Mental Health First Aid - The Therapy Hub

Hi, I’m Marie Vakakis,

The director of The Therapy Hub and host of the podcast This Complex Life

Welcome. I help individuals and couples want to be happy, confident, and live meaningfully. Sometimes we’re weighed down by anxiety, stress, depression or trauma. School, work, relationships, identity, and/or self-esteem issues can make life difficult to enjoy. This can often leave us feeling stuck.

Life can be tough. I understand, and I’m here to help. Together we’ll figure out who you are, who you want to be, and how to get you there.

I work as a couple and individual therapist, using EMDR Therapy intensives, Gottman Couples Therapy Marathon intensives as well as regular weekly or fortnightly sessions.

I incorporate a range of techniques such as Gottman Couples Therapy, ACT, CBT, EMDR and mindfulness in my work to support you in this process.

What else can I tell you about myself? I’m a little bit of a nerd and don’t take myself too seriously – life’s too short! I’m your classic animal lover, especially dogs. I love the great outdoors – hiking and camping (except I hate mosquitoes!)

My approach to therapy is direct, yet genuine and supportive. I have a sense of humour about myself, and I encourage my clients to adopt the same attitude. I am incredibly enthusiastic and I am excited to work together and create meaningful and lasting change in your life.

Everything we talk about is just between the people in the room (unless there are safety concerns, I’ll explain all that to you in our first session). Think of me as your trusted confidant. Someone who is ready to listen, never judge – but also be honest with you in order to bring forward positive change.

You can learn more about me on my podcast This Complex Life or my YouTube channel

‘’I’m 100% invested in this process. I am passionate about helping people feel understood and heard. Overcome past painful experiences and helping couples and families increase connection with one another.’’

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My particular areas of interest and passion include, but are not limited to are

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Couples Counselling

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Working with adolescents and young adults

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Gender and sexuality exploration

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Relationship/Interpersonal Concerns

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Anxiety Concerns

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Working with Trauma & difficult life experiences

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EMDR Therapy

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Parenting Interventions and Support

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QUALIFICATIONS/ TRAININGS:

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Accredited Mental Health Social Worker

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Masters of Family Therapy, LaTrobe University

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Completed level 3 Gottman Method Couples training

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Accredited EMDR Therapy Practitioner, child, adolescent and adult.

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Bachelor of Arts (majoring in psychology), Monash University

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Masters of Social Work (additional research year/ thesis) The University of Melbourne

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Graduate Diploma of Youth and Adolescent Mental Health , The University of Melbourne

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Member of the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW)

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Accredited ‘Tuning Into Teens’ Parenting Program Facilitator

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Accredited Youth Mental Health First Aid Instructor

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Accredited Standard Mental Health First Aid Instructor

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PRICES

Sessions with Marie are $280 for 50 minutes

Some sessions may be eligible for Medicare rebates of $81.90

Couples Therapy sessions

EMDR therapy intensive

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AVAILABILITY

Monday , Tuesday, Thursday, Friday

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Hi, I’m Amal Saleh-Zada,

I am a registered counsellor. I have been working with adolescents, young adults and adults for over ten years.

I consider the role of counsellor to be a privilege. Humour is the biggest strength I bring to the counselling space.

I am particularly interested in Men’s mental health and strive to create a safe space for open discussions around feelings, emotions and challenges that men face. The quality of our working relationship has a significant impact on the counselling process. We will work collaboratively to help increase your self-awareness of your relationship with yourself and others and explore any obstacles preventing you from living your best life by helping you develop the skills to achieve it.

Although various counselling modalities exist, I will use a combination of approaches, including person-centred (client-led), solution-focused, and CBT.

At times you may laugh with me, and more often than not, you will laugh at me…but it’s all part of the fun. In my downtime, I enjoy a hike in the middle of nowhere, my martial arts class, drawing if I am not doing some woodwork or learning about the latest tech gadgets.

“We don’t know what we don’t know. That’s where counselling can help shed light on what we can change. As Andy Andrews said, ‘Every good thing that has happened in your life happened because something changed.'”

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My particular areas of interest and passion include, but are not limited to are

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Trauma

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Depression

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Anxiety

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Family and Relationship issues

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School and work difficulties

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Behavioural problems

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Dealing with change

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Working with young people from CALD, migrant and refugee backgrounds

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QUALIFICATIONS/ TRAININGS:

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Bachelor of Counselling, Australian College of Applied Psychology

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Biopsychosocial Assessments

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Safety and Stabilisation, Approach for complex trauma (Blue Knot Foundation)

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Registrant of PACFA National Register of Psychotherapists and Counsellors

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Building Foundations – Working Survivors of Sexual Assault (ECASA)

Check out this interview on This Complex Life episode where Amal talks about young men’s mental and emotional health.

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AVAILABILITY

Saturdays

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AVAILABILITY

Fees start at $180

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Hi, I’m Stephanie

I’m a dedicated and compassionate counsellor and social worker with a profound commitment to empowering individuals and fostering positive change within our community. Holding a Master of Social Work and currently pursuing a Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy, I bring knowledge and practical experience to my role.

With four years of experience in a school setting, I apply evidence-based interventions and a holistic perspective to address the unique needs of each individual. I am recognised for my empathetic and non-judgmental approach, creating a safe space for clients to explore and navigate their challenges. I firmly believe in the transformative power of resilience and work diligently to empower individuals to overcome obstacles and realise their full potential.

