- Carl Jung
Miss Carla Van Der Poel
Psychotherapist
Carla V.D. Poel Psychotherapy
Rose Bay, Sydney NSW 2029
In Person + Telehealth
Philosophy & Vision
I am passionate about working with individuals and couples to help them break free from patterns keeping them stuck. Using a systems lens and psychodynamic approach, I focus on fostering relational self-awareness and helping clients create meaningful, long-lasting change. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and tailored to each client’s unique journey toward growth and healing.
I offer a highly personalised and compassionate approach to mental health. Every client I work with receives my full attention, care, and commitment. My practice is grounded in advanced clinical training as well as the Gottman Method for couples and draws on both systems and psychodynamic frameworks.
Whether you’re seeking help as an individual, couple, or a family. I offer flexible in-person and teletherapy options, making it easy to access tailored support that suits you. My goal is to help you achieve meaningful, lasting change.
Background
Before moving into private practice in early 2024, I spent over 15 years supporting families and children in community-based early childhood and family services. This experience deepened my understanding of how our earliest relationships and environments shape us, and inspired my commitment to helping people build healthier, more fulfilling connections.
After completing my degree in Psychological Sciences, I was drawn to a more relational approach to mental health. I went on to complete a Masters in Psychotherapy, focusing on psychodynamic and systems frameworks, and furthered my training with the Gottman Method for couples.
Services
I enjoy working with both individuals and couples, supporting clients as they navigate life’s challenges. I offer sessions in person in my private and cozy office, or online to help accommodate busy schedules. I am available weekdays and evenings.
Quality Provision
I am committed to providing high-quality, ethical, and client-centred therapy. I maintain my professional skills through ongoing training and clinical supervision, ensuring my practice reflects current best evidence and ethical standards. I tailor my approach to each client’s unique needs, fostering a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard and respected. Regular feedback and clear treatment goals guide our work together, helping to promote meaningful and lasting change.
Areas of Special Interest
Accreditations
- Bachelor of Psychological Science - 2022 - UNE
- Postgraduate Certificate in Counselling - 2023 - Torrens University
- Masters in Counselling and Psychotherapy - 2024 - Australian College of Applied Psychology
Modalities
Attachment Theory - Conversational Model - DBT - Emotionally Focused Therapy - Existential - Gottman Method - Internal Family Systems - Psychodynamic - Somatic Psychotherapy - Systems Theory - Trauma-Informed
Therapy Approach
My approach to psychotherapy is collaborative, compassionate, and tailored to each client’s unique journey. I draw on the Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and psychodynamic principles to help individuals and couples build stronger relationships and lasting change. Together, we explore patterns, foster relational self-awareness, and develop practical tools for growth. Whether you’re seeking support for anxiety, relationship challenges, or personal insight, I offer a safe, non-judgmental space for meaningful exploration and healing.
Professional Associations
- Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia
Practice Locations
676 Old South Head Rd
Rose Bay NSW 2029
bondi junction NSW 2022
Fees & Insurance
I offer a free 15 minute consultation, where we can talk through my approach, answer any questions you have decide if it feels like a good fit.
Payment Options
Bank transfer
PayPal
Contact Carla
Please contact me to book a 15 minute free initial consult
A conversation with Carla Van Der Poel
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I was drawn to psychotherapy by a deep interest in attachment theory and the ways our early experiences shape our present lives and relationships. I find it inspiring that, while we cannot always change others or our circumstances, we can choose to understand ourselves more deeply and create meaningful change from within. This belief in personal empowerment and the transformative potential of self awareness is at the heart of why I chose this profession
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My professional development has been shaped by existential and psychodynamic psychotherapy, as well as Emotionally Focused Therapy . Existential therapy grounds my work in the search for meaning, personal responsibility, and authentic living. Psychodynamic principles help me explore how early experiences and unconscious patterns shape present feelings and relationships. EFT, rooted in attachment theory, has deepened my appreciation for the role of emotions and secure connections in healing and lasting change
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I am especially interested in how people find meaning and growth by making the unconscious conscious and developing relational self-awareness. I believe that understanding the patterns and experiences that shape us, often outside our immediate awareness, can unlock profound personal transformation and resilience. I’m passionate about helping individuals and couples explore these deeper layers, so they can create more authentic connections, break free from unhelpful cycles, and experience greater well-being and fulfillment
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I use a blend of evidence-based methods tailored to each client’s needs. My practice draws on psychodynamic psychotherapy to explore underlying patterns and unconscious processes, as well as existential therapy to support meaning making and authentic living. For couples, I incorporate the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy to strengthen emotional bonds and improve communication. I also use a systems lens and relational self awareness to help clients understand how their relationships and environments influence their wellbeing.
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Progress looks different for everyone, and it really depends on where you’re at and what you want to work on. Some people start to feel a bit of relief or new understanding within the first few sessions, while for others, it might take a little more time as we build trust and dig a bit deeper. I like to check in regularly to see how you’re feeling about the process, so we can celebrate the small wins and adjust things if needed. The goal is to create a space where you feel supported and notice positive changes, even if they come in small steps.
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Yes, definitely! Doing ongoing personal therapy and self-exploration is something I really value. It keeps me grounded, reminds me how far I’ve come, and shows me there’s always more room to grow. Plus, it gives me a real sense of what it’s like to be on the other side of the therapy room, which helps me connect with my clients in a more genuine way.
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I absolutely love my job. Getting to witness people move through real challenges and growth is incredibly rewarding. It’s a privilege to have a front row seat to the incredible strength and resilience of the human spirit. Every client’s journey reminds me just how powerful and hopeful change can be.
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Yes, absolutely! I didn’t become a therapist because I have it all figured out, I’m human too, and I definitely have my “bad hair” days. Life isn’t a straight line and we all face challenges at different times, including your therapist. And honestly, most of those funny memes about therapists? They’re pretty spot on! It’s part of what helps me stay grounded and connected to the real ups and downs we all go through.