Schema Therapy Psychologists and Therapists in Altona, VIC

Photo of Dayna Chivell, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Dayna Chivell
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Altona, VIC 3018
Drawing on CBT, ACT, Schema Therapy, mindfulness, and EMDR, I support clients to understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, develop effective coping strategies, process trauma, build resilience, and create meaningful, lasting change in their lives.
Many of the adults I work with have trauma and experience anxiety, depression, or personality-related difficulties, and often feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from themselves and others. They seek a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental therapeutic space where they can explore their experiences, process emotions, gain insight, and develop practical coping strategies. Their goals include fostering self-acceptance, strengthening relationships, building resilience, and living more authentically. Ultimately, they want to move from merely surviving to truly thriving — feeling grounded and empowered.
Drawing on CBT, ACT, Schema Therapy, mindfulness, and EMDR, I support clients to understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, develop effective coping strategies, process trauma, build resilience, and create meaningful, lasting change in their lives.
Many of the adults I work with have trauma and experience anxiety, depression, or personality-related difficulties, and often feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from themselves and others. They seek a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental therapeutic space where they can explore their experiences, process emotions, gain insight, and develop practical coping strategies. Their goals include fostering self-acceptance, strengthening relationships, building resilience, and living more authentically. Ultimately, they want to move from merely surviving to truly thriving — feeling grounded and empowered.
(03) 9397 0977 View (03) 9397 0977
Photo of Dr Jen Emslie, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Jen Emslie
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Altona, VIC 3018
I mainly use CBT, EMDR and Schema Therapy in my practice.
You might seem like you’re doing well from the outside — but inside, you’re stretched thin. You're constantly juggling demands, pushing yourself to meet high expectations, and rarely giving yourself a break. You feel worn out, stuck in your head, or disconnected from the people and things that used to bring joy. You want to feel more present, at ease, and in control — but don’t know how to get there.
I mainly use CBT, EMDR and Schema Therapy in my practice.
You might seem like you’re doing well from the outside — but inside, you’re stretched thin. You're constantly juggling demands, pushing yourself to meet high expectations, and rarely giving yourself a break. You feel worn out, stuck in your head, or disconnected from the people and things that used to bring joy. You want to feel more present, at ease, and in control — but don’t know how to get there.
(03) 8771 4923 View (03) 8771 4923
Photo of Bronwyn Dwyer, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Bronwyn Dwyer
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Many of my clients come to therapy because they're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply not quite like themselves. Others are looking to better understand long-standing patterns, improve their relationships, or navigate a difficult period in life. I work with adults experiencing concerns such as anxiety, depression, burnout, trauma, eating disorders, and major life transitions.
Many of my clients come to therapy because they're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply not quite like themselves. Others are looking to better understand long-standing patterns, improve their relationships, or navigate a difficult period in life. I work with adults experiencing concerns such as anxiety, depression, burnout, trauma, eating disorders, and major life transitions.
0419 781 724 View 0419 781 724
Photo of Joanne Cook, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Joanne Cook
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Jo. I am a registered Mental Health Social Worker and Clinical Family Therapist. My dog, Blanche, is my trusted colleague, who offers animal assisted therapy. I specialise in child, adolescence and family therapy. Children learn through play which is the cornerstone of my evidence based therapeutic interventions. I offer therapy to adults and families who wish to explore relational patterns, heal trauma and mobilise strengths to enjoy deeper connections and improve family functioning. By cultivating a therapeutic relationship and using curiosity over judgment, I offer a space for you to think about and work towards change.
Hi, I’m Jo. I am a registered Mental Health Social Worker and Clinical Family Therapist. My dog, Blanche, is my trusted colleague, who offers animal assisted therapy. I specialise in child, adolescence and family therapy. Children learn through play which is the cornerstone of my evidence based therapeutic interventions. I offer therapy to adults and families who wish to explore relational patterns, heal trauma and mobilise strengths to enjoy deeper connections and improve family functioning. By cultivating a therapeutic relationship and using curiosity over judgment, I offer a space for you to think about and work towards change.
(08) 9126 9091 View (08) 9126 9091
Photo of Daniel Paglialonga, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Daniel Paglialonga
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Have you ever been kept up late at night reliving distressing memories? Does your mind chatter and strong emotions interfere with your day-to-day? Are you looking to understand yourself more and make some changes? If your answer is "yes", then we should talk.
Have you ever been kept up late at night reliving distressing memories? Does your mind chatter and strong emotions interfere with your day-to-day? Are you looking to understand yourself more and make some changes? If your answer is "yes", then we should talk.
