About
At Olive Branch Psychology, we recognise that relationships can be a source of great connection, support, and fulfilment, while also presenting challenges that impact our mental health and wellbeing. As a dedicated private practice, we offer personalised, evidence-based psychological support tailored to your unique experiences, goals, and circumstances.
Therapeutic Approaches
I am a psychologist and clinical family therapist committed to providing an empathic, non-judgemental space that supports reflection, growth, and connection. I believe that people hold the capacity for change within themselves and that, when given the opportunity to explore their strengths and experiences, they can move towards greater clarity, resilience, and wellbeing.
My role is to facilitate a therapeutic space with care and curiosity, supporting individuals, couples, and families to better understand their experiences, strengthen their relationships, and work towards goals that align with their values.
My 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 contribute to emotional distress and mental health concerns. This approach helps clients develop a deeper understanding of themselves and the patterns influencing their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, supporting them to make more intentional and meaningful choices.
I also integrate EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) where appropriate, particularly when working individually with trauma related concerns, PTSD and Complex PTSD, and distressing life experiences. EMDR may support the processing of difficult memories and experiences in a structured and evidence based way.
I integrate a range of evidence based interventions tailored to the unique needs of each client, including:
• Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
• Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)
• Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
• Mindfulness Based Therapies
• Gottman Method Couples Therapy
Informed by Attachment Theory, I place a strong emphasis on developing a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship, which I see as a foundation for meaningful and lasting therapeutic work.
I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families across a range of concerns, including:
• Anxiety and depression
• Trauma, PTSD and Complex PTSD
• Life transitions and adjustment difficulties
• Family of origin issues
• Relationship conflict
• Communication difficulties
• Parenting support
• Grief and loss
Meet Sandy
Sandy Hunter
Psychologist and Clinical Family Therapist
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. 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 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. 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. 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.
Qualifications
Master of Mental Health (Family Therapy)
Bachelor of Psychology
Post Graduate Diploma Psychology
Registration
Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (APHRA): Psychologist
Australian Association of Family Therapy (AAFT): Clinical Family Therapist
Get In Touch
Finding the right psychologist is an important part of the therapeutic process. Whether you're experiencing difficulties within your relationship, feeling overwhelmed by stress, or navigating life's challenges, I welcome your enquiry. Please complete the contact form or give me a call if you would like to discuss how I may be able to help, and whether I may be the right fit for your needs.
Toowong, QLD, Australia
Request an Appointment or Ask a Question
Complete the form below if you would like to enquire about appointments or have a question about our services. We will respond as soon as practicable.
