Since 2008, Sara Goldie has supported people from across the Northern Rivers of NSW and beyond through her highly-regarded private clinical psychology practice in Bangalow.

In 2018, she moved to new premises in the heart of the village, establishing Bangalow Clinical Psychology.

At the practice, she has been joined by a team of experienced, clinical team. This group of psychologists and clinical neuropsychologists are highly motivated in offering an informed, integrated and progressive approach to psychological therapy and assessments.

We seek to make therapy accessible and authentic for every client. ​We do this by creating a safe, professional and confidential therapeutic space that invites people to find harmony and effectiveness in their life and relationships.

We practice a human approach to therapy. Scroll down to learn more about who we are.

Sara Goldie 
BSc Hons (Psych) MPsych (Clin) MGestTher FAPS MACPA
Clinical Psychologist and Psychotherapist
​Practice Director

** PLEASE NOTE, SARA IS CURRENTLY ON LEAVE AND NOT ACCEPTING NEW REFERRALS**

​Sara brings her astute and intuitive clinical skills together with her warmth and sensitivity to benefit every client.
 
She holds a First Class Honours Degree in Psychology, a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology, and a Masters Degree in Gestalt Psychotherapy. She has advanced postgraduate training in mindfulness practices, psychodynamic psychotherapy and clinical hypnosis and over 15 years of clinical experience.
 
Prior to setting up private practice in NSW, Sara worked clinically for several years in community mental health services and hospitals in WA and taught psychology at university.
 
Her therapeutic influences are diverse, incorporating formal training and her ongoing exploration of deeper healing modalities. Her approach is also informed by her own life experience, including several years of her own personal therapy.
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Her focus has always been exploring what it means to be human, supporting her clients to live full and meaningful lives.
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She works to empower you to develop positive self-regard and acceptance, to connect with your inner wisdom and to uncover personal resources to create fresh ways to live life with meaning, connection and fulfillment.  
  • Fully registered as a Psychologist with Clinical Endorsement with the Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Authority (AHPRA)
  • Member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS)
  • Fellow of the APS Clinical College
  • Member of the Australian Clinical Psychology Association (ACPA)
  • Registered with Medicare and Private Health Funds

Locations: Consult in-person, phone, and Telehealth video conferencing

Fees: 50-minute consultation: $260.00

Availability:
Monday: 9:00am - 5:00pm
Tuesday: 9:00am - 5:00pm
Wednesday: 9:00am - 5:00pm

Thursday: 9:00 - 5:00pm

*Sara has appointment availability. Please call direct on 0414 861 653 or fill out the form below
*Sara is currently taking waitlist appointments

Gemma Mackenzie
BS (Psychology), GradDipProfPsych, PostGradDipAnthroposophicalArtTherapy 
Psychologist

Welcome. I’m here to help you navigate life’s challenges and discover your path to a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

As a dedicated psychologist, I believe in the power of therapy to foster profound, lasting change. My approach centres on understanding what brings you contentment and meaning, using our therapeutic relationship to explore deeper questions and promote self-awareness. This, I find, is the key to long-lasting, enriching, and meaningful transformation.

Drawing from a diverse range of therapeutic modalities, including Existential Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Schema Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, Family Systems and Attachment, Person-Cantered Therapy, Behaviour Therapy, and Mindfulness practice, I tailor my approach to meet your unique needs. Despite our histories and circumstances, we all strive for purpose, fulfilment, and growth. In our sessions, I will provide a safe, supportive space where you can embark on that journey.

Many of my clients seek therapy to improve their quality of life, gain better self-understanding, and work in a collaborative, non-judgmental environment. I specialise in helping those experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, mood swings, interpersonal difficulties, and trauma.

I have a particular interest in working with both adults and adolescents who have experienced childhood abuse, neglect, or attachment injuries, but not all my clients come from these backgrounds. I support many clients who are not necessarily in distress but wish to enhance their resilience and self-awareness.

My therapeutic approach is collaborative, client-centred, and evidence-based. Together, we will identify your individual needs, uncover often-overlooked strengths, and develop a tailored treatment plan. In our initial consultations, I conduct a clinical assessment to understand your history and establish the focus of therapy, ensuring we are on track and working towards meaningful and enduring changes.

