About

At Dualist, we are dedicated in providing a service based on evidence-based approaches that focus on psychological and physiological strategies to support long-term exercise and weight management.

Our approach

Dualist offers a comprehensive service that combines evidenced-based psychological practices with high-level strength, conditioning, and nutritional training in order to provide lasting change. We aim to create an environment where you feel understood and supported in your needs. We specialise in a range of areas specific to developing and maintaining long-term healthy physical, psychological, and emotional wellbeing. We use a number of treatment methods to achieve this such as:

  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
  • Motivational Interviewing (MI)

 

with

 

The latest nutritional and strength and conditioning practices

 

These techniques are designed to help you feel equipped with effective strategies and tools to achieve your tailored needs.

 

David Simich 

(MAppPsych, MExSc, GradDipConsultPsych, BPsych, Cert III & IV in Fitness)

David is the principal psychologist at Dualist. He is a fully registered psychologist and qualified personal trainer. Additionally, David is a member of the Australian and New Zealand Obesity Society and World Obesity, and is internationally recognised for his obesity management expertise through the Strategic Centre for Obesity Professional Education. David’s qualifications consist of a Master in Applied Psychology (Murdoch University) and a Master in Exercise Science (University of Western Australia). David has also co-authored and published peer-reviewed research into motivation and expectations. 

 

David has psychological experience in both the public and private sector and has treated a wide range of psychological issues, including but not limited to: difficulties with emotional regulation, personal improvement, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. David understands the importance of establishing an effective, warm, and trusting relationship with the client, and given that each individual is unique, he recognises that approaches should be tailored to their specific needs.

 

David has also personally trained, participated and competed in a wide range of sports and physical activity, including: water polo, hockey, body boarding, beach volleyball, power and Olympic lifting, CrossFit, body recomposition and military style training. He loves to experiment and constantly try different types of physical activity. Above all else, enjoyment is paramount to his ethos in exercise. David is passionate about helping his clients create a healthy relationship with body image, food and physical activity in order to create a more non-judgemental, meaningful, and fulfilled life.