ABOUT ME
Hey there! I'm Katie. I'm a Clinical Psychologist, Gottman Certified Couples Therapist, and like you a perfectly imperfect human navigating life and relationships in a way that aligns with my values.
I believe everyone has the capacity to change, to live their best life, to be their best self, to have meaningful fulfilling relationships. With a commitment to change and a willingness to do the work, anything is possible. But we all need a little help, a roadmap for change. I’m passionate about connecting people with the knowledge, resources, and tools to live the life they want.
I think ultimately we all want to be more connected to the ones we love, but often there is something that stops us from expressing our true feelings or asking for what we need. We may struggle to get our partner to understand our experience, to see and appreciate us for who we are. And that’s where I come in.
I am passionate about helping couples remove the roadblocks to connection.
It was about 20 years ago, at a camp in Canada, that I first found my passion for this work.
Most of the people that worked at camp had been coming there since they were kids. Camp was their safe place, a place where they could be their authentic selves, a place filled with joy, fun and laughter. Camp taught me what it means to love what you do everyday, to bounce out of bed excited for the day ahead. I’m incredibly grateful that this experience created the foundation for my career. But most importantly I learnt the importance of establishing a safe space, the power of pleasure and connection, important foundations for relationships.
Dr Katie Stirling
BBus (Man) GradDipPsychSt BSc(Hons) DPsych(Clin) MAPS MACPA
Katie is a registered clinical psychologist, board approved supervisor and certified gottman couples therapist. Katie’s approach to treatment is collaborative, and tailored to each couple’s needs. Her open, compassionate, and caring approach allows her clients to feel relaxed and comfortable within the therapeutic environment. Katie is committed to her ongoing professional development and staying up to date with the latest research and treatment approaches. She draws on a variety of evidence-based methods in tailoring treatment for each individual couple.
Prior to establishing her boutique psychology practice on the Mornington Peninsula, Katie spent most of her career in the not-for-profit sector developing, implementing and managing community wellbeing programs and family services. Katie believes that relationships are an integral part of an individual's happiness and overall well-being. She is passionate about helping couples to build the relationship they want.
Katie now only works exclusively with couples in retreat format.
Katie is committed to a preventative approach and has recently created a range of online relationship and wellness masterclasses.
DOCTOR PSYCHOLOGY (CLINICAL)
Clinical Psychologist, board approved supervisor, registered with AHPRA.
CERTIFIED
GOTTMAN COUPLES THERPIST
Certified Couples Therapist with the Gottman Institute.
SEXOLOGY
Currently completing a Masters of Sexology.
Education
As a clinical psychologist, I am driven by science, data and hard evidence. I have over 15 years experience in the wellbeing and relationship field. I am fortunate to have trained in Seattle with John and Julie Gottman and been awarded my certification through the Gottman Institute (there are less than 30 Certified Gottman Therapists in Australia). I’ve also completed training in a range of other couples therapy models including Schema Therapy for couples and Emotion Focussed Therapy.
I have done a LOT of study, including a doctorate in clinical psychology. If you’d told me 20 years ago that I would “graduate” from university 4 times and go back for a 5th I wouldn’t have believed you. Back then I was a big believer in learning through experience – I still am. But the more I learn, the more I realise there is to learn, so I'm back again studying a Masters of Sexology.
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