- Albert Camus
Ms Karen Potter
Psychologist, Psychotherapist
M(Psych), BSW, Grad Dip Infant-Parent Mental Health
Camberwell, VIC 3124
In Person + Telehealth
Philosophy & Vision
I am a psychotherapist, Registered Psychologist and Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with nearly 30 years of clinical experience and training. In addition to individual and couple psychotherapy I also have specialised training and experience in the areas of perinatal, parenting, trauma, grief & loss, and end of life.
From early in my career I became keenly interested in the infant-parent relationship, perinatal phase, child development, relationships and transitions, including the final transition, end of life. I have a deep understanding of the significance of relationships throughout our lives, not only those between individuals but also the relationship one has with his/her self and life. I enjoy working with people to facilitate greater self-awareness and capacities.
Background
I began my career as a counsellor in 1998 and have worked in various organisations including: Northern Centre Against Sexual Assault (Melbourne), Royal Women's Hospital (NICU, SCU & high risk antenatal clinics), Melbourne IVF, Sydney IVF (in Lismore, NSW), the Centre Against Sexual Assault (Lismore, NSW).
I have been working in private practice since 2006. Alongside my private practice, I currently work for Gidget Foundation Australia.
Services
I offer individuals and couples the important process of deepening and enhancing their understanding of and relationships with themselves, others and their lives. As well as offering appropriate strategies, practices and tools to facilitate this.
I am deeply committed to supporting perinatal clients (from the idea of a baby, through conception (or not), pregnancy, birthing and into the postnatal period. This includes birth trauma, post-natal anxiety and depression and perinatal loss.
I also work with parents to enhance their relationships and bond with their infants and/or children (of any age).
Additionally, I provide clinical supervision to practitioners in organisations and who work in private practice.
Areas of Special Interest
Accreditations
- Bachelor of Social Work - 1998 - La Trobe University
- Graduate Diploma Infant Mental Health - 2002 - Melbourne University
- Master of Psychology (Educational & Developmental) - 2017 - Monash University
- Perinatal Infant Mental Health Intensive - 2020 - Centre for Perinatal Psychology
Modalities
Attachment Theory - CBT - Developmental - Dream Work - Journal Therapy - Marriage and Family - Meditation - Mindfulness - Object Relations - Psychodynamic - Short-term Psychodynamic - Solution Oriented - Trauma-Informed
Therapy Approach
As a relational based therapist, I predominantly have a psychodynamic perspective with individuals and couples. In addition, I draw on attachment, developmental and trauma approaches as well as utilise CBT, mindfulness, parenting and problem solving techniques as needed.
A psychodynamic approach involves exploring issues, experiences and relationships more deeply. The aim is to develop greater self-awareness and understanding into oneself (thoughts, emotions and behaviours) and their relationship patterns. This method incorporates what emerges within the therapeutic relationship, 'bringing to life' some of the personal and relational issues.
Professional Associations
- Australian Association of Social Workers
Practice Locations
The Camberwell Collective
790 Burke Road
Camberwell VIC 3124
Appointments
Appointments are available Tuesday to Thursdays each week.
Fees & Insurance
$220 for individuals and $240 for couples.
Medicare and Private Health F
50min sessions.
Clinical Supervision sessions are $220 plus GST.
Sessions are 60 minutes.
A sliding scale of $180 for individuals and Clinical Supervision can be discussed.
Payment Options
Cash, electronic transfer or EFTPOS is available
Contact Karen
Please contact me to make an appointment
A conversation with Karen Potter
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A strong interest in understanding my own and others' internal worlds and relationships as well as a desire to help others in their lives.
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Psychoanalytic approach has been the strongest influence both professionally and personally. I have undertaken an analysis myself as well as have Supervision with a Psychoanalyst. In addition, Buddhist and non-duality type spiritual philosophies have been important.
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Developing a deeper and stronger connection with ones soul or inner truth and inner life as well as with external nature and others.
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Mostly the underlying method is psychoanalytic or psychodynamic, however as people are so very different, where they're at when they come in and what is needed along the way can vary greatly. I enjoy working with dreams, imaginations and somatic issues and may bring in mindfulness, nature-based and practical strategies or practices as needed.
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Only the client will know this and it varies greatly as there are a multitude of factors that influence 'progress'.
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Therapy has increased my self-awareness and ability to self-reflect enormously and this has enabled all my relationships in life to be stronger and deeper. I have a stronger connection to nature and have a deeper understanding of the preciousness of all life and the connection between all humans and the natural world.
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Having the very special opportunity to be with people on a part of their journeys in life and to see them grow over time in themselves and be more connected to themselves, their families and their life.
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I feel incredibly fortunate and grateful to be doing something I love completely and to have a very balanced work-private life.
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Not having enough importance and respect placed on the natural world, the environment and animals.
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There are so many but I love 'Women who run with the wolves'