Ms Laura Alfred

Philosophy & Vision

I believe therapy should provide a safe, thoughtful and collaborative space where people feel genuinely heard and understood. My approach is grounded in curiosity, compassion and respect for each person’s unique history, relationships and life experience. While therapy can help relieve immediate distress and symptoms related to anxiety, depression or overwhelm, I also see it as an opportunity for deeper self-understanding and lasting change.

Background

I have more than 25 years of experience working with adults and adolescents across a range of emotional, relational and psychological difficulties. Before becoming a psychologist, I completed a Masters degree in Sociology and worked as a university lecturer, experiences that deepened my understanding of human relationships, power dynamics, culture and identity.
Having worked internationally and experienced immigration personally, I bring an appreciation of the emotional complexity involved in transition, belonging, attachment and cultural adjustment.
I have worked in private practice, schools and hospitals overseas, and in private practice in Sydney since 2011.

Services

Therapy Approach

My approach to therapy is relational, psychodynamic and collaborative. I aim to create a safe and reflective space where clients can explore emotions, relationships and patterns that may be contributing to distress or limiting their sense of fulfilment. I believe lasting change often comes through developing greater self-awareness, emotional insight and understanding of how past experiences continue to shape present difficulties.
Alongside deeper exploratory work, I integrate practical evidence-based strategies where appropriate, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), mindfulness and somatic approaches. Therapy is always tailored to the individual needs, goals and pace of each client.