By Carlin Hayes – Registered Psychologist When we think of trauma, most people think of car accidents, the impacts of war, the death of a loved one, a violent attack, or natural disasters. More common and, as research has found, with a larger impact, are frightful, distressing and ongoing events such as childhood physical, sexual … Read more
Maxine Rickman, Provisional Psychologist Anxiety is a common experience for teenagers, perhaps more common than many parents realise. It can often stem from the pressures of school, social pressures and physical and emotional changes. For some teens, anxiety can become overwhelming, affecting their sleep, appetite, motivation, and relationships. The good news? With the right support, … Read more
Mara Barber, Registered Psychologist Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) involves experiencing unwanted, recurrent thoughts and behaviours. Obsessions and compulsions can be a normal part of development, however when they start getting in the way of everyday life or are distressing, it is a good idea to seek some assistance in breaking the cycle. OCD is estimated … Read more
By Yiing Tan – Registered Psychologist Fear is a natural human emotion, however when it becomes irrational or exaggerated, it transforms into phobia, an intense fear that can negatively impact a person’s life. From the common fear of heights to more peculiar aversions like butterflies or seashells, this blog offers some general insights into phobias … Read more
By Maxine Rickman – Provisional Psychologist Anxiety is a normal part of life. We all experience moments of stress before an important exam, a job interview, or a significant life event. However, when worry and fear become persistent, excessive and begin to interfere with daily life, this could signal an anxiety disorder. What Is an … Read more
By Emma Spencer, Clinical Psychologist Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a profile on the autism spectrum characterised by an extreme avoidance of everyday demands, where overwhelming anxiety is triggered when the individual’s nervous system perceives a threat to their autonomy. PDA clients often experience anxiety as they feel threatened by external demands—whether it’s being asked … Read more
Understanding Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Symptoms, Treatment, and Support – by Emma Spencer Clinical Psychologist Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterised by unwanted and intrusive thoughts, images, or urges (obsessions) that trigger intensely distressing feelings. To alleviate these feelings, individuals engage in repetitive behaviours or mental acts (compulsions). OCD affects people of … Read more
By: Clinical Psychologist, Emma Spencer FAPS It’s undeniable that we live in a fast-paced world where stress is a common experience for many people. It’s typical to experience some occasional stress in life. However, chronic and severe stress can lead to serious mental health issues like anxiety and depression. Understanding the connection between stress and … Read more
Written by Jessica Lopes, Registered Psychologist Most people, including children, experience occasional anxiety or worry about things in life, such as family issues, health, financial concerns, etc. This is a normal part of our contemporary busy life. However, when these feelings are extremely overwhelming and negatively impact our daily lives, and stop us from doing … Read more
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