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Dr Nicola Santarossa

Dr Nicola Santarossa

Counsellor | Psychotherapist
Specialised support for 
Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Childhood Trauma, Depression, Substance Use Disorders

Hi there, my name is Nic. Being a registered counsellor and psychotherapist is more than just a profession to me —it is my true calling. I found this path after discovering that my previous careers, though rewarding in their own ways, didn’t quite fit. I’ve been a full-time dancer and a medical doctor—two fields that represent the extremes of art and science. These experiences have uniquely prepared me for the intersection where therapy lives: a balance of both an art and a science. Throughout our sessions, I’ll listen attentively to your story and ask thoughtful questions—though you are never obliged to answer anything that doesn’t feel right in the moment. I bring openness, curiosity, and a non-judgmental presence, while also being direct and assertive when needed. Together, we’ll explore your core values and beliefs to see whether they still serve you, especially in light of any recent changes in your life. I’ll gently challenge you to reflect not only on your present circumstances, but also on your broader sense of purpose. My goal is to empower you—to help you see that even if you’ve made similar choices in the past, each moment offers a fresh opportunity to choose again. Every decision you make is another small step toward the person you want to become. After our sessions, I may offer resources or suggestions that you can choose to explore at your own pace. These are not obligations, but tools tailored to support your growth based on what you have shared with me. I will hold belief in you, especially during times when it may be hard for you to hold it for yourself. That kind of support made a difference in my own life during a time of turmoil and it helped me move toward dreams I never thought possible. I am a published author in several peer-reviewed journals in the fields of tropical medicine, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) in adolescence and the benefits of psychedelics in “treatment-resistant” mental illness. I am a member of the Australian Counselling Association, The Viktor Frankl Institute of Australia, Mind Medicine Australia and I am a recognised provider for a number of professional organisations listed below. In my spare time I enjoy travelling, cooking, gaming, listening to music, op shopping, writing, creating dried flower arrangements, rainforest getaways and day trips to the beach. Because it’s not something I particularly enjoy until afterwards, I approach exercise with discipline - just like cleaning the house and doing the washing - because all evidence has found that it improves physical and mental wellbeing. If chosen to be your confidant, I consider it a privilege that I take seriously. I look forward to walking alongside you as you work toward achieving your greatest potential. If you can't see any suitable availability, please reach out to arrange an alternative day and time. As I'm working from home largely, I can be quite flexible with consultation bookings and timings.

I specialise in...
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Stress Management
  • Motivation
  • Coping Skills
  • Childhood Development
  • Identity Issues
  • Chronic Illness
  • Self-harm
  • Emotional regulation
I focus on...
  • Adult
  • Men
  • Women
  • Older Adults
  • Adolescents
  • Terminal Illnesses
  • Neurodiversity
  • Queer / LGBTQIA+
  • Non-monogamous
My services & fees
Consultation (60 minutes)
$280
Consultation (30 minutes)
$180
Self Care Plan (30 minutes)
$120
Burnout Prevention Plan (30 minutes)
$120
Qualifications

Bachelor of Medicine,Bachelor of Surgery,Master of Counselling

Therapy Types
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
  • Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
  • Mindfulness-Based Therapy
  • Trauma-informed
Languages
English
Session Types
ISO 27001 Certified
SUPPORTED BY
nib foundation