Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Psychologists and Therapists in Bentleigh East, VIC

Photo of Christina Panagopoulos, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Christina Panagopoulos
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Bentleigh East, VIC 3165
I adjust my treatment plan to ensure it is suited to each individual, drawing on practices from modalities such as CBT, mindfulness and ACT.
Hi! I’m Christina from State of Flow Psychology. Navigating life's challenges can feel overwhelming, and I'm here to offer a safe and supportive space for you to explore your experiences. I specialise in helping children, teens and young adults who are struggling with anxiety, mood disorders, adjustment to life transitions, and developing effective coping skills. I also have a deep understanding of neurodivergence and its unique impact. My approach is rooted in compassion and empathy, ensuring you feel heard and understood as we work together to build a path towards greater well-being.
I adjust my treatment plan to ensure it is suited to each individual, drawing on practices from modalities such as CBT, mindfulness and ACT.
Hi! I’m Christina from State of Flow Psychology. Navigating life's challenges can feel overwhelming, and I'm here to offer a safe and supportive space for you to explore your experiences. I specialise in helping children, teens and young adults who are struggling with anxiety, mood disorders, adjustment to life transitions, and developing effective coping skills. I also have a deep understanding of neurodivergence and its unique impact. My approach is rooted in compassion and empathy, ensuring you feel heard and understood as we work together to build a path towards greater well-being.
(03) 8771 5359 View (03) 8771 5359
Photo of Nicola Collins - Kids At Max - Psych, Speech & OT, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Kids At Max - Psych, Speech & OT
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Bentleigh East, VIC 3165
Kids At Max provides counselling and psychological assessments for children and adolescents. We support a wide range of emotional, behavioural and developmental needs through personalised, family-centred care. Appointments are available in clinic, at home, at school and via telehealth, with funding options including NDIS, Medicare, Private Health Insurance and TAC. After an initial assessment, we work with families to create a tailored therapy plan with practical strategies and engaging sessions that support each child’s goals.
Kids At Max provides counselling and psychological assessments for children and adolescents. We support a wide range of emotional, behavioural and developmental needs through personalised, family-centred care. Appointments are available in clinic, at home, at school and via telehealth, with funding options including NDIS, Medicare, Private Health Insurance and TAC. After an initial assessment, we work with families to create a tailored therapy plan with practical strategies and engaging sessions that support each child’s goals.
(03) 8771 4119 View (03) 8771 4119
Photo of Kelly Maltman, Psychologist, MC, PsyBA General
Kelly Maltman
Psychologist, MC, PsyBA General
Bentleigh East, VIC 3165
Kelly is a psychologist with a passion for supporting individuals and families affected by cancer, illness, grief and other life-changing events. She has experience working across the cancer continuum, including diagnosis, active treatment, survivorship, recurrence, palliative care, and bereavement. Kelly understands the complex emotional challenges that can arise at each stage and how these can continue long after medical treatment has ended.
Kelly is a psychologist with a passion for supporting individuals and families affected by cancer, illness, grief and other life-changing events. She has experience working across the cancer continuum, including diagnosis, active treatment, survivorship, recurrence, palliative care, and bereavement. Kelly understands the complex emotional challenges that can arise at each stage and how these can continue long after medical treatment has ended.
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Photo of Tori Orit Brand - Brand Counselling Services, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Brand Counselling Services
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Bentleigh East, VIC 3165
I believe that loving yourself is the foundation for healthy, fulfilling relationships with others. Life can be challenging, and it’s easy to lose your sense of direction, confidence, or self-worth along the way. With over 18 years of experience, I support clients with warmth, empathy, and unconditional understanding, creating a safe space to explore challenges, heal, and grow. Together, we work to help you reconnect with your true self, build self-compassion, and gain the clarity and tools you need to navigate life’s difficulties, and to attain your goals, be they emotional balance, stronger relationships or personal growth.
I believe that loving yourself is the foundation for healthy, fulfilling relationships with others. Life can be challenging, and it’s easy to lose your sense of direction, confidence, or self-worth along the way. With over 18 years of experience, I support clients with warmth, empathy, and unconditional understanding, creating a safe space to explore challenges, heal, and grow. Together, we work to help you reconnect with your true self, build self-compassion, and gain the clarity and tools you need to navigate life’s difficulties, and to attain your goals, be they emotional balance, stronger relationships or personal growth.
