Sexual Abuse Psychologists and Therapists in Ascot Vale, VIC

Tigist Kebede
Verified Verified
Ascot Vale, VIC 3032
She has a history with working with racial trauma, sexual assault, family violence
Tigist (She/Her) is an Ethiopian woman who was born in Sudan and came to Australia as a child under the humanitarian program. She trained as a Counselor and has experience working in the public and private sector, including advisory roles in various levels of government. Tigist has strong grassroots connections with diverse communities, with expertise in workforce development and consulting. In 2018 “Pola Psychology,” was founded by Nasalifya Namwinga, Tigist Kebede joined in 2019 and together they established Pola Practice Pty Ltd in 2021.
She has a history with working with racial trauma, sexual assault, family violence
Tigist (She/Her) is an Ethiopian woman who was born in Sudan and came to Australia as a child under the humanitarian program. She trained as a Counselor and has experience working in the public and private sector, including advisory roles in various levels of government. Tigist has strong grassroots connections with diverse communities, with expertise in workforce development and consulting. In 2018 “Pola Psychology,” was founded by Nasalifya Namwinga, Tigist Kebede joined in 2019 and together they established Pola Practice Pty Ltd in 2021.
(03) 9001 5665 View (03) 9001 5665
Toya Ricci
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Ascot Vale, VIC 3032
Whether you’re seeking insight, healing, or simply a space to be fully seen, I offer expansive, compassionate, and individually tailored support that welcomes the full range of human experience. This may include working through identity and belonging, cultural dynamics, personal growth, communication and boundaries, emotional resilience, grief and trauma, chronic illness, creativity and career direction, or exploring sexual desire, pleasure, and intimacy.
Whether you’re seeking insight, healing, or simply a space to be fully seen, I offer expansive, compassionate, and individually tailored support that welcomes the full range of human experience. This may include working through identity and belonging, cultural dynamics, personal growth, communication and boundaries, emotional resilience, grief and trauma, chronic illness, creativity and career direction, or exploring sexual desire, pleasure, and intimacy.
(03) 8595 5264 View (03) 8595 5264
Kelly Breen
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Online Only
I have extensive experience working with those impacted by trauma (c/PTSD), addiction, self-harm, and eating disorders. I also help people navigate the challenges associated with relationship issues, life transitions, depression, and anxiety. My integrative therapy style incorporates evidence-based modalities like EMDR, Schema, IFS, psychodynamic approaches, Mindfulness, and ACT. As a trained yoga teacher, I integrate these practices and somatic work. I am trained to provide psychedelic integration & preparation support and the Safe and Sound protocol for nervous system regulation.
I have extensive experience working with those impacted by trauma (c/PTSD), addiction, self-harm, and eating disorders. I also help people navigate the challenges associated with relationship issues, life transitions, depression, and anxiety. My integrative therapy style incorporates evidence-based modalities like EMDR, Schema, IFS, psychodynamic approaches, Mindfulness, and ACT. As a trained yoga teacher, I integrate these practices and somatic work. I am trained to provide psychedelic integration & preparation support and the Safe and Sound protocol for nervous system regulation.
(03) 9007 2718 View (03) 9007 2718
Portia Kambasha
Verified Verified
Ascot Vale, VIC 3032
I have more than 20 years experience with complex mental health issues across the age spectrum. I offer a kind, empathetic service to families and individuals using my skills as a family therapist and mental health clinician. I welcome individuals and families who represent marginalised communities, (neurodiverse, LGBTQIA, culturally diverse, and anyone who has ever been “othered”) and provide a service that is inclusive and affirming whilst utilising an anti racist and decolonized lens.
I have more than 20 years experience with complex mental health issues across the age spectrum. I offer a kind, empathetic service to families and individuals using my skills as a family therapist and mental health clinician. I welcome individuals and families who represent marginalised communities, (neurodiverse, LGBTQIA, culturally diverse, and anyone who has ever been “othered”) and provide a service that is inclusive and affirming whilst utilising an anti racist and decolonized lens.
