About You
ADOLESCENTS & YOUNG ADULTS
Therapy that Helps Young People Thrive
From anxiety and bullying to school refusal, we specialise in youth therapy and assessments for cognitive and learning needs.
ADULTS 25+
Mental Health Support for Adults at Every Stage
Whether you’re navigating stress, workplace trauma or relationships, we offer thoughtful, evidence-based therapy for adults.
DEFENCE CLIENTS
Trusted Support for Defence Personnel
Confidential, trauma-informed care tailored to the specific mental health needs of serving and ex-serving defence members.
Our Youth Mental Health Services
We work with young people struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, school refusal or the constant pressure to fit in. This stage of life is messy and the emotions associated with such challenges are incredibly intense. That’s on top of the daily challenge of managing school, friends and family.
Our approach is personal. We take the time to understand what’s happening and help them find better ways to cope. With a little guidance, teens can build confidence, repair or strengthen relationships, and make choices that feel right for them.
“Every person’s challenges are different, but with the right approach, teens, adults and defence members alike can move toward a life that feels more manageable.”
David Merrick, MAPS FCCLP
Working with Adults experiencing Various challenges
The teenage and young adult years are a time of self-discovery, and navigating relationships with others can be both rewarding and challenging. Learning to connect, communicate and find your place in the world is no small task.
Bullying, social struggles and a lack of belonging can lead to challenges like low mood, anxiety and school refusal. Neurodivergent youth may face additional difficulties with communication or emotional regulation, which adds complexity to social relationships. Addressing these struggles early helps young people build confidence, forge meaningful connections and thrive in their personal and academic lives.
Support for serving and ex-serving Defence members
Serving in the ADF can give you a sense of pride and purpose, as well as bonds you will never forget. But with that comes periods of pressure and uncertainty that can slowly wear you down. Whether you are still in uniform, transitioning to civilian life or caught between the two, time in service can take a toll on your mental health and the people close to you.
PTSD, anxiety or feeling lost are not signs of weakness. They are normal reactions to difficult experiences. With the right help, you can start to feel like yourself again and enjoy the things that matter most.
FAQs
Who do you work with?
We work with teens, young adults, adults and defence personnel, each with their own challenges and priorities. For some, it’s about navigating the pressures of school, work or relationships. For others, it may involve managing anxiety, depression, grief, burnout, trauma or the unique stresses of military life. We adapt our approach to each person and ensure the support is relevant and realistic for their circumstances.
Do you offer therapy for defence personnel and veterans?
Yes. Our principal psychologist, David Merrick, has personal experience as a military reservist and a strong understanding of ADF culture, language and expectations. We work with both current and ex-serving members, as well as their families, on challenges such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship strain and transitioning into civilian life. Therapy is confidential, practical and respectful, with a focus on restoring function, improving relationships and building strategies that work in everyday life, whether you’re still in service or adjusting after leaving.
What mental health challenges do you commonly see in teens and young adults?
Many young people we see are dealing with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, bullying, school refusal or the constant pressure to perform and “fit in.” Some are adjusting to big changes like moving schools, navigating friendships or beginning to live more independently. For neurodivergent teens and young adults, challenges around communication or emotional regulation can add extra complexity. We create a safe space to talk openly, understand what’s driving the struggle and develop strategies to help them feel more confident, connected and capable.
Do you also provide assessments as well as therapy?
Yes. In addition to therapy, we provide assessments for ADHD, learning difficulties such as dyslexia or dysgraphia, giftedness and behavioural or emotional concerns. These assessments can give a clear picture of strengths and challenges to guide the right support both in and outside of school or work. After the assessment, we provide a detailed report and talk through the results with you. We’ll outline practical recommendations and next steps to support learning, wellbeing and overall growth.
Key Takeaways
Personalised therapy and assessments
For teens, adults and defence personnel in Sydney, with a focus on practical solutions that fit real life challenges.
Evidence-based, tailored strategies
For managing stress, relationships and life transitions delivered with respect and understanding.
Confidential, judgement-free support
For anxiety, depression, PTSD, school refusal and more, guided by extensive experience across multiple mental health settings.
Structured yet flexible approach designed
To create meaningful change, strengthen resilience, and help you navigate challenges with clarity and purpose.
We Help People Struggling With
We offer a safe and supportive environment to assist teenagers, adults and defence clients with issues such as anxiety, depression, bullying, social difficulties, school refusal, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, substance use and disruptive behaviour. Guided by David’s philosophy that ‘none of us can do life alone,’ we encourage a thoughtful and proactive approach to seeking the support everyone deserves.
School Refusal
Self Harm
Suicidal Thoughts
Disruptive Behaviour
Anxiety
Depression
Bullying
Social Issues
Substance Abuse
Trauma Recovery
Workplace Challenges
PTSD
Adjustment Issues
Get in touch
Taking the first step toward support can feel overwhelming, but it’s also a decisive demonstration of strength.
At NextGen Psychology, we’re here to listen, offer guidance, and help you or your loved one move forward. Reach out today, and let’s begin a conversation that can bring positive, lasting change.
Suite 2, Level 4
66 Pacific Highway, St Leonards
NSW 2065
66 Pacific Highway, St Leonards
NSW 2065