Approach — Sanctum Integrative Psychology

Whether your difficulty is anxiety, depression, trauma, or loss of meaning and direction in life, I absolutely believe that it is possible to heal, find new inner strength, and craft a more authentic life from the challenges that can be experienced by anyone, at any time in their life.

The Sanctum Approach

My therapeutic orientation is informed by both contemporary psychological research and an appreciation for the complexity of human development and experience.

While my primary framework is Schema Therapy, I integrate mindfulness, compassion-focused, and somatic-informed approaches to support trauma recovery and emotional growth in a way that honours each person’s pace and readiness.

I view my work not only as a means of alleviating distress, but as a process of developing insight, flexibility, and the capacity to live with authenticity and resilience through life’s complexities.

Booking Enquiry

My approach to integrative psychology draws on a range of evidence-based and depth-informed approaches to support reflection, insight, and new possibilities for responding to life’s challenges. The therapeutic process is collaborative, paced, and guided by your goals and preferences.

Schema Therapy (ISST Advanced Certified)

Supporting the exploration of longstanding emotional and relational patterns, and how they may be influencing your present experiences and behaviours.
Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Developing flexibility in how you relate to thoughts, emotions, and internal experiences, with an emphasis on values-aligned living.
Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)

Cultivating a kinder and more supportive inner stance, particularly where self-criticism or shame feels familiar.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Working with the interaction between thoughts, feelings, and behaviour to develop practical skills for responding to challenges.

A note on fit

Sanctum is a specialised private practice for individual adults. Sanctum does not offer couples therapy, child or adolescent psychology, bulk billing, or WorkCover and DVA funding.

I work with adults who are ready to engage in longer-term, depth-oriented work – typically those who have some prior experience of therapy or self-inquiry, and who are seeking more than symptom management.

If you're uncertain whether this is the right fit, a consultation is a good place to find out – there's no obligation, and it's a chance for both of us to sense whether working together may be the right choice for you.

FAQ

It’s common to feel uncertain before beginning therapy. The first session is a conversation about what has been happening for you and what feels important to understand or explore. We may discuss your background, current concerns and psychological symptoms and what you hope to gain from therapy. This also offers an opportunity for you to get a sense of the therapeutic process and whether this approach feels like a good fit for you.
A session (46 to 60 minutes; sessions are usually 50 minutes) costs $255.25 (the APS recommended fee schedule is currently set at $311). If you have a referral from your GP under the Medicare Better Access Scheme (also known as a Mental Health Care Plan), then you will receive a rebate of $145.25. This means there is an out-of-pocket gap of $110 per session. You can access up to 10 Medicare Better Access sessions per calendar year.
Yes. If you have a current Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP, Medicare rebates are available for sessions with a Clinical Psychologist. You are also welcome to attend privately without a referral, if you prefer.
Rebate and fee information will be outlined clearly prior to your first appointment.
No, you can see me privately if you prefer. This means, however, that you will not receive a rebate for your session and will need to pay the full fee yourself. If you do wish to attend therapy under a Mental Health Care Plan, it is a relatively simple process – phone and make a longer (double) session with your GP – you can let the medical practice reception know you are seeking a psychology referral. The GP will ask you some questions about how you are feeling, and you can request that your referral be directed to a particular psychologist.
The length of therapy varies. It depends on what you would like to work through, your goals, and the pace that feels right for you. Some individuals prefer shorter-term support, while others choose longer-term work to explore more complex or longstanding patterns. This is something that we will discuss together early in the therapy process. As a Schema Therapist, I often support clients over a longer period of time.
Yes. While many people find in-person sessions helpful—especially at the beginning—telehealth is also available if this is more suitable for your circumstances. If we are considering telehealth as the primary way of working together, we will discuss this collaboratively to ensure it aligns with your needs. All telehealth sessions are held through a secure, private online platform.
Sometimes, ‘life happens’, and you are very welcome to cancel or reschedule your appointment. However, you do need to provide at least 24 business hours’ notice. If you cancel or reschedule your appointment within this time – regardless of the reason – then you will be charged a $110 cancellation fee, which you will need to pay yourself (i.e., there is no rebate on cancellation fees).