Adoption Counselling in North Sydney, NSW

Photo of Anda Maria Illie, MPsych, Assoc MAPS, Psychologist
Anda Maria Illie
Psychologist, MPsych, Assoc MAPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Sydney, NSW 2060
Hello, I'm Anda Maria, a provisional psychologist passionate about working with children. With experience as an Ethics teacher and Neuro Linguistics Programming therapist, I am dedicated to nurturing personal development and wellbeing. My interest lies in assisting children and teenagers in stress management, anxiety and depression, offering a comprehensive approach to assessment and treatment. I aim to empower and motivate my clients by helping them understand their challenges and facilitating positive life changes.
Hello, I'm Anda Maria, a provisional psychologist passionate about working with children. With experience as an Ethics teacher and Neuro Linguistics Programming therapist, I am dedicated to nurturing personal development and wellbeing. My interest lies in assisting children and teenagers in stress management, anxiety and depression, offering a comprehensive approach to assessment and treatment. I aim to empower and motivate my clients by helping them understand their challenges and facilitating positive life changes.
(02) 9100 0653 View (02) 9100 0653
Photo of Crawf Weir - Crawf Weir Psychotherapy, MA, PACFA, Counsellor
Crawf Weir Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
North Sydney, NSW 2060
Are you struggling with compulsive behaviour and afraid of losing everything? Do you feel restless and insecure but aren't sure why? Perhaps your life has changed so much that you've lost sight of who you are and what you truly want. I want you to know that this is not the end of your story. You are not "too broken" to heal or "too damaged" to change. Your past does not define you – it's just a chapter in your story, not the whole book. I can help you understand what has happened, learn from your experiences, see the bigger picture, and start writing the next chapter of your life.
Are you struggling with compulsive behaviour and afraid of losing everything? Do you feel restless and insecure but aren't sure why? Perhaps your life has changed so much that you've lost sight of who you are and what you truly want. I want you to know that this is not the end of your story. You are not "too broken" to heal or "too damaged" to change. Your past does not define you – it's just a chapter in your story, not the whole book. I can help you understand what has happened, learn from your experiences, see the bigger picture, and start writing the next chapter of your life.
(02) 9100 0451 View (02) 9100 0451
Photo of Jenny Lian, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Jenny Lian
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
North Sydney, NSW 2060
I am a qualified psychotherapist and counsellor(PACFA No. 27709) who provides therapy in English, Mandarin, Cantonese and Teochew. My lived experience in both Asia and Australia equips me with a strong understanding of cross cultural and migration issues.
I am a qualified psychotherapist and counsellor(PACFA No. 27709) who provides therapy in English, Mandarin, Cantonese and Teochew. My lived experience in both Asia and Australia equips me with a strong understanding of cross cultural and migration issues.
(02) 5118 9019 View (02) 5118 9019
Photo of Michael Ossher, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Michael Ossher
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
North Sydney, NSW 2060
My role is to listen, to understand and to identify what it is that you seek help with. Our work will be about building an understanding of what is going on internally and externally for you, in particular, the things about yourself that you may not be aware of. As we gain this understanding of you, it becomes easier for you and I to make sense of what is happening within you, why you act and feel a particular way in certain situations and relationships. By understanding and acting on these things, you will be able to bring about change in your life.
My role is to listen, to understand and to identify what it is that you seek help with. Our work will be about building an understanding of what is going on internally and externally for you, in particular, the things about yourself that you may not be aware of. As we gain this understanding of you, it becomes easier for you and I to make sense of what is happening within you, why you act and feel a particular way in certain situations and relationships. By understanding and acting on these things, you will be able to bring about change in your life.
(02) 9159 6907 View (02) 9159 6907
Photo of Dony Chambers - Helm Psychology and Relationship Counselling , PsychD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Helm Psychology and Relationship Counselling
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
North Sydney, NSW 2060
I am a registered psychologist with over 15 years of clinical experience. I provide counselling and psychological therapy to individuals, couples and families. I have experience in Mood Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, Addictions, PTSD, Trauma, Psychotic Disorders, Anger Management, Relationship Counselling, and Stress Management.
I am a registered psychologist with over 15 years of clinical experience. I provide counselling and psychological therapy to individuals, couples and families. I have experience in Mood Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, Addictions, PTSD, Trauma, Psychotic Disorders, Anger Management, Relationship Counselling, and Stress Management.
(02) 9100 0940 View (02) 9100 0940
Photo of Russell Drinkwater, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Russell Drinkwater
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
North Sydney, NSW 2060
Are you feeling unhappy about your relationship? Are you arguing about the same issues and unable to reach a solution? On average people wait 6 years before seeking help with a relationship problem. The longer a problem persists, the greater the resentment builds towards your partner. •Individual and/or couples counselling to help people manage conflict. •Training in communication skills. •Helping to re-build trust after an affair. •Helping individuals to cope with separation/divorce. •Helping clients who have anxiety, depression or stress. •Helping men who are struggling. •Bereavement counselling• Grief and loss counselling.
Are you feeling unhappy about your relationship? Are you arguing about the same issues and unable to reach a solution? On average people wait 6 years before seeking help with a relationship problem. The longer a problem persists, the greater the resentment builds towards your partner. •Individual and/or couples counselling to help people manage conflict. •Training in communication skills. •Helping to re-build trust after an affair. •Helping individuals to cope with separation/divorce. •Helping clients who have anxiety, depression or stress. •Helping men who are struggling. •Bereavement counselling• Grief and loss counselling.
(02) 9159 6027 View (02) 9159 6027
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
North Sydney, NSW 2060
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

