Compassion Focused Counselling in Toorak, VIC

Photo of Fiona Fouvy, Psychologist in Toorak, VIC
Fiona Fouvy
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toorak, VIC 3142
I am a Psychologist (Clinical Registrar) and Executive Coach with 25+ years of experience in corporate and public sector organisations, and 7 years in private practice. I help adults of all ages experiencing anxiety, stress, trauma, grief and loss, life transitions. I have a special interest in work-related issues, job or career dissatisfaction.
I am a Psychologist (Clinical Registrar) and Executive Coach with 25+ years of experience in corporate and public sector organisations, and 7 years in private practice. I help adults of all ages experiencing anxiety, stress, trauma, grief and loss, life transitions. I have a special interest in work-related issues, job or career dissatisfaction.
(03) 8372 0460 View (03) 8372 0460
Photo of Inner Eastern Psychology, Psychologist in Toorak, VIC
Inner Eastern Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Verified Verified
Toorak, VIC 3142
Managing difficult emotions, such as feeling down or depressed, sadness, anger, guilt, shame, feelings of emptiness or insecurity Managing mood swings and chronic mood disturbances Reducing stress and burnout Treatment of anxiety disorders including Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Health Anxiety, Phobias, and Panic Attacks Reducing harm from impulsive behaviours Adjustment to and management of major life events Coping with grief and bereavement Experience related to living with chronic illness Problems related to traumatic experience or abuse Managing distress related to body image concerns Experiences related to identifying as LGBTIQA Difficulties with identity, self-esteem or self-image
Managing difficult emotions, such as feeling down or depressed, sadness, anger, guilt, shame, feelings of emptiness or insecurity Managing mood swings and chronic mood disturbances Reducing stress and burnout Treatment of anxiety disorders including Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Health Anxiety, Phobias, and Panic Attacks Reducing harm from impulsive behaviours Adjustment to and management of major life events Coping with grief and bereavement Experience related to living with chronic illness Problems related to traumatic experience or abuse Managing distress related to body image concerns Experiences related to identifying as LGBTIQA Difficulties with identity, self-esteem or self-image
(03) 9070 3597 View (03) 9070 3597
Photo of Noah Noam Mankowitz, Psychologist in Toorak, VIC
Noah Noam Mankowitz
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Toorak, VIC 3142
Noah Mankowitz is a Clinical Psychologist who works both at Alfred Health as well as privately. Noah specialises in mental conditions from age 8 and above, with particular interests in Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, OCD, Trauma, Self-Harm, Personality Disorders, Psychosis as well as Life Transition and Body Image. Noah Mankowitz earned his qualifications from Harvard University; Yale University as well as Deakin University in Melbourne, Australia. In addition, Noah Mankowitz has published articles with the American Psychological Association and strives to continue contributing to the Medical and Psychology field.
Noah Mankowitz is a Clinical Psychologist who works both at Alfred Health as well as privately. Noah specialises in mental conditions from age 8 and above, with particular interests in Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, OCD, Trauma, Self-Harm, Personality Disorders, Psychosis as well as Life Transition and Body Image. Noah Mankowitz earned his qualifications from Harvard University; Yale University as well as Deakin University in Melbourne, Australia. In addition, Noah Mankowitz has published articles with the American Psychological Association and strives to continue contributing to the Medical and Psychology field.
(03) 7003 2140 View (03) 7003 2140
Photo of Melissa Jane Freedman, Psychotherapist in Toorak, VIC
Melissa Jane Freedman
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Toorak, VIC 3142
A registered psychotherapist, Melissa has a Master’s Degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy and is registered with the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA), and the Australian Counselling Association (ACA). Melissa uses a range of evidenced based approaches, tailoring the therapy to best suit the individual needs of her clients.
A registered psychotherapist, Melissa has a Master’s Degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy and is registered with the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA), and the Australian Counselling Association (ACA). Melissa uses a range of evidenced based approaches, tailoring the therapy to best suit the individual needs of her clients.
(03) 9070 3508 View (03) 9070 3508
Photo of Kaz Mitchell, Psychotherapist in Toorak, VIC
Kaz Mitchell
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Toorak, VIC 3142  (Online Only)
From time-to-time we all have issues going on in our lives that feel overwhelming, confusing and too hard to deal with on our own. At the same time, for various reasons, it often feels as if there is no one there we feel safe enough with whom we can share our burdens. Whether it's a messy divorce, the death of a loved one, a traumatic experience, an existential crisis about the meaning of life, or a difficult decision that has to be made - it can be hard to figure out what to do or who to turn to for guidance.
From time-to-time we all have issues going on in our lives that feel overwhelming, confusing and too hard to deal with on our own. At the same time, for various reasons, it often feels as if there is no one there we feel safe enough with whom we can share our burdens. Whether it's a messy divorce, the death of a loved one, a traumatic experience, an existential crisis about the meaning of life, or a difficult decision that has to be made - it can be hard to figure out what to do or who to turn to for guidance.
(03) 6146 1629 View (03) 6146 1629
Photo of Karla Lomagno, Psychologist in Toorak, VIC
Karla Lomagno
