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Therapy
Bird on the Wing Holistic Psychology Services
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Embarking on the journey of seeking therapy for the first time can be a daunting and overwhelming experience for many individuals. The decision to open up and explore one's innermost thoughts and feelings with a stranger can evoke feelings of vulnerability, fear, and uncertainty. This is especially true for those grappling with patterns related to people-pleasing, fear of abandonment, infidelity, self-doubt, and identity struggles. Many individuals with these patterns also find it particularly challenging to prioritize their own emotional well-being. There can be a lingering fear of appearing selfish or burdensome by taking up space and discussing personal struggles. Additionally, therapy requires an investment of time, money, trust and effort and therefore all contributing to the reliance of the therapeutic relationship as is central to the effectivenesss of treatment. 

 

We understand the challenges that come with this process. However, we focus in providing a safe and supportive space for clients to navigate their emotional landscape with compassion, patience, and understanding, to help them reclaim their self-assurance and break free from restrictive thinking, overcome overwhelm and stuckness, change relationship patterns, fostering healthier, more authentic connections with themselves and others.

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Work with Taylor 

 

Hello, I’m Taylor, a psychologist and psychotherapist based on the Gold Coast (and Tweed Coast) who helps people engage deeply with their inner world. My work is grounded in psychodynamic and attachment-based theories, and I believe that at our core, there is a drive toward healing even when we’ve learned to survive by shutting that part of ourselves down.

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My Approach

I work with people who feel stuck in painful patterns. Maybe you’ve learned to suppress your anger, comply with others, or disconnect emotionally to keep relationships from breaking. Together, we’ll gently explore how these patterns formed, what they once protected, and whether they still serve you now. We’ll create a space where your internal, emotional world can be heard, named, and worked with safely.

In sessions, I bring presence, care, attunement, and honesty. We will notice not just your words, but what’s happening between us: the silences, the impulse to retreat, the relief when someone truly sees you. When misalignment comes up as it inevitably will, I don’t shy away: I lean in, repair, and name what’s happening. These moments often become the very material that leads to healing.

What We Work On

I commonly support people experiencing:

  • Anxiety, depression, and emotional regulation challenges

  • Difficult relational patterns or trauma

  • The perinatal and early parenting period — identity-shifts, attachment concerns, and the complex emotional terrain that comes with becoming a parent

This isn’t about “fixing” symptoms. Instead, we slow down, observe, and understand what your emotions are trying to tell you. Even the ones you’ve learned to tuck away.

Training & Experience

  • I hold a Bachelor and Postgraduate Diploma in Psychological Science, and a Master of Clinical Psychology. 

  • I continue to grow through fortnightly clinical supervision and in-depth training in Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP).

  • While ISTDP is my primary modality, I’ve also trained in CBT, ACT, DBT, Schema Therapy, and trauma-focused approaches all to enhance the psychodynamic work we do together. 

Clinical Background

Over the years, I’ve worked in a variety of settings — community services, youth mental health, veteran support, and private practice. I’ve supported people across the lifespan, including neurodivergent individuals and people with complex trauma, anxiety, depression, and relational difficulties. 

Scholarship & Research

My academic work has centered on alexithymia — the challenge some people have in naming or connecting with their emotions. Through my research, I’ve come to see this not as a flaw, but often as a protective way our minds learn to keep us safe. 

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  • Sweetnam, T. J., & Flack, M. (2023). Ready, set, …and difficulty slowing down: What role does alexithymia, emotional regulation and interoceptive awareness play in exercise dependence? Acta Psychologica, 237. 

  • Lyvers, M. F., Sweetnam, T., & Thorberg, F. (2021). Alexithymia, rash impulsiveness, and reward sensitivity … in young adults. Australian Journal of Psychology, 73(4).​

Registration & Professional Memberships

I am a Registered Psychologist (AHPRA) and a member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS). 

Where & How I Work

  • I offer in-person therapy on the Gold Coast (Miami) and Tweed Coast. 

  • I also provide telehealth sessions, with flexible availabilities — mornings, evenings. 

  • For parents in the perinatal period, I offer in-home therapy to support you through emotional and identity shifts. 

  • I offer walk-and-talk appointments for those that want to get outdoors.

  • I deliberately keep a small caseload, so I can bring my full attention and care to each person I work with. 

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