Art Therapy Psychologists and Therapists in Balwyn, VIC

Photo of Faith Maccar, Psychologist, PsyBA Prov
Faith Maccar
Psychologist, PsyBA Prov
Balwyn, VIC 3103
Hi there, I’m Faith and I’m an AHPRA registered provisional psychologist. As a therapist currently undergoing a doctoral degree, I am excited to bring the best, evidenced-based tools and interventions to clients from various walks of life, seeking mental health support. Clients, young and old, are consistently met with warmth, understanding, care and treatment tailored to their therapeutic goals.
Hi there, I’m Faith and I’m an AHPRA registered provisional psychologist. As a therapist currently undergoing a doctoral degree, I am excited to bring the best, evidenced-based tools and interventions to clients from various walks of life, seeking mental health support. Clients, young and old, are consistently met with warmth, understanding, care and treatment tailored to their therapeutic goals.
(03) 7003 2408 View (03) 7003 2408
Photo of Rena Kouppa, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Rena Kouppa
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I believe in treating clients with empathy, understanding, and kindness, offering support and compassion during their most challenging times. I ensure they feel heard and valued as they navigate their emotional journey. By introducing glimpses of humour, I help bring lightness to their lives, making the healing process more approachable. Together, we embrace the transformative power of kindness, evidence-based care, and a little humour to foster resilience and lasting positive change.
I believe in treating clients with empathy, understanding, and kindness, offering support and compassion during their most challenging times. I ensure they feel heard and valued as they navigate their emotional journey. By introducing glimpses of humour, I help bring lightness to their lives, making the healing process more approachable. Together, we embrace the transformative power of kindness, evidence-based care, and a little humour to foster resilience and lasting positive change.
(03) 7003 2936 View (03) 7003 2936
Photo of Nerolie Ross, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Nerolie Ross
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Supporting adolescents, young adults and adults when they're experiencing stress, anxiety, depression and other related issues, causes can be triggered by relationship issues, school and workplace bullying, lack of self-identity confidence, attachment challenges, as well as worries about future direction, self-doubt, lack of self-esteem, motivation and especially more recently lockdown impacts due to COVID. Additionally leveraging from 25 years in human resources, I also provide guidance for adolescents, young adults and adults in navigating their career pathways and how to negotiate working relationships in the most affective way.
Supporting adolescents, young adults and adults when they're experiencing stress, anxiety, depression and other related issues, causes can be triggered by relationship issues, school and workplace bullying, lack of self-identity confidence, attachment challenges, as well as worries about future direction, self-doubt, lack of self-esteem, motivation and especially more recently lockdown impacts due to COVID. Additionally leveraging from 25 years in human resources, I also provide guidance for adolescents, young adults and adults in navigating their career pathways and how to negotiate working relationships in the most affective way.
(03) 7003 2031 View (03) 7003 2031
Photo of Weiyu Guan, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Weiyu Guan
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
We practice the art of belonging to our vibrant self and world.
Love and Grief. Loneliness. School Can’t. Power Struggles. Doubt. Disenchantment. Impoverishment. Cultures. Identities. Mind-Body Connection. Spiritual Emergence. These are my jams. I work with all ages and faces in beautiful spaces. I want you to get a lot out of therapy, not just a bandaid or another set of textbook rules/strategies to get by, but a way of life that is deeply congruent and satisfying to who you truly are, as well as your own portable home of what I call the 7 Friends of Universal Human Needs: Safety, Support, Truth, Freedom/Creative Expression, Value and Worth, Beauty, and Vibrant Connection to All of Life.
We practice the art of belonging to our vibrant self and world.
Love and Grief. Loneliness. School Can’t. Power Struggles. Doubt. Disenchantment. Impoverishment. Cultures. Identities. Mind-Body Connection. Spiritual Emergence. These are my jams. I work with all ages and faces in beautiful spaces. I want you to get a lot out of therapy, not just a bandaid or another set of textbook rules/strategies to get by, but a way of life that is deeply congruent and satisfying to who you truly are, as well as your own portable home of what I call the 7 Friends of Universal Human Needs: Safety, Support, Truth, Freedom/Creative Expression, Value and Worth, Beauty, and Vibrant Connection to All of Life.
(03) 7003 2318 View (03) 7003 2318
Photo of Nikaela Pennisi, Psychotherapist, MA, ANZAP
Nikaela Pennisi
Psychotherapist, MA, ANZAP
Serves Area
Using art, play, drama, stories, and movement, I support emotional regulation, confidence, social connection, and identity.
