meet natalie stokes – online psychologist for parents
Hi there!
I’m Natalie – an online psychologist, mum of two, a wife, nature lover, and creative at heart.
I have a Master’s degree in Educational and Developmental Psychology and experience in hospital and school settings. Becoming a parent myself – and navigating that transition – was what inspired me to start a private practice dedicated to supporting other parents.
Parenthood can pave the way for much growth. But it’s certainly not an easy journey, and wasn’t meant to be done in isolation. I feel privileged to help parents navigate the highs and lows of raising children in today’s world.
A supportive space to reflect + grow
I help empower parents to create a more connected and fulfilling family life.
Parenting can be one of the most meaningful experiences, but it can also feel confusing, stressful, and lonely. Many parents come to me because they want to parent with more patience, clarity, and trust in themselves. Yet they feel stuck in patterns they didn’t intend or unsure about how to manage everyone’s needs.
I provide a warm and safe space where parents can speak openly and feel seen. At the same time, I bring structure and direction to sessions. Together we explore what is happening in your family, identify what matters most to you as a parent, and develop realistic strategies that align with your values. My hope is that through our work you begin to feel more confident, supported, and grounded in your parenting—so you can respond to your child with greater clarity, connection, and trust.
Parents work with me for a range of reasons. They may be finding their own struggles are making it hard to parent like they want to. Or, they may want guidance on supporting their child. The common theme is that they want help in making family life feel more calm and connected.
You may be feeling…
- Stressed, anxious or overwhelmed in parenting
- Distracted or like you’re just going through the motions
- Stuck in patterns + cycles that don’t align with your values
- Frustrated, angry or reactive – and left with guilt or shame afterwards
- Overwhelmed by your child’s emotions or behaviour
- Unsure about what your child needs from you
- Like you and your partner/coparent aren’t on the same page
Your child may be…
- Going through a stage that feels hard to manage
- Struggling with life changes (e.g. the arrival of a baby, starting school or childcare)
- Using aggression or difficult behaviours when they’re upset
- Overwhelmed or highly sensitive to the world
- Having a hard time adjusting to change or family dynamics
You don’t have to do this alone.
Support from a parent-focused psychologist can help you move forward.
I help parents, like you, learn skills for:
- Self-care and self-compassion
- Calming your nervous system
- Allowing space for your feelings
- Shifting the patterns + cycles you feel stuck in
- Understanding your child’s inner world
- Seeing the needs behind your child’s behaviour
- Responding to your child from a place of connection and trust
- Turning your parenting goals into realistic, daily practices
- Parenting in alignment with your values
- Finding more common ground in parenting with your partner or co-parent
Approach
I tailor my work to the unique person I’m supporting. The parenting practices we explore focus on long-term wellbeing of both parents and children, and supporting the connection between you. Some of the approaches I draw from include attachment theory, acceptance and commitment therapy, mindfulness, developmental psychology, cognitive-behavioural therapy, psycho-education, positive psychology, and solution-focused therapy.
Please Note: I’m a part-time online psychologist and do not have the capacity to provide legal documentation, letters or references nor services via third parties (e.g. Employee Assistance Program).
What to expect when working with me
warmth + compassion
I’ll invite you to be reflective and honest, and support you with compassion. I’ll also gently encourage you to look at different perspectives to help create meaningful change. We’ll pace sessions according to where you’re at.
structure + direction
I’ll help provide structure and direction to our sessions so we can collaborate in a way that feels clear. Where relevant, I’ll offer resources (emailed after sessions), so you can continue your growth outside of our work together.
evidence-based practice
I integrate scientific research, and my ongoing professional development and experience. But I’m also mindful you’re a unique person and not every approach will feel helpful. I welcome questions, and I’m always honest about if I need time to reflect and come back to you.
ONLINE convenience
You can easily book sessions online and attend from wherever you’re comfortable. You’ll be emailed an appointment link before your session so you can just click and go. Payment for sessions automatically happens 15 minutes into your appointment, and you receive a paid invoice afterwards for your records.
millie, mY ragdoll cat…
My cat likes to keep me company. Usually, she shows off her nap-heavy lifestyle. Sometimes, she roams or makes purring sounds. If you’d prefer she’s not present, let me know.
qualifications, training + Memberships
Masters degree in Educational and Developmental Psychology – The University of Melbourne
Bachelor of Social Sciences (Psychology) (Honours) – Charles Sturt University
Bachelor of Arts (Psychology and French) – The University of Sydney
Registered Psychologist (PSY0001887739) – Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Authority (AHPRA), since 2014
Member – Australian Association of Psychologists Inc. (AAPi), since 2021
Registered Facilitator – Circle of Security® Parenting™ Program (COSP), 2023
Evidence-Based Parenting; Raising Children to Thrive (by Dr Justin Coulson) – Mental Health Academy, 2025
I’m continually learning and developing my skillset so have just included the most comprehensive trainings. If you have questions – let me know!