
Depression therapy
Your path to joy & well being
a holistic & natural support program
If you’re struggling with stress, anxiety, major depressive disorder or and related mental health challenges, you’re not alone - and support is available, now.
I know that these conditions can make it a challenge to just get out of bed and make it through the day, because I was stuck in a spiral of clinical depression and acute anxiety for many years myself. Now I'm on the other side, I am passionate about helping others out of the black hole and back to joy.
My approach combines evidence-based techniques with deep mind therapy to address not just the symptoms, but the underlying causes of your depression.
“My own experience with depression & recovery makes me passionate about helping others find their way back to health
& happiness.”
What is depression therapy?
Depression therapy is a specialised treatment approach designed to help individuals resolve depressive symptoms by develop healthier thought patterns, emotional responses, and practical life resources.
Unlike approaches that focus solely on medication, surface-level management or coping mechanisms, my approach addresses the whole you - mind, body, and spirit. This comprehensive system helps you not just feel better, but you and your subconscious build lasting resilience against potential future depressive episodes.
Whether you've just started noticing symptoms, or you've struggled for years with treatment-resistant depression, I'm here to help, and am proud to have had much success with clients who have improved with traditional therapies or medications.
Who can benefit from it?
My depression therapy services are designed for anyone experiencing:
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Major depressive disorder
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Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia)
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Seasonal affective disorder
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Postpartum/perinatal depression
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Situational depression following life changes or loss
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Depression alongside anxiety disorders
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Low mood that interferes with daily functioning
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Feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, or excessive guilt
My journey with depression
If you're struggling with depression, I want you to know that I truly understand. For over 20 years I was lost in a spiral of depression that made even the simplest tasks feel overwhelming.
When I was diagnosed, I was relieved to know my low mood wasn't because I was defective, but I didn't know how to move forward.
I visited numerous therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists for help, but continued to struggle until I found a counsellor who introduced me to Change Work and deep mind therapy.
Instead of just handing me meds and coping strategies in a toss of the coin attempt to manage my symptoms, this approach finally gave me access to the root causes of my depression - transforming my life.
Thankfully, my personal experience with both depression and recovery now informs my work and deepens my commitment to help others find their way to joy and well being.
My therapeutic approach to depression
My approach to resolving depression is based on understanding that depression affects the whole person - your thoughts, emotions, physical health, relationships, and sense of meaning and purpose.
I know that depression is not a character flaw or a weakness, it's a complex condition influenced by biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors.
I use a combination of evidence-based techniques for depression treatment including:
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Change work: Identifying and transforming limiting beliefs and thought patterns
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Subconscious Dynamics™: Accessing unconscious resources and resolving core issues
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Mindfulness-based approaches: Building awareness and acceptance of emotions without being overwhelmed by them
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Modern hypnotherapy: Addressing unconscious patterns and creating new neural pathways
My unique therapy
What makes my approach unique is the integration of this combination of techniques with a whole-person perspective that considers all aspects of your wellbeing and life. I don't just help you manage symptoms—I help you transform your relationship with yourself and create a life of genuine meaning and joy.
"I don't just give you crutches to help you manage symptoms - I help you transform your relationship with yourself and create a life of genuine meaning & well being."
The Depression Recovery Program
My depression recovery program is structured yet flexible so we can shape it to suit your needs and situation. We'll start out with weekly sessions of 60-90 minutes, then gradually drop the frequency as you build confidence in your recovery. A full program usually runs for 1-3 months, dependent on your commitment and needs. A typical program is outlined below.
This program is not directed by me, but led by you. You're in charge of your recovery and I support and respect the way you want to travel the path to wellness.
Assess & plan
1-2 sessions
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Evaluate your depression symptoms & history
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Review contributing factors & triggers
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Identify existing strengths & resources
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Develop personalised recovery goals & a plan
Core recovery work
2-4 sessions
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Build skills for managing depressive symptoms
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Identify & transform negative thought patterns
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Address underlying issues contributing to depression
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Create healthy routines & support systems
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Develop emotional regulation strategies
Maintain & grow
2-4 sessions
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Reinforce new habits & thought patterns
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Develop long-term tools for preventing relapse
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Build resilience to fight future stressors
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Plan for ongoing growth & wellbeing
Benefits & outcomes
Unlike approaches that create a dependency on medication or therapy, my goal is to help you develop your own internal resources and external support systems so you can maintain your well being independently.
Clients who complete my depression recovery program typically experience:
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Significant reduction or elimination of depressive symptoms
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Improved mood stability & resilience
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Better sleep, energy, & concentration
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Healthier relationships & communication
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Enhanced self-awareness & compassion
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Greater sense of purpose & meaning
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Practical strategies for preventing future depressive episodes
Book an appointment
Appointments are available at my private practice in Hamilton, Newcastle or online via a secure Zoom session at these times:
In person: Tue, Wed, Thu 8.00am - 6.30pm
Zoom: Mon, Wed, Thu 8.00am - 6.30pm
Whether we meet online or in-person, I will provide a confidential, safe, non-judgemental space for us to work together.
Testimonial
Rob's approach was different. He didn't just want to hear my problems - he wanted to help me solve them! The deep mind therapy was truly transformative. It helped me heal parts of myself I didn't even know were part of the problem.
Thanks to Rob, I now challenge my negative thoughts, and see myself and my life differently. I still have difficult days, but I also have tools to work my way through them. For the first time in years, I’m hopeful, and can see a happy future.
