Ashley Ristanto

Ashley is a Clinical Psychology Registrar who completed her Clinical Psychology Masters at Central Queensland University  Rockhampton, with thesis research exploring bariatric surgery patient’s wellbeing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

She previously completed a Master of Professional Psychology degree at UNE and bachelor’s degree in psychology at JCU, which included a thesis component focused on the benefits of psychological interventions for bariatric patients. She also has an Honours degree in Anthropology, to enable a greater understanding of cultural practices and diversity.

She prefers a person-centred approach, is interested in the story and narrative of each individual and uses evidence-based strategies. She has worked in various positions in public and not-for-profit health settings, working with people of all ages and backgrounds with various presentations including depression, anxiety, stress, gender identity, trauma and adjustment. She has worked in many areas of health such as older persons, paediatrics, rehabilitation, orthopaedics and renal services.

Ashley is experienced in psychometric testing and screening for children and adults. Her special interests include education, cultural psychology and bariatric psychology. She has presented her research on the benefits of psychological counselling for bariatric surgery patients at many national and international conferences and is particularly passionate about this area.

Ashely is trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.

Therapeutic modalities:
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Age groups:
• Children
• Adolescents
• Young adults
• Adults
• Older P\persons