(03) 4327 9085 View (03) 4327 9085
Kayla Cutajar
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Kayla is a Registered Psychologist and Director of Open Minds Studios. She has experience in working with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, and parenting issues. Kayla enjoys helping people understand themselves and their environments better and to feel more empowered in their lives. She finds joy in seeing clients feel more comfortable in themselves and their relationships. Clients who work with Kayla receive an integrated approach to therapeutic care tailored to their needs and interests.
Kayla is a Registered Psychologist and Director of Open Minds Studios. She has experience in working with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, and parenting issues. Kayla enjoys helping people understand themselves and their environments better and to feel more empowered in their lives. She finds joy in seeing clients feel more comfortable in themselves and their relationships. Clients who work with Kayla receive an integrated approach to therapeutic care tailored to their needs and interests.
(03) 8104 9965 View (03) 8104 9965
Anneliese Mauro
Counsellor
Online Only
Anneliese has extensive experience supporting neurodivergence, stolen generations, behavioural concerns, trauma/sexual assault and mental health conditions.
Anneliese supports children, adolescents and adults aged 6 to 65+ experiencing challenges such as trauma/PTSD, grief, life transitions, relationship difficulties, parenting challenges, anger, self esteem/ Indentity challenges and mental health concerns. She works collaboratively with each client to understand their unique experiences, strengths and goals. Together, they develop practical ways of thinking and responding that support positive change, confidence and independence. Anneliese offers a warm, safe and non-judgemental space where empathy, curiosity and authenticity guides her practice.
Anneliese has extensive experience supporting neurodivergence, stolen generations, behavioural concerns, trauma/sexual assault and mental health conditions.
Anneliese supports children, adolescents and adults aged 6 to 65+ experiencing challenges such as trauma/PTSD, grief, life transitions, relationship difficulties, parenting challenges, anger, self esteem/ Indentity challenges and mental health concerns. She works collaboratively with each client to understand their unique experiences, strengths and goals. Together, they develop practical ways of thinking and responding that support positive change, confidence and independence. Anneliese offers a warm, safe and non-judgemental space where empathy, curiosity and authenticity guides her practice.
(03) 8104 9401 View (03) 8104 9401
Jake Iaria
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Jake is a registered psychologist known for his warm, grounded approach. Founder of Wayfind Psychology and Consulting, he supports children, adolescents, and adults to gain insight into any challenges they're experiencing, and develop practical strategies to navigate them. He provides both in-person and Telehealth support to individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, behavioural and social-emotional difficulties, and neurodivergent presentations such as ADHD and autism. Additionally, Jake has delivered school-based support, targeted group programs, and professional development.
Jake is a registered psychologist known for his warm, grounded approach. Founder of Wayfind Psychology and Consulting, he supports children, adolescents, and adults to gain insight into any challenges they're experiencing, and develop practical strategies to navigate them. He provides both in-person and Telehealth support to individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, behavioural and social-emotional difficulties, and neurodivergent presentations such as ADHD and autism. Additionally, Jake has delivered school-based support, targeted group programs, and professional development.
0473 172 472 View 0473 172 472
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

More Therapists Nearby

Esen Uygun
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Fitzroy North, VIC 3068
I am passionate about supporting and helping individuals, families who feel trapped in their trauma symptoms. I am Somatic Experiencing, Accredited EMDR and Havening Practitioner. I support people with Complex PTSD issues. There is a common belief that the trauma is the result of individual's thinking pattern, which is misleading. Any traumatic experiences registered somatically, therefore the trauma work will be somatically oriented, which aims to clear the symptoms from the whole system.
I am passionate about supporting and helping individuals, families who feel trapped in their trauma symptoms. I am Somatic Experiencing, Accredited EMDR and Havening Practitioner. I support people with Complex PTSD issues. There is a common belief that the trauma is the result of individual's thinking pattern, which is misleading. Any traumatic experiences registered somatically, therefore the trauma work will be somatically oriented, which aims to clear the symptoms from the whole system.
