly work with women struggling with stress and anxiety stemming from life changes and relationship difficulties.
Are you struggling with managing your emotions? Do you feel overwhelmed with life at times? Is it difficult for you to ask for what you need? Are you experiencing difficulty in your relationships? Do you feel like you are not being heard? Are you new to parenthood and need some guidance? I can help you manage anxiety and depression, or help with building self-esteem and resilience, and manage the struggles that might stem from situational difficulties and life changes. You will be met with warmth, in a safe, non-judgemental environment.
I predominantly work with women struggling with stress and anxiety stemming from life changes and relationship difficulties.
Are you struggling with managing your emotions? Do you feel overwhelmed with life at times? Is it difficult for you to ask for what you need? Are you experiencing difficulty in your relationships? Do you feel like you are not being heard? Are you new to parenthood and need some guidance? I can help you manage anxiety and depression, or help with building self-esteem and resilience, and manage the struggles that might stem from situational difficulties and life changes. You will be met with warmth, in a safe, non-judgemental environment.
(02) 8403 1833 View (02) 8403 1833
Photo of Jessie Booth, PsychD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Jessie Booth
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Avalon Beach, NSW 2107
Jessie’s unwavering belief in the possibility of change and optimal health is contagious and will enable you to make positive and meaningful changes in your life. Successful therapy is about connection, and this is one of Jessie’s particular strengths. Her aim is to make your session comfortable and productive, without over-reliance on worksheets and psychological theory. With her down to earth approach it becomes easy for you to slip into “doing the work”. With warmth and curiosity, Jessie will gently challenge you to face the hard stuff, providing the space you need to begin to heal.
Jessie’s unwavering belief in the possibility of change and optimal health is contagious and will enable you to make positive and meaningful changes in your life. Successful therapy is about connection, and this is one of Jessie’s particular strengths. Her aim is to make your session comfortable and productive, without over-reliance on worksheets and psychological theory. With her down to earth approach it becomes easy for you to slip into “doing the work”. With warmth and curiosity, Jessie will gently challenge you to face the hard stuff, providing the space you need to begin to heal.
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Photo of Narelle Gibbs - Seedling Psychology - Online Telehealth, MA, PsyBA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Seedling Psychology - Online Telehealth
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Avalon Beach, NSW 2107  (Online Only)
Narelle Gibbs, Senior Psychologist at Seedling Psychology, is a warm and compassionate psychologist with extensive experience treating children, adolescents, & young adults. She uses evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), Comprehensive Behavioural Intervention for Tics (CBiT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Psychoeducation, & positive psychology practices. With 28 years of experience in Australia and the UK, she has recently extended her areas of practice to also support adult clients. Her rural and urban experiences inform her approach to individual needs.
Narelle Gibbs, Senior Psychologist at Seedling Psychology, is a warm and compassionate psychologist with extensive experience treating children, adolescents, & young adults. She uses evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), Comprehensive Behavioural Intervention for Tics (CBiT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Psychoeducation, & positive psychology practices. With 28 years of experience in Australia and the UK, she has recently extended her areas of practice to also support adult clients. Her rural and urban experiences inform her approach to individual needs.
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Photo of Katrina Helene, MA, AMHSW, Psychotherapist
Katrina Helene
Psychotherapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Avalon Beach, NSW 2107
Feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed? Maybe your emotions jump from 0-100 in a second; or you're having relationship and other issues. Perhaps you feel on edge, maybe shutdown, have anger, sadness, trauma. With 20+ years’ counselling experience, I bring a wealth of know-how plus a gamut of tools and strategies, to help you. If you're stuck in a tough patch, an experienced therapist with years of experience can help you navigate it all and bring peace and resolution. Someone caring, incisive, calm and highly skilled to work with the issues at hand, will get you there. I will bring just that.
Feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed? Maybe your emotions jump from 0-100 in a second; or you're having relationship and other issues. Perhaps you feel on edge, maybe shutdown, have anger, sadness, trauma. With 20+ years’ counselling experience, I bring a wealth of know-how plus a gamut of tools and strategies, to help you. If you're stuck in a tough patch, an experienced therapist with years of experience can help you navigate it all and bring peace and resolution. Someone caring, incisive, calm and highly skilled to work with the issues at hand, will get you there. I will bring just that.
(02) 9100 0591 View (02) 9100 0591
Photo of Alison Glass - Alison Glass - EMDR & Trauma Treatment, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Alison Glass - EMDR & Trauma Treatment
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Avalon Beach, NSW 2107
Not accepting new clients
Alison is passionate about the treatment of anxiety disorders, depression, addictions and eating disorders with a particular interest and training in treating Post-traumatic Stress Disorder. Alison uses an integrative approach to enable her to tailor therapy to the individual client’s needs, integrating EMDR with other therapies. She is experienced in working with older adolescents and adults presenting with eating disorders, mood, anxiety disorders, grief and phobias.
Alison is passionate about the treatment of anxiety disorders, depression, addictions and eating disorders with a particular interest and training in treating Post-traumatic Stress Disorder. Alison uses an integrative approach to enable her to tailor therapy to the individual client’s needs, integrating EMDR with other therapies. She is experienced in working with older adolescents and adults presenting with eating disorders, mood, anxiety disorders, grief and phobias.
(02) 8806 0772 View (02) 8806 0772

