Attachment-based Counselling in Airport West, VIC

Photo of Jo Lockart - Kind Heart Counselling , Social Worker, MA, AASW
Kind Heart Counselling
Social Worker, MA, AASW
Serves Area
Safe, compassionate and non-pathologising therapy for women and girls 16+. As a woman you may have experienced trauma or significant emotional distress caused by discrimination, sexual assault, abuse, bullying, interpersonal violence or medical misogyny . These traumatic experiences may be significantly impacting your life where you're now seeking healing: to live a life with more peace and calm. I have experience supporting women with complex childhood trauma, or trauma as a result of domestic, institutional or sexual abuse. I promise to meet you where you are - gently and mindfully. I am also a qualified Clinical Supervisor.
Safe, compassionate and non-pathologising therapy for women and girls 16+. As a woman you may have experienced trauma or significant emotional distress caused by discrimination, sexual assault, abuse, bullying, interpersonal violence or medical misogyny . These traumatic experiences may be significantly impacting your life where you're now seeking healing: to live a life with more peace and calm. I have experience supporting women with complex childhood trauma, or trauma as a result of domestic, institutional or sexual abuse. I promise to meet you where you are - gently and mindfully. I am also a qualified Clinical Supervisor.
(03) 9068 6218 View (03) 9068 6218
Photo of Tatiana Assaad, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Tatiana Assaad
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Many of my clients are children and teens who are navigating anxiety, ADHD, autism, or challenges at school. Parents often come to me seeking answers, support, and a plan to help their child feel more regulated, understood, and connected. These families want someone who truly “gets it”—who can balance professional skill with warmth and care.
Many of my clients are children and teens who are navigating anxiety, ADHD, autism, or challenges at school. Parents often come to me seeking answers, support, and a plan to help their child feel more regulated, understood, and connected. These families want someone who truly “gets it”—who can balance professional skill with warmth and care.
0468 401 822 View 0468 401 822
Photo of Ellie Rosenthal - Tune In Counselling, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Tune In Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Serves Area
My name is Ellie. I am a registered Counsellor and trained TRTP Practitioner and Vocal Performance Coach. I have a professional background working in the EAP and Critical incident response sector offering support for various corporate, government and law enforcement employees. I have a particular interest in supporting people harmed by narcissistic abuse and work place bullying as well as identifying recurring patterns in ones life. Online only at this stage Individual $100 Couples $140 must call to book. Students $85. Please book free 10min consult/intake first.
My name is Ellie. I am a registered Counsellor and trained TRTP Practitioner and Vocal Performance Coach. I have a professional background working in the EAP and Critical incident response sector offering support for various corporate, government and law enforcement employees. I have a particular interest in supporting people harmed by narcissistic abuse and work place bullying as well as identifying recurring patterns in ones life. Online only at this stage Individual $100 Couples $140 must call to book. Students $85. Please book free 10min consult/intake first.
(03) 8104 9070 View (03) 8104 9070
Photo of Germaine Gergis, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Germaine Gergis
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Dr Germaine Gergis, is a board-endorsed Clinical Psychologist, Supervisor and Lecturer with many years' experience in delivering high quality assessments and treatment to infants, children, adolescents and adults, and their families. Germaine has worked across private and public sectors helping those who have presented with a diverse range of mental health issues and neurodevelopmental disorders. She has extensive experience in working with mood & anxiety disorders, OCD, trauma-related disorders and personality disorders. Speciality roles include infant mental health & autism spectrum disorders, including providing second opinions.
Dr Germaine Gergis, is a board-endorsed Clinical Psychologist, Supervisor and Lecturer with many years' experience in delivering high quality assessments and treatment to infants, children, adolescents and adults, and their families. Germaine has worked across private and public sectors helping those who have presented with a diverse range of mental health issues and neurodevelopmental disorders. She has extensive experience in working with mood & anxiety disorders, OCD, trauma-related disorders and personality disorders. Speciality roles include infant mental health & autism spectrum disorders, including providing second opinions.
(03) 8338 4854 View (03) 8338 4854
Photo of Janelle Wilson, Social Worker, AMHSW
Janelle Wilson
Social Worker, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and Therapist with over 30 years experience working with individuals, couples and families. I treat a wide range of mental health issues including anxierty, depression and attachment injury I offer a mix of practical strategies (such as ACT, CBT and mnidfulness) and deeper exploration of your feelings and experiences. I am particularly interested in the emotions and beliefs we hold that get us stuck in problematic and repetitive patterns of relating. By becoming aware of these patterns, we can step out of distress and conflict and rebuild connection to ourself and significant others.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and Therapist with over 30 years experience working with individuals, couples and families. I treat a wide range of mental health issues including anxierty, depression and attachment injury I offer a mix of practical strategies (such as ACT, CBT and mnidfulness) and deeper exploration of your feelings and experiences. I am particularly interested in the emotions and beliefs we hold that get us stuck in problematic and repetitive patterns of relating. By becoming aware of these patterns, we can step out of distress and conflict and rebuild connection to ourself and significant others.
(03) 8771 5996 View (03) 8771 5996
Photo of Laura Parker, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Laura Parker
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I provide neuroaffirming, evidence-based support for children and adolescents aged 8-17 through assessments and therapy. I work with clients navigating stress, anxiety, grief, school challenges, ADHD, autism, and specific learning disorders. I also offer educational support to schools and can provide assessments across the lifespan. My approach focuses on understanding strengths and supporting practical strategies to help clients feel heard, understood, and empowered.
I provide neuroaffirming, evidence-based support for children and adolescents aged 8-17 through assessments and therapy. I work with clients navigating stress, anxiety, grief, school challenges, ADHD, autism, and specific learning disorders. I also offer educational support to schools and can provide assessments across the lifespan. My approach focuses on understanding strengths and supporting practical strategies to help clients feel heard, understood, and empowered.
0493 396 893 View 0493 396 893