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Photo of Jess Bernardi, Psychologist, PsychD, MACPA
Jess Bernardi
Psychologist, PsychD, MACPA
Serves Area
I'm a Clinical Psychologist and registered supervisor with experience treating individuals in a wide range of mental health settings. I tailor my clinical skills to meet the unique needs of each individual, ensuring that they benefit as much as possible from the therapeutic experience and achieve richer, fuller and more meaningful lives.
I'm a Clinical Psychologist and registered supervisor with experience treating individuals in a wide range of mental health settings. I tailor my clinical skills to meet the unique needs of each individual, ensuring that they benefit as much as possible from the therapeutic experience and achieve richer, fuller and more meaningful lives.
(03) 9034 8481 View (03) 9034 8481
Photo of Sylvia Collinetti, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Sylvia Collinetti
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I am a Senior Clinical Psychologist with over 25 years of experience working across public and private mental health settings with children, adolescents, and adults. I specialise in developmental and relational trauma, PTSD, Complex PTSD, dissociation, personality vulnerabilities, relationship difficulties, and struggles with self-worth and identity. I work within a deeply trauma-informed framework that prioritises emotional safety, trust, and connection, creating a space where you can feel genuinely seen, heard, and supported. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is a central framework within my practice.
I am a Senior Clinical Psychologist with over 25 years of experience working across public and private mental health settings with children, adolescents, and adults. I specialise in developmental and relational trauma, PTSD, Complex PTSD, dissociation, personality vulnerabilities, relationship difficulties, and struggles with self-worth and identity. I work within a deeply trauma-informed framework that prioritises emotional safety, trust, and connection, creating a space where you can feel genuinely seen, heard, and supported. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is a central framework within my practice.
(03) 7003 2284 View (03) 7003 2284
Photo of Fiona Jensen, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Fiona Jensen
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
She primarily uses schema therapy and draws on CBT, ACT, DBT interventions; using a strengths based approach.
Fiona is highly experienced and her approach is warm and easy. She understands how hard it can be to ask for support and so aims to make you feel as comfortable as is possible.
She primarily uses schema therapy and draws on CBT, ACT, DBT interventions; using a strengths based approach.
Fiona is highly experienced and her approach is warm and easy. She understands how hard it can be to ask for support and so aims to make you feel as comfortable as is possible.
(03) 7302 8248 View (03) 7302 8248

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr Zahra Noori, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Dr Zahra Noori
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Maribyrnong, VIC 3032
Dr Zahra is a psychologist working in both the private and public sector in Victoria. She works with a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety in its many forms (e.g., generalised anxiety, social anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder), marriage and relationship issues, stress, anger, life transitions, loss and adjustment, just to name a few.
Dr Zahra is a psychologist working in both the private and public sector in Victoria. She works with a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety in its many forms (e.g., generalised anxiety, social anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder), marriage and relationship issues, stress, anger, life transitions, loss and adjustment, just to name a few.
(03) 9068 6205 View (03) 9068 6205
Photo of Jessica Brown, Counsellor, MSc, PACFA
Jessica Brown
Counsellor, MSc, PACFA
Online Only
My approach is gentle, collaborative, and grounded in schema therapy, viewed through a feminist lens.
I incorporate practical tools like guided reflection, imagery, and grounding exercises. While our work may begin with a specific concern around sexuality or intimacy, the process often creates positive ripple effects, strengthening emotional wellbeing and enhancing your overall quality of life.
My approach is gentle, collaborative, and grounded in schema therapy, viewed through a feminist lens.
I incorporate practical tools like guided reflection, imagery, and grounding exercises. While our work may begin with a specific concern around sexuality or intimacy, the process often creates positive ripple effects, strengthening emotional wellbeing and enhancing your overall quality of life.
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Photo of Amy Wanschers, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Amy Wanschers
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Collingwood, VIC 3066
My ideal client is an adult or older adolescent who brings long‑running relationship patterns, the lingering impact of childhood trauma, or chronic low mood and wants deeper, lasting change; they’re tired of repeating the same outcomes and ready to understand the origins of their reactions rather than just manage symptoms. They need a safe, non‑judgemental space, a clear formulation that links past experiences to present problems, and practical skills they can use between sessions. Their goals are to reduce shame and reactivity, build secure, reciprocal relationships, stabilise mood and daily routines, and develop boundaries.
My ideal client is an adult or older adolescent who brings long‑running relationship patterns, the lingering impact of childhood trauma, or chronic low mood and wants deeper, lasting change; they’re tired of repeating the same outcomes and ready to understand the origins of their reactions rather than just manage symptoms. They need a safe, non‑judgemental space, a clear formulation that links past experiences to present problems, and practical skills they can use between sessions. Their goals are to reduce shame and reactivity, build secure, reciprocal relationships, stabilise mood and daily routines, and develop boundaries.
