New Parent Counselling

Your someone.health psychologist can work with you to manage becoming a parent through evidence-based video and telephone counselling.
Your someone.health psychologist can work with you to manage becoming a parent through evidence-based video and telephone counselling.
family

Learn about becoming a new parent

Adjusting to life as a parent can be a struggle. Just as no one’s experience is the same, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to parenting and everyone faces different challenges. On top of these challenges as a parent, it is likely you have received conflicting advice on the best method of parenting.

 

It is common for parents to feel overwhelmed with the responsibility of constantly attending to the needs of their child, and ensuring the development of their social, emotional, and academic skills. Consequently, although being a parent may bring you many joys, it can also be extremely challenging emotionally, and consume many aspects of your life you may have enjoyed before having kids. If you are feeling stressed and overwhelmed due to your responsibilities as a parent, you may feel guilt or shame and therefore struggle to express these experiences to friends or family. A psychologist can help you identify, cope with and overcome parenting challenges, so that you can build the best possible relationship with your child.

 

Whether you’re the parent of a newborn, an adopted child, or are looking after a child which is not biologically your own, adjusting to life as a parent can be difficult for a variety of reasons. The time required each day to look after a child often demands the parent to find a balance with work and/or their relationship with a partner, and can put strain on the partner relationship when this balance is not able to be met. Furthermore, when communication between parents begins to break down this can impact the child, and inconsistency between parents can leave the child confused, and wanting to test behavioural boundaries.

 

If you are the parent of a newborn, the perinatal and infant period spans from the beginning of pregnancy up to the time that the baby is about one year old. This is a significant time of adjustment and stress, and emotional health problems may occur for parents. Many women and their partners experience feelings of distress and anxiety in the perinatal period. This is common and often resolves with support from a psychologist. For some people, adjustment will be more difficult and they may notice ongoing changes in mood, sleep, motivation, confidence and appetite. Other signs may include withdrawal from family and friends. Depression can also develop before or after the birth of the baby and if you or your family notice any of these changes it is a good idea to discuss them with a professional.

 

As a parent, you are the most influential person in your child’s life. From infancy, a child needs an attentive, emotionally responsive caregiver for their healthy physical, social and emotional development: a relationship in which the infant feels secure and connected to his/her caregiver promotes later psychological wellbeing.

 

Your someone.health psychologist can provide support to mothers, fathers and children. This support aims to assist parents be more effective in tuning into their own emotions and needs, the needs of their partner, and to understand what their child requires at different stages of development. Our psychologists also assist mothers and fathers to support each other more effectively, create positive connections between themselves and their child.

New Parent Psychologists

Meet the someone.health psychologists currently available to see new clients for new parent counselling. 

Videsha Samarawickrama

I look forward to working with you on this journey through collaboration to understand your goals and work towards developing a plan tailored to achieving these goals. I have a client centered approach to counselling and ensure that focus is on ensuring that any treatment is individualised to suit your needs which is aimed to promote functional, psychological, and social...

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Sasha Truehl

Well done for making it this far! I'd love to work with you to further harness your bravery to go and get whatever you want for your life. This includes relationships, which can be hard, but also so fulfilling. If that's not your current experience, I'd love to work together to figure out attachment styles, or better conflict resolution or...

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Belinda Milner

I love getting to know you as an individual and what makes you tick. I enjoy working in a collaborative and holistic way, incorporating your strengths and values into your therapy journey. My style is conversational, warm and natural with a dash of humour thrown into the mix.

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Christian Van Tonder

Chris' professional interests include personal lifecycle changes & adaptation, stress, burnout & PTSD, self-esteem & identity challenges, relationship & interpersonal issues and scholastic & vocational/career dynamics. Chris has held various professorships and has published books and articles on change, identity, stress and burnout.

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Susanne Gilmour

I am committed to helping my clients discover their unique strengths to overcome the challenges they may face in their life journey. I value everyone of my clients as a special person, working with them to achieve the personal goals they want to develop through counselling.

