Cairns Beaches Psychology
Psychologists in Cairns & Online Across Australia
Evidence-based care for all ages — at our Cairns clinic in Smithfield or via secure online therapy.
Cairns clinic
Private rooms in Smithfield; counselling for children, teens & adults.
Online therapy
Secure telehealth across Australia with flexible appointment times.
Evidence-based therapies
EMDR, CBT, IFS, DBT, Schema Therapy & mindfulness-based care.
Cairns Beaches Psychology is a team of registered and clinical psychologists providing person-centred counselling and treatment for children, adolescents and adults. Hear our story & meet the team.
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Whether you’re seeking a psychologist in Cairns or prefer online therapy, we help with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma/PTSD, ADHD, sleep difficulties and sleep disorders, grief & loss and drug & alcohol concerns.
Our clinicians use evidence-based therapies including EMDR, CBT, IFS, DBT skills training, Schema Therapy and mindfulness approaches — tailoring treatment to your goals. We also have child psychologists available for families.
Psychologists in Cairns & Online Across Australia
Evidence-Based Care from a Growing Team of PsychologistsCairns Beaches Psychology was founded by Registered Psychologist Marta Barnes and has grown into a trusted team of psychologists and clinical psychologists supporting children, adolescents and adults. We combine warm, person-centred care with proven therapies to help with anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, sleep difficulties, OCD, ADHD, and more.
Access support in person at our Cairns clinic or via secure online therapy Australia-wide. Together, we’ll tailor a plan that fits your goals, preferences and life stage.
Evidence-Based Therapies
EMDR, CBT, ACT, Schema Therapy, IFS & mindfulness-based approaches delivered to high clinical standards.
Care for All Ages
Support for children, teens and adults — from first concerns to complex, long-standing difficulties.
Flexible Access
Convenient appointments in Cairns or online — with practical strategies you can use between sessions.
If you’re searching for a psychologist in Cairns or prefer online psychology services, our team will help you move forward with clarity, confidence and care.
Expert Psychological Support in Cairns
Expert Psychological Support in Cairns
At Cairns Beaches Psychology, we provide evidence-based therapy tailored to your unique needs. Conveniently located in the beautiful Cairns region, we specialise in helping individuals overcome challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship difficulties.
Our compassionate approach ensures a safe and confidential environment where you can explore your concerns and find effective solutions.
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EMDR Therapy
Effective treatment for trauma and post-traumatic stress, helping you process and move forward.
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Stress Management
Learn practical strategies to reduce stress, build resilience, and enhance your well-being.
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Counselling
Compassionate support for anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties in a safe space.
What We Do
At Cairns Beaches Psychology, we provide comprehensive, evidence-based support for children, adolescents, and adults. Our compassionate team offers personalised care in a safe, supportive environment—online and in person at our Smithfield, Cairns clinic.
Conditions We Treat
- Depression & mood disorders
- Anxiety & panic disorders
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Stress & burnout
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Addiction & behavioural concerns
- Sleep difficulties & insomnia
- Relationship & family challenges
- And more, based on individual needs
Who We Support
We work with children, adolescents, and adults, tailoring assessment and therapy to the goals and life stage of each client.
Therapy Approaches
We create personalised treatment plans using proven methods, including:
- Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing (EMDR)
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Internal Family Systems (IFS)
- Mindfulness-based interventions
- Schema Therapy
- Other integrative, evidence-based approaches
Our Team
All clinicians at Cairns Beaches Psychology are registered and clinical psychologists, committed to high-quality, client-centred care aligned with professional standards.
Ready to begin? Contact our team to discuss the best fit for you.
"You can't stop the waves, but you can learn to surf."
- Jon Kabat-Zinn
Work with us
Join Our Team at Cairns Beaches Psychology
Our practice is growing — we welcome passionate registered and clinical psychologists who want to make a difference.
Be part of a supportive, evidence-based psychology practice in Cairns.
