DBT-Therapists.com

The therapy listings are provided by BetterHelp and we may earn a commission if you use our link - At no cost to you.

Doreen Patenall, PACFA

Seasoned PACFA therapist for anxiety and grief
  • 25 years experience
  • Anxiety and trauma
  • Relationship support

About Doreen Patenall

Doreen Patenall is a therapist credentialed in Australia with 25 years of professional experience. She holds PACFA accreditation - the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia - which signals her standing with a national professional association for counsellors and psychotherapists.

Doreen has extensive experience supporting people who are coping with stress and anxiety, navigating relationship difficulties, recovering from trauma and abuse, and processing grief and loss. Her work emphasizes practical strategies and compassionate listening to help clients regain stability and clearer direction.

She cultivates an open, non-judgmental space where thoughts and feelings can be explored honestly. Doreen recognizes that reaching out for support is a courageous step and she aims to accompany clients through the process of building a more fulfilling and happier life.

Areas of Expertise

Primary Focus

Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefCoaching

Additional Focus Areas

Body imageCommunication problemsControl issuesDivorce and separationForgivenessGuilt and shameHospice and end-of-life counselingIsolation / lonelinessLife purposePanic disorder and panic attacksPost-traumatic stressSelf-loveSocial anxiety and phobia

Therapeutic Approach

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Attachment-Based Therapy Client-Centered Therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Existential Therapy Jungian Therapy Mindfulness Therapy Motivational Interviewing Narrative Therapy Psychodynamic Therapy Solution-Focused Therapy Somatic Therapy Trauma-Focused Therapy Systemic Therapy

Frequently Asked Questions

How much experience does Doreen Patenall have?

Doreen Patenall has 25 years of professional experience.

Is Doreen Patenall a licensed therapist?

Yes. She holds PACFA credentials. PACFA is the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia, a national professional body for counsellors and psychotherapists.

In which languages does Doreen Patenall provide therapy?

Doreen provides therapy in English.

Where is Doreen Patenall located?

Doreen is located in Australia.

How can I work with Doreen Patenall as my therapist?

You can work with Doreen Patenall through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.

Does Doreen Patenall work with international clients?

Doreen Patenall does not currently work with international clients.

How much does therapy with Doreen Patenall cost?

The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as your location and the therapist's availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.

How can I get started with therapy?

Getting started is quick and straightforward. Click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.

Therapeutic approaches and online support



Doreen draws on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Attachment-Based Therapy to guide her work. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) focuses on helping people accept difficult thoughts and feelings while committing to actions that align with their values - it can be helpful for anxiety, stress, and improving life direction. Attachment-Based Therapy explores how early relationship patterns shape current connections and helps people build healthier bonds and emotional regulation after trauma or relationship strain.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic journey and Doreen approaches that choice collaboratively. She works with clients to identify their needs, goals, and preferences and adapts methods over time so the treatment fits the person rather than forcing a single model.

Online therapy through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging makes it easier to access care with licensed professionals from home or work. These flexible formats support consistent scheduling, quicker check-ins between sessions, and options that suit different comfort levels and communication styles, helping therapy fit into everyday life.

Ready to start therapy with Doreen Patenall?

Take the first step toward a better you.