Chris is a registered General Psychologist. After completing his undergraduate studies Chris worked in child family welfare settings in both the government and non-government sectors for 20 years (in Auckland, Sydney, Brisbane, and UK), including statutory child protection. Chris has undertaken practice-based counselling roles, as well as supervisory, leadership and management duties. Chris registered as a psychologist in 2001 and since that time has worked in private practice in Brisbane, and more recently on the Gold Coast. Chris has experience working with people across the life span with a range of presentations including depression; anxiety; trauma; adjustment to injury; grief and loss; Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD); parenting children with challenging behaviour; working with anger. Chris believes that relationship is vital to the process of change and growth and emphasises the establishment and maintenance of safety in the counselling environment. Chris can employ a range of psychological approaches including CBT; crisis intervention; and has completed training in experiential and mindful based psychotherapy (which has a focus on developmental and other trauma). Chris believes that what has happened in our past is important, and equally as important is how we have organized our character and personality around these experiences. It is as important to listen to the storyteller as much as it is to listen to the story. Chris’s areas of interest include working with people who are experiencing heightened emotional states (e.g. intense sadness, anger, confusion) that may arise from trauma and other significant life transitions.

Hello, I'm Christie. I'm a Psychologist with General Registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). I graduated from the University of Queensland with a Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) in 2018. After spending some time traveling, I completed the 4+2 Internship to become a psychologist here at Drop of Life. I have experience working across private and government mental health settings. I consider it a privilege to be able to listen to your story, hold space for you and walk alongside you during your therapeutic journey. I work from a client centred approach, meaning I believe YOU are the expert to your life, and my hope is that I can help you to explore and uncover your own inner resources and strengths. I draw on a number of different therapeutic approaches in my work, including (but not limited to) Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Compassion Focused Therapy. I also work using a trauma informed and culturally sensitive approach. I aim to be a warm, compassionate and approachable clinician. My passion is practicing a combination of holistic, systemic and client-centred approaches in order to help my clients overcome the struggles that they face. While I enjoy working with people of all ages across the lifespan, I have a clinical interest in adolescent and young adult mental health concerns. I work therapeutically to support abroad scope of disorders, but my particular areas of interest are: Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Emotional Regulation, Attachment-related concerns, Life stressors and transitions, Adolescent mental health, Young adult mental health, Self-esteem and identity concerns. I look forward to meeting you!

Claudia is a Psychologist here at Drop of Life. She originally graduated with a Bachelor's degree of Psychology in Spain and completed that with a Healthcare Master's Degree of Child and Youth Psychology in 2013. She has experience treating a wide range of presentations and working with people of all ages, from infants to adults. She moved to Australia over 5 years ago and continued to practice remotely as a Psychologist in Spain. Claudia is now practicing as a Provisional Psychologist at Drop of Life and soon to be fully registered as a Psychologist. Claudia's experience and special interest is working working holistically and therapeutically with the whole person, promoting their social, emotional, cognitive and physical development. Claudia understands that all of these levels are interconnected, and that treating the mind requires treating the emotional body as well. She has experience working with mood disorders, personal growth, PTSD, Adjustment Disorders, attachment disorders, stress, and many other presentations. Claudia has a genuine interest in working with children (Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Learning/Education/Social/Developmental Difficulties, Behavioural Management – from ages 0 to 10), parenting and perinatal mental health (before and after birth). In Claudia's opinion, illness and stress affects not only one’s physical, but also one’s mental, emotional, and general well-being. Through her own personal experience, she believes that psychotherapy encourages a person’s natural healing abilities to emerge and balance the entire body. With a genuine love for guiding and finding strategies and tools, Claudia utilises compassion, intuition and deep knowledge to create the treatment that you deserve and desire. Claudia is looking forward to meeting you here at Drop of Life.

Dayna is a Provisional Psychologist completing her 4 + 2 pathway at Drop of Life Psychology Clinic. She completed her Bachelor of Psychological Science at Southern Cross University in 2020 and her Honours at Bond University in 2021. Once Dayna has completed her internship, she will continue on at Drop of Life as a fully registered psychologist. Dayna completes initial assessments for all new clients as well as offering consultations and ongoing support. Dayna sees clients across the lifespan experiencing depression, anxiety, attachment and relationship issues, ASD, neurodevelopmental disorders and trauma. Dayna is also available for assessments of memory, personality and intelligence. Dayna provides a warm and supportive therapeutic environment. She is passionate about providing clients with an individualised, holistic approach and is committed to supporting clients achieve their goals and overcome their unique challenges.