Are you a registered or clinical psychologist seeking a collaborative environment where client care comes first? Cairns Beaches Psychology is expanding and we’re looking for dedicated professionals to join our team. Deliver services online and in our modern Smithfield, Cairns office.
Flexible hours
Telehealth + In-clinic
Supportive team
IT Support
- Work with children, adolescents, and adults.
- Use evidence-based therapies: EMDR, CBT, IFS, Schema, Mindfulness, and more.
- Benefit from a collaborative and supportive team culture.
Register your interest | psychologists
Smithfield, Cairns • Telehealth options
We welcome applications from both registered and clinical psychologists who are passionate about client-centred care.
FAQs
What are the 7 types of mental disorders?
There isn’t one official “7,” but a helpful overview includes: anxiety disorders, mood disorders (e.g., depression, bipolar), psychotic disorders (e.g., schizophrenia), trauma- and stressor-related disorders (e.g., PTSD), personality disorders (e.g., BPD), eating disorders, and neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., ADHD, autism).
Do you offer online therapy in Cairns?
Yes. We provide secure, confidential telehealth sessions for clients across Cairns and Australia-wide, using evidence-based approaches (e.g., EMDR, CBT, IFS, Schema, mindfulness).
What ages do you work with?
We see children, adolescents, and adults. Sessions are tailored to each life stage with developmentally appropriate strategies and resources.
What conditions do you treat?
Anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, stress & burnout, OCD, panic disorder, mood disorders, ADHD, addiction, sleep & insomnia, eating disorders, and relationship/family concerns.
Which therapies do you use?
We create personalised plans drawing on EMDR, CBT, CPT, IFS, Schema Therapy, and mindfulness-based approaches.
Are your clinicians qualified?
Yes. Our team includes registered and clinical psychologists and experienced counsellors providing evidence-based care in line with professional standards.
How much does it cost to see a psychologist in Queensland?
Fees vary by clinician, session length, and service type. Private practice fees typically sit within a common range for QLD clinics. Medicare rebates may apply with a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan. Please contact us for our current schedule and any concession options.
Do you bulk-bill psychology sessions?
We are a private-billing clinic. With a GP referral and Mental Health Treatment Plan, a Medicare rebate can reduce your out-of-pocket cost, but a gap fee still applies. Some services (e.g., assessments, reports) are not Medicare-rebateable.
How does the Medicare rebate work?
Book a longer GP appointment to discuss a Mental Health Treatment Plan and referral. If eligible, Medicare provides rebates for up to 10 individual psychology sessions per calendar year (issued in blocks with a GP review for more). You pay the clinic fee and claim the rebate, leaving an out-of-pocket gap.
Is it worth seeing a psychologist?
Yes. Therapies are effective for anxiety, depression, trauma and sleep difficulties. Many people benefit from short-term skills-based care; others prefer longer-term work. Mental health needs are common—about 1 in 5 Australians experience a mental health condition in a given year.
How much is a consultation with a psychologist?
Fees depend on clinician and service type. A Medicare rebate may apply with a GP plan, reducing your out-of-pocket. See our pricing page for current rates and examples.
Psychologist vs psychiatrist — what’s the difference?
A psychologist provides talking therapies and behavioural strategies; a psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can diagnose, prescribe medication, and provide therapy. We don’t have psychiatrists on staff, but we work closely with local GPs and psychiatrists to coordinate care. Learn more.
How do I start seeing a psychologist?
You can book directly as a private client. To access a Medicare rebate, first see your GP for a Mental Health Treatment Plan and referral to our clinic or a named clinician, then book your first session (in-person or online).
How do I find the right psychologist for me?
Consider registration and experience with your concern (e.g., trauma, OCD, ADHD), approaches that fit your goals (EMDR, CBT, IFS, Schema, mindfulness), and practical factors (availability, fees, telehealth). Read profiles, consider a brief call, and notice comfort, clarity and progress in early sessions.
How can I tell if a psychologist is a good fit?
