Adoption Counselling in Leichhardt, NSW

Photo of Michael Grunwald, Assoc MAPS, Psychologist
Michael Grunwald
Psychologist, Assoc MAPS
Verified Verified
Leichhardt, NSW 2040
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 Paula Parmakellis, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paula Parmakellis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Leichhardt, NSW 2040
Not accepting new clients
Are you finding it difficult to manage your intense emotions? Have you experienced trauma in your life which is unresolved and affecting your life now? Or maybe you are at a point in life where you maybe feeling confused or just want to understand yourself better. I am an Accredited Mental Health Social worker with over 19 years experience in various roles with Children and Adolescents in Government and NGOs and counselling experience with Adolescents, families, ADF and their families. I am warm, empathic, authentic and enjoy a good laugh and would love to hear from you if you feel I would be a good fit.
Are you finding it difficult to manage your intense emotions? Have you experienced trauma in your life which is unresolved and affecting your life now? Or maybe you are at a point in life where you maybe feeling confused or just want to understand yourself better. I am an Accredited Mental Health Social worker with over 19 years experience in various roles with Children and Adolescents in Government and NGOs and counselling experience with Adolescents, families, ADF and their families. I am warm, empathic, authentic and enjoy a good laugh and would love to hear from you if you feel I would be a good fit.
(02) 9100 0106 View (02) 9100 0106
Photo of Jane Rabie- Play Therapist, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jane Rabie- Play Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leichhardt, NSW 2040
Often children don’t have words to describe their experiences and feelings and instead reveal them through behaviours which can be misunderstood. They may get into trouble, be labelled, or disconnect. I work with children and families just like this. As a carer, reaching out for support can be the hardest step. I work closely with you and your child through Play Therapy which is relationship based therapy for children aged 3-12 years. Play is a child’s natural way of communicating and Play Therapy creates the environment where the therapist enters into a child’s world and understands the experience from their perspective.
Often children don’t have words to describe their experiences and feelings and instead reveal them through behaviours which can be misunderstood. They may get into trouble, be labelled, or disconnect. I work with children and families just like this. As a carer, reaching out for support can be the hardest step. I work closely with you and your child through Play Therapy which is relationship based therapy for children aged 3-12 years. Play is a child’s natural way of communicating and Play Therapy creates the environment where the therapist enters into a child’s world and understands the experience from their perspective.
(02) 9100 0607 View (02) 9100 0607
Photo of Bronwyn Davies Glover - Bronwyn Davies Glover - As You Are Psychotherapy, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Bronwyn Davies Glover - As You Are Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Leichhardt, NSW 2040
Hi, I'm Bronwyn. I am an integrative, empathic, person-centred therapist bringing holistic, somatic, creative and dynamic approaches to the intersections of anti-oppressive, trauma informed practice. I offer inclusive, accessible therapy that values every aspect of the client. This means that I view each client as a whole person with a unique worldview informed by the stories of their mind-body experiences. Each unique individual requires a uniquely individual approach and this approach is grounded in the principles of trauma care; safety, trustworthiness, collaboration, empowerment and choice.
Hi, I'm Bronwyn. I am an integrative, empathic, person-centred therapist bringing holistic, somatic, creative and dynamic approaches to the intersections of anti-oppressive, trauma informed practice. I offer inclusive, accessible therapy that values every aspect of the client. This means that I view each client as a whole person with a unique worldview informed by the stories of their mind-body experiences. Each unique individual requires a uniquely individual approach and this approach is grounded in the principles of trauma care; safety, trustworthiness, collaboration, empowerment and choice.
(02) 8074 1609 View (02) 8074 1609
Photo of Amanda Joy Robb, MA, ACA-L4, Psychotherapist
Amanda Joy Robb
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Leichhardt, NSW 2040
Joy Through Therapy is founded by Amanda Joy Robb, a renowned and innovative Registered Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor. Amanda specialises in Trauma, Sexology, Sexual Health and Relationships, and Supervision. Throughout these three domains, Amanda offers services for Trauma based Therapies, Sex & Relationship Therapy and Clinical Individual and Group Supervision, as well as Consultation training services.
