Find clarity &
confidence with expert psychology in Newcastle
Evidence-based therapy & assessments for Newcastle locals & the wider Hunter community, face-to-face or online.
Are you experiencing…
Worries that won’t switch off, leaving you restless or on edge?
Difficulties connecting with others, feeling misunderstood by people close to you?
Overwhelming memories from the past, or feeling stuck after something traumatic?
Repetitive thoughts or behaviours that are hard to control or let go?
Trouble sleeping, lying awake at night, or waking up exhausted?
Persistent feelings of sadness or loss that just won’t shift?
Struggles with eating, body image, or habits you wish you could change?
Low mood, lack of motivation, or days that just feel too hard?
Finding it hard to concentrate, stay organised, or finish tasks?
Start your journey to feeling more like yourself
Whether you’re ready for therapy or just have questions, our team is here to listen and support you.
How we can support you
We provide practical therapy and assessments tailored for children, teens, and adults. Our team uses proven, evidence-based approaches to provide care that’s tailored to your needs and your story. The focus is on making sure you feel comfortable, respected, and genuinely listened to - whether you’re visiting in person or meeting online.
Open Mind Psychologists is an inclusive practice, welcoming people from all backgrounds. You don’t need to have private health insurance, a Mental Health Care Plan, or a referral to make an appointment.
We provide support for:
- Anxiety and depression
- Stress
- Grief and loss
- Sleep problems and insomnia
- ADHD and Autism assessments
- Trauma and PTSD
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Personality disorders
- Eating disorders
- Life transitions and adjustment
- Relationship and family challenges
- Self-esteem and identity concerns
- Parenting support and child behaviour
Hello, I’m Alex.
I believe therapy should feel like a genuine conversation - where you feel heard, accepted, and understood, not judged or rushed. From a young age, I was drawn to people’s stories and the way we all face life’s ups and downs. That curiosity grew into a deep respect for the challenges each person carries and a strong desire to help others find their footing when things get tough.
I’ve been a registered psychologist since 2021, working in private practice with clients of all ages. My experience covers a wide range of presentations including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, trauma, sleep issues, ADHD, Autism, and major life changes. I have a particular interest in sleep and am a certified Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) practitioner and a member of the Australasian Sleep Association. I’m also trained in a number of evidence-based therapies, including CBT, ACT, DBT, and Exposure and Response Prevention.
I take a practical and collaborative approach by supporting you to better understand your emotions and providing you with strategies to face challenges with confidence.
It’s never easy to reach out, but I believe small steps can lead to real change. I look forward to meeting you and helping you discover what’s possible, even when things feel uncertain.
Hello, I’m Margaret.
I believe therapy should feel like a genuine conversation, where you feel heard, accepted, and understood, not judged or rushed.
With more than 20 years of experience as a Clinical Psychologist, I bring a depth of knowledge, compassion, and a genuine curiosity about people to my work. My career started in public mental health services in Western Australia, before expanding my experience in Queensland and Scotland, where I gained valuable knowledge working within different health systems and communities. For the past 17 years, I have worked primarily in private practice while also supervising postgraduate students, registrars, and psychologists across public health, university, and private practice settings. Over the years I have supported adults, adolescents, couples, and families.
Therapy, for me, is not about one rigid method, it’s about meeting each person where they are and tailoring support to their unique needs. My approach is integrative and draws on a wide range of evidence-based therapies. I was first trained in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), and along the way I have expanded my practice to include psychoanalytic perspectives, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based approaches. I work in a deeply relational way, informed by attachment theory, and early training in systemic family therapy continues to influence my understanding of relationships and connection.
Couples work has become a real passion of mine. Discovering Emotion Focused Therapy was a turning point in my career. I felt at home in its depth, humanity, and effectiveness for couples. It remains the approach I most closely align with, offering couples a way back to safety and understanding in their relationships. I also find Internal Family Systems and Compassion Focused Therapy invaluable in helping people develop kindness toward themselves and create lasting change.
At the heart of my practice is a belief that therapy is a collaborative journey. I see my role as providing a safe, supportive space where clients are empowered to create meaningful change in their lives.
Our approach to practical,
person-centred care
At Open Mind Psychologists, we believe that support should feel genuine, down-to-earth, and tailored to the individual, not just the diagnosis. Our approach is evidence-based and person-centred, drawing from proven therapies that fit your life, your experiences, and your goals.
We work with children, teens and adults across Newcastle and the Hunter community, offering a safe space where people can talk freely, explore what’s troubling them, and find real ways forward.
Our team uses a range of therapeutic approaches, including:
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-i)
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
- Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
- Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
- Solutions Focused Therapy
- Motivational Interviewing
We know that mental health isn’t just about thoughts and feelings - it’s also shaped by sleep, daily routines, relationships, and the ups and downs of life. That’s why we look at the whole person, not just the problem.
We offer both in-person and telehealth support, so getting the help you need fits around work, family, and everything else life throws at you. Our practice is inclusive and affirming, welcoming people from all backgrounds, including LGBTQIA+, First Nations, and neurodivergent clients.
Therapy here isn’t about ticking boxes. It’s about helping people build confidence, feel understood, and get practical strategies that work in everyday life.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s natural to have questions before booking in. Here are some answers to things people often ask. If you can’t find what you’re after, reach out and we’ll help out.
What happens in the first session?
It’s normal to feel a bit unsure before your first session. We’ll start by getting to know you and what’s brought you in.
The psychologist will ask some questions about your background, listen to your concerns, and together you’ll talk about what you’d like to get out of therapy.
It’s also a chance for you to see if we’re the right fit for you.
How soon can I get an appointment?
There’s no long waitlist here. We have immediate availability for new clients, both in-person and online.
If you’re ready to get started, send through an enquiry or give us a call and we’ll get you booked in as soon as possible.
What are your fees and rebate options?
- Therapy sessions with a Registered Psychologist cost $220, with a Medicare rebate of $98.95 available if you have a Mental Health Care Plan.
- Therapy sessions with a Clinical Psychologist cost $265 with a Medicare rebate of $145.25 available if you have a Mental Health Care Plan.
- Private health claims can be made directly with your fund after full payment. Workcover sessions are fully covered if approved.
- Autism assessments start from $2,560 and ADHD assessments are $2,100, before rebates from Medicare (limited rebates may apply).
What kinds of issues do you help with?
We work with a wide range of concerns including: anxiety, depression, trauma, sleep problems, ADHD, Autism, grief, and more. If something is making life harder than it needs to be, we’re here to help you find clarity and practical ways forward.
Can I book an assessment for Autism or ADHD?
Absolutely. We offer comprehensive Autism and ADHD assessments for children, teens, and adults.
These include interviews, questionnaires, and a feedback session. The goal is to give you clear answers, practical recommendations, and a detailed report that can help with school, work, or daily life.
Do you see clients under private health, NDIS, WorkCover, DCJ?
Yes. We accept private health, NDIS (self- or plan-managed), and approved WorkCover claims. If you're with DCJ, please contact us to discuss your options.
Do you offer telehealth services?
Yes, telehealth appointments are available for anyone in Newcastle, the Hunter region, or anywhere in Australia.
You can connect with us from home or wherever you’re comfortable, using a secure video link. Telehealth is a flexible option for those who can’t make it to the office or just prefer online support.
Take the next step towards feeling better
Contact us to book, learn more, or see if we’re the right fit for you. Every conversation is private and judgement-free.