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Toorak, VIC 3142
I have over a decade of experience in both public and private mental health sectors. I have a compassionate and collaborative approach, and I work closely with clients to help them pinpoint their life-worth living goals, identify barriers to change, and support skills development to enhance behavioural effectiveness and improve overall sense of wellbeing. I have worked with individuals grappling with a diverse range of mental health conditions, and have developed a keen interest in supporting those dealing with disordered eating and emotional dysregulation challenges.
I have over a decade of experience in both public and private mental health sectors. I have a compassionate and collaborative approach, and I work closely with clients to help them pinpoint their life-worth living goals, identify barriers to change, and support skills development to enhance behavioural effectiveness and improve overall sense of wellbeing. I have worked with individuals grappling with a diverse range of mental health conditions, and have developed a keen interest in supporting those dealing with disordered eating and emotional dysregulation challenges.
(03) 9131 8787 View (03) 9131 8787
Photo of Kirsty Troy, Psychologist in Toorak, VIC
Kirsty Troy
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Toorak, VIC 3142  (Online Only)
It can be overwhelming dealing with life’s challenges. You don't have to face it alone. My therapy approach is warm and approachable. I provide a respectful, non-judgemental environment where you can feel safe and cared for in talking about the hard things. Together, we will help build your insight and understanding of your difficulties. I can then provide you with evidence-based, practical strategies to improve your wellbeing.
It can be overwhelming dealing with life’s challenges. You don't have to face it alone. My therapy approach is warm and approachable. I provide a respectful, non-judgemental environment where you can feel safe and cared for in talking about the hard things. Together, we will help build your insight and understanding of your difficulties. I can then provide you with evidence-based, practical strategies to improve your wellbeing.
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Photo of Michelle Seelig, Counsellor in Toorak, VIC
Michelle Seelig
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Toorak, VIC 3142  (Online Only)
I work with midlife women to help them overcome people-pleasing, anxiety, depression and burnout so they can bring more meaning, purpose and joy to the next chapter of their life. Are you...Questioning life choices? Experiencing high levels of anxiety? Feeling stuck in a rut and believing nothing will change? Dissatisfied with your work or career? Struggling with your relationship? Getting back on your feet after divorce or adjusting to separation? Concerned about your health? Regretful about goals not yet achieved? Fearful of ageing?
I work with midlife women to help them overcome people-pleasing, anxiety, depression and burnout so they can bring more meaning, purpose and joy to the next chapter of their life. Are you...Questioning life choices? Experiencing high levels of anxiety? Feeling stuck in a rut and believing nothing will change? Dissatisfied with your work or career? Struggling with your relationship? Getting back on your feet after divorce or adjusting to separation? Concerned about your health? Regretful about goals not yet achieved? Fearful of ageing?
(03) 7500 5948 View (03) 7500 5948
Photo of Christina von Cohausen, Psychologist in Toorak, VIC
Christina von Cohausen
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toorak, VIC 3142
Christina is an experienced Senior Counselling Psychologist, Couples Therapist, AHPRA-approved Supervisor, and Hypnotherapist who is passionate about supporting people on their journey to greater psychological well-being and more fulfilling relationships. Her holistic approach focuses and integrates the mind, body, and emotions and draws on a wide range of therapeutic approaches to suit each client’s unique situation and needs. She specialises in Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) and is an internationally accredited EFT practitioner. Christina provides a warm and safe space to explore your inner world with guidance and care.
Christina is an experienced Senior Counselling Psychologist, Couples Therapist, AHPRA-approved Supervisor, and Hypnotherapist who is passionate about supporting people on their journey to greater psychological well-being and more fulfilling relationships. Her holistic approach focuses and integrates the mind, body, and emotions and draws on a wide range of therapeutic approaches to suit each client’s unique situation and needs. She specialises in Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) and is an internationally accredited EFT practitioner. Christina provides a warm and safe space to explore your inner world with guidance and care.
(03) 7003 2187 View (03) 7003 2187
Photo of SHYNE Wellness - Poli, Counsellor in Toorak, VIC
SHYNE Wellness - Poli
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toorak, VIC 3142
Poli is a multi-talented and committed Counsellor and Life Coach who is sincerely passionate about supporting her clients through their issues. Poli is a member of the Australian Counselling Association and International Coaching Federation and has assisted clients worldwide. She specialises in working with adolescents, couples, adults and families. Poli provides practical support that a client can use immediately to help them move forward in life.
Poli is a multi-talented and committed Counsellor and Life Coach who is sincerely passionate about supporting her clients through their issues. Poli is a member of the Australian Counselling Association and International Coaching Federation and has assisted clients worldwide. She specialises in working with adolescents, couples, adults and families. Poli provides practical support that a client can use immediately to help them move forward in life.
(03) 8595 4433 View (03) 8595 4433
Photo of Heart Expression - Heidi Gaspar, Psychologist in Toorak, VIC
