Kaori Nakamura Psychology

ABOUT

“The wound is the place where the Light enters you.” - Rumi

Hi, I'm Kaori!

Born and raised in Japan, I’ve lived in several cities both in Japan and Australia, always curious about where life might take me. Eventually, I found my way back to Brisbane, the place now I call home.

I work with adults experiencing a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, intergenerational and family-of-origin issues, and neurodevelopmental conditions such as ADHD and ASD. I have a particular interest in the connection between psychological and physical health, including neuroplastic conditions such as chronic pain and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis.

I believe that true healing involves the mind, body, and soul, and I aim to move beyond treating symptoms in isolation to support your deeper growth and self-actualisation. Alongside evidence-based therapeutic approaches, I may also draw on the wisdom of Eastern philosophies and holistic perspectives that may support wellbeing and personal growth.

One tradition I particularly appreciate is Taoism, where water symbolises an ideal way of living: effortless, adaptable, and yielding. Rather than forcing its way through obstacles, water flows around them, and in doing so, its soft, persistent movement wears down even the hardest stone. True strength, it turns out, lies in flexibility rather than force.

Perhaps obstacles are not in your way, but on your way, quietly guiding you towards the best version of yourself. The rejection, the crisis, the unexpected detour...what if these weren't failures, but redirections? When everyone else is rushing, can you trust the detour, and trust that it's taking you somewhere worth going?

SERVICES

In my practice, I draw on evidence-based therapies including Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Trauma-focused ACT and CBT, Dialectical Behaviour-informed Therapy, and aspects of Schema Therapy. Rather than following any one model rigidly, my approach is eclectic, trauma-informed, and neuro-affirming.

— Standard session
$280 per 50-minute session.With a GP Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP), you'll receive a Medicare rebate of $149.05 (up to 10 sessions per calendar year) — bringing your out-of-pocket cost to $130.75.This is not a bulk-billing practice. However, the APS recommended fee for 2026-2027 is $330, and my fees sit below this.
— Reports & admin
Charged separately.Fees for report writing, letters, and forms depend on complexity and time required. As a guide, ~60 minutes of work is charged at one standard session fee. Longer or more complex pieces may incur additional fees.
— Private health
Rebates may apply.Depending on your level of cover, you may be eligible for a rebate. Please check directly with your provider for details.
— Cancellations
48 hours' notice required.Cancellations with less than 48 hours' notice — or missed appointments — incur a fee of 100% of the scheduled session. Cancellation fees are not eligible for Medicare rebates and must be paid prior to your next appointment.
CONTACT & LOCATION
Star Medical Centre
Acacia Ridge
Shop 14, 28 Elizabeth Street
Acacia Ridge QLD 4110
NOTE

This is not an acute mental health or emergency service. If you're experiencing a crisis, please contact your local crisis support service or call 000. Altermatively, please call Lifeline 13 11 14.