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ana Galbán León, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Ana Galbán León
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Fitzroy, VIC 3065
I provide a warm, attuned, and safe space where you can explore your internal world, deepen self-awareness, and reconnect with your inner strengths. I have a special interest in supporting young women struggling with low self-esteem, who feel stuck in relationships where they lose themselves, repeat patterns that leave them unsatisfied, or struggle to trust themselves, often connected to unresolved family trauma. Together, we work to build self-trust, uncover personal resources, and create meaningful change. It’s a privilege to support individuals in improving their lives, and I am grateful to be part of people's healing journeys :)
I provide a warm, attuned, and safe space where you can explore your internal world, deepen self-awareness, and reconnect with your inner strengths. I have a special interest in supporting young women struggling with low self-esteem, who feel stuck in relationships where they lose themselves, repeat patterns that leave them unsatisfied, or struggle to trust themselves, often connected to unresolved family trauma. Together, we work to build self-trust, uncover personal resources, and create meaningful change. It’s a privilege to support individuals in improving their lives, and I am grateful to be part of people's healing journeys :)
(03) 8330 3112 View (03) 8330 3112
Photo of Xue Yuki Mei, Counsellor, PACFA
Xue Yuki Mei
Counsellor, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Murrumbeena, VIC 3163
Hi, I am Yuki. I am a neurodivergent (AuDHD) & queer counsellor who is committed to providing a safe & nonjudgmental (shame-free) space for all genders, identities, neurotypes, and bodies. I collaborate with clients to explore their unique inner experiences being identified as neurodivergent; LGBTQIA+; CALD and more. I work from a non-pathologising stance, meaning that I will not see clients solely as their labels and/or diagnoses, rather, each person is their own unique being and we co-design strategies that work for the particular individual/situation.
Hi, I am Yuki. I am a neurodivergent (AuDHD) & queer counsellor who is committed to providing a safe & nonjudgmental (shame-free) space for all genders, identities, neurotypes, and bodies. I collaborate with clients to explore their unique inner experiences being identified as neurodivergent; LGBTQIA+; CALD and more. I work from a non-pathologising stance, meaning that I will not see clients solely as their labels and/or diagnoses, rather, each person is their own unique being and we co-design strategies that work for the particular individual/situation.
(03) 7500 5903 View (03) 7500 5903
Photo of Tracey R - Tracey - Your Inner Light, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L4
Tracey - Your Inner Light
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L4
Elsternwick, VIC 3185
Hi! I'm a Holistic Counsellor, Sound Healing Practitioner and Nutrition, Health & Wellness Coach. I work with women and specialise in mind-body holistic wellbeing. My approach blends Psychology, Spirituality and Wellness with a social justice and systems lens. My gentle and relaxed approach assists you to understand the root cause of personal challenges through increasing awareness, compassion, connection and prioritising stress management & self-care.
Hi! I'm a Holistic Counsellor, Sound Healing Practitioner and Nutrition, Health & Wellness Coach. I work with women and specialise in mind-body holistic wellbeing. My approach blends Psychology, Spirituality and Wellness with a social justice and systems lens. My gentle and relaxed approach assists you to understand the root cause of personal challenges through increasing awareness, compassion, connection and prioritising stress management & self-care.
(03) 7003 2423 View (03) 7003 2423
Photo of Deborah Marianne Cole, AASW
Deborah Marianne Cole
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
At different stages in our lives we are thrown many curved balls. How do we cope when they come our way? Sometimes we might feel completely unable to find a way through. We may become overwhelmed and so distressed we cannot think and get stuck in negative patterns. Our sleeping, drinking and eating patterns may start to change. Our family relationships may become more difficult. We might be angry, more conflictual or want to withdraw and hide. At times like this it can help to have someone non-judgmental, compassionate and completely impartial to support us find a way through and help us develop some essential survival skills.
At different stages in our lives we are thrown many curved balls. How do we cope when they come our way? Sometimes we might feel completely unable to find a way through. We may become overwhelmed and so distressed we cannot think and get stuck in negative patterns. Our sleeping, drinking and eating patterns may start to change. Our family relationships may become more difficult. We might be angry, more conflictual or want to withdraw and hide. At times like this it can help to have someone non-judgmental, compassionate and completely impartial to support us find a way through and help us develop some essential survival skills.
0402 892 600 View 0402 892 600
Photo of Arzu Aksu Chapman, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Arzu Aksu Chapman
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