(03) 7500 5808 View (03) 7500 5808
Photo of Natalie Miller, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Natalie Miller
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
I use various therapeutic approaches to inform treatment, including Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT).
I am a Clinical Psychologist with experience in both the private and government sectors. I work with adolescents (17 years and older), young adults, and adults, and I’m especially passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
I use various therapeutic approaches to inform treatment, including Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT).
I am a Clinical Psychologist with experience in both the private and government sectors. I work with adolescents (17 years and older), young adults, and adults, and I’m especially passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
(03) 8771 4800 View (03) 8771 4800
Photo of Bianca Lebenholc, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Bianca Lebenholc
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
2 Endorsed
Bentleigh East, VIC 3165
Bianca is a Clinical Psychologist with a passion for helping adolescents and young adults navigate life's challenges. With extensive experience across diverse settings, Bianca has a special interest in supporting the LGBTQIA+ community as well as addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, perfectionism, and OCD. Her warmth and enthusiasm shine through in every session, fostering a welcoming environment where clients feel empowered to explore and grow.
Bianca is a Clinical Psychologist with a passion for helping adolescents and young adults navigate life's challenges. With extensive experience across diverse settings, Bianca has a special interest in supporting the LGBTQIA+ community as well as addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, perfectionism, and OCD. Her warmth and enthusiasm shine through in every session, fostering a welcoming environment where clients feel empowered to explore and grow.
(03) 8771 5049 View (03) 8771 5049
Photo of Chanelle Adam, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Chanelle Adam
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Bentleigh East, VIC 3165
The types of therapies I use are: Internal Family Systems, EMDR, CBT, ACT, Schema Therapy, and Attachment Theory
Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming, but at the heart of therapy is connection - and that’s what I try my best to prioritise in our sessions. I believe therapy shouldn’t feel clinical or detached; it should feel like a conversation with someone who truly sees you. I work specifically with young adults aged 18 - 35, and I have a special interest in working with trauma, attachment difficulties, anxiety disorders, young adults who are experiencing family and relationship difficulties, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and people who are experiencing identity struggles or those just feeling "stuck".
The types of therapies I use are: Internal Family Systems, EMDR, CBT, ACT, Schema Therapy, and Attachment Theory
Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming, but at the heart of therapy is connection - and that’s what I try my best to prioritise in our sessions. I believe therapy shouldn’t feel clinical or detached; it should feel like a conversation with someone who truly sees you. I work specifically with young adults aged 18 - 35, and I have a special interest in working with trauma, attachment difficulties, anxiety disorders, young adults who are experiencing family and relationship difficulties, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and people who are experiencing identity struggles or those just feeling "stuck".
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Photo of The Mind Clan - The Mind Clan, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
The Mind Clan
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Bentleigh East, VIC 3165
The Mind Clan Psychology is a warm, inclusive psychology practice designed specifically for young adults aged 18-35. We understand that the journey to self-healing can be complex, and we’re here to support you with authenticity, humor, and connection. Our approach is deeply human-centered, we prioritize creating a space where you feel safe, seen, and heard! Whether you're struggling with anxiety, trauma, identity and LGBTQIA+ exploration, life transitions, or family/relationship challenges, our psychologists bring a compassionate and playful energy to help you explore your experiences without judgment.
The Mind Clan Psychology is a warm, inclusive psychology practice designed specifically for young adults aged 18-35. We understand that the journey to self-healing can be complex, and we’re here to support you with authenticity, humor, and connection. Our approach is deeply human-centered, we prioritize creating a space where you feel safe, seen, and heard! Whether you're struggling with anxiety, trauma, identity and LGBTQIA+ exploration, life transitions, or family/relationship challenges, our psychologists bring a compassionate and playful energy to help you explore your experiences without judgment.
