Joanna Kirlagitsi

Qualifications & Registrations

• Master of Professional Psychology, Western Sydney University
• Bachelor of Psychology (Honours), Western Sydney University
• Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)

Professional Experience

Joanna is especially skilled in treating depressive disorders and anxiety-related disorders like generalised anxiety, social anxiety, panic disorder and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). She is also experienced in treating individuals with complex needs, including those with comorbid substance use disorders and mental disorders, as well as those with significant psychosocial issues.

Joanna works with individuals across all age groups and particularly enjoys working with teenagers and young adults.

Joanna believes we are the experts of our own lives. She therefore adopts a client-focused approach, developing and implementing interventions based on each person’s needs, preferences and treatment history.

Joanna provides a safe and non-judgemental space for people to share their experiences. She helps her clients clarify their values and goals and take action to improve their lives. During her sessions, she helps people understand why they think, feel and behave the way they do. She teaches them skills and strategies to help alleviate their distress, thus helping them change their attitudes and behaviour. By using a variety of therapeutic modalities, she enhances her clients’ mental health and wellbeing, guiding them towards rich and meaningful lives.

When she isn’t working, Joanna enjoys spending time with friends and family, going on hikes and road trips.

“ ‘The energy of the mind is the essence of life’ – Aristotle

Some people are anxious about pursuing therapy because they’re not sure what to expect and are hesitant about opening up to a stranger. It’s important to find a professional you feel comfortable with. It might take a bit of time but when you find a therapist you connect with, it will absolutely be worth it!”

– Joanna Kirlagitsi

Counselling Style

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
• Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT)
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
• Motivational Interviewing (MI)
• Solution Focused Therapy (SFT)
• Mindfulness Based Therapy (MBT)