Dr. Yalda Latifi

Relationship and Family Counsellor
Alcohol and other Drug (AOD) Clinician

Qualifications

Spoken Languages

You Deserve to Feel Great. I’m Here to Help.

My Background

I am a senior counsellor, psychotherapist, and trauma therapist, specialising in family and couples therapy, as well as alcohol and other drug interventions. For more than 20 years, I have been committed to exploring mindfulness, meditation, and healing practices such as Reiki. This journey has been shaped by my passion for self-awareness, personal transformation, and helping others find more meaningful and connected ways to live.

My therapeutic approach is informed by a range of evidence-based psychological therapies, including Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Systemic Therapy, Somatic Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.

My Expertise

I completed my education in psychology in India before moving to Australia, where I earned a Master’s degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy. I later obtained my PhD from the University of Sydney, within the Faculty of Social Sciences, specialising in Mental Health, Alcohol, and Other Drugs.

I have developed extensive clinical experience through my work with the Drug and Alcohol Multicultural Education Centre (DAMEC), as well as through my private practice. In addition to running my private practice, I currently work full-time at Hills Private Hospital as a Counselling Mental Health Team Leader, and Supervisor.

I am also a PACFA-accredited clinical supervisor, providing clinical supervision to counsellors, psychotherapists, and group therapists. Over the years, I have supported and supervised many student psychotherapists and counsellors as part of their professional development.

Who I Work With?

I work with young people, adults, couples, families, and individuals from diverse cultural and life backgrounds. My work supports people experiencing a wide range of emotional, relational, and mental health challenges, including trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and bereavement, relationship difficulties, family conflict, workplace stress, domestic violence, addiction, migration and refugee experiences, and major life transitions.

I also have experience supporting clients involved with WorkCover, court referrals, community services, and those seeking assistance with Work Development Orders. Over the years, it has been a privilege to work with people across different ages, cultures, and circumstances, including individuals and couples navigating complex personal, family, and social challenges.

When working together, I aim to create a safe, respectful, and supportive space where clients feel heard and understood. I work collaboratively with each person to explore their concerns, understand the patterns contributing to their distress, and identify meaningful steps toward healing, self-awareness, and positive change.

Depending on each client’s needs, our work may focus on managing strong emotions, improving relationships, strengthening self-esteem, navigating life challenges, or developing a more balanced and compassionate understanding of oneself and others. My goal is to support clients in finding greater clarity, resilience, and confidence as they move through difficult experiences and work toward personal growth.