About

Supporting you through life’s challenges with care, compassion, and real understanding

At Clear Minded Psychology, our focus is simple: providing mental health support that feels safe, genuine, and centred around the individual. If you’re facing a life transition, concerned about a child, or simply feeling overwhelmed by everything on your plate, we’re here to guide you forward.

Based in Bella Vista, Sydney, we work with teens, and adults across a wide range of life challenges. Our approach is practical, evidence-based, and always focused on what matters most to you.

You’re welcome to start with a free 15-minute consultation to see if therapy feels like the right fit.

Meet Barine Zahid, the psychologist behind Clear Minded Psychology

Hi, I’m Barine, and I’m glad you’re here.

I’m a general psychologist, and since 2021, I’ve had the privilege of supporting hundreds of people through some of life’s toughest moments. From children and teenagers navigating identity challenges to adults facing burnout, grief or major life changes, I’ve worked alongside people from many different walks of life. I understand how challenging these experiences can be, and how much strength it takes to reach out for help.

My background and training

I completed my Bachelor of Psychology (4th year specialist) at Western Sydney University in 2018, and later undertook my provisional registration between 2021 and 2023.

I’ve also completed extensive training in evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and trauma-informed practice such as Eye-Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR). With more than 5,000 hours of direct client experience, I’ve worked with people across NDIS, Medicare, Workers Compensation, and private settings, supporting a wide range of challenges and life circumstances.

I am also a Member of the Australian Association of Psychologists Inc (MAAPi), a SIRA-approved practitioner, and registered with Medicare as a provider of psychology items.

But my approach to therapy isn’t shaped only by formal training. It’s also deeply influenced by my own lived experience.

I believe it is important to make the step to choosing someone that is right for you. My aim as a practitioner is to ensure that when you are in my care, it is what feels right for you and we continue to progress together.

Why I do this work

As the firstborn Australian child of migrant parents, I grew up navigating two worlds, honouring my family’s heritage while shaping my own identity in a different culture. That experience gave me a deep understanding of the pressures that can come with cultural expectations, identity, and the feeling of being caught between different worlds.

It’s something that continues to shape how I approach therapy. I believe support should make space for the whole person, including their background, values, family dynamics, and lived experiences. That’s why I’m particularly passionate about working with individuals and families from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) backgrounds.

I’m fluent in both English and Farsi (Dari dialect), which allows me to offer therapy in your preferred language and better understand the cultural context that shapes your experiences.

What drives me

After thousands of hours of sessions, what still motivates me every day is witnessing people rediscover their sense of hope. Watching a child who’s been anxious for months finally feel calm enough to enjoy school again. Seeing a teenager who felt utterly alone start to believe they matter. Supporting an adult through grief until they can hold both the sadness and good memories at once.

Experiences like this continue to remind me why this work is so important and why quality mental health support should be accessible to everyone.

When I’m not working, you’ll usually find me spending time with family and friends, getting outdoors, watching movies, or reading.

Our commitment to you

When you choose Clear Minded Psychology, here’s what you can expect:

Evidence-based care that’s tailored to you

We use proven therapeutic approaches, including CBT, ACT, EMDR, solution-focused therapy, and more, but we never apply them rigidly. Every technique is tailored to your needs, goals, and life.

Flexible scheduling and after-hours appointments

We know life is busy and unpredictable. That’s why we offer after-hours appointments e.g., 5pm, Saturday sessions, and telehealth options. Whether you’re juggling work, school runs, or caring responsibilities, we’ll work around your schedule, not the other way around.

A safe, inclusive space

Our practice is a safe space for people of all cultures, backgrounds, sexual orientations, gender identities, and abilities. We understand that your identity influences your experiences, and we’re committed to providing care that honours who you are.

Confidentiality you can trust

What you share in therapy stays in therapy. We take your privacy seriously and follow strict professional guidelines to protect your confidentiality (with the only exception being situations where there’s a risk of harm, as required by law).

Affordable, transparent support

Mental health care shouldn’t be out of reach. We offer clear pricing, accept various funding schemes including Medicare, and private health rebates, and we’re always upfront about costs, so there are no surprises.

Dedicated to ongoing professional development

The field of psychology is always evolving, and so am I. I’m committed to ongoing training, supervision, and professional development to ensure you’re getting the most current, effective care possible.

Beyond the session

Our support doesn’t end when the session does. Between appointments, you’ll have the tools, strategies, and skills you need. We might suggest practical exercises, reflection prompts, or resources tailored to your needs, but only if they feel helpful to you. Therapy is a partnership, and you’re always in control of your own journey.

Ready to take the next step?

Whether you’re seeking support for yourself, your child, or someone you care about, reaching out is the hardest part — and you’ve already started. We’re here to make the rest as easy as possible.

Let’s talk about what you need, answer your questions, and help you decide if Clear Minded Psychology is right for you.