Many of the people I work with are children, adolescents, and adults navigating big emotions, life transitions, or relational challenges. They may feel overwhelmed, anxious, or disconnected, and sometimes find it hard to put their feelings into words. I take a trauma-informed, neuro-affirming approach that honours each person’s unique way of thinking, feeling, and relating. My work supports clients to express themselves, regulate emotions, and reconnect with creativity, joy, and self-trust.
Using art, play, drama, stories, and movement, I support emotional regulation, confidence, social connection, and identity.
Many of the people I work with are children, adolescents, and adults navigating big emotions, life transitions, or relational challenges. They may feel overwhelmed, anxious, or disconnected, and sometimes find it hard to put their feelings into words. I take a trauma-informed, neuro-affirming approach that honours each person’s unique way of thinking, feeling, and relating. My work supports clients to express themselves, regulate emotions, and reconnect with creativity, joy, and self-trust.
(03) 9853 9022 View (03) 9853 9022

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Michal B Mainzer, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Michal B Mainzer
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Caulfield North, VIC 3161
My approach combines Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) with creative art therapy techniques, offering both practical tools and opportunities for deeper emotional expression.
I provide a warm, supportive space where people can explore their thoughts and emotions without judgment. My approach is collaborative and focused on helping clients gain insight, build practical coping strategies, and reconnect with their strengths. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, stress, life transitions, and relationship challenges, tailoring therapy to each person’s unique needs and goals. Seeking support can be a big step, and I’m here to walk alongside you in that process.
My approach combines Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) with creative art therapy techniques, offering both practical tools and opportunities for deeper emotional expression.
I provide a warm, supportive space where people can explore their thoughts and emotions without judgment. My approach is collaborative and focused on helping clients gain insight, build practical coping strategies, and reconnect with their strengths. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, stress, life transitions, and relationship challenges, tailoring therapy to each person’s unique needs and goals. Seeking support can be a big step, and I’m here to walk alongside you in that process.
0466 098 140 View 0466 098 140
Photo of Dr Shalya Hirschson, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Dr Shalya Hirschson
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Bentleigh, VIC 3204
As a psychologist, I feel privileged, to observe & work with the difficult life experiences, which lead individuals to engage in therapy. I believe that therapy is a form of self-exploration & learning. In sessions, I use safe, containing ways to help clients process their thoughts and feelings, gaining insight and understanding, so that they can navigate the world around them, with a sense of confidence, purpose and hope. I help clients develop skills to manage their discomfort, pain, uncertainty and fear, to facilitate change in their lives and improve their overall sense of well-being.
As a psychologist, I feel privileged, to observe & work with the difficult life experiences, which lead individuals to engage in therapy. I believe that therapy is a form of self-exploration & learning. In sessions, I use safe, containing ways to help clients process their thoughts and feelings, gaining insight and understanding, so that they can navigate the world around them, with a sense of confidence, purpose and hope. I help clients develop skills to manage their discomfort, pain, uncertainty and fear, to facilitate change in their lives and improve their overall sense of well-being.
(03) 9988 1271 View (03) 9988 1271
Photo of Hannah Woods, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Hannah Woods
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Cranbourne, VIC 3977
Hi, I’m Hannah, a counsellor and psychotherapist passionate about supporting you through life's difficulties. Whether you’re feeling stuck, experiencing grief, navigating relationships, or looking to deepen self-awareness, I provide a safe space for you to be heard and tell your story. I take a humanistic, strengths-based, and holistic approach, helping you reconnect with your inner resources and cultivate resilience. Together we can work together to help you feel empowered, self-aware, and ready to take meaningful steps towards a fulfilling life. I use a variety of tools to support you: mindfulness, somatic therapy, focusing & ACT
Hi, I’m Hannah, a counsellor and psychotherapist passionate about supporting you through life's difficulties. Whether you’re feeling stuck, experiencing grief, navigating relationships, or looking to deepen self-awareness, I provide a safe space for you to be heard and tell your story. I take a humanistic, strengths-based, and holistic approach, helping you reconnect with your inner resources and cultivate resilience. Together we can work together to help you feel empowered, self-aware, and ready to take meaningful steps towards a fulfilling life. I use a variety of tools to support you: mindfulness, somatic therapy, focusing & ACT
(03) 5907 5401 View (03) 5907 5401
Photo of Samantha Shepherd - Ability To Thrive Counselling and Life Coaching, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Ability To Thrive Counselling and Life Coaching
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
Welcome, I'm Samantha a registered Counsellor, Psychosocial Recovery Coach and Supervisor offering support both via telehealth and face to face. My approach to counselling is bound in empathy and compassion through which I provide a safe, nonjudgemental space working collaboratively to encourage and empower clients to navigate challenges in their life and achieve their goals. Whether you're dealing with addiction, anxiety, trauma, disability, carer burnout, emotional regulation, relationship challenges, work related stress, or just seeking personal growth, I'm here to support you on your journey every step of the way.
