Farah Yusuf

Psychologist

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been curious about how we, as humans, think, feel, and behave—and how our life experiences shape the way we relate to ourselves and the world around us. Over the past 15+ years as a psychologist, I’ve had the privilege of working with a diverse range of clients across the lifespan, each with their own story, strengths, and goals.

I offer a person-centred and compassionate approach, grounded in emotional safety, understanding, and hope. I believe that meaningful change happens when we feel heard, seen, and supported—and that therapy should be a collaborative space where curiosity, connection, and growth are possible.

My career has included roles in Queensland Corrective Services, Queensland Health, and Disability Services, as well as private practice. I’ve worked with:

  • Adults in high-security custodial settings

  • Individuals with complex mental health and forensic needs

  • Children and young people in out-of-home care

  • People with disabilities

  • Foster carers and residential care teams

From 2007 to 2013, I worked in custodial settings with adults experiencing a broad range of mental health difficulties and complex risk-related behaviours. I was also part of specialist sexual offending treatment programs for individuals on the Dangerous Prisoners (Sexual Offenders) Act (DPSOA), developing a deep understanding of offence-specific risk and rehabilitation pathways.

Since 2013, I’ve focused on supporting children and adolescents in the child protection system, many of whom have experienced significant trauma and behavioural challenges. I use a trauma-informed, functional assessment and positive behaviour support approach in my work with young people, carers, and systems of care.

Currently, I work in private practice where I enjoy supporting clients with mental health, NDIS, and forensic presentations. I am especially passionate about working with young people and adults to enhance self-awareness, emotional regulation, and meaningful life engagement.

My key strengths include:

  • A thoughtful, compassionate, and culturally sensitive therapeutic style

  • The ability to work collaboratively and transparently with care teams and stakeholders

  • A genuine interest in understanding people’s lived experiences

  • A commitment to ongoing learning and professional growth

Those who know me well describe me as warm, resilient, generous, and cheerful. Outside of work, I love spending time with my family and staying active through boxing, swimming, dancing, and tennis. I’m also a lifelong learner who finds joy in discovering new ideas and perspectives.

⦿ Bachelor of Psychological Science

Hello, I’m Farah,


Interventions

I work in a person-centred and flexible way, adapting my approach to suit each individual’s unique needs, goals, and preferences. My practice is trauma-informed and collaborative, with a strong focus on creating emotional safety and fostering self-awareness and growth.

I draw from a range of evidence-based modalities including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Trauma-Informed Positive Behaviour Support, Mindfulness and Self-Regulation strategies, Positive Psychology, and Therapeutic Parenting approaches. I aim to work holistically and systemically, especially when supporting children and adolescents in care.

Areas of interest include:

  • Trauma and Complex Trauma

  • Forensic and Offender Rehabilitation

  • Children and Young People in Out-of-Home Care

  • Behavioural and Emotional Regulation

  • Disabilities and Developmental Differences

  • Parent-Child Relationship and Therapeutic Parenting

  • Mental Health Challenges

  • Cultural Responsiveness and Systemic Work