Pharos Therapy | Child, Adolescent & Adult Counselling in North Lakes

Get to know Pharos Therapy | Child, Adolescent & Adult Counselling in North Lakes

From Pharos Therapy | Child, Adolescent & Adult Counselling in North Lakes's website.

• Our approach

  At Pharos Therapy, sessions combine creative therapeutic techniques with evidence-based methods in a warm, nurturing environment designed to help children grow emotionally, mentally, and socially. Individual therapy offers one-on-one sessions tailored to your child's unique needs, creating a safe space to explore feelings, build resilience, and develop healthy coping strategies. Group therapy sessions bring children together to learn and grow with peers, encouraging social skills, fostering friendships, and providing a sense of belonging. The practice takes a holistic, family-centred approach that extends beyond the clinic into everyday life, recognising that every person's path to well-being is unique.

• Working with families

  Pharos Therapy takes a family-centred approach, believing in holistic support that involves the whole family and extends beyond the clinic into everyday life. While parents typically do not attend individual therapy sessions—as it's important for the child to have a safe, private space to express themselves openly—the practice works closely with parents as part of the collaborative support system. Families are engaged in the treatment process, with education provided about the impact of home environment and parenting on the child's mental health, and family therapy is available as part of creating a more supportive home environment.

• Meet the team

  The practice is led by Kerry Salvesen, a registered counselling psychologist with over 20 years of dedicated experience in psychology. Amanda Boucaut joined Pharos Therapy in 2024 and is a registered psychologist with over a decade of experience. Lauren serves as Practice Manager. Both psychologists provide compassionate, evidence-based psychological support and are committed to delivering the highest quality care to children, adolescents, adults, and their families.

• Your first visit

  The first session is typically an assessment where the psychologist will ask about your child's history, behaviours, and any concerns you may have. This is an opportunity for your child to get comfortable with the therapist in a safe, private space. The psychologist will listen to understand your child's specific challenges and strengths, which guides the creation of an effective treatment plan tailored to support your child's growth and well-being. You may want to prepare your child beforehand by explaining in a positive way that the psychologist is a friendly person there to help with big feelings or problems they might be facing.