Psychodynamic Psychologists and Therapists in Ashwood, VIC

Photo of Beth Walton, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Beth Walton
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Online Only
I am a registered counsellor who works mainly with neurodivergent women and young adults (16+). My counselling style is warm, supportive, and grounded. I offer a neurodiversity-affirming and inclusive practice, including for LGBTQIA+ clients. I focus on creating a safe space where you feel understood and empowered. I aim to work with your brain, not against it, and adapt my approach to reflect how you experience the world.
I am a registered counsellor who works mainly with neurodivergent women and young adults (16+). My counselling style is warm, supportive, and grounded. I offer a neurodiversity-affirming and inclusive practice, including for LGBTQIA+ clients. I focus on creating a safe space where you feel understood and empowered. I aim to work with your brain, not against it, and adapt my approach to reflect how you experience the world.
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Photo of Alexander Thornton, Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Alexander Thornton
Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Ashwood, VIC 3147
I offer an eclectic and integrated approach to helping client's to successfully manage their lives. I am deeply committed to drawing-out the client's own innate potential to respond to their challenges. I firmly believe the 'obstacle is the way'. Rebates are available for clients with mental health treatment plans from their GP. More information available at www.stillpointpsychology.com.au
I offer an eclectic and integrated approach to helping client's to successfully manage their lives. I am deeply committed to drawing-out the client's own innate potential to respond to their challenges. I firmly believe the 'obstacle is the way'. Rebates are available for clients with mental health treatment plans from their GP. More information available at www.stillpointpsychology.com.au
(03) 9068 5682 x043120 View (03) 9068 5682 x043120
Photo of Dawn Vincent, Counsellor, AMHSW
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
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

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ruairi Gallagher, Social Worker, AMHSW
Ruairi Gallagher
Social Worker, AMHSW
2 Endorsed
Thornbury, VIC 3071
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in the community sector. Having worked in both urban and regional locations in Australia, and in community-based roles in the UK and Canada, I pride myself on being able to connect with people from all walks of life. I've worked with people of all genders, sexualities, cultures and abilities. Whilst working on Vancouver Island, I ran addictions support groups made up of an assortment of individuals. Homeless folks would be facing similar issues to investment banker-types. This led to me becoming more interested in the universality of trauma and PTSD.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in the community sector. Having worked in both urban and regional locations in Australia, and in community-based roles in the UK and Canada, I pride myself on being able to connect with people from all walks of life. I've worked with people of all genders, sexualities, cultures and abilities. Whilst working on Vancouver Island, I ran addictions support groups made up of an assortment of individuals. Homeless folks would be facing similar issues to investment banker-types. This led to me becoming more interested in the universality of trauma and PTSD.
(03) 8338 4331 View (03) 8338 4331
Photo of Marcellina Moussa, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Marcellina Moussa
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Essendon North, VIC 3041
I’m a registered psychologist who aims to create a space that feels safe, authentic, and genuinely supportive. I believe therapy works best when you feel comfortable being yourself, so my focus is on building a trusting relationship where you can explore what’s going on for you openly and without judgement.
I’m a registered psychologist who aims to create a space that feels safe, authentic, and genuinely supportive. I believe therapy works best when you feel comfortable being yourself, so my focus is on building a trusting relationship where you can explore what’s going on for you openly and without judgement.
(03) 9007 2563 View (03) 9007 2563
Photo of Elizabeth McCracken, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Elizabeth McCracken
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Warrandyte, VIC 3113
Elizabeth practices from an integrative stance that prioritizes tailoring therapy to meet your goals within the context of a safe therapeutic relationship. She is dedicated to helping people move beyond symptom relief towards lasting change and fulfilment. In addition to treating any underlying diagnoses, therapy can include help with personal goals, personality difficulties, improving relationships, improving self management skills and life transitions. She uses modern psychoanalytic frameworks (ISTDP) and is able to work within skills based frameworks as well (CBT, ACT, DBT). Outside of psychology,
Elizabeth practices from an integrative stance that prioritizes tailoring therapy to meet your goals within the context of a safe therapeutic relationship. She is dedicated to helping people move beyond symptom relief towards lasting change and fulfilment. In addition to treating any underlying diagnoses, therapy can include help with personal goals, personality difficulties, improving relationships, improving self management skills and life transitions. She uses modern psychoanalytic frameworks (ISTDP) and is able to work within skills based frameworks as well (CBT, ACT, DBT). Outside of psychology,
(03) 8771 5190 View (03) 8771 5190
Photo of Melanie Colhoun - Melanie Colhoun - Integrated Psychology Centre, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Melanie Colhoun - Integrated Psychology Centre
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Chelsea Heights, VIC 3196
Clinician's use Trauma Informed Therapies , Cognitive Behavioural therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy and Schema Therapy
Melanie is the Principal Clinical Psychologist at Integrated Psychology Centre, a group private practice including Clinical, Counselling. Health, Educational & Developmental registered psychologists. A Graduate of Monash University, Melanie has over twenty years experience in private practice and other clinical settings including; university counselling, employee assistance programmes, employment services, asylum seeker detention centres and educational settings. Our psychologists consult with children, teens and adults.