Heart Expression - Heidi Gaspar
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Toorak, VIC 3142
Heart Expression was founded in 2009 by Heidi Gaspar, an experienced Psychologist providing an eclectic mix of clinical counselling and Psychological therapeutic services, using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Emotion Focussed Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Expressive Therapies such as Art Therapy, Sandplay, Music Therapy, and Mindfulness based stress reduction strategies for children, teenagers, adults, parents, couples and families. Experienced school Psychologist with many years in Private Practice.
Heart Expression was founded in 2009 by Heidi Gaspar, an experienced Psychologist providing an eclectic mix of clinical counselling and Psychological therapeutic services, using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Emotion Focussed Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Expressive Therapies such as Art Therapy, Sandplay, Music Therapy, and Mindfulness based stress reduction strategies for children, teenagers, adults, parents, couples and families. Experienced school Psychologist with many years in Private Practice.
(03) 9118 9036 View (03) 9118 9036
Photo of Bridgitte Booth, Psychologist in Toorak, VIC
Bridgitte Booth
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Toorak, VIC 3142
Hi, my name is Bridgitte and I am a Clinical Psychologist. Throughout my career, I have worked with both adolescents and adults in a range of settings, including, public mental health, private practice and in schools. When approaching therapy I have a collaborative and strengths based approach, with a strong emphasis on helping clients build confidence and develop practical strategies to manage what ever challenges they are facing. I am conversational and realistic in my approach to therapy and look forward to learning about the individual person to ensure support can be tailored to the person.
Hi, my name is Bridgitte and I am a Clinical Psychologist. Throughout my career, I have worked with both adolescents and adults in a range of settings, including, public mental health, private practice and in schools. When approaching therapy I have a collaborative and strengths based approach, with a strong emphasis on helping clients build confidence and develop practical strategies to manage what ever challenges they are facing. I am conversational and realistic in my approach to therapy and look forward to learning about the individual person to ensure support can be tailored to the person.
(03) 9118 9076 View (03) 9118 9076
Photo of Dylan Robert Charles Arnot, Psychologist in Toorak, VIC
Dylan Robert Charles Arnot
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toorak, VIC 3142
I work with a diverse array of adult and adolescent clients, including high performers in the creative industries, sports and workplace leadership, as well as those experiencing challenges such as burnout, life transitions, anxiety, panic attacks, and ASD.
I work with a diverse array of adult and adolescent clients, including high performers in the creative industries, sports and workplace leadership, as well as those experiencing challenges such as burnout, life transitions, anxiety, panic attacks, and ASD.
(03) 7003 2867 View (03) 7003 2867
Photo of Victoria Soar, Psychotherapist in Toorak, VIC
Victoria Soar
Psychotherapist, MA, AThR
Verified Verified
Toorak, VIC 3142
Hi, I'm Vicki. I am a qualified Art Psychotherapist in England and Australia. I am passionate about art therapy and specialise in trauma informed art psychotherapy. This involves helping and educating clients on how to regulate their nervous system with art making, in a safe therapeutic relationship. This is particularly effective for clients with ptsd and anxiety disorders (select mutism, ocd). Client's goals are often to learn new ways of regulating their emotions and reduce anxiety and build coping skills. We can do this with art therapy, so they can be empowered to live the life they desire, with freedom from the past.
Hi, I'm Vicki. I am a qualified Art Psychotherapist in England and Australia. I am passionate about art therapy and specialise in trauma informed art psychotherapy. This involves helping and educating clients on how to regulate their nervous system with art making, in a safe therapeutic relationship. This is particularly effective for clients with ptsd and anxiety disorders (select mutism, ocd). Client's goals are often to learn new ways of regulating their emotions and reduce anxiety and build coping skills. We can do this with art therapy, so they can be empowered to live the life they desire, with freedom from the past.
(03) 7003 2425 View (03) 7003 2425
Photo of Adam's Counselling, Counsellor in Toorak, VIC
Adam's Counselling
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Toorak, VIC 3142
Hello and welcome to Adam’s counselling. I offer a counselling service which is based on empathy, listening and exploring every day feelings concerning your life. Your voice is important to me and I treasure your individual uniqueness. It is my objective to unpack the feelings and emotions that are important to you so that you have an outlet to work through every day issues and challenges that affect you. Creating this connection is of critical importance to me and I hope we can share this wonderful journey together. I am a Master's qualified counsellor with a track record of client continuity.
Hello and welcome to Adam’s counselling. I offer a counselling service which is based on empathy, listening and exploring every day feelings concerning your life. Your voice is important to me and I treasure your individual uniqueness. It is my objective to unpack the feelings and emotions that are important to you so that you have an outlet to work through every day issues and challenges that affect you. Creating this connection is of critical importance to me and I hope we can share this wonderful journey together. I am a Master's qualified counsellor with a track record of client continuity.
(03) 7003 2964 View (03) 7003 2964
Photo of Marina Salambasis Clinical Psychologist, Psychologist in Toorak, VIC
