I’m Anoushka Dowling, a compassionate psychologist dedicated to supporting individuals and communities through meaningful change and growth. With a foundation in evidence-based practice and a deep belief in human resilience, I guide clients to reclaim autonomy, foster self-reflection, and build healthier lives. My work is fuelled by genuine curiosity, empathy, and a commitment to authenticity and empowerment. It’s a privilege to walk alongside people on their journey toward clarity, healing, and renewed purpose.
Prior to becoming a psychologist, I was the Assistant Director of a violence prevention program at Griffith University. This educational initiative focused on the bystander’s role in preventing gender-based violence, harassment, racism and discrimination.
My time in this position fuelled my dedication to social justice, community empowerment, equity, inclusion, and safety. I also facilitated a Men’s Behaviour Change Program for the Domestic Violence Prevention Centre on the Gold Coast, which deepened my commitment to preventing Domestic and Family Violence and advocating for those affected.
What I noticed through my years of facilitating the men’s behaviour change program, was the need for participants to access individual support for complex mental health needs contributing to their use of abusive behaviour (untreated childhood trauma for example) and/or problematic substance use. I also recognised the need for skilled practitioners who understand the gendered drivers of violence and could work with people using abuse and violence, safely and effectively.
To fill this gap I had identified, I decided to continue my formal psychological studies at Bond University, graduating with an honours level degree in psychological science.
I am committed to making a difference in the lives of those affected by mental health challenges, addiction and/or violence, and fostering a community of support, understanding, and healing.
My mission is to share my learnings and increase the capacity of practitioners in the mental health and AOD space to respond safely and effectively to clients experiencing or using domestic and family violence.
To contribute to a world where every individual can access the support they need to thrive. My vision is a world in which every person believes in their capacity to make choices, exercise control over their own life and decisions, with an emphasis on empowerment.
In 2022, I commenced my psychological internship at the Mirikai Residential Treatment Facility, a Lives Lived Well program on the Gold Coast. This facility offers a 30-bed residential rehabilitation program for individuals aged 18-35 experiencing alcohol and/or drug (AOD) addiction.
I designed and implemented ‘Recognise. Reflect. Respect’ – an early intervention men’s program that comprehensively addressed controlling and abusive relationship patterns, as well as substance use, problem gambling, and mental health concerns. This program seamlessly integrates traditional men’s behaviour change group sessions with individual, personalised therapy – the holistic approach that I had long believed was missing in the Domestic and Family Violence sector.
At the heart of my work is a belief that real change is always possible, both for individuals and for the communities we belong to. Whether I am working with someone in crisis, supporting long-term healing, or shaping new approaches within the sector, my commitment remains the same: to create spaces where people feel seen, supported, and empowered to grow. This is the work that inspires me, it is my passion and my purpose.
I acknowledge the Kombumerri Saltwater people of the Yugumbeh language group as the traditional custodians of the land on which I live and work. I acknowledge the Aboriginal peoples who cared for this land for thousands of years before colonisation, and pay respect to their elders, past, present and future. I acknowledge that sovereignty was never ceded and this was and always will be Aboriginal land.