Emily Scanlan
Psychologist
⦿ BA. Ec. Soc (Psych), MIL, MA, PG Dip (Psych) Applied Psych (Cert)
⦿ Registered Psychologist
⦿ Associated Member of the Australian Psychological Society
⦿ Accredited Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner by the Department of the Federal Attorney General
⦿ Member of the Queensland Association of Collaborative Practitioners
⦿ Member of Resolution Institute
⦿ Member of the Family Law Practitioners Association of Queensland
Hello, I’m Emily,
Hello, I’m Emily and I have been working in private practice for over a decade, as well as in hospitals and universities.
I am passionate about finding the right evidenced-based treatment for each client to help shift symptoms of depression, anxiety or burnout and help my clients navigate life’s challenges and transitions. My style is empathic but also challenging. Therapy is likely to focus on making changes in thinking and behaviour. I draw in evidenced-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Mindfulness to lift mood and assist in recovery from depression.
With a special interest in the role of healthy relationships in good mental health, I have trained in Gottman therapy to help strengthen intimate relationships and improve communication. For clients exploring existential questions about leading a meaningful life, I’m also trained in Existential Therapy. (You can read more about this in “Leading Minds” from the Sydney University Alumni Magazine.)
I also have a particular passion for supporting couples through separation and divorce, and I am a registered Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner to help families (separated or intact) in reaching agreements and developing shared goals. I believe it is possible for children to thrive and families to function well after divorce. Working closely with family lawyers, I help minimise conflict and guide families toward resolution. My approach may include:
Effective Communication for Co-Parents: Assisting parents in transitioning their children into two happy homes.
Parenting Plans: Developing plans that reflect the needs of children at each stage of development.
Family Dispute Resolution: Providing mediation to help families reach agreements on parenting matters as they arise.
Family Transitions: Overcoming challenges unique to step-parenting, blended families, parenting on your own.
On-Going Mediation: Supporting families with ongoing mediation when required.
Collaborative Practice: Working alongside lawyers as a communications coach to minimise conflict, support mental health, and facilitate agreements.
Supporting mental health in academic settings is also close to my heart. I’ve served on the University of Sydney External Advisory Committee to the Government Faculty for over ten years and on the University of Sydney Alumni Council.
Before becoming a psychologist, I worked as an Executive Level Officer with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and as a journalist with the ABC. I also hold a Master’s in International Law and a Master’s in Journalism.
I look forward to working with you at Therapywell and supporting you on your journey toward well-being and resolution.
Interventions
I use a variety of therapeutic modalities and believe in tailoring therapy to suit each individual’s unique needs. My approach is integrative and holistic, focusing on the connection between mind and body. I often draw from techniques in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness, Existential Therapy, and Family Dispute Resolution. My goal is to create a supportive space where we can collaboratively explore strategies that work best for you.
Areas of Interest include Adjustment Issues, Anxiety, Anger Management, Attachment Difficulties, Burnout, Depression, Divorce and Separation, Effective Co-Parenting, Family Relationships, Interpersonal and Relationship Concerns, Parenting Support, Self-Esteem and Self-Worth, and Trauma.
I’m also passionate about supporting families through separation and divorce, working collaboratively with family lawyers to minimise conflict and create positive outcomes for children and parents.