Make more room for the life you want.
With patience, curiosity and psychological expertise, James helps you make sense of what's getting in the way and work towards changes that matter to you.
Making a start
Sometimes knowing something needs to change is enough.
You might have a clear idea of exactly what you need to change, get clarity on or just get some help with. Sometimes it's a lot more complicated and tricky to put your finger on.
The first few sessions are about understanding what has been happening, what might be contributing to it, and what you would like to be different.
From there, James works with you to develop an approach that makes sense for you, drawing on established psychological therapies rather than forcing every person through the same process.
My aim is to understand the person in front of me, and using evidenced-based treatments, provide a tailored approach as we navigate challenges collaboratively.
Areas of support
People come to therapy for many different reasons.
James works with people from teens to adults across a broad range of concerns, including:
Common areas of support
- AnxietyDepression
- Grief & lossAnger
- Interpersonal issuesWorkplace difficulties
- Stress & burnoutBullying
- Self-confidenceLife changes
- PerfectionismPerformance challenges
Not sure whether what you're dealing with fits neatly into one of these areas? You're still welcome to get in touch.
How James works
Thoughtful, collaborative and practical.
James's style is warm and conversational, but therapy also has a purpose.
He'll take the time to understand your experience properly, ask questions that help you look at things differently, and work with you on changes that can make a meaningful difference outside the consulting room.
Therapeutic approaches
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Understanding the relationship between thoughts, feelings and behaviours, and developing practical strategies for change.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Building psychological flexibility: noticing difficult thoughts and feelings without being ruled by them, and taking action aligned with your values.
Schema Therapy
Exploring long-standing patterns in how you relate to yourself and others, often rooted in earlier experiences.
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
Focusing on relationships and life transitions as they connect to mood and wellbeing.
Meet James
About James
James Pearlman is a registered psychologist who works with teens and adults across a broad range of personal, emotional and work-related concerns.
His style is curious, down-to-earth and considered. He is interested not only in the problem someone brings to therapy, but the person around it.
Before psychology, James spent years in the corporate world, useful perspective on workplaces, leadership, pressure and career change.
He aims to make therapy a place where people can speak openly, think carefully and do useful work on what matters to them.
More about James
Starting therapy
What starting therapy looks like
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Get in touch
Send James a message or book an initial appointment. You don't need to explain everything beforehand.
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First appointment
Talk through what has been happening, what you'd like help with, and what you hope might be different.
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Decide where to focus
James will share his initial thoughts and you'll work out together what would be most useful to focus on.
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Take it from there
If it feels like a good fit, you can continue at a pace that makes sense for you. The focus can evolve as things become clearer.
Experience & training
Professional expertise, grounded in real-world experience.
James is a registered psychologist with postgraduate training in psychology and experience working with adolescents and adults across a broad range of concerns.
His work draws on evidence-based psychological approaches, ongoing professional development and a considered understanding of people in the context of their lives.
- AHPRA Registered Psychologist
- Master of Professional Psychology
- Evidence-based psychological practice
- Sydney · Telehealth Australia-wide
Common questions
Before your first appointment
A few practical things that may be useful to know before getting started.
What happens in the first session?
The first session is mostly a conversation. We'll talk about what brought you in, your history, and what you want to change, with no pressure to share more than you're comfortable with. By the end, we'll agree on next steps together.
Do I need a referral?
No, you can book directly. If you'd like a Medicare rebate under a Mental Health Treatment Plan, a referral from your GP can help, but it isn't required to start.
How long is a session?
Standard sessions run for 50 minutes. The first session runs a little longer so we have space to properly understand your situation.
Do you offer telehealth?
Yes, secure video sessions are available Australia-wide, and many clients move between in-person and telehealth depending on what suits them.
How often will we meet?
Most people start weekly or fortnightly, then space sessions out as things settle. We review this together and keep it flexible.