Megan
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Are your services for young people too?Yes. I help people of any age - teenagers, young adults, or older. If you’re a parent or carer looking for support for a younger person, feel free to reach out to me too. The same applies to gender, sexual orientation, nationality or background. My practice is open to and respectful of everyone.
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Can I do sessions online?Yes. I offer both in-person sessions in Newcastle, NSW, and online counselling for clients across Australia and internationally. You can choose what works best for your comfort, schedule, and location.
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What is hypnosis and how does it help?Hypnotherapy is a gentle approach that helps you relax deeply so your subconscious mind is more open to new, helpful thoughts, and behaviours and suggestions. It can support you in changing habits, cravings, and how you see yourself — without force or fear.
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Do I have to take medication as part of your therapy?No. My approach is holistic and medication-free. We focus on natural methods, including talk therapy, life coaching, and hypnosis, to support your recovery. If you are on medication or working with a doctor, we can work together alongside that support.
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How long does therapy treatment take?Recovery is a personal journey. For some, changes happen quickly; for others, it takes as long as is exactly right for you.’s a slower process. My job is to walk beside you and help you stay on track. Whether you’re early in your journey or have tried other forms of treatment, we’ll build a plan that works for you.
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What is Subconscious Dynamic™ therapy?Subconscious Dynamics™ is a therapeutic approach that combines modern hypnosis with neuro-linguistic programming (NLP), to access the powerful subconscious mind. The subconscious mind is a powerful and neutral beast. By combining hypnosis with Subconscious Dynamic™ therapy we can bypass the overthinking conscious mind and delve into your deep mind, where you can rapidly address and rewire the brain for lasting recovery, growth, or change.
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What does 'holistic therapy' mean?Holistic therapy means we look at all parts of your life—your body, thoughts, feelings, relationships, and even your purpose. Addiction, poor mental health and self-identity issues affect everything, so healing and growth should involve everything too.
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Is this service just for drug and alcohol addiction?Not at all. While I provide drug and alcohol counselling for people struggling with drug abuse, and alcohol misuse, or any form of substance addiction, I also support people to resolve and eliminate other unhelpful compulsive behaviours and coping strategies - like gambling, emotional eating and screen addiction. If something in your life feels out of control, we can work on it together.
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What are signs of alcohol abuse or alcohol dependence?Needing more drinks to feel the same effect Drinking alone or in secret Feeling anxious or irritable without alcohol Missing work, arguments with loved ones, or health issues caused by drinking Feeling guilt or shame after drinking—but still continuing Relying on alcohol rather than enjoying it
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How do I get a loved one with addiction issues to seek help?This is a common situation. Start by approaching the person with care not criticism. Avoid confronting them when they’re under the influence, or calling them an ‘addict’. Share your concerns gently and focus on how their behaviour is affecting their health, relationships, or life goals. Offer support, not shame. If they’re not keen to commit to therapy, you can suggest doing one of my 15 minute free consultation calls to “get things off their chest,” or attending just one session. You could offer to join them if that makes them feel more comfortable, or even to book the appointment. Ultimately, you can’t force someone to change—but you can plant a seed, and be there when they’re ready. Many of my clients who once denied needing addiction help, came to me later, and made powerful, lasting changes when the timing was right for them.
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Can I get drug and alcohol help online?Yes. I offer online drug and alcohol help across Australia, as well as in-person sessions in Newcastle, NSW. Online therapy is private, flexible, and a great option if you live regionally or prefer support from home.
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What happens if I relapse?Relapse is common during recovery, and it doesn’t mean you’ve failed. We’ll use it as a learning moment and adjust your plan to make it even stronger. You’ll have tools in place to bounce back and keep moving forward.
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How long does recovery take?Everyone’s journey is different. Some people feel better quickly, while others need more time. Recovery is a process, not a quick fix—but with the right support, you can expect steady, meaningful progress.
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Is this a rehabilitation program?While this is not a residential rehabilitation facility, my one-on-one therapy offers a personalised recovery pathway that is ideal for people looking for addiction help without going into full-time rehab. It’s flexible, private, and tailored to your needs.
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When does alcohol intake become an addiction?In Australia, drinking is a big part of our social culture. At barbecues, parties, even casual get-togethers, it’s common to see almost everyone with a drink and an esky full of alcohol nearby. But alcohol intake can become an alcohol addiction when it starts to negatively affect your health, work, relationships or wellbeing — and when you feel like you can’t stop, even if you want to. Don’t wait until things get worse — early support can help you take control and stop the habit before it becomes a serious problem.
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Why do you feel depressed or anxious?Depression and anxiety are the brain’s response to long-term stress, trauma, or imbalance. In depression, areas of the brain that regulate mood and motivation—like the prefrontal cortex and amygdala—can fall out of sync. This reduces important brain chemicals like serotonin and dopamine, making it harder to feel joy, energy or connection. In anxiety, the brain’s “alarm system” becomes overactive. The amygdala can stay on high alert, even when there’s no real danger. This can make ordinary situations feel overwhelming and exhausting.
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What are the signs and symptoms of depression?Some examples are listed here, but see our How to Tell If You’re Experiencing Depression blog post for full details: Ongoing low mood or irritability Withdrawing from people or activities Feeling worthless or guilty Headaches, stomach pain, or other physical symptoms Thoughts of self-harm or suicide