Welcome, I'm Samantha a registered Counsellor, Psychosocial Recovery Coach and Supervisor offering support both via telehealth and face to face. My approach to counselling is bound in empathy and compassion through which I provide a safe, nonjudgemental space working collaboratively to encourage and empower clients to navigate challenges in their life and achieve their goals. Whether you're dealing with addiction, anxiety, trauma, disability, carer burnout, emotional regulation, relationship challenges, work related stress, or just seeking personal growth, I'm here to support you on your journey every step of the way.
(07) 3477 9563 View (07) 3477 9563
Photo of Makakhiwe N Masuku - Growing Small Counselling, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Growing Small Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Therapy with Growing Small Counselling is relational, respectful, and at your pace. Offering trauma-informed, culturally responsive counselling experiences that honours where you’ve been and helps you explore where you’d like to go. Growing Small Counselling, works with individuals 18+, of all cultural and intersecting backgrounds.
Therapy with Growing Small Counselling is relational, respectful, and at your pace. Offering trauma-informed, culturally responsive counselling experiences that honours where you’ve been and helps you explore where you’d like to go. Growing Small Counselling, works with individuals 18+, of all cultural and intersecting backgrounds.
(03) 7302 2184 View (03) 7302 2184
Photo of Kaz Mitchell, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Kaz Mitchell
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Online Only
From time-to-time we all have issues going on in our lives that feel overwhelming, confusing and too hard to deal with on our own. At the same time, for various reasons, it often feels as if there is no one there we feel safe enough with whom we can share our burdens. Whether it's a messy divorce, the death of a loved one, a traumatic experience, an existential crisis about the meaning of life, or a difficult decision that has to be made - it can be hard to figure out what to do or who to turn to for guidance.
From time-to-time we all have issues going on in our lives that feel overwhelming, confusing and too hard to deal with on our own. At the same time, for various reasons, it often feels as if there is no one there we feel safe enough with whom we can share our burdens. Whether it's a messy divorce, the death of a loved one, a traumatic experience, an existential crisis about the meaning of life, or a difficult decision that has to be made - it can be hard to figure out what to do or who to turn to for guidance.
(03) 6146 1629 View (03) 6146 1629
Photo of Maja Schulenburg - Mind & Heart Matters Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Mind & Heart Matters Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Mornington, VIC 3931
As a registered psychologist, I support individuals experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, and emotional difficulties, as well as those navigating life transitions and complex relationships. Clients often seek my help when they feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure how to move forward, and I provide a safe, respectful space to explore these challenges at a manageable pace.
As a registered psychologist, I support individuals experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, and emotional difficulties, as well as those navigating life transitions and complex relationships. Clients often seek my help when they feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure how to move forward, and I provide a safe, respectful space to explore these challenges at a manageable pace.
(03) 5909 9305 View (03) 5909 9305
Photo of Shuwana Shiraze - Whole-Hearted Relationships, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Whole-Hearted Relationships
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Melbourne, VIC 3000
Are you and your partner feeling more like housemates than companions, struggling to connect, stuck in the same painful cycles, or living with a quiet disconnection no one else can see? Perhaps intimacy feels out of reach, or you’ve moved through relationships searching for closeness but never quite finding safety. If you’re wondering whether the bond can be restored, don’t wait until distance grows deeper. Whether you’re working on your relationship or exploring recurring patterns on your own, I’m here to walk alongside you. Reaching out takes courage, and you deserve the support to create the love you long for.
Are you and your partner feeling more like housemates than companions, struggling to connect, stuck in the same painful cycles, or living with a quiet disconnection no one else can see? Perhaps intimacy feels out of reach, or you’ve moved through relationships searching for closeness but never quite finding safety. If you’re wondering whether the bond can be restored, don’t wait until distance grows deeper. Whether you’re working on your relationship or exploring recurring patterns on your own, I’m here to walk alongside you. Reaching out takes courage, and you deserve the support to create the love you long for.
