Culturally Sensitive Counselling in Wollongong, NSW

Photo of Sharon Lee - Good Minds, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Good Minds
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500  (Online Only)
Our Good Minds team are friendly, down-to-earth, culturally sensitive, who can help you cope with your life, emotions and relationships.
Are you looking for a psychologist with low gap fees or even Bulk Billing without wait times which could go on for months? Are you dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues (+ others) and have been on a waitlist and it's taking forever to see someone? We're here to assist you by providing Telehealth therapy via online or phone with $0 to low gap fees. Better yet, you can see someone in the team either this week, or next! We have a team of multi-cultural psychologists who can help you deal with a whole range of issues so get in contact with us ASAP!
Our Good Minds team are friendly, down-to-earth, culturally sensitive, who can help you cope with your life, emotions and relationships.
Are you looking for a psychologist with low gap fees or even Bulk Billing without wait times which could go on for months? Are you dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues (+ others) and have been on a waitlist and it's taking forever to see someone? We're here to assist you by providing Telehealth therapy via online or phone with $0 to low gap fees. Better yet, you can see someone in the team either this week, or next! We have a team of multi-cultural psychologists who can help you deal with a whole range of issues so get in contact with us ASAP!
(07) 2100 4330 View (07) 2100 4330
Photo of Jacob Amna Pervaiz Montoya - Counselling Wollongong, MPsych, PACFA, Counsellor
Counselling Wollongong
Counsellor, MPsych, PACFA
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Jacob and Amna will help you...“Once you understand the four mechanisms that determine why different parts of your ‘self’ do disturbing behaviours, then you can begin to compassionately change your behaviours in a sustainable way” Child mechanism an internal override of unique expression. Adolescent mechanism an attempt to override Externally. Adult mechanism an override of the Adolescent Mechanism. Self-Distraction/Medication an attempt to override seemingly overwhelming feelings. Our counsellors get the most fulfilment and satisfaction by helping people become ’emotionally independent’.
Jacob and Amna will help you...“Once you understand the four mechanisms that determine why different parts of your ‘self’ do disturbing behaviours, then you can begin to compassionately change your behaviours in a sustainable way” Child mechanism an internal override of unique expression. Adolescent mechanism an attempt to override Externally. Adult mechanism an override of the Adolescent Mechanism. Self-Distraction/Medication an attempt to override seemingly overwhelming feelings. Our counsellors get the most fulfilment and satisfaction by helping people become ’emotionally independent’.
(02) 4210 5604 View (02) 4210 5604
Photo of Karen Lee Isbister - Becoming Whole, Psychotherapist
Becoming Whole
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Karen brings the value of 20 years experience. Are you a determined, smart, driven and creative adult or teenager? Do you try hard but things that used to work don’t seem to be working anymore? Are you experiencing any of the following? : – Anxiety – Childhood Trauma – Guilt – Depression – Abuse – Shame – Conflict – Lack of Direction – Unmet Needs – Addictions – Bullying – Peer Pressure – Communication Barriers – Emotional Pain
Karen brings the value of 20 years experience. Are you a determined, smart, driven and creative adult or teenager? Do you try hard but things that used to work don’t seem to be working anymore? Are you experiencing any of the following? : – Anxiety – Childhood Trauma – Guilt – Depression – Abuse – Shame – Conflict – Lack of Direction – Unmet Needs – Addictions – Bullying – Peer Pressure – Communication Barriers – Emotional Pain
(02) 4214 4861 View (02) 4214 4861
Photo of Alissa McAlpine, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Alissa McAlpine
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Waitlist for new clients
I work exclusively with adolescents and young adults seeking medium/longer-term psychotherapy. Working consistently over time allows us to create a safe space to openly explore who they are, why they feel the way they feel (and do what they do) to pinpoint what they truly need to thrive; and I'll be there for support and guidance as this self-knowledge translates into meaningful real-world choices. My style is conversational, collaborative and down-to-earth - we are in it together and our sessions are real, present and genuine time together.
I work exclusively with adolescents and young adults seeking medium/longer-term psychotherapy. Working consistently over time allows us to create a safe space to openly explore who they are, why they feel the way they feel (and do what they do) to pinpoint what they truly need to thrive; and I'll be there for support and guidance as this self-knowledge translates into meaningful real-world choices. My style is conversational, collaborative and down-to-earth - we are in it together and our sessions are real, present and genuine time together.
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Photo of Nivi (Nivedita) Malik, MA, Psychologist
Nivi (Nivedita) Malik
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wollongong, NSW 2500
I am a registered psychologist with over 14 years of clinical experience working with a wider range of range of client group in UK and Australia. Services that I deliver includes: Treatment for anxiety, depression, PTSD, behavioural difficulties and other mental health issues for children, adolescents, and adults. *Post and perinatal depression *Neurodevelopmental Disorders, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD *Cognitive Assessments: including WISC-V, WPPSI- IV, and *Parenting Skills Training for behavioural management of children and adolescents with challenging behaviours.
I am a registered psychologist with over 14 years of clinical experience working with a wider range of range of client group in UK and Australia. Services that I deliver includes: Treatment for anxiety, depression, PTSD, behavioural difficulties and other mental health issues for children, adolescents, and adults. *Post and perinatal depression *Neurodevelopmental Disorders, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD *Cognitive Assessments: including WISC-V, WPPSI- IV, and *Parenting Skills Training for behavioural management of children and adolescents with challenging behaviours.
