“I define connection as the energy that exists between people when they feel seen, heard, and valued; when they can give and receive without judgment; and when they derive sustenance and strength from the relationship.”

Often referred to as 'talking therapy', psychological therapy involves exploration and discussion between therapist and client, to understand how past experiences, current difficulties or concerns about the future might be affecting your life. During therapy a psychologist will listen to you and help you understand how you respond to life events and reflect upon the ways in which you see yourself and others. Your psychologist will not tell you what to do or give you advice, but will guide and support you to make your own choices and begin the process of change.

Therapy is collaborative and relational, a space for discovering who we are, making sense of life experiences, and developing our ability to see a meaningful future. All treatment is individually planned to your needs. Therapy provided is evidence-based, with an approach aimed to reduce distress and improve daily psychological well being and functioning.  Types of theory and therapy Samantha draws from includes: 

• Interpersonal process
• Interpersonal neurobiology
• Attachement theory
• Polyvagal theory
• Trauma Informed practice
• EMDR Therapy and the adaptive information processing model
• Schema Therapy
• Mindfulness
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
• Sensory Motor / Somatic body based therapies
• Clinical Hypnosis

Samantha specialises in trauma focused therapy and is experienced at working with a wide rage of psychological difficulties including: 

• Trauma, complex PTSD & dissociation 
• Depression & suicidal ideation 
• Anxiety
• Grief &  loss
• Stress & Burnout
• Existential concerns, situational crises and life decisions
• Interpersonal and relational conflict and difficulties
• Addiction

Samantha works at understanding the needs and concerns of each child and teen, in the context of their family, school and social world. Samantha uses a wide range of evidence-based approaches to plan treatment to meet each child’s psychological, emotional, relational, and developmental needs.  Samantha seeks to understand how children have come to think, feel, react, and behave in the way they do.Samantha specialises and is experienced at working with a wide rage of psychological difficulties including:

• Trauma, complex and developmental trauma, dissociation 
• Depression and mood difficulties
• Suicidal ideation & Self Injury
• Anxiety, phobias, panic, separation anxiety, social anxiety, OCD
• Relationship difficulties - family, peers, and bullying. 
• School difficulties and exam stress
• Self esteem and confidence
• Parental separation
• Grief & Loss

All appointments booked for children and adolescents require an initial parent consultation without the child or adolescent in attendance. Children below age 6 will require a caregiver's participation in appointments.  Children above age 6 will require a parent or caregiver to remain on the premise or nearby. Parents may be required to attend sessions with their child and attend review appointments as and when required. 

Samantha can help couples who are struggling with connecting and communicating. Samantha can help couples develop shared goals and values and improve communicating these to each other

Samantha can help all new parents with the adjustment to parenting, birth trauma, post natal depression and anxiety , and parenting through the developmental stages.

Samantha can meet with parents for problem solving sessions to provide support with difficulties and expectations.

Samantha is a Circle of Security facilitator and can deliver this course to individuals and groups.

Samantha is available to offer telehealth appointments for all that are unable to attend in person.Telehealth is a very convenient & private way of receiving mental health support without the need to travel. Psychological treatment provided using videoconferencing technology has been found to be as effective as a face-to-face appointment for a variety of mental health problems.You will need access to:

• a quiet, private space
• a device i.e. smartphone, laptop, iPad, computer, with a camera, microphone and speakers
• a reliable internet connection.