Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Psychologists and Therapists in Ashburton, VIC

Be Ok Therapy Services
Social Worker, AMHSW
Ashburton, VIC 3147
I draw on evidence-based therapies such as CBT, ACT, DBT, mindfulness, Schema therapy and trauma-informed practice, and I work in a way that’s respectful, practical and focused on your strengths.
Medicare rebates are available with a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP. I offer both in-person and telehealth appointments. Feel free to reach out for a free 10-minute consultation.
I draw on evidence-based therapies such as CBT, ACT, DBT, mindfulness, Schema therapy and trauma-informed practice, and I work in a way that’s respectful, practical and focused on your strengths.
Medicare rebates are available with a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP. I offer both in-person and telehealth appointments. Feel free to reach out for a free 10-minute consultation.
(03) 8771 4574 View (03) 8771 4574
Dimity Cowell
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Ashburton, VIC 3147
Dimity is a warm and collaborative psychologist who is passionate about supporting children, adolescents, and their families. She has worked across community organisations, public mental health, and schools, and brings a gentle, neuro-affirming approach to all her therapeutic work. Dimity is experienced in supporting young people with trauma histories, low mood, anxiety, school refusal, eating and feeding challenges, and a wide range of behavioural and emotional differences.
Dimity is a warm and collaborative psychologist who is passionate about supporting children, adolescents, and their families. She has worked across community organisations, public mental health, and schools, and brings a gentle, neuro-affirming approach to all her therapeutic work. Dimity is experienced in supporting young people with trauma histories, low mood, anxiety, school refusal, eating and feeding challenges, and a wide range of behavioural and emotional differences.
(03) 7500 5306 View (03) 7500 5306
Renee Melges
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Ashburton, VIC 3147
Renee Melges is a Registered Clinical Psychologist with a Masters in Clinical Psychology. She has over 25 years experience working as a Psychologist and combines eastern and western philosophies to assist the client to maximise their potential and facilitate personal growth. Renee Melges provides Online and In person Holistic Counselling for adults, adolescents and primary school children across Australia. Renee Melges specialises in mood and anxiety disorders.
Renee Melges is a Registered Clinical Psychologist with a Masters in Clinical Psychology. She has over 25 years experience working as a Psychologist and combines eastern and western philosophies to assist the client to maximise their potential and facilitate personal growth. Renee Melges provides Online and In person Holistic Counselling for adults, adolescents and primary school children across Australia. Renee Melges specialises in mood and anxiety disorders.
(03) 8203 5831 View (03) 8203 5831
Tanja Ben-Meir
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Ashburton, VIC 3147
With warmth and evidence-based modalities like CBT (Cognitive Behavioural), ACT ( Acceptance and Commitment) and Gottman Therapy, I support clients to understand themselves better, build stronger connections and see lasting change.
I enjoy working with individuals and couples and have a passion for empowering you on your path forward. Many of my clients are navigating couples / relationship dynamics or are processing lingering impacts of past experiences. Often high-functioning and thoughtful, they find themselves stuck between who they are and who they want to be. If you are hoping to feel more secure in yourself and/or your relationships, if you are seeking to reconnect or find meaning, if you are looking to learn to respond to life's challenges with greater clarity and confidence, I can support you on your journey.
With warmth and evidence-based modalities like CBT (Cognitive Behavioural), ACT ( Acceptance and Commitment) and Gottman Therapy, I support clients to understand themselves better, build stronger connections and see lasting change.
I enjoy working with individuals and couples and have a passion for empowering you on your path forward. Many of my clients are navigating couples / relationship dynamics or are processing lingering impacts of past experiences. Often high-functioning and thoughtful, they find themselves stuck between who they are and who they want to be. If you are hoping to feel more secure in yourself and/or your relationships, if you are seeking to reconnect or find meaning, if you are looking to learn to respond to life's challenges with greater clarity and confidence, I can support you on your journey.