(02) 4607 2716 View (02) 4607 2716
Photo of Karen Towers, MA, PACFA, Counsellor
Karen Towers
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Waitlist for new clients
Towers Counselling is a creative & personal service which now specialises with children aged 5 to 12. I have over 30 years of experience with children and teenagers as a teacher. I am a clinical level counsellor & psychotherapist with 14 years of experience with clients from vulnerable backgrounds. I currently work in private practice. Children under the NDIS scheme who are self and plan-managed are able to access sessions. I am also an approved counsellor with Victims Services. Counselling for 22 hours or more can be applied for without a gap fee.
Towers Counselling is a creative & personal service which now specialises with children aged 5 to 12. I have over 30 years of experience with children and teenagers as a teacher. I am a clinical level counsellor & psychotherapist with 14 years of experience with clients from vulnerable backgrounds. I currently work in private practice. Children under the NDIS scheme who are self and plan-managed are able to access sessions. I am also an approved counsellor with Victims Services. Counselling for 22 hours or more can be applied for without a gap fee.
(02) 6189 2981 View (02) 6189 2981
Photo of Brooke Sainsbury, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Brooke Sainsbury
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
I have immediate availability for both child and adult therapy. I am also offering cognitive, NDIS and ADHD assessments.
I have immediate availability for both child and adult therapy. I am also offering cognitive, NDIS and ADHD assessments.
(02) 4214 8619 View (02) 4214 8619
Photo of Holly Read, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Holly Read
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Waitlist for new clients
I have been supporting adults & young people with their mental health challenges for over 20 years, working with diverse populations. Including, over 13 years of experience working with a range of presenting issues in the field of clinical adolescent mental health and Indigenous health. With extensive counselling and psychotherapy experience obtained in a variety of setting including, but not limited to; private practise, NSW Health Dept., Corrective Services, Education Dept., Universities, private detox, and rehabilitation services.
I have been supporting adults & young people with their mental health challenges for over 20 years, working with diverse populations. Including, over 13 years of experience working with a range of presenting issues in the field of clinical adolescent mental health and Indigenous health. With extensive counselling and psychotherapy experience obtained in a variety of setting including, but not limited to; private practise, NSW Health Dept., Corrective Services, Education Dept., Universities, private detox, and rehabilitation services.
(02) 4210 5768 View (02) 4210 5768
Photo of Ayesha Nhem, PACFA, Counsellor
Ayesha Nhem
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Worries, frustrations, and disappointments are common in life. But no matter if your issues are current or recurrent, the right step is to seek help. Even if your problems right now feel like they're getting the best of you - know that there is help available for this! It takes courage to seek help and I'm glad you're here. You deserve to live a life that makes you excited to get up in the morning. As your therapist, I will help you deal with emotional and behavioural problems more effectively. ‌
Worries, frustrations, and disappointments are common in life. But no matter if your issues are current or recurrent, the right step is to seek help. Even if your problems right now feel like they're getting the best of you - know that there is help available for this! It takes courage to seek help and I'm glad you're here. You deserve to live a life that makes you excited to get up in the morning. As your therapist, I will help you deal with emotional and behavioural problems more effectively. ‌
(02) 4210 5091 View (02) 4210 5091
Photo of Graciela Silva - Silva Counselling, MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Silva Counselling
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
The goal at Silva Counselling is to see clients achieve a healthier and wholesome way of life, encompassing their emotional, mental, physical and relational worlds. Collaboratively, we work to identify and learn what has you or your relationship stuck. We explore the roadblocks and ways to move past them. Silva Counselling is passionate in seeing individuals and couples thrive in every way. The outcomes achieved are a testament to the commitment and resilience within individuals and couples. This is certainly not an overnight achievement but with diligence and dedication, change and growth is possible.
The goal at Silva Counselling is to see clients achieve a healthier and wholesome way of life, encompassing their emotional, mental, physical and relational worlds. Collaboratively, we work to identify and learn what has you or your relationship stuck. We explore the roadblocks and ways to move past them. Silva Counselling is passionate in seeing individuals and couples thrive in every way. The outcomes achieved are a testament to the commitment and resilience within individuals and couples. This is certainly not an overnight achievement but with diligence and dedication, change and growth is possible.
(02) 4208 0614 View (02) 4208 0614
Photo of Joel Hoffman, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Joel Hoffman
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Joel is a clinical psychologist, based in Thirroul (Illawarra). He believes all of us need help in our mental health journey from time to time. Joel aims to provide a space that is non-judgemental, open and understanding for you to talk about and work through the issues that are important to you. As a clinical psychologist, Joel is trained in assisting with a wide range of mental health difficulties, including trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, stress, drug and alcohol issues and more. He also draws on his extensive research experience in developing trauma-focused therapies for refugee communities and in treating moral injury.
