What is Gestalt therapy?

Gestalt therapy is a relational, present-focused approach to psychotherapy that helps you become more aware of your thoughts, feelings and patterns, so you can create meaningful change from the inside out. Rather than only learning coping strategies, we slow down and explore what's happening in your experience right now: your emotions, your body and your relationships.

I work relationally, which means we can also explore our therapeutic relationship and how it may mirror the relationships in your life. Many people come to me after trying approaches like CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy) that helped in some ways, while something deeper still called for their attention. I completed a two-year advanced clinical training in Gestalt psychotherapy at The Relational Institute of Australia (TRIA) in Sydney.

What is somatic or body-focused therapy?

Somatic, or body-focused, therapy brings your body into the conversation alongside your thoughts and emotions. I first studied yoga, mindfulness, meditation and yoga therapy, and these shape the talk therapy I practise. In sessions I invite present-moment awareness of what you're noticing in your body, emotions and thoughts.

Together we explore how the body carries what hasn't been resolved. You'll learn to notice your body's cues, understand what's happening in the moment, and create more space to respond rather than react. We move at the pace your system can hold. I never push, and I keep attuning to you.

Who do you work with?

I work with adults (I don't see children or teenagers). In particular, I work with people going through big life transitions, such as changes in career, relationships or identity, a relationship breakdown, a new baby, a job loss or a move, that have left them feeling unsettled, disconnected or unsure of who they are. I'm also passionate about helping women who people-please and find it hard to set boundaries.

My special interest areas include anxiety and emotional overwhelm, boundary setting and people-pleasing, self-esteem and self-worth, relationship issues, trauma and childhood wounds, pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood, issues in motherhood, women's health, work–life balance, and chronic pain and health issues.

What happens in the free consult?

Before we book a session, I offer a free 20-minute consult on Zoom. It's a chance for you to tell me a little about what's bringing you to therapy, ask me any questions, and see whether working together feels like a good match.

It isn't a strategy session. It's a space to see whether depth work feels right for you. Finding a therapist who feels "right" for you really matters.

How much do sessions cost?

Ongoing psychotherapy and counselling sessions are $225 for 60 minutes. Your first session is a 90-minute initial (intake) session, which costs $340. The 20-minute Zoom consult before that is free. If you're eligible, I can provide receipts so you can claim a private health rebate.

Can I claim a rebate through private health insurance or Medicare?

If you have private health insurance with extras cover, you may be able to claim a rebate. Psychotherapy and counselling sessions are covered by some private health funds, so please check with your insurer. If you're eligible, I can provide receipts for your claim. I work privately and don't offer bulk billing. Psychotherapists and counsellors aren't currently part of the Medicare rebate scheme, so I don't work under Medicare plans.

Where are you located, and do you offer online sessions?

I work both in person and online. In-person sessions are held at my practice, The Space Within, at Suite 105, 28 Chandos Street, St Leonards NSW 2065, on Sydney's Lower North Shore. Online sessions are also available.

How do I get there?

My practice, The Space Within, is at Suite 105, 28 Chandos Street, St Leonards NSW 2065, a short walk from St Leonards train station. Online sessions are also available.

How often will we meet, and how many sessions will I need?

Therapy is most effective when we meet weekly, with ongoing sessions of 60 minutes (a full hour). There's no set number of sessions. We begin with a 90-minute initial session and work at a pace that suits your needs and readiness.

Are you a registered counsellor and psychotherapist?

Yes. I'm a Registered Clinical Counsellor with PACFA (the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia), registration number 28581. Psychotherapists and counsellors are considered allied health professionals.

How do I book?

To get started, fill in the contact form, email info@kelseyhendrickson.com, or call 0419 367 530. We'll arrange a free 20-minute Zoom consult to see if we're a good fit, and then book your first 90-minute session.

What is your cancellation policy?

I understand that life happens. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please give me at least 24 hours' notice. Cancellations with less than 24 hours' notice may be charged, at my discretion.