Anxiety Psychologists and Therapists in Ashburton, VIC

Photo of Dimity Cowell, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Dimity Cowell
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Ashburton, VIC 3147
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.
When developing therapy goals, Dimity values each child’s unique strengths along with their sensory, communication and play preferences. She has a strong focus on listening to the individual child/adolescent's voice and working collaboratively with families to create environments where young people can feel understood, regulated, and supported.
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.
When developing therapy goals, Dimity values each child’s unique strengths along with their sensory, communication and play preferences. She has a strong focus on listening to the individual child/adolescent's voice and working collaboratively with families to create environments where young people can feel understood, regulated, and supported.
(03) 7500 5306 View (03) 7500 5306
Photo of Uma Symons, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
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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Photo of Craig Russouw, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Craig Russouw
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I have extensive experience working with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, anger management, phobias, stage of life changes, life stress, Autism Spectrum Disorder and PTSD.
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.
I have extensive experience working with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, anger management, phobias, stage of life changes, life stress, Autism Spectrum Disorder and PTSD.
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
Photo of Sundas Rehman, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
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
Photo of Dawn Vincent, Counsellor, AMHSW
Dawn Vincent
Counsellor, AMHSW
Serves Area
As an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Psychotherapist and Career Counsellor with over 30 years of experience in the mental health field, I have helped people with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, parenting, self esteem, plus a variety of work related issues including career counselling and development.
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.
As an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Psychotherapist and Career Counsellor with over 30 years of experience in the mental health field, I have helped people with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, parenting, self esteem, plus a variety of work related issues including career counselling and development.
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
Photo of Lisa Jacques, Social Worker, AMHSW
Lisa Jacques
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
I am particularly experienced working with adults, young people, couples and families struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, life transitions, stress and relationship problems.
Hi there, I'm Lisa from Mindful Psychotherapy. I am a Clinical Social Worker and Psychotherapist with over 27 years experience providing therapy to adults, young people, couples and families. I'm passionate about assisting people to work through life's challenges, improve their mental health and wellbeing, grow their self-compassion, live life by their most cherished values and build better relationships. I know it takes courage to come to therapy and I believe it is a privilege to walk alongside you for part of your journey. I am deeply committed to working respectfully and collaboratively with you on what is important to you.
I am particularly experienced working with adults, young people, couples and families struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, life transitions, stress and relationship problems.
Hi there, I'm Lisa from Mindful Psychotherapy. I am a Clinical Social Worker and Psychotherapist with over 27 years experience providing therapy to adults, young people, couples and families. I'm passionate about assisting people to work through life's challenges, improve their mental health and wellbeing, grow their self-compassion, live life by their most cherished values and build better relationships. I know it takes courage to come to therapy and I believe it is a privilege to walk alongside you for part of your journey. I am deeply committed to working respectfully and collaboratively with you on what is important to you.
(03) 7003 2649 View (03) 7003 2649
Photo of Dr Carli Growcott, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Carli Growcott
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I have a passion for working with primary school aged children who experience anxiety.
I have a positive and bubbly approach. Children quickly feel comfortable in my presence which allows us to engage and work well together. I support both parent and child in navigating the challenges and use a very positive approach. Teens also find me quite easy to relate to.
I have a passion for working with primary school aged children who experience anxiety.
I have a positive and bubbly approach. Children quickly feel comfortable in my presence which allows us to engage and work well together. I support both parent and child in navigating the challenges and use a very positive approach. Teens also find me quite easy to relate to.
0474 830 170 View 0474 830 170
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 David Jonty Spektor - PsychologyCare, Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
PsychologyCare
Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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
I am a Doctor of Clinical Psychology who trained in the UK and has worked in England, New Zealand and now Australia. My main interest is understanding the meaning behind an individual's suffering. My philosophy is that diagnoses act as a potential obstacle to truly understanding the reality of an individual's experience. Therefore, in practice, I try to refrain from medicalising someone's misery and instead be open to perceiving people's expressions of distress as often logical, rational, predictable and understandable reactions to some form of neglect, abuse, loss and/or trauma.
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
I am a Doctor of Clinical Psychology who trained in the UK and has worked in England, New Zealand and now Australia. My main interest is understanding the meaning behind an individual's suffering. My philosophy is that diagnoses act as a potential obstacle to truly understanding the reality of an individual's experience. Therefore, in practice, I try to refrain from medicalising someone's misery and instead be open to perceiving people's expressions of distress as often logical, rational, predictable and understandable reactions to some form of neglect, abuse, loss and/or trauma.
(03) 7003 2260 View (03) 7003 2260
Photo of Tanja Ben-Meir, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Tanja Ben-Meir
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Ashburton, VIC 3147
I help navigate relationship challenges, life transitions, anxiety, or self-doubt.
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.
I help navigate relationship challenges, life transitions, anxiety, or self-doubt.
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
Photo of Renee Melges, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Renee Melges
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Ashburton, VIC 3147
Renee Melges specialises in mood and anxiety disorders.
Through Online or In person consultations, you can be supported to develop a greater understanding of yourself and your underlying core negative belief systems that are impacting how you respond to your life. Holistic Counselling supports you to shift underlying patterns of responding that no longer serve you.
Renee Melges specialises in mood and anxiety disorders.
Through Online or In person consultations, you can be supported to develop a greater understanding of yourself and your underlying core negative belief systems that are impacting how you respond to your life. Holistic Counselling supports you to shift underlying patterns of responding that no longer serve you.
(03) 8203 5831 View (03) 8203 5831
Photo of Belinda Xagremenakos - Be Ok Therapy Services, Social Worker, AMHSW
Be Ok Therapy Services
Social Worker, AMHSW
Ashburton, VIC 3147
I provide a calm, supportive space where you can explore what’s going on, feel heard, and work toward meaningful change — whether you're struggling with anxiety, low mood, stress, trauma, relationships, or life transitions.
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 provide a calm, supportive space where you can explore what’s going on, feel heard, and work toward meaningful change — whether you're struggling with anxiety, low mood, stress, trauma, relationships, or life transitions.
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
Photo of Charlotte Workman, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Charlotte Workman
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I enjoy working with anxiety disorders, depression, trauma disorders and perinatal mental health (conception-2yr post birth).
I take a tailored approach when working with my clients and love getting to know you and learning what works best for you. I use a range of modalities in my practice including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy.
I enjoy working with anxiety disorders, depression, trauma disorders and perinatal mental health (conception-2yr post birth).
I take a tailored approach when working with my clients and love getting to know you and learning what works best for you. I use a range of modalities in my practice including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy.
(03) 8771 5305 View (03) 8771 5305
Photo of Karen Woodbury, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Karen Woodbury
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I work with individuals and couples who are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, stress, trauma and relational concerns.
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 with individuals and couples who are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, stress, trauma and relational concerns.
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
Photo of Nenita Batica, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Nenita Batica
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I work with adults experiencing anxiety, stress, low mood, burnout, grief, and the effects of trauma or difficult life experiences.
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 work with adults experiencing anxiety, stress, low mood, burnout, grief, and the effects of trauma or difficult life experiences.
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
Photo of Dr Andrea Sadusky, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Ed. Psych.
Dr Andrea Sadusky
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Ed. Psych.
Serves Area
No one makes it through without facing pain, frustration, anxiety, or uncertainty.
I offer counselling and psychological assessments for people of all ages, with a focus on neurodiversity, emotional wellbeing, and life transitions. My approach is evidence-based and flexible, drawing on therapies like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Mindfulness. No two clients are alike. I’ll take the time
No one makes it through without facing pain, frustration, anxiety, or uncertainty.
I offer counselling and psychological assessments for people of all ages, with a focus on neurodiversity, emotional wellbeing, and life transitions. My approach is evidence-based and flexible, drawing on therapies like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Mindfulness. No two clients are alike. I’ll take the time
(03) 7500 5839 View (03) 7500 5839
Photo of Kate Hill - The Play Therapy Studio , Counsellor, AASW
The Play Therapy Studio
Counsellor, AASW
Serves Area
I also offer EMDR to children and adolescents - allowing young people to safely process their internal needs and worries meaningfully.
Play based CCPT and Interplay therapy support families in a safe space, where relationship is paramount. I offer you a space to connect, experience and make sense of parts of your world that may be challenging for you; and the opportunity to experience healing, form increased emotional resilience, and healthier ways of coping and relating to you and others.
I also offer EMDR to children and adolescents - allowing young people to safely process their internal needs and worries meaningfully.
Play based CCPT and Interplay therapy support families in a safe space, where relationship is paramount. I offer you a space to connect, experience and make sense of parts of your world that may be challenging for you; and the opportunity to experience healing, form increased emotional resilience, and healthier ways of coping and relating to you and others.
(03) 7500 5114 View (03) 7500 5114
Photo of Dr Christine James, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Christine James
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
For many clients with depression or anxiety, there may be underlying trauma.
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.
For many clients with depression or anxiety, there may be underlying trauma.
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
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 Sue Guzick, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Sue Guzick
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
You might be considering therapy with long experience of feeling anxious and overwhelmed.
My qualifications include the Master of Art Therapy (integrated Counselling), Dip of Mental Health, ongoing Master of Counselling, and specialised training with complex mental health and trauma. This training and practice provide us with opportunities to work with verbal counselling, expressive therapy, and new ways for you to apply evidence-based methods.
You might be considering therapy with long experience of feeling anxious and overwhelmed.
My qualifications include the Master of Art Therapy (integrated Counselling), Dip of Mental Health, ongoing Master of Counselling, and specialised training with complex mental health and trauma. This training and practice provide us with opportunities to work with verbal counselling, expressive therapy, and new ways for you to apply evidence-based methods.
0439 413 858 View 0439 413 858
Anxiety Therapists
When should I seek treatment for anxiety?
Everyone feels anxious at times, but when anxiety causes disruption to your daily life, it may be time to seek help. Such disruption can be mental, physical, or both: having fear dominate your thoughts, avoiding situations or objects that bring on feelings of anxiety, or experiencing shortness of breath, sweating, dizziness, or panic attacks. When these symptoms are recurrent and distressing, it may be time to talk to someone.

