Adult Psychology Sunshine Coast

At Care Psychology Sunshine Coast, our experienced mental health practitioner is here to support you.  Linda is committed to supporting adults and adolescents who are experiencing social, emotional, or behavioural challenges in a kind and nurturing way. Some of the areas we can provide you with psychological guidance in include:

Adjustment Disorders

Adjustment disorders are a category of mental health conditions characterised by emotional and behavioural symptoms that arise in response to significant life stressors or changes. These stressors can include events like job loss, divorce, relocation, or the death of a loved one.

Often, we do not feel prepared when events like this take place. Adjustment disorders tend to present as a reaction that is disproportionate to the stressor’s severity, or that causes significant distress and impairing daily functioning. Symptoms may include anxiety, sadness, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and changes in behaviour.

Treatment for adjustment disorders typically involves therapy, particularly cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), which helps individuals develop healthier coping strategies and resilience in the face of stressors. Supportive counselling and, in some cases, medication to manage specific symptoms like anxiety or depression may also be recommended.

The goal of treatment is to alleviate distress, improve functioning, and assist individuals in adapting to life changes and transitions more effectively. 

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that commonly manifests in childhood and continues into adulthood. It is characterised by persistent patterns of inattention, and/or hyperactivity, and impulsivity that can significantly interfere with daily life and functioning.

Individuals with ADHD may struggle with tasks requiring sustained attention, organisation, time management, and follow-through. They may also exhibit impulsive behaviours, such as interrupting others or making hasty decisions.

While ADHD can present various challenges, it’s essential to recognise that it can also come with strengths, such as creativity, hyperfocus on areas of interest, and high levels of energy.

Diagnosis and treatment typically involve a comprehensive assessment by a mental health professional, and interventions may include behavioural therapy, medication, and lifestyle modifications.

With appropriate support and management strategies, individuals with ADHD can learn to harness their unique qualities and thrive in various aspects of their lives. 

Anxiety

Anxiety is a complex and sometimes overwhelming emotional state characterised by a pervasive sense of unease, apprehension, and excessive worry. It is a natural and adaptive response to stress or potential threats, but when it becomes chronic or disproportionate to the situation at hand, it can significantly disrupt a person’s daily life and well-being.

Anxiety can manifest both physically and mentally, leading to symptoms such as a racing heart, shallow breathing, restlessness, and racing thoughts. It can range from mild to severe, and in its most extreme form, it can lead to panic attacks.

Anxiety disorders, including generalised anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobias, are common mental health conditions associated with persistent and distressing anxiety.

Understanding anxiety and seeking appropriate support and treatment can be essential in helping individuals manage and cope with this challenging emotional state.

At Care Psychology we utilise evidence -based approaches to treating and managing anxiety such as cognitive-behaviour therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy. 

Autism

Autism, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects how individuals perceive and interact with the world around them. It is characterised by a wide range of symptoms that can vary significantly from person to person, hence the term “spectrum.”

Common features of autism include differences in social communication and interaction, repetitive behaviours, and restricted interests. Some individuals with autism may also have sensory sensitivities, language delays, or intellectual disabilities, while others may excel in specific areas like technology or music or art. Many successful and famous people throughout history have been thought to have autism.

Autism is a lifelong neurodivergent condition that shapes an individual’s unique way of experiencing the world. Early intervention, therapy, and support can greatly enhance the quality of life for people with autism, helping them develop their strengths and navigate any challenges.

At Care Psychology we recognise and respect the diverse abilities and perspectives of individuals with autism and support neurodivergent-affirming practice.  

Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterised by extreme and fluctuating shifts in mood and energy levels over specific lengths of time.

Individuals with bipolar disorder experience episodes of mania or hypomania, marked by elevated mood, increased energy, impulsivity, and a decreased need for sleep for four or more days. These episodes alternate with depressive episodes of at least two weeks duration, characterized by profound sadness, hopelessness, fatigue, and changes in appetite and sleep patterns.

Bipolar disorder can disrupt an individual’s personal, social, and occupational life. The severity and duration of these mood swings vary from person to person.

Effective treatment often involves a combination of mood-stabilising medications, psychotherapy, and lifestyle adjustments.

While bipolar disorder can pose challenges, many individuals with the condition lead fulfilling lives with proper management, enabling them to maintain stability and pursue their goals. 

Depression

Depression is a mental health disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterised by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a profound loss of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyed.

Depression can be debilitating and often brings about a range of physical and emotional symptoms, including changes in appetite, sleep patterns, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and even physical aches and pains. While it’s normal to experience occasional sadness or low mood, depression is distinguished by its prolonged and pervasive nature, often lasting for weeks, months, or even years.

