Understanding Anxiety & Depression
Anxiety and depression are the most common mental health conditions in Australia, affecting millions of people at some point in their lives. Despite how widespread they are, both conditions are frequently misunderstood — and many people suffer in silence for years before seeking help.
The important thing to know is that anxiety and depression are not character flaws or signs of weakness. They are real, recognised medical conditions with highly effective treatments available. With the right support, most people experience significant improvement and go on to live full, meaningful lives.
Anxiety
Anxiety is more than everyday worry or stress. It becomes a clinical concern when it is persistent, excessive, and begins to interfere with daily life, relationships, or work.
Common types of anxiety we treat include:
- Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
- Social anxiety disorder
- Panic disorder and panic attacks
- Phobias and fears
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Health anxiety
- Separation anxiety
- Anxiety related to trauma or chronic illness
Common symptoms of anxiety include persistent worry, restlessness, difficulty concentrating, sleep problems, physical tension, heart palpitations, and avoidance of situations that trigger fear.
Depression
Depression is more than feeling sad or going through a difficult patch. It is a persistent low mood that affects how you think, feel, and function in everyday life.
Common symptoms of depression include:
- Persistent sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
- Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed
- Fatigue and low energy
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Sleep disturbances — sleeping too much or too little
- Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
- Withdrawal from family, friends, and social activities
Depression and anxiety frequently occur together, and many of the treatments that are effective for one are also effective for the other.
Our Approach to Treatment
At Sue Stern Psychology we take an integrated, whole-person approach to treating anxiety and depression. Rather than applying a single method to every client, we draw on a range of evidence-based therapies and tailor treatment to your individual needs, history, and goals.
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) — one of the most well-researched treatments for anxiety and depression. CBT helps you identify and change the negative thought patterns and behaviours that maintain these conditions, replacing them with more balanced, helpful ways of thinking and responding
- Counselling and Psychological Support — a warm, non-judgemental space to explore your experiences, understand the roots of your difficulties, and develop greater self-awareness and resilience
- EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) — particularly effective when anxiety or depression has its roots in past trauma or distressing life experiences
- Neurofeedback — a drug-free brain training approach that directly targets the brainwave patterns associated with anxiety and depression, helping to regulate mood, reduce worry, and improve sleep and energy levels
- Stress Management Strategies — practical, evidence-based techniques including breathing techniques, progressive muscle relaxation, mindfulness, and activity scheduling
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) — helps you develop psychological flexibility, reduce the struggle against difficult thoughts and feelings, and build a life guided by your values rather than your symptoms
What to Expect
Your first session will be an assessment appointment where Sue will take time to understand your symptoms, history, and what you would like to achieve from therapy. From there, a personalised treatment plan will be developed and reviewed regularly as you progress.
Sessions are available in person at our Harris Park clinic, just minutes from Parramatta, and via telehealth for clients who prefer to attend from home.
Funding Options
Anxiety and depression treatment at Sue Stern Psychology is available under:
- Medicare — with a GP Mental Health Care Plan (up to 10 sessions per year)
- NDIS — under Capacity Building supports for eligible participants
- Workers Compensation and CTP — where anxiety or depression is related to a workplace or motor vehicle accident
- Private payment — no referral required
- Wentwest — for eligible clients in Western Sydney
FREQUENTLy ASKED QUESTIONS
If your symptoms have lasted more than two weeks, are affecting your daily life, relationships, or work, or if you are struggling to cope, it is worth speaking to a professional. You don’t need to be in crisis to seek support — in fact, the earlier you reach out, the better the outcomes tend to be.
If your symptoms have lasted more than two weeks, are affecting your daily life, relationships, or work, or if you are struggling to cope, it is worth speaking to a professional. You don’t need to be in crisis to seek support — in fact, the earlier you reach out, the better the outcomes tend to be.
No referral is needed to book an appointment. However, if you wish to claim a Medicare rebate you will need a GP Mental Health Care Plan. We recommend speaking to your GP if you are experiencing significant symptoms.
Psychologists provide talking therapies and psychological assessment. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialise in mental health and can prescribe medication. For most people with anxiety or depression, seeing a psychologist is the most appropriate first step.
Yes. Psychological therapies such as CBT, EMDR, and Neurofeedback are highly effective treatments for anxiety and depression without medication. Many clients prefer a non-medication approach, and research supports this as a valid and effective option.
This varies depending on the severity and complexity of your symptoms. Many people notice significant improvement within 6–12 sessions of CBT. Others benefit from longer term support. Your psychologist will discuss a recommended treatment plan after your initial assessment.
Yes. Telehealth sessions are available for clients who prefer to attend from home. Medicare rebates apply to telehealth sessions with a GP Mental Health Care Plan.