Adoption Counselling in Sydney, NSW

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 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 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 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 Renee Claire Voice, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Renee Claire Voice
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Newport, NSW 2106
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 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 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 Ross Magiros - Psyhi Psychology Services, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Psyhi Psychology Services
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Brighton-Le-Sands, NSW 2216  (Online Only)
At Psyhi Psychology Services we believe EVERYBODY deserves to live a happy, healthy and fulfilled life. That’s why we have created an inviting, safe and non-judgemental space where you will feel heard, valued and supported. We have a deep awareness and understanding of the different challenges that can lead people to seek out therapy, therefore we will always demonstrate empathy and compassion in our interactions with you.
At Psyhi Psychology Services we believe EVERYBODY deserves to live a happy, healthy and fulfilled life. That’s why we have created an inviting, safe and non-judgemental space where you will feel heard, valued and supported. We have a deep awareness and understanding of the different challenges that can lead people to seek out therapy, therefore we will always demonstrate empathy and compassion in our interactions with you.
(02) 8806 0356 View (02) 8806 0356
Photo of Nicole Dunn, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Nicole Dunn
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlingford, NSW 2118
Nicole is a caring and engaging Psychologist who works across the lifespan from young children (with parents), adolescence, adults to elderly. Nicole is a warm and patient therapist who instantly puts clients at ease. She enjoys and matches the energy of kids and teens and also enjoys working with seasoned professionals who may be crossing challenges in their professional or personal lives.
Nicole is a caring and engaging Psychologist who works across the lifespan from young children (with parents), adolescence, adults to elderly. Nicole is a warm and patient therapist who instantly puts clients at ease. She enjoys and matches the energy of kids and teens and also enjoys working with seasoned professionals who may be crossing challenges in their professional or personal lives.
(02) 7804 4859 View (02) 7804 4859
Photo of Helen Brennan, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Helen Brennan
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Caringbah, NSW 2229
I am a warm and down-to-earth psychologist with a passion for working with clients to create the life they want to live. I bring a non-judgmental, supportive approach and a genuine care and respect for each client and the life experiences they bring to therapy. Drawing from current evidence-based practices, I work with clients to understand their specific goals, be it growth, healing, adjustment or other, and adapt the therapeutic support, strategies and tools to best meet their goals and make meaningful and lasting changes in their lives. My work focuses mainly with adults, including older adults, couples and families.
I am a warm and down-to-earth psychologist with a passion for working with clients to create the life they want to live. I bring a non-judgmental, supportive approach and a genuine care and respect for each client and the life experiences they bring to therapy. Drawing from current evidence-based practices, I work with clients to understand their specific goals, be it growth, healing, adjustment or other, and adapt the therapeutic support, strategies and tools to best meet their goals and make meaningful and lasting changes in their lives. My work focuses mainly with adults, including older adults, couples and families.
(02) 9538 7948 View (02) 9538 7948
Photo of Julia Roth, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Julia Roth
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Cronulla, NSW 2230  (Online Only)
Throughout my career as a Clinical Psychologist I have enjoyed working with adults and younger people with mental health problems in various psychological, psychotherapeutic, and psychiatric settings. Working within a psychodynamic framework, I focus on unconscious conflicts that cause symptoms and problems in day-to-day relationships with others. By jointly unravelling past experiences, we gain a deeper understanding of how your symptoms, relationship patterns and feelings are related to your own history and experiences.
Throughout my career as a Clinical Psychologist I have enjoyed working with adults and younger people with mental health problems in various psychological, psychotherapeutic, and psychiatric settings. Working within a psychodynamic framework, I focus on unconscious conflicts that cause symptoms and problems in day-to-day relationships with others. By jointly unravelling past experiences, we gain a deeper understanding of how your symptoms, relationship patterns and feelings are related to your own history and experiences.
(02) 9538 7005 x02 View (02) 9538 7005 x02
Photo of Russell Drinkwater, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Russell Drinkwater
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
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 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 Sandra Scott, MAPS, Psychologist
Sandra Scott
Psychologist, MAPS
Verified Verified
Drummoyne, NSW 2047
With a wide knowledge and 20 years clinical experience I use evidence-based therapies personalised to your treatment goals. I work with clients of all ages on all manner of complex concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, troubled relationships, grief, loss & infertility. I provide psychological assessment and diagnostic services to those seeking to understand the nuances of ADHD, ASD, LD (dyslexia) and other developmental difficulties. My specialised training in mind body connection, hypnosis and nutrition complements treatment for those seeking a holistic approach.
With a wide knowledge and 20 years clinical experience I use evidence-based therapies personalised to your treatment goals. I work with clients of all ages on all manner of complex concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, troubled relationships, grief, loss & infertility. I provide psychological assessment and diagnostic services to those seeking to understand the nuances of ADHD, ASD, LD (dyslexia) and other developmental difficulties. My specialised training in mind body connection, hypnosis and nutrition complements treatment for those seeking a holistic approach.