(03) 9118 9020 View (03) 9118 9020
Uma Symons
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Online Only
Therapy is a highly individual experience that should centre your needs and your level of comfort. Uma provides a warm and empathetic approach to therapy, with an appreciation for what your unique strengths and insights can bring to therapy. Uma has lived experience as a person with ADHD, as well as experience building community within environmental and youth advocacy spaces. Uma works primarily within values-based modalities such as Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, but can also provide Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Narrative Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Therapy is a highly individual experience that should centre your needs and your level of comfort. Uma provides a warm and empathetic approach to therapy, with an appreciation for what your unique strengths and insights can bring to therapy. Uma has lived experience as a person with ADHD, as well as experience building community within environmental and youth advocacy spaces. Uma works primarily within values-based modalities such as Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, but can also provide Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Narrative Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy.
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Dr Andrea Sadusky
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Ed. Psych.
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Andrea. I really value the opportunity to support people when life feels difficult, confusing or overwhelming. People often come to therapy when they feel stuck, burnt out, anxious or unsure about what to do next. I aim to provide a space where you can speak openly, better understand what is happening for you, and work towards changes that feel realistic and meaningful. I won’t pretend that therapy makes difficult things disappear. Instead, I believe my role is to help you make sense of them, identify what matters to you, and find a way forward that feels right for you.
Hi, I’m Andrea. I really value the opportunity to support people when life feels difficult, confusing or overwhelming. People often come to therapy when they feel stuck, burnt out, anxious or unsure about what to do next. I aim to provide a space where you can speak openly, better understand what is happening for you, and work towards changes that feel realistic and meaningful. I won’t pretend that therapy makes difficult things disappear. Instead, I believe my role is to help you make sense of them, identify what matters to you, and find a way forward that feels right for you.
(03) 7500 5839 View (03) 7500 5839
Ruth Eismontas
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
If your relationship has hit a bad patch, you have ongoing conflict or have grown apart, I can heIp you. If you wish to improve your communication skills or learn how to manage conflict, then seriously consider calling me. I have the skills and experience to work jointly with you and your partner. I specialised in Relationship Counselling at Relationships Australia and have worked with couples and families for more than 20 years. My training also includes Clinical Family Therapy and I can support you with the parenting of your children.
If your relationship has hit a bad patch, you have ongoing conflict or have grown apart, I can heIp you. If you wish to improve your communication skills or learn how to manage conflict, then seriously consider calling me. I have the skills and experience to work jointly with you and your partner. I specialised in Relationship Counselling at Relationships Australia and have worked with couples and families for more than 20 years. My training also includes Clinical Family Therapy and I can support you with the parenting of your children.
(02) 4810 0640 View (02) 4810 0640
Gemma Louise Morley
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My flexible approach integrates CBT, ACT and trauma-informed approaches such as Schema Therapy.
I am a warm and approachable psychologist who creates a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. My goal is to help you gain a deeper understanding of yourself, address your challenges, and make meaningful changes in your life. I believe in keeping our sessions relaxed and enjoyable. I love sharing a laugh with my clients as we navigate their journeys together. I have a particular interest in supporting adolescents, young adults and new parents.
My flexible approach integrates CBT, ACT and trauma-informed approaches such as Schema Therapy.
I am a warm and approachable psychologist who creates a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. My goal is to help you gain a deeper understanding of yourself, address your challenges, and make meaningful changes in your life. I believe in keeping our sessions relaxed and enjoyable. I love sharing a laugh with my clients as we navigate their journeys together. I have a particular interest in supporting adolescents, young adults and new parents.
(03) 7003 2182 View (03) 7003 2182
PsychologyCare
Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My philosophy is that diagnoses act as a potential obstacle to truly understanding the reality of an individual's experience.
Director of PsychologyCare and Core Therapist on Psilocybin Assisted Psychotherapy and GAD trial as well as Lead Clinician and supervisor for the MDMA for PTSD trial at Clinical Psychedelic Research Lab Monash University
My philosophy is that diagnoses act as a potential obstacle to truly understanding the reality of an individual's experience.