Beyond my clinical expertise, I am recognised for my empathetic and non-judgmental approach, creating a safe space for clients to explore and navigate their challenges. I firmly believe in the transformative power of resilience and work diligently to empower individuals to overcome obstacles and realise their full potential.

My professional approach revolves around client-centred work, solution-focused, strengths-based approaches and CBT. I have a proven track record of making a meaningful impact on individuals navigating diverse challenges.

Fun fact: I enjoy hiking in nature; I train at the gym most nights, a few times a week after work, and I enjoy a good meal.

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My particular areas of interest and passion include

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Working with young people and adults

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Addressing anxiety and depression concerns

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Supporting individuals dealing with trauma and life difficulties

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Implementing parenting interventions

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Social and emotional difficulties

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Working with BIPOC community

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Coping Skills

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Goal setting

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Addressing school-related problems, including overall school disengagement, school refusal

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Navigating issues of self-harm and suicidal ideation

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Working with culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities

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QUALIFICATIONS/ TRAININGS:

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Masters of Social Work

Bachelor of Arts, Media & Communication

Currently completing a Masters of Counselling and Psychotherapy

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AVAILABILITY

Friday evenings & Saturdays

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Hi, I’m Anne,

I come to The Therpay Hub with years of experience working in clinics in the Inner West. It can be daunting starting this process for the first time and Anne is passionate about helping people find the right fit for themselves or their family. When not working she’s trying her best to have a thriving veggie garden (that can withstand the attentions of a helpful toddler).

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AVAILABILITY

I work at The Therapy Hub a combination of remote and in the office. (Mostly remote at the moment). Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays

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Hi, I’m Semhar,

I’m a dedicated psychologist with a robust background in psychology and a deep commitment to fostering the mental well-being of individuals, particularly young people.

My extensive experience covers a broad spectrum of psychological issues, enabling me to effectively address diverse mental health challenges and offer personalised support to clients in a culturally sensitive and neurodivergent-affirming manner. I integrate a trauma-informed and intersectional framework into my practice.

With a compassionate and empathetic approach, my focus is on helping clients navigate their emotional well-being, fostering positive growth, and achieving a high quality of care. I utilise a variety of modalities and collaborate with clients to choose the best approach, drawing from methods such as Narrative Therapy, Trauma-focused CBT, Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Complicated Grief Therapy, and Family Therapy.

”I am passionate about supporting young people and their families on their journey toward mental wellness!”

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QUALIFICATIONS/ TRAININGS:

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Bachelor of Psychological Science

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Graduate Diploma of Psychology Advanced

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Master of Professional Psychology

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Registered with AHPRA and member of the Australian Association of Psychologists Inc

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AVAILABILITY:

Mondays

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Hi, I’m Cass,

I am a qualified Mental Health Social Worker and Clinical Counsellor with a special interest in working with older teens through to adults.

I’m dedicated to providing support to individuals dealing with various issues such as anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, and grief.

My commitment lies in creating a safe and welcoming environment where my clients can openly discuss the challenges they face. I believe in collaboration, working closely with my clients to empower them to make positive changes in their lives, ultimately improving their mental and physical well-being.

Outside of my professional life, I enjoy spending time outdoors and connecting with nature. When I’m not in the office, I’m often out camping, hiking, surfing, or skating. I’m a sociable individual with a great sense of humour, always ready to meet new people.

My therapeutic approach can be described as down-to-earth, engaging, and relaxed. I draw from various solution-focused practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, EMDR therapy, and Mindfulness training. I adapt my style and techniques to meet the unique needs of each individual.

“I am passionate about working with people to help create a happier and more fulfilled life. I believe that everyone has the potential create positive change despite adversity; we just need the tools to be able do so.”

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My particular areas of interest and passion include, but are not limited to are

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Working with older teens through to adults

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Depression

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Anxiety

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Social and emotional difficulties

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Trauma

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Goal setting

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Self-esteem issues

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School and work difficulties

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Relationship Problems

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Behavioural problems

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Anger management

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Routines and time management

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QUALIFICATIONS/ TRAININGS:

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Accredited Mental Health Social Worker

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Masters of Clinical Counselling

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Art Therapy

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EMDR

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AVAILABILITY

Monday 9am – 4:30pm
Tuesday 9am – 1.30
Wednesday 9am – 4:30pm
Thursday 9am – 1.30

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Training & Events

THE Therapy Hub Training & Events

Online Youth Mental Health first aid

Youth Mental Health first aid

Youth Mental Health first aid Refresher

TUNING INTO TEENS

CONVERSATIONS ABOUT NON-SUICIDAL SELF-INJURY

Conversations about Suicide

The Therapy Hub TRAINING & Events CALENDAR

Hi, I’m Marie Vakakis,

PRICES

AVAILABILITY

Hi, I’m Amal Saleh-Zada,

Check out this interview on This Complex Life episode where Amal talks about young men’s mental and emotional health.

AVAILABILITY

AVAILABILITY

Hi, I’m Stephanie

AVAILABILITY

Hi, I’m Anne,

AVAILABILITY

Hi, I’m Semhar,

Hi, I’m Cass,

AVAILABILITY