Racquel

Racquel Nicholls is a Provisional Psychologist registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA). She completed her Master of Professional Psychology at the University of Newcastle and has recently submitted her PhD in Psychology, with a research focus on the assessment of obesity and eating disorders.

Racquel has nearly 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and families in a range of professional roles across private and public settings. Her background includes leadership and practice in childcare services, where she developed a strong understanding of child development and supported families and young people with diverse needs.

Through her university training and clinical placements, Racquel has worked with individuals across the lifespan experiencing various psychological concerns, including anxiety, depression, self-harm, behavioural difficulties, developmental trauma, and other complex psychological challenges. She values a collaborative and supportive therapeutic relationship and works within a supervised practice framework.

In her clinical work, Racquel draws on evidence-based therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Schema Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Interventions, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Therapy. Through collaborative efforts with young people, adults, and families, she identifies and implements realistic cognitive and behavioural strategies to meet their unique requirements. Racquel takes a person-centred, strengths-based approach and tailors interventions to each client’s goals and individual circumstances.

Racquel has a strong interest in trauma-informed and attachment-focused practice. She has training in psychological and developmental assessment, including assessments related to autism, ADHD, developmental delay, learning difficulties, behavioural challenges, and emotional concerns.

Outside of work, Racquel has a young family of her own and understands the joys and challenges that come with parenthood. She enjoys spending time outdoors with her family and exploring new places.