Trauma | Relationships | Intimacy

Supporting adults and couples across the Southern Highlands navigating trauma, anxiety, relationship challenges and intimacy concerns — with warmth, curiosity, and evidence-based care at a pace that feels right for you.

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A calm, softly lit counselling room with a linen sofa, armchair and pot plants

Trauma-informed

Safety and choice come first. Nothing moves faster than you want it to.

In person or online

In-person appointments across the Southern Highlands, plus secure video sessions online across Australia.

Accredited & supervised

Accredited practitioner working within professional ethical frameworks.

“We don't heal in isolation - we heal in connection.”

Esther Perel

Services

How I can help

Whatever brings you here, we start with what feels most pressing and build from there.

Trauma & PTSD

Gentle, paced support for single-incident and complex trauma, so the past has less hold on the present.

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EMDR Therapy

An evidence-based approach that helps distressing memories lose their intensity and settle into the past.

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Anxiety & Stress

Practical and reflective work for worry, panic, burnout and the pressure of carrying too much.

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Relationship Counselling

Support for couples and individuals navigating conflict, disconnection, trust and change.

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Sexual Wellbeing & Intimacy

A safe, compassionate space to explore intimacy, desire and sexual concerns - without judgement, shame or embarrassment.

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Anna Allison, Accredited Mental Health Social Worker
About

Meet Anna - A calm, grounded presence for the hard conversations.

Seeking support can feel like a big step, and finding the right therapist is an important part of that process. I want our sessions to feel like a space where you can be yourself, feel genuinely heard, and know that you don't have to have everything figured out before you begin. We'll work through it together.

I'm an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker based in the Southern Highlands, with more than 10 years' experience supporting individuals, couples, children and families. My approach is warm, collaborative and trauma-informed, and therapy is always tailored to your unique needs. I draw on a range of evidence-based approaches, including EMDR, to help you better understand your experiences, strengthen your relationships and create meaningful, lasting change.

Over the years, I've become particularly passionate about understanding how trauma shapes the way we see ourselves, connect with others, and experience closeness and intimacy. I believe these parts of our lives are deeply interconnected, and it is a privilege to support people as they heal, reconnect, and create more fulfilling relationships with themselves and those around them.

I'm currently completing a Master of Science in Medicine (Sexual and Reproductive Health) at the University of Sydney, further developing my expertise in psychosexual therapy and sexual wellbeing. This allows me to support people with a broad range of concerns while bringing knowledge to conversations around intimacy and sexual wellbeing.

Wherever you're starting from, we'll work together at a pace that feels right for you.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor of Social Work — University of Sydney, 2017
  • Master of Science in Medicine (Sexual and Reproductive Health – Psychosexual Therapy) — University of Sydney, expected completion June 2027
Trained in
EMDR Emotion-Focused Therapy Cognitive Behaviour Therapy Dialectical Behaviour Therapy Cognitive Processing Therapy Sensate Focus Attachment-Based Therapy
FAQs

Questions people often ask

If yours isn't here, please just ask - no question is too small.

Can EMDR help?

For many people, yes. EMDR is one of the most well-researched and evidence-based treatments for trauma and PTSD, and it is recommended in international clinical guidelines alongside other first-line trauma therapies.

While EMDR is best known for treating trauma, research continues to show promising results for a range of other concerns, including anxiety, phobias, grief, low self-esteem and distressing life experiences when these are linked to unprocessed memories. The strongest evidence is currently for trauma and PTSD, with growing evidence supporting its use in other areas.

EMDR isn't the right approach for everyone or every stage of therapy. We'll take the time to understand your experiences and goals, and together decide whether EMDR, counselling, or a combination of both is the best fit for you.

What is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker (AMHSW)?

AMHSWs are recognised experts in the field of mental health. They work with people across the lifespan and provide a unique contribution to the mental health space through a holistic approach to working with a person. The advanced training expected of AMHSWs prepares them with the skills for working with people with very complex presentations and co-morbidities. AMHSWs meet some of the highest standards of professional regulation in Australia, overseen by the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW).

Do I need a diagnosis or a GP referral?

No. You can contact me directly — no referral or diagnosis is needed to seek support. As an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, I can provide Medicare rebates under a Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP; get in touch and we can talk through what applies to you.

Can I come for relationship work on my own?

Absolutely. Individual relationship therapy is useful when a partner isn't ready to attend, or when you're deciding what you want.

Are online sessions as effective as in person?

For most issues, research suggests yes. Online works well if you have a private space; some trauma work benefits from being in the room, and we can decide together.

What if I don't know what to say?

That's very common, and part of my job. We can start with what's happening this week, or with the fact that talking feels difficult.

What happens if I need to cancel?

Please give 24 hours' notice where you can. Cancellations inside that window are charged at the full session fee.

What are your fees?

Individual sessions are $210 for 50 minutes.
Couple counselling sessions are $230 for 50 minutes.

Fees must be paid at the time of the appointment, and the Medicare rebate (if applicable) will be processed at the same time.

Rebates are also available for the following health funds - HCF, Medibank, Bupa, Teacher Health Fund, Doctors Health, St Lukes Health, Australian Regional Health (ARHG)

Still wondering if this is for you?

Ask me anything
Writing

Notes from the room

Longer answers to the questions that come up most often in sessions.

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September 2026

How trauma affects intimacy in relationships

Two people who love each other, who want to feel close, and who keep bumping into an invisible wall neither of them quite understands. Often that wall has a name.

Read the post →

Ready to talk?

Book a free 15-minute consultation to see if we're a good fit - no pressure, no obligation. In person and online appointments are both available.

hello@annaallison.com.au 0400 845 812 Medicare provider number: 3187792B
© 2026 Anna Allison