Psychodynamic Psychologists and Therapists in Armadale, VIC

Photo of Jo Efron, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Jo Efron
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Armadale, VIC 3143
Many people reach a point where past experiences, trauma, or life transitions feel too heavy to manage alone. In my practice, I offer a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space to explore emotional dysregulation, grief, and patterns shaped by difficult family dynamics. Together we work toward clarity, self-understanding, and meaningful change, helping you navigate life with balance. I bring a depth-oriented approach informed by trauma work, Jungian psychology, and decades of clinical experience. You’ll find me down to earth, easy to talk to, and committed to providing a confidential space in a realistic 90-minute timeframe.
Many people reach a point where past experiences, trauma, or life transitions feel too heavy to manage alone. In my practice, I offer a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space to explore emotional dysregulation, grief, and patterns shaped by difficult family dynamics. Together we work toward clarity, self-understanding, and meaningful change, helping you navigate life with balance. I bring a depth-oriented approach informed by trauma work, Jungian psychology, and decades of clinical experience. You’ll find me down to earth, easy to talk to, and committed to providing a confidential space in a realistic 90-minute timeframe.
(03) 7003 2157 View (03) 7003 2157
Photo of Melissa Jane Freedman, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Melissa Jane Freedman
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Armadale, VIC 3143
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 Samantha Thomas, Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Samantha Thomas
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Armadale, VIC 3143
I am a Clinical Psychologist who provides a warm, supportive and non-judgemental space for individuals to openly explore their concerns. I am empathic and genuine, and value the therapeutic relationship, believing that feeling understood and connected is an important part of therapy. My approach emphasises understanding the individual as a whole, recognising that psychological difficulties are often multifaceted and influenced by a range of interacting factors and variables.
I am a Clinical Psychologist who provides a warm, supportive and non-judgemental space for individuals to openly explore their concerns. I am empathic and genuine, and value the therapeutic relationship, believing that feeling understood and connected is an important part of therapy. My approach emphasises understanding the individual as a whole, recognising that psychological difficulties are often multifaceted and influenced by a range of interacting factors and variables.
1300 635 952 View 1300 635 952
Photo of Claudia Hounslow - Contemporary Psychology, Psychologist, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Contemporary Psychology
Psychologist, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Serves Area
Contemporary Psychology is a modern space filled with a passionate group of psychologists that work to educate and inspire the public on mental health and wellbeing. We believe psychological health care should be accessible, supportive and effective. Our clinic offers education, assessment, counselling, short term coaching and long-term therapy for all those with curious minds. All staff are qualified and experienced and uphold strict ethical standards. We provide a modern professional space where everyone in the community is welcome.
Contemporary Psychology is a modern space filled with a passionate group of psychologists that work to educate and inspire the public on mental health and wellbeing. We believe psychological health care should be accessible, supportive and effective. Our clinic offers education, assessment, counselling, short term coaching and long-term therapy for all those with curious minds. All staff are qualified and experienced and uphold strict ethical standards. We provide a modern professional space where everyone in the community is welcome.
(03) 7003 2981 View (03) 7003 2981
Photo of Noah Noam Mankowitz - ADHD Melbourne, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
ADHD Melbourne
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
ADHD Melbourne is a practice dedicated to supporting adults, adolescents, and children navigating ADHD, ASD and related challenges. We understand that ADHD is not simply about attention or organisation, it affects emotions, relationships, work, study, self-esteem, and daily life in deeply personal ways. Our approach is strengths-based, neuroaffirming, and evidence-informed. We recognise that every ADHD brain is different, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. ADHD Melbourne conducted formal assessment for both ADHD and ASD for ages 6 and above.
ADHD Melbourne is a practice dedicated to supporting adults, adolescents, and children navigating ADHD, ASD and related challenges. We understand that ADHD is not simply about attention or organisation, it affects emotions, relationships, work, study, self-esteem, and daily life in deeply personal ways. Our approach is strengths-based, neuroaffirming, and evidence-informed. We recognise that every ADHD brain is different, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. ADHD Melbourne conducted formal assessment for both ADHD and ASD for ages 6 and above.