You, seeking understanding and connection in a world that often feels overwhelming. My ideal client navigates the intricate landscape of neurodivergence—be it ADHD, Autism, or related experiences. In couples, I welcome those facing unique dynamics, including neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ pairs. Your issues may vary, but the core need is universal: a safe space to explore challenges, cultivate understanding, and forge a path towards fulfillment. As a passionate therapist specializing in neurodiversity and couples therapy, my approach transcends conventional methods. Let's embark on a journey where acceptance and growth intersect.
You, seeking understanding and connection in a world that often feels overwhelming. My ideal client navigates the intricate landscape of neurodivergence—be it ADHD, Autism, or related experiences. In couples, I welcome those facing unique dynamics, including neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ pairs. Your issues may vary, but the core need is universal: a safe space to explore challenges, cultivate understanding, and forge a path towards fulfillment. As a passionate therapist specializing in neurodiversity and couples therapy, my approach transcends conventional methods. Let's embark on a journey where acceptance and growth intersect.
(02) 8403 1928 View (02) 8403 1928
Photo of Hakan Mapolar, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Hakan Mapolar
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Caroline Springs, VIC 3023
I am a Counsellor/Psychotherapist who works in the Caroline Springs area. I am passionate about mental health and use a variety of therapeutic approaches. Some of the therapeutic approaches include Gestalt Counselling/psychotherapy, Buddhist Psychology, Somatic therapy, Mindfulness therapy, Jungian therapy, Solution based therapy as well as other therapy techniques. I provide Individual Counselling, Couples counselling, Family therapy and Adolescent and Child Counselling. Working in mental health and in the Western suburbs is a passion. I provide therapy for anxiety, stress, general counselling,depression and other mental issues.
I am a Counsellor/Psychotherapist who works in the Caroline Springs area. I am passionate about mental health and use a variety of therapeutic approaches. Some of the therapeutic approaches include Gestalt Counselling/psychotherapy, Buddhist Psychology, Somatic therapy, Mindfulness therapy, Jungian therapy, Solution based therapy as well as other therapy techniques. I provide Individual Counselling, Couples counselling, Family therapy and Adolescent and Child Counselling. Working in mental health and in the Western suburbs is a passion. I provide therapy for anxiety, stress, general counselling,depression and other mental issues.
0479 098 610 View 0479 098 610
Photo of Tunteeya Yamaoka, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Tunteeya Yamaoka
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Prahran, VIC 3181
I am a psychologist and couples counsellor who supports people with discovering their identity and finding a greater sense of meaning and purpose in their lives. My special area of interest includes cross-cultural identity, ADHD, OCD and relationship problems.
I am a psychologist and couples counsellor who supports people with discovering their identity and finding a greater sense of meaning and purpose in their lives. My special area of interest includes cross-cultural identity, ADHD, OCD and relationship problems.
(03) 7003 2099 View (03) 7003 2099
Photo of Ilana Laps, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Ilana Laps
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Elwood, VIC 3184
I am an experienced psychotherapist, counsellor and educator, with additional niche interests in non-duality and working therapeutically with dreams. I have 20 years of professional experience working with life's grief, bereavement and existential concerns, such as finding meaning after loss, being with and growing through traumatic events, and facing our own mortality.
I am an experienced psychotherapist, counsellor and educator, with additional niche interests in non-duality and working therapeutically with dreams. I have 20 years of professional experience working with life's grief, bereavement and existential concerns, such as finding meaning after loss, being with and growing through traumatic events, and facing our own mortality.
(03) 7003 2636 View (03) 7003 2636
Photo of Tom Trikojus, Social Worker, AMHSW
Tom Trikojus
Social Worker, AMHSW
Footscray, VIC 3011
I’ve been working as a psychotherapist, counsellor and supervisor in private practice in Footscray for 18 years. The vibrancy, diversity and unique qualities of Footscray and the inner western suburbs of Melbourne have always felt like the right fit for my practice. I’ve worked with a diverse range of issues and presentations. As well as supporting people through mental health issues, I’m also interested in helping people develop their capacity for awareness and self-discovery. I have a steadfast commitment to the depth and transformative potential of the therapeutic process.
I’ve been working as a psychotherapist, counsellor and supervisor in private practice in Footscray for 18 years. The vibrancy, diversity and unique qualities of Footscray and the inner western suburbs of Melbourne have always felt like the right fit for my practice. I’ve worked with a diverse range of issues and presentations. As well as supporting people through mental health issues, I’m also interested in helping people develop their capacity for awareness and self-discovery. I have a steadfast commitment to the depth and transformative potential of the therapeutic process.
(03) 8595 5296 View (03) 8595 5296
Photo of Helen Fearnley, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Helen Fearnley
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Brunswick, VIC 3056
