Dominique Smajstr
Relationship Therapist, Psychodynamic Psychotherapist
Sydney Counselling
Surry Hills, Sydney NSW 2010
In Person Consultations
Philosophy & Vision
I offer a space where thoughtful reflection, emotional depth, and relational understanding can unfold. I work with adult individuals and couples navigating emotional conflicts, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and deeper psychological concerns. I see therapy as a collaborative process—an opportunity to explore patterns shaped by the past, develop greater emotional awareness, and move toward more authentic ways of being. Whether you are seeking individual therapy or support in your relationship, I offer a respectful, non-judgemental environment where all parts of you are welcome.
Background
My work in private practice is grounded in over seven years of experience across public and private mental health settings, including hospitals, community services, and therapeutic programs. I have supported individuals and couples facing emotional, relational, and psychological challenges—such as depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, grief & loss, and attachment difficulties. I continue to work one day a week in a private hospital setting, supporting clients with layered mental health and emotional challenges alongside my private practice working with individuals and couples.
Services
Quality Provision
Clinical supervision with accredited supervisors trained in psychodynamic, systems, and relational models and ongoing professional development and education
Areas of Special Interest
Accreditations
- Bachelor of Counselling Psychology - 2018 - Australian College of Applied Psychology
- Graduate Diploma Couple & Family Therapy - 2019 - Australian Institute of Social Relations
- Certificate in Psychodynamic Counselling - 2022 - Mandala Community Counselling Service
- Certificate in The Developmental Model of Couples - 2021 - The Couples Institute
Modalities
Developmental - Person Centred - Psychodynamic - Systems Theory - Trauma-Informed
Therapy Approach
My approach integrates psychodynamic, relational, developmental, and systems perspectives to support both individuals and couples. With individuals, we explore how early experiences influence your inner world, emotions, and relationships, helping you develop greater self-awareness and resilience. In couples therapy, we focus on relational patterns and dynamics shaped by each partner’s history and attachment styles, working to improve communication, deepen connection, and navigate challenges together. Across both, I provide a safe, compassionate space to explore feelings, understand patterns, and foster meaningful change.
Professional Associations
- Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia - Clinical
- International Association for Relational Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy
Practice Locations
7/596 Crown Street
Surry Hills NSW 2010
906/185 Elizabeth Street
Sydney NSW 2000
Appointments
I currently offer sessions on Mondays in Sydney CBD and Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays in Surry Hills with appointments available during the day and early evenings.
Fees & Insurance
Sessions are $160 for individuals and $220 for couples. No Medicare or health fund rebates apply. I offer a free 10-minute phone consultation for new clients to help you get a sense of whether I am the right fit for you.
Payment Options
Card or bank transfer
Contact Dominique
Please contact me to make an appointment
A conversation with Dominique Smajstr
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My path into psychotherapy began with my own experience as a client. That work deeply impacted me and affirmed my values of curiosity, empathy, and emotional depth. I’ve always been drawn to the complexity of human experience—how we form relationships, make sense of our inner worlds, and carry forward the imprints of our past. With a naturally intuitive style and a longstanding interest in emotions and connection, becoming a therapist felt like a meaningful and natural extension of who I am. It’s a privilege to now offer others the kind of thoughtful, attuned support that shaped my own journey.
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I’m mostly influenced by philosophical traditions that value depth, meaning, and the complexity of human experience. Psychodynamic and relational philosophies have shaped my belief in the unconscious, the lasting impact of early relationships, and the healing potential of the therapeutic relationship. I’m also drawn to existential philosophy, which speaks to our longing for meaning, our freedom and responsibility, and how we navigate uncertainty and change. Jungian ideas have stayed with me too—especially the sense that our inner life holds symbolic and spiritual depth. When working with couples, I often draw on developmental and systems thinking, exploring how we grow in connection with others and in relationship to ourselves.
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I am deeply interested in the health of the whole person—mind, body, soul, and psyche. For me, the human journey is a lifelong process of unfolding and becoming, a kind of individuation where we integrate both the conscious and unconscious parts of ourselves. I think we are all searching, in different ways, for authentic meaning and deeper emotional connection with others. I hold a spiritual view of this work, in that I believe healing and growth reach beyond just our thoughts and feelings—they involve the whole of who we are. And ultimately, I see therapy as a space where people can move toward a life that feels more grounded, purposeful, and connected.
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Every client’s experience is different, but many begin to feel a sense of progress when they start to notice more space between their thoughts and reactions—when they can reflect rather than react, name their feelings, or relate to themselves with greater compassion. For some, it’s the relief of finally feeling heard; for others, it’s the slow unfolding of insight and clarity over time. Progress isn’t always linear, but it often becomes apparent as emotional patterns start to shift and relationships—both with others and with oneself—begin to feel different. I see therapy as a process that builds over time through trust, reflection, and emotional connection.
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What I value most about being a therapist is the privilege of witnessing people in their most honest, vulnerable moments—and being able to offer a steady, attuned presence as they begin to understand themselves more deeply. I find meaning in the quiet shifts: when someone begins to relate differently to their emotions, finds new clarity in a relationship, or takes a step toward a more authentic life. I am continually moved by the courage it takes to sit with pain, to reflect, and to grow. Being able to walk alongside someone in that process feels both humbling and profoundly human.
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Oh, definitely — therapists have their bad hair days! Sometimes it feels like my hair has a mind of its own, much like our thoughts and emotions. Luckily, just like in therapy, a little patience, a sense of humour, and maybe a quick fix (hello, hairspray!) usually do the trick. It’s a good reminder that imperfection is part of being human — and that’s perfectly okay.