READ CLINIC - WEST GOSFORD


READ CLINIC - WEST GOSFORD

Practitioners at this location

Andrew Sozomenou

Psychologist

I come from a place of seeing you as a unique individual who has been shaped by your past experiences, your environment, family, the way you see the world and your present circumstances. I will work towards creating a safe therapeutic environment in which we can explore and understand each of these areas and how they may be influencing your present concerns and patterns in your life. Treatment will be individualised to your specific needs and goals. I will work collaboratively with you on this journey and will go at your pace with compassion, care and empathy. I have experience working with complex presentations over longer periods. I will work with you using a range of approaches I have found to be the most helpful, predominantly EMDR (Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing) and IFS (Internal Family Systems/Parts work), but will also rely on key aspects from CBT, DBT, ACT, Schema therapy and mindfulness strategies. Andrew’s Qualifications & Experience Andrew is a Senior Registered Psychologist with over 25 years-experience. Andrew is known for working with individual’s who have previously struggled to achieve results in therapy. Andrew is passionate about treating individuals who have experienced trauma: including Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Complex Trauma, Trauma that stems from events experienced as an adult or in childhood, including adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse; and attachment trauma. He also has experience in working with Dissociative Identity Disorder, Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder (previously Conversion Disorder), Personality Disorder’s, treatment resistant Depression and Anxiety. Andrew completed his Clinical Masters Degree with ACAP in 2022 and his BSc (Psychology) and Honours Degree at the University of NSW in 1994. He predominantly works with adults with complex presentations, but has previously worked with children, adolescents, family’s and couples from diverse backgrounds. Andrew is a member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS); a board approved supervisor; and member of the Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing Association of Australia (EMDRAA). He is registered to provide services through: Medicare, NDIS and privately. Andrew has appeared on ABC radio; has written brief articles, two books and published over 7 chapters. He has presented at international conferences, forums and workshops. To listen to a Podcast of Andrew visit: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRYsFeV2Vhe7659gb_KsdHA Before joining the READ Clinic, he had worked for a number of different government services. For 7 years he managed the Gaining Ground Program, an early intervention and education Program for children with a parent with a mental health problem; for over 10 years he worked for the Transcultural Mental Health Centre, working with people from culturally diverse backgrounds and refugee backgrounds; and was the School-Link Coordinator, involved in implementing a whole of school approach to addressing the mental health and well-being of children attending High Schools. Andrew is a trauma informed therapist who works from a broad therapeutic base specialising in: Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR); Parts Work – Internal Family Systems (IFS); Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT); Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT); Schema Therapy and the use of Mindfulness.
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Bella Salvo

Psychologist

Therapy with Bella In my practice, I emphasise a warm, empathetic, and collaborative approach. Therapy will be tailored to you, as I strive to work with my clients to understand what they want out of the therapy process. We will work together to create a safe, non-judgmental, and collaborative space to reach your goals and foster resilience. Building a connection and rapport is at the forefront. I will work to understand your life experiences, beliefs, preferences, strengths and challenges, so that we can work as a team to tackle the obstacles. I value your opinion in the process, and I am flexible to apply adaptations if needed. I utilise an evidence-based approach, centering on Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) to provide a space for clients to explore and understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. I also emphasise a holistic approach, in that we will consider other factors such as your sleep, diet, and exercise, to improve your overall well-being. Therapy will be tailored to the developmental stage. When working with children, I will work with their parents and teachers to promote a comprehensive approach. I will integrate their interests and strengths into the therapeutic process to create excitement and fulfilment. When working with adolescents I strive to provide a sense of agency as their desire for independence grows, whilst still working with their parents to promote support and safety. With adults, we will collaboratively develop a space to navigate the presenting difficulties and challenges. Bella's Qualifications & Experience Bella is a Provisional Psychologist who has completed her Masters in Professional Psychology at the University of Newcastle in 2023. Prior to this, Bella completed a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) at Macquarie University. Bella has experience in working with children with diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, as well as common comorbidities to these disorders such as anxiety, depression, suicidality, obsessive-compulsive disorder, intellectual disabilities, and behavioural difficulties. Bella has also gained experience in working in the field of trauma. Working in the out-of-home care sector, she has developed knowledge and skills to provide evidence-based interventions for trauma-affected clients. LOCATION Bella is at READ Clinic West Gosford only.
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Brendan Tisdell