You feel heard and respected; goals are clear and reviewed; strategies are tailored; boundaries are maintained; you notice gradual progress (e.g., coping skills, insight, behaviour change). If it doesn’t feel right, discuss it or try another clinician.
What is reverse transference (countertransference)?
Countertransference is a therapist’s emotional reaction to a client. Ethical practitioners reflect on this in supervision so therapy stays focused on your goals.
What is anxiety transference?
Transference is when feelings from past relationships are redirected toward the therapist (e.g., assuming criticism). Noticing this pattern can be a powerful part of treatment.
When should you see a psychologist?
Whenever you want support with anxiety, low mood, stress, grief, trauma, sleep issues, phobias, ADHD or relationship/family challenges—and also for wellbeing, performance and life transitions. Early support can prevent problems from becoming entrenched.
What is emotional displacement?
Displacement is a defence mechanism where difficult feelings are redirected from the true source to a safer target (e.g., snapping at a partner after a stressful workday). Therapy helps identify triggers and build healthier coping.
How to tell if someone is in psychosis?
Common signs include hallucinations (hearing/seeing things), delusions (fixed false beliefs), disorganised speech/behaviour, and marked withdrawal. If someone may be at risk, seek urgent medical care (call emergency services) and avoid confrontation—aim for calm, safety and professional help.
What is EFT therapy?
EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) is an evidence-based approach for couples and families that strengthens secure emotional bonds and improves communication. It’s often delivered within relationship counselling. (Note: different from “EFT tapping,” a self-help acupressure technique.)
What is the Empty Chair technique?
A classic Gestalt Therapy method where you speak to an empty chair as if it were a person or a part of yourself—helpful for unresolved feelings, self-compassion and boundary work. Learn more about Gestalt Therapy.
What is Gestalt Therapy?
Gestalt Therapy focuses on present-moment awareness, personal responsibility and integrating “parts” of experience (thoughts, emotions, body). Techniques like the Empty Chair can foster insight and change. Read about Gestalt Therapy.
What is vicarious trauma?
Emotional and cognitive changes that can occur when regularly exposed to others’ trauma (common in helping professions and caregivers). Signs include numbness, hypervigilance, intrusive imagery and cynicism. Supervision, boundaries and self-care are protective.
What is mind tapping?
Often used to describe EFT “tapping”—a self-help technique combining gentle tapping on acupressure points with focusing statements. Some people find it calming; it’s distinct from Emotionally Focused Therapy (the couples therapy above).
What to do before seeing a psychologist?
Clarify your goals, jot key history/medications, bring referral/plan if using Medicare, and think of recent examples of the issue. Arrive a few minutes early and consider what a good first session outcome would look like.
How does sleep affect mental well-being?
Sleep and mental health are tightly linked: poor sleep can worsen anxiety, mood, concentration and coping, while therapy that improves sleep often lifts overall wellbeing. See more on sleep & mental health.
What is narcissistic projection?
Projection is attributing one’s own unwanted feelings or traits to others (e.g., accusing others of arrogance while struggling with one’s self-image). Recognising projection can reduce conflict and increase self-awareness.
What mental illness causes excessive talking?
Can occur with ADHD, anxiety (nervous talk), or manic/hypomanic episodes (pressured speech) in bipolar spectrum conditions. A professional assessment can clarify what’s driving it.
What is it called when you make up stories in your head and believe them?
It depends on context. It can be rumination or anxious “what-ifs,” but in some conditions can involve delusional beliefs or confabulation (memory-related). If it’s persistent or distressing, seek an assessment.
What is displaced anger?
Displaced anger is directing anger away from its true source toward a safer target. Skills include identifying triggers, pausing, and communicating needs assertively.
What is the emotional detachment mechanism?
Emotional detachment can be a protective strategy (or dissociative response) after stress/trauma—feeling “numb,” checked-out or disconnected. Therapy aims to restore safe connection and flexible emotional range.
What is sublimation in mental health?
Sublimation is a mature defence where intense or socially unacceptable impulses are channelled into constructive outlets (e.g., art, sport, advocacy), converting energy into growth over time.
