Adoption Counselling in Hunter Region, NSW

Photo of Melanie Zammit, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Melanie Zammit
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wickham, NSW 2293
Are you struggling to communicate effectively with your partner and feeling stuck in the same unhealthy pattern? Or going through a difficult separation or divorce? I am an experienced Couples Counsellor and Separation / Divorce Mediator. I understand the importance of effective communication and conflict resolution. I became a counsellor to help people find their voice, validate their emotions, and gain a better understanding of themselves and their relationships.
Are you struggling to communicate effectively with your partner and feeling stuck in the same unhealthy pattern? Or going through a difficult separation or divorce? I am an experienced Couples Counsellor and Separation / Divorce Mediator. I understand the importance of effective communication and conflict resolution. I became a counsellor to help people find their voice, validate their emotions, and gain a better understanding of themselves and their relationships.
(02) 4012 6458 View (02) 4012 6458
Photo of Allira Sazdanoff, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Allira Sazdanoff
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Newcastle, NSW 2300
I am a psychologist, with an approach to therapy that is person-centred and holistic in nature, taking into account the many aspects of the human experience and the influences that shape us. I have experience in assessing and providing therapeutic services to adolescents and adults with a diverse range of mental health conditions, and have a special interest in working with complex trauma and dissociation, anxiety, and attachment difficulties. I strive to create safety for individuals to explore their vulnerabilities and am passionate about supporting clients to reduce suffering, to live authentically, and achieve their goals.
I am a psychologist, with an approach to therapy that is person-centred and holistic in nature, taking into account the many aspects of the human experience and the influences that shape us. I have experience in assessing and providing therapeutic services to adolescents and adults with a diverse range of mental health conditions, and have a special interest in working with complex trauma and dissociation, anxiety, and attachment difficulties. I strive to create safety for individuals to explore their vulnerabilities and am passionate about supporting clients to reduce suffering, to live authentically, and achieve their goals.
(02) 4049 4035 View (02) 4049 4035
Photo of Matt Garrett, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matt Garrett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Wickham, NSW 2293
Relationships are the our life blood to health and happiness. Investing in your relationship is bound to lead to an improved quality of life, a increased sense of your own identity and the potential to enjoy enriched, purposeful and mutually beneficial relationships with others.
Relationships are the our life blood to health and happiness. Investing in your relationship is bound to lead to an improved quality of life, a increased sense of your own identity and the potential to enjoy enriched, purposeful and mutually beneficial relationships with others.
(02) 4063 1200 View (02) 4063 1200
Photo of Sarah Young, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Sarah Young
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
The Junction, NSW 2291
I'm a clinical psychologist with experience in both the public and private sector helping teenagers and adults overcome emotional challenges. I believe people need someone to be in the moment with them as they face their feelings in response to everyday struggles and past issues. I prioritise emotional regulation and understanding so people feel empowered to meet their true capacity and overcome life's challenges.
I'm a clinical psychologist with experience in both the public and private sector helping teenagers and adults overcome emotional challenges. I believe people need someone to be in the moment with them as they face their feelings in response to everyday struggles and past issues. I prioritise emotional regulation and understanding so people feel empowered to meet their true capacity and overcome life's challenges.
(02) 4005 0121 View (02) 4005 0121
Photo of Linda Thomas, PhD, MAPS, Psychologist
Linda Thomas
Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Verified Verified
Newcastle, NSW 2300
Dr Linda Thomas is a Clinical Psychologist with over 25 years experience in providing accurate diagnosis and effective care for all psychological concerns and conditions.
Dr Linda Thomas is a Clinical Psychologist with over 25 years experience in providing accurate diagnosis and effective care for all psychological concerns and conditions.
(02) 4058 4603 View (02) 4058 4603
Photo of Naomi Severina Rose, Assoc MAPS, Psychologist
Naomi Severina Rose
Psychologist, Assoc MAPS
Verified Verified
Stanhope, NSW 2335  (Online Only)
I am a registered psychologist with AHPRA and an associate member of the Australian Psychological Society. My qualifications are a Master’s in clinical psychology (overseas) and a Masters of Couples and Family Therapy (UNSW). I am registered with Medicare, ATAPS, NDIS, SIRA, and Victim Services. I have more than 15 years clinical experience and have worked in Australia as a registered psychologist for 10 years providing counselling to couples and families, psychological assessments, worked in post separation at the FRC and provided Trauma informed counselling and writing of Impact statements for clients of the Royal Commission.