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Adauto Furlanetti Severino da Silva

Adauto has 14 years of experience in a private practice focusing on anxiety, depression and life changes (work, divorce, sexuality and maturing) with young adults. Adauto believes that each person can benefit from problem solving strategies, but also from finding causes and reasons. Adauto studied Psychology in Brazil and applies CBT, ACT and DBT modalities.

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Rosara Squirchuk

Rosara has a keen interest in working with children, adolescents and adults who are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma including PTSD and adjustment disorder, OCD, bipolar disorder, gambling and other addictive behaviours, alcohol misuse, work/personal stress and domestic violence survivors.

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Nina Shapiro

Nina has a keen interest in working with people experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship and family difficulties, gender identity issues, work stress, low self-esteem, anger issues, survivors of sexual abuse and other childhood trauma. She is trained in several evidence based approaches, including CBT, Cognitive Processing Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.

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Carolina Maleski Penna de Moraes

Carolina offers sessions in English and Portuguese, for adults and adolescents, covering a vast spectrum of psychological conditions including as anxiety, depression, interpersonal difficulties, relationship issues, and parenting-related difficulties. She has over 10 years experience in the academic and professional spheres of Psychology.

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Elise Emhofer

Hi, I am really looking forward to getting to know you and working together to achieve your therapy goals. I believe in a holistic approach to therapy, recognizing that the psychological and physical both impact overall mental well-being and as such my approach to therapy includes elements of each in order to achieve lasting change.

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Darren Pittock

Darren has been helping people from a psychological perspective for over 17 years. He is experienced working with depression, anxiety, PTSD, stress, anger management, loss and grief, as well as intellectual, physical, developmental disabilities. Darren has also experienced life as a wine merchant, martial artist, security officer and as a tradesman.

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Jovana Zonjic

Jovana has a Masters in Organsiational Psychology and is trained in various therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Psychodynamic therapy. Jovana has worked previously in corporate settings, assisting employees, managers and executives to manage various work and life stressors, as well as provide individual coaching. She then transitioned to focus on secondary school aged...

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Sarah Krueger

Sarah uses a person-centred, strength-based approach, working in collaboration with clients to reach their therapeutic goals. Sarah is highly focused on the therapeutic relationship using a calm and relaxed manner, positive communication strategies, empathy, and understanding during therapy sessions.

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Winifred Asare-Doku

Winifred has a keen interest in working with people experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, work-related mental health problems, perfectionism, procrastination, low self esteem and interpersonal difficulties. She focuses on being empathetic and supports clients on their journey. Winifred believes in creating a comfortable and safe environment where you feel you can talk openly about any issue.

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Lakers Komaiya

I am a clinical psychologist with experience working with adolescents and adults. I aim to provide a safe, non-judgemental space where we can collaboratively explore the challenges you are currently facing; identify and work on the goals you want to achieve in therapy.

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Katherine Gudgeon

Katherine has worked with a wide array of presentations, including depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, grief, trauma, anger management, bullying, relationship difficulties and personality disorders. Katherine has worked as a School Counsellor for five years and an English teacher for over thirty years. Katherine is experienced in dealing with adolescent development and parenting issues. She has a keen interest in working...

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Lee-Anne Organ

I believe all humans share the experience of suffering and that it can be helpful to seek out professional help when this suffering becomes overwhelming. I think every person will benefit from different experiences in therapy and that its really important to work with someone who sees you as a person who is unique.

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Jeanine Leabeater

Hi, I am very excited to meet you, get to know you as a person and work together to achieve the change you desire, the life you would like for yourself. I am committed to working with you, the whole person and I will treat you as a real person, not just see your issue. I want you, us, to...

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Lisa Butler

With over 30 years as a psychologist, Lisa has worked with a diverse range of clients and is very interested in working with adults who are having issues with self-confidence and interpersonal communication, depression, stress, anxiety, loss, family conflict, fears, career or work problems, emotional distress, post-natal stress or depression, or relationship difficulties.