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Photo of Alexa Blaze - Jigsaw Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Jigsaw Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Park Orchards, VIC 3114
Jigsaw Psychology is a private practice in the Eastern Suburbs of Melbourne that offers assessments and therapy to school-aged children, teens, adults and older adults. We also offer support to parents.
Jigsaw Psychology is a private practice in the Eastern Suburbs of Melbourne that offers assessments and therapy to school-aged children, teens, adults and older adults. We also offer support to parents.
(03) 8771 4241 View (03) 8771 4241
Photo of Filomena Bruno, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Filomena Bruno
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
Are you feeling stuck or perhaps overwhelmed? You might be at the 'cross-roads' in an area of your personal and/or professional life and you aren't clear on how to move forward. We can get caught up in worrying about what's happened (this could be 5 minutes ago, 5 months or even 5+ years ago ) or perhaps, worrying about future what-if scenarios that keep you stuck. The good news is, you will learn to apply simple yet powerful evidence-based tools to help you move forward with purpose and emotional resilience. Invest in your wellbeing today.
Are you feeling stuck or perhaps overwhelmed? You might be at the 'cross-roads' in an area of your personal and/or professional life and you aren't clear on how to move forward. We can get caught up in worrying about what's happened (this could be 5 minutes ago, 5 months or even 5+ years ago ) or perhaps, worrying about future what-if scenarios that keep you stuck. The good news is, you will learn to apply simple yet powerful evidence-based tools to help you move forward with purpose and emotional resilience. Invest in your wellbeing today.
(08) 7008 7110 View (08) 7008 7110
Photo of Marina Salambasis, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Marina Salambasis
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Melbourne, VIC 3000
If you suffer from trauma, ADHD, ASD/Autism, 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, ASD/Autism, 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 Dr Tristan Leslie Snell, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Tristan Leslie Snell
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Sandringham, VIC 3191
I draw on evidence‑based approaches such as Gottman therapy, schema therapy for couples, CBT, ACT, EMDR, and schema therapy to help clients understand patterns, heal emotional wounds, and build healthier, more fulfilling relationships.
I support people with a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, grief, and stress. My work is grounded in a person‑centred approach that prioritises a strong therapeutic relationship and uses evidence‑based methods to enhance wellbeing.
I draw on evidence‑based approaches such as Gottman therapy, schema therapy for couples, CBT, ACT, EMDR, and schema therapy to help clients understand patterns, heal emotional wounds, and build healthier, more fulfilling relationships.
I support people with a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, grief, and stress. My work is grounded in a person‑centred approach that prioritises a strong therapeutic relationship and uses evidence‑based methods to enhance wellbeing.
(03) 9118 9037 View (03) 9118 9037
Photo of Georgina Draxler, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Georgina Draxler
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Pascoe Vale, VIC 3044
Approaching therapy with a trauma-informed, person-centered, and affirming lens, I utilise therapeutic modalities such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), EMDR, & Schema Therapy.
Hi, I’m Georgina, a registered psychologist offering warm, accessible, and affirming support for young people and adults across Australia. I have an interest in inner child healing, attachment trauma, and complex PTSD. My approach is trauma-informed and neurodiversity-affirming, drawing on evidence-based modalities to help clients make sense of their past and reconnect with their authentic selves. I also support clients in exploring their neurotype (including autism and ADHD), and offer perinatal support for those navigating pregnancy, parenthood, birth trauma, and perinatal anxiety or OCD.
Approaching therapy with a trauma-informed, person-centered, and affirming lens, I utilise therapeutic modalities such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), EMDR, & Schema Therapy.
Hi, I’m Georgina, a registered psychologist offering warm, accessible, and affirming support for young people and adults across Australia. I have an interest in inner child healing, attachment trauma, and complex PTSD. My approach is trauma-informed and neurodiversity-affirming, drawing on evidence-based modalities to help clients make sense of their past and reconnect with their authentic selves. I also support clients in exploring their neurotype (including autism and ADHD), and offer perinatal support for those navigating pregnancy, parenthood, birth trauma, and perinatal anxiety or OCD.
(03) 7003 2409 View (03) 7003 2409
Photo of Karyn Krawford, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Karyn Krawford
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
Hi, I am a registered clinical Psychotherapist and social scientist. I help a broad range of people and challenges that range from childhood events and trauma to relationship challenges both in families, partnerships, and professional relationships. I help people overcome self-defeating actions and survive in ways that support healthy functioning and enjoyment of life. These can relate to stress, anxiety, life changes or environment, relationship breakdowns and death of treasured others. I provide a free consultation and currently work online only.
Hi, I am a registered clinical Psychotherapist and social scientist. I help a broad range of people and challenges that range from childhood events and trauma to relationship challenges both in families, partnerships, and professional relationships. I help people overcome self-defeating actions and survive in ways that support healthy functioning and enjoyment of life. These can relate to stress, anxiety, life changes or environment, relationship breakdowns and death of treasured others. I provide a free consultation and currently work online only.
