CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST

MAPS, MCCLP, MAADPA

MPsych (Clinical), GDipPsych, GDipPsych (Adv), BA Psychology/Sociology), BSW.

Penelope is an AHPRA-registered Clinical Psychologist with full membership in the Australian Psychological Society (APS), the APS College of Clinical Psychologists, and the Australian ADHD Professionals Association.

Penelope takes a collaborative and authentic approach to therapy, offering a blend of practical tools and deeper introspective work tailored to each client’s unique goals and needs. She works with individuals aged 17+. Her style is compassionate, grounded, and attuned—focusing on fostering insight, emotional growth, and meaningful behavioural change.

Drawing from her training and experience across a range of evidence-based modalities, Penelope integrates elements of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP). She tailors her interventions to align with each client’s stage of change, presenting issues, cognitive capacity, and response to treatment, ensuring that therapy remains flexible, relevant, and effective.

Before completing her Master of Clinical Psychology, Penelope worked for many years as a qualified social worker, providing counselling and support to individuals navigating complex life challenges. This background enriches her clinical practice with a holistic, compassionate understanding of the social, emotional, and systemic factors that shape wellbeing.

PSYCHOLOGIST

Samantha Harskamp is a registered psychologist who works with teenagers, youth, and adults. She utilises her knowledge of the mind and behaviour and helps people understand and cope with their mental health issues.  Samantha has studied at Swinburne University and Deakin University, completing both her degrees and master’s degrees.  Samantha has worked both in private and community settings.  Samantha has worked as the head of wellbeing at a secondary school and many organisations supporting youth and adult mental health.  Samantha works with LGBTQIA+ community members and the neurodiverse community (ADHD and Autism) from a neuro-affirming approach.

Samantha provides specialist support to help adolescents manage stress, anxiety, and the demands of school life. She assists with study skills, time management, and exam preparation, while offering a safe space to explore emotions and personal challenges. Samantha also helps young people set goals, stay motivated, and make informed decisions about their future, working collaboratively with school staff to support both wellbeing and academic success.

Click here for information about Samantha.

COUNSELLOR

Nichola is an intuitive and compassionate counsellor, supporting people recovering from trauma, grief, loss, relationship break ups, abusive relationships and more. Nichola also works with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, life transitions, injury and illness and those wanting to problem solve or seek guidance and direction. She has a special interest in walking alongside women in their healing journey.

Nichola provides a safe, supportive, and non-judgemental space where clients can explore and connect with their feelings, gain clarity, and reconnect with their inner self.

Nichola’s approach is holistic and integrative, recognising the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit in the healing process. In addition to evidence-based talk therapy, underpinned by ACT, CBT and somatic principles, with her background and passion for art and writing, when appropriate for client’s needs, Nichola can incorporate creative modalities such as art, photography, writing, poetry and journaling. She also believes in the healing powers of nature, and can offer clients individual walks and talks, or creative walks and talks in Bayside as part of their journey. Combining all these skills, Nichola can help enable clients to access deeper self-expression, insight, and emotional connection. With empathy, intuition, and professional expertise, Nichola guides clients on their unique journey toward healing, personal growth, and renewed self-trust.

PSYCHOLOGIST

MPsych, PsyBA - Health Psych

Despina is an experienced psychologist with a strong interest in the mind-body connection. She particularly enjoys working with individuals who actively seek to improve their overall mental health and psychological well-being. By applying practical techniques therapy focuses on exploring and dealing with mental health and psychological concerns comprehensively. Therapy is individually tailored and opens the door to a new paradigm - a way of thinking and living a rich and meaningful life.

Languages: Greek

Despina currently only works on Saturdays.

What does a psychologist do?

Finding the right psychologist for you

Can a psychologist diagnose mental disorders?

Can a psychologist prescribe medication?

More questions answered here

More resources visit www.mindmymind.com.au.

Our Reception and Administration Angel

At the heart of our practice is our wonderful receptionist and admin angel, whose warmth and compassion help every client feel welcomed and supported from the very first contact. With genuine care and sensitivity, she guides clients through the process of seeking help—calming anxiety, answering questions with patience and understanding, and ensuring each person feels heard and respected.

Her thoughtful approach to matching clients with therapists based on their individual needs, preferences, and goals reflects her deep commitment to helping people find the right therapeutic fit. Whether she’s offering a reassuring word over the phone or managing the many behind-the-scenes details that keep the practice running smoothly, she does so with grace, kindness, and a calming presence that truly sets the tone for our space.