(03) 7003 2140 View (03) 7003 2140
Photo of Luvena Susanto, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Luvena Susanto
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
However, I also draw on a relational and psychodynamic approach to explore past experiences, unconscious processes, and interpersonal patterns, that may be causing emotional problems in your life.
Hi, I'm Luvena Susanto. I am a Clinical Psychologist with experience in private practice and public health. I love working with people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, anger, attachment trauma, and interpersonal conflict. Often, the challenges we face are shaped not only by present circumstances, but also by past experiences, unconscious processes, and the ways we have come to relate to ourselves and others. I believe that psychotherapy can give you the space to understand yourself better, to experiment with new ways of relating, and to choose to do things differently.
However, I also draw on a relational and psychodynamic approach to explore past experiences, unconscious processes, and interpersonal patterns, that may be causing emotional problems in your life.
Hi, I'm Luvena Susanto. I am a Clinical Psychologist with experience in private practice and public health. I love working with people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, anger, attachment trauma, and interpersonal conflict. Often, the challenges we face are shaped not only by present circumstances, but also by past experiences, unconscious processes, and the ways we have come to relate to ourselves and others. I believe that psychotherapy can give you the space to understand yourself better, to experiment with new ways of relating, and to choose to do things differently.
0488 580 975 View 0488 580 975
Photo of Ashley White, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Ashley White
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
It gets full-on at times. Life feels demanding, people seem harsh or confusing, the hurt feels overwhelming, and the answers seem so far away. Other times, you’re left wondering what the point of it all is, and whether there is more to life. I want to help however I can. Helping people to understand themselves, navigate relationships, perceive the world more clearly, and discover meaning in life brings me great joy. Even better is helping people find their own innate resources to cope and to heal.
It gets full-on at times. Life feels demanding, people seem harsh or confusing, the hurt feels overwhelming, and the answers seem so far away. Other times, you’re left wondering what the point of it all is, and whether there is more to life. I want to help however I can. Helping people to understand themselves, navigate relationships, perceive the world more clearly, and discover meaning in life brings me great joy. Even better is helping people find their own innate resources to cope and to heal.
(03) 9068 5872 View (03) 9068 5872
Photo of Loretta Bell, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Loretta Bell
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Helping couples with relationship issues (improve insight, self-reflection & acceptance). Working with relationship dynamics to improve conflict, recover from affairs, & manage change & life transitions & interpersonal emotional reactions, thoughts, & feelings. Helping clients understand repetitive, unwanted patterns helps people step out of the fray & gain a meta-perspective allowing choices. I don't work with serious interpersonal violence (physical or emotional) or prepare Court reports/reports, or act as an expert witness).
Helping couples with relationship issues (improve insight, self-reflection & acceptance). Working with relationship dynamics to improve conflict, recover from affairs, & manage change & life transitions & interpersonal emotional reactions, thoughts, & feelings. Helping clients understand repetitive, unwanted patterns helps people step out of the fray & gain a meta-perspective allowing choices. I don't work with serious interpersonal violence (physical or emotional) or prepare Court reports/reports, or act as an expert witness).
0409 800 385 View 0409 800 385
Photo of Vanessa Beresford-Wylie - Vanessa Wylie: Relationship Therapist, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Vanessa Wylie: Relationship Therapist
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Serves Area
If you're in a relationship that's wearing you down, or you're out of one wondering how you ended up here again, I can help. I work with men, women, and couples who are ready to do things differently. About half my clients come alone, they're tired of repeating the same patterns in how they connect, fight, or shut down. The other half are couples carrying years of conflict, distance, or pain. Affairs, power struggles, mismatched desire - these are hard, but they're not hopeless. I offer a clear, structured approach to help you understand what's really going on and actually create meaningful change.
If you're in a relationship that's wearing you down, or you're out of one wondering how you ended up here again, I can help. I work with men, women, and couples who are ready to do things differently. About half my clients come alone, they're tired of repeating the same patterns in how they connect, fight, or shut down. The other half are couples carrying years of conflict, distance, or pain. Affairs, power struggles, mismatched desire - these are hard, but they're not hopeless. I offer a clear, structured approach to help you understand what's really going on and actually create meaningful change.
(03) 9605 3530 View (03) 9605 3530
Photo of Kellie Dundon, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Kellie Dundon
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I draw on EMDR, ACT, CBT, and psychodynamic therapy, adapting these to suit your goals and needs.