I am a registered psychologist with AHPRA and an associate member of the Australian Psychological Society. My qualifications are a Master’s in clinical psychology (overseas) and a Masters of Couples and Family Therapy (UNSW). I am registered with Medicare, ATAPS, NDIS, SIRA, and Victim Services. I have more than 15 years clinical experience and have worked in Australia as a registered psychologist for 10 years providing counselling to couples and families, psychological assessments, worked in post separation at the FRC and provided Trauma informed counselling and writing of Impact statements for clients of the Royal Commission.
(02) 9159 6624 View (02) 9159 6624
Photo of Jenni Lemmerman - Be the Change Counselling - Jenni Lemmerman, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Be the Change Counselling - Jenni Lemmerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Newcastle, NSW 2300  (Online Only)
Most of us spend a lot of time doing things for others, and it usually means we don’t take the best care of ourselves. Overtime many of us will experience a number of concerns or face unforeseen challenges, such as relationship worries, family dynamics, parenting, trauma, employment or educational problems, bereavement, becoming a Carer or unexpected illness. When we forget to make time for ourselves and take care of our own needs, we can lose our sense of who we really are. If you’re feeling lost or are uncertain of how to make the changes. If you’re feeling like you need to reconnect with yourself and refocus, then I'm here help.
Most of us spend a lot of time doing things for others, and it usually means we don’t take the best care of ourselves. Overtime many of us will experience a number of concerns or face unforeseen challenges, such as relationship worries, family dynamics, parenting, trauma, employment or educational problems, bereavement, becoming a Carer or unexpected illness. When we forget to make time for ourselves and take care of our own needs, we can lose our sense of who we really are. If you’re feeling lost or are uncertain of how to make the changes. If you’re feeling like you need to reconnect with yourself and refocus, then I'm here help.
(02) 9541 8425 View (02) 9541 8425
Photo of Leisa Pritchard - The Heart & Mind Collective, PsyBA General, Psychologist
The Heart & Mind Collective
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Morisset, NSW 2264
Leisa is a psychologist providing tailored assessment and treatment of children, adolescents and adults. Leisa provides comprehensive assessment for developmental disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD and Intellectual (Cognitive) difficulties using gold standard measures. She is experienced in the treatment of ASD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, behavioural issues, PTSD, attachment difficulties, and selective mutism. Leisa is an accredited Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR) practitioner and is currently providing Telehealth support online (Zoom).
Leisa is a psychologist providing tailored assessment and treatment of children, adolescents and adults. Leisa provides comprehensive assessment for developmental disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD and Intellectual (Cognitive) difficulties using gold standard measures. She is experienced in the treatment of ASD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, behavioural issues, PTSD, attachment difficulties, and selective mutism. Leisa is an accredited Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR) practitioner and is currently providing Telehealth support online (Zoom).
(02) 4326 0725 View (02) 4326 0725

Online Therapists

Photo of Kyla Edinburg, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Kyla Edinburg
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
I have specific experience with issues related to adoption and I am interested in sexual difficulties.
I like to work with all types of people and all types of difficulties. I offer an opportunity to explore your life and yourself and for you gain insight into your behaviour in a non-judgmental and safe space. I am comfortable with short-term or long term therapy. See more at www.kylaclinicalpsychologist.com
I have specific experience with issues related to adoption and I am interested in sexual difficulties.
I like to work with all types of people and all types of difficulties. I offer an opportunity to explore your life and yourself and for you gain insight into your behaviour in a non-judgmental and safe space. I am comfortable with short-term or long term therapy. See more at www.kylaclinicalpsychologist.com
(02) 9100 0409 View (02) 9100 0409
Photo of Michael Grunwald, Assoc MAPS, Psychologist
Michael Grunwald
Psychologist, Assoc MAPS
Verified Verified
Glebe, NSW 2037
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Registered General Psychologist experienced in working with a wide range of common adult mental health concerns in an open, sincere and frank manner, including anger management, depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment and obsessive compulsive disorders as well as various addictions (alcohol, drug, gambling, sex, internet) and recovery. As an older therapist, I bring decades of life experience into my counselling, with personal experience of many of the challenges facing clients, including trauma, grief/loss, sex/relationship and men's issues, workplace stress/bullying, hoarding, culture shock, parenting and adoption.
I am a Registered General Psychologist experienced in working with a wide range of common adult mental health concerns in an open, sincere and frank manner, including anger management, depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment and obsessive compulsive disorders as well as various addictions (alcohol, drug, gambling, sex, internet) and recovery. As an older therapist, I bring decades of life experience into my counselling, with personal experience of many of the challenges facing clients, including trauma, grief/loss, sex/relationship and men's issues, workplace stress/bullying, hoarding, culture shock, parenting and adoption.
