About Me

Carla Giardina, Psychologist.

Carla GIardina

Psychologist & Family Therapist

The Heart Behind My Work

An Introduction to how I show up in this work- with curiosity, care & connection.

Hi, I’m Carla Giardina (pronounced Jar-dee-nah, in case you’re wondering!) - a registered psychologist with over a decade of experience working alongside individuals, adolescents, and families.

I offer a warm, reflective space where people can slow down, feel heard, and make sense of what matters most. I often work with clients navigating transition, uncertainty, or relational strain, and I’m committed to creating a space that feels steady, respectful, and grounded.

Why I Became a Psychologist

My curiosity about human behaviour- how we connect, adapt, and find meaning - has been a lifelong journey. This fascination naturally led me to psychology, where I could combine empathy with evidence-based practice to support others. As I delved deeper, I recognized the profound impact of relationships and systems on individual well-being, prompting me to pursue further training in family and systemic therapy. Central to my work is a commitment to compassion, collaboration, and creating spaces where clients can reflect, connect, and grow.

Professional Background

I’m a registered General Psychologist with AHPRA and a member of the Australian Psychological Society.

Over the past decade, I’ve worked across a range of settings including disability services, education, mental health, family law, and private practice. I’ve supported children, adolescents, and adults through a wide variety of life experiences and mental health concerns.

I also hold a Master of Family and Systemic Therapy and bring a relational, systems-focused lens to my work. This means I pay close attention to the broader patterns, relationships, and contexts that influence wellbeing - not just individual symptoms in isolation.

Everyone’s story deserves space. I aim to create a respectful and inclusive environment for people of all identities, cultures, neurotypes, and family structures.

Qualifications

Bachelor of Behavioural Science, La Trobe University (2007)

Postgraduate Diploma of Psychology, Monash University (2008)

Master of Psychology (Counselling), Monash University (2010)

Master of Family and Systemic Therapy, Australian Catholic University (2025)

Woman seeking support holding a grey cup

  • Family difficulties

  • Relationship difficulties

  • Life Transitions

  • Parenting

  • Pregnancy

  • Stress Management

  • Loneliness

  • Self-esteem

  • Grief and Bereavement

  • Low Mood

  • Anxiety

Areas of Practice

Therapeutic Approach

My work is grounded in warmth, curiosity, and evidence-based practice. I draw from a range of therapeutic models to meet the needs of each client, including:

  • Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

  • Mindfulness

  • Perinatal Non-Directive Counselling

  • Attachment-Based Therapy

  • Emotion Focused Therapy

  • Dialectical Behaviour Therapy-informed approaches

  • Family and Systemic Therapy

Therapy with me is collaborative and respectful. I bring a relational lens to this work, supporting clients to make sense of their inner experiences while also considering the broader systems they’re part of.