Joy Through Therapy is founded by Amanda Joy Robb, a renowned and innovative Registered Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor. Amanda specialises in Trauma, Sexology, Sexual Health and Relationships, and Supervision. Throughout these three domains, Amanda offers services for Trauma based Therapies, Sex & Relationship Therapy and Clinical Individual and Group Supervision, as well as Consultation training services.
(02) 9158 6068 View (02) 9158 6068
Photo of Lyndell Weaver, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Lyndell Weaver
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Leichhardt, NSW 2040
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 Kerri Parke, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Kerri Parke
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Leichhardt, NSW 2040  (Online Only)
It's OK to feel daunted by the prospect of counselling; sessions with me will be collaborative and will go at your own pace. There will be no judgment, you won't have to talk about anything that feels too painful until you are ready and I will not tell you what to do. Sometimes people think they have to be “crazy” or have mental health issues, or have experienced a severe trauma to see a therapist. My response is, if it’s important to you, then it’s worth talking about with someone. It doesn’t matter how small you think the issue is, talking about it can help.
It's OK to feel daunted by the prospect of counselling; sessions with me will be collaborative and will go at your own pace. There will be no judgment, you won't have to talk about anything that feels too painful until you are ready and I will not tell you what to do. Sometimes people think they have to be “crazy” or have mental health issues, or have experienced a severe trauma to see a therapist. My response is, if it’s important to you, then it’s worth talking about with someone. It doesn’t matter how small you think the issue is, talking about it can help.
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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sabine Luebben, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Sabine Luebben
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
Not accepting new clients
I have worked with clients with lived experience of foster care, adoption and childhood emotional, physical and sexual abuse and supported clients dealing with the National Redress Scheme.
I am a clinical psychologist with 25 years of experience working with adolescents, adults and older adults and combine face to face and telehealth support to clients across Australia. My approach is grounded in providing a warm and respectful therapeutic relationship and working together collaboratively to accommodate your individual needs and goals. I draw on a variety of therapies including psychodynamic psychotherapy, attachment-based and relational approaches as well as DBT and mindfulness. I support clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, relationship issues, and clients coping with life transitions.
I have worked with clients with lived experience of foster care, adoption and childhood emotional, physical and sexual abuse and supported clients dealing with the National Redress Scheme.
I am a clinical psychologist with 25 years of experience working with adolescents, adults and older adults and combine face to face and telehealth support to clients across Australia. My approach is grounded in providing a warm and respectful therapeutic relationship and working together collaboratively to accommodate your individual needs and goals. I draw on a variety of therapies including psychodynamic psychotherapy, attachment-based and relational approaches as well as DBT and mindfulness. I support clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, relationship issues, and clients coping with life transitions.
(02) 8403 0804 View (02) 8403 0804
Photo of Joanna Pandelidis Living Free Psychology, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Joanna Pandelidis Living Free Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000  (Online Only)
I work with individuals, couples and families (adults & children over 8yrs), Anxiety, Depression, Relationships, Compensable injuries: workers compensation; TAC; VOCAT and DVA, Pain/Stress management, Eating Disorders, BPD, Trauma, PTSD, OCD, Intercountry Adoption.
HAVE Availability & NOW accepting NEW Clients! "Hi, hi. I am a looking forward to meeting you. After more than 50,000 hours of face-to-face counselling, I still love being a Psychologist" My work has allowed me to meet people from many walks of life as they journey through various stages in their life span. Having worked in areas as diverse as community and ethnic-based services to rehabilitation services to public psychiatry and eventual, private practice, I am humbled and inspired by people’s courage and resourcefulness as they navigate the ebb and flow of life.
I work with individuals, couples and families (adults & children over 8yrs), Anxiety, Depression, Relationships, Compensable injuries: workers compensation; TAC; VOCAT and DVA, Pain/Stress management, Eating Disorders, BPD, Trauma, PTSD, OCD, Intercountry Adoption.
HAVE Availability & NOW accepting NEW Clients! "Hi, hi. I am a looking forward to meeting you. After more than 50,000 hours of face-to-face counselling, I still love being a Psychologist" My work has allowed me to meet people from many walks of life as they journey through various stages in their life span. Having worked in areas as diverse as community and ethnic-based services to rehabilitation services to public psychiatry and eventual, private practice, I am humbled and inspired by people’s courage and resourcefulness as they navigate the ebb and flow of life.