Psychologist

Therapy with Brendan I believe that therapy is about empowering individuals and families to be authentically and passionately themselves. When working with me, you can expect an empathetic therapist that listens and works with you to understand your challenges, and that works collaboratively to find pathways to growth, healing, and empowerment. Respect, curiosity, and a natural drive to celebrate individuality and diversity lie at the heart of my work. When working with me, you can expect a practitioner that values use of evidence-based best practices in psychology whilst also remaining grounded in understanding your unique strengths, differences, and circumstances. I have a profound appreciation for knowledge and the scientific method in clinical practice, and remain committed to my professional growth and learning. When working with me you can expect a psychologist that strives to understand and communicate what the research says about ‘what’ works, ‘how’ it works, and ‘why’ it works. Brendan's Qualifications & Experience Brendan is a Registered Psychologist and Clinical Psychology Registrar with several years experience in psychological practice. He completed the Master of Clinical Psychology Program at Macquarie University in 2022 and has formal training in cognitive behavioural therapy, EMDR, and psychological assessment. Brendan is experienced in facilitating interventions and providing support to clients with a diverse range of needs, including designing and implementing interventions for clients utilising NDIS funding, and applying Cognitive Behavioural strategies to assist clients with anxiety and mood disorders. Brendan has worked at the READ clinic since 2021, and has experience in working with children, teenagers, and adults in private practice and public health settings. Prior to working at the READ clinic, Brendan completed psychology placements with the OSCA team at Royal North Shore Hospital and at Macquarie University’s Psychology Clinic. Before studying postgraduate psychology, Brendan worked as a disability support worker, providing support in designing behavioural and environmental interventions for clients with a diverse range of mental and physical needs. Brendan is a competent scientist-practitioner with research interests in clinical practice, identity, diversity, and interpersonal relationships. He has a passion for science communication and has taught into undergraduate psychology courses at Macquarie University. His masters research project explored how psychologists respond to and provide support to clients engaged in non-traditional romantic relationships.
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Doug Angus

Psychologist

Doug began his professional life as a teacher prior to completing further university training to become a psychologist, gaining full registration in 2016. He is currently completing his Masters degree in Clinical Psychology at Charles Sturt University. Doug is an Associate Member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS). Doug has previously worked as a School Counsellor/School Psychologist in government and independent schools in Sydney, the Central Coast and remote communities in far west NSW. Doug utilises a range of evidence based interventions including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Motivational Interviewing. Doug is passionate about working with clients to achieve their goals. He understands the importance of strong therapeutic alliance in his work and prides himself on committing great energy and enthusiasm toward building relationships with his clients.
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Dr Jacqueline Larkin

Psychologist

Therapy with Jacqueline I have a passion to help individuals to flourish and create meaningful and sustainable outcomes. I work with our adult population treating a variety of psychological presentations, particularly with individuals experiencing change including life and/or career transitions, and workplace issues such as potential burnout, vicarious trauma, and navigating uncertainty. I am deeply committed to partnering with individuals using an integrated and practical approach that is compassionate, highly supportive, and tailored to their specific needs. I value that a therapeutic relationship built on trust, mutual respect and a sense of hope is the starting point of any meaningful work with my clients. I am a strong advocate for advancing health and well-being through the principles of lifestyle medicine, drawing from current evidenced-based practices in conjunction with the broad frameworks of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness, Solution-Focused Therapy and Positive Psychology. I have a special interest in how sleep impacts overall health, and I am a certified Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBTi) practitioner. Jacqueline’s Qualifications & Experience Jacqueline is a highly skilled, strength-based, and solutions-oriented senior psychologist & SIRA approved psychologist, with a strong reputation to inspire and empower individuals to discover their strengths, unearth their potential, and thrive. She has worked extensively in a range of public, private and not-for-profit organisations, and with individuals from diverse occupational, educational and cultural backgrounds. Jacqueline holds a PhD, a Master of Applied Psychology, and a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology and Education) from Macquarie University, and a Graduate Certificate in Financial Planning from KAPLAN Higher Education. She values the importance of continuous learning to stay updated with the latest research and best practices and, to enhance the quality of care she provides to her clients. She is currently studying with the Australasian Society of Lifestyle Medicine (ASLM) to be an accredited lifestyle medicine practitioner. Jacqueline’s on-going research is positive ageing and older workers. She has published in a number of academic journals and books, and has presented her research at national and international conferences. She has been an invited panel speaker for Diversity Council Australia. Jacqueline is a member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS), a member of the Australasian Society of Lifestyle Medicine (ASLM) and a member of the Institute of Community Directors Australia (ICDA). Registered practitioners at The READ Clinic are independent practitioners who engage The READ Clinic to provide administrative support. All decisions regarding client treatment and care are the responsibility of the individual practitioners. LOCATION Jacqueline is available at READ Clinic West Gosford only.
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Dr Nathan Beehag