Marina Salambasis Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Toorak, VIC 3142
If you suffer from trauma, ADHD, depression, anxiety, substance use, sleep issues, relationship issues, eating disorders, low self-esteem, or bereavement, please email me to arrange a free 10-minute consultation. I foster a non-judgmental and safe therapeutic environment where you will feel comfortable and supported discussing difficult topics. I will endeavor to assist you in accessing your own agency and internal resources, leading to greater self-awareness, emotional regulation, and a sense of empowerment.
If you suffer from trauma, ADHD, depression, anxiety, substance use, sleep issues, relationship issues, eating disorders, low self-esteem, or bereavement, please email me to arrange a free 10-minute consultation. I foster a non-judgmental and safe therapeutic environment where you will feel comfortable and supported discussing difficult topics. I will endeavor to assist you in accessing your own agency and internal resources, leading to greater self-awareness, emotional regulation, and a sense of empowerment.
(03) 7003 2085 View (03) 7003 2085
Photo of Emma Rice, Psychologist in Toorak, VIC
Emma Rice
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toorak, VIC 3142  (Online Only)
PE Psychology is a service dedicated to improving the mental health and wellbeing of individuals across the lifespan with a wide range of presenting issues. Emma is passionate about creating a safe, non-judgemental and empowering environment and relationship, to allow clients to explore the difficulties that are arising in their lives. She is dedicated to working with individuals to develop self-awareness and deep understanding of the complexities of their issues. She aims to promote self-acceptance and positive change by drawing on their strengths, and helping them move towards living a rich, full and meaningful life.
PE Psychology is a service dedicated to improving the mental health and wellbeing of individuals across the lifespan with a wide range of presenting issues. Emma is passionate about creating a safe, non-judgemental and empowering environment and relationship, to allow clients to explore the difficulties that are arising in their lives. She is dedicated to working with individuals to develop self-awareness and deep understanding of the complexities of their issues. She aims to promote self-acceptance and positive change by drawing on their strengths, and helping them move towards living a rich, full and meaningful life.
(03) 4240 3532 View (03) 4240 3532
Photo of PsychologyCare, Psychologist in Toorak, VIC
PsychologyCare
Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Verified Verified
Toorak, VIC 3142
Suffering is a part of life. We all suffer at some point in our lives. This does not mean we are unwell, it may in fact mean you are healthy and the response you are having is rational, logical and even predictable given your experience. In others words you are reacting normally to an abnormal situation. Here at PsychologyCare, we do not medicalise your misery but rather we are here to understand you and help you. If you are in suffering then you are a client we see.
Suffering is a part of life. We all suffer at some point in our lives. This does not mean we are unwell, it may in fact mean you are healthy and the response you are having is rational, logical and even predictable given your experience. In others words you are reacting normally to an abnormal situation. Here at PsychologyCare, we do not medicalise your misery but rather we are here to understand you and help you. If you are in suffering then you are a client we see.
(03) 7003 2260 View (03) 7003 2260
Photo of Naomi Coulter, Psychologist in Toorak, VIC
Naomi Coulter
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Toorak, VIC 3142
I work with adolescents and young adults who are experiencing challenges with how they relate to themselves, others and their environment. I value my clients as unique individuals and aim to foster a sense of hope, determination and resilience in people to make positive changes in their lives in whatever capacity is meaningful to them. I work a lot with people to help them identify, manage and regulate difficult emotions. This also involves a deeper understanding of emotional reactions and an opportunity to benefit from learning from past experiences.
I work with adolescents and young adults who are experiencing challenges with how they relate to themselves, others and their environment. I value my clients as unique individuals and aim to foster a sense of hope, determination and resilience in people to make positive changes in their lives in whatever capacity is meaningful to them. I work a lot with people to help them identify, manage and regulate difficult emotions. This also involves a deeper understanding of emotional reactions and an opportunity to benefit from learning from past experiences.
(03) 7003 2813 View (03) 7003 2813
Photo of Ruth Eismontas, Psychotherapist in Toorak, VIC
Ruth Eismontas
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Toorak, VIC 3142
If your relationship has hit a bad patch, you have ongoing conflict or have grown apart, I can heIp you. If you wish to improve your communication skills or learn how to manage conflict, then seriously consider calling me. I have the skills and experience to work jointly with you and your partner. I specialised in Relationship Counselling at Relationships Australia and have worked with couples and families for more than 20 years. My training also includes Clinical Family Therapy and I can support you with the parenting of your children.
If your relationship has hit a bad patch, you have ongoing conflict or have grown apart, I can heIp you. If you wish to improve your communication skills or learn how to manage conflict, then seriously consider calling me. I have the skills and experience to work jointly with you and your partner. I specialised in Relationship Counselling at Relationships Australia and have worked with couples and families for more than 20 years. My training also includes Clinical Family Therapy and I can support you with the parenting of your children.
(02) 4810 0640 View (02) 4810 0640