0468 887 908 View 0468 887 908
Photo of Caroline Spiers, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Caroline Spiers
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000  (Online Only)
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? A good counsellor will allow you space to talk, guide you gently along 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.
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? A good counsellor will allow you space to talk, guide you gently along 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
Photo of Renee Claire Voice, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Renee Claire Voice
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
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
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 Wilfred Lax, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Wilfred Lax
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
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
Photo of Leonie Catherine Wolff, MA, MAPS, Psychologist
Leonie Catherine Wolff
Psychologist, MA, MAPS
Verified Verified
Erskineville, NSW 2043
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 Katie Summerfield - Heart Of Play Therapy Katie Summerfield
Heart Of Play Therapy Katie Summerfield
Verified Verified
Petersham, NSW 2049
Like a flower, we bloom in the right environment; in the play therapy room I work with empathy and acceptance to create a safe space for children and families in order for them to work through their issues and “grow”. I recognise the importance of family and offer assistance to parents and carers to work towards a safer, happier and more relaxed home environment in a strength-based way. Child-centred Play Therapy is a gentle, trauma-informed and neuro-affirming way of supporting children in their unique reactions to coping with daily life, big life events or trauma and attachment issues.
Like a flower, we bloom in the right environment; in the play therapy room I work with empathy and acceptance to create a safe space for children and families in order for them to work through their issues and “grow”. I recognise the importance of family and offer assistance to parents and carers to work towards a safer, happier and more relaxed home environment in a strength-based way. Child-centred Play Therapy is a gentle, trauma-informed and neuro-affirming way of supporting children in their unique reactions to coping with daily life, big life events or trauma and attachment issues.
(02) 9100 0375 View (02) 9100 0375
Photo of Maria Simonetta, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Maria Simonetta
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
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
Photo of Ronnie Adamowicz, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Ronnie Adamowicz
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
Are you feeling stuck, like something important is missing from your life, but you can't quite put your finger on it? Do you find it challenging to have your emotional needs met in relationships? Are you trapped in repetitive patterns, struggling to define healthy boundaries? There is a reason behind these struggles, and together, we will uncover what is holding you back, providing you with the clarity and confidence needed to turn things around. I specialize in somatic therapy, an approach that dives deep into the core of unresolved trauma within the body, facilitating rapid healing.
Are you feeling stuck, like something important is missing from your life, but you can't quite put your finger on it? Do you find it challenging to have your emotional needs met in relationships? Are you trapped in repetitive patterns, struggling to define healthy boundaries? There is a reason behind these struggles, and together, we will uncover what is holding you back, providing you with the clarity and confidence needed to turn things around. I specialize in somatic therapy, an approach that dives deep into the core of unresolved trauma within the body, facilitating rapid healing.
(03) 7037 6993 View (03) 7037 6993
Photo of Cal Paterson - Whychange Psychology Services, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Whychange Psychology Services
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
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 Jodie Gale, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Jodie Gale
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
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 Giorgio Salmistraro, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Giorgio Salmistraro
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
Life can be exciting and challenging. The most difficult challenge of all is to learn be open and realize we often repeat the same mistakes times again and wonder: "Why is this happening to me ?" We build patterns of behavior which we repeat as we are blindfolded without even realizing it. If you you realize your patterns are ruining your life and the life of the people you love I am here to support you. I am a qualified Psychosexual Relationship Therapist and Supervisor. I offer supervision to Students of Counselling in placement. I worked for may years offering couples therapy and males struggling with pornography addiction.
Life can be exciting and challenging. The most difficult challenge of all is to learn be open and realize we often repeat the same mistakes times again and wonder: "Why is this happening to me ?" We build patterns of behavior which we repeat as we are blindfolded without even realizing it. If you you realize your patterns are ruining your life and the life of the people you love I am here to support you. I am a qualified Psychosexual Relationship Therapist and Supervisor. I offer supervision to Students of Counselling in placement. I worked for may years offering couples therapy and males struggling with pornography addiction.
(02) 8609 3995 View (02) 8609 3995

See more therapy options for Leichhardt

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.