About
About Olive Branch Psychology
At Olive Branch Psychology, we understand that relationships are central to our wellbeing. They can be a source of deep connection, support, and meaning. At times, they can also contribute to stress, disconnection, or emotional pain.
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Our practice is grounded in the belief that 'we are born with a need to be in relationship, and that this need continues throughout the lifespan.' With this in mind, we are committed to offering a therapeutic space where individuals, couples, and families feel safe, supported, and genuinely heard.
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Rather than focusing only on symptoms, we aim to explore the broader context of your experience; including relational patterns, family systems, and the stories that have shaped you. Our work is collaborative, respectful, and guided by curiosity. Whether you're seeking support for your own mental health, your relationship, or your family, we're here to walk alongside you in a way that walks alongside your strengths and values.
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We welcome clients from adolescent onwards and from all walks of life, we offer in-person appointments from our Toowong location.
Therapeutic Approaches
Sandy is a psychologist and clinical family therapist who is committed to providing an empathic, non-judgemental space that fosters growth, healing, and connection. She believes that people hold the capacity for change within themselves, and that when given the space to explore their own strengths, they can move toward greater clarity and wellbeing.
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Her role is to facilitate that space with care and curiosity, supporting individuals, couples, and families to better understand their experiences, strengthen their relationships, and work toward their goals in a way that aligns with their values.
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Sandy's primary therapeutic approach is Systemic Therapy, which focuses on the relationships, patterns, and contexts that shape a person’s experiences and responses—particularly those that may be contributing to their mental health concerns. This approach helps clients develop a deeper understanding of themselves and the dynamics influencing their behaviour, thoughts, and emotions, empowering them to make more authentic and intentional choices in their lives.
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She integrates a range of Evidence Based Intervention tailored to the needs of each client, including:
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Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)
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Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
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Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
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Mindfulness-Based Therapies
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Gottman Method Couples Therapy
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Informed by Attachment Theory, Sandy places strong emphasis on building a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship, which she sees as a key foundation for meaningful change.
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Sandy offers a space works for adolescents, adults, couples, and families to explore many challenges including;
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Anxiety and depression
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Life stage transitions
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Family of origin issues
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Relationship conflict
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Communication difficulties
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Parenting support
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Grief and loss
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Meet Sandy
Sandy Hunter
Psychologist and Clinical Family Therapist
Qualifications
Master of Mental Health (Family Therapy)
Bachelor of Psychology
Post Graduate Diploma Psychology
Early in my career, I worked in a child and adolescent mental health team. It was during this time that I started working with individuals and families and I witnessed the positive impact that working with a whole family had when supporting a young person’s mental health. These experiences showed me that change often happens more effectively when we look at the bigger picture, not just the individual or the 'symptoms'. This is ultimately what led me to train further in family therapy and to where I am here today. Now for a little about my practice.
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I once heard someone say 'I can remember the moment that I stopped being an expert in families and parenting - it was the day after I had my own child.' As a mother, I truly understand that sentiment. I appreciate the challenges that families face — the complexity of parenting through different developmental stages, navigating transitions and the the pressures of doing this while juggling daily life. I don't believe that there is 'one way' to do family or parenting, This is why I am committed to partnering with those attending therapy. My aim is to provide space where people can explore what is important for them and how they find a way to live a life that is value driven.
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I use systemic frameworks which focus on understanding a person, couple or families 'challenges' in their context. I see those who attend therapy as the experts in their own life and my role is to facilitate a space where people can explore, reflect and grow. Through tailored, evidence-based interventions, I aim to help people develop tools to navigate challenges and live a life in line with what is important to them.
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Ultimately, I hope to offer a space where people feel seen, heard, and supported, a space where they can make sense of their experiences, strengthen their relationships, and move toward the kind of life they want to live.
Registration
Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (APHRA): Psychologist
Australian Association of Family Therapy (AAFT):
Clinical Family Therapist