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Compassion Focused Counsellors

How does compassion-focused therapy work?

Compassion-Focused Therapy is based on the idea that humans have at least three emotion regulation systems, including one that responds to threats and another that allows us to self-soothe. Those who experienced serious childhood adversity, the theory goes, have a hyperactive threat system and an underperforming self-soothing system, leaving them vulnerable to shame and a hypercritical mindset. CFT focuses on bringing these systems back into balance, helping the client be kinder to themselves and better able to accept kindness from others.

Is compassion-focused therapy a type of CBT?

Compassion-focused therapy is closely related to cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and employs many of its techniques. In addition to CBT, CFT also draws from the fields of biology, evolutionary psychology, neuroscience, developmental psychology, and Buddhism. It also has similarities to some types of trauma-focused therapies.

Is compassion-focused therapy evidence based?

Evidence suggests that CFT can be helpful in the treatment of anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, psychosis, and other mental illnesses. It has also been shown to be beneficial for individuals who may not have diagnosable psychiatric disorders but who still struggle with persistent self-criticism and feelings of shame.

What are the limitations of compassion-focused therapy?

Compassion-focused therapy is still a relatively new therapy, and research on its efficacy is still in its early stages; while some studies have found positive results, many have suffered from quality issues or small sample sizes. And while most CFT clients find it difficult to practice self-compassion at first, some—especially those who actively fear compassion or are deeply uncomfortable being cared for—may not be fully open to the tenets of CFT, potentially limiting the therapy’s long-term effectiveness.