Services
EMDR Therapy (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing)
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EMDR is an evidence-based psychotherapy developed for the treatment of trauma and other distressing life experiences. EMDR helps clients reprocess traumatic memories so they are no longer psychologically disruptive. The therapy is based on the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model, which proposes that psychological symptoms stem from inadequately processed or maladaptively stored memories. EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements, taps, or sounds) while the client focuses on aspects of a distressing memory. This dual focus facilitates the integration of traumatic experiences into more adaptive memory networks.
Key Features
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A typical course is 16 weekly sessions.
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Structured, 8-phase protocol (history taking, preparation, assessment, desensitisation, installation, body scan, closure, re-evaluation).
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Dual awareness: clients hold one foot in the memory and one in the present, allowing safe processing.
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Applications: Originally for PTSD, but now also supported for OCD, addictions, phobias, anxiety, depression, grief, and complex trauma.
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EMDR may be suitable for:
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First responders or frontline workers
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Survivors of single-incident or complex trauma
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Individuals with anxiety, phobias, or grief
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Those who have tried other therapies but still feel unresolved distress
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Couples Services
For couples therapy, the first session is typically attended by one partner individually. This allows time to explore their perspective, history, and goals for therapy in a confidential space.
The second session is attended by the other partner individually. From the third session onward, both partners usually attend together for joint sessions.
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Couples sessions are either 60 minutes or 80–90 minutes in length, depending on the issues being addressed and the stage of therapy. While Medicare rebates are not available for couples therapy, private fees apply.
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Our approach is collaborative and neutral, with a focus on improving communication, understanding patterns of conflict, and fostering healthier relationship dynamics. Where appropriate, we may draw upon evidence-based frameworks such as the Gottman Method or emotionally focused/ Psychodynamic approaches.
Assessment Services
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At Nelson Bay Psychology, we provide comprehensive psychological assessments to support children, adolescents, and adults. Our assessments are tailored to answer important questions about development, learning, behaviour, and wellbeing. Each assessment includes clinical interviews, standardised testing, observation, and a detailed written report with practical recommendations.
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Types of Assessments Offered
Autism Spectrum Assessments
We use gold-standard tools (including the MIGDAS-2 framework, and parent/teacher interviews) to explore strengths and differences in social communication, sensory processing, and behaviour. Assessments provide clarity for diagnosis, early intervention, school supports, and NDIS applications.
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ADHD and Attention Assessments
Assessment of attention, hyperactivity, and executive functioning through clinical interview, behaviour rating scales (parent/teacher/self-report), and cognitive testing. Results help clarify whether ADHD or other factors are impacting focus, learning, and daily life.
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Cognitive / Learning Assessments (IQ & Achievement Testing)
Using the WISC-V and related measures, we assess reasoning, problem solving, memory, processing speed, and learning. These assessments can identify giftedness, learning disorders (e.g., dyslexia), or areas where a child may need extra support at school.
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Emotional and Behavioural Assessments
Assessment of mood, anxiety, social-emotional skills, and behavioural challenges through standardised measures and clinical formulation. Helpful for understanding mental health concerns and guiding treatment planning.
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Adaptive Functioning Assessments
We provide assessments of daily living skills (using tools such as the ABAS-3) to inform diagnoses, support plans, and NDIS applications. These capture how a person manages communication, self-care, socialisation, and independence.
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Diagnostic Clarification
Sometimes multiple concerns overlap (e.g., autism, ADHD, anxiety, learning difficulties). A comprehensive assessment can clarify the diagnostic picture and ensure the right supports are put in place.
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What to Expect
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Initial Consultation – gathering background history and referral concerns.
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Testing Sessions – standardised assessments and observations, tailored to age and needs.
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Feedback & Report – a detailed report with clear results, interpretation, and recommendations, followed by a feedback session to discuss findings and next steps.
WorkCover & SIRA Psychological Services
Our psychologists are accredited by the NSW State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA) to provide services under the NSW Workers Compensation (WorkCover) We work with cases for psychological injury, PTSD, anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, and stress-related concerns related to workplace or motor vehicle incidents.
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We collaborate closely with treating doctors to support recovery
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Clear communication and coordination of treatment progress is maintained as per SIRA’s guidelines.
NDIS Services
Nelson Bay Psychology provides psychological services to self-managed and plan-managed NDIS participants. We offer assessment and therapeutic support for individuals with neurodevelopmental conditions, psychosocial disabilities, and co-occurring mental health needs.
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Our NDIS services may include:
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Psychological therapy to support emotional regulation, anxiety, mood, behaviour, and daily functioning
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Assessment and diagnostic clarification (e.g., autism, ADHD, cognitive functioning, adaptive behaviour)
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Reports to support plan reviews or access requests
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Collaborative goal setting and functional interventions
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Support with building routines, emotional awareness, social skills, and coping strategies
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We do not currently offer services to NDIA-managed participants.
Please ensure you have your plan details, goals, and funding categories available when booking.
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Child and Adolescent Counselling
For the first appointment, parents or carers are required to attend without the child. This allows for an open and thorough discussion of the presenting concerns. In most cases, the child will attend the second session. In some instances, it may be appropriate to work primarily with the parent or carer to implement behavioural management strategies.
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If the young person is over 16 years of age, they may attend the first appointment independently. However, parents or carers may still be invited to participate in future sessions where appropriate.
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It is essential that we have up-to-date contact details for all parents or carers of clients under 18 years of age. Therapy with children typically involves active parental participation, and parents will often be asked to attend part of each session.