(03) 9070 5415 View (03) 9070 5415
Photo of Shanilka Heath - Nirvana Psychology , Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Nirvana Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I’m Shanilka, a registered psychologist and founder of Nirvana Psychology which is located in Oakleigh. I provide therapy to individuals across Melbourne, with Telehealth available Australia-wide. I work with adolescents and adults, from complex concerns to NDIS, to everyday challenges that come with work, relationships, identity, stress, or major life transitions. My approach to therapy is grounded in patience, compassion, and deep respect for each person’s unique journey. Born and raised in Australia with a proud Sri Lankan heritage, I bring a nuanced understanding of multicultural identity and cross-cultural awareness.
I’m Shanilka, a registered psychologist and founder of Nirvana Psychology which is located in Oakleigh. I provide therapy to individuals across Melbourne, with Telehealth available Australia-wide. I work with adolescents and adults, from complex concerns to NDIS, to everyday challenges that come with work, relationships, identity, stress, or major life transitions. My approach to therapy is grounded in patience, compassion, and deep respect for each person’s unique journey. Born and raised in Australia with a proud Sri Lankan heritage, I bring a nuanced understanding of multicultural identity and cross-cultural awareness.
(03) 8771 5863 View (03) 8771 5863
Photo of Vanessa Potts - Inner Beacon Counselling and Psychotherapy, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Inner Beacon Counselling and Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
3 Endorsed
Online Only
You may be struggling with a specific issue and have been for a while. Or you may be going through a rough patch and are uncovering new and puzzling emotions. A previously happy relationship no longer feels right. Your approach to parenting suddenly feels like it is failing. Maybe you are mid life and finding you no longer recognise yourself. Life just feels overwhelming and getting out of bed is hard. It's not uncommon to feel a little lost and isolated in your life, and unsure how to move forward. Anxiety, depression, low self-esteem can be part of that experience.
You may be struggling with a specific issue and have been for a while. Or you may be going through a rough patch and are uncovering new and puzzling emotions. A previously happy relationship no longer feels right. Your approach to parenting suddenly feels like it is failing. Maybe you are mid life and finding you no longer recognise yourself. Life just feels overwhelming and getting out of bed is hard. It's not uncommon to feel a little lost and isolated in your life, and unsure how to move forward. Anxiety, depression, low self-esteem can be part of that experience.
(03) 8771 4232 View (03) 8771 4232
Photo of Kenny Dao, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Kenny Dao
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I am trained in multiple modalities (i.e. CBT, DBT, EMDR, ERP, Schema and ACT) and enjoy working with complex presentations.
Welcome to Peach Psychology. I am a registered psychologist, and have practiced across a range of diverse settings since 2019. With my previous therapeutic experience spanning across different age groups, I provide support to children (5+), adolescents, adults and elderly individuals, focusing on assisting each client to identify and work towards their own personal, individual goals.
I am trained in multiple modalities (i.e. CBT, DBT, EMDR, ERP, Schema and ACT) and enjoy working with complex presentations.
Welcome to Peach Psychology. I am a registered psychologist, and have practiced across a range of diverse settings since 2019. With my previous therapeutic experience spanning across different age groups, I provide support to children (5+), adolescents, adults and elderly individuals, focusing on assisting each client to identify and work towards their own personal, individual goals.
(03) 8771 5313 View (03) 8771 5313
Photo of Mel Sahin, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Mel Sahin
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I use evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), while recognising that everyone’s experiences are unique.
You might be feeling overwhelmed, stuck in your thoughts, or having trouble switching off. Perhaps anxiety is feeling big, your mood feels low, or everyday tasks feel more difficult than they should. You might also feel like your mind is always busy, scattered, or working against you rather than with you. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, and those with ADHD or autism who want to better understand themselves and feel more in control of their lives. Together, we can understand your experiences— whether it's managing emotions, reducing overthinking, building confidence, or navigating daily life.
I use evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), while recognising that everyone’s experiences are unique.
You might be feeling overwhelmed, stuck in your thoughts, or having trouble switching off. Perhaps anxiety is feeling big, your mood feels low, or everyday tasks feel more difficult than they should. You might also feel like your mind is always busy, scattered, or working against you rather than with you. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, and those with ADHD or autism who want to better understand themselves and feel more in control of their lives. Together, we can understand your experiences— whether it's managing emotions, reducing overthinking, building confidence, or navigating daily life.