Clinical Psychologist

Narelle Duncan is a registered psychologist with General Registration with the Psychology Board of Australia. She is completing her PhD in Clinical Psychology with Griffith University researching factors which support individuals and couples in coping with interpersonal stress and conflict. Her research has been published in peer-reviewed academic journals helping to inform the link between mindfulness (i.e., decentering), coping, and the reduction of interpersonal stress. With 25 years experience working in the complementary allied health field, Narelle has a passion for supporting people in living happier healthier lives. Narelle values education and an individual’s right to informed choice. She has lectured and facilitated workshops on a variety of health and counselling topics within complementary health and provided academic instruction to undergraduate psychology students at Griffith University. During her Masters in Clinical Psychology traineeship, Narelle has worked with children, adults, and couples experiencing difficulties making life adjustments and going through symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression. Using a holistic evidence-based practice approach Narelle collaborates with clients to identify goals and facilitate a treatment program with a client-centred focus. Narelle also has experience working with Paediatricians and GPs in assessing neurodevelopmental disorders in children and adults including offering recommendations after diagnosis. Narelle facilitates a range of evidence-based therapies including acceptance and commitment, cognitive-behaviour, emotion-focused, mindfulness-based cognitive, and motivational interviewing which are chosen based on best fit to the client’s needs and goals.

BSc Psychology (Hons) / PhD in Psychology

Florence is a provisional psychologist who is dedicated to assisting individuals to create a life of wellbeing and strong mental health. Florence works with adolescents and adults. Florence has experience working with individuals in crisis and crisis management, particularly relating to family related issues, sexual assault, domestic and family violence, suicide, and suicidal ideations. Florence also has experience working with adolescents in a secondary school setting where she gained knowledge in supporting adolescents in their transition to adulthood and finding their identity as young adults. Florence prides herself on creating a warm, safe, and empathetic space for clients to feel at ease to discuss and work through their concerns. Florence practices client centred care, treating all clients as the experts in their own lives. She has strong skills in building rapport and trust to ensure clients can safely meet their goals. Florence offers evidence-based therapy, specifically, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.

Psychosexual Therapist Raised and based on Yugambeh Country (Gold Coast Queensland), Ksenija practices as a psychosexual therapist passionate about empowering and counselling people through their sexual issues and journey. Ksenija has completed her postgraduate diploma in counselling and recently completed her Master of Science in Medicine (Sexual and Reproductive Health), specialising in Psychosexual Therapy. She has also completed Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) training and has special interest in Gestalt, Schema Therapy, and trauma focused CBT. Ksenija currently holds over eight years of experience in nursing after completing her Bachelor of Nursing and Post Graduate Certificate in Critical Care Nursing. Professional accreditation- Australian Counsellors Association, Society of Australian Sexologists, the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). Ksenija is a driven individual passionate about applying her interest and knowledge around sex in the therapeutic space. She has a client-centred holistic approach to her care and prioritises the sexual, physical, and mental well-being of her clients. Ksenija has experience working with people from adolescents to the aging population and will continue working with clients across the lifespan. Ksenija has a developing practice of supporting individuals working through issues and concerns surrounding sexuality and sexual functioning. She is also passionate about helping individuals orientate around sexual disorders and comorbidity, disability, ageing and helping break through sexual schemas and shame. She holds a progressive view on sex and gender and is queer (LGBTQIA+SB), kinks and fetishes, open and poly-relationships friendly. She warmly welcomes each client with an open mind and encourages open discussions in a judgment-free space. She emphasises the importance of establishing her clients’ individual goals and needs. She continues to support them to achieve their desired outcomes in the therapeutic dyad, and alongside a multidisciplinary team such as psychologists, pelvic floor physiotherapists, gynaecologists, general practitioners and more. ‍ What Ksenija works with - Desire, arousal orgasmic/ejaculatory disorders - Pre and post STI and HIV testing counselling - Genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorders - Sexuality and co-morbidities, disability, and ageing - Sexual skills coaching - Desire discrepancy - Sex education - Sexual schemas and shame - LGBTQIA+SB support and gender affirming facilitation

Martinis a provisional psychologist at Drop of Life. In Chile, he completed his Bachelor of Psychological Science and Master of Organisational Psychology at Adolfo Ibanez University. He moved to Australia over 8 years ago and in 2023, he went on to complete his Master of Professional Psychology at Griffith University. Martin brings a wealth of experience across diverse domains, spanning clinical, organisational, and sport psychology. Martin strives to create a safe and collaborative space, honouring each individual's unique experiences. Martin approaches therapy with empathy, emphasizing the client's strengths and fostering insight and positive change in mood and overall well-being. Throughout his journey, Martin has cultivated experience in Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance-Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based interventions. His scope of practice spans diverse areas, including depression, anxiety, trauma, attachment, interpersonal challenges, neurodevelopmental disorders, and performance enhancement. Passionate about empowering individuals across the lifespan to navigate life's challenges, Martin utilizes evidence-based practices tailored to each person. Martinis deeply committed to integrating the principles of positive psychology into his practice, placing emphasis on strengths, fostering personal growth, and enhancing overall well-being. Martin aims to facilitate individual development and resilience, guiding each person toward the goal of flourishing and thriving, acknowledging that this journey is often a continuous pursuit. Martin looks forward to continuing his journey as a fully registered psychologist with clinical endorsement, committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those he works with.

