Counselling in Ararat, VIC

Hi my name is Kahlia Peiris I am an ACA level 1 member and I am a qualified counselor who is working towards higher studies currently. I am a mum to a beautiful 1 year old daughter and I understand the demands of being a parent and also needing to work. I am very passionate about providing pre and postpartum counselling for both Mum's and Dad's. I also do generalized counselling and stress management. And have worked with people dealing with depression, anxiety and a number of mental health challenges. Another area of counselling I do is around work place burnout and finding the work home balance we all need.
Hi my name is Kahlia Peiris I am an ACA level 1 member and I am a qualified counselor who is working towards higher studies currently. I am a mum to a beautiful 1 year old daughter and I understand the demands of being a parent and also needing to work. I am very passionate about providing pre and postpartum counselling for both Mum's and Dad's. I also do generalized counselling and stress management. And have worked with people dealing with depression, anxiety and a number of mental health challenges. Another area of counselling I do is around work place burnout and finding the work home balance we all need.

I am a practising counsellor with a focus on ADHD/ASD, positive behavioural therapy, anxiety and depression. I operate a private, fully-accessible counselling and therapy space. Experienced in providing grief and loss counselling and trained to provide psychological First Aid for trauma. Fully registered NDIS provider for Counselling and Behavioural Support for all NDIS participants (aged 8 years +). Private and EAP clients also accepted.
I am a practising counsellor with a focus on ADHD/ASD, positive behavioural therapy, anxiety and depression. I operate a private, fully-accessible counselling and therapy space. Experienced in providing grief and loss counselling and trained to provide psychological First Aid for trauma. Fully registered NDIS provider for Counselling and Behavioural Support for all NDIS participants (aged 8 years +). Private and EAP clients also accepted.

Book a FREE 10 minute discovery call. Consulting Rooms in Ballarat and Stawell. Focusing on the needs of individuals in smaller communities and country towns, where there is generally fewer resources available for those who need support. Using a person-centered approach, I work with client on relationships, conflict resolution, trauma, behaviour, adolescents, mental health disorders, mindfulness and Cultural Counselling. I am very much community-minded. Welcome NDIS self-managed clients. Every situation is different, while I have a base rate, please contact me to ask how I can assist you if financial difficulty is an issue.
Book a FREE 10 minute discovery call. Consulting Rooms in Ballarat and Stawell. Focusing on the needs of individuals in smaller communities and country towns, where there is generally fewer resources available for those who need support. Using a person-centered approach, I work with client on relationships, conflict resolution, trauma, behaviour, adolescents, mental health disorders, mindfulness and Cultural Counselling. I am very much community-minded. Welcome NDIS self-managed clients. Every situation is different, while I have a base rate, please contact me to ask how I can assist you if financial difficulty is an issue.

Dear wonderful human,
I aim to utilise an approach that creates a safe, nurturing, and playful environment where you can feel understood and valued.
In our sessions, I blend various therapeutic techniques to tailor our work to your unique needs.
A trauma-informed approach, which I am dedicated to, means recognizing the widespread impact of trauma and creating a safe space where you feel empowered and in control. This approach emphasizes safety, trustworthiness, choice, collaboration, and empowerment. I aim to provide you with the tools and support you need to navigate your healing journey with resilience and strength.
Dear wonderful human,
I aim to utilise an approach that creates a safe, nurturing, and playful environment where you can feel understood and valued.
In our sessions, I blend various therapeutic techniques to tailor our work to your unique needs.
A trauma-informed approach, which I am dedicated to, means recognizing the widespread impact of trauma and creating a safe space where you feel empowered and in control. This approach emphasizes safety, trustworthiness, choice, collaboration, and empowerment. I aim to provide you with the tools and support you need to navigate your healing journey with resilience and strength.

