Valentina Markovska

As a Psychologist I am passionate about supporting people to move toward wellbeing and an authentic connection to their lives. I am a member of the Australian Association of Psychologists Inc (AAPi) and have over fifteen years’ experience working in the therapeutic space, in a variety of settings including research, primary care and community services. My approach is person-centred, evidence-based and I work collaboratively with adult individuals exploring opportunities to build awareness, reduce suffering and improve perspective.

I use an integrative approach that is informed by biological, social, cultural, neuroscientific and attachment influences. The various therapeutic approaches utilized include; Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Schema Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), in addition to other mindfulness-based and trauma-informed approaches.

The areas I work with include:

• Anxiety and/or depression
• Grief and loss
• Substance misuse and addiction issues
• Trauma and the ongoing effects of early childhood adversity
• Low self-esteem and self-worth
• Life transitions
• Stress-related difficulties and management
• Motivation and goal setting

I have a real interest in working with women who have become trapped playing a supporting role in life. Many have been taught to put everyone else’s needs prior to their own and feel disconnected from their own and often, themselves. Assisting women to reconnect with their needs, build self-awareness and assert themselves can be enormously empowering for them.

I recognize too the ingrained barriers that men can at times experience in seeking psychological assistance. It is important to emphasize both the strength and vulnerability it takes to identify when external help is needed.
I pride myself on my ability to build a strong and effective therapeutic relationship where each individual feels safe, heard and supported along their wellbeing journey.

Further, with a background in human resource management and years of experience providing Employee Assistance Program (EAP) services, I have significant knowledge of the interpersonal dynamics of workplaces and the role professional life plays in identity and wellbeing.

I have a broad perspective on psychological health including an emphasis on mind, body, lifestyle factors and self-compassion. Beyond education and training, my work as a therapist is informed by interest in working with the mind and body, as well as my own practice in yoga and meditation.
During my down time I enjoy exploring the environment around me and cooking up a storm for loved ones. I am most at home when in nature or curled up on the lounge reading a book.