Depression can be triggered by various factors, including genetic predisposition, chemical imbalances in the brain, trauma, and life stressors. It’s a highly treatable condition, typically managed through a combination of therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and social support.

Prompt recognition and support for individuals experiencing depression is crucial, as untreated depression can have a profound impact on one’s quality of life and overall well-being.

At Care Psychology depression is treated with compassionate understanding, cognitive-behavioural therapy and conversations that promote changes in thinking and behaviour that support mood improvement.  

Grief and Loss

Grief and loss counselling is a specialised form of therapy designed to help individuals navigate the complex and often overwhelming emotions that arise after experiencing a significant loss, such as the death of a loved one, divorce, or other life-altering events.

The process of grieving is deeply personal and can manifest in various ways, including sadness, anger, guilt, and physical symptoms.

Grief counsellors provide a supportive and empathic environment where individuals can openly express their feelings and thoughts, helping them to make sense of their emotions and work through the grieving process.

Therapists offer coping strategies, provide tools for managing grief-related symptoms, and guide individuals toward acceptance and healing.

Grief and loss counselling can be instrumental in helping people find a way to move forward, adapt to their new circumstances, and honour the memory of their loved ones while gradually rebuilding their lives.

Health and Wellness

Health and wellness encompasses a holistic approach to one’s overall well-being, emphasising physical, mental, and emotional health. It goes beyond the absence of illness and instead focuses on achieving a state of optimal health and vitality.

This involves making conscious choices to maintain a balanced lifestyle, including regular exercise, a nutritious diet, adequate sleep, and stress management.

Mental and emotional well-being are equally essential, involving practices like mindfulness, self-care, and seeking support when needed. Prioritising health and wellness not only contributes to longevity but also enhances the quality of life, promoting resilience and the ability to navigate life’s challenges with vitality and a sense of fulfilment.

It’s a lifelong journey that empowers individuals to take control of their health, make informed choices, and cultivate a state of harmony and vitality in their daily lives. 

LGBTQIA+

LGBTQIA+ represents a diverse community and individuals within the community face unique challenges and experiences.

LGBTQIA+ individuals often confront discrimination, prejudice, and societal pressures that can lead to increased rates of mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, and identity-related stress.

LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy creates a safe and supportive space where individuals can explore their identities, navigate the coming-out process, and address issues related to general mental wellbeing, family issues, discrimination, or relationship difficulties.

Counsellors provide emotional support and foster self-acceptance, resilience, and mental well-being. Care Psychology supports equality and social acceptance for all sexual orientations and gender identities. 

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

OCD is a mental health condition characterised by persistent and intrusive thoughts (obsessions) that lead to repetitive behaviours or mental acts (compulsions). These obsessions can cause anxiety and distress, and individuals with OCD engage in compulsions to alleviate or reduce these distressing thoughts.

However, these compulsive behaviours often provide only temporary relief and can significantly interfere with daily life.

OCD can manifest in various ways, from fears of contamination leading to excessive hand-washing to the need for symmetry and order. OCD can impact one’s ability to function at work, in relationships, and in social situations.

Effective treatment for OCD typically involves cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), particularly exposure and response prevention (ERP), which helps individuals confront their obsessions without engaging in compulsive behaviours. Medication may also be prescribed in some cases.

With proper treatment and support, individuals with OCD can learn to manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives. 

Older Adult Mental Health

Older adult mental health and treatment requires a thoughtful approach that acknowledges the unique challenges faced as people get older.

As we age, we may experience a range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, cognitive decline, and even neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. Early detection and intervention are vital in improving the quality of life for older adults and managing these conditions effectively.

Treatment often involves a combination of therapies, medication management, and lifestyle adjustments. Cognitive-behavioural therapy, and supportive counselling can help address emotional and psychological concerns. Reminiscence and life review therapy can also be very beneficial for older adults to be able to look back and reflect on their life experiences. Promoting social engagement, physical activity, and a healthy diet can also support mental well-being in older adults.

The goal is to enhance the overall quality of life, maintain independence, and ensure people continue to enjoy fulfilling and meaningful experiences in their later years. 

Panic Attacks

Panic attacks are intense, overwhelming surges of anxiety and fear that can strike suddenly and unpredictably.

During a panic attack, individuals often experience a range of distressing symptoms, including rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, chest pain, sweating, trembling, dizziness, and a sense of impending doom. These episodes can be so intense that they may feel like a heart attack or a life-threatening situation, even though they are not physically dangerous.

Panic attacks can occur in response to stress or triggers, but they can also happen seemingly out of the blue, which can be particularly distressing. While panic attacks can be a distressing experience, they are treatable with therapeutic approaches such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), medication, or a combination of both.

