Psychodynamic Psychologists and Therapists in Bentleigh East, VIC

Gabrielle Volovsky
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Online Only
I blend person-centred therapy with CBT/DBT, mindfulness, psychodynamic insight, parts (IFS-informed) work and body-based nervous system regulation.
I’m a PACFA-registered counsellor, and founder of Becoming On Point. I specialise in trauma-informed psychotherapy, and support adults navigating anxiety, low mood, burnout, relationship strain, self-worth, AOD challenges, trauma-related patterns, grief, stress and life transitions. Some clients come because they feel stuck or overwhelmed; others appear high-functioning but feel stretched underneath. My approach is warm, practical and collaborative, helping clients better understand their patterns, regulate emotions and move toward sustainable change.
I blend person-centred therapy with CBT/DBT, mindfulness, psychodynamic insight, parts (IFS-informed) work and body-based nervous system regulation.
I’m a PACFA-registered counsellor, and founder of Becoming On Point. I specialise in trauma-informed psychotherapy, and support adults navigating anxiety, low mood, burnout, relationship strain, self-worth, AOD challenges, trauma-related patterns, grief, stress and life transitions. Some clients come because they feel stuck or overwhelmed; others appear high-functioning but feel stretched underneath. My approach is warm, practical and collaborative, helping clients better understand their patterns, regulate emotions and move toward sustainable change.
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Dimity Cowell
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Dimity is a warm and collaborative psychologist who is passionate about supporting children, adolescents, and their families. She has worked across community organisations, public mental health, and schools, and brings a gentle, neuro-affirming approach to all her therapeutic work. Dimity is experienced in supporting young people with trauma histories, low mood, anxiety, school refusal, eating and feeding challenges, and a wide range of behavioural and emotional differences.
Dimity is a warm and collaborative psychologist who is passionate about supporting children, adolescents, and their families. She has worked across community organisations, public mental health, and schools, and brings a gentle, neuro-affirming approach to all her therapeutic work. Dimity is experienced in supporting young people with trauma histories, low mood, anxiety, school refusal, eating and feeding challenges, and a wide range of behavioural and emotional differences.
(03) 7500 5306 View (03) 7500 5306
Tim Clark
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My clients often are looking for ways to better handle the challenges of daily living. You may be feeling these challenges are insurmountable or that you are fundamentally unable to cope. You might not feel that you have a good understanding of who you truly are, what it is you want out of life, or what you have to offer others. You might also struggle to draw on the resources around you and make the most of your personal relationships. You may struggle to find the voice inside to reassure yourself that, as hard as things can feel, they can change. These things don't make you defective; they make you human.
My clients often are looking for ways to better handle the challenges of daily living. You may be feeling these challenges are insurmountable or that you are fundamentally unable to cope. You might not feel that you have a good understanding of who you truly are, what it is you want out of life, or what you have to offer others. You might also struggle to draw on the resources around you and make the most of your personal relationships. You may struggle to find the voice inside to reassure yourself that, as hard as things can feel, they can change. These things don't make you defective; they make you human.
(03) 9068 5168 View (03) 9068 5168
Lilach Yeshurun
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I use EMDR, CBT, ACT or psychodynamic therapeutic approaches as part of the best practice delivery.
Welcome - I’m Lilach. I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker (AMHSW) providing counselling for adults and work with Medicare. If you are reading this, you may be going through a difficult time. Perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed, experiencing anxiety or low mood, or simply sensing that life has become heavy and out of balance. Reaching out for support can feel like a big step, and you are warmly welcome here. Together, we can work towards improving your quality of life, restoring a sense of balance, and creating space for more calm, meaning, and invite moments of joy in your everyday life.
I use EMDR, CBT, ACT or psychodynamic therapeutic approaches as part of the best practice delivery.
Welcome - I’m Lilach. I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker (AMHSW) providing counselling for adults and work with Medicare. If you are reading this, you may be going through a difficult time. Perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed, experiencing anxiety or low mood, or simply sensing that life has become heavy and out of balance. Reaching out for support can feel like a big step, and you are warmly welcome here. Together, we can work towards improving your quality of life, restoring a sense of balance, and creating space for more calm, meaning, and invite moments of joy in your everyday life.
(03) 8400 0745 View (03) 8400 0745
Melanie Strang
Psychologist, MBBS, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Hi there ! Thanks for clicking on my profile. I have over 20 years of practitioner experience, initially as a doctor working in mental health, then as a counsellor and presently, a psychologist. I will see Private, Medicare, NDIS, Workcover and Victims of Crime clients.
Hi there ! Thanks for clicking on my profile. I have over 20 years of practitioner experience, initially as a doctor working in mental health, then as a counsellor and presently, a psychologist. I will see Private, Medicare, NDIS, Workcover and Victims of Crime clients.
(03) 7003 2841 View (03) 7003 2841
Jeremy Neumann
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Serves Area
Jeremy is the director and principle clinician of a thriving psychology/counselling clinic in Malvern and is a highly experienced psychotherapist (BBus; GDipPsych; MSW, AMHSW) with a breadth of clinical experience across both the public and the private sectors. Jeremy has a clinical interest working with people through anxiety, life transitions, identity and depression. 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. Jeremy incorporates the ideals of everyday mindfulness into his practice.
Jeremy is the director and principle clinician of a thriving psychology/counselling clinic in Malvern and is a highly experienced psychotherapist (BBus; GDipPsych; MSW, AMHSW) with a breadth of clinical experience across both the public and the private sectors. Jeremy has a clinical interest working with people through anxiety, life transitions, identity and depression. 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. Jeremy incorporates the ideals of everyday mindfulness into his practice.
(03) 7003 2136 View (03) 7003 2136