Whether you’re looking to develop coping mechanisms for recent stressors or address long-standing life patterns, I am here to assist.

With experience in private practice, non-profit, and government roles, I have worked with individuals from diverse cultures and backgrounds, including ex-pats. I’ve also facilitated professional development workshops and retreats that incorporate art therapy.

I am a registered psychologist with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency and a Medicare provider of psychology services.

In addition to my university training to become a psychologist, I have further education in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Narrative Therapy, complex trauma, attachment-focused training for youth, carer recovery processes, suicide prevention, and I have a post-graduate diploma in Anthroposophic Art Therapy.
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On a personal note, I am a mother of two young children and reside in the beautiful Northern Rivers region of NSW. Growing up in this area, I bring a local perspective to those seeking guidance and support.
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My areas of expertise include:
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Trauma and PTSD
  • Transition and adjustment difficulties
  • Self-esteem and self-development
  • Stress management and relaxation
  • Relationship challenges
  • The perinatal period
  • Grief and bereavement
  • Gender and sexual identity
  • Sexual assault
  • Concerns associated with relocating/living abroad
I look forward to working with you.
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Locations: In person consultation and Telehealth video conferencing

Fees: 50-minute consultation: $240.00

Availability:
Wednesday: 1:00pm - 7:30pm
Thursday: 2:00pm - 7:30pm

Madison Smith​
BS (Psychology), GradDipProfPsych, BHIthSc (Psy & Forensic Sci), BPsych (Hons), MProfPsych​ 
Psychologist

I enjoy working therapeutically with adolescents, young adults, and adults from a client-centered, non-judgmental, and empathetic approach. I also take a holistic and evidence-based approach, considering various factors in a person’s life when assessing what may be impacting their mental health. I believe that every person has individual strengths, and I work collaboratively with clients to identify these to improve overall well-being.

The clients I work with may be experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem challenges, neurodiversity, or general life difficulties. I also enjoy working with individuals who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community.

I have extensive experience and a passion for conducting assessments for individuals aged 3-65 for Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention- Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Personality Disorders, and Cognitive assessments. Through this experience, I have gained a strong understanding of the challenges that accompany these conditions.

I enjoy helping people better understand themselves, and I recognize that while a diagnosis may be beneficial for some, it may not be for others. My client-centered approach allows me to focus on what will be most beneficial for each client and their goals.

I offer comprehensive neurodevelopmental assessments for children, adolescents, and adults who may be seeking greater clarity around diagnoses such as ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, or other cognitive and emotional concerns. These assessments are structured to be thorough, evidence-based, and tailored to the unique needs and goals of each client. The process includes a clinical interview, the use of gold-standard diagnostic tools, and a detailed report outlining key findings and recommendations.

My assessment packages also include a dedicated feedback session where I walk clients and families through the results, answer questions, and discuss practical next steps. This session is a valuable part of the process, as it helps translate clinical information into meaningful insight, therapeutic options, and support strategies. Clients often share that this stage gives them a sense of direction and relief after years of uncertainty or misdiagnosis.

I understand that pursuing an assessment can feel daunting—emotionally, logistically, and financially. That’s why I begin every assessment journey with a triage session. This initial appointment gives us the opportunity to discuss your concerns, determine the most appropriate assessment path, and explore any additional needs such as school reports, NDIS documentation, or comorbidity screening. The triage session also allows me to provide reassurance about the process and ensure you’re informed and supported from the beginning.

Whether you are exploring a diagnosis for the first time, seeking updated information for school or workplace support, or looking to better understand yourself or your child, I aim to provide a thoughtful, respectful, and affirming experience. My goal is not only to deliver accurate and timely assessments, but to ensure that clients walk away feeling empowered and better equipped for what comes next.
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My areas of interest include:
• Assessments
• Relationship issues • Anxiety
• OCD
• ADHD
• ASD
• Self-esteem
• Depression
• LGBTQIA+ issues


Locations: Telehealth video conferencing

Fees: 50-minute consultation: $240.00

Availability:
Monday to Friday: 9:00am - 6:00pm

Dr Peta Stephenson
GradDipPsych, BPsychSc(Hons), MPsych(Clin),PhD(Arts)
Clinical Psychologist 

As a psychologist, I seek to facilitate positive change and enhance the overall wellbeing of those I have the privilege to work with. I offer my expertise and compassionate support to individuals seeking guidance and growth. My hope is to contribute to a nurturing therapeutic environment where you feel understood, empowered, and equipped with the tools to effectively navigate life’s challenges. Through collaboration and tailored interventions, I aim to assist you in gaining insight, managing your emotions, and fostering healthier relationships- both in domestic and professional spheres. My approach is straightforward: to explore your emotions deeply, understand their significance, and guide you towards a more fulfilling life.