Psychologist

I seek to help people understand and integrate their story, and develop more self-compassion for self and others. My approach is to help people to firstly be in the best biological shape. We will work on breathing techniques, sleep, exercise, diet and understand any medical conditions. Once you start to improve biologically, we will explore your story further. We will understand your recent stress and traumas, and any childhood trauma, as these experiences often shape how we see ourselves and see the world. My main approach is to use EMDR and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to process your negative life experiences and/or past trauma. This approach will help integrate and process old thinking patterns that were probably helpful at some stage of your life. We will link some of these thinking patterns with your somatic/physiological sensations and emotions that are preventing you from moving forward with your life. I am passionate about treating people who have experienced trauma, particularly those who have experienced trauma during adulthood and childhood, including trauma that occurs within relationships. Nathan’s Qualifications & Experience Nathan is one of the Directors of the READ Clinic, Seniour Clinical Psychologist and PhD Candidate. He completed a Bachelor of Psychology and Honors Degree at University of Newcastle, and on exchange at Clemson University (USA) in 2009. He has since completed an Applied Behaviour Analyst post graduate degree with Florida Institute of Technology in 2011. Completed his Masters in Psychology (Clinical) in 2016 at Charles Sturt University and in his final phase of his PhD at Charles Sturt University. Nathan’s PhD is focused on developing a psychometric scale to support the implementation of trauma informed care practices in child welfare. Nathan has over 13-years of experience in clinical settings using evidence based treatments with children, adolescents and adults experiencing mild to severe psychological difficulties. He established and managed a NSW state-wide clinical team in the disability and child welfare sector. Nathan has been a casual psychology lecturer at Avondale University since 2017 and a Director of the READ Clinic since 2018. Nathan is a member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS), APS College of Clinical Psychologists and APS approved supervisor of clinical psychologists and clinical psychologist registrars. He is a member of Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing Association of Australia (EMDRAA). Nathan is a provider of psychological treatment under: Medicare, EAP, NDIS and private clients.
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Dr Thomas Janovsky

Psychologist

I believe psychologists are your teammates who can assist you in overcoming challenges by providing insight and options based on what we know from scientific research. My approach to therapy is a collaborative one where we work together as a team to develop a theory of what is going on and then test that theory through intervention. I also believe that good outcomes in psychology come from a thorough assessment and understanding of the issue you are seeking to resolve. While this can mean things take a little longer to get started, I believe that in the long run this saves time, money and disappointment. Where children are concerned I prefer a family based approach. Children do not operate or function without the help of their family, school and community. The research also generally suggests that interventions with family involvement have the best outcomes. As a result, when I work with children I also work with parents and teachers. Thomas’s Qualifications & Experience Thomas is a registered psychologist with over 5 years experience. He completed his Bachelor of Psychology with first class honours in 2015 at Macquarie University and completed his combined Master of Clinical Psychology and Doctor of Philosophy with the University of New England in 2023. Thomas uses evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive-Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) skills training and family-based interventions. Thomas is also a published researcher and Member of the Australian Psychology Society (MAPS) and is part of the college of clinical psychologists. Thomas also assists with teaching a range of undergraduate and postgraduate psychology units.
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Emma Diamond

