Meet the Team

Dr Tessa Cookson is a highly experienced psychiatrist with a strong clinical focus on mental health, eating disorders, and related psychological trauma. She brings deep expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of anxiety, mood disorders, psychosis, and eating disorders, delivered with a warm, empathetic approach.

Dr Tessa is passionate about supporting recovery through personalised, evidence-based care – integrating lifestyle interventions, therapy, and a compassionate partnership with each person to support lasting recovery. Her significant psychiatry experience comes with a strong clinical focus on mental health, eating disorders, and related psychological trauma.

With over 25 years of experience in both the private and public sectors, Ilke brings her expertise in business operations, shaped by her work in management consulting, investment banking, and wealth management. A career that has taken her from leading firms in London to dynamic environments in Sydney, providing her with international insight and a refined approach to leading complex operations.

Ilke’s deep understanding of business systems and administrative frameworks allows her to implement and refine processes that enhance productivity, compliance, and organisational wellbeing. Her ability to blend strategic insight with practical execution ensures that Byron Private runs smoothly and continues to deliver exceptional care to every individual we support.

Anne is an experienced psychotherapist with a demonstrated history of working in mental health care. Skilled in Addiction, Trauma, Mindfulness and Family Therapy, Anne brings over 20 years of experience to her work with clients at Byron Private.

Drawing on a number of classic therapeutic approaches, Anne incorporate simple yet powerful processes that enable individuals to access their creativity and work through their issues. Anne draws on her years of experience working in in addiction as both primary psychotherapist and family therapist.

Lisa is a qualified Gestalt Therapist, Equine Assisted Psychotherapist, and Art Therapist with specialised trauma training. Lisa has worked as a counsellor and group facilitator for INTRA, an Outreach program for the Buttery Drug and Alcohol facility. With years of experience as an Equine Psychotherapist Lisa has witnessed the profound impact this work can have on clients struggling with Addiction, Attachment Issues, Trauma and Mental health.

The relationship between the horses, the therapist and the client facilitates a deeper understanding of the self and other, out dated patterns, inner strengths and resources and provides an opportunity to experiment with new ways of being. Equine therapy supports experiences where clients begin to feel safer, more enlivened and at home in both themselves and life. From this place choice, change and growth are possible. Lisa brings her unique approach that incorporates the healing benefits of nature, art and horses for a rich and creative therapeutic experience. Byron Private’s equine therapy program is offered as an additional therapy as part of our integrated approach.

Dr Clinton Scott is a GP with over ten years of experience in general practice and hospital-based medicine. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (with Honours) and a Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS). His work has included a strong focus on addiction and mental health, and at Byron Private he brings a calm, compassionate approach that recognises the complexity of recovery and the importance of treating the whole person.

With a background in corporate logistics, sales support, and account management, Frederique brings exceptional organisational skills and clear, compassionate communication to her role at Byron Private. She plays a central role in planning and coordinating each client’s program, adapting seamlessly to changing needs and ensuring every individual receives the care and support essential to their recovery journey. Outside of work, Frederique enjoys dining out with friends, travelling, reading, and unwinding with a good movie.

I’ve been working in the health and wellness industry for over 10 years, combining personal training, yoga, and breathwork to support people’s physical and mental wellbeing.

I currently work across both private coaching and mental health rehabilitation settings, helping clients build strength, resilience, and confidence through movement and mindfulness. My approach focuses on creating balance – blending functional strength training with restorative practices. Outside of work, I enjoy relaxing, being outdoors, and continuing to learn about movement and human performance.

Dr Therese is a highly experienced psychiatrist with over 27 years in both public and private mental health settings. Her career has spanned diverse environments, from Aboriginal health centres to rural communities, where she has provided compassionate, culturally aware care.

A committed educator, Therese has also played an active role in training the next generation of psychiatrists. Beyond her professional life, she finds peace in nature – walking coastal headlands with her husband and their dog, watching sea life, and enjoying a picnic.