(02) 9100 0537 View (02) 9100 0537
Photo of Emily Hohnke, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Emily Hohnke
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Fitzroy, VIC 3065
These include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Schema Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy for Eating Disorders (CBT-E), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Emily is a warm and thoughtful Psychologist and Clinical Psychology Registrar. She is committed to a collaborative partnership with her clients and aims to help them enhance their wellbeing through a compassionate approach. She has training and experience in a range of areas, including anxiety, depression, body image issues, eating disorders and relationship difficulties.
These include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Schema Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy for Eating Disorders (CBT-E), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Emily is a warm and thoughtful Psychologist and Clinical Psychology Registrar. She is committed to a collaborative partnership with her clients and aims to help them enhance their wellbeing through a compassionate approach. She has training and experience in a range of areas, including anxiety, depression, body image issues, eating disorders and relationship difficulties.
(03) 9111 5355 View (03) 9111 5355
Photo of Heather Fox, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Heather Fox
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I draw on Schema Therapy, EMDR, and psychodynamic approaches to help you understand the deeper patterns shaping your life.
Maybe you've always been the one who keeps it together. Or maybe you've spent years feeling like something is just off — in your relationships, in how you see yourself, in the patterns you can't seem to break no matter how hard you try. You're not imagining it. And you don't have to keep navigating it alone. I'm Heather, a registered psychologist on the Central Coast. I work with adults ready to go beneath the surface — to understand not just what they're struggling with, but why, and where it began.
I draw on Schema Therapy, EMDR, and psychodynamic approaches to help you understand the deeper patterns shaping your life.
Maybe you've always been the one who keeps it together. Or maybe you've spent years feeling like something is just off — in your relationships, in how you see yourself, in the patterns you can't seem to break no matter how hard you try. You're not imagining it. And you don't have to keep navigating it alone. I'm Heather, a registered psychologist on the Central Coast. I work with adults ready to go beneath the surface — to understand not just what they're struggling with, but why, and where it began.
(02) 4307 5116 View (02) 4307 5116
Photo of Andra McClure, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L3
Andra McClure
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L3
Heathmont, VIC 3135
Hi, I'm Andra an experienced clinical counsellor. Are you looking for psychological support/interventions for: depression, anxiety, panic attacks, anger, suicidal thoughts, or flashbacks (visual, auditory or feelings)? Are you having relationship difficulties, such as problems with a partner (or ex), family member, co-worker or friend? Are you struggling with parenting/behavioural difficulties? I have a particular interest in PTSD, complex and attachment trauma whether from childhood issues, hurtful, narcissistic or abusive people, illness, or accidents. I also have a strong focus & experience supporting neurodivergent clients.
Hi, I'm Andra an experienced clinical counsellor. Are you looking for psychological support/interventions for: depression, anxiety, panic attacks, anger, suicidal thoughts, or flashbacks (visual, auditory or feelings)? Are you having relationship difficulties, such as problems with a partner (or ex), family member, co-worker or friend? Are you struggling with parenting/behavioural difficulties? I have a particular interest in PTSD, complex and attachment trauma whether from childhood issues, hurtful, narcissistic or abusive people, illness, or accidents. I also have a strong focus & experience supporting neurodivergent clients.
(03) 7500 5700 View (03) 7500 5700
Schema Therapy
How does schema therapy work?
Schema therapy is based on the idea that maladaptive thought patterns formed in childhood—that other people can never be relied on, for example—can interfere with healthy functioning in adulthood. Accordingly, schema therapy works by directly targeting such unhealthy schemas, identifying their consequences, and replacing them with more adaptive ways of thinking. To this end, schema therapists aim to “reparent” the client by offering what they didn’t get in childhood—validation, for instance, or compassion—to reorient their worldview.

Is schema therapy evidence-based?
Schema therapy is still considered relatively new, and research on its efficacy is still in progress. However, some studies have concluded that it can be effective at treating certain mental health conditions, most notably personality disorders such as borderline personality disorder. Evidence for its efficacy in treating conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD is promising but less conclusive, and experts warn that much of the existing research is of low quality.

Is schema therapy a type of CBT?
Schema therapy is based on many principles of CBT, most notably the process of recognising and challenging maladaptive thought patterns. But because schema therapy also draws from other approaches,including psychoanalysis and Gestalt therapy, it is not considered a form of CBT. It also typically delves deeper into the client’s childhood than does CBT.

How does schema therapy work?
Schema therapy does not call for a set number of sessions and is instead open-ended, with the treatment timeline depending on the client’s primary concern(s), progress, and preferences. Treatment that lasts between six months and two years is common, though many clients will start to see progress much earlier than that.