Belinda Thurlow
My path into therapy has been guided by a genuine curiosity about people and the many ways we come to understand ourselves. Early on, I was drawn to experiences that took me beyond the familiar—experiences that broadened my perspective and deepened my ability to sit with complexity, uncertainty, and difference.
An important aspect of this work involves developing a deeper understanding of emotions and their origins - supporting individuals not only in alleviating symptoms, but in addressing the underlying patterns that may limit fulfilment. The aim is to foster greater self-understanding, new perspectives, healthier ways of relating to oneself and others, and a more meaningful and satisfying life.
Alongside my clinical work, I bring 14 years of experience in executive and organisational leadership.
My own experience of therapy has also been an important foundation for my work. It led me toward a psychodynamic approach, which recognises the therapeutic relationship itself as central to lasting change. I see therapy as a space where patterns can be explored with care, understood more deeply, and gradually shifted within a safe and trusting connection.
How I practice
My clinical practice is informed by relational psychoanalytic and contemporary psychodynamic theories, alongside trauma-informed approaches. Psychodynamic therapy supports individuals not only in alleviating symptoms, but in addressing the underlying patterns that may limit fulfilment. I also draw on other evidence-based frameworks, including Music Therapy, where appropriate and responsive to an individual’s needs.
I work with adults experiencing a range of emotional, relational, and trauma-related difficulties, including complex trauma presentations, personality-related patterns, and experiences that have felt difficult to shift through previous support.
Rather than speaking about your experiences from a distance, we gently explore how thoughts, feelings, and relational patterns arise in the here-and-now of each session. Together, we begin to notice how you experience emotions, relate to others, and make sense of yourself. Over time, this can support a clearer understanding of your inner world, help shift patterns that feel stuck, and create links between past experiences and present ways of relating.
Education
The Conversational Model of Adult Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy, Australian and New Zealand Association of Psychotherapy, 2026 (current)
Endorsed Proficient Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner, Ability Consultants, 2022
Master’s in Creative Music Therapy, Western Sydney University, 2011
Trainings
Understanding Dissociation and how to work with it, Eise Education, 2025
Trauma, Attachment and Neuroscience short course, Byron Clinics, 2023
Empowering Leadership Coach, Priacta, 2022
Adult Intellectual Disability Mental Health Program , NSW Health - Statewide Intellectual Disability Mental Health Outreach, 2022
Working therapeutically with Complex Trauma, Blue Knot Foundation, 2019
Australian Neurological Music Therapy Training, Neurological Music Therapy Institute, 2014
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I work every Friday morning until 2pm. Please enquire to learn more about my current availability.
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Individuals | 50 minutes
$150 (GST inclusive)
Some reduced fee spots available, please inquire
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Trainee Member of Australia and New Zealand Association of Psychotherapy (ANZAP)
Full Member of Australian Music Therapy Association (AMTA)
Full member of Behaviour Support Practitioners Australia (BSPA)
I adhere to established professional and ethical guidelines, maintaining confidentiality, appropriate boundaries, and respect for each client’s autonomy. My practice is guided by ongoing supervision, and a commitment to providing safe, competent, and ethical care at all times.
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Whilst medicare and private health rebates are not available, NDIS funding may be utilised for plans or self managed participants
The Place Within operates on the land of the Yugarabul, Yuggera, Jagera and Turrbal Peoples. We acknowledge these peoples as the traditional custodians of this land. We pay respect to Elders past and present and extend that respect to all First Nations Peoples. We are committed to honouring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples’ wisdom, culture, dreaming and ongoing connection to Country. Sovereignty was never ceded.
We also recognise the strength and diversity of all marginalised communities, including LGBTQIA+ people, and are committed to fostering an inclusive, affirming space for all.