Director of PsychologyCare and Core Therapist on Psilocybin Assisted Psychotherapy and GAD trial as well as Lead Clinician and supervisor for the MDMA for PTSD trial at Clinical Psychedelic Research Lab Monash University
(03) 7003 2260 View (03) 7003 2260
Nenita Batica
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I draw from evidence-based approaches including EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Schema Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
Hi! I’m a registered psychologist and accredited EMDR Practitioner, with a particular focus on supporting women experiencing trauma, emotional overwhelm, relationship difficulties, stress, burnout, and the ongoing impact of difficult life experiences. Many people come to me feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected, and looking for a safe space to make sense of what they’re going through. My approach is warm, calm, and collaborative. As a woman myself, I understand how easy it can be to put everyone else first while losing sight of your own needs. I aim to help clients feel understood, supported, and more like themselves again.
I draw from evidence-based approaches including EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Schema Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
Hi! I’m a registered psychologist and accredited EMDR Practitioner, with a particular focus on supporting women experiencing trauma, emotional overwhelm, relationship difficulties, stress, burnout, and the ongoing impact of difficult life experiences. Many people come to me feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected, and looking for a safe space to make sense of what they’re going through. My approach is warm, calm, and collaborative. As a woman myself, I understand how easy it can be to put everyone else first while losing sight of your own needs. I aim to help clients feel understood, supported, and more like themselves again.
(03) 8771 4591 View (03) 8771 4591
Jessica Elberg
Counsellor, MA, AMHSW
Serves Area
I draw on a range of therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive behavioural therapy; Mindfullness; Social Skills Training; Problem Solving; Anger Management/Emotional Regulation; Acceptance and Commitment Therapy; Stress Management; Interpersonal Therapy; Relaxation Strategies and Parenting Skills.
Feeling overwhelmed by life? I am a warm, skilled and experienced counsellor, who will support you through life's challenges, I can help you deal with a broad range of concerns, supporting you to examine your core beliefs and understanding of issues affecting you. Adjusting thoughts, feelings and behaviours through evidence-based counselling techniques creates opportunities for authentic growth and long-lasting change. I will support you in adopting and maintaining effective approaches to any difficulties that your'e experiencing, creating a renewed sense of optimism and well-being.
I draw on a range of therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive behavioural therapy; Mindfullness; Social Skills Training; Problem Solving; Anger Management/Emotional Regulation; Acceptance and Commitment Therapy; Stress Management; Interpersonal Therapy; Relaxation Strategies and Parenting Skills.
Feeling overwhelmed by life? I am a warm, skilled and experienced counsellor, who will support you through life's challenges, I can help you deal with a broad range of concerns, supporting you to examine your core beliefs and understanding of issues affecting you. Adjusting thoughts, feelings and behaviours through evidence-based counselling techniques creates opportunities for authentic growth and long-lasting change. I will support you in adopting and maintaining effective approaches to any difficulties that your'e experiencing, creating a renewed sense of optimism and well-being.
0410 913 154 View 0410 913 154
Lachlan Hall
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Online Only
Combining CBT, solution-focused, ACT, bibliotherapy and other frameworks we utilize a pragmatic approach.
I work with people who don't fit the standard 9-to-5 mould - FIFO and shift workers, tradies, high performers, and anyone who's tried talk therapy before and found it didnt feel like the right fit for them. Circle It Counselling offers evening and night sessions built around real rosters, not office hours. Every session ends with concerete plans, and individualised worksheets that promote reflection, emotional tracking and growth are provided for the time between sessions. If you've written off counselling because the format didn't fit you, this might be the one that does.
Combining CBT, solution-focused, ACT, bibliotherapy and other frameworks we utilize a pragmatic approach.
I work with people who don't fit the standard 9-to-5 mould - FIFO and shift workers, tradies, high performers, and anyone who's tried talk therapy before and found it didnt feel like the right fit for them. Circle It Counselling offers evening and night sessions built around real rosters, not office hours. Every session ends with concerete plans, and individualised worksheets that promote reflection, emotional tracking and growth are provided for the time between sessions. If you've written off counselling because the format didn't fit you, this might be the one that does.
0497 532 285 View 0497 532 285
Sundas Rehman
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Welcome to Internal Sunshine, where we embrace a holistic approach to your well-being, valuing every facet of who you are – your mind, body, soul, and social connections. Here, we understand that your spiritual beliefs, values, and sense of purpose are integral parts of your journey. Our therapy is grounded in anti-racism, affirming principles, and deep respect for your experiences and resilience. We're also committed to a neuroaffirming practice in therapy, which means we recognize and celebrate the diverse ways individuals process and engage with the world.
Welcome to Internal Sunshine, where we embrace a holistic approach to your well-being, valuing every facet of who you are – your mind, body, soul, and social connections. Here, we understand that your spiritual beliefs, values, and sense of purpose are integral parts of your journey. Our therapy is grounded in anti-racism, affirming principles, and deep respect for your experiences and resilience. We're also committed to a neuroaffirming practice in therapy, which means we recognize and celebrate the diverse ways individuals process and engage with the world.
(03) 7500 5089 View (03) 7500 5089
Craig Russouw
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
My therapeutic approaches including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Play Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy.
With 20 years’ experience working in psychology, I have supported many community members on their mental health journeys and helped a wide range of people, including adults and children. I am a relationship based professional and I pride myself on being able to establish engaging relationships with my clients and their carers, in a safe and calming space. I work with women and men, and specialise in being able to connect with men and young people.
My therapeutic approaches including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Play Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy.
With 20 years’ experience working in psychology, I have supported many community members on their mental health journeys and helped a wide range of people, including adults and children. I am a relationship based professional and I pride myself on being able to establish engaging relationships with my clients and their carers, in a safe and calming space. I work with women and men, and specialise in being able to connect with men and young people.
(03) 7003 2316 View (03) 7003 2316
Mindful Mental Health Care
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Serves Area
Drawing on ACT, CBT, DBT, schema, narrative, and family systems therapy, I tailor care to you, integrating mind, body, and spirit.
Reaching out takes courage. I'm an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with 25 years' experience. I am also an international martial arts instructor. Mental Health Social Workers are trained in many of the same evidence-based therapies as a psychologist. In addition, a social work lens helps understand you within your whole context: relationships, family, culture and circumstances. My care is neuro-affirming and trauma-informed, for individuals, couples, and families, including neurodivergence, trauma, and mood. Telehealth Australia-wide and in Hawthorn; Medicare, NDIS, and WorkSafe registered. I'd be glad to work alongside you.
Drawing on ACT, CBT, DBT, schema, narrative, and family systems therapy, I tailor care to you, integrating mind, body, and spirit.
Reaching out takes courage. I'm an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with 25 years' experience. I am also an international martial arts instructor. Mental Health Social Workers are trained in many of the same evidence-based therapies as a psychologist. In addition, a social work lens helps understand you within your whole context: relationships, family, culture and circumstances. My care is neuro-affirming and trauma-informed, for individuals, couples, and families, including neurodivergence, trauma, and mood. Telehealth Australia-wide and in Hawthorn; Medicare, NDIS, and WorkSafe registered. I'd be glad to work alongside you.
0433 230 701 View 0433 230 701
Sue Guzick
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello, I’m Sue. I am a Counsellor, Art Therapist, and established Bright Black Art Therapy & Counselling in 2018. You might be considering therapy with long experience of feeling anxious and overwhelmed. Although you have tried many things, it’s not working as well as you would like. I offer a person-centred style, towards understanding YOU and your experiences. Together we use a range of therapeutic methods and choose what is most helpful for you. Therapy plans can include development and practicing new ways for you to work with your most challenging experiences, so they feel like less of a barrier to do what matters most to you.
Hello, I’m Sue. I am a Counsellor, Art Therapist, and established Bright Black Art Therapy & Counselling in 2018. You might be considering therapy with long experience of feeling anxious and overwhelmed. Although you have tried many things, it’s not working as well as you would like. I offer a person-centred style, towards understanding YOU and your experiences. Together we use a range of therapeutic methods and choose what is most helpful for you. Therapy plans can include development and practicing new ways for you to work with your most challenging experiences, so they feel like less of a barrier to do what matters most to you.
0439 413 858 View 0439 413 858
Karen Woodbury
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I work from a strength and values-based approach, providing a supportive environment to explore and challenge thoughts, feelings, and behaviour. My practice is person-centred and humanistic, drawing on a variety of psychological modalities. I believe the most effective therapy is flexible, shaped by what you're facing.
