Who We Are

BA, GDipLib, GDipPsychStudies, GDipPsych, MPsych(Counselling), DipClinHyp, MAPS

Karen has worked with many people of different ages and cultural backgrounds, helping them manage difficulties with mood, anxiety, relationships, and adjustment to challenging life events. Her work has been conducted in a variety of therapeutic settings, including the community agency Doncare, PANDA (Post and Ante Natal Depression Association), and Relationships Australia, as well as in her own private practice. She has experience with a wide range of clinical issues, but has a particular interest in anxiety, depression (including post-natal depression) and recovery from family violence. She has seen how, with a little support at the right time, people can make inspirational changes.

Karen uses evidence-based therapeutic approaches, such as Interpersonal Therapy, in her work with individuals and couples. In her experience, these approaches help clients to both resolve issues and develop personal strengths. While working with some clients, Karen may also call upon her training and experience as a hypnotherapist. Hypnotherapy does not yet have the research backing to allow it to be recognised as an evidence-based approach, but it has been an accepted part of psychology and psychiatry for decades, and has been shown to be an effective adjunct to psychotherapy (for further information, see What we do). Karen uses hypnotherapy not only for its effectiveness, but also for the fun and creativity it can bring to psychotherapy. Karen is well aware that each client is a unique individual, and, with the client’s consent, aims to suit the therapy to the client.

Karen is a member of the Australian Psychological Society, and the Australian Association of Psychologists Inc.

BBSc, PGDipPsych, DPsych (Clinical), MAPS

For more than ten years, Marianne has worked with clients of all ages in a variety of workplaces, including psychiatric settings, private practice, and community organisations.

Marianne emphasises the importance of building rapport to provide a safe and respectful place for clients. She understands that many clients will not have seen a psychologist before, and that they may find it difficult initially to speak about deeply personal issues. She is aware that, for some clients, therapy is their first opportunity to uncover their true thoughts and feelings. It is very important to her that each of her clients feels heard and valued.

Marianne has a particular passion for working with children and young people. This kind of work can be challenging, as it is often difficult for children to talk openly about painful issues. Marianne uses all kinds of inventive ways to engage her clients, and encourage them to tell her about their troubles. She knows many games with which to help children feel at ease, and is experienced in encouraging her young clients to tell her their story. Once Marianne understands the problem, she designs interventions and solutions based on scientific evidence. She then works with the children, as well as with parents and teachers, to implement the solutions. She has shared the joy of parents who have seen their children regain self-confidence and a sense of fun as a result of timely therapeutic interventions.

Marianne very much enjoys working with children and young people who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety. She is aware of how this common affliction can have huge negative effects on many aspects of life. Marianne thrives on helping her clients achieve new perspectives, and a future that is no longer limited by anxiety.

In her approach to therapy, Marianne considers the individual needs of clients, while drawing on her knowledge and experience of evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, Positive Psychology and Mindfulness-based strategies. Above all, Marianne aims to assist clients to harness their own personal strengths and abilities.

Marianne has a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and is a member of the Australian Psychological Society.