Psychologist

Therapy with Emma I believe that the foundation of successful treatment lies in the relationship between therapist and client. With compassion, empathy, and a sense of humour, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for my clients. My approach is informed by my background in developmental psychology and is mindful of the various systems, families, cultures, as well as internal and external influences that may contribute to present-day challenges. I take a holistic approach, viewing each client as a unique individual with a whole-of-life perspective. Through a collaborative process, I work closely with clients to navigate their therapeutic journey. We will set achievable goals and develop personalised treatment plans, drawing on a range of evidence-based techniques to address each client’s distinct needs. Techniques include attachment-informed modalities such as Internal Family Systems (IFS), Structural Dissociation or "parts work", and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), along with Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness techniques. Together, we work towards achieving lasting and meaningful change. Emma's Qualifications & Experience Emma graduated from the University of Newcastle in 2014 with Bachelor of Psychology (Honours, First Class) and was awarded the Faculty of Science and Information Technology Medal for exceptional academic achievements. She completed her registration program across private clinics working with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of presentations including the assessment and treatment of developmental and learning disorders, working with neurodivergent populations, substance use, and survivors of trauma across the lifespan. Since obtaining her full registration in 2018, Emma has focused her studies on understanding and supporting adults with a history of adverse life events and trauma. Emma is a member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS) and the EMDR Association of Australia (EMRAA). Registered practitioners at The READ Clinic are independent practitioners who engage The READ Clinic to provide administrative support. All decisions regarding client treatment and care are the responsibility of the individual practitioners. LOCATION Emma is available at READ Clinic Erina and READ Clinic West Gosford.
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Fiona O'Connor

Psychologist

Therapy with Fiona I have a deep interest in understanding and helping clients manage a range of presenting mental health symptoms and concerns. I emphasise a collaborative approach with my clients, using evidence-based practice to support them with a unique, personalised approach. I prioritise creating a safe and inviting space for my clients and greatly value the therapeutic relationship. People have unique insight into themselves, which is vital to explore in client-centred work. I am a warm, open-minded, and empathetic individual who values individuality and seeks therapeutic interventions that will work for each person's unique needs. This emphasis on individuality means I take a thorough approach to case formulation to ensure that any interventions implemented feel relevant and achievable. I take a strengths-based approach to therapy and believe that in seeking help, a client has taken the first and often most difficult step, and already shown great courage. I work with children (8 and above), adolescents, and adults across the lifespan, with a focus on anxiety and depression using Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and Dialectal Behaviour Therapy. I am also interested in drug and alcohol addiction, behavioural addictions, and eating disorders. Fiona's Qualifications & Experience Fiona is a provisional psychologist currently completing her Master of Psychological Practice at Charles Sturt University. Fiona holds a Post-graduate Diploma in Psychology. Throughout her studies, Fiona has worked as a Youth Worker in the out-of-home care sector and as a Disability Support Worker. Her work with young people has given her experience in working with children and adolescents facing significant challenges. As a Disability Support Worker, Fiona has worked with several clients with psychosocial disabilities. Both roles had a trauma-informed approach, emphasising that behavioural and emotional challenges often represent underlying unmet needs and should be approached with curiosity and compassion. Psychological research is one of Fiona's passions, and she is currently working on a systematic review that examines the relationship between financial literacy and gambling behaviour.
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Fiona Wood

Counsellor

Therapy with Fiona I enjoy working with couples to facilitate a deeper understanding, connection and appreciation for each other. This may include processing past hurts, learning new communication styles, discussing important topics, sharing emotions and needs, envisioning the future and strengthening the ongoing connection. I use Gottman Method Couples Therapy which is a structured approach based on hundreds of empirical studies with over 3,000 couples, over the span of 40 years. It offers a clear process for formulating couple strengths and goals, healing the past, becoming present and more open with each other, and re-invigorating a relationship. It is a very hands-on approach where the couple dialogue directly with each other with myself guiding the process and language used. I am comfortable working with a variety of relationship issues including but not limited to: improving communication; managing conflict including differing opinions; navigating life transitions; recovery from infidelity; recovery from past impact of addiction; and improving closeness and intimacy. Sessions are 90 minutes in length. Initially these are weekly, and they become less frequent as improvements are made. It is recommended to have between 10 and 24 hours of therapy. Progress is reviewed regularly to ensure the therapy is on track and aligned with the couple’s goals. Fiona's Qualifications & Experience Fiona is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA). She completed a Graduate Diploma in Counselling from the University of Canberra in 2013. Since then, she has worked in private practice and not-for-profit organisations with adults, children, teenagers, families and couples. Fiona first started working with couples in 2015, and found this quickly became an area of interest. She is Level 3 trained in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, and utilises this framework in her couples work.

