About Alexandra

Alexandra is a PACFA registered psychotherapist, working in private practice with individuals and couples. She has a Bachelor of Arts from Monash University and a Bachelor of Integrative Psychotherapy from the Ikon Institute. She is founding director of The Spring Clinic, a collaborative consulting clinic for mental health practitioners.

My Story

Practicing psychotherapy came as a natural continuation of my interest in human behavior, relationships and the mind.

My formal studies began in theatre, literature and art history, which led me to contemplate the hidden relationship between self and culture, and the subtle bond between perception and object. With a new critical perspective I began to perceive how much of our culture operates to alienate people from themselves, each other and their environment. In seeking ways of living that could contribute to a healthier society, I formally trained in the reflective practices of yoga and meditation, which I continue to this day. Psychotherapy finally emerged through an unexpected discovery at a bookstore which introduced me to the incredible theories and tools available to support individuals, couples and families in developing well-being. Psychotherapy has since become my greatest passion and hope for positive change in individuals and the community.

How I Practice

In psychotherapy, I am compelled by the questions -
“What is it like to live as this person? With their mind? In their context?”.

My ongoing study and practice is in service to understanding and supporting each particular client. Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, I employ a range of theories to explain the complexity of each individual. In practice, I work collaboratively with clients and encourage their feedback and active participation in the therapeutic process. Through a genuine human connection, I provide a space for individuals to feel safe to explore their inner worlds and discover change. Whilst I consider the medical model and diagnosis useful, they are not central to my practice.

In treatment, I practice with the aim of “working myself out of a job” - through helping clients heal, reach their goals and become resilient, resourced and autonomous.  

 

Areas of Interest

  • Grief and Loss

  • Life transitions

  • Anxiety

  • Depression

  • Relational issues

  • Attachment disturbance

  • Adverse childhood experiences

  • Complex post-traumatic stress disorder

  • Couples therapy

Training and Education

  • Bachelor of Arts, Monash University

  • Bachelor of Integrative Psychotherapy, Ikon Institute

  • Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training, Krishnamachar Yoga Shala

  • Treating Attachment Pathology training (three pillars/Ideal Parent Figure Protocol for Attachment), Integrative Psychology/Mind Only

  • Gottman Method of Couples Therapy, Level 1 Training. The Gottman Institute

  • Emotionally Focused Couple’s Therapy (Externship), EFFT Australia

  • Psychobiological Approach to Couple’s Therapy, Level 1. PACT institute