(03) 8771 5920 View (03) 8771 5920
Photo of Jeremy Neumann, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Jeremy Neumann
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Serves Area
He has a strong grounding in humanistic psych & mindfulness based approaches, completing further training in Acceptance Commitment Therapy ( ACT), and also in EMDR for working with trauma.
I take a relational approach to therapy, working closely with you to explore the core of your presenting issues. By fostering a supportive and empathetic environment, I help you uncover underlying patterns and gain deeper insights. Through humanistic and existential psychology frameworks, I guide you towards meaningful healing and personal growth.
He has a strong grounding in humanistic psych & mindfulness based approaches, completing further training in Acceptance Commitment Therapy ( ACT), and also in EMDR for working with trauma.
I take a relational approach to therapy, working closely with you to explore the core of your presenting issues. By fostering a supportive and empathetic environment, I help you uncover underlying patterns and gain deeper insights. Through humanistic and existential psychology frameworks, I guide you towards meaningful healing and personal growth.
(03) 7003 2136 View (03) 7003 2136
Photo of Kat O'Mara, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Kat O'Mara
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Serves Area
You’ve always been the one who holds it all together: for your children, your partner, your family. Now you’re quietly falling apart. Perhaps you’re coping with the pain of estrangement, the aftermath of a controlling or emotionally abusive relationship, or the exhaustion of trying to keep everyone else afloat while ignoring your own needs. On the outside, you seem capable; inside, you feel anxious, alone, or disconnected. The old strategies like perfectionism, people-pleasing and staying silent aren’t working anymore.
You’ve always been the one who holds it all together: for your children, your partner, your family. Now you’re quietly falling apart. Perhaps you’re coping with the pain of estrangement, the aftermath of a controlling or emotionally abusive relationship, or the exhaustion of trying to keep everyone else afloat while ignoring your own needs. On the outside, you seem capable; inside, you feel anxious, alone, or disconnected. The old strategies like perfectionism, people-pleasing and staying silent aren’t working anymore.
(03) 7500 5605 View (03) 7500 5605
Photo of Maria Dhroso, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Ed. Psych.
Maria Dhroso
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Ed. Psych.
Serves Area
Maria provides counselling and intervention for neurodivergent and neurotypical children, young people and families (4 years+). Maria uses skills-based and cognitive-based approaches, as well as relational approaches, using Child Centre Play Therapy. Archie, a lovely Accredited Therapy dog can also be included in sessions. Support is provided for a wide range of common child and adolescent issues, including anxiety, depression, perfectionism, anger and others. Maria loves to work with neurodivergent young people in neuroaffirming ways to explore their identity. Maria also works with parents to help support them with parenting.
Maria provides counselling and intervention for neurodivergent and neurotypical children, young people and families (4 years+). Maria uses skills-based and cognitive-based approaches, as well as relational approaches, using Child Centre Play Therapy. Archie, a lovely Accredited Therapy dog can also be included in sessions. Support is provided for a wide range of common child and adolescent issues, including anxiety, depression, perfectionism, anger and others. Maria loves to work with neurodivergent young people in neuroaffirming ways to explore their identity. Maria also works with parents to help support them with parenting.
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Photo of Kate Wallace-Boyd, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Kate Wallace-Boyd
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I tailor therapy to your unique needs, using evidence-based approaches like ACT and CBT.
It’s not always easy to ask for support, especially when you’ve been holding it all together for so long. You might be feeling anxious, exhausted, or emotionally drained. Maybe you’re managing a chronic illness, feeling lost in a big life transition, burnt out from work or study, or questioning who you are and what matters to you now. Even if you're someone who usually copes well, it might feel like things just aren’t working anymore. You might be craving a space that feels calm and affirming, where you can take a breath, feel understood, and begin to figure things out at your own pace, with someone who really gets it.
I tailor therapy to your unique needs, using evidence-based approaches like ACT and CBT.
It’s not always easy to ask for support, especially when you’ve been holding it all together for so long. You might be feeling anxious, exhausted, or emotionally drained. Maybe you’re managing a chronic illness, feeling lost in a big life transition, burnt out from work or study, or questioning who you are and what matters to you now. Even if you're someone who usually copes well, it might feel like things just aren’t working anymore. You might be craving a space that feels calm and affirming, where you can take a breath, feel understood, and begin to figure things out at your own pace, with someone who really gets it.