More Therapists Nearby

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 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 Michael Grunwald, Assoc MAPS, Psychologist
Michael Grunwald
Psychologist, Assoc MAPS
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
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 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
Photo of Cherie Marriott - Cherie Marriott - Couple and family counsellor, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Cherie Marriott - Couple and family counsellor
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
McMahons Point, NSW 2060
Cherie brings a mix of warmth and expert training to help couples and families navigate difficult patches in their relationships. She specialises in communication problems, escalating conflict, low intimacy, affairs, parenting struggles, ADHD, teen mental health, family blending, step-parenting, and complex childhood trauma. She has a particular interest in working with adult families around grief & loss, disagreements and cut-offs, money issues and narcissistic dynamics. She also has extensive experience in post-separation counselling, Family Court matters and shared parenting arrangements.
Cherie brings a mix of warmth and expert training to help couples and families navigate difficult patches in their relationships. She specialises in communication problems, escalating conflict, low intimacy, affairs, parenting struggles, ADHD, teen mental health, family blending, step-parenting, and complex childhood trauma. She has a particular interest in working with adult families around grief & loss, disagreements and cut-offs, money issues and narcissistic dynamics. She also has extensive experience in post-separation counselling, Family Court matters and shared parenting arrangements.
(02) 9100 0795 View (02) 9100 0795
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
Sydney, NSW 2000  (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 Jess Hodges, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Jess Hodges
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel overwhelmed, exhausted or struggling with motivation? Do you have sensitivities that leave you feeling judged by others, or misunderstood? Do you experience stuck patterns of behaviour that effect your ability to feel satisfaction in life and in relationships? Do you feel pressure to conform to societal norms and expectations, which leaves you feeling "othered" and isolated? I see you! You are not alone and you don't have to work this out by yourself. Together we can explore your lived experience and the many ways it impacts your sense of self, worthiness and belonging.
Do you feel overwhelmed, exhausted or struggling with motivation? Do you have sensitivities that leave you feeling judged by others, or misunderstood? Do you experience stuck patterns of behaviour that effect your ability to feel satisfaction in life and in relationships? Do you feel pressure to conform to societal norms and expectations, which leaves you feeling "othered" and isolated? I see you! You are not alone and you don't have to work this out by yourself. Together we can explore your lived experience and the many ways it impacts your sense of self, worthiness and belonging.
0408 486 282 View 0408 486 282
Elizabeth Gasson
Psychologist, PsyBA Prov
Verified Verified
Kirribilli, NSW 2061
I am here to support each and every person to overcome their cognitive difficulties. My goals are to see how you are struggling cognitively through discussion and various activities. I will not retire until you fully understand the ways in which that translates in an educational setting and how to support your own unique trajectory to a bright and successful future. I want to help each and every person be the best version of themselves and will help provide the tools to do that.
I am here to support each and every person to overcome their cognitive difficulties. My goals are to see how you are struggling cognitively through discussion and various activities. I will not retire until you fully understand the ways in which that translates in an educational setting and how to support your own unique trajectory to a bright and successful future. I want to help each and every person be the best version of themselves and will help provide the tools to do that.
(02) 9159 6064 View (02) 9159 6064
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 Amanda Gordon, Hon FAPS, Psychologist
Amanda Gordon
Psychologist, Hon FAPS
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
I have worked with individuals and couples for over thirty years, helping them negotiate the struggles of life in this time of quick change, uncertainty and significant social pressure. Relationships are the first victims when people become anxious or challenged in their lives. Yet I believe relationships are the core to good mental health and personal development. These issues are relevant to people of all ages, and not specific to gender, race or religion. The presenting symptom could be grief, anxiety, depression, arguments, irritability or any form of dysfunctional behaviour - the underlying issue has to be addressed.
I have worked with individuals and couples for over thirty years, helping them negotiate the struggles of life in this time of quick change, uncertainty and significant social pressure. Relationships are the first victims when people become anxious or challenged in their lives. Yet I believe relationships are the core to good mental health and personal development. These issues are relevant to people of all ages, and not specific to gender, race or religion. The presenting symptom could be grief, anxiety, depression, arguments, irritability or any form of dysfunctional behaviour - the underlying issue has to be addressed.
(02) 9053 4575 View (02) 9053 4575
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 Paula Vermunt, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Paula Vermunt
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
My approach to working with you is deeply present, creating the space for exploration, to heal, to grow and to discover the inner resources that are uniquely yours. I am passionate about the journey of walking beside you as you transition through life changes, connecting more deeply with your authentic self. Your journey is fully supported and respected for its own timing and unique healing process. I work holistically involving the mind, body, heart and spirit. This work is deep, transformative and empowering.
My approach to working with you is deeply present, creating the space for exploration, to heal, to grow and to discover the inner resources that are uniquely yours. I am passionate about the journey of walking beside you as you transition through life changes, connecting more deeply with your authentic self. Your journey is fully supported and respected for its own timing and unique healing process. I work holistically involving the mind, body, heart and spirit. This work is deep, transformative and empowering.
(02) 5603 4328 View (02) 5603 4328

See more therapy options for North Sydney

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.