(03) 9071 0595 View (03) 9071 0595
Sarah Jones
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Preston, VIC 3072
Sarah Jones is an effective therapist with 25 years’ experience counselling adults, couples, and older adolescents (15 years and older). She is a Clinical Member of the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia, and a senior clinician who has contributed to the field through providing professional development and supervision of other counsellors. Sarah works with individuals and couples addressing their mental health, communication and fulfilment in life.
Sarah Jones is an effective therapist with 25 years’ experience counselling adults, couples, and older adolescents (15 years and older). She is a Clinical Member of the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia, and a senior clinician who has contributed to the field through providing professional development and supervision of other counsellors. Sarah works with individuals and couples addressing their mental health, communication and fulfilment in life.
(03) 8338 1006 View (03) 8338 1006
Barbara Drossos
Social Worker, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Fitzroy, VIC 3065
I support people who have experienced sexual assault and violence, as well as those who struggle with their mental health, childhood trauma, attachment, relationships, parenting, heartbreak and shame.
Life can be hard to navigate, especially when we face transitions, stressors and/or crises. Counselling can make a difference. I provide non-judgmental, warm and thoughtful support to work towards change through increasing self-awareness, developing interpersonal and self-care skills, as well as processing trauma that may still be impacting your life.
I support people who have experienced sexual assault and violence, as well as those who struggle with their mental health, childhood trauma, attachment, relationships, parenting, heartbreak and shame.
Life can be hard to navigate, especially when we face transitions, stressors and/or crises. Counselling can make a difference. I provide non-judgmental, warm and thoughtful support to work towards change through increasing self-awareness, developing interpersonal and self-care skills, as well as processing trauma that may still be impacting your life.
(03) 9344 1556 View (03) 9344 1556
Lucy McCarthy
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Bentleigh East, VIC 3165
My particular areas of specialisation: Complex Trauma, Childhood Sexual Abuse and Problem Gambling.
I engage with my clients in a respectful and professional manner, underpinned by warmth and openness. I endeavour to bring an authenticity that allows you to feel comfortable and confident enough to explore your concerns, then co create a plan utilising treatments such as Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Trauma integration and Attachment Based Interventions.
My particular areas of specialisation: Complex Trauma, Childhood Sexual Abuse and Problem Gambling.
I engage with my clients in a respectful and professional manner, underpinned by warmth and openness. I endeavour to bring an authenticity that allows you to feel comfortable and confident enough to explore your concerns, then co create a plan utilising treatments such as Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Trauma integration and Attachment Based Interventions.
(03) 7500 5855 View (03) 7500 5855
Damien Gafforini
Social Worker, AMHSW
Doreen, VIC 3754
I have 20 years of experience, in particular supporting those whom have experienced some form of traumatic event (especially sexual abuse).
I have 20 years of counselling experience. With degree’s in Psychology, Social Work and Child Psychotherapy. I provide specialised supports for clients who have complex trauma through the use of such tools as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), Neurofeedback, QEEG and trauma therapy. I also provide Couples Counselling.
I have 20 years of experience, in particular supporting those whom have experienced some form of traumatic event (especially sexual abuse).
I have 20 years of counselling experience. With degree’s in Psychology, Social Work and Child Psychotherapy. I provide specialised supports for clients who have complex trauma through the use of such tools as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), Neurofeedback, QEEG and trauma therapy. I also provide Couples Counselling.
(03) 9068 6002 View (03) 9068 6002
Paula Lay
Social Worker, MA, AASW
Thornbury, VIC 3071
I am a social worker, sensorimotor psychotherapist, and yoga teacher specialising in working with trauma, anxiety, and depression. My therapeutic approach includes working at the intersection of body-centred practices including sensorimotor psychotherapy, yoga, mindfulness and somatics, as well as bringing a social justice, intersectional lens.Through centring the wisdom of the body and felt-experience and supported by practices that nourish and expand nervous system self-regulation capacity, my aim is to create a kind and safe space within the therapeutic relationship to make space for healing, growth and transformation.
