Welcome to Bear Hug Psychology!

I’m Ursula Pearce, a registered psychologist and the founder of this service dedicated to supporting mental health. I’m passionate about supporting young people and adults (16+) feel heard and understood. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, low self-worth, or big life changes, I offer a supportive space to explore your challenges and grow.

I aim to address your concerns with curiosity and empathy. I believe in creating a compassionate and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment.

🌿 Some of my areas of clinical interests include:

• ADHD & ASD

• Anxiety (generalised, social, health-related)

• Panic attacks

• OCD

• Perfectionism & people-pleasing

• Low self-esteem & self-doubt

• Burnout & stress

• Emotional dysregulation

• Adjustment to life transitions (e.g. moving, uni, first job)

• Identity exploration (neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+ affirming)

• Goal-setting & values-based living (ACT-focused)

• Supporting clients considering ADHD or ASD assessments

🌿 Therapeutic Approach

I use a range of evidence-based therapeutic modalities to support clients in navigating life’s challenges. My work is grounded in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which helps you build psychological flexibility and live in alignment with your values, even when things feel hard.

I also draw from:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for building practical skills and challenging unhelpful thinking patterns.

• Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) to support emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness.

• Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) to reduce self-criticism, build self-kindness, and foster resilience.

• Mindfulness-Based Approaches to help you stay present and manage distress.

• Neuroaffirming and Gender-Affirming Care to ensure a safe and supportive therapeutic environment for neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ clients.

🌿 The Therapy Space

My therapy room in Ashgrove is designed to feel calm, cozy, and welcoming—far from a typical clinical setting. Nestled in a lush, green pocket of Ashgrove, the space is filled with natural light streaming through the windows and surrounded by leafy views.

Inside, you’ll find a warm and inviting atmosphere with soft furnishings, leafy indoor plants, and a complimentary tea bar for you to enjoy. It’s a place where you can settle in, take a breath, and feel at ease as we work together.