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Anita Blakeley-Smith, PhD, MAPS, Psychologist
Anita Blakeley-Smith
Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Verified Verified
Terrey Hills, NSW 2084  (Online Only)
I am warm, open and experienced Doctor of clinical psychology who works with all sorts of issues, big and small, from life adjustment issues to mental health difficulties. My focus is on mental health wellness. I work with proven psychology treatments for mood and relationship issues for all ages, including couples.  I aim to treat each client as an individual with their own unique biology, personal history, strengths and areas for change, utilising a collaborative approach to provide your own program of evidence based intervention. 
I am warm, open and experienced Doctor of clinical psychology who works with all sorts of issues, big and small, from life adjustment issues to mental health difficulties. My focus is on mental health wellness. I work with proven psychology treatments for mood and relationship issues for all ages, including couples.  I aim to treat each client as an individual with their own unique biology, personal history, strengths and areas for change, utilising a collaborative approach to provide your own program of evidence based intervention. 
(02) 8294 6666 View (02) 8294 6666
Photo of Sylvia Suwan, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Sylvia Suwan
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allambie Heights, NSW 2100
I work with those who are experiencing a breakup or divorce, separation, and relationship issues. My approach is very much person centered, holistic, and nonjudgmental as I believe in the clients need to feel safe and comfortable. My modalities include CBT, IFS, solution focused, somatic and trauma informed therapy. Based in the northern beaches in Sydney, I also provide online sessions worldwide. Contact for a free consultation
I work with those who are experiencing a breakup or divorce, separation, and relationship issues. My approach is very much person centered, holistic, and nonjudgmental as I believe in the clients need to feel safe and comfortable. My modalities include CBT, IFS, solution focused, somatic and trauma informed therapy. Based in the northern beaches in Sydney, I also provide online sessions worldwide. Contact for a free consultation
(02) 8403 1472 View (02) 8403 1472
Photo of Stephanie Hill, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Stephanie Hill
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Berowra, NSW 2081
I am a Clinical Psychologist who is passionate about supporting clients to live a life full of meaning and vitality. I believe in the importance of the therapeutic relationship, and endeavour to offer a warm, supportive space where you can feel safe to be vulnerable and explore any deeper issues driving your unhappiness or distress. I am trained in working with a full range of presentations, with a particular interest in working with anxiety disorders, OCD, eating disorders, and body image issues. I also enjoy providing longer-term therapy targeting ongoing patterns of behaviour linked to painful past experiences or unmet needs.
I am a Clinical Psychologist who is passionate about supporting clients to live a life full of meaning and vitality. I believe in the importance of the therapeutic relationship, and endeavour to offer a warm, supportive space where you can feel safe to be vulnerable and explore any deeper issues driving your unhappiness or distress. I am trained in working with a full range of presentations, with a particular interest in working with anxiety disorders, OCD, eating disorders, and body image issues. I also enjoy providing longer-term therapy targeting ongoing patterns of behaviour linked to painful past experiences or unmet needs.
(02) 8403 2988 View (02) 8403 2988
Photo of Georgie Pearson, Counsellor
Georgie Pearson
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Narrabeen, NSW 2101
In this fast-paced world I offer you a safe space to slow down and be heard. Together we explore your unique experience and discover what makes you feel, think and behave the way you do. You will better understand yourself and make meaning of your life. Key focuses are on repatterning beliefs and behaviours, integrating healing, and creating sustainable change.
In this fast-paced world I offer you a safe space to slow down and be heard. Together we explore your unique experience and discover what makes you feel, think and behave the way you do. You will better understand yourself and make meaning of your life. Key focuses are on repatterning beliefs and behaviours, integrating healing, and creating sustainable change.
(02) 9100 0847 View (02) 9100 0847
Photo of Lauren Bourke, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Lauren Bourke
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Berowra, NSW 2081
Whether you want to learn strategies to regain mental health; regulate intense emotions; navigate life's complexities and relationships; manage stress or simply maintain optimal wellbeing and balance, I take a compassionate, collaborative and client-centred approach in employing evidence based treatment relevant to the uniqueness of the client. Working with adolescents and adults from a predominantly DBT-informed lens, I encourage people to take an active role in devising treatment goals and firmly believe that each individual is the expert on themselves. I strive to consistently embody non-judgment and flexibility in all that I do.
Whether you want to learn strategies to regain mental health; regulate intense emotions; navigate life's complexities and relationships; manage stress or simply maintain optimal wellbeing and balance, I take a compassionate, collaborative and client-centred approach in employing evidence based treatment relevant to the uniqueness of the client. Working with adolescents and adults from a predominantly DBT-informed lens, I encourage people to take an active role in devising treatment goals and firmly believe that each individual is the expert on themselves. I strive to consistently embody non-judgment and flexibility in all that I do.
(02) 8403 2137 View (02) 8403 2137
Photo of Martina Link - Balance your Life Counselling - Martina Link, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Balance your Life Counselling - Martina Link
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Terrey Hills, NSW 2084
Life can be overwhelming, especially when facing challenges like chronic illness, loss & grief, interpersonal relationship issues and general emotional distress. You don’t have to navigate these difficulties alone. My approach is rooted in understanding and empathy, helping you find the strength to overcome obstacles and achieve a positive outlook. Together, we will explore solutions that empower you to move forward, fostering personal growth and resilience. With a deep understanding of the complex emotions and struggles you’re experiencing, I am here to support you every step of the way, guiding you toward a fulfilling future.
Life can be overwhelming, especially when facing challenges like chronic illness, loss & grief, interpersonal relationship issues and general emotional distress. You don’t have to navigate these difficulties alone. My approach is rooted in understanding and empathy, helping you find the strength to overcome obstacles and achieve a positive outlook. Together, we will explore solutions that empower you to move forward, fostering personal growth and resilience. With a deep understanding of the complex emotions and struggles you’re experiencing, I am here to support you every step of the way, guiding you toward a fulfilling future.
(02) 8403 1165 View (02) 8403 1165

