Meet The Team
Director and Principal Psychologist
Amber Sargeant
Hi, I'm Amber. I'm a registered psychologist and the Director of The Sunshine Club. I started The Sunshine Club to create a safe, no nonsense practice to support people through the messier parts of life, and to help everyone to live a life that's more meaningful and fulfilling.
I am a generally registered psychologist, and am currently completed further training in clinical psychology. I have worked across both public and private settings and have experience working across the lifespan from our little tiny people, all the way up until the later stages of adulthood.
I work to support people through a variety of difficulties, including anxiety, depression, personality disorders, behavioural difficulties, relationship problems, school and work issues, life stressors and more. I'm also here to support you if you are in a good place, and are looking to grow towards an even better one.
I believe the therapeutic relationship is one of the most important parts of therapy. I work with you as a member of your team, and believe in a collaboration and client centered approach. As therapy is a unique experience for everyone, I believe in creating a tailored treatment plan for reach client to support you towards your goals, drawing from a number of evidence based therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy. For our little ones, I believe in a play-based approach to therapy aiming to create a safe space where children are able to develop trust and rapport.
I am also experienced in psychometric assessment of behavioural, emotional and learning difficulties, and believe in empowering clients with the information gained via these assessments by implementing a systemic support plan helping clients to reach their potential.
I can wait to work with you, and support you towards finding your sunshine.
Senior Psychologist
Bianca Veage
Hi there, I’m Bianca.
I’m a General Psychologist. Graduating with a Bachelor of Psychology Honours (2013) & Postgraduate Diploma in Professional Psychology (2014) at UOW.
I’m very grateful to have gained experience working with clients across all ages in a variety of indoor and outdoor psychology settings within the Sutherland Shire and Illawarra.
I have worked a lot with adolescents and young adults through my work at Headspace, in private practice, through running performance psychology workshops and providing support for young athletes and elite performers in High School.
I have experience helping individuals managing challenges such as anxiety, life and school related stressors, depression, limited social skills, self-esteem, negative relationships with food, relationship breakdowns, adjusting to significant life changes, new mothers requiring support + more.
I have learnt so much from the clients I have worked with over the years and love that through my job I get to support others to develop their insights and shape their life into how they would like things to be. I’m bright and bubbly, some have said I’m a bit like a cheerleader as I try to create a relaxed and encouraging space for my clients to get the most out of therapy. I use a variety of tools with my approach, commonly utilising evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy.
If I feel like the right fit for you I would love the opportunity to work with you and come along on your journey.
Psychologist
Stephanie Costa
Hello, I’m Steph.
I am a registered Psychologist and have been supporting people with their mental health and wellbeing since 2015. I aim to create a therapeutic space that is warm, supportive and judgement free. Life can be challenging at times, and I believe having a safe place to explore these challenges can allow for meaningful growth and change. I value working alongside individuals to help them build on their own strengths, achieve their goals and live a fulfilling life.
I have experience working with adolescents and adults in the community sector and private practice. Across these settings, I have worked with individuals and families and facilitated group programs. I currently work with people experiencing a range of challenges including anxiety, depression, OCD, grief and loss, trauma, difficult relationships, self esteem issues and many more. I have a special interest in working with young adults and anyone experiencing grief and loss. I welcome people from all walks of life and approach my work with kindness, respect and curiosity.
I see value in working from a holistic approach that encompasses all aspect of a person’s life. Having completed a Bachelor degree in Psychological Science (Honours) and a Master of Professional Psychology, I draw on current research and evidence-based therapies such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. I work collaboratively, tailoring treatment plans and sessions to each individual person and their needs. I’m very grateful to be able to witness so many people overcome challenges and achieve positive changes in their life.
I look forward to meeting with you and helping you achieve your goals.
Psychologist
Naryna Dawes
Hi, I’m Naryna.
I am a registered psychologist with a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) from Western Sydney University. I have worked with adolescents, adults and children across diverse socio-cultural backgrounds with a wide range of presenting issues.
I aim to create a warm, relaxed and non judgmental therapeutic environment where clients can share their authentic selves. My goal is to make individuals feel like they have someone in their corner cheering them on and empowering them to make positive changes in their lives.
Working within the NDIS sector as well as the school system has allowed me to practise and develop skills across a range of clinical issues. I particularly enjoy working with those struggling with perfectionism, confidence, low self-esteem and symptoms associated with ADHD.
I draw on various modalities including Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy , Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. I like to work collaboratively with my clients on which treatment they feel would be the best fit for them, tailoring treatment to their specific needs.
I am skilled in the treatment of diverse life problems and aim to support clients through anxiety, depression, work pressures, burnout, grief and loss as well as relationship concerns. I believe that it is a privilege to hear someone's story and be a part of that journey to create a more fulfilling life. If any of this stood out for you, I would love the opportunity to work with you.
Psychologist
Nasreen Ajam
Hi my name is Nasreen and I am a registered psychologist who has over 11 years’ experience in adult and adolescent mental health.
I am passionate about working with clients to help them navigate through difficult times and through this my belief is that each client is unique and important. For this reason, a treatment plan is tailored based on each person’s presentations, and needs within therapy.
My key areas of interest are the understanding and management of stress, anxiety, depression, panic disorders, mood disorders, relationship issues, grief and trauma, health psychology and the impact of lifestyle choices on people’s mental health. I understand the importance of taking a holistic approach to therapy and strategies that encompass family, social, lifestyle, educational or workplace situations.
