Approach
Helping clients across Toowoomba and the Darlings Downs
“The impediment to action advances action, what stands in the way becomes the way”
- Marcus Aurelius
How I can help you
People seek help from a psychologist to cope with stressful situations, overcome addictions, manage chronic illnesses, or address obstacles that prevent them from achieving their goals. Psychologists can also assist people in working through traumatic experiences so they become less emotionally affected by these situations.
Others may wish to talk to a psychologist because they have been feeling depressed, irritable, worried, stressed or anxious. They may be experiencing an ongoing problem that is interfering with their quality of life or physical health. Some people seek support for short-term difficulties, such as feeling overwhelmed at work or study, or experiencing conflict within a relationship. Individuals who are grieving the loss of a family member may also need an independent person with whom they can share their emotional pain and heartache.
Depression
Restore your energy, motivation, and mood. Depression may tell you change isn’t possible—but help works, and you don’t have to face it alone.
Psychological focus areas
Anxiety
Support for social anxiety, health anxiety, excessive worry, generalised anxiety, panic attacks, OCD and phobias. Rediscover your sense of calm and living in the moment.
Stress
Learn how to manage stress to reduce irritability, improve sleep, and regain your health and overall life satisfaction.
Adjustment
Change is a part of life that can be overwhelming at times. Reach out for support and help manage this time.
Grief and loss
Grief and loss can follow the death of a loved one, a pet, a role, or another major life change. You don’t have to go through it alone—therapy offers support.
Trauma
Trauma at any stage of life can continue to shape how you feel, relate to others, and see yourself. You don’t have to face it alone
Low self-esteem
Learn to value yourself, practice self-kindness, and quiet your inner critic to build confidence, strengthen relationships, and increase happiness.
Personal development
Therapy can give you the tools to turn obstacles into opportunities to grow and achieve your goals.
Who I work with:
People ages 15+
Therapeutic approaches I use:
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) - how thoughts and behaviours shape our feelings.
Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) - teaches acceptance of thoughts and feelings while encouraging value-driven, purposeful action.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:
Does Painted Porch Practice Bulk Bill?
At Painted Porch Practice, we believe mental health treatment should be available to everyone. If you are experiencing financial hardship please discuss this with Damien. Painted Porch Practice does not promote itself as a bulk billing service.
Q:
What can you expect in the first appointment?
The first appointment gives you the opportunity to explain your concerns. This will allow for a treatment plan to be developed and shared with you. Informed consent, confidentiality and what you can expect therapy to look like will be outlined. At the end of the session, goals will be created.
Q:
Do I need to complete the emailed welcome pack forms before my first appointment?
To maximise time in our first session, completing these forms beforehand is encouraged. If not, these forms can be completed during your first session.
Q:
What is a Psychologist?
A Psychologist is a registered mental health professional, with a minimum of a Masters degree from university. They are trained in evidence-based practices to help people understand and manage their emotional, behavioural and psychological challenges. Unlike psychiatrists, psychologists do not prescribe medication.
Therapy with a Psychologist involves talking about the difficulties you face at a pace you are comfortable with. Therapy is tailored to your needs as you learn about yourself and the factors contributing to your challenges. You will learn new strategies to manage your thinking, actions and emotions that align with the goals you set.
Let Painted Porch Practice help you on your journey
Thank you for contacting us.We’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
We got it.
Ready to begin?
You don’t have to take the next step alone.
Reaching out is the first step.