Clinician's use Trauma Informed Therapies , Cognitive Behavioural therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy and Schema Therapy
Melanie is the Principal Clinical Psychologist at Integrated Psychology Centre, a group private practice including Clinical, Counselling. Health, Educational & Developmental registered psychologists. A Graduate of Monash University, Melanie has over twenty years experience in private practice and other clinical settings including; university counselling, employee assistance programmes, employment services, asylum seeker detention centres and educational settings. Our psychologists consult with children, teens and adults.
(03) 7500 5942 View (03) 7500 5942
Photo of Alexander J Karkar, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Alexander J Karkar
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Carlton North, VIC 3054
Psychoanalysis in Melbourne. If a psychoanalyst is in a position to listen, then the patient - the one said to be 'in analysis', is certainly in a position to speak. Nevertheless, there is very little that is certain about being in a position to speak, especially speaking under the directive of the fundamental rule: Say whatever comes to mind, censor nothing, no matter how insignificant, Idiotic, perverse, or crazy you think it is. Proceeding in this manner for a while would it be at all surprising if we came to learn something?
Psychoanalysis in Melbourne. If a psychoanalyst is in a position to listen, then the patient - the one said to be 'in analysis', is certainly in a position to speak. Nevertheless, there is very little that is certain about being in a position to speak, especially speaking under the directive of the fundamental rule: Say whatever comes to mind, censor nothing, no matter how insignificant, Idiotic, perverse, or crazy you think it is. Proceeding in this manner for a while would it be at all surprising if we came to learn something?
(03) 6146 1675 View (03) 6146 1675
Photo of Adam Hunt, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Adam Hunt
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Ivanhoe East, VIC 3079
I am an Emotion Focused (EFT), Psychodynamic and Existentially trained Psychotherapist working with individuals and couples.
I work with clients to create a space grounded in compassion, curiosity and steady focus. Together, we develop awareness and clarity around their current life situation, thoughts and feelings, relational patterns, and where they may feel stuck.
I am an Emotion Focused (EFT), Psychodynamic and Existentially trained Psychotherapist working with individuals and couples.
I work with clients to create a space grounded in compassion, curiosity and steady focus. Together, we develop awareness and clarity around their current life situation, thoughts and feelings, relational patterns, and where they may feel stuck.
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Photo of Aneira Connell, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Aneira Connell
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Brunswick West, VIC 3055
My therapeutic style is strengths and evidence-based and guided by psychodynamic principles to foster meaningful insight and self-awareness.
I work with adults, adolescents, and children seeking support for a range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma (PTSD, C-PTSD), grief and loss, obsessive-compulsive disorder, personality diagnoses, relationship or family challenges. My experience also includes the assessment and support of neurodivergence (Autism Spectrum and ADHD), as well as people navigating complex systems like the NDIS or child protection. My work with clients aims to support emotional awareness, self-compassion, and gaining access to their inner resources for positive change.
My therapeutic style is strengths and evidence-based and guided by psychodynamic principles to foster meaningful insight and self-awareness.
I work with adults, adolescents, and children seeking support for a range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma (PTSD, C-PTSD), grief and loss, obsessive-compulsive disorder, personality diagnoses, relationship or family challenges. My experience also includes the assessment and support of neurodivergence (Autism Spectrum and ADHD), as well as people navigating complex systems like the NDIS or child protection. My work with clients aims to support emotional awareness, self-compassion, and gaining access to their inner resources for positive change.
0448 751 022 View 0448 751 022
Photo of Vanessa Kugathasan, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Vanessa Kugathasan
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Ivanhoe, VIC 3079
I am a clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience, I have had the privilege of working with a wide array of difficulties across different settings, from youth and adult community mental health to hospitals within the public sector. Over the years, I have transitioned to private practice, where I have supported clients dealing with a range of issues from depression and anxiety to relationship challenges, stress, and chronic illness.
