Empowering Minds, Transforming Lives

About me

Dr Ranjani Utpala Doctor of Psychology (Clinical)
As a warm and compassionate clinical psychologist, I am dedicated to supporting you on your journey toward well-being. I understand that reaching out for help can be daunting, but seeking support is a courageous act of self-care and an important step toward recovery and mental well-being. I adopt a person-centred approach, emphasising building a strong therapeutic relationship grounded in trust and connection.
I have 20+ years of experience in the mental health field, with a special interest in the treatment of eating disorders. I have over 15 years of experience providing treatment for individuals with eating disorders in inpatient, outpatient, residential, and private practice settings. I firmly believe that recovery from an eating disorder is possible, and I am dedicated to supporting you on your unique recovery journey. Other areas of interest and experience include: - Supporting individuals from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities. With a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by people from diverse backgrounds, I am committed to providing culturally sensitive and inclusive care. - Anxiety and Stress Management - Anger Management - Parenting Support - Relationship difficulties - Major life transitions In my sessions, I aim to bring hope, patience, and warmth, and I invite you to bring a sense of curiosity and openness. Your journey towards well-being is valued and I'm here to guide you as you embark on this transformative journey.

Services

Evidence based treatment
I am trained in a range of treatment approaches and will work with you to identify the best method based on your individual needs.
  • Family-based treatment for eating disorders (FBT/Maudsley approach)
  • Adolescent Focussed Therapy for eating disorders (AFT-ED)
  • Enhanced Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for eating disorders (CBT-e)
  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID, CBT-AR)
  • Dialectical Behaviour Therapy for Eating Disorders (DBT-ED)
  • Specialist Supportive Clinical Management for eating disorders (SSCM)
  • Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
  • Cool Kids Program for Anxiety
Supervision and Training
Having worked in psychology postgraduate training programs for over 7 years, I have trained and supervised 100+ psychologists. I have extensive experience in teaching and providing individual and group supervision to:
  • provisionally registered psychologists
  • psychology registrars
  • all other mental health professionals (counsellors, social workers, etc)
  • clinicians working with clients with eating disorders
  • teams working in the eating disorders services
  • overseas psychologists on transitional program

Getting Started

Starting therapy can feel challenging, and it's normal to feel uncertain or overwhelmed at first. With time and support, therapy can become a safe space where you can work through your challenges and build a path forward. The first and hardest step can at times be reaching out and making an appointment.
1. Send an enquiry
  • Complete the online form to request an appointment.
  • We will send you an online intake form to help us better understand the nature of your concerns.
  • We will contact you to make an initial appointment (if appropriate).
2. Before your apppointment
  • Visit your GP to discuss your concerns. In most instances, I collaborate with GPs to ensure the best support for you or your child.
  • Ask your GP to provide a referral and prepare a Mental Health Treatment Plan or an Eating Disorders Care Plan. This will allow you to access Medicare rebates.
  • If you or your child has an eating disorder, your GP may request medical tests like blood work or an ECG. Please send these results to us before your appointment.
  • Please email or fax any relevant assessment reports, blood test results, or previous psychologist reports to us.
3. The assessment phase
  • This phase is an information-gathering one and will need 1-2 sessions. Your first appointment will be 90 mins long.
  • During this appointment, we’ll review important principles such as confidentiality and consent, and I’ll ask several questions to understand what brought you to therapy.
  • This is also your opportunity to ask questions about my experience and ensure that you feel comfortable continuing our sessions.
  • Toward the end of this phase we will set your goals for therapy, discuss treatment options, and develop a treatment plan.

Contact Us

Phone: 0485 880 745 Fax: (02) 7238 1034 Email: ranjani@bluelotuspsych.com.au
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