Joel is a clinical psychologist, based in Thirroul (Illawarra). He believes all of us need help in our mental health journey from time to time. Joel aims to provide a space that is non-judgemental, open and understanding for you to talk about and work through the issues that are important to you. As a clinical psychologist, Joel is trained in assisting with a wide range of mental health difficulties, including trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, stress, drug and alcohol issues and more. He also draws on his extensive research experience in developing trauma-focused therapies for refugee communities and in treating moral injury.
(02) 4214 4735 View (02) 4214 4735
Photo of Sue White, PACFA, Counsellor
Sue White
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Feeling stuck and battling with issues that are stopping you from living the life you know is waiting for you? Why not work through those problems in a supported way to get to where you want to be. Perhaps you are overcoming grief, wanting help with an addiction, needing help with personal relationships or wanting to build confidence, overcome anxiety and step out into the world feeling positive and calm. I'm here to help you in a non judgmental and inclusive way to overcome barriers and move forward.
Feeling stuck and battling with issues that are stopping you from living the life you know is waiting for you? Why not work through those problems in a supported way to get to where you want to be. Perhaps you are overcoming grief, wanting help with an addiction, needing help with personal relationships or wanting to build confidence, overcome anxiety and step out into the world feeling positive and calm. I'm here to help you in a non judgmental and inclusive way to overcome barriers and move forward.
(02) 4210 5759 View (02) 4210 5759
Photo of Paul Thompson, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Paul Thompson
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Waitlist for new clients
My approach to counselling is to provide a safe and welcoming environment where you feel comfortable, respected and free to explore your reasons for getting in touch. Together, we can work towards finding the right tools to overcome many challenging experiences, ranging from low mood and energy, restlessness and irritability, relationship difficulties and more. If you feel that I can be a support to help you move towards your goals, I would love to hear from you.
My approach to counselling is to provide a safe and welcoming environment where you feel comfortable, respected and free to explore your reasons for getting in touch. Together, we can work towards finding the right tools to overcome many challenging experiences, ranging from low mood and energy, restlessness and irritability, relationship difficulties and more. If you feel that I can be a support to help you move towards your goals, I would love to hear from you.
(02) 4210 5121 View (02) 4210 5121
Photo of Brad Zygfryd Romaniszyn - Unlocking You Counselling, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Unlocking You Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Brad has successfully worked with clients from all ages and backgrounds to help address issues as broad as relationship difficulties, poor self-image, career development and academic results. With over two decades as an educator and learning support teacher, he has developed an insight into the complex issues that families face during the schooling years. Brad uses a variety of counselling tools to help his clients explore their own thoughts and patterns of behaviour to move past disappointments and difficult experiences, or to grow in areas that will allow them to think more clearly and maintain healthy and positive relationships.
Brad has successfully worked with clients from all ages and backgrounds to help address issues as broad as relationship difficulties, poor self-image, career development and academic results. With over two decades as an educator and learning support teacher, he has developed an insight into the complex issues that families face during the schooling years. Brad uses a variety of counselling tools to help his clients explore their own thoughts and patterns of behaviour to move past disappointments and difficult experiences, or to grow in areas that will allow them to think more clearly and maintain healthy and positive relationships.
(02) 9158 6404 View (02) 9158 6404
Photo of Crystal (Yee Tak) Lee, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Crystal (Yee Tak) Lee
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
I work with individuals aged 15 years and above who experience mild to severe levels of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, stress, sleep issues, intrusive and/or self-loathing thoughts, interpersonal issues, complicated grief, childhood trauma and personality disorders. I incorporate a range of evidence-based treatments, including Schema Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal therapy (IPT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), mindfulness and relaxation techniques.
I work with individuals aged 15 years and above who experience mild to severe levels of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, stress, sleep issues, intrusive and/or self-loathing thoughts, interpersonal issues, complicated grief, childhood trauma and personality disorders. I incorporate a range of evidence-based treatments, including Schema Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal therapy (IPT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), mindfulness and relaxation techniques.
(02) 4214 8063 View (02) 4214 8063
Photo of Adam Ryan Park - Adam Ryan Park - The Curiosity Space, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Adam Ryan Park - The Curiosity Space
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500  (Online Only)
Many of my clients are exhausted from a life in which everyone else's needs have always been made more important than their own. From the earliest age, they weren't supported to have boundaries, and now find themselves struggling with self-esteem, low mood, anxiety, problems with keeping supportive friendships and partnerships alive, struggling to assert themselves at work or cope with professional demands, and feeling stuck in relationship dynamics in which they can't be their true self. They want to put their painful past behind them, and to have their needs recognised and allowed space going forward.
