Clinical Psychologist PHILIPPA EWER

I am a mother to four children, a 9-year old son, and three daughters who are 7, 5 and 3.  My children have paved the way for an authentic knowing of the complexities and wonders becoming and being a parent entails. My transition to parenthood has led me through a process of deep self discovery, also influencing my role as a Clinical Psychologist in many ways.

My family and I, originally from Sydney NSW, moved to Brisbane at the beginning of 2024, after living in Auckland, New Zealand for 5 years. I love to immerse myself in nature, music and singing.

I obtained my Masters of Clinical Psychology at Macquarie University, Sydney. I have had clinical experience working in a variety of settings, such as in NSW Health, Disability Support Services, Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation Services, Student Support Services, along with Private Practice both here in Australia and also in New Zealand.

I am known for having a warm, caring, supportive and empowering presence. In my practice, I work closely with my clients to navigate the best path forward. This often involves reflecting on and processing earlier life experiences to facilitate growth and healing. In turn, providing the opportunity for clients to develop a deeper understanding of themselves and how they connect with others.

I work through a non-pathologising lens, appreciating the role different aspects within each of us play, welcoming everyone as they are, however that may be. I am committed to tailoring the therapeutic approach to fit each client's unique needs, using a holistic model of care to support clients in reaching their goals.

I provide support to clients at various life stages, including perinatal, young adults, adults, and those navigating mid-life. I offer care that is neuroaffirming, LGBTQ+ inclusive, and culturally sensitive.

I use the following evidence based therapies in her practice:

• Internal Family Systems (IFS)
• Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)
• Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)

 Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a form of therapy that is compassionate, inclusive, and profoundly healing. IFS recognises that we are made up of many different parts, offering a way of understanding our thoughts, feelings and behaviours. IFS helps to illuminate and alleviate unwanted emotional patterns, increasing emotional regulation, self-compassion, and resolution of internal conflicts.

IFS is a practice of “being with yourself” that you can take into your everyday life.

IFS can help parents understand and manage their internal dynamics, which in turn can positively impact their parenting approach. For example;

Understanding Internal Parts: IFS posits that individuals have various parts, each with their own perspectives and emotions. In parenting, recognising these internal parts - such as the nurturing part, the anxious part, or the critical part - can help parents understand their own reactions and behaviours.

Managing Emotional Triggers: IFS holds the space for parents to recognise and get to know their emotional triggers. Getting to know what is activated during stressful parenting moments, provides opportunity for clarity, compassion and choice in how to respond.

Improving Parent-Child Relationships: IFS can shift parents to approach their children's internal experiences with empathy and understanding. By recognising that children also have their own internal experiences, parents can respond more sensitively to their children’s needs and emotions. This approach fosters a more supportive and connected parent-child relationship.

Facilitating Family Dynamics: IFS can be applied to the broader family system by exploring how different family members’ internal experiences interact with each other. Understanding these dynamics can help in resolving conflicts, improve communication, and foster a more harmonious family environment.

Overall, IFS offers a framework for parents to explore their inner world, heal past hurts, and develop a more conscious and empathetic approach to parenting. 

IFS fosters the opportunity for parents to recognise and address their internal conflicts, leading to more thoughtful and supportive interactions with their children.