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Wendy Devine

Hi! I’m Wendy. I’m a dedicated psychologist who loves working with adult clients wishing to improve their mental health. I have been working in psychology since 2012. I take a client centred approach, and work with a range of evidence-based approaches individually tailored to suit to your preference and needs. I have lived most of my life in remote, rural...

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Racquel Laulita

For over a decade Racquel has worked with adults who have experienced difficulties with emotional regulation, substance use, trauma, stress, depression, anxiety, and antisocial conduct. She has a deep understanding of women specific issues (e.g., domestic violence and parenting concerns) as she has worked predominantly with women.

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Jessie Bendavid

Jessie has expertise with the psychological impact of perinatal loss, the topic of her Ph.D. She has worked with adults experiencing mood disorders, personality disorders, procrastination, anxiety and grief. Jessie offers a supportive, non-judgmental and accepting environment for her clients to feel safe so that they can openly discuss the issues that they would like to change.

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Audrey Fletcher

It is very exciting when people take the first step to being proactive in their mental health and it makes me happy that mental health is becoming a topic we can talk freely about. I am excited to learn more about you and work together on how we can begin to create the life you want for yourself.

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Yaari Caroline Self

I am looking forward to meeting many and varied clients to work with together to bring the very best in your life. My style is relaxed and friendly and I like to focus on the relationship we build together. I have practiced for over 30 years with all range of problems so I welcome all or any struggles in your...

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Julia Mijic

I am passionate about psychology and take an individual approach to psychological services from a broad worldview and framework of practice. I seek to understand your unique experiences and situation. I believe in personal empowerment using a strengths based approach. I consider it a privilege to provide support as you take steps towards your health and wellbeing goals.

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Andrew Pangrazio

I am excited to listen and get to know you as we work together to make sense of, predict or change areas of life. My practice has always been to actively listen, to explore and to experiment using a range of psychology tools. I work using innovative approaches that highlight your strengths whilst also addressing issues or areas that are...

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Kathie McDonald

Kathie enjoys helping a broad range of people aged 16 years and over, and has a keen interest in helping people adjust to various life transitions such as changes in work, relationships, and parenthood. Kathie also has extensive experience in helping women work through issues related to sexual intimacy. Kathie uses evidence-based treatments including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance...

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Agnes Szollos (Agi)

My combined professional and life experiences make me highly aware of the types of difficulties encountered by people from all walks of life and the impact on their and others’ lives these obstacles to wellbeing can have. My efforts and professional skill are dedicated toward helping to make a difference and to assist people in developing their greater potential

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Rosemary Lindsay

Rosemary welcomes clients concerned with personal issues such as anger, stress, anxiety, and depression, self-esteem, phobias, adjustment, behavioural change, eating disorders, smoking cessation, grief and loss, and relationships. She also welcomes clients with workplace issues such as career development, motivation, performance, and interpersonal conflict. Rosemary only provides video consultations.

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Sanja Cajic

Sanja's approach is positive, warm, explorative, and solution-focused. Sanja has worked with adult clients struggling with drug and alcohol addiction, chronic pain, trauma and PTSD, anxiety and depression, stress management, parenting issues, relationship and life transition issues.

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Alicia Viforj

Alicia is a Clinical Psychologist who has extensive experience treating low self worth, child attachment and behaviour management and family of origin issues. This includes the experience feeling different to others growing up, family domestic violence, emotional abuse, being criticised or bullied, having low self worth or other trauma growing up.

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Sarah Conway

As a mother myself, I know how difficult it is to see your child struggling. And I know that bringing them to therapy is such a big step for both of you. So welcome, and congratulations on taking that first step - I am so looking forward to working with you.

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Ellie Meissner

I am very much looking forward to getting to know you. As a psychologist, I am here to offer you a safe and supportive space where you can share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I understand that life can sometimes be challenging, and it takes courage to reach out for help. Please know that I am here to listen to...

