David Manks is a registered psychologist in private practice, offering in-person and telehealth appointments
Types of therapy and how David works
Therapy is not a one-size-fits-all process. Each person and relationship brings a unique history, experiences and ways of coping. I draw on established therapeutic approaches to understand what is happening beneath the surface while supporting practical change in daily life.
“Careful assessment and decades of experience guide how I work. I don’t apply a single model. I listen closely, assess what’s going on for you, and choose the approach that best fits you as an individual or couple.”
— David Manks, Psychologist, Geelong, VIC
How therapy works
Therapy provides a private, neutral setting where you can speak openly, explore patterns contributing to distress, and develop practical ways to manage challenges. The process is collaborative and moves at a pace that supports insight, stability and meaningful change.
Cognitive behavioural therapy, often referred to as CBT, is one of the most widely recognised evidence-based approaches in modern psychology. It focuses on the connection between thought patterns and behaviour.
CBT can help with anxiety, depression, trauma responses and sleep difficulties, including insomnia. I use CBT-informed therapy to identify unhelpful thinking patterns, such as catastrophic thinking or harsh self-criticism, and support the development of healthier responses and coping strategies.
As these patterns shift, many people experience reduced anxiety, improved mood and greater emotional control.
Interpersonal psychotherapy
Interpersonal psychotherapy focuses on the link between life experiences and mental health. Difficulties in relationships, unresolved conflict, grief and major life transitions can significantly affect emotional wellbeing.
This approach helps you understand relationship patterns, improve communication, and navigate changes such as separation, loss or role transitions. Strengthening relationships often leads to improved mood, confidence and daily functioning.
Self Psychology
Self Psychology, a contemporary psychodynamic approach, focuses on understanding your subjective experience and emotional world. Early relationships and life experiences shape self-esteem, identity and patterns of relating to others.
This work emphasises empathic understanding, emotional attunement and validation. As you feel understood and accepted, a more stable sense of self and healthier relationships can develop. This approach can be particularly helpful for longstanding patterns, chronic anxiety or depression, and difficulties with self-worth.
Humanistic and relational therapy
Humanistic and relational approaches emphasise empathy, respect and being understood. I focus on the whole person rather than symptoms alone, recognising strengths alongside struggles. aAttention is given to personal meaning, values, and capacity for growth, thereby supporting self-acceptance, resilience, and a stronger sense of self.
Psychoeducation and practical strategies
Understanding how anxiety, trauma responses, sleep disturbance and emotional stress affect the body and mind can reduce fear and confusion. I provide clear explanations and practical strategies to support daily functioning.
This may include emotional regulation techniques, sleep routines, stress management and coping strategies that support stability.
Marriage and relationship counselling
I draw on the above approaches in marriage and relationship therapy, along with Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), the Gottman Method and other models. I integrate these approaches to understand and support the needs of each couple and partner, working with both opposite-gender and same-gender couples.
David’s integrative approach
Many therapies rely on a single framework. I work integratively, drawing on different approaches to understand underlying causes, current patterns and practical needs. This allows therapy to respond to each person or couple rather than fitting you into a fixed model.
What to expect from therapy
People often begin therapy hoping for quick relief. While early improvements usually occur, meaningful change unfolds over time as understanding deepens and new ways of responding take shape.
In the early stages, you may notice better sleep, feel less overwhelmed, or respond differently to stress. Alongside developing strategies to manage symptoms, I focus on underlying causes to support long-term change.
As the work continues, many people experience reduced emotional distress, improved relationships, greater self-understanding and increased confidence in managing life’s challenges.
Reduced emotional distress
Clearer self-understanding and healthier relationships
I usually begin with 5 or 6 sessions, then review your progress together. This gives you time to experience the process and consider what feels helpful and worthwhile for you.
FAQs about treatment approaches
I guide the approach through careful assessment, clinical knowledge and an understanding of what you are experiencing. Rather than following a single model, I adapt therapy to suit you. Some people ask about methods such as CBT. These may be used when appropriate, but the focus remains on what will be most helpful. My approach is collaborative, and I will discuss this with you as we work together.
Most people experience a reduction in emotional distress as they understand triggers, regulate emotions and respond differently to stress.
Therapy provides insight into patterns, behaviours and relationship dynamics, supporting clearer self-understanding and healthier connections.
Therapy helps you understand how past experiences continue to affect your thoughts, emotions, sleep, relationships, and daily functioning, thereby supporting greater stability.
Yes. By addressing underlying stress, anxiety and trauma responses, therapy can reduce hyperarousal and support healthier sleep patterns.
Yes. Therapy can strengthen communication skills, helping you express needs clearly, listen more effectively and navigate conflict.
As understanding deepens and coping strategies strengthen, many people experience improved emotional stability, clearer thinking and greater capacity to manage daily life.
Yes. Developing insight, emotional regulation and practical coping skills supports resilience and long-term wellbeing.
Therapy can help clarify values, priorities and goals, supporting a renewed sense of direction.
