Our Approach

People come to therapy for various reasons.  It can be about looking for a greater understanding of ourselves, of and from others, and of our situations. 

Bridge and Connect gives clients a space for connection and support. We balance evidence-based approaches with compassion and care, inviting clients to bring openness as we step through this journey together.

Joyce Ma

Clinical psychologist

I have worked with individuals with various life situations, including trauma and complex PTSD, grief, depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation and familial disconnection.  I have enjoyed working across public and private mental health settings, in particular with adults in forensic and community drug and alcohol services. Alongside private practice, I am currently also working with young people and families in public mental health ICYMHS as a senior psychologist.

My style of therapy is grounded in evidence-based approaches, integrating elements of Schema Therapy, DBT and Compassion-Focused Therapy. You’ll also find touches of play and humanness peppered through sessions with me to bring lightness to the heavier parts of life.  I believe the therapeutic relationship is a central part of therapy, and I work with each client collaboratively to tailor treatment to their unique needs and situations.  Coming from a migrant background, I have a particular understanding of the complexities that come with being in between cultures, and take my appreciation for intercultural and cross-boundary connections into my approach with therapy. 

Beyond the therapy space, I am either in the kitchen creating edible/non-palatable experiments or on the road exploring nature with family and friends.