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Marie Parperis

Marie works with a diverse range of clients, including children, adolescents and adults. She has extensive experience working with people with disabilities, including intellectual disability and Autism. Marie has a keen interest working with people experiencing anxiety, stress, depression, low self esteem and interpersonal difficulties.

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Jade Munsel

Jade has more than 20 years experience in working with people of all ages, across both private and government settings. She has a special interest in weight management psychology, as well as mood disorders (anxiety and depression), stress management and health psychology.

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Geoffrey Haines

Geoff has over 10 years of experience working as a psychologist and has a keen interest working with people who are experiencing depression, anxiety, procrastination, interpersonal difficulties and low self esteem. Geoff is trained in evidence-based approaches including CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.

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Michiel Gonzales

I have learned that deep and lasting change is possible, that long-term issues can be resolved, and people can be free of emotional pain they carry by making sense of difficult experiences together, both past and present, and moving towards a place of self-understanding. Michiel works with adults and adolescents using an integrative approach which is based on empathy and...

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Beth Cunningham

Hi! So glad you have taken this important step for yourself. I am here to listen and to support you to move forward in your life, to create a more richful, fuller and more meaningful life for yourself and to let go of the struggle which takes up so much of our time, energy and attention. It’s one thing to...

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Caroline Gaffney

Caroline is very approachable and believes that positive change is sustainable, working holistically and using practical strategies, developing new skills and psychological interventions to achieve the best outcomes for you. She has been the principal psychologist and proprietor of Pure Gold Christian Counselling and Psychological Services for eight years.

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Ioanna Culleton

Ioanna has over 30 years of experience working with a diverse range of clients including adolescents, adults and seniors in both rural and urban settings. Ioanna is keen to work with clients who experience anxiety and depression, low self esteem, family and/or relationship conflicts, amongst other areas or simply to be a sounding board.

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Kristie Mitchell

I am excited to be able to support you in meeting your goals and managing challenging circumstances. I am passionate about delivering accessible Psychology sessions by telehealth. I am committed to working with you based on your priorities and values.

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David Pyman

David has had 15 years of experience as a Psychologist working with children, adolescents and adults. He has experience working with educational needs, with a particular focus on life long education, differential diagnosis, understanding giftedness and managing neural diversity. David has also worked extensively with people experiencing anxiety, depression, issues of self worth and attachment concerns.

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Alana Maley-Berg

My passion is helping people, in good times and tough times, and that is my aim when meeting you. I want to get to know you and help you through whatever challenges are facing you. I like to celebrate successes, even the little ones, and work through the next steps towards more success. I see every barrier or bump in...

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Melissa Sykes

Welcome and hello to you, I am looking forward to understanding who you are as an individual. I am hopeful that through our time together we can put in place some steps and strategies to assist you in achieving the outcomes you desire.

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Michelle Opacic

Michelle is a registered psychologist of over 20 years and has pent the last 15 years working in a private practice setting, where she became passionate about working with couples, teenagers, and anxiety disorders. She is trained in Gottman, Emotion Focussed Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy.

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Kristy Johnstone

Deciding to see a Psychologist is a big step, so congratulations for coming this far. Once you choose a therapist, stepping into a their virtual therapy room is the next big step, and for many people this can feel overwhelming. A big part of my job is to help you feel comfortable and safe. All you have to do is...

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Bilyana Riley

Bilyana's 20 years’ experience is vast, having started my career in nursing before embarking on study to become a Clinical Psychologist. She sees people presenting with a broad spectrum of presentations, including trauma, depressive and anxiety based disorders, workplace bullying, phobias, relationship issues, stress disorders, schizophrenia, self-harm, suicidal behaviour, personality disorders, grief and relationship issues.