I am a social worker, sensorimotor psychotherapist, and yoga teacher specialising in working with trauma, anxiety, and depression. My therapeutic approach includes working at the intersection of body-centred practices including sensorimotor psychotherapy, yoga, mindfulness and somatics, as well as bringing a social justice, intersectional lens.Through centring the wisdom of the body and felt-experience and supported by practices that nourish and expand nervous system self-regulation capacity, my aim is to create a kind and safe space within the therapeutic relationship to make space for healing, growth and transformation.
0412 952 786 View 0412 952 786
Transformative Place Counselling Service
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Online Only
Welcome, I'm Ketura, counsellor at Transformative Place Counselling Service. I specialise in working with individuals diagnosed with borderline personality disorder work on emotional regulation and trauma, but you do not have to have BPD to benefit from the services I offer. I encourage you to explore emotions, how you hold these and memories within your body, gaining awareness of your nervous system's language. To learn how to unlock and be with discomfort and unfamiliar thoughts, emotions, memories and to make new experiences, to tolerate and manage distress and integrate past trauma/experiences into the present and thrive
Welcome, I'm Ketura, counsellor at Transformative Place Counselling Service. I specialise in working with individuals diagnosed with borderline personality disorder work on emotional regulation and trauma, but you do not have to have BPD to benefit from the services I offer. I encourage you to explore emotions, how you hold these and memories within your body, gaining awareness of your nervous system's language. To learn how to unlock and be with discomfort and unfamiliar thoughts, emotions, memories and to make new experiences, to tolerate and manage distress and integrate past trauma/experiences into the present and thrive
(02) 4504 0282 View (02) 4504 0282
San Leenstra
Counsellor, MA, AThR
Serves Area
I have over 20 years experience working with individuals, adults, teens, children and families and have qualifications in Art Therapy, Family Therapy and have many years experience working in sexual assault recovery and trauma-informed practice.
I am passionate about working collaboratively and believe in balancing honesty with warmth and care, being straight forward as well as gentle, kind and non-judgemental. I work client-centred, with unconditional positive regard and allow each perspective to be heard, valued and taken seriously. I support each individual to explore their own unique way of being in this world, with all its challenges and rewards. I invite you to embrace a journey of self-discovery and growth in a safe, supportive environment where your voice matters.
I have over 20 years experience working with individuals, adults, teens, children and families and have qualifications in Art Therapy, Family Therapy and have many years experience working in sexual assault recovery and trauma-informed practice.
I am passionate about working collaboratively and believe in balancing honesty with warmth and care, being straight forward as well as gentle, kind and non-judgemental. I work client-centred, with unconditional positive regard and allow each perspective to be heard, valued and taken seriously. I support each individual to explore their own unique way of being in this world, with all its challenges and rewards. I invite you to embrace a journey of self-discovery and growth in a safe, supportive environment where your voice matters.
(03) 4422 2660 View (03) 4422 2660
Tracey Moroney
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Heathmont, VIC 3135
I am a trauma informed counsellor who respectfully builds connection using attachment theory as my foundation. My passion for helping people was established in my formative career as an oncology nurse. I assist people safely unpack aspects of themselves and their lives, in the hope that this process creates the ingredients for self-awareness, self-compassion and growth. With an attitude of curiosity, I aim to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, and empathic space for each person to reflect upon their unique lived experience. Together we help to build a repertoire of resources to draw upon, to foster greater joy and meaning in one’s life.
I am a trauma informed counsellor who respectfully builds connection using attachment theory as my foundation. My passion for helping people was established in my formative career as an oncology nurse. I assist people safely unpack aspects of themselves and their lives, in the hope that this process creates the ingredients for self-awareness, self-compassion and growth. With an attitude of curiosity, I aim to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, and empathic space for each person to reflect upon their unique lived experience. Together we help to build a repertoire of resources to draw upon, to foster greater joy and meaning in one’s life.
(03) 8203 5417 View (03) 8203 5417
Maddison Cassidy
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
You can call me Maddison, or Maddy. My main interest is supporting individuals who are navigating impacts of traumatic events. I frequently work with people who have experienced complex trauma, sexual violence and refugee trauma. I also have an interest in youth and forensic mental health. I enjoy working with people who have struggled to find the right therapeutic fit, or those who have found it difficult to access and navigate mental health and wellbeing support. I am passionate about therapy that is accessible and affordable, meetings people's needs and honours the complexity of peoples intersecting identities and experiences.