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Photo of Luciana Zeni, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Luciana Zeni
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brookvale, NSW 2100
I am passionate about supporting clients in their healing process through assisting them in learning more about themselves and developing new ways of coping with present and past challenges. I am a warm, supportive, caring, and compassionate psychologist and I believe each client is unique and therefore requires a tailored treatment strategy to achieve their therapy goals.
I am passionate about supporting clients in their healing process through assisting them in learning more about themselves and developing new ways of coping with present and past challenges. I am a warm, supportive, caring, and compassionate psychologist and I believe each client is unique and therefore requires a tailored treatment strategy to achieve their therapy goals.
(02) 8403 0009 View (02) 8403 0009
Photo of Mj (Mary Joy) Basilio, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Mj (Mary Joy) Basilio
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wahroonga, NSW 2076
Waitlist for new clients
My passion lies in working with people who are ready to add joy, love, and ease to their lives. Overcoming the barriers of depression, anxiety, self-doubt, and low confidence can be daunting, but seeking help is the first stride toward a brighter future. Together we can embark on a journey to tap into your inner beauty, strength, and resilience, transforming the relationships with yourself and with those you love. By nurturing these qualities, we cultivate a solid foundation that paves the way for a life filled with greater joy, fulfillment, and purpose. If you're ready to make some changes, let's set up a time to talk.
My passion lies in working with people who are ready to add joy, love, and ease to their lives. Overcoming the barriers of depression, anxiety, self-doubt, and low confidence can be daunting, but seeking help is the first stride toward a brighter future. Together we can embark on a journey to tap into your inner beauty, strength, and resilience, transforming the relationships with yourself and with those you love. By nurturing these qualities, we cultivate a solid foundation that paves the way for a life filled with greater joy, fulfillment, and purpose. If you're ready to make some changes, let's set up a time to talk.
(02) 9541 8788 View (02) 9541 8788
Photo of Naomi Severina Rose, Assoc MAPS, Psychologist
Naomi Severina Rose
Psychologist, Assoc MAPS
Verified Verified
Bella Vista, NSW 2153  (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 Calum Johal, MA, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Calum Johal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
We all face challenges in life. Whether it be feeling emotionally down, or anxious, or within our close personal relationships or our career. I believe that most people in these situations have a sense that something isn't right for them, but feel stuck on what to do about it. "I'm not totally happy in my relationship, but I love this person and want to make it work", "I'm unhappy at work, but I don't know what steps I can take to change things". People want clarity, my job is to work with them to find it.
We all face challenges in life. Whether it be feeling emotionally down, or anxious, or within our close personal relationships or our career. I believe that most people in these situations have a sense that something isn't right for them, but feel stuck on what to do about it. "I'm not totally happy in my relationship, but I love this person and want to make it work", "I'm unhappy at work, but I don't know what steps I can take to change things". People want clarity, my job is to work with them to find it.
(02) 9100 0025 View (02) 9100 0025
Photo of Esther Davis - Esther Davis Psychology, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Esther Davis Psychology
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Glebe, NSW 2037  (Online Only)
As a fellow human, I deeply understand that pain and suffering, although normal, can be exquisitely hard. I provide a safe space for you to explore the struggles in your life and how your backstory affects you today. Together we can discover and establish the story you want to lead going forward; one in which you can be at rest and flourish.
As a fellow human, I deeply understand that pain and suffering, although normal, can be exquisitely hard. I provide a safe space for you to explore the struggles in your life and how your backstory affects you today. Together we can discover and establish the story you want to lead going forward; one in which you can be at rest and flourish.
(02) 4214 4075 View (02) 4214 4075
Photo of Sasha Milos - HERE4U Counselling & Psychotherapy, MA, ACA-L3, Counsellor
HERE4U Counselling & Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I help people from all walks of life to live life as best versions of themselves. That means addressing issues like anxiety, depression, self-esteem, healing the inner child, practising effective communication skills, changing careers and more. As a culturally and linguistically diverse therapist, I have a unique understanding of the challenges and difficulties many families face in Australia, I am here to help, guide and support. For your convenience I offer flexible hours (including evening and weekends) over video or phone.
I help people from all walks of life to live life as best versions of themselves. That means addressing issues like anxiety, depression, self-esteem, healing the inner child, practising effective communication skills, changing careers and more. As a culturally and linguistically diverse therapist, I have a unique understanding of the challenges and difficulties many families face in Australia, I am here to help, guide and support. For your convenience I offer flexible hours (including evening and weekends) over video or phone.
(02) 8403 1338 View (02) 8403 1338
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See more therapy options for 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.