Life can feel overwhelming and at times we need extra support. You might be dealing with anxiety, low mood, trauma, burnout, ADHD, or just feeling stuck. Maybe you're looking to understand yourself better, cope more effectively, or find a bit more peace. Therapy can offer a space to slow down, reflect, and make sense of what's going on. You don’t have to go through it alone. If you're looking for a safe, supportive space to explore things at your pace, I offer online psychology sessions for adults across Australia, and in-person sessions in Elwood VIC.
I draw on EMDR, ACT, CBT, and psychodynamic therapy, adapting these to suit your goals and needs.
Life can feel overwhelming and at times we need extra support. You might be dealing with anxiety, low mood, trauma, burnout, ADHD, or just feeling stuck. Maybe you're looking to understand yourself better, cope more effectively, or find a bit more peace. Therapy can offer a space to slow down, reflect, and make sense of what's going on. You don’t have to go through it alone. If you're looking for a safe, supportive space to explore things at your pace, I offer online psychology sessions for adults across Australia, and in-person sessions in Elwood VIC.
(03) 7003 2431 View (03) 7003 2431
Photo of Stephanie Fletcher - Stephanie Fletcher Psychology , Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Stephanie Fletcher Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I'm a General Psychologist who supports women navigating change, uncertainty, and major life transitions. Whether you’re going through a career change, relationship breakdown, parenting challenges, grief, illness, or an unexpected life event, I understand that these experiences can bring fear, overwhelm, self-doubt, and uncertainty about what comes next. I also support clients experiencing anxiety, stress, overthinking, depression, burnout, perfectionism and self-worth challenges. My approach is warm, compassionate, non-judgemental, and focused on helping clients create meaningful change and move forward.
I'm a General Psychologist who supports women navigating change, uncertainty, and major life transitions. Whether you’re going through a career change, relationship breakdown, parenting challenges, grief, illness, or an unexpected life event, I understand that these experiences can bring fear, overwhelm, self-doubt, and uncertainty about what comes next. I also support clients experiencing anxiety, stress, overthinking, depression, burnout, perfectionism and self-worth challenges. My approach is warm, compassionate, non-judgemental, and focused on helping clients create meaningful change and move forward.
(03) 7003 2931 View (03) 7003 2931
Photo of Lynne Woolfson, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Lynne Woolfson
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Hi there. Thank you for taking the time to read about me. Therapy helps. No matter who you are or what your issues are. There are things you can learn about yourself and ways that you can improve your functioning and relationships. Mental health matters. Relationships matter. Effective parenting matters. Self love matters. You are worth it. I love working with people across the life span. Young children, young adults, parents, adults and older adults. I have a special interest in narcissistic abuse, low self esteem, parenting and grief counselling.
Hi there. Thank you for taking the time to read about me. Therapy helps. No matter who you are or what your issues are. There are things you can learn about yourself and ways that you can improve your functioning and relationships. Mental health matters. Relationships matter. Effective parenting matters. Self love matters. You are worth it. I love working with people across the life span. Young children, young adults, parents, adults and older adults. I have a special interest in narcissistic abuse, low self esteem, parenting and grief counselling.
(03) 7003 2680 View (03) 7003 2680
Photo of Samantha Paranavitana, MA
Samantha Paranavitana
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Hi! I am Samantha, I am passionate about creating the space for people to discover their self belief,resillience, inner strength and improve their relationships. If you have been dealing with overwhelm,anxiety and depression for awhile you may have experienced a growing fear that change isnt possible for you. I understand. I am a Clinical Counsellor, Core Process psychotherapist,Craniosacral Therapist. NeuroAffective Touch graduate,I have a strong background in yoga and minfulness meditation. I use all of these skills and lived experience to guide you to rediscover the best version of you. Take the first step and reach out today!
Hi! I am Samantha, I am passionate about creating the space for people to discover their self belief,resillience, inner strength and improve their relationships. If you have been dealing with overwhelm,anxiety and depression for awhile you may have experienced a growing fear that change isnt possible for you. I understand. I am a Clinical Counsellor, Core Process psychotherapist,Craniosacral Therapist. NeuroAffective Touch graduate,I have a strong background in yoga and minfulness meditation. I use all of these skills and lived experience to guide you to rediscover the best version of you. Take the first step and reach out today!
