A tapestry of global experience — Surita Stipp’s journey as a family therapist
Surita is a qualified senior social worker, counsellor, and family therapist, working in mental health for most of her career. She has over 18 years of experience working internationally and in Australia. Surita completed her social work qualification and is registered with the ASSW board. She has also finished studies in psychology, and in 2012, obtained her Masters in Couple and Family Therapy from the University of New South Wales. Surita is an accredited family dispute resolution practitioner.
With a heart that beats for the well-being of her clients, Surita’s journey in the realm of mental health is marked by her relentless pursuit of knowledge. Her academic achievements, paired with her hands-on experience, make her a beacon of hope for many seeking guidance. It’s clear that her passion for lifelong learning and for helping others are closely intertwined.
Empathy in action — Surita’s multifaceted therapeutic approach
Over Surita’s career, she has worked with street children, children in care, in the hospital setting with HIV-positive children and those diagnosed with diabetes. She also worked in the Adolescent Medicine Unit at Westmead Children’s Hospital in Sydney with the eating disorder team. Here, she was trained in the specialist Maudsley Family Therapy Model. Surita has worked with women escaping family and domestic violence, specifically from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. She feels passionate about advocating for vulnerable clients.
Throughout her practice, Surita uses a systemic perspective and draws from evidence-based techniques like CBT, EMDR and ACT to tailor a unique treatment plan for each client, couple, or family. In her work with children and adolescents, she uses play therapy techniques and art therapy, often including parents in some form — depending on the presentation. Most recently, she has worked as a family dispute resolution practitioner facilitating conflict resolution. She gained experience working with separating families and the impact on parents and children during this transition period.
Her vast experience, spanning different demographics and challenges, showcases her adaptability and deep-rooted commitment. Each story she hears, and each life she touches, adds to her drive — making her a cherished member of the Reach Life team.
Reach Life and Surita embody a mission to illuminate pathways to emotional well-being for Australians everywhere. Drawing from her international expertise and deep-rooted compassion, she offers a therapeutic touch. Whether you’re seeking understanding, healing, or growth, Surita is ready to journey alongside you, ensuring every step is meaningful and transformative.
FAQs
What types of clients has Surita worked with throughout her career?
As a dedicated child therapist, Surita has an extensive background working with a diverse range of clients. Over her career, she has assisted autistic and neurodiverse children, street children, children in care, HIV-positive children and those diagnosed with diabetes. She has also assisted women escaping family and domestic violence — especially those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. Additionally, Surita has experience working with families undergoing separation and understands the challenges parents and children face during such transitions. Surita has significant experience working with NDIS clients experiencing family conflict, autism, trauma and complex mental health issues. She also works with clients with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, OCD, experiencing domestic violence, emotional dysregulation and personality disorders. Surita works with couples as well as families.
How does Surita tailor her therapeutic approach to different clients and situations?
Surita employs a systemic perspective in her therapeutic approach, ensuring each treatment plan is uniquely tailored to the client. Depending on the client’s needs, she might incorporate play therapy, art therapy, or evidence-based techniques like CBT. Her Maudsley Family Therapy Model training also allows her to offer specialised care for those dealing with eating disorders.
What is Surita’s educational background and professional qualifications?
Surita is a qualified senior social worker and family therapist. She completed her social work qualification and is ASSW registered. Additionally, she has a psychology degree, and achieved her Master’s Degree in Couple and Family Therapy from the University of New South Wales. Surita is also Medicare Registered for Perinatal mental health counselling sessions and is affiliated with NDIS (Plan or self-managed) and DVA/Open Arms.
How can clients book sessions with Surita, and what types of issues does she address in therapy?
Clients can easily book sessions with Surita through the Reach Life website or by contacting the administrative team. In her therapy sessions, Surita addresses a wide range of issues, from mental health challenges to family disputes. As a proficient child therapist, her expertise spans working with children, adolescents, couples and families — guaranteeing a holistic approach to mental well-being.
What does a family therapist do?
A family therapist like Surita works with families, couples and individuals to foster communication, understanding and harmony within the family unit. They employ therapeutic techniques to address specific issues such as marital conflicts, child-parent disagreements, mental health disorders and other challenges that can affect family dynamics. Their primary goal is to help family members understand one another better, change negative behaviours and patterns and resolve conflicts in a constructive manner.