Hi, I'm Stacey and I am passionate about supporting people to work through challenges, whether these are current or historical. You may be experiencing difficulties and want to manage these in a different way, or maybe you would like to try and understand yourself better in order to make change. You may just want someone to see and hear you - I believe in creating a safe space for people. Therapy can provide the opportunity for exploration and change. I particularly enjoy working with women who are experiencing life transitions, peri/menopause and/or questioning their neurotype.
Hi, I'm Stacey and I am passionate about supporting people to work through challenges, whether these are current or historical. You may be experiencing difficulties and want to manage these in a different way, or maybe you would like to try and understand yourself better in order to make change. You may just want someone to see and hear you - I believe in creating a safe space for people. Therapy can provide the opportunity for exploration and change. I particularly enjoy working with women who are experiencing life transitions, peri/menopause and/or questioning their neurotype.

Are you struggling to connect with yourself or others? Maybe you’re feeling disconnected from your emotions or body, or carrying the weight of past trauma? At Bloom Well-being, we specialise in helping those who’ve faced difficult childhoods, abusive relationships, or life-altering experiences. Our compassionate team is dedicated to creating a space where you feel seen, heard, and valued. We believe you are the expert of your own story, and we’re here to support you on your healing journey with warmth, respect, and professional care.
Are you struggling to connect with yourself or others? Maybe you’re feeling disconnected from your emotions or body, or carrying the weight of past trauma? At Bloom Well-being, we specialise in helping those who’ve faced difficult childhoods, abusive relationships, or life-altering experiences. Our compassionate team is dedicated to creating a space where you feel seen, heard, and valued. We believe you are the expert of your own story, and we’re here to support you on your healing journey with warmth, respect, and professional care.

I am a registered Psychologist and a Gestalt psychotherapist, specialising in a holistic and integrative approach to mental health. With over 25 years of experience in the fields of psychology, counselling, psychotherapy, and supervision, I am dedicated to providing a supportive and insightful therapeutic journey for each of my clients. My commitment is to provide a compassionate and empowering environment where clients can gain clarity, develop self-awareness, and find meaningful ways to address their concerns.
I am a registered Psychologist and a Gestalt psychotherapist, specialising in a holistic and integrative approach to mental health. With over 25 years of experience in the fields of psychology, counselling, psychotherapy, and supervision, I am dedicated to providing a supportive and insightful therapeutic journey for each of my clients. My commitment is to provide a compassionate and empowering environment where clients can gain clarity, develop self-awareness, and find meaningful ways to address their concerns.

I am passionate about journeying with people at all ages and stages of their lives, to increase their capacity and create change in themselves and to find joy and growth in their lives. I work from a trauma informed viewpoint, that incorporates family, to ensure person-centred, relationship-focussed therapy. I have also undergone additional training in Havening. I am comfortable working with personal spirituality and understand the significance and role of spirituality within lives.
I am passionate about journeying with people at all ages and stages of their lives, to increase their capacity and create change in themselves and to find joy and growth in their lives. I work from a trauma informed viewpoint, that incorporates family, to ensure person-centred, relationship-focussed therapy. I have also undergone additional training in Havening. I am comfortable working with personal spirituality and understand the significance and role of spirituality within lives.
More Therapists Nearby

Are you in midlife and thinking "is this really all there is?" It's more common than you think and especially around 40 or 50+. We hit the big milestones of supposedly having life sorted but all you feel is stuck or at least lacking in joy or direction and slowly starting to panic that life is slipping away. Whatever the thoughts are if they persist unaddressed, they just fester inside. We all know that feeling of stuffing thoughts and feelings down because they are too uncomfortable. Maybe soothing them with food, alcohol or doomscrolling. Life can get a lot better by talking and sharing what's going on for you deep down.
Are you in midlife and thinking "is this really all there is?" It's more common than you think and especially around 40 or 50+. We hit the big milestones of supposedly having life sorted but all you feel is stuck or at least lacking in joy or direction and slowly starting to panic that life is slipping away. Whatever the thoughts are if they persist unaddressed, they just fester inside. We all know that feeling of stuffing thoughts and feelings down because they are too uncomfortable. Maybe soothing them with food, alcohol or doomscrolling. Life can get a lot better by talking and sharing what's going on for you deep down.