You can call me Maddison, or Maddy. My main interest is supporting individuals who are navigating impacts of traumatic events. I frequently work with people who have experienced complex trauma, sexual violence and refugee trauma. I also have an interest in youth and forensic mental health. I enjoy working with people who have struggled to find the right therapeutic fit, or those who have found it difficult to access and navigate mental health and wellbeing support. I am passionate about therapy that is accessible and affordable, meetings people's needs and honours the complexity of peoples intersecting identities and experiences.
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Peta de Burgh
Social Worker, AMHSW
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
I have experience working with adults who have suffered from childhood sexual abuse, physical abuse and neglect, as well as those who have been affected by a recent traumatic event.
I use a range of specialist interventions when working with Trauma, such as Somatic Therapy, TF-CBT ,EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing) psycho-education, and stabilisation techniques. I am particularly interested in polyvagal theory, brain plasticity, body psychotherapy, and incorporate this into my work with you.
I have experience working with adults who have suffered from childhood sexual abuse, physical abuse and neglect, as well as those who have been affected by a recent traumatic event.
I use a range of specialist interventions when working with Trauma, such as Somatic Therapy, TF-CBT ,EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing) psycho-education, and stabilisation techniques. I am particularly interested in polyvagal theory, brain plasticity, body psychotherapy, and incorporate this into my work with you.
(03) 7003 2905 View (03) 7003 2905
Kalinda Vary
Social Worker, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Fitzroy North, VIC 3068
I work with folks navigating mental health, existential anxiety, complex trauma, sexual assault, domestic violence, post traumatic stress, systemic harm, identity exploration, grief and burnout.
In general, my style is grounded, empathic and intuitive. I do however adapt my approach according to your needs and goals, for example if you prefer structure or interactive resources or the inclusion of somatic (body-based) or art therapies (for example intuitive drawing) I will incorporate these approaches.
I work with folks navigating mental health, existential anxiety, complex trauma, sexual assault, domestic violence, post traumatic stress, systemic harm, identity exploration, grief and burnout.
In general, my style is grounded, empathic and intuitive. I do however adapt my approach according to your needs and goals, for example if you prefer structure or interactive resources or the inclusion of somatic (body-based) or art therapies (for example intuitive drawing) I will incorporate these approaches.
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Sexual Abuse Therapists
How do therapists treat sexual abuse?
A good therapist will be nonjudgmental and possibly demonstrate active listening, repeating back what the client says to show that they have understood. These skills allow people to feel comfortable discussing their traumatic experiences openly. Some important treatment goals are to restore a sense of safety and to rebuild confidence. In addition to working one-on-one with the patient, a therapist might bring in supportive family members to assist the client.

Do you have to talk extensively about sexual abuse in therapy?
Survivors frequently find it difficult to describe what happened to them out loud. They can even still be in a state of denial if the sexual abuse occurred recently. It is important for survivors to acknowledge that what happened isn’t their fault and to challenge and reappraise any unhealthy feelings or thoughts as they arise. Art therapy and play therapy are useful non-verbal means of communication for some survivors.

How long does treatment for sexual abuse take?
Recovery from sexual abuse can be a long and difficult process. Some survivors are able to move on naturally on their own, given time, while others require the guidance of a trained therapist. Therapy needs vary and can range from a few sessions to months or even years. Healing from sexual abuse takes time, and everyone’s journey will look a little different.

Can trauma symptoms caused by sexual abuse come back after treatment?
As occurs in many cases of trauma, survivors of sexual abuse may experience PTSD-like symptoms long after the abuse has ceased or after an initial round of treatment has occurred. In such a case, there is evidence that prolonged exposure therapy is a useful treatment for survivors, and may be more efficacious than supportive counseling alone. While triggers may continue to cause distress, the idea is that, with time and repeated exposure, their power will fade, allowing survivors to move on with their lives.