Alicia Merlino (She/her)Psychologist

clinic location

Info

Websitewww.birchtreecentre.com.au
Birchtree Centre 58 Parramatta Road, Forest Lodge, New South Wales, 2037
Map for 58 Parramatta Road, Forest Lodge, New South Wales, 2037

Overview

As a psychologist registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), I have experience providing psychological support across a range of settings, including government, not for profit organisations, primary and secondary education, and private practice. I work with adolescents and adults, and have a particular interest in supporting adolescents and young adults. I support people experiencing a range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, attachment and relational difficulties, personality vulnerabilities, school or study related stress, work stress, self esteem concerns, and relationship challenges. I also work with individuals who may not have a diagnosed mental health condition but are seeking support, clarity, or personal growth in certain areas of life. I recognise that taking the first step to seek therapy can feel daunting. My approach is calm, gentle, and empowering, with a strong focus on creating a safe, compassionate, and non judgemental therapeutic space. I believe the therapeutic relationship is central to meaningful change, and I prioritise collaboration, respect, and care in all therapeutic work. In my practice, I draw on current research and evidence based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Schema Therapy, and strengths based approaches. I take a holistic and client centred approach, working alongside individuals to help them better understand themselves, develop their strengths, and move towards a more satisfying and meaningful life.

Qualifications and Experience

Education

  • BA (Psych), PGDipPsych, MChildAdolMH, MForenMH

Specialisation and Services

Area of Focus

  • Abuse
  • Academic Performance
  • Adolescents
  • Anxiety
  • Child Psychology
  • Depression
  • General Psychology
  • Grief and Loss
  • Burnout
  • Critical Incident Stress Debriefing
  • General Counselling
  • Life Transition and Adjustment Issues
  • Panic Attacks
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Relationships
  • School Issues
  • Self-Esteem and Self-Development
  • Trauma
  • Work Related Issues

Modalities

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
  • Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy
  • Mindfulness
  • Positive Psychology
  • Schema Therapy
  • Solution-Focused Therapy

Patient Focus

  • Teenagers
  • Adults
  • Women
  • Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander
  • Non-Binary People
  • LGBTIQ
  • Men
  • Culturally and linguistically diverse communities

Languages Spoken

  • English

Services

  • Online consultations