The Break Psychology


The Break Psychology

Practitioners at this location

Miss Manuela Schmitten

Psychologist

With a Masters of Science in Psychology from Germany and extensive training in Germany and Australia, I bring a unique perspective and depth of knowledge to my psychology sessions. My experience working with diverse client groups across a range of mental health services has equipped me with the skills to provide compassionate and effective therapy, especially in challenging situations. I am dedicated to ensuring a supportive base is present for you and do this through open communication, collaboration, and fostering a sense of belonging. My background in research and evidence-based treatment, coupled with my client-centered approach, ensures that your needs and goals will be addressed collaboratively using evidenced-based treatment approaches that are tailored specifically for you to ensure they are effective. I enjoy working with a variety of clients from adolescents to retirees, with an interest in a broad spectrum of difficulties including anxiety, low mood, trauma, stress, relationship issues, substance abuse, behavioural problems, and life transitions. Each stage of life presents unique challenges, and I find great fulfilment in providing support to my clients throughout their journey. I specialise in a range of psychological treatments that are backed by solid research outcomes including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), interpersonal therapy, and psychosomatic treatment. I work with struggles across the mental health spectrum including: • LGBTQIA+ identifying clients • Trauma (PTSD/complex trauma/intergenerational trauma) • Anxiety (generalized anxiety, social anxiety, panic disorder, specific phobias etc.) • Mood disorders/depression/dysthymia • Relationship challenges • Navigating young adulthood and other life transitions • Emotional difficulties and personality disorders • Stress/burnout • Coaching and decision making

Miss Vanlea Matthews(She/her)

Psychologist

I started my psychology journey at the University of Wollongong where I completed my undergraduate degree and then completed my honours at Monash University in Melbourne. My career began in private practise working with a diverse range of clients, ages and presentations such as anxiety, depression, trauma and stress/burnout. Regardless of age or the difficulties they experienced, what I have found is the most important part of a successful journey is the therapeutic relationship. Connection, collaboration and understanding is what can allow us to break through the challenges you are experiencing and help you reach your goals. I use evidence-based approaches in my sessions, however I understand that everyone is different, therefore I tailor these based on individual needs. I draw on modalities such as Cognitive behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness and Prolonged Exposure Therapy. I feel that while textbooks tell us how to do things and what is "right", an element of life skills, experience and a down to earth, more 'real' approach can add another dimension to sessions. I am skilled and passionate about the following presentations: • Mood and Anxiety disorders • Trauma • Grief and loss • Stress/burnout • Relationships difficulties • Parenting stress • Men’s mental health • LGBTQIA+ identifying clients I have twin girls so when I'm not working, I am mostly running after them! I love going on outings to the beach for a walk with my dog or watching the waves while I enjoy a coffee. Being outdoors is what makes me happy and if it's raining there is nothing better than some loud music and dancing around the loungeroom. If you think we might be a good fit, then I look forward to meeting you and the work we will get to do together. If not, that is totally fine and I wish you the very best and hope you do find the fit for you soon!
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