Psychodynamic Interpersonal Psychotherapy for Addicted Substance Users
Psychdynamic Interpersonal Psychotherapy or the "Conversational Model" is a useful model for supporting clients with substance use, addiction and mental health concerns.
Francesca Palazzolo
Registered Counselor
“I am a person centered counsellor and psychotherapist working in the humanistic tradition. I use various approaches including ACT, CBT & EMDR. I work with people from all backgrounds and concerns such as anxiety, depression, PTSD and addictions including behavioural. I am also registered with Victim's Services NSW.”
About Me
As a humanistic counsellor and psychotherapist, I offer a collaborative space where we explore your unique experiences. We can gently unpack what's holding you back. I blend person-centred understanding with practical tools from ACT and CBT. This approach helps you gain clarity, connect with your values, and find practical ways forward. I aim to support those seeking deeper self-understanding alongside actionable strategies for change.
Approach
Whether you're grappling with addiction or seeking mindfulness techniques, I am here to help you navigate your path. With a focus on humanistic therapy, I integrate person-centred methods with ACT and CBT to address your concerns. In our sessions, available both in-person in Toongabbie, New South Wales, and through online therapy, we?ll explore your unique experiences to uncover what's holding you back. Together, we'll work towards clarity and healing, grounding our journey in empathy and actionable strategies for change
Contact Francesca
Ask a quick question or arrange a time to meet.
Basic Information
Services
Generalist counselling and addiction counselling.
Services Offered:
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Counseling
A form of talk therapy providing a safe, confidential space to explore feelings, thoughts, and behaviours with a trained professional.
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Trauma Counseling
Counselling specifically for people affected by traumatic events, focused on processing what happened and reducing symptoms like flashbacks and hypervigilance.
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Free Consultation
A no-cost initial session to meet the therapist, discuss needs, and decide whether they are the right fit before committing.
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Mindfulness
The practice of paying deliberate attention to the present moment without judgement, used to reduce stress and increase awareness of automatic reactions.
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Online Therapy
Therapy sessions conducted over video call, phone, or secure messaging, using the same professional methods delivered remotely.
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Psychotherapy
In-depth therapeutic work that explores patterns in thoughts, emotions, and relationships to produce lasting psychological change.
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ACT (Acceptance & Commitment Therapy)
A form of therapy that teaches acceptance of difficult thoughts and feelings while guiding action aligned with personal values.
Learn more about ACT (Acceptance & Commitment Therapy) - •
Addiction Counseling
Counselling specifically focused on substance use or behavioural addictions, addressing the psychological drivers and patterns of dependence.
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CBT
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, a structured, evidence-based approach that identifies and changes unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviours.
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EMDR
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing, a therapy that uses guided eye movements to help the brain process and integrate traumatic memories.
Learn more about EMDR
Works With:
- •Adults
Area of Expertise
Scope of Practice:
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Abuse
Emotional, physical, or sexual mistreatment by another person that causes lasting psychological harm and disrupts a person's sense of safety.
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Addiction
A compulsive dependence on a substance or behaviour, such as alcohol, drugs, or gambling, that causes harmful consequences to health, relationships, or daily life.
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Sex Addiction
A pattern of compulsive sexual behaviour that feels out of control and causes harm to one's relationships, work, or well-being.
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Anger
An intense emotional response to perceived threat, injustice, or frustration that, when persistent or uncontrolled, can damage relationships and well-being.
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Anxiety
Persistent worry, nervousness, or fear that is disproportionate to the situation and interferes with daily functioning.
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Personal Development
The ongoing process of self-awareness, self-improvement, and reaching one's potential, pursued not because something is wrong but to live more fully.
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Relationship Issues
Difficulties in romantic relationships, including communication problems, trust breakdowns, conflict patterns, or uncertainty about the relationship's future.
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Stress / Burnout
The body and mind's response to prolonged or excessive demands. When sustained, it can lead to emotional exhaustion, detachment, and reduced functioning (burnout).
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Grief & Loss
The emotional, physical, and psychological response to the death of a loved one or another significant loss.
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Online Therapy
Therapy sessions conducted over video call, phone, or secure messaging, using the same professional methods delivered remotely.
Learn more about Online Therapy
Professional Title:
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Registered Counselor
A counselor who is formally registered with a professional or regulatory body.
Qualifications
Australian College of Applied Psychology
Australian College of Applied Psychology
Registrations
Psychotherapy and Counseling Federation of Australia (PACFA)
Counseling