(03) 8797 2621 View (03) 8797 2621
Photo of Sally Tyrrell - Creative Healing counselling & art therapy, Social Worker, AMHSW
Creative Healing counselling & art therapy
Social Worker, AMHSW
2 Endorsed
Preston, VIC 3072
Combining talk therapy, mindfulness, and creative approaches like art therapy, I tailor sessions to your unique needs.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to start? Maybe anxiety, depression, or ADHD is holding you back. Perhaps you’re a parent watching your child struggle with emotions or social challenges, or you’re juggling work and life and feeling burnt out. You’re here because you want something to change. You want clarity, balance, and tools that actually help. You want to feel confident, connected, and in control of your life. Whatever your goals—emotional regulation, better relationships, or finding calm in the chaos—I’m here to help you achieve them.
Combining talk therapy, mindfulness, and creative approaches like art therapy, I tailor sessions to your unique needs.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to start? Maybe anxiety, depression, or ADHD is holding you back. Perhaps you’re a parent watching your child struggle with emotions or social challenges, or you’re juggling work and life and feeling burnt out. You’re here because you want something to change. You want clarity, balance, and tools that actually help. You want to feel confident, connected, and in control of your life. Whatever your goals—emotional regulation, better relationships, or finding calm in the chaos—I’m here to help you achieve them.
(03) 9068 5833 View (03) 9068 5833
Photo of Asia Swida, Counsellor, MA, AASW
Asia Swida
Counsellor, MA, AASW
Brunswick East, VIC 3057
I offer online and in-person counselling services to individuals, couples and families. I see counselling as deeply collaborative work, where I seek to understand the unique aspects of each person’s lived experience, tailoring my approach specifically to their needs. I value the co-creation of a warm and respectful therapeutic relationship, centring safety and empowerment. I acknowledge that we all resist the impacts of oppressive systems in unique and creative ways. I work with people towards uncovering the many skills, values, commitments and abilities that might allow for change and healing.
I offer online and in-person counselling services to individuals, couples and families. I see counselling as deeply collaborative work, where I seek to understand the unique aspects of each person’s lived experience, tailoring my approach specifically to their needs. I value the co-creation of a warm and respectful therapeutic relationship, centring safety and empowerment. I acknowledge that we all resist the impacts of oppressive systems in unique and creative ways. I work with people towards uncovering the many skills, values, commitments and abilities that might allow for change and healing.
(02) 5120 0120 View (02) 5120 0120
Photo of Yumi Sento - Speak Culture, Counsellor, MC
Speak Culture
Counsellor, MC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Advanced Diploma in Relationship Counselling; Certificate III Early Childhood Education, Expressive Art Therapy
Yumi is a compassionate and culturally attuned mental health counsellor with a background in Psychology and Counselling. With lived experience in Japan, Indonesia, and Australia, she understands the unique challenges faced by individuals adjusting to life in Australia. Yumi supports adults (25–45) dealing with childhood trauma, poor boundaries, people-pleasing, anxiety, perfectionism, and relationship stress. Her clients often feel stuck between cultural expectations and personal needs. Yumi offers a warm, client-centred space to heal and grow.
Advanced Diploma in Relationship Counselling; Certificate III Early Childhood Education, Expressive Art Therapy
Yumi is a compassionate and culturally attuned mental health counsellor with a background in Psychology and Counselling. With lived experience in Japan, Indonesia, and Australia, she understands the unique challenges faced by individuals adjusting to life in Australia. Yumi supports adults (25–45) dealing with childhood trauma, poor boundaries, people-pleasing, anxiety, perfectionism, and relationship stress. Her clients often feel stuck between cultural expectations and personal needs. Yumi offers a warm, client-centred space to heal and grow.
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Photo of Anne Vitharana, Counsellor, MSc, PACFA
Anne Vitharana
Counsellor, MSc, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, my name is Anne and I want to hear your story, heart 2 heart. If you are feeling down or struggling to keep up with life demands, challenged with relationships, feels like you are stuck at where you are in life, or if you are navigating issues involving recovery from past trauma, I am here to support you; all while providing a non-judgmental, gentle and professionally qualified therapeutic environment.
Hi, my name is Anne and I want to hear your story, heart 2 heart. If you are feeling down or struggling to keep up with life demands, challenged with relationships, feels like you are stuck at where you are in life, or if you are navigating issues involving recovery from past trauma, I am here to support you; all while providing a non-judgmental, gentle and professionally qualified therapeutic environment.
