Holistic mental health care
for every stage of life
Psychotherapy, Counselling and EMDR in Hervey Bay (Butchella Country), Burleigh Heads (Yugambeh Country) and Australia-wide via Telehealth.
Sage House offers support with...
Processing trauma & abuse
Whether you've experienced a distressing event, trauma or ongoing abuse, we can help you heal and regain a sense of safety and control.
Managing depression, anxiety & stress
If low mood, constant worry, and overwhelm are affecting your daily life, we provide a place to understand the cause and provide strategies to restore balance and calm.
Navigating painful grief & loss
Loss can be painful, isolating and all consuming. We offer compassionate support to help you process emotions and adjust to life changes.
Improving relationships & family dynamics
Whether it's romantic, family, friends, or workplace relationships, therapy can help improve communication skills, strengthen connections and resolve conflicts.
Nurturing fertility challenges, parenting & attachment
Fertility challenges, pregnancy, and parenting can be complex. We offer support to strengthen connections, manage stress, and build confidence.
Healing from domestic & family violence
We offer a trauma-informed space to process experiences, regain confidence, and rebuild safety in your life.
Empowering neurodiverse & LGBTQIA+ clients
We pride ourselves on creating a safe and affirming space for neurodiverse and LGBTQIA+ individuals to explore identity, navigate challenges, and embrace strengths.
Overcoming addiction & substance abuse
If you're struggling with addiction or unhealthy coping strategies, therapy can help you address the root causes, heal, and regain control of your life.
Recovering from eating disorders
Difficulties with diet and food, body image and self esteem can be overwhelming. We offer a compassionate space empowering you to develop a healthier relationship with food, your body and your mind.
A safe space to heal & grow
At your own pace, in your own way—therapy should feel safe, supportive, and empowering. Take the first step toward healing with professional, evidence based, compassionate care.
Who we are
Welcome to Sage House, a place where healing begins with the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Based in Hervey Bay and Burleigh Heads, our practice offers a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment for individuals, couples, and families seeking meaningful change.
We believe that therapy should be as unique as you are. Our approach is holistic, trauma-informed, and person-centred, combining warmth with clinical expertise to help you feel understood, empowered, and equipped to move forward with your life.
At Sage House, we recognise the powerful connection between emotional health, relationships, lifestyle, and lived experience. Whether you are navigating trauma, depression and anxiety, relationship issues or a major life transition, we’re here to support your journey with care that is both affirming and evidence-based.

Meet our team
Learn more about the people who make Sage House
Courtney Pedwell (she/her)
Online & in person appointments in Burleigh Heads
Sometimes the things we’ve experienced stay with us long after they have happened. Trauma, abuse, neglect, loss and difficult relationships can shape the way we see ourselves, connect with others and navigate the world. You might find yourself feeling anxious, overwhelmed, disconnected, stuck in familiar patterns or struggling with your sense of self-worth. Perhaps you understand why you feel the way you do, but still find it difficult to move forward. You don’t have to keep carrying everything on your own.
I am an experienced trauma psychotherapist and social worker, specialising in helping people process and recover from distressing experiences, heal the impact of trauma and develop a more compassionate relationship with themselves.
With a particular focus on PTSD, complex and developmental trauma, I work with people who have experienced childhood abuse, neglect, domestic and family violence, sexual trauma, attachment wounds, grief and loss, traumatic events and other experiences that have impacted their emotional wellbeing. I also support people navigating anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, difficulties with emotional regulation, relationship patterns, neurodivergence, and the emotional challenges of pregnancy, the antenatal and perinatal period, and parenthood.
I use an integrative, trauma-informed approach, drawing on Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and trauma-informed Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). These approaches allow us to go beyond simply talking about what has happened, supporting you to process unresolved experiences, understand protective patterns, work through difficult emotions and create meaningful, lasting change.
I recognise that trauma doesn’t look the same for everyone. It can show up as anxiety, people-pleasing, perfectionism, difficulty trusting others, feeling constantly on edge, emotional numbness, shame, self-criticism or struggling to feel safe in relationships. Sometimes, the connection between past experiences and present-day difficulties isn’t immediately obvious.
My approach is compassionate, collaborative and grounded in the understanding that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to healing. I take the time to understand your story, your experiences and what you need from therapy, creating a space where you can feel heard, understood and accepted without judgement. I am particularly passionate about providing inclusive, affirming support for LGBTQIA+ individuals and neurodivergent clients.
Whether you’re beginning to explore the impact of past experiences, working through long standing patterns or simply wanting to feel more like yourself again, I will meet you where you are and work alongside you at a pace that feels safe and manageable.