More Therapists Nearby

Anna Maxwell
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Newport, VIC 3015
Anna is a registered psychologist and is passionate about helping adults and older adolescents to improve their happiness and wellbeing. Anna has experience working with parents and has facilitated early parenting and attachment-based group programs including Circle of Security and Keeping Your Child in Mind. Anna is committed to building strong, respectful, and collaborative working relationships with her clients. She believes in taking a gentle, person-centred approach so that each client feels heard and understood. Anna supports clients in developing their own insight, self-understanding, and self-compassion.
Anna is a registered psychologist and is passionate about helping adults and older adolescents to improve their happiness and wellbeing. Anna has experience working with parents and has facilitated early parenting and attachment-based group programs including Circle of Security and Keeping Your Child in Mind. Anna is committed to building strong, respectful, and collaborative working relationships with her clients. She believes in taking a gentle, person-centred approach so that each client feels heard and understood. Anna supports clients in developing their own insight, self-understanding, and self-compassion.
(03) 9000 0866 View (03) 9000 0866
Wholehearted Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Psychodynamic Therapy is my primary mode of therapy.
We can focus on a specific problem area you bring to therapy, and delve to a deeper level of understanding of the issue/s so as to resolve it, or we can work in a more fluid, open-ended manner, with self-discovery in mind. While I am not resistant to diagnosis and working within a pathological lens, I like to see people outside of narrow diagnostic labels. In the first instance, my first approach is to understand a client’s suffering by learning about them as unique individuals with complex histories and adaptive coping strategies. As I engage wholeheartedly with clients, my ask is that clients attempt to engage wholeheartedly too.
Psychodynamic Therapy is my primary mode of therapy.
We can focus on a specific problem area you bring to therapy, and delve to a deeper level of understanding of the issue/s so as to resolve it, or we can work in a more fluid, open-ended manner, with self-discovery in mind. While I am not resistant to diagnosis and working within a pathological lens, I like to see people outside of narrow diagnostic labels. In the first instance, my first approach is to understand a client’s suffering by learning about them as unique individuals with complex histories and adaptive coping strategies. As I engage wholeheartedly with clients, my ask is that clients attempt to engage wholeheartedly too.
(03) 8338 1979 View (03) 8338 1979
Jess Mackenzie
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Brunswick East, VIC 3057
Jess offers individual counselling, couples counselling and supervision. She is welcoming and friendly and recognises the importance of building a therapeutic relationship to which people can bring problems and issues without judgement. Jess understands that we all experience uncomfortable and unhelpful behaviours and feelings. With support and some gently challenging, these behaviours and feelings can start to shift.
Jess offers individual counselling, couples counselling and supervision. She is welcoming and friendly and recognises the importance of building a therapeutic relationship to which people can bring problems and issues without judgement. Jess understands that we all experience uncomfortable and unhelpful behaviours and feelings. With support and some gently challenging, these behaviours and feelings can start to shift.
(03) 8372 0590 View (03) 8372 0590
Zave Leo
Counsellor
Melbourne, VIC 3000
There is nothing that unites us more than the human experience, yet the stigma around mental health still impacts us. I see the common threads that connect us every day, even when we think we’re alone. We are relational beings, and shame dies when stories are told in safe spaces. If 1:1 therapy scares you or feels too traditional and formal, I completely understand. I love working with people, and know it’s a privilege to hear stories of all kinds and be with people in their vulnerability. I’m committed to showing up in the present moment with you, and figuring it out together. Real life, done with a real person alongside you.
There is nothing that unites us more than the human experience, yet the stigma around mental health still impacts us. I see the common threads that connect us every day, even when we think we’re alone. We are relational beings, and shame dies when stories are told in safe spaces. If 1:1 therapy scares you or feels too traditional and formal, I completely understand. I love working with people, and know it’s a privilege to hear stories of all kinds and be with people in their vulnerability. I’m committed to showing up in the present moment with you, and figuring it out together. Real life, done with a real person alongside you.
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Sarah Dakhili
Counsellor, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Sarah is a Psychotherapist and Mental Health Social Worker. She has been working within the field of mind-body disorders (MBD) for over 14 years, specialising in Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) chronic pain, trauma recovery and Tension Myositis Syndrome (TMS), including other challenges such as stress, anxiety, depression, Fibromyalgia and PTSD. Her motto is simple: “Supporting clients in creating authentic power within themselves and in turn being able to make what was once difficult, easier”.
Sarah is a Psychotherapist and Mental Health Social Worker. She has been working within the field of mind-body disorders (MBD) for over 14 years, specialising in Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) chronic pain, trauma recovery and Tension Myositis Syndrome (TMS), including other challenges such as stress, anxiety, depression, Fibromyalgia and PTSD. Her motto is simple: “Supporting clients in creating authentic power within themselves and in turn being able to make what was once difficult, easier”.
(07) 3130 0085 View (07) 3130 0085
Mike Cahill
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Hampton Park, VIC 3976
Life can get a bit overwhelming—whether it’s anxiety, addiction, grief, family dramas, parenting stress, or the ups and downs of neurodