If you are feeling constantly overwhelmed, running on high alert, or struggling to balance work, family, and life, you do not have to carry that weight alone. High-functioning anxiety often goes unnoticed by others because you keep everything moving on the outside, even while feeling exhausted, overextended, or anxious on the inside. At the 3Chairs Therapy Practice in Woy Woy, we provide a warm, female-led space where you can pause, catch your breath, and find evidence-based support tailored to your life.

Our experienced team understands the unique pressures facing women today across the Central Coast. Whether you are dealing with chronic stress, panic symptoms, daily overwhelm, or burnout, we work closely with you to identify triggers and develop practical management techniques. Located right in Woy Woy, our clinic supports clients from Erina, Gosford, the Peninsula, and the surrounding Brisbane Water region with flexible scheduling, including weekend sessions.

Clare Fernando

Meet your therapist

Clare Fernando, BPsych (Hons), BEc (Hons)

I am the sum of my parts – wife, mother, relative, friend, business owner, entrepreneur, mathematician, inventor, published author, staged playwright, public speaker, and mentor. I am ambitious, driven and a high achiever – all working to try and make the world a better place than when I was born into it. All these roles have shaped the highs and lows of my life, rich in personal and professional achievements, past trauma, present challenges, and future aspirations.

Clare holds a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) from Edith Cowan University, with her Honours thesis receiving a First Class result, and a Bachelor of Economics (Honours) from the University of Sydney. She is currently undertaking a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at Edith Cowan University.

Clare also brings more than 25 years of experience in research and econometric modelling, alongside senior leadership roles including CEO, Vice-President and Managing Director within the Australian operations of global organisations. This experience has given her a strong analytical and evidence-based perspective, as well as first-hand insight into the rewards and pressures associated with leadership, ambition and career progression, particularly for women.

Clare combines psychological training, research expertise, evidence-informed therapeutic approaches and extensive real-world experience to provide therapy that is practical, compassionate and tailored to each individual.

What clients say

Clare brings together deep professional knowledge with warmth, authenticity, and genuine care. I’m incredibly grateful for the role she has played so far and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend her to anyone looking for a therapist who can hold both the pain of the past and the uncertainty of the present and the pathway for possibility of what comes next.

Rebecca T, early-50s

Having Clare as my therapist from 3Chairs Therapy is actually alright. She isn’t just some professional nodding along; she really listens and gets into the ‘why’ of things, like how past dramas or family stuff mess with your head now. Whether you’re trying to set boundaries with people who drain you or just need a way to calm your brain when it won’t shut up, she’s got your back. It feels more like a strategic partnership than a clinical session, and Clare has taught me practical techniques to reduce anxiety, challenge negative thinking, stop absorbing other people’s unhealthy influences, and approach life with a clearer and more balanced mindset

Male, 47yo

As a single mum, life can feel overwhelming and lonely at times, but Her Space at 3Chairs Therapy has given me something I didn’t realise I was missing — a space where I can simply exhale and be myself. Clare Fernando creates such a warm, safe and supportive environment where women genuinely uplift one another. I’ve walked away from each session feeling stronger, clearer in my mind, and more capable of taking control of my life again. I would highly recommend Her Space to any woman wanting to reconnect with herself and move forward with a renewed sense of purpose and hope.

Female, 35-44yo

Seeing Clare at 3Chairs Therapy has been incredibly beneficial. Therapy helped me grow in confidence, better understand myself, and feel more open and grounded in my life. I’m really grateful for the safe, compassionate space Clare provides.

Female, 37yo

Working with Clare at 3Chairs has really made things click for me. She explains things in a way that makes sense and gives practical tools I actually use. I feel more confident, clearer, and finally starting to put myself first.

Female, 50yo

Frequently asked questions

1. How do I know which type of therapy is right for me?

You don’t need to know before you start. We’ll take the time to understand what you’re experiencing, what you’d like support with, and what you hope to achieve. From there, we’ll recommend an approach tailored to your individual needs and goals.


2. Is what I share in session confidential?

Yes. What you share in therapy is treated with privacy and confidentiality. There are limited circumstances where we may be legally or ethically required to disclose information, such as when there is a serious risk of harm to you or someone else. Wherever possible and appropriate, we will discuss this with you before any information is shared. We’ll explain confidentiality and its limits clearly when you begin therapy.


3. Can I do sessions online, or do I have to come in person?

You can choose what works best for you. We offer face-to-face sessions at our Woy Woy practice, as well as online and telephone sessions for clients who prefer the convenience of receiving support from home.


4. What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule?

We understand that plans sometimes change. If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, simply contact us as early as possible before your scheduled session. We do not charge a cancellation fee when reasonable notice is provided. If you do not attend a scheduled session without notice or an adequate reason, we may require payment in advance for your next five sessions should you choose to continue therapy with 3Chairs Therapy. Our cancellation policy will be explained when you book your appointment.


5. What can I expect from my first session?

Your first session is an opportunity for us to get to know you and understand what has brought you to therapy. We’ll talk about what you’re experiencing, what’s important to you, and what you’d like to change or work towards. Where appropriate, we’ll also introduce practical techniques to help make immediate feelings of distress more manageable, while giving us time to understand and address the underlying factors contributing to how you’re feeling. Together, we’ll begin developing a practical and personalised approach to help you move forward.


6. What makes 3Chairs Therapy different?

We believe meaningful support shouldn’t always have to wait until your next appointment. Regular 3Chairs Therapy clients can contact their therapist, Clare Fernando, between scheduled sessions when experiencing acute distress and, where Clare is available, access a complimentary 15-minute telephone consult. During these brief telephone consults, Clare can help you use practical strategies to manage the immediate physical and emotional symptoms of distress and identify what may have triggered them. This additional support is part of our commitment to providing therapy that feels personal, practical and genuinely supportive — both during your sessions and when you may need a little extra help between them.