Qualifications:
- Accredited EMDR Practitioner
- Master of Social Work
- Bachelor of Human Services
- Domestic & Family Violence Practice Framework
- Emotional Freedom Technique
- Circle of Security Parenting Program
Veruschka Marais (she/her)
Online appointments only
I am a compassionate therapist with over 15 years of experience in couples and family therapy, specialising in couples counselling, complex family dynamics, court-ordered family therapy and clinical supervision.
I help couples and families improve communication, resolve conflict, rebuild trust and strengthen emotional connections, supporting relationships to not just survive, but thrive.
When separation is necessary, I believe there is a better way forward. I support parents to navigate separation with less conflict, greater understanding and a shared focus on their children's emotional wellbeing.
In court-ordered family therapy, I help families work through past hurts, reduce conflict and rebuild healthier family and co-parenting relationships, with a strong commitment to positive, child-focused outcomes.
I also provide clinical supervision to counsellors across all areas of practice, with a particular interest in supporting couples, family and relationship counsellors.
My approach is warm, empathetic and practical, offering a safe, non-judgemental space where support is tailored to your unique needs, circumstances and goals.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor of Counselling
- Graduate Diploma of Professional Supervision
- Clinical Level PAFCA Accredited
- Level 2 Gottman Couples Counselling
- Level 2 Emotion Focused Therapist
- Tuning Into Teens Facilitator
Natasha Smith (she/her)
Online and in person appointments in Hervey Bay
I’m Tash, a counsellor who works with individuals of all ages, offering a warm, grounded, and supportive space where you can show up exactly as you are. I take a gentle, collaborative approach, meeting you at your pace and tailoring our work to your unique needs and experiences. Whether you’re navigating trauma, relationship challenges, emotional overwhelm, or a significant life transition, I’m here to support you in finding clarity, relief, and a way forward that feels right for you.
I have a strong interest in relational dynamics, including attachment patterns, family systems, and the impacts of coercive control. I understand how complex and disorienting these experiences can be, and I work alongside you to explore and untangle these patterns—helping you rebuild your sense of self and develop healthier, more empowering ways of relating to yourself and others. My approach is trauma-informed and person-centred, drawing on evidence-based practices while remaining flexible and responsive.
I deeply value authenticity and believe that feeling safe, supported, and genuinely seen is the foundation for meaningful change. Together, we’ll work toward building resilience, strengthening self-understanding, and helping you reconnect with who you are beneath life’s challenges.
Qualifications:
- Graduate Certificate Neuroscience
- Master of Counselling
- Bachelor of Psychological Science
- Training in Employee Assistance
Theo Eleftheriou (he/him)
Online & in person appointments in Hervey Bay
Life doesn’t always go to plan. Relationships can become complicated, unexpected changes can leave us feeling unsettled, and sometimes we find ourselves facing challenges that are difficult to navigate alone. You might be feeling overwhelmed, struggling to make sense of a situation, or simply wanting a space to talk things through and gain a fresh perspective.
I believe counselling should be a space where you can be yourself, speak openly and feel genuinely listened to. Since 2017, I have supported individuals and couples through a range of personal, emotional and relationship challenges. My approach is relaxed, supportive and down-to-earth, with a focus on building a genuine connection and working together towards what matters most to you.
I work with people experiencing anxiety, stress, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, domestic and family violence, separation, co-parenting challenges and concerns around confidence and self-worth. Whether you’re working through a difficult relationship, adjusting to a new chapter in life or feeling stuck and unsure about what comes next, I aim to help you make sense of your circumstances and find a way forward.
My therapeutic approach draws on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing and Solution-Focused Therapy. I use these approaches flexibly, depending on what you need, helping you explore unhelpful patterns, recognise your strengths, consider new perspectives and develop practical strategies that translate into everyday life.
I understand that reaching out for counselling isn’t always easy. You don’t need to know exactly what you want to talk about or have a clear idea of what needs to change. Sometimes, having the opportunity to slow down, talk openly and feel heard is a valuable place to start.
If you’re considering counselling, I invite you to book an appointment. Whether you have something specific you’d like to work through or simply feel ready for a change, I’d be glad to work alongside you, helping you find clarity, build confidence and take the next steps towards a life that feels more manageable and fulfilling.
Qualifications:
- Master of Counselling
- Graduate Diploma of Psychology
- Bachelor of Science (Psychology)
- Level 4 Registered Member – Australian Counselling Association
- Accredited FOCCUS Facilitator
Miranda Sleath (she/her)
Miranda is the organisational backbone of Sage House, ensuring the day-to-day operations run smoothly and efficiently. From managing enquiries to coordinating appointments, she provides essential support behind the scenes—helping create a calm and professional experience for both clients and practitioners.