Freya's Farm: Animal Assisted Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Hi, I'm Freya. I've been counselling for over 25 years, and 2 years ago started incorporating my animals (horses, dogs, cats) into my therapeutic practice. I work with all ages, and the people I work with are as unique as the issues they want to address. My clients are individuals, couples, and children. I have lived experience of neurodiversity (ASD, ADHD, Dyslexia, HSP) and consequently work with a lot of people who are neurodiverse themselves. My work focusses on understanding why we are the way we are, combined with techniques that foster change and growth, with the end goal of increased well being and resilience.
Hi, I'm Freya. I've been counselling for over 25 years, and 2 years ago started incorporating my animals (horses, dogs, cats) into my therapeutic practice. I work with all ages, and the people I work with are as unique as the issues they want to address. My clients are individuals, couples, and children. I have lived experience of neurodiversity (ASD, ADHD, Dyslexia, HSP) and consequently work with a lot of people who are neurodiverse themselves. My work focusses on understanding why we are the way we are, combined with techniques that foster change and growth, with the end goal of increased well being and resilience.

Are you feeling that talk therapies aren’t quite getting to the heart of the problem? Are you or your kids experiencing big emotions that appear out of nowhere and can’t quite be explained by words? Do your kids need help, but encouraging them to attend sessions has turned into a weekly carpark battle? Do you want a therapist who can work creatively with your family rather than answering questions like a textbook? Do you wish therapy could just simply feel easier?
Are you feeling that talk therapies aren’t quite getting to the heart of the problem? Are you or your kids experiencing big emotions that appear out of nowhere and can’t quite be explained by words? Do your kids need help, but encouraging them to attend sessions has turned into a weekly carpark battle? Do you want a therapist who can work creatively with your family rather than answering questions like a textbook? Do you wish therapy could just simply feel easier?

Hello and Welcome! My therapeutic style is guided by the belief that each individual possesses an innate capacity for self-healing. I view therapy as a transformative journey, uncovering pathways towards healing and personal growth. My practice delivers evidence-based treatments, ensuring you receive the highest standard of care on your healing path. I embrace an integrative philosophy, prioritising person-centred, trauma-informed, and holistic approaches that honour the complexities and interconnectedness of mind, body, spiritual and relational dimensions of self.
Hello and Welcome! My therapeutic style is guided by the belief that each individual possesses an innate capacity for self-healing. I view therapy as a transformative journey, uncovering pathways towards healing and personal growth. My practice delivers evidence-based treatments, ensuring you receive the highest standard of care on your healing path. I embrace an integrative philosophy, prioritising person-centred, trauma-informed, and holistic approaches that honour the complexities and interconnectedness of mind, body, spiritual and relational dimensions of self.

Grief is deeply personal, and no two journeys are the same. At Good Grief Therapy, I provide a compassionate, trauma-informed space for individuals of all ages to process loss and life changes. Together, we’ll explore ways to cope, build resilience, and find meaning in your experiences. My approach is empathetic, non-judgmental, and tailored to your unique needs. You don’t have to navigate this journey alone—I’m here to walk alongside you. Let’s begin your healing journey together.
Grief is deeply personal, and no two journeys are the same. At Good Grief Therapy, I provide a compassionate, trauma-informed space for individuals of all ages to process loss and life changes. Together, we’ll explore ways to cope, build resilience, and find meaning in your experiences. My approach is empathetic, non-judgmental, and tailored to your unique needs. You don’t have to navigate this journey alone—I’m here to walk alongside you. Let’s begin your healing journey together.

I am a member of the Australian Counselling Association (MACA Level 4) with a background in psychological therapies, and have more than 16 years of counselling experience, including working with people in nature and equine assisted therapy, supporting people to re-regulate their nervous systems to manage stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, grief and loss, bipolar disorder, problem gambling and other addictions. I believe in treating everyone with empathy and respect, and tailor my approach to meet your needs.
I am a member of the Australian Counselling Association (MACA Level 4) with a background in psychological therapies, and have more than 16 years of counselling experience, including working with people in nature and equine assisted therapy, supporting people to re-regulate their nervous systems to manage stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, grief and loss, bipolar disorder, problem gambling and other addictions. I believe in treating everyone with empathy and respect, and tailor my approach to meet your needs.
Online Therapists

