Dr Isabel Fernandez
Clinical Psychologist
BPsych, DPsych (Clinical)
Dr Isabel Fernandez is the Principal Clinical Psychologist. Dr Fernandez established her practice 17 years ago.
Dr Isabel Fernandez completed her Bachelor in Psychology and Doctorate in Psychology at Murdoch University. She has trained and worked in settings such as King Edward Memorial Hospital, Royal Perth Hospital, Disabilities Services Commission, the Health and Welfare Branch of the WA Police Service and the Osborne Division of General Practice.
Dr Isabel Fernandez completed her doctoral research with an exploration of the impact of Endometriosis on quality of life and well-being of women and their partners. Her research and work in private practice has been recognised with the Elaine Dignan Award, a national award for her contribution to women and psychology. She is published in international journals, has been invited as a lecturer and guest speaker at universities and forums. Dr Fernandez provides clinical supervision to other psychologists.
Isabel's approach and therapy style is summarised below:
"My special interest in psychology is trying to help my clients make sense of what is going on in their lives and how they think and feel about it and how they are responding to it. Much of my work involves helping people work through unresolved feelings surrounding their past or current circumstances and helping them to improve their coping in the present.
My therapeutic style is most aligned with client-centered therapy, also known as person-centered therapy or Rogerian therapy. In this approach, the client is considered an equal partner in the therapy process. It is intended to allow clients to fulfill that potential by relying on their own strength to change. I also understand as a therapist I guide my client in some ways. I draw on techniques including genuineness and congruence, unconditional positive regard and empathetic understanding to help my clients grow psychologically, become more self-aware, and change their behaviour via self-direction. I believe that creating a safe, non-judgemental and accepting space for my clients to explore their experiences and concerns is fundamental to the therapy I provide."