Many of my clients are exhausted from a life in which everyone else's needs have always been made more important than their own. From the earliest age, they weren't supported to have boundaries, and now find themselves struggling with self-esteem, low mood, anxiety, problems with keeping supportive friendships and partnerships alive, struggling to assert themselves at work or cope with professional demands, and feeling stuck in relationship dynamics in which they can't be their true self. They want to put their painful past behind them, and to have their needs recognised and allowed space going forward.
(03) 7003 2762 View (03) 7003 2762
Photo of Sharleen Gonzalez, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Sharleen Gonzalez
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500  (Online Only)
I'm a clinical psychologist who works with all groups (18+) on a diverse range of mental health issues, I have a particular interest in trauma, grief, relationship issues, depression, life transitions (such as separation), personality disorders (such as helping individuals who are struggling with borderline personality disorder traits or helping people manage difficult relationship with individuals with narcissistic traits or helping individuals who have suffered narcissistic abuse), multicultural / culturally and linguistically diverse populations, and helping people who are struggling with sexual difficulties or dysfunction.
I'm a clinical psychologist who works with all groups (18+) on a diverse range of mental health issues, I have a particular interest in trauma, grief, relationship issues, depression, life transitions (such as separation), personality disorders (such as helping individuals who are struggling with borderline personality disorder traits or helping people manage difficult relationship with individuals with narcissistic traits or helping individuals who have suffered narcissistic abuse), multicultural / culturally and linguistically diverse populations, and helping people who are struggling with sexual difficulties or dysfunction.
(02) 4012 2512 View (02) 4012 2512
Photo of Rachel Ramsis Farag - Rachel Farag Art Therapy , MA, AThR, Psychotherapist
Rachel Farag Art Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, AThR
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
I work predominantly in First Nations, Black, Brown, Migrant and Queer spaces; largely with adults, adolescents and children (including families). I am passionate about working along side people, through art making and conversation, to work through trauma, understand themselves better or generally build a stronger sense of wellbeing in their lives. Regardless of your context, I will support you to guide your own therapeutic journey, checking in with your limits, cultural and spiritual ways of seeing and basic needs. Though art based therapeutic work I have witnessed the beautiful flourishing of individuals, families and communities.
I work predominantly in First Nations, Black, Brown, Migrant and Queer spaces; largely with adults, adolescents and children (including families). I am passionate about working along side people, through art making and conversation, to work through trauma, understand themselves better or generally build a stronger sense of wellbeing in their lives. Regardless of your context, I will support you to guide your own therapeutic journey, checking in with your limits, cultural and spiritual ways of seeing and basic needs. Though art based therapeutic work I have witnessed the beautiful flourishing of individuals, families and communities.
(08) 7943 6456 View (08) 7943 6456
Photo of Malika Ferry - Freedom Psychology and Life Coaching, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Freedom Psychology and Life Coaching
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Welcome! I’m Malika, a clinical psychologist who provides therapy to people who are 17 years old and above. Do you feel like it’s time to face what's holding you back... are you done with feeling stuck? I’m passionate about helping people to overcome challenges, to find their authentic voice, heal, build their resilience, take charge of their lives, & reach their full potential. To do this I draw from evidence-based, collaborative methods, where I listen closely not just to understand a person’s challenges, but I also listen & ask questions to help people uncover & lean into their unique strengths, values, & goals.
Welcome! I’m Malika, a clinical psychologist who provides therapy to people who are 17 years old and above. Do you feel like it’s time to face what's holding you back... are you done with feeling stuck? I’m passionate about helping people to overcome challenges, to find their authentic voice, heal, build their resilience, take charge of their lives, & reach their full potential. To do this I draw from evidence-based, collaborative methods, where I listen closely not just to understand a person’s challenges, but I also listen & ask questions to help people uncover & lean into their unique strengths, values, & goals.
(02) 9100 0395 View (02) 9100 0395
Photo of Pause You Counselling, MC, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Pause You Counselling
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Are you experiencing stress or anxiety? Tired of constantly trying to please others or striving for perfection? Prolonged stress from these pressures can lead to burnout. Therapy offers targeted strategies to help you effectively manage your emotions, thoughts, and behaviours. In a supportive environment, you can gain new perspectives, navigate challenging situations, and uncover a sense of direction, purpose, and meaning. A life that is authentic to you. If you would like to make lasting change, I can help you develop healthier coping mechanisms. I'm here to support you on your journey towards healing and growth.
Are you experiencing stress or anxiety? Tired of constantly trying to please others or striving for perfection? Prolonged stress from these pressures can lead to burnout. Therapy offers targeted strategies to help you effectively manage your emotions, thoughts, and behaviours. In a supportive environment, you can gain new perspectives, navigate challenging situations, and uncover a sense of direction, purpose, and meaning. A life that is authentic to you. If you would like to make lasting change, I can help you develop healthier coping mechanisms. I'm here to support you on your journey towards healing and growth.
(02) 5135 1216 View (02) 5135 1216
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Culturally Sensitive Counsellors