Tracey is the founder of Kitsune Coaching Solutions; her vision is to help all people find their balance for a better quality of life. Her ideal client may be struggling with authenticity, confidence, and life challenges: They may be exploring their Identity, learning to set boundaries, wanting to learn techniques to manage stress, building self-esteem and learning communication techniques. Tracey specialises in neurodiverse people who may not fit the sociological norms and need an open-hearted, accepting facilitator to help them achieve their personal goals.
Tracey is the founder of Kitsune Coaching Solutions; her vision is to help all people find their balance for a better quality of life. Her ideal client may be struggling with authenticity, confidence, and life challenges: They may be exploring their Identity, learning to set boundaries, wanting to learn techniques to manage stress, building self-esteem and learning communication techniques. Tracey specialises in neurodiverse people who may not fit the sociological norms and need an open-hearted, accepting facilitator to help them achieve their personal goals.

At Care For Your Mind we care about connection and understand the driver of lasting change is determined by the strength of the therapeutic relationship. Care For Your Mind is a private practice located in Bendigo providing counselling and psychological assessments to adults, young people, children and their families. We work with a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, anger management, behavioural concerns, grief & loss, sexualised behaviours and trauma presentations.
At Care For Your Mind we care about connection and understand the driver of lasting change is determined by the strength of the therapeutic relationship. Care For Your Mind is a private practice located in Bendigo providing counselling and psychological assessments to adults, young people, children and their families. We work with a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, anger management, behavioural concerns, grief & loss, sexualised behaviours and trauma presentations.

Are you struggling with anxiety, managing relationships, workplace issues, parenting, menopause, caring for elderly parents? My aim through our sessions together is to guide you through these challenges, to help you develop skills to lift the sense of overwhelm. We can build your capacity to face challenges calmly and confidently avoiding that huge negative impact on your wellbeing that can occur during hard times. We can explore how you want to feel and then work out how we can get you there. I want you to leave our sessions with a greater sense of self worth and inner strength and with energy to face the world!
Are you struggling with anxiety, managing relationships, workplace issues, parenting, menopause, caring for elderly parents? My aim through our sessions together is to guide you through these challenges, to help you develop skills to lift the sense of overwhelm. We can build your capacity to face challenges calmly and confidently avoiding that huge negative impact on your wellbeing that can occur during hard times. We can explore how you want to feel and then work out how we can get you there. I want you to leave our sessions with a greater sense of self worth and inner strength and with energy to face the world!

Emily is passionate about improving the mental health of all Australians, no matter their age or stage of life. Through her collaborative approach, Emily aims to create a safe therapeutic space that nurtures growth and confidence. Compassionate, warm, empathetic and non-judgemental, Emily uses an evidence-based approach to tailor her therapy to each client and their unique needs.
Emily is passionate about improving the mental health of all Australians, no matter their age or stage of life. Through her collaborative approach, Emily aims to create a safe therapeutic space that nurtures growth and confidence. Compassionate, warm, empathetic and non-judgemental, Emily uses an evidence-based approach to tailor her therapy to each client and their unique needs.

At Embodied Harmony, I specialise in helping adults navigate life's challenges - whether it's anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, low self-worth, relationship struggles, or significant transitions. If you're here, you might be feeling stuck, anxious, or just unsure about your next steps. Together, we'll create a safe, supportive space where your unique needs are heard and respected. We walk alongside you as you gain clarity and develop the tools to create meaningful change on your terms. Take the first step toward the life your truly want - reach out today and book your no-cost 15-min consultation to see how we can work together
At Embodied Harmony, I specialise in helping adults navigate life's challenges - whether it's anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, low self-worth, relationship struggles, or significant transitions. If you're here, you might be feeling stuck, anxious, or just unsure about your next steps. Together, we'll create a safe, supportive space where your unique needs are heard and respected. We walk alongside you as you gain clarity and develop the tools to create meaningful change on your terms. Take the first step toward the life your truly want - reach out today and book your no-cost 15-min consultation to see how we can work together