I am a clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience, I have had the privilege of working with a wide array of difficulties across different settings, from youth and adult community mental health to hospitals within the public sector. Over the years, I have transitioned to private practice, where I have supported clients dealing with a range of issues from depression and anxiety to relationship challenges, stress, and chronic illness.
(03) 8400 0598 View (03) 8400 0598
Photo of Jacqueline Ha, Counsellor, PACFA
Jacqueline Ha
Counsellor, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Camberwell, VIC 3124
Many people come to therapy after reaching a point where the ways they’ve been coping no longer feel sustainable. You might find yourself feeling overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, stuck in the same relationship patterns, or struggling to understand why certain experiences continue to affect you so deeply - even when part of you feels like you “should” have moved on by now. For some, therapy becomes a space to finally slow down and pay attention to things they’ve spent years pushing aside, minimising, or trying to manage on their own.
Many people come to therapy after reaching a point where the ways they’ve been coping no longer feel sustainable. You might find yourself feeling overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, stuck in the same relationship patterns, or struggling to understand why certain experiences continue to affect you so deeply - even when part of you feels like you “should” have moved on by now. For some, therapy becomes a space to finally slow down and pay attention to things they’ve spent years pushing aside, minimising, or trying to manage on their own.
(03) 7302 8729 View (03) 7302 8729
Photo of Dr Steve Dawson, Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Dr Steve Dawson
Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Online Only
Dr Steve Dawson (Ph.D. MAPS) is a clinical psychologist of over 40 years experience who has a special interest in the assessment and treatment of ADHD in adults. He also treats adults for depression, anxiety and stress using CBT, insight oriented approaches plus Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. His PhD thesis was on the neuropsychology of ADHD. He worked as a clinical neuropsychologist at Canberra Hospital and in academia at the University of Canberra along with private practice. He then worked for a number of years in Sydney before moving his private practice to Melbourne. He now works part time and runs online sessions only.
Dr Steve Dawson (Ph.D. MAPS) is a clinical psychologist of over 40 years experience who has a special interest in the assessment and treatment of ADHD in adults. He also treats adults for depression, anxiety and stress using CBT, insight oriented approaches plus Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. His PhD thesis was on the neuropsychology of ADHD. He worked as a clinical neuropsychologist at Canberra Hospital and in academia at the University of Canberra along with private practice. He then worked for a number of years in Sydney before moving his private practice to Melbourne. He now works part time and runs online sessions only.
0413 065 218 View 0413 065 218
Photo of Paula-Jane Buckland, Counsellor, PACFA
Paula-Jane Buckland
Counsellor, PACFA
Fitzroy North, VIC 3068
Paula-Jane is an accredited mental health counsellor and sex therapist working with individuals and intimate couples; providing care for a diverse range of issues and concerns. The greatest joy of her role is seeing people leaving her care feeling content, lighter and calm within themselves and hope for their future. Paula-Jane is committed to holding a space that is calm accepting trusting safe and welcoming, allowing you to feel at ease and move at a pace comfortable to you. Welcoming all people from different communities, lifestyles and abilities.
Paula-Jane is an accredited mental health counsellor and sex therapist working with individuals and intimate couples; providing care for a diverse range of issues and concerns. The greatest joy of her role is seeing people leaving her care feeling content, lighter and calm within themselves and hope for their future. Paula-Jane is committed to holding a space that is calm accepting trusting safe and welcoming, allowing you to feel at ease and move at a pace comfortable to you. Welcoming all people from different communities, lifestyles and abilities.
0450 797 960 View 0450 797 960
Photo of Sally Boothby, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Sally Boothby
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Elwood, VIC 3184
I have over 25 years' experience of supporting and empowering people in a range of settings. I currently run my own practice in Elwood, focusing on supporting people to improve the quality of their lives. Specialising in (but not limited to) anxiety, addictive behaviours, trauma recovery, family violence, and ADHD, I bring a range of therapeutic techniques to my practice.
I have over 25 years' experience of supporting and empowering people in a range of settings. I currently run my own practice in Elwood, focusing on supporting people to improve the quality of their lives. Specialising in (but not limited to) anxiety, addictive behaviours, trauma recovery, family violence, and ADHD, I bring a range of therapeutic techniques to my practice.