(02) 8806 0512 View (02) 8806 0512
Photo of Kimberley Lee, PACFA, Counsellor
Kimberley Lee
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
3 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 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.
(02) 8806 0548 View (02) 8806 0548
Photo of Leonie Catherine Wolff, MA, MAPS, Psychologist
Leonie Catherine Wolff
Psychologist, MA, MAPS
Verified Verified
Matraville, NSW 2036
Leonie has lived in the local area her whole life and has been practicing in Matraville for over 20 years. Leonie holds a Masters Degree in Psychology from Sydney University, is AHPRA, NDIS and SIRA accredited. Through her career Leonie has assisted patients of virtually every cultural background and believes the diversity of her patients has led to her skill and strength as a practitioner.
Leonie has lived in the local area her whole life and has been practicing in Matraville for over 20 years. Leonie holds a Masters Degree in Psychology from Sydney University, is AHPRA, NDIS and SIRA accredited. Through her career Leonie has assisted patients of virtually every cultural background and believes the diversity of her patients has led to her skill and strength as a practitioner.
(02) 9053 4316 View (02) 9053 4316
Photo of Sylvia Chen - Somatic Experiencing. Individual And Couple Counselling, MA, PACFA, Counsellor
Sylvia Chen - Somatic Experiencing. Individual And Couple Counselling
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gordon, NSW 2072
I am a trauma-informed clinical counsellor, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), gong sound healer, breathwork facilitator that firmly believes in the value of human life. I have experience in a range of areas including marriage/relationship, anxiety and stress, trauma, depression, attachment, family of origin issues, parenting, grief & loss, personal growth & development, special need supports and chronic health related concerns. ​I am warm, caring and insightful. I am here to support your integration, and all of the various parts of your personality and being, into a balanced and joyful whole, made up of body, mind and soul.
I am a trauma-informed clinical counsellor, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), gong sound healer, breathwork facilitator that firmly believes in the value of human life. I have experience in a range of areas including marriage/relationship, anxiety and stress, trauma, depression, attachment, family of origin issues, parenting, grief & loss, personal growth & development, special need supports and chronic health related concerns. ​I am warm, caring and insightful. I am here to support your integration, and all of the various parts of your personality and being, into a balanced and joyful whole, made up of body, mind and soul.
(02) 8403 0049 View (02) 8403 0049
Peter Jones
Psychologist, MSc, MAPS
Verified Verified
Annandale, NSW 2038  (Online Only)
You are probably a person who has had a degree of success in your life so far, but experiences a level of noticeable dissatisfaction or unresolved difficulty, which you may have felt for some time. Often this experience shows itself in our unhappiness with relationships, family or work/career. You may have had a recent loss that you are having difficulty moving on from, or perhaps you are noticing a pattern in your experiences that seem to recur, no matter what you try to do differently. You are a self-reflective person who is curious about how to change yourself and are now motivated to do so.
You are probably a person who has had a degree of success in your life so far, but experiences a level of noticeable dissatisfaction or unresolved difficulty, which you may have felt for some time. Often this experience shows itself in our unhappiness with relationships, family or work/career. You may have had a recent loss that you are having difficulty moving on from, or perhaps you are noticing a pattern in your experiences that seem to recur, no matter what you try to do differently. You are a self-reflective person who is curious about how to change yourself and are now motivated to do so.
(02) 8503 4154 View (02) 8503 4154
Photo of Jane Macnaught, PACFA, Counsellor
Jane Macnaught
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mona Vale, NSW 2103
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 Debra Jane Pittam, MC, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Debra Jane Pittam
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Berowra Heights, NSW 2082  (Online Only)
Hello, here is a little bit of information about me. I have a master’s degree in counselling and am registered with the Australian Counselling Association (ACA). I am also a Registered Nurse and a Professionally Certified Coach (PCC) with the International Coach Federation. I work with people who are experiencing the psychological and emotional impacts of cancer and chronic disease, or simply getting older and, at the same time, need to solve practical problems and advocate for themselves. I also work with people who care for or are caring for someone who has cancer, or a chronic physical or mental illness.
Hello, here is a little bit of information about me. I have a master’s degree in counselling and am registered with the Australian Counselling Association (ACA). I am also a Registered Nurse and a Professionally Certified Coach (PCC) with the International Coach Federation. I work with people who are experiencing the psychological and emotional impacts of cancer and chronic disease, or simply getting older and, at the same time, need to solve practical problems and advocate for themselves. I also work with people who care for or are caring for someone who has cancer, or a chronic physical or mental illness.