With a welcoming presence and exceptional organisational skills, Miranda is often the first point of contact for new clients. She is passionate about creating a space where people feel supported and cared for, and brings kindness, clarity, and professionalism to every interaction.
Whether you’re reaching out with a question, scheduling an appointment, or navigating your next steps, Miranda is here to make the process seamless and supportive—bringing the heart of Sage House into every connection.
Disco (he/him)
Disco is our sweet and playful Mini Poodle who’s currently in training to become a certified therapy dog. He loves cuddles, chasing toys, and occasionally gets a case of the zoomies!
As part of his training, Disco may join us at the clinic from time to time for socialisation and exposure. While he’s working hard to become a calm and comforting presence, we understand not everyone is comfortable around dogs.
If you’d prefer not to have Disco present during your appointment, please let our admin team know when booking—we are happy to accommodate clients' preferences.
Healing isn’t about fixing what’s ‘wrong’ with you—it’s about understanding yourself, processing what’s been, and creating a future where you feel safe, empowered, and in control.

Our approach to holistic mental health
At Sage House, your well-being is at the heart of everything we do. Our goal is to help you build resilience, restore balance, and reconnect with a life that feels aligned, grounded, and fulfilling. We work with clients of all ages and life stages - providing neuro-inclusive, culturally aware, and LGBTQIA+ affirming support.
As registered providers with WorkCover, NDIS, and selected Private Health Funds, we’re committed to making mental health care accessible to those who need it most. If you’re ready to take the next step toward healing and well-being, reach out today to make a booking enquiry.
Our therapeutic approaches include:
- Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing (EMDR)
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT)
- Somatic & Mindfulness Therapy
- Motivational Interviewing (MI)
- Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT)
- Attachment-Based Therapy
- Gottman Method
- Solution-Focused Therapy
- Narrative Therapy
- Family Mediation
- Emotionally Focused Therapy
- Clinical Supervision
Supports
We offer a range of appointment types to suit you
In-person appointments
Psychotherapy, Counselling and EMDR sessions are available at our coastal clinics located in Hervey Bay (Butchella Country) and Burleigh Heads (Yugambeh Country).
Book now
Telehealth appointments
Attend therapy from the comfort of your own home with Telehealth sessions available Australia-wide.
Book nowSupporting you every step of the way
Healing isn’t a journey you have to take alone. Whether you’re facing challenges, seeking clarity, or ready for change, we’re here to help.
Frequently asked questions
We understand that starting therapy comes with a lot of questions. To help you feel informed and comfortable, we’ve answered some of the most common questions below. If there’s anything else you’d like to know, please reach out.
How can I book an appointment?
The easiest way to book an appointment at Sage House is through our website by clicking here or by emailing us here.
Do I need a referral to book an appointment?
No, you do not need a referral to visit Sage House. We do not require Mental Health Care Plans or provide Medicare rebates. As such, we have tried to keep our fees as low as possible to ensure equitable access for all our clients.
What can I expect during my first appointment?
During your first session, you will meet your therapist and have a chance to discuss your concerns, any challenges you're facing and your goals for therapy. The session will typically involve some information-gathering to understand your current situation and begin developing a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Your therapist will focus on helping you to feel comfortable and answer any questions you may have.
What are the fees involved?
Our fees vary depending on the type of service and the therapist you see. Individual appointments are $180+gst per 60 minute session. Couples and family appointments are $240+gst per 60 minute session. Relevant Workcover, NDIS and Victims Assist QLD fees apply. For further information regarding pricing, please contact us here for details.
Do you take Workcover, NDIS & Victims Assist QLD referrals?
If you’re eligible for WorkCover, NDIS or Victims Assist QLD, you may be able to use your funding for therapy. If you’re unsure about your options, we’re happy to discuss them with you.
Can I use my private health fund?
Yes, many private health funds offer extras cover that includes rebates for appointments with various mental health professionals, including psychotherapists, counsellors, and social workers. Please ensure your health fund offers mental health care cover and that you have eligible extras cover in order to claim.
What is the cancellation policy?
We kindly ask for a minimum 24 hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment. This allows us to offer the appointment time to another client in need. Cancellations made within 24 hours of the appointment will incur the full appointment cancellation fee. Please contact us as soon as possible if you need to cancel or reschedule and visit our Cancellation Policy for further information.
Make a booking enquiry
Taking the first step toward therapy can feel daunting, but we’re here to make it easy. If you are ready to book an appointment or have any questions, please reach out.
Phone
Prefer to text or call? Get in touch to discuss your needs or book an appointment.
Office
Suite 2, Boat Harbour Drive Business Suites
152 Boat Harbour Drive,
Pialba, QLD 4655