In our sessions we’ll examine your past and present relationships, identifying patterns and behaviours to pave the way forward. Visualise me wearing two hats in our therapeutic relationship: one as your unwavering supporter, dedicated to championing your goals; the other as your gentle provocateur, nudging you beyond your comfort zone to facilitate the changes you seek.

Prior to becoming a psychologist, I worked as a lecturer and researcher at the University of Melbourne. The two scholarly books I have authored on Australian history, society, and culture are a testament to my enduring fascination with the human condition.
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I invite you to join me on a journey of self-discovery as we navigate together the complexities of your inner life to help illuminate the way toward a brighter, more harmonious future.


Locations: Telehealth video conferencing

Fees: 50-minute consultation: $280.00

Availability:
Wednesday: 8:30am - 5:00pm
Thursday: 8:30am - 5:00pm
Friday: 8:30am - 5:00pm

Dr Cory Wasser
B.A. (Hons)., & DPsych (Clinical Neuropsychology)
Clinical Neuropsychologist

I am a Clinical Neuropsychologist with extensive experience in assessing and managing cognitive, emotional, and behavioural challenges across the lifespan—from children aged 6 and above to adults. Based in East Melbourne, I collaborate with individuals facing difficulties related to mood, thinking, or daily functioning due to conditions such as anxiety, neurological disorders, acquired brain injuries, neurodegenerative diseases, and medical issues impacting cognitive capacity.

A particular focus of my practice is the assessment, diagnosis, and management of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). I employ evidence-based interventions to assist clients in managing ADHD symptoms, enhancing time management skills, reducing procrastination, and improving productivity. My approach is person-centred, integrating Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based strategies to support clients in achieving their goals and improving their quality of life.

I offer comprehensive neuropsychological assessments, diagnosis, and rehabilitation services, including support for National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) applications. I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each individual’s needs.

As a trained provider of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), I offer a structured, evidence-based approach to treating chronic insomnia. CBT-I addresses the underlying cognitive and behavioural factors contributing to sleep difficulties, rather than relying on medication. The therapy typically spans 4 to 6 sessions. Sessions typically focus on identifying and addressing behavioural and cognitive factors that contribute to ongoing sleep difficulties.

Clients are usually asked to monitor their sleep using sleep diaries, which can help clarify patterns and habits that may be interfering with sleep. This information informs a collaboratively developed sleep plan. One common element is sleep restriction, a strategy aimed at improving sleep efficiency by initially limiting time in bed to match actual sleep time, and then gradually increasing it.

Sessions may also focus on stimulus control strategies, which involve strengthening the association between bed and sleep—for example, by discouraging wakeful activities in bed such as watching TV or using a phone. Cognitive strategies are often introduced to explore and reframe unhelpful beliefs about sleep (e.g., “If I don’t sleep 8 hours, I won’t cope tomorrow”), with the aim of reducing sleep-related anxiety and promoting more balanced thinking.

Additional components can include relaxation techniques (such as progressive muscle relaxation or mindfulness) to reduce arousal before bedtime, and sleep hygiene education, which may cover topics like caffeine intake, screen use, and light exposure.

​Progress is reviewed throughout the process, and plans are adjusted as needed. As a neuropsychologist, I often adapt CBT-I approaches to suit individuals with diverse cognitive and emotional needs, including those with conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, or neurological conditions. Consideration is also given to cultural, developmental, and contextual factors that may influence how strategies are understood and applied.



Locations: Telehealth video conferencing

Fees: 50-minute consultation: $280.00

Availability:
Monday: 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Tuesday: 8:00am - 5:30pm
Thursday: 9:00am - 6:00pm

​Discover how we can help or speak to us today.
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