What are the most common types of treatment for anxiety?
Talk therapy, particularly cognitive behavioural therapy, is the most common treatment for anxiety. Studies have shown it is equally effective as medication. Other forms of therapy are popular, depending on a patient’s experience. Exposure therapy, for instance, can be useful for people dealing with fears and phobias, or who have experienced traumatic events. Dialectical Behavioural Therapy may be useful for patients who need help with emotion regulation. Anxiolytic medications, like benzodiazepines, can also help with calming a person enough to focus on the skills they’ve learned, and physical exercise has been shown to help symptoms of anxiety across the board.

How long does therapy for anxiety take to work?
The amount of time needed to alleviate symptoms depends on the severity of a person’s condition. Some therapies may take 5-20 weekly sessions to show results. Anti-depressant medications typically take two to four weeks before a benefit is felt. Anti-anxiety medications are felt typically within 20-30 minutes. Medications are best used to offer a patient a better headspace in which to work on techniques learned in therapy. Exercise, improved sleep habits, and meditation are effective, but takes weeks or months to show results.

How effective is treatment for anxiety?
Treatment for anxiety has been shown to be moderately to highly effective, according to a large body of psychology studies and analyses. For some people, treatment using CBT or exposure therapy alone is effective. Others respond best to a combination of medication and therapy.