(02) 8403 2602 View (02) 8403 2602
Photo of Jodie Gale, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Jodie Gale
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Manly, NSW 2095
Hi, I’m Jodie Gale. I'm a Registered Clinical Psychotherapist, Trauma & Inner Child Recovery Expert, Disordered Eating Coach & the founder of Traumawarriors.Online. I help women recover from trauma, emotional eating & not feeling good enough. Some women come to me for therapy not because they have problems but because they are wondering, ‘who am I?’, they want to get to know themselves better & live a richer, deeper, soulful, more meaningful life. The women I work with are drawn to my approach because I provide a holistic, hopeful & soulful perspective for transformation and growth. I offer short term and long-term therapy.
Hi, I’m Jodie Gale. I'm a Registered Clinical Psychotherapist, Trauma & Inner Child Recovery Expert, Disordered Eating Coach & the founder of Traumawarriors.Online. I help women recover from trauma, emotional eating & not feeling good enough. Some women come to me for therapy not because they have problems but because they are wondering, ‘who am I?’, they want to get to know themselves better & live a richer, deeper, soulful, more meaningful life. The women I work with are drawn to my approach because I provide a holistic, hopeful & soulful perspective for transformation and growth. I offer short term and long-term therapy.
(02) 8294 7627 View (02) 8294 7627
Photo of Lyndell Weaver, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Lyndell Weaver
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Summer Hill, NSW 2130
Are you struggling with major changes, loss or uncertainty about the future? Maybe you're contending with a child’s worsening behaviour or mental health and you're feeling overwhelmed, frustrated or at a loss. Your family or intimate relationships may be more strained or volatile and you find yourself reacting to or retreating from others more than you'd like. Real Life Counselling provides a supportive space to explore and address your concerns about the realities facing you and your loved ones. I am an experienced individual counsellor specialising in stress, trauma, parenting, relationship and family issues.
Are you struggling with major changes, loss or uncertainty about the future? Maybe you're contending with a child’s worsening behaviour or mental health and you're feeling overwhelmed, frustrated or at a loss. Your family or intimate relationships may be more strained or volatile and you find yourself reacting to or retreating from others more than you'd like. Real Life Counselling provides a supportive space to explore and address your concerns about the realities facing you and your loved ones. I am an experienced individual counsellor specialising in stress, trauma, parenting, relationship and family issues.
(02) 8806 0251 View (02) 8806 0251
Photo of Cal Paterson - Whychange Psychology Services, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Whychange Psychology Services
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Croydon, NSW 2132
Founded in 2006 with a small but growing team of talented psychologists, we specialise in both short-term and long-term work on a wide range of problems. Our psychologists specialise in adult and adolescent individual and family sessions, to address mental illness, adjustment difficulties, interpersonal conflict, workplace stress, as well as complex challenges such as trauma, chronic illness, and relationship breakdown. Set in a quiet location with easy parking and access to public transport nearby.
Founded in 2006 with a small but growing team of talented psychologists, we specialise in both short-term and long-term work on a wide range of problems. Our psychologists specialise in adult and adolescent individual and family sessions, to address mental illness, adjustment difficulties, interpersonal conflict, workplace stress, as well as complex challenges such as trauma, chronic illness, and relationship breakdown. Set in a quiet location with easy parking and access to public transport nearby.
(02) 9538 7026 View (02) 9538 7026
Photo of Karyn Krawford, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Karyn Krawford
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Surry Hills, NSW 2010  (Online Only)
Hi, I am a Psychotherapist with a clinical registration. I help a broad range of people and challenges that range from childhood events causing thoughts, feelings and behaviours in the present time to be affected, to relationship challenges both in families, partnerships and proffessional relationships. I help people overcome and survive in ways that support healthy functioning and enjoyment of life. These can relate to stress, anxiety, changes in the person or environment, relationship breakdowns and death of treasured others. I provide a free consultation and currently work online only.
Hi, I am a Psychotherapist with a clinical registration. I help a broad range of people and challenges that range from childhood events causing thoughts, feelings and behaviours in the present time to be affected, to relationship challenges both in families, partnerships and proffessional relationships. I help people overcome and survive in ways that support healthy functioning and enjoyment of life. These can relate to stress, anxiety, changes in the person 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

See more therapy options for Hunter Region

Adoption Counsellors

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.