It is normal to feel challenged by life at times. However, if you feel stuck, or overwhelmed, perhaps I can help. I offer both individual therapy and relationship therapy, to assist you to navigate life's challenges. I have 14 years of experience spanning general mental health, forensic mental health, sexual health, attachment trauma and complex trauma.
It is normal to feel challenged by life at times. However, if you feel stuck, or overwhelmed, perhaps I can help. I offer both individual therapy and relationship therapy, to assist you to navigate life's challenges. I have 14 years of experience spanning general mental health, forensic mental health, sexual health, attachment trauma and complex trauma.
(03) 9118 9060 View (03) 9118 9060
Photo of Lisa Formosa
Lisa Formosa
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Receive individualised support to create the life you choose. Choose a practitioner who understands Autism, ADHD, neurodivergence, high sensitivity and introversion. Explore the creation of a life that is aligned with your values, interests and joy. Develop your inner self knowledge. Access neurodiversity affirmative Practice.
Receive individualised support to create the life you choose. Choose a practitioner who understands Autism, ADHD, neurodivergence, high sensitivity and introversion. Explore the creation of a life that is aligned with your values, interests and joy. Develop your inner self knowledge. Access neurodiversity affirmative Practice.
(03) 7302 8068 View (03) 7302 8068
Photo of Amy Somers, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Amy Somers
Counsellor, ACA-L1
1 Endorsed
Saint Kilda East, VIC 3183
You've come here because you're suffering in some way. It is my privilege to be able to offer a therapy space for people who want to face the pain in their lives, and see what might be on the other side. Many people come at times of change or transition: relationships, life stages, careers, dark nights of the soul, or plunges into the deep end. I work primarily with people experiencing the ongoing effects of trauma and addiction. In sessions, I support you to identify the conflicts, emotions, memories, and relationship struggles that repeat and we find ways to experience these differently.
You've come here because you're suffering in some way. It is my privilege to be able to offer a therapy space for people who want to face the pain in their lives, and see what might be on the other side. Many people come at times of change or transition: relationships, life stages, careers, dark nights of the soul, or plunges into the deep end. I work primarily with people experiencing the ongoing effects of trauma and addiction. In sessions, I support you to identify the conflicts, emotions, memories, and relationship struggles that repeat and we find ways to experience these differently.
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Photo of Penelope Beth McDonald - Penny McDonald Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Penny McDonald Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Carlton North, VIC 3054
I am a registered psychologist with 20 years' experience providing therapy to individuals who have experienced a range of issues including sexual assault, family violence, grief and loss, other significant traumas, depression and anxiety, and relational issues. I have a keen interest in trauma recovery and with a focus on complex, attachment and developmental trauma. I work with a client centred approach with flexibility as the client is the expert in their own lives. My work assists those to work with the parts of self that might get in the way of life and relationships, build self-compassion and safety.
I am a registered psychologist with 20 years' experience providing therapy to individuals who have experienced a range of issues including sexual assault, family violence, grief and loss, other significant traumas, depression and anxiety, and relational issues. I have a keen interest in trauma recovery and with a focus on complex, attachment and developmental trauma. I work with a client centred approach with flexibility as the client is the expert in their own lives. My work assists those to work with the parts of self that might get in the way of life and relationships, build self-compassion and safety.
(03) 7003 2022 View (03) 7003 2022
Photo of Tania Ahkin, Counsellor
Tania Ahkin
Counsellor
Endeavour Hills, VIC 3802
You give so much to others — your family, your relationship, your work — but somewhere along the way, you’ve lost connection with yourself. Maybe you’re: In a relationship that feels disconnected or painful A burnt-out mother who’s forgotten who she is Single and tired of repeating the same dating patterns In a partnership that’s struggling, and you don’t know what to do next You’re craving clarity, connection, and real support. You want to feel seen, valued, and like you again — not just surviving, but truly living. You're not broken. You're not failing. You're just ready for change — and you don’t have to do it alone.
You give so much to others — your family, your relationship, your work — but somewhere along the way, you’ve lost connection with yourself. Maybe you’re: In a relationship that feels disconnected or painful A burnt-out mother who’s forgotten who she is Single and tired of repeating the same dating patterns In a partnership that’s struggling, and you don’t know what to do next You’re craving clarity, connection, and real support. You want to feel seen, valued, and like you again — not just surviving, but truly living. You're not broken. You're not failing. You're just ready for change — and you don’t have to do it alone.
(03) 8771 5149 View (03) 8771 5149
Attachment-based Counsellors