Georgiana Sullivan

Psychologist

Therapy with Georgiana I am passionate about helping people to flourish across their lifespan and to make a genuine difference in people's lives. I specialise in children, adolescents and adults who present with a range of diagnoses including anxiety and depression. I have a particular interest in child development and secure attachment, and in later life mental health and brain fitness. I adopt an integrated approach to best fit the unique needs of my clients. I have experience in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotion Focused Therapy (Attachment & Schema) and Solution Focused Brief Therapy (conflict resolution and problem solving). I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults, and I look forward to working with you. Georgiana's Qualifications & Experience Georgiana is a Provisional Psychologist who is undertaking her internship at The READ Clinic. Georgiana has 9+ years’ experience working therapeutically with people across the lifespan and with various complex needs, and over 20 years’ experience working with people from culturally diverse backgrounds. Georgiana completed her Master of Psychology at La Trobe University (2023), her Graduate Diploma in Psychology at the University of New England (2019), and her psychology honours at Monash University (2021). Georgiana also has a Master in Health Law at the University of Sydney (2021) and has been a member of an ethics committee at a Private Hospital in NSW (since 2022). Additionally, Georgiana has a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Nursing and spent 9+years working in the public health sector as a registered nurse and a support person in disability services. Georgiana has spent the last 20 years working in diplomacy. Her experiences living and working overseas as an Australian diplomat has given her a respect and appreciation of the uniqueness of people from diverse cultural, social, and abilities backgrounds. Georgiana has an open worldview and an accepting and non-judgemental nature. Georgiana has a passion for supporting the development of young people and from 2016-2020 volunteered as a team member and support parent with Pathfinders, an international uniformed organisation for children aged 10 to 15 years that supports holistic development and growth through physical challenges (swimming, canoeing, hiking), engagement with nature (camping and nature and conservation), skills development and expertise (cooking, drama, art) and peer-supported social development (socially-oriented and leadership development environment). LOCATION Georgiana is at READ Clinic West Gosford only.
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Heather Irvine-Rundle

Psychologist

I believe that where there is life there is hope, and that no matter where a person is when we start working together that through highs and lows, and sometimes sheer grit and determination, we will be somewhere better by the time we have finished working together. Therapy with me, I hope, is like nature. At times it will be intense, at other times full of learning and discovery, and at other times gentle and nurturing. Although I draw from a range of modalities such as CBT and EMDR, the underpinnings of all my work is within an attachment framework, meaning that at the core of all that I do will be healthy and attuned relationships – with others and within self. Heather’s Qualifications & Experience Heather is a Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years experience. She has worked in the UK in some of the most socio-economically deprived areas of Liverpool and London. She also led a service providing advice and consultation on mental health issues to all the schools in the South London area. Heather became a director of the the Clinic in 2005 where she has continued her work with families and adults, particularly mothers with postnatal depression and women with trauma histories. In 2018 she released her book for mothers: “Hello Baby” to much acclaim in the postnatal profession. In 2019, Heather was appointed as Adjunct Professor of Practice in the School of Psychology at the University of Newcastle for her work developing the next generation of psychologists in the form of students, interns and registrars. She is also a much sought after professional speaker for conferences, radio interviews and running workshops and groups.
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Melissa Kostrin

Psychologist

Therapy with Melissa I am a registered psychologist with extensive experience working with young people for both assessment and intervention of a variety of presentations including, but not limited to, learning difficulties, behavioural and developmental concerns, anxiety and depressive symptoms. I am passionate about creating a safe and affirming therapeutic environment that is person-centered and collaborative. I work within the therapeutic frameworks of ACT, DBT and CBT to support clients to reach their therapeutic goals. Melissa's Qualifications & Experience Melissa is a registered psychologist with 5 years' experience working with children, adolescents and their families in an educational setting. Melissa has extensive experience completing developmental and educational assessments for a range of presentations including, but not limited to, specific learning disabilities. She has completed training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. Registered practitioners at The READ Clinic are independent practitioners who engage The READ Clinic to provide administrative support. All decisions regarding client treatment and care are the responsibility of the individual practitioners. LOCATION Melissa is at READ Clinic Erina only.
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Narissa Fry