(02) 5133 6894 View (02) 5133 6894
Photo of Deborah Cameron, Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
Deborah Cameron
Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Brighton East, VIC 3187
Art therapy and creative processes are often used to support expression, helping you move forward in a way that feels safe, empowering, and true to you, at your own pace.
You may be seeking support through individual therapy or by joining a small supportive group where you can feel safe, understood, and accepted. For some, this includes healing from trauma related to sexual violence, incest, or other forms of sexual, physical, or psychological abuse, which may still shape how safe the world and relationships feel. You may also be neurodivergent—living with ADHD, autism, OCD, or dyslexia—or navigating anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder and feeling misunderstood or exhausted from trying to meet expectations that do not align with who you truly are and needing a safe and confidential place.
Art therapy and creative processes are often used to support expression, helping you move forward in a way that feels safe, empowering, and true to you, at your own pace.
You may be seeking support through individual therapy or by joining a small supportive group where you can feel safe, understood, and accepted. For some, this includes healing from trauma related to sexual violence, incest, or other forms of sexual, physical, or psychological abuse, which may still shape how safe the world and relationships feel. You may also be neurodivergent—living with ADHD, autism, OCD, or dyslexia—or navigating anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder and feeling misunderstood or exhausted from trying to meet expectations that do not align with who you truly are and needing a safe and confidential place.
(03) 7003 2799 View (03) 7003 2799
Photo of Sayali Shridhar Sawant, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Sayali Shridhar Sawant
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Online Only
Many of the people I work with are navigating big changes in their lives — adjusting to a new culture, managing early parenthood, coping with anxiety or low mood, or supporting a young person through difficult times. My clients often feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure of how to ask for help, yet they hold a quiet hope for change. They want to feel understood, rebuild a sense of safety and belonging, and find practical ways to care for their wellbeing and that of their families.
Many of the people I work with are navigating big changes in their lives — adjusting to a new culture, managing early parenthood, coping with anxiety or low mood, or supporting a young person through difficult times. My clients often feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure of how to ask for help, yet they hold a quiet hope for change. They want to feel understood, rebuild a sense of safety and belonging, and find practical ways to care for their wellbeing and that of their families.
(03) 8771 5306 View (03) 8771 5306
Photo of Gloria Guo, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Gloria Guo
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Online Only
You might be someone who holds a lot inside. On the outside, life continues with work, relationships, responsibilities, while you may feel internally overwhelmed, anxious, disconnected, or tired in a way that rest doesn’t seem to fix. I am experienced working with people who have past experiences that still live in the body, patterns that repeat in relationships, or a sense of not fully belonging. I’m especially passionate about supporting people from a migrant background. I deeply understand the challenges from cultural expectations, unspoken family dynamics, or emotional experiences that do not fit into the mainstream culture.
You might be someone who holds a lot inside. On the outside, life continues with work, relationships, responsibilities, while you may feel internally overwhelmed, anxious, disconnected, or tired in a way that rest doesn’t seem to fix. I am experienced working with people who have past experiences that still live in the body, patterns that repeat in relationships, or a sense of not fully belonging. I’m especially passionate about supporting people from a migrant background. I deeply understand the challenges from cultural expectations, unspoken family dynamics, or emotional experiences that do not fit into the mainstream culture.
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Art Therapy Therapists
How does art therapy work?
The process of making art allows people to express themselves. Art-making can take many forms, such as painting, collage, or sculpting. The therapist asks questions that the work elicits, such as how the person felt while creating their piece, or if any memories surfaced that they can discuss. The therapist will then work with the patient to process their experience, understand themselves better, and work toward change.

Does art therapy help with trauma?
Art therapy can be a valuable treatment option for those suffering from trauma. Traumatic experiences such as combat, rape, or childhood abuse can be so painful that articulating them can be too scary or painful; creating art allows people to express themselves without words, and tell their story in a different way. The physical nature of creating art can also help people feel rooted in the body, which may benefit those who feel disconnected from their body in the aftermath of trauma.

How long does art therapy last?
The duration of art therapy varies, but a common length for treatment is 10 to 15 weekly sessions. Some people may see improvement in just a few weeks, while others may choose to remain in therapy longer term. Patients should periodically discuss their goals with their therapist to make sure the two are aligned on process and progress.

What are the limitations of art therapy?
Art therapy is helpful for many people, but a limitation is that it doesn’t have as robust an evidence base as other forms of therapy, such as cognitive behavioural therapy or acceptance and commitment therapy. The evidence on art therapy is mixed; some research demonstrates its benefits, while other research suggests that it has little impact on patients.