I have trained in the areas of mental health and nutrition, lifestyle medicine and integrative approaches to mental health issues. I am trained in the modalities of mindfulness, Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Schema Therapy.
I look forward to helping you on your journey within therapy.
Psychologist
Alexandra Newmarch
Hi, I’m Alexandra. I’m a Registered Psychologist with a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology), a Post-Graduate Certificate in Grief, Loss and Trauma Counselling, and a Post-Graduate Certificate in Art and Play Therapy. I predominantly work with kids, teenagers, and young adults, but have worked across the lifespan. I use a range of therapy modalities, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solutions Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, and skills from Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). In sessions, I look for opportunities to explore new stories and possibilities with curiosity and openness, and to connect with you with empathy and acceptance. I will always take you seriously, and I will always strive to listen to you and work with you, using the strengths and resources that you have (or discover), to help you find your way to flourishing. My hope is that when we finish working together, you will feel heard, you will feel equipped, and you will feel the self-belief that you need to handle the ups and downs that life can throw at us.
When I’m not working, I enjoy just being with my husband and young kids, writing, throwing myself with great enthusiasm into various creative projects, and reading.
Administrative Manager
Sharyn Sargeant
Hi, I'm Sharyn.
I'm the administrative assistant at The Sunshine Club Psychology. You will find me at the front desk or answering your phone calls each Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. I will be helping you process your payments and rebates, booking in or rescheduling your appointments.
I have worked across numerous customer service industries throughout my career and have a passion for helping others. I also have experience in the owning and running of my own business previously.
In my spare time, I enjoy gardening, caring for our alpacas, dogs, goats, sheep, chickens and bees on our hobby farm, cooking delicious foods for my family, and caring for my grandsons.
I look forward to meeting each of you.
Psychologist
Timothy Joss
Hi, my name is Tim.
I am a registered psychologist with a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) from the University of Wollongong. I have experience working with a large variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, personality disorders, sleep difficulty, stress and more. I have worked with people from all stages of life and also have experience working with neurodiversity and NDIS participants.
I like to work side by side with people to accomplish their goals in therapy and life. I have experience with Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy skills (DBT skills). However, I aim to provide a tailored therapy which suits each person’s individual needs and allows us to work collaboratively together. I use a holistic approach and I have an interest in mindfulness-based practices and encourage building a positive relationship with our thoughts, feelings, and self.
I am a calm and nonjudgmental presence; I believe we all face our own challenges in life, and I enjoy helping others and working together to overcome whatever challenges you may be facing right now.
​
Please Note: Tim is a registered SIRA provider and is qualified to accept referrals under Work Cover in NSW. Please let us know at time of booking if you are attending under a Work Cover Scheme.
Administrative Assistant
Amber Trimnell-Ritchard
Hi, my name is Amber.
I am an administrative assistant at The Sunshine Club Psychology. I’m here for your front desk needs, helping you process payments/rebates, schedule appointments, and to be a happy face for a chat.
I come from a varied employment background having worked in hospitality for many years, and currently work in the behavioural sphere. I am a positive ABA Therapist helping children with Intellectual Disability, and Autism Spectrum Disorder in achieving academic, communication, social, and life skills outcomes. I also work in animal behaviour where I assist in Puppy Playgroup and Puppy socialisation classes in the Sutherland Shire. I adore working with people and animals and find it immensely rewarding!
I hold a Bachelor of Psychological Science, and am working towards my Master of Counselling, where I hope to make a difference in peoples lives. Although always buzzing around, in my spare time I love being in the ocean, collecting vintage jewellery, and listening to true crime podcasts.
I look forward to meeting you!
Psychologist
Jessica Katsamatsas
Jess is a psychologist, holding a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) from the University of Wollongong and a Graduate Diploma of Psychology Advanced from Monash University. Over the past five years, she has worked in the special education and disability sector, and for the last two years, she's been in private practice, working with people across the lifespan.
Jess has experience working with various mental health issues like anxiety, depression, adjustment disorder, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and ASD. She's committed to using practical, evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindfulness.
Jess has a genuine passion for improving wellbeing and empowering individuals to be their best selves. She believes in using effective, down-to-earth methods to help people navigate their challenges. Jess is dedicated to promoting psychological health and wellbeing, and her goal is to make a positive impact on the lives of those she works with.
Psychologist
Lisa Brown
Hi, Im Lisa.
I am a registered psychologist with AHPRA and have completed a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) and a Master of Professional Psychology from Western Sydney University. I have an empathetic, non-judgmental and collaborative therapeutic style ensuring therapy sessions are a safe and comfortable space to explore and grow. I am committed to a person-centred approach and tailor therapy techniques to best suit each client's needs.
My aim as a psychologist is to ensure you feel completely comfortable in taking a step towards seeking support.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, young adults and families. I have worked with individuals presenting with a range of issues including, anxiety, depression, trauma, intellectual disability, autism, attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder, self-worth, body dysmorphia, relationship difficulties, phobias and more.
Through my previous experience working in schools I also have experience with psychometric assessment of behavioural and learning difficulties.
Evidence-based treatment that I utilise in session include, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment therapy, Mindfulness-Based therapy and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy.
If this aligns with what you are looking for I hope to support and work with you soon.