Natalie Turvey is the Principal Psychologist and Director of Drop of Life Psychology Clinic and its affiliated services, Psychology at Home and Natalie Anne Turvey: Nurturing Healthier Relationships. She is a Registered Psychologist, Clinical Hypnotherapist, Author and Professional Speaker with over 20 years’ experience. Natalie has spent the past two decades working in a varied array of Psychological roles, including Schools, Recruitment, Human Resources, Corrective Services, Department of Child Safety before establishing Drop of Life Psychology Clinic. Natalie has grown her Group Private Practice to represent a safe, warm and supportive environment for all, where you feel ‘Cared for, Connected and in Control.’ Natalie is passionate about supporting the next generation of psychologists and provides supervision and mentoring for Psychology Interns and new graduates. In addition, Natalie has embarked into the digital world and established a range of online programs. Natalie runs 3 Day Retreats for Busy Boss Women where she lovingly guides guests to break old habits and implement healthier ones, so they can rediscover Health and Happiness. She supports women to turn inwards and learn to control what they have control of! The goal of the retreat is to Relax, Get Spoiled and Learn more than people thought possible about themselves. For more information on Natalie's services, head to www.natalieturvey.com.au

Counselling, Psychotherapy, and Clinical EFT Hello, I'm Elissa. It's a privilege for me to join you on your journey toward healing, self-awareness, and a life reflecting your deepest values. In my practice, I aim to provide a nurturing space for you to explore your thoughts and emotions safely. With a Postgraduate degree in Counselling and progressing towards a Master's in Counseling & Psychotherapy, I approach each individual with deep empathy, understanding, and a genuine appreciation for the uniqueness of your story. My therapeutic approach is person-centered, enriched with a variety of methods such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFiT), and Clinical Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT). These are all framed within a trauma-informed lens, acknowledging the intricate layers of personal history and emotional experiences. ACT helps foster self-compassion, acceptance of our emotional and cognitive experiences, and commitment to actions aligned with core values. This approach promotes psychological flexibility, enabling you to navigate life's challenges, make healthy decisions, and live authentically. EFiT focuses on exploring your emotional world, enhancing emotional resilience, embracing vulnerabilities, and fostering self-discovery and emotional wellness. By delving into attachment patterns, EFiT strengthens internal connections and improves relationships, facilitating emotional healing and deeper relational bonds. Clinical EFT, a cornerstone of my practice, merges cognitive and exposure therapies with acupressure, addressing the physical and emotional aspects of trauma and stress. It's a leading-edge somatic tool, recognised forints immediate and lasting relief, and emphasises the body's integral role in mental health. The efficacy of Clinical EFT in reducing stress, anxiety, trauma, and a range of other issues is well-documented, marking its prominence in the evolution of psychotherapy. My empathetic, non-judgmental approach is shaped by my own journey through Complex PTSD, offering a relatable and safe environment for clients. Welcoming individuals at all life stages, including children and those who are neurodiverse, I provide care tailored to each person’s unique needs. I believe in the inherent strength and wisdom each person holds for their healing and am committed to supporting and guiding you every step of the way.

Nicole has over 20 years' experience working as a Psychologist and Family Therapist, having completed a Masters in Couple and Family Therapy in 1999.  Since this time she has continued her study relationships and emotional systems applying this knowledge in professional and personal life. Nicole is committed to working with you in your struggles and successes and supporting your learning and growth in order to improve your life and relationships.She has worked in wide range of settings, Sexual Assault Counselling, Family Therapy, Relationship Counselling, Mental Health Services and Schools. In these services she has worked with children, young people, adults and families. She is interested in working with individuals struggling with issues with anxiety, depression, grief, parenting and adjustment issues. She is interested in looking at these issues in the context of their relationships, the impact of important others on them and in turn their impact on others and how this relates to their symptoms. Nicole assists people to discover their own solutions by collaborating with them to understand their situation.

Tess is an Accredited Practising Dietitian and is our first Dietitian to join the team at Drop of Life. She completed her Bachelor of Nutrition and Dietetics at Griffith University here on the Gold Coast. Along with her studies, she completed an intensive 5-month clinical and public health placement, where she provided care and clinical intervention to both adults and children and developed and implemented community health initiatives. Tess’s approach to care supports and educates clients to feel empowered on their nutrition journey. With her own experiences navigating chronic health conditions and falling into the dieting-trend cycle, she is passionate about supporting clients in navigating the complex world of nutrition trends and misinformation. Through using the Nutrition Care Process, Tess prioritises an evidence-based approach to care with a client-centred focus. She provides a safe environment where no question is a silly question and will work closely with you to create realistic and achievable goals for you to be able to show up in life feeling your best. She values the importance of taking a collaborative and holistic approach to care working closely with other healthcare professionals to ensure best practice is always prioritised. Tess’s areas of interest include: - Women's health (ie; endometriosis, adenomyosis, PCOS, pain management) - Disordersof the gastrointestinal system (ie; IBD, IBS, diverticular disease) - Pre/postnatalNutrition + gestational diabetes - Health-centred approach to weigh management - Allergies and intolerances - Nutrition support for the elderly