Psychologist

Therapy with Narissa I believe in an empathetic and collaborative approach to therapy where I will work as your teammate to support you in achieving your goals. I want clients to feel empowered and therefore believe it is vital for those I work with to understand the nature and science behind the mental health issue they present with so that any evidence based treatment we implement will have you understanding the ins and outs of how and why it works. This remains the same whether you’re 6, 16 or 60 or presenting individually or with a support team (e.g. parents and family). If you work with me you can expect to work with someone who has a passion for all things mental health, and someone who takes an energetic, enthusiastic, and empathetic approach. I like to work with all ages across the lifespan, particularly children, adolescents and young adults. Whilst I work with a variety of mental health disorders, I am extremely experienced and passionate about all things anxiety, ADHD, OCD, ASD, and with emotional and behavioural dysregulation (including defiance and school refusal). Narissa’s qualifications and experience Narissa is a registered psychologist with over 5 years clinical experience. She completed her Bachelor of Psychology in 2017 and her Masters of Professional Psychology in 2019 at the University of Newcastle. Prior to completing her Masters degree, Narissa worked as a disability support worker, providing support in designing behavioural and environmental interventions for clients with a diverse range of mental health and physical needs. Narissa uses evidence based treatments and has formal training in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention, EMDR, integrated family systems, family based interventions, and psychological and cognitive assessment.
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Natalie King

Psychologist

I seek to support couples to heal the hurts between them and together forge a calmer, stronger and more connected relationship. I utilise Gottman Method Couples Therapy in my work with couples. This is a therapy approach built upon over 40 years worth of research on romantic relationships and is one of the strongest evidence based approaches available for relationship therapy. My goal when working with couples is to help them repair the current issues in their relationship and also learn the skills and strategies required to maintain these positive changes over time. By changing both the way they manage conflict and the way they nurture their relationship couples can create a ‘new normal’ which is stronger, more connected and more fun than their relationship has ever been. All relationship issues can be addressed using the Gottman Method including but not limited to recovering from infidelity; managing conflict; improving communication; parenting successfully together; and improving passion, intimacy and sex. I offer an intensive relationship therapy program commencing with 90 minute, individually tailored weekly sessions and transitioning to less frequent sessions once initial progress has been made. Please note Natalie does not accept online appointment bookings – for further information please contact our administration team on (02) 4363 6600 or by email support@thereadclinic.com. Natalie’s Qualifications & Experience Natalie King is a Clinical Psychologist with over twenty two years’ experience in providing psychological assessment and therapy services to clients of all ages. She completed her Bachelor of Arts degree at the University of Sydney and her Masters of Clinical Psychology degree at the University of New South Wales. She commenced working in the public health system, first at Mandala Psychiatric Clinic and then in Child and Family Health. She commenced working in private practice in 2003 and joined the READ Clinic team in 2014. She discovered her passion for relationship therapy approximately ten years ago and now works exclusively with couples. Her couples work is informed by extensive training in The Gottman Method as well as her 20+ years therapy experience working with individual adults, children and families throughout her career to date.