How does culturally sensitive therapy work?

A culturally sensitive therapist will tailor their approach to therapy based on the individual client’s background. This may include changing their style of interaction (asking open-ended questions vs. being the “expert” voice), their affect (seeming warm or “neutral”), how much personal information they disclose about themselves, and more. It’s also important for a culturally sensitive therapist to acknowledge larger societal forces that may impact their client due to the client’s background.

How effective is culturally sensitive therapy?

Some professionals have expressed concern about highlighting cultural differences in therapy, suggesting that it might promote stereotypes and harm the therapeutic bond; however, many experts agree that cultural sensitivity tends to strengthen the connection between therapist and client and help clients feel heard and understood. A culturally sensitive approach to therapy can be especially helpful for those not in the cultural majority, especially when combined with proven therapies like Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).

What are the limitations of a culturally sensitive approach to therapy?

While being culturally sensitive is generally a valuable skill to have, a therapist cannot treat every client from a similar background the same way. Each client is an individual with their own values, personal preferences, and life experiences that will need to be explored during therapy. In addition, it’s rare for a therapist and client to have identical backgrounds, so there may be some cross-cultural differences to navigate during therapy, but a culturally sensitive therapist can do so with empathy and respect.

Can culturally sensitive therapy be done online?

Yes, online therapy using a culturally sensitive approach can be beneficial. Therapy can sometimes be difficult to access for clients from diverse backgrounds and socioeconomic standing. The array of mental health support available through the internet makes it possible for clients to find a good therapist match regardless of where they live.