I work from a strength and values-based approach, providing a supportive environment to explore and challenge thoughts, feelings, and behaviour. My practice is person-centred and humanistic, drawing on a variety of psychological modalities. I believe the most effective therapy is flexible, shaped by what you're facing.
(03) 9964 3755 View (03) 9964 3755
Dawn Vincent
Counsellor, AMHSW
Serves Area
Are you experiencing low mood, finding it hard to stop worrying and feeling dissatisfied with the quality of your relationships or unhappy with your personal or working life? With the busyness of our lives and the pressures and demands we all face daily, our emotional wellbeing is an area which can be neglected. However, there comes a time when we know that it is time to stop and take some action to turn our life around. Counselling with me can help you with the skills and strategies you need to make changes and choices which will allow you to find the satisfaction you seek in the key areas of your life.
Are you experiencing low mood, finding it hard to stop worrying and feeling dissatisfied with the quality of your relationships or unhappy with your personal or working life? With the busyness of our lives and the pressures and demands we all face daily, our emotional wellbeing is an area which can be neglected. However, there comes a time when we know that it is time to stop and take some action to turn our life around. Counselling with me can help you with the skills and strategies you need to make changes and choices which will allow you to find the satisfaction you seek in the key areas of your life.
(03) 9068 5948 View (03) 9068 5948
Vanessa Wylie: Relationship Therapist
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Serves Area
I utilise a range of evidence-based therapeutic approaches, such as Terry Real RLT, Gottman Method Couple Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, EMDR, ACT, CBT, and Mindfulness.
Are you wondering whether your relationship can change, or why your past relationships haven't worked? I can help. I work with men, women, and couples who are ready for things to change. 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.
I utilise a range of evidence-based therapeutic approaches, such as Terry Real RLT, Gottman Method Couple Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, EMDR, ACT, CBT, and Mindfulness.
Are you wondering whether your relationship can change, or why your past relationships haven't worked? I can help. I work with men, women, and couples who are ready for things to change. 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
Dr Christine James
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
My main approach is EMDR (an evidence-based trauma treatment), but I use other treatments such as ACT, CBT and DBT when needed.
I am a clinical psychologist with over twenty years' experience. My particular area of interest is trauma and much of my practise is with first responders and others with workplace trauma.I also work with people who have experienced childhood trauma. I am registered to provide services through VACU to Ambulance Victoria staff, through Bluehub to Victoria Police, and through Open Arms to military personnel. I also see individuals on Worksafe and through Medicare.
My main approach is EMDR (an evidence-based trauma treatment), but I use other treatments such as ACT, CBT and DBT when needed.
I am a clinical psychologist with over twenty years' experience. My particular area of interest is trauma and much of my practise is with first responders and others with workplace trauma.I also work with people who have experienced childhood trauma. I am registered to provide services through VACU to Ambulance Victoria staff, through Bluehub to Victoria Police, and through Open Arms to military personnel. I also see individuals on Worksafe and through Medicare.
(03) 8771 5095 View (03) 8771 5095
Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists
How does acceptance and commitment therapy work?
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy encourages a person to listen to their self-talk. A person’s inner dialog can be indicative of how they treat themselves. ACT also encourages self-compassion; this can lead to a better understanding of negative thought patterns and emotional states. This understanding can then lead the individual to needed behavior change.

What are the goals of acceptance and commitment therapy?
The goal of acceptance and commitment is to expand a person’s psychological flexibility, a trait that encourages an individual to live in the present moment and to accept all their thoughts, feelings, and emotions, even ones that are difficult such as sadness and anxiety. In ACT, this acceptance is congruent with the individual’s values and beliefs.

Does acceptance and commitment therapy work for depression?
Acceptance and commitment therapy is effective for depression because it allows the individual to view their discomfort and suffering differently. Depressive feelings about relationship heartaches, for example, are a part of life. A despondent person learns to let go of their struggles and instead view their painful thoughts and feelings with compassion. This will lead the individual toward positive change.

How long are people typically in acceptance and commitment therapy?
A typical acceptance and commitment therapy session is 50 minutes long with one session per week. Treatment for common problems such as anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties can last between eight weeks to four months. However, more severe cases may require more than one session a week and/or a longer time frame for treatment.