Prof Ashley Craig

Psychologist

Therapy with Dr Ashley Craig I help individuals to grow through their life challenges and injuries with the aim of strengthening their adjustment and resilience. I use a range of psychological therapies to assist my clients to grow and deal with the stresses and strains of life. I specialise in psychological distress associated with traumatic and non traumatic injuries such as head injury, spinal cord injuries, whiplash and back injuries. I also treat associated problems such as depression, post traumatic stress, fatigue and pain. My style is to work with the person to achieve their goals from therapy. Dr Ashley Craig’s Qualifications & Experience I am the Professor of Rehabilitation Studies, in Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, and in the Kolling Institute, Royal North Shore Hospital. I am a senior clinical psychologist in the READ Clinic, Erina. I have a BSc (Hons) in Psychology from UNSW, a PhD in the School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW, and I am a Fellow in the College of Clinical Psychology, Australian Psychological Society. I also have an Honorary Doctorate (Honoris Causa) presented in May of 2002 by the Faculty of Public Health and Sports, South Western University, Bulgaria, in recognition of my work in neurological disorder. I have been an active researcher for at least 30 years. I have won over $30 million in competitive funding. I am currently conducting a number of projects funded by the Australian and State governments such as issues of cognitive impairment following neurological injury and improving autonomic nervous system balance using resonant breathing and heart rate variability feedback. As a Professor I have published well over 300 scientific and psychology papers in international science and medical journals. I have also published over 10 books and book chapters. Recent examples include: Pozzato, I., Kifley, A., Craig, A., et al., (2022). Effects of seeking compensation on the psychological health and recovery of injured patients: the role of stress vulnerability and injury related disability. Psychological Medicine, 52, 68-79. 154. Craig, A., et al., (2017). Pain catastrophizing and negative mood states following spinal cord injury: transitioning from inpatient rehabilitation into the community. The Journal of Pain, 18, 800-810. Craig, A. (2022). Resilience in people with physical disabilities (Ch.4). In M. Meade, K. Bechtold & S. Wegener (Eds.). Oxford Handbook of Rehabilitation Psychology. I have been a practising clinical psychologist for at least 30 years and have been working in the READ Clinic since 2007.

Samuel Hunter

Psychologist

Samuel graduated from the Macquarie University with a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours, first class) in 2015. He worked within the community mental health setting for 12 months before completing his Masters of Clinical Psychology in 2017. He began his Clinical Psychology Registrar program in 2018, which was completed in early 2020. Samuel believes the relationship between the therapist and client is vital for positive treatment outcomes – he focuses on establishing a relaxed, genuine atmosphere that works towards accomplishing the client’s goals and implementing effective change. Predominantly trained in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), he uses various other approaches in treatment, including Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Eye-Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR) and Motivational Interviewing. Samuel is a Member of the Australian Psychological Society, and has experience working in hospital and community settings, as well as private practice. He has also completed research in the areas of anger, mindfulness, and male body image. Samuel’s areas of interest for children and adults are: Anxiety Depression Anger and aggression Self-esteem Stress management Behavioural difficulties Interpersonal difficulties
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Sian Donaldson

Psychologist

Therapy with Sian I am passionate about supporting people to build a confident and trusting relationship with themselves by developing deeper connections to their mind, body, and spirit. It takes courage to look inward and approach yourself with compassion and acceptance, but this is where the healing journey begins and ends, with a deeper understanding of yourself. I will work collaboratively with you in order to tailor therapy to your specific goals and needs. No goal is too great, we will work together by looking at the small steps you can take that will add up to lasting change and empowerment. I acknowledge that therapy can be scary and challenging, but working together lightens the load. Sian’s Qualifications & Experience Sian is a Provisional Psychologist who completed a Masters in Professional Psychology in 2022. For the past five years, Sian has worked in multiple roles supporting children, adolescents and adults along their journey to improved mental health. Sian has worked as a support worker for young adults, assisting with practical support to manage daily stressors and build confidence and resilience. Following this, she worked as a Mental Health Facilitator and Drug and Alcohol Consultant. In this role, she coordinated support groups for people living with severe and complex mental health and delivered Cognitive Behavioural Therapy to individuals seeking recovery from addiction. Sian’s most recent role was in Child Protection supporting vulnerable children and families by conducting thorough safety assessments with kindness and non-judgment and connecting families and children with the right supports.
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Simon Connor

Nurse

My general style is one of a person-centred and individualised approach to care. I provide trauma informed care and I am particularly interested in Acute Stress Disorder and PTSD as a diagnostic group. I provide EMDR as a treatment approach for these diagnosis and other incidence of trauma as appropriate. Simon’s Qualifications & Experience Simon is a UK trained Credentialed Mental Health Nurse with over 30 years experience. He is credentialed with The Australian College of Mental Health Nurses and has Diploma of Higher Education in Professional Practice (Mental Health). He also holds registration with APRAH as a Division 1 Registered Nurse (Mental Health) and has a further Diploma in Care of Mentally Disordered Offenders. Simon has worked in numerous mental health fields and was previously responsible for creating and running the private mental health hospital services on the Central Coast.
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