I have been practicing for 20 years in mental health. I find that people come to counselling when they are overwhelmed with the situation they find themselves in and need that perspective to be able to step back and look at what is happening in their lives which has brought them to this point. Clients want to be listened to and really heard. Clients need time to do their own processing of what comes out of their narrative. I practice from a social model of health perspective, where the in client, although an individual, is part of a social system that must be considered in their journey to good mental health.
I have been practicing for 20 years in mental health. I find that people come to counselling when they are overwhelmed with the situation they find themselves in and need that perspective to be able to step back and look at what is happening in their lives which has brought them to this point. Clients want to be listened to and really heard. Clients need time to do their own processing of what comes out of their narrative. I practice from a social model of health perspective, where the in client, although an individual, is part of a social system that must be considered in their journey to good mental health.
See more therapy options for Ararat
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Ararat, VIC
< 10
Counsellors in Ararat, VIC who prioritize treating:
75% | Depression |
75% | Anxiety |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
63% | Relationship Issues |
63% | Coping Skills |
63% | Women's Issues |
63% | Stress |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
67% | Bupa |
67% | Medicare Rebates |
67% | Teachers Health |
How Counsellors in Ararat, VIC see their clients
88% | In Person and Online | |
12% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Ararat?
Search for nearby psychologists or counsellors by inputting your city, suburb, postcode, or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or postcode into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
Counsellors and Psychotherapists listed in the directory are members of the main professional associations, mainly the Australian Counselling Association and the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia. Psychologists must be registered in the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). Most Social Workers listed in the directory are members of the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW).
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given that professional memberships are not a statutory requirement for social workers, psychotherapists and counsellors in Australia, certain qualified professionals or organisations may choose not to maintain such memberships despite possessing the necessary qualifications. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given that professional memberships are not a statutory requirement for social workers, psychotherapists and counsellors in Australia, certain qualified professionals or organisations may choose not to maintain such memberships despite possessing the necessary qualifications. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counsellor?
Counsellors, psychotherapists and psychologists can all provide counselling or talking therapy and have credentials and experience that enable them to do so in Australia.
Psychologists have earned a 4 year undergraduate degree in psychology and have completed a postgraduate internship or postgraduate degree. Psychotherapists generally have an undergraduate degree in a health related field in addition to 3-4 years of specialist training in psychotherapy and a period of personal psychotherapy. In order to belong to a professional organisation such as the ACA or PACFA, counsellors and psychotherapists are required to have completed a certain level of AQF qualifications and/ or an approved training course as well as clinical and supervision hours. Social Workers registered with the AASW are required to have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Social Work from an accredited institution.
Psychologists have earned a 4 year undergraduate degree in psychology and have completed a postgraduate internship or postgraduate degree. Psychotherapists generally have an undergraduate degree in a health related field in addition to 3-4 years of specialist training in psychotherapy and a period of personal psychotherapy. In order to belong to a professional organisation such as the ACA or PACFA, counsellors and psychotherapists are required to have completed a certain level of AQF qualifications and/ or an approved training course as well as clinical and supervision hours. Social Workers registered with the AASW are required to have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Social Work from an accredited institution.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, the cost of a therapy session in Australia could be between $100 and $250. If you have private insurance, your plan may cover some if not all of your sessions. You should contact your insurance provider to determine if they provide coverage for therapy sessions and to determine what, if any, requirements they might have in order for your sessions to be covered, such as a referral from your GP or medical specialist.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. The Better Access Scheme is a government program offering Medicare rebates for mental health care. To access the program you will need to be assessed and diagnosed by your GP and get a Mental Health Plan. This will allow you to receive up to 10 individual sessions and 10 group sessions a year with practitioners who accept bulk billing, with no out of pocket costs for you.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. The Better Access Scheme is a government program offering Medicare rebates for mental health care. To access the program you will need to be assessed and diagnosed by your GP and get a Mental Health Plan. This will allow you to receive up to 10 individual sessions and 10 group sessions a year with practitioners who accept bulk billing, with no out of pocket costs for you.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your postcode.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Therapists who are part of a professional organisation such as the ACA, PACFA, or the APS are bound by an ethical framework that requires them to uphold a confidentiality agreement. Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship and only under specific circumstances, such as when there is the potential or known harm to the client or others or when a minor is in danger, will a therapist be obligated to break the agreement. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed during the initial consultation.