Is attachment-based therapy the same as attachment therapy?

Attachment-based therapy may be confused with what is called “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy”), a discredited and dangerous approach to treating children with attachment disorders, autism, or other mental health concerns. Attachment therapy—not attachment-based therapy—may involve restraining a child, forcing eye contact, and other coercive or abusive techniques. None of these practices are used in attachment-based therapy and the two modalities are in no way related.

What should I expect from attachment-based therapy?

Attachment-based therapy is based on attachment theory, which posits that children’s early relationships with their caregivers strongly influence their ability to navigate the world later in life. Thus, adults who seek attachment-based therapy should expect to deeply explore their childhood, identifying the dynamics or experiences that disrupted their attachment and the steps necessary to overcome challenges that arose as a result. Parents and children should expect to explore the possible factors that disrupted the parent-child relationship and work toward restoring trust and connection.

How long does attachment-based therapy last?

Certain forms of attachment-based therapy, especially those designed for parents and children, last for a set number of sessions; for example, Attachment and Biobehavioural Catch-Up, a specific attachment-based approach for young children who have undergone early adversity, unfolds over 10 one-hour sessions. When attachment-based therapy is practiced on adults or combined with other modalities, it may not last a specific length of time; clients may wish to ask prospective therapists how long they expect treatment to take.

Does attachment-based therapy work?

Most of the research on attachment-based therapy focuses on children and adolescents. Some of this research shows a positive effect, especially for attachment-based family therapy (ABFT). Other studies, however, have found that attachment-based therapy is no more effective than other approaches to childhood depression, anxiety, or suicidality. Less is known about the therapy’s efficacy on adult populations.