What is an example of sublimated trauma?
Someone with anger from past harm takes up boxing for discipline and release, or turns pain into creative work or advocacy—finding meaning while reducing harm.
What is BPD psychosis?
Some people with Borderline Personality Disorder experience brief, stress-related psychotic-like symptoms (e.g., transient paranoia or dissociation). Persistent psychosis warrants urgent review to rule out other causes.
What is EMDR therapy?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing) helps the brain reprocess traumatic memories so they’re less distressing. It’s used for PTSD, anxiety and more. Learn about EMDR here.
What is humanistic therapy?
A client-centred approach emphasising empathy, authenticity and your capacity for growth. Therapists provide a non-judgemental space to explore values, choices and meaning.
What is passive trauma?
People use this to describe ongoing, lower-level exposure to stress or conflict (e.g., chronic criticism) that accumulates over time. Effects can mirror trauma responses (hypervigilance, low mood); support focuses on safety, boundaries and skills.
What are 7 questions a psychologist would ask?
Common intake questions include: 1) What brings you today? 2) When did it start/change? 3) What makes it better/worse? 4) How is it affecting home/work/relationships/sleep? 5) History of supports, therapy, medications? 6) Safety (self/others), substance use? 7) What would improvement look like?
What are the 4 things psychologists seek to do?
Traditionally: Describe behaviour/experience, Explain causes, Predict when it occurs, and Influence (help change) it ethically.
What is the hardest mental illness to live with?
Impact varies person-to-person. Conditions like severe depression, bipolar disorder with frequent episodes, schizophrenia, complex PTSD and severe eating disorders can be very challenging. Early, coordinated care improves outcomes.
What is the psychology behind someone who is always angry?
Often unmet needs, chronic stress, learned patterns, or underlying anxiety/depression/trauma. Therapy builds awareness, nervous-system regulation and assertive communication.
Is displaced anger a mental disorder?
No—it’s a pattern/defence, not a diagnosis. It’s workable with skills and support.
What kind of trauma causes emotional detachment?
Both acute events and chronic/relational trauma can lead to shutting down or numbness. Treatment focuses on safety, connection and gradual re-engagement.
What are the signs of emotional withdrawal?
Numbness, low drive, avoiding closeness, minimal eye contact, short replies, loss of pleasure. These can overlap with depression, trauma or burnout—assessment can help.
What is DBT?
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy teaches skills in mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness—helpful for intense emotions and impulse control. See our DBT information.
What mental illness causes passive-aggressive behavior?
Passive-aggression is a communication pattern, not a diagnosis. It can show up with stress, anxiety, depression or certain personality styles. Skills training can improve direct, respectful communication.
What is emotional damage?
A non-clinical phrase people use for the lingering impact of hurtful events (e.g., trauma, neglect). Therapy can help process experiences and build resilience.
What are the 5 basic psychological needs?
Different models exist. In Choice Theory: survival, love/belonging, power/achievement, freedom, fun. In Self-Determination Theory: autonomy, competence, relatedness.
What is the best therapy for anxiety?
CBT has strong evidence; other helpful options include ACT, EMDR (for trauma-linked anxiety) and mindfulness-based therapies. The “best” is the one that fits you. See anxiety treatment options.
What are positive symptoms of schizophrenia?
Hallucinations, delusions, and disorganised speech/behaviour. Negative symptoms include flat affect, low motivation and social withdrawal.
What is BPD?
Borderline Personality Disorder involves patterns of intense emotions, relationship sensitivity, identity shifts and impulsivity. Effective treatments include DBT and schema-informed approaches.
What is high-functioning BPD?
A non-clinical term people use when someone maintains roles (work/study) but still struggles internally. Support and skills can greatly help.
What is anosognosia?
A reduced awareness of one’s illness or deficits—seen in some neurological and psychiatric conditions. It’s not denial; it reflects brain-based changes. Support focuses on engagement and practical safety.