(03) 7500 5865 View (03) 7500 5865
Photo of Dr Justin Olstein, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Dr Justin Olstein
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I draw upon psychodynamic and schema therapy approaches to help identify and repair problematic emotional and behavioural patterns.
I obtained a doctorate of psychology, and have experience working in public mental health settings and private practice. I have a special interest in working with LGBTQIA+ clients. I also work with anxiety, low mood, life transitions, substance use issues, family/relationship issues, grief/loss, self-esteem and trauma (including intergenerational trauma).
I draw upon psychodynamic and schema therapy approaches to help identify and repair problematic emotional and behavioural patterns.
I obtained a doctorate of psychology, and have experience working in public mental health settings and private practice. I have a special interest in working with LGBTQIA+ clients. I also work with anxiety, low mood, life transitions, substance use issues, family/relationship issues, grief/loss, self-esteem and trauma (including intergenerational trauma).
0411 742 636 View 0411 742 636
Photo of Anna Simos - Nous Counselling, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Nous Counselling
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Online Only
Life is a journey filled with highs and lows, and sometimes we all need a little support to navigate the challenges affecting our mental and physical well-being, At Nous Counselling, I am committed to providing services with genuine care and understanding, recognizing that every client presents unique concerns. I believe in a collaborative approach, working together to create a personalized plan that fosters holistic health and personal growth. Specializing in therapy for individuals coping with medical or health conditions and pain management, as well as offering general counselling for anyone seeking support.
Life is a journey filled with highs and lows, and sometimes we all need a little support to navigate the challenges affecting our mental and physical well-being, At Nous Counselling, I am committed to providing services with genuine care and understanding, recognizing that every client presents unique concerns. I believe in a collaborative approach, working together to create a personalized plan that fosters holistic health and personal growth. Specializing in therapy for individuals coping with medical or health conditions and pain management, as well as offering general counselling for anyone seeking support.
(03) 8771 4626 View (03) 8771 4626
Photo of Riana Losung, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Org. Psych.
Riana Losung
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Org. Psych.
Serves Area
I am passionate about helping clients deepen their understanding of themselves and how past experiences influence how they feel and cope with challenges. I have a warm, genuine approach which allows therapy to be a space where you can feel comfortable and supported while sharing difficult issues. My goal is to help you to gain new perspectives and build skills that aim to support your wellbeing and therapy needs. I work with adults dealing with many different issues and challenges. I also work with those in the field of emergency services, medical frontline, and the Defence Force.
I am passionate about helping clients deepen their understanding of themselves and how past experiences influence how they feel and cope with challenges. I have a warm, genuine approach which allows therapy to be a space where you can feel comfortable and supported while sharing difficult issues. My goal is to help you to gain new perspectives and build skills that aim to support your wellbeing and therapy needs. I work with adults dealing with many different issues and challenges. I also work with those in the field of emergency services, medical frontline, and the Defence Force.
(03) 7003 2443 View (03) 7003 2443
Photo of Astrid Southey, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Astrid Southey
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
Life isn’t always smooth sailing. We all face challenges, emotional upsets, and moments of uncertainty. Most of the time, we manage to adapt and heal on our own. But sometimes, the pain lingers, and we find ourselves stuck, unsure of how to move forward. In these moments, having the right support can make all the difference. As a therapist, I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings freely. I listen not only to your words but also to the emotions beneath them, helping uncover insights that can lead to healing and change.
Life isn’t always smooth sailing. We all face challenges, emotional upsets, and moments of uncertainty. Most of the time, we manage to adapt and heal on our own. But sometimes, the pain lingers, and we find ourselves stuck, unsure of how to move forward. In these moments, having the right support can make all the difference. As a therapist, I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings freely. I listen not only to your words but also to the emotions beneath them, helping uncover insights that can lead to healing and change.
(03) 4416 2322 View (03) 4416 2322
Photo of Michaela Klabanova, Psychologist, MPsych, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Michaela Klabanova
Psychologist, MPsych, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Serves Area
Hello, my name is Michaela, and I'm an open-minded psychologist and (group psychodynamic) psychotherapist whose approach is tailored to each client to empower their growth through Trauma-Informed therapy.
