- M Scott Peck
Liela Vergara
Psychologist, Counselling Psychologist
Cognito Psychology
Ultimo, Sydney NSW 2007
In Person + Online Therapy Australia-wide
Philosophy & Vision
I hope to create a space where clients can believe in change, even during challenging times. Together, we explore your experiences, develop coping skills, and build resilience. Therapy aims to help you develop strengths, learn new tools, and live with more balance by identifying your goals, gaining self-awareness, and initiating change. I understand the importance of building and maintaining a strong therapeutic alliance. This alliance is the foundation of effective therapy. It's a collaborative partnership built on trust, respect, and mutual understanding between you and me. A strong therapeutic alliance means we're working together towards your goals. It involves clear communication, where I listen attentively and empathetically, and you feel heard and understood. It also means we agree on the goals of therapy and the methods we'll use to achieve them.
Background
I am passionate about supporting people and have over 10 years' experience in the healthcare industry, including over eight years' experience as a registered psychologist. My career began in the dental field, where, as a dental assistant, I gained valuable experience working with clinicians and patients. I later transitioned to psychology, working with people who had experienced trauma. Witnessing the positive changes some clients achieved instilled in me a deep confidence in the therapeutic process and a firm belief in the potential for growth and healing. Subsequently, I managed a team of psychologists as a regional manager, an experience I found both rewarding and enriching. I am grateful for the experiences I have had.
Services
I provide assessment and intervention for adolescents, adults, couples, and university students. I also work with people experiencing trauma symptoms or PTSD, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, and eating disorders. I provide ADHD treatment and offer telehealth services.
My assessments focus on understanding your situation, the factors maintaining your symptoms, and developing tailored, evidence-based treatment plans. This involves exploring your history, environment, values, and goals. You will be supported throughout the process.
Quality Provision
I provide an ethical service to all my clients, using evidence-based interventions. I maintain my professional development annually and work within my scope of practice. I aim to provide a safe space for change for all my clients while adhering to professional boundaries. If you are considering therapy, please do not hesitate to contact me. I offer a safe and confidential space to discuss your experiences.
Areas of Special Interest
Accreditations
- Master of Professional Psychology - Western Sydney University
- Graduate Diploma of Psychology - University of New England
- Graduate Diploma of Psychology - University of New England
- Bachelor of Communications and Political Economy - University of New South Wales
Modalities
ACT - CBT - Gottman Method - Holistic - Meditation - Mindfulness - Motivational Interviewing - Schema Therapy - Solution Oriented - Strengths-Based - Trauma-Informed
Therapy Approach
I find Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to be a very helpful starting point; however, some people prefer different therapeutic approaches. I often recommend schema therapy for addressing persistent barriers. ACT, mindfulness-based approaches, and solution-focused interventions can be helpful for focusing on the present moment. Ultimately, the most effective approach depends on your individual needs and what we are addressing in a particular session, as everyone is different.
Professional Associations
- Australian Psychological Society
Practice Locations
Level 6, Suite 114, 330 Wattle Street
Ultimo NSW 2007
One hour street sparking is available from 10:00 am on Wattle Street, outside of the building. Paid parking available as well. Cognito Psychology is approximately a 20 minute walk from Central Station. The light rail is close by, and there are buses.
Appointments
I am available during the week, mainly on Friday and weekend on Saturday at the moment. I open at 9:00 am, and work until the afternoon. Please call 0427498242 to obtain further information regarding availability.
Fees & Insurance
Individual Session
With Medicare
$143.35 per 50-minute session
$158.35 after hours per 50-minute session (weekdays after 5:00 PM, weekends)
Without Medicare
$240 per 50-minute session.
$255 after-hours per 50-minute session
Couples: $290
Languages
English
Spanish
Payment Options
Credit Card Payment
Bank Transfer
Contact Liela
Please contact me for more information
A conversation with Liela Vergara
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When I was a child, I discovered I was very curious about how life worked. I also had a very caring nature, and whenever I had the opportunity to care for pets or other people, I welcomed it. This led me to pursue a career as a psychologist. I believe that we all have valuable knowledge to share, and we can learn so much from each other. We are constantly learning and evolving, and sometimes we all need a little support. This career gives me the opportunity to continually learn from everyone I meet, and most importantly, to share some of my own knowledge and apply the skills from my professional training to help people improve their quality of life. I find my career very rewarding.
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I think the most effective approach in psychology often involves integrating different perspectives and tailoring them to the specific needs of the person, as we are dynamic beings.
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So many things interest me; however, what truly interests me is the human spirit: people have a wonderful ability to bounce back from challenges.
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It depends on the individual and their needs or presenting issues. I've found Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can be very helpful, and other approaches that allow for deeper exploration of schemas, such as Schema Therapy, can also be beneficial. I believe that providing a safe space where the person feels heard and has the opportunity to take the lead can be very empowering.
I use mindfulness-based approaches, solution-focused interventions, and trauma-informed treatment. I've found that the skills taught in Gottman Couples Therapy are very transferable, can be used in various situations, and are highly valued by people. -
It depends on the individual client, their specific goals, and what they need to experience to recognise their own progress.
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Increased awareness, compassion, and insight
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I enjoy the variety of my work as a therapist; every day brings new experiences and learning opportunities.
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Yes! The humidity and my wavy hair make sure of that.
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The world faces many challenges, but the lack of connection, acceptance, and self-care stands out as particularly significant to me. It's important to prioritise these fundamental needs.
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Tuesdays with Morrie written by Mitch Albom