(03) 7003 2881 View (03) 7003 2881
Photo of George Gintilas, Psychotherapist, PACFA
George Gintilas
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Elwood, VIC 3184
I work as a Somatic Body/Subconscious based Psychotherapist. With a deep and strong expertise in helping clients release and heal complex trauma. In private practice since 1991. (Full-time since 1997.) Sessions are 90 mins long to allow deeper, more connected and focused work. There is less talking and more time focused on your internal body with very deep somatic mindfulness work. Help embody more of your spirit into your body. Help free the blocks to your aliveness, feelings, vitality, confidence, joy, love and peace of mind. Release chronic pain and anxiety. Move and feel your body into greater health and wellbeing.
I work as a Somatic Body/Subconscious based Psychotherapist. With a deep and strong expertise in helping clients release and heal complex trauma. In private practice since 1991. (Full-time since 1997.) Sessions are 90 mins long to allow deeper, more connected and focused work. There is less talking and more time focused on your internal body with very deep somatic mindfulness work. Help embody more of your spirit into your body. Help free the blocks to your aliveness, feelings, vitality, confidence, joy, love and peace of mind. Release chronic pain and anxiety. Move and feel your body into greater health and wellbeing.
(03) 7003 2918 View (03) 7003 2918
Photo of Yuying Zhao, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Yuying Zhao
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
2 Endorsed
Mount Waverley, VIC 3149
I am a Chinese-speaking psychotherapist/ couples therapist; most private insurances are accepted. I work with teenagers, adults, couples, and families to overcome issues related to psychological concerns, emotional disorders, personal development, relationship conflicts, and parenting skills. 微信:auxinli 澳洲注册心理咨询师、婚姻伴侣咨询师, 以及催眠治疗师。服务青少年及成人的焦虑、抑郁、厌学、强迫,创伤和情感关系等问题,接受线上和线下咨询。
I am a Chinese-speaking psychotherapist/ couples therapist; most private insurances are accepted. I work with teenagers, adults, couples, and families to overcome issues related to psychological concerns, emotional disorders, personal development, relationship conflicts, and parenting skills. 微信:auxinli 澳洲注册心理咨询师、婚姻伴侣咨询师, 以及催眠治疗师。服务青少年及成人的焦虑、抑郁、厌学、强迫,创伤和情感关系等问题,接受线上和线下咨询。
(03) 8771 4121 View (03) 8771 4121
Photo of Julie Stevens, Psychotherapist, ACA-L3
Julie Stevens
Psychotherapist, ACA-L3
1 Endorsed
Carlton North, VIC 3054
Undertaking therapy is a very personal and meaningful journey—whether you're looking to heal trauma, face relationship struggles, or simply wanting to understand yourself more deeply. The growth that can come from this inner work often not only nurtures your own wellbeing but positively impacts those around you. It’s a genuine honour to walk alongside my clients as they navigate challenges, build more self understanding and unlock deeper inner resilience. My work aims to support gentle reconnection—with self and others—especially where early attachment experiences have shaped current ways of relating.
Undertaking therapy is a very personal and meaningful journey—whether you're looking to heal trauma, face relationship struggles, or simply wanting to understand yourself more deeply. The growth that can come from this inner work often not only nurtures your own wellbeing but positively impacts those around you. It’s a genuine honour to walk alongside my clients as they navigate challenges, build more self understanding and unlock deeper inner resilience. My work aims to support gentle reconnection—with self and others—especially where early attachment experiences have shaped current ways of relating.
(03) 7003 2846 View (03) 7003 2846
Photo of Isabelle Ruiz, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Isabelle Ruiz
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Brunswick, VIC 3056
My practice is informed by interpersonal neurobiology, attachment theory, and psychodynamic theory, with a strong emphasis on trauma-informed care.
I am a relational psychotherapist offering individual and couples therapy in Brunswick, Melbourne. My practice is particularly well suited to people navigating relational or developmental trauma, emotional distress, or a sense of feeling stuck in longstanding patterns. I believe psychotherapy has the potential to be truly transformative, not only in managing symptoms, but in cultivating greater self awareness, agency, emotional freedom, and more connected relationships. This belief is continually reinforced through my clinical work and ongoing training, as well as through my own experience of therapy.
My practice is informed by interpersonal neurobiology, attachment theory, and psychodynamic theory, with a strong emphasis on trauma-informed care.
I am a relational psychotherapist offering individual and couples therapy in Brunswick, Melbourne. My practice is particularly well suited to people navigating relational or developmental trauma, emotional distress, or a sense of feeling stuck in longstanding patterns. I believe psychotherapy has the potential to be truly transformative, not only in managing symptoms, but in cultivating greater self awareness, agency, emotional freedom, and more connected relationships. This belief is continually reinforced through my clinical work and ongoing training, as well as through my own experience of therapy.
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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.