0466 050 552 View 0466 050 552
Photo of Dr Megan Dobbie, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Megan Dobbie
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Often people present to my services and are unsure of what they want, need, or how a psychologist can help. It is my job to make a space for you to explore what may help, and for me to use my expertise to put a "scaffold" around you as we navigate the next steps together. I work with all commonly experienced conditions such as depression, anxiety, stress, those experiencing major transitions in life, and have significant expertise working with trauma presentations in emergency services personnel. It is humbling and a priviledge to be able to do the work I do, and have people trust in my care when they are in need of support.
Often people present to my services and are unsure of what they want, need, or how a psychologist can help. It is my job to make a space for you to explore what may help, and for me to use my expertise to put a "scaffold" around you as we navigate the next steps together. I work with all commonly experienced conditions such as depression, anxiety, stress, those experiencing major transitions in life, and have significant expertise working with trauma presentations in emergency services personnel. It is humbling and a priviledge to be able to do the work I do, and have people trust in my care when they are in need of support.
(03) 8771 4821 View (03) 8771 4821
Photo of Jonathan Shai, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Jonathan Shai
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
They want practical strategies to manage stress, improve communication and relationships, and achieve goals like school success, self- acceptance, employment and being better understood by those around them.
As a registered psychologist with over 6 years’ experience, I specialise in empowering neurodivergent youth with autism, ADHD, or anxiety. I offer tailored, neuro-affirming therapy to build resilience, capacity, communication, and self- acceptance, helping clients and families thrive.
They want practical strategies to manage stress, improve communication and relationships, and achieve goals like school success, self- acceptance, employment and being better understood by those around them.
As a registered psychologist with over 6 years’ experience, I specialise in empowering neurodivergent youth with autism, ADHD, or anxiety. I offer tailored, neuro-affirming therapy to build resilience, capacity, communication, and self- acceptance, helping clients and families thrive.
(03) 8771 5720 View (03) 8771 5720
Photo of Priscilla Louise Jones, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Priscilla Louise Jones
Counsellor, ACA-L1
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have an integrative approach and use practices from Emotionally Focused Therapy, Polyvagal Theory, Internal Family Systems, Authentic Relating, Non-Violent Communication, with knowledge of the Gottman Method, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behaviour therapy.
I work with individuals and couples, supporting deeper connection and understanding. My approach is experiential; helping you feel closeness in the room and take practical tools home. If ongoing couples therapy feels hard to commit to, I offer full or half day intensive workshops focused on topics like love languages, intimacy, touch, communication, and conflict repair. A powerful option for couples wanting meaningful change in a short time.
I have an integrative approach and use practices from Emotionally Focused Therapy, Polyvagal Theory, Internal Family Systems, Authentic Relating, Non-Violent Communication, with knowledge of the Gottman Method, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behaviour therapy.
I work with individuals and couples, supporting deeper connection and understanding. My approach is experiential; helping you feel closeness in the room and take practical tools home. If ongoing couples therapy feels hard to commit to, I offer full or half day intensive workshops focused on topics like love languages, intimacy, touch, communication, and conflict repair. A powerful option for couples wanting meaningful change in a short time.
(03) 8771 5632 View (03) 8771 5632
Photo of Dr Anastasiya Suetin, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Anastasiya Suetin
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
As a Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of experience working in a variety of settings, I am passionate about supporting neurodiversity across the lifespan, with a particular interest in providing high-quality clinical assessments that bring clarity and understanding. Whether working with children, adolescents or adults, I aim to create a safe, respectful space where differences are recognised and celebrated rather than pathologised. I believe that a thoughtful assessment can be a powerful turning point, helping individuals and families better understand strengths, challenges and the pathways forward.
As a Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of experience working in a variety of settings, I am passionate about supporting neurodiversity across the lifespan, with a particular interest in providing high-quality clinical assessments that bring clarity and understanding. Whether working with children, adolescents or adults, I aim to create a safe, respectful space where differences are recognised and celebrated rather than pathologised. I believe that a thoughtful assessment can be a powerful turning point, helping individuals and families better understand strengths, challenges and the pathways forward.
(03) 8203 5419 View (03) 8203 5419

See more therapy options for Bentleigh East

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.