Understanding and managing panic attacks often involves identifying triggers, learning relaxation techniques, and developing coping strategies to regain control and mitigate these experiences. 

Postnatal Depression

Postnatal depression, also known as postpartum depression, is a significant mental health concern that affects some individuals after giving birth. It’s characterised by persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, and exhaustion that can interfere with a new mother’s ability to care for herself and her baby.

Postnatal depression is not a sign of weakness or inadequacy but rather a complex condition often influenced by hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, and the challenges of adjusting to motherhood.

Symptoms may include intense mood swings, difficulty bonding with the baby, withdrawal from friends and family, and changes in appetite or sleep patterns.

Seeking help is essential, as untreated postnatal depression can have adverse effects on both the mother and the baby’s well-being. Supportive therapies, counselling, and, in some cases, medication can be effective in managing postnatal depression, allowing women to recover and enjoy motherhood more fully.

It’s important to recognise that postnatal depression is a common and treatable condition, and support is available for you. 

Self-Esteem Coaching

Self-esteem coaching is a form of personal development that focuses on enhancing an individual’s self-esteem and self-worth. It is a collaborative and empowering process where trained practitioners work with the client to identify and address the underlying factors that may be contributing to low self-esteem.

Through tailored techniques and strategies, self-esteem coaching helps individuals build a healthier self-image, improve self-confidence, and develop a more positive self-perception.

Practitioners may offer guidance, encouragement, and practical exercises to challenge negative self-beliefs, set achievable goals, and foster a greater sense of self-acceptance and self-love.

This form of support can be transformative, helping individuals to break free from self-doubt and cultivate a more positive and empowered outlook on themselves and their lives. 

Social Anxiety

Social anxiety, also known as social anxiety disorder, is characterised by fear and discomfort in social situations. Individuals with social anxiety often experience overwhelming worry about being judged, embarrassed, or humiliated by others, leading to avoidance of social interactions whenever possible.

These fears can significantly impact various aspects of life, from forming relationships to pursuing career opportunities. Physical symptoms, such as blushing, sweating, trembling, and a rapid heartbeat, often accompany social anxiety, making it a distressing and impairing condition.

Treatment options for social anxiety include cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, medication, and self-help strategies. With appropriate support and therapy, individuals with social anxiety can learn to manage their symptoms, build self-confidence, and gradually face their fears, leading to improved social functioning and a better quality of life. 

Stress Management

Stress management is an important part of maintaining both our mental and physical well-being in today’s fast-paced world. It involves adopting a range of strategies and techniques to effectively cope with and reduce the negative effects of stress on our lives.

This includes practices such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Additionally, seeking support from friends, family, or professionals can be helpful.

Your psychologist can assist you to identify your own unique stressors and how to manage these. Prioritising self-care and implementing these strategies can not only alleviate the immediate symptoms of stress but also build resilience to better navigate life’s challenges and lead a more balanced and fulfilling life. 

Trauma

Trauma, whether resulting from a single distressing event or prolonged exposure to adversity, can have profound and lasting effects on an individual’s mental and emotional well-being.

Treatment for trauma is a multifaceted and personalised process that aims to help survivors heal and regain a sense of control over their lives. Therapeutic approaches often include evidence-based modalities such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT). These therapies can help with processing traumatic experiences, manage distressing symptoms, and develop healthier coping strategies.

Additionally, social supports play a crucial role in the recovery process. Ultimately, the journey towards healing from trauma requires patience, empathy, and a holistic approach that recognises the unique needs and resilience of each survivor. 

Women’s Wellbeing

Women’s wellbeing counselling is a form of therapy tailored to address the unique challenges and issues that women may face in various stages of their lives. This type of counselling focuses on promoting emotional, mental, and psychological health by providing a safe and supportive environment for women to explore their feelings, thoughts, and experiences.

Women’s wellbeing counselling often covers a wide range of topics, including self-esteem, body image, relationships, motherhood, career challenges, trauma, and stress management. It aims to empower women to develop coping strategies, build resilience, and enhance their overall sense of wellbeing.

At Care Psychology we have expertise in gender-specific concerns and provide guidance and support to help you navigate these challenges for greater mental and emotional balance. 

Workplace Stress

Work stress is a pervasive aspect of modern life, affecting individuals across various professions and industries.

People face relentless demands, high expectations, and pressures in their workplaces. This persistent stress can have detrimental effects on both physical and mental health, leading to issues such as anxiety, depression, burnout, and physical ailments like heart disease and hypertension.

Additionally, work stress can strain personal relationships and diminish overall well-being. Addressing and managing work-related stress not only makes work manageable but allows you to enjoy the rest of your life as well.