Hugo Alarcon
Background
Hugo Alarcon is a senior psychologist based in Melbourne, fully registered with the Psychology Board of Australia (AHPRA). He has over 25 years of experience providing psychological services to adults, adolescents, and children across both community and private practice settings.
Hugo’s professional philosophy is grounded in a deep belief in the capacity for human growth and self-development. He views therapy not only as a way to alleviate distress and treat mental illness, but also as a pathway to help people realise their potential and build resilience. This belief inspired his pursuit of Positive Psychology, a field focused on the optimisation of human functioning and the cultivation of wellbeing, meaning, and connection.
He believes that supporting people to grow from their challenges and recognise their strengths can help them become more resilient to future mental health difficulties. By integrating therapeutic care with a focus on growth and fulfilment, Hugo promotes a holistic vision of mental health that goes beyond recovery to include flourishing.
Hugo is currently completing a research study at La Trobe University focused on enhancing wellbeing and social connectedness among university students, with the goal of reducing loneliness and its associated mental health difficulties. His ongoing work reflects a balance between clinical experience, psychological science, and the belief that every person has the potential to live a more meaningful and connected life.
Professional Experience
Hugo has worked as a School Psychologist with the Department of Education and as a Psychologist and Counsellor at Yarra Valley Psychology and at the Medical and Dental Centres in Epping and Preston.
For the past 18 years, Hugo has been practising as a Senior Psychologist and Counsellor at the Self Growth Institute (SGI) in Preston, where he continues to support clients across a wide range of emotional, behavioural, and relational concerns.
Services
Hugo provides therapy for adults, adolescents, and children. His areas of focus include:
Anxiety and depression
Trauma and stress management
Adjustment issues and life transitions
Low self-esteem and personal growth
He also supports clients in developing wellbeing, resilience, and self-understanding, integrating practical strategies to promote long-term psychological growth.
Languages
Hugo offers therapy in English, Spanish, and Italian, providing culturally sensitive support for individuals and families from diverse backgrounds.
Therapeutic Approach
Hugo draws on a range of evidence-based therapies, tailored to each client’s needs, including:
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT)
His approach is client-centred, compassionate, and strengths-based, helping individuals reduce distress, build coping resources, and enhance overall wellbeing and life satisfaction.
Areas of Specialty
Adjustment disorder
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Grief and loss
Workplace stress and injury-related issues (WorkCover/TAC)
Victims of crime support
Children’s behavioural and emotional difficulties
Autism spectrum conditions (including Asperger’s)
Credentials
Master of Psychology – Monash University, Melbourne
Master of Applied Positive Psychology – University of Melbourne