Meet Zahra

Personal Insights and Therapeutic Approach

In the past, I have used this section of my website to tell you all about my experience, the universities I attended, and the many certificates and training I have completed over the years. Reflecting on that now, I realise that none of these things are quite as important as who I am as a person (but don’t worry, scroll to the bottom and you will see all that information listed too).

Although my role as a Psychologist is one that I cherish deeply, what truly contributes to my effectiveness as a healer is my own lived experience with mental health. I am both a client and a clinician. I have experienced periods of deep darkness and moments of true flourishing and empowerment. The therapies I provide as a Psychologist are the same therapies I have embraced in my own personal recovery.

Being diagnosed with Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Depression, Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD), and ADHD has given me a profound understanding and appreciation for the immense challenges these conditions present and how to overcome them. I know firsthand the gruelling yet life-changing journey one must travel to reconnect with their truest potential.

The truth is, I don’t claim to be an expert on your life—only you are. I hold the privileged position of sitting in your passenger seat, armed with a map, a compass, and a diverse set of tools. I can passionately guide, support, and aid you in your journey, but I am not the one doing the gut-wrenching work that is sometimes required as part of your recovery and self-discovery. As your therapist, I will be your coach, your teammate, your biggest cheerleader, and your number one fan.

I am excited for you to begin this next chapter of your life. It’s beyond brave to face vulnerability in your search for greater meaning and a life more fully lived.

You have survived long enough—now, it’s time to thrive.

As promised here are my credentials, education and training:

• Honours in Psychology | University of New England

• Graduate Diploma in Psychology | University of New England

• Bachelor of Medical Science | University of New South Wales

• Neurofeedback | Moshe Pearl, Neurofeedback International Academy

• EMDR Association of Australia Accredited EMDR Training - Advanced | Graham Taylor

• EMDR Association of Australia Accredited EMDR Training - Basic | Graham Taylor

• Flash Technique | Graham Taylor

• Schema Therapy: Self-Practice and Self-Reflection for Therapists | Schema Therapy Training

• Schema Therapy Level 2 | Schema Therapy Training

• Schema Therapy Level 1 | Schema Therapy Training

• Massed Prolonged Exposure | Phoenix Australia

• Cognitive Processing Therapy | Phoenix Australia

• CBT Fundamentals | The Beck Institute

• CBT for Depression | The Beck Institute

• CBT for Anxiety | The Beck Institute

• CBT for personality disorders | The Beck Institute

• Dialectical Behaviour Therapy | Psychwire

• Compassion Focused Therapy | The Mindful Path

• Motivational Interviewing | Dr Stan Steindl

• International Certificate in Traumatic Studies | Trauma Research Foundation (US)