In addition to psychodynamic psychotherapy and psychological support, I complete a range of assessments (1) Cognitive (2) Personality (3) Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) (4) Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
Hello, my name is Michaela, and I'm an open-minded psychologist and (group psychodynamic) psychotherapist whose approach is tailored to each client to empower their growth through Trauma-Informed therapy.
In addition to psychodynamic psychotherapy and psychological support, I complete a range of assessments (1) Cognitive (2) Personality (3) Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) (4) Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
(03) 8797 2629 View (03) 8797 2629
Photo of Christine Weber, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Christine Weber
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
You may have come to this site because you feel stuck – because you are not moving in the direction you most want to. You may feel aspects of your life could be better, or you may be dealing with problems that feel overwhelming. These feelings may be related to your work, relationships or health, or they may be about your attitudes and feelings toward yourself. You may not know what is wrong or why you feel the way you do. Whatever the issue, I hope I am able to help.
You may have come to this site because you feel stuck – because you are not moving in the direction you most want to. You may feel aspects of your life could be better, or you may be dealing with problems that feel overwhelming. These feelings may be related to your work, relationships or health, or they may be about your attitudes and feelings toward yourself. You may not know what is wrong or why you feel the way you do. Whatever the issue, I hope I am able to help.
(03) 6120 6374 View (03) 6120 6374
Photo of Susan Lackner - MSRCC - Specialist Relationship Therapists, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
MSRCC - Specialist Relationship Therapists
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Serves Area
Melbourne Specialist Relationship Counselling Clinic (MSRCC) provides specialised couple, relationship and marriage counselling for couples and individuals seeking relationship support and more from their relationship. Do you find yourself and your significant other at a crossroads, where you often find yourself experiencing similar problems and difficulties and struggling to navigate through your differences? Do you and your partner find yourselves stuck in negative patterns, struggling to resolve the same conflicts again and again? Are issues in your sexual relationship or parenting style causing friction?
Melbourne Specialist Relationship Counselling Clinic (MSRCC) provides specialised couple, relationship and marriage counselling for couples and individuals seeking relationship support and more from their relationship. Do you find yourself and your significant other at a crossroads, where you often find yourself experiencing similar problems and difficulties and struggling to navigate through your differences? Do you and your partner find yourselves stuck in negative patterns, struggling to resolve the same conflicts again and again? Are issues in your sexual relationship or parenting style causing friction?
0411 615 313 View 0411 615 313

See more therapy options for Armadale

Psychodynamic Therapists
Is psychodynamic therapy evidence-based?
Studies have found psychodynamic therapy to be effective in treating conditions like social anxiety, eating disorders, chronic pain, some personality disorders, and depression; indeed, some studies have found it to be just as effective as CBT or medication. What’s more, several studies have found that the benefits of psychodynamic therapy tend to endure—even grow—long after treatment has ended.

How long does psychodynamic therapy last?
Unlike CBT and other more structured forms of therapy, psychodynamic therapy tends to be open-ended and may not be limited to a set number of sessions. It is common for clients to be in therapy for a year or longer and to see their therapist one to three times a week, though the exact schedule and timeline may vary depending on a client’s challenges and progress. However, brief psychodynamic therapy is available, which tends to be more goal-oriented and typically unfolds over 16 to 30 sessions.

Does psychodynamic therapy work?
Research finds that psychodynamic therapy can help someone manage or reduce symptoms of diagnosable mental health conditions like depression or anxiety. The modality may also offer a range of benefits that are harder to measure but just as valuable—such as increased self-worth or healthier relationships. While no therapy type will work for everyone, research and anecdotal evidence suggest that psychodynamic therapy can be highly effective.

What are the limitations of psychodynamic therapy?
Some meta-analyses have concluded that there is little evidence to suggest that psychodynamic therapy can effectively treat certain mental health conditions such as PTSD, OCD, or psychosis, though it is sometimes used to do so. More broadly, the open-ended, free-association structure of psychodynamic therapy may be frustrating for clients who prefer a more structured, time-limited, or goal-oriented approach.