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Sharilee Williams

She has experience working with children, adolescents, older adults and CALD communities. Sharilee has worked extensively with individuals on the Autism Spectrum and with other developmental disorders. She has experience with Attentional difficulties in both neurological/biofeedback and behavioural approaches. She has also worked extensively with Anxiety and Mood disorders.

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Melissa Boulind

Melissa has extensive experience in working with teen conflicts including peer conflicts, relationships, exam stress and fitting in. In addition to that she has an interest in PTSD and trauma, poor health, covid-related adjustment and loss, HIV and cancer. Melissa can provide support for LBGTQ conflicts including coming out.

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Jenny Drury

Jenny has been a registered Psychologist since 2005. Jenny’s key areas of interest are stress and health management, mood and anxiety disorders, parenting, managing life transitions, executive functioning and neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

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Simon Coyle

Simon is a qualified primary school teacher as well as a registered psychologist. Simon has a keen interest in working with people experiencing anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, post traumatic stress disorder and behaviour and emotional disorders in children. He has a relaxed, easy going nature and likes to provide people with the skills to manage life's challenges.

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Jeraldine Cooper

Jeraldine has significant experience working with people experiencing anxiety and interpersonal difficulties. Jeraldine is trained in evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).

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Jia Yee Ho

First of all, I believe that it takes a great amount of courage to seek help and want to speak to someone. Hence as a practitioner, I do not take this lightly and would want to give every person the best possible opportunity to grow and manage their life challenges. Every individual comes with different life experiences and knowledge and...

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Eloise Gibson

A fully registered Psychologist with over 20 years of experience, I am ready to work with you in a very collaborative, friendly and compassionate manner to find the best way forward for you. I will work closely with you to assist you to develop a wide range of strategies, skills and ideas to allow you to find new ways to...

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Carla Giardina

I’m Carla, a registered psychologist passionate about fostering positive and meaningful change and empowering individuals to navigate life’s challenges. Fascinated by the complexity of human connections, I also enjoy supporting clients in navigating individual and family relationships on their journey towards personal growth. As a psychologist, I strive to foster a welcoming, supportive, and collaborative […]

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Rachel Troia

Hi, my name is Rachel and I'd love to meet and support you. What makes therapy with me different? We will work in the moment. I will meet you where you are at and walk alongside you using my wealth of tools and my deep intuition. You are not a diagnosis or a label to me. You are precious and...

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Chantal Mercanti

I love what I do. I take earning your trust very seriously. I think it’s a big deal to share your thoughts, fears, worries, hopes and dreams in counselling. I work hard to listen well and to understand your experience of the world and how you would like it to be different. I’m a real person and will be clear...

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Courtney Bailey

Courtney is best situated to assist with the following areas: Intimacy issues and relationship dynamics, metabolising challenging life experiences and transitions, self esteem and identity, traumatic experiences, existential concerns, wellbeing and resilience, family and parenting issues, somatic and nervous system regulation, emotional regulation and coping, stress and perfectionism, Highly Sensitive People (HSP), and developing insight and reflective functioning.

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Claire Wood

Claire works with a range of clients across the lifespan, including children, adolescents, adults and the elderly. Claire has a keen interest in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and is listed as an ACT therapist. She is also interested in Neurodliversity with an emphasis on autism and ADHD. Claire uses a trauma informed approach and uses schema and narrative therapy.

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Oriele Diaz

Hola- You can call me Orie! Let's work together and be a team! I enjoy working in collaboration with the people I support. So, you can expect me to listen, propose and discuss information, ideas and strategies that will suit your lifestyle and therapeutic goals.

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Rosa Medina Barron

Rosa strives to help clients to gain greater insight into their lives to understand and overcome their presenting issues, develop their self-confidence and make meaningful changes in their lives. Rosa provides psychological services in both English and Spanish.

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Emine Brandstaetter

You can not change the waves but you can learn to surf them. I really like that saying because it emphasizes that although you might not be able to control certain situations, you can still control your reaction and response to it. You might be surprised how small changes in our behaviours or our perspectives can have a great impact...

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