See more therapy options for Avalon Beach

Female Counsellors

Does it matter what gender my therapist is?

In general, this is not an important factor, as there is no relationship between a therapist’s gender and their efficacy. Some clients, however, prefer to see therapists of a particular gender, whether due to their own past experiences with men and women, or ingrained beliefs about how people of different genders think and behave. Exploring the roots of such preferences and considering what one wants to address in therapy can help someone determine whether their therapist’s gender truly matters to them.

Should I see a female therapist?

Many people—not just women—prefer to see a female therapist, either because they believe that a woman will be able to relate to their specific challenges (for example, sexism in the workplace) or because they imagine feeling more comfortable disclosing sensitive information to a woman. Such beliefs may not turn out to be accurate, however, and adhering too rigidly to a gender preference can at times hinder a client from finding the best therapeutic match.

Do therapists get specific training to help with women’s concerns?

Therapists are trained to provide care to clients of any gender. However, some therapists—both men and women—may pursue additional training in feminist therapy, gender-specific issues, or women’s mental health. Female clients may wish to ask prospective therapists whether they have received specific training in the client’s primary area(s) of concern, or whether they have worked extensively with women on issues similar to their own.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience in treating women?

It’s OK—even encouraged!—to ask a therapist directly whether and how often they have treated women in the past, or whether they have treated women dealing with the client’s most prominent concern(s). Competent therapists will be happy to share their educational background, preferred treatment modalities, and prior client experience to help an individual find the therapist best suited to their needs.