How do I make an appointment?

If you require an appointment in South Yarra either face-to-face or via telehealth please phone 0402 217 217.

If you would like to enquire online about available appointments, please click the following button and fill out the message box.

What about my privacy and confidentiality?

The confidentiality of your information is extremely important. Dr Sowden observes the Federal Privacy Laws, and the Code of Ethics required by the Psychology Board of Australia

What is Cognitive and Behavioral Therapy (CBT)?

CBT is a scientifically-researched and established treatment approach used by Clinical Psychologists in the management of a range of presentations. CBT has been demonstrated in numerous scientific research studies to produce clinically significant improvements in a wide range of mental illnesses. CBT is based on the relationship between the individual’s thoughts, feelings and behaviours. In CBT, the Clinical Psychologist and patient work collaboratively to identify, analyse, and understand the patient’s condition in terms of the interactions between these constructs. Treatment typically focuses on identifying thoughts and behaviours giving rise to distress or interfering with the patient’s life. A tailored treatment program is developed as a result of liaison with the patient with identified goals and strategies. The principle thrust of CBT is to empower the patient to generate cognitive and behavioural solutions to problematic aspects of his or her life. This may require that the patient completes exercises or tasks between sessions, such as identifying, and reappraising thoughts, and engaging in structured behavioural experiments consisting of newly learned skills.

What is the difference between a Psychologist and a Psychiatrist?

Psychologists and Psychiatrists both work in the area of mental health. They both conduct psychotherapy and research, and often work together. However, there are important differences between the two professions.

Psychologists receive graduate training in psychology. They do not have a medical degree. Specialist psychologists – such as Clinical Psychologists, Forensic Psychologists, or Educational & Developmental Psychologists – study a similar number of years to psychiatrists to attain their qualifications. Psychologists cannot prescribe medication. Psychologists’ treatments are based on changing and improving thinking styles and behaviours, and developing improved strategies for dealing with problematic situations. Psychologists’ treatments also focus on improving lifestyles.

Psychiatrists are qualified medical doctors who have specialized expertise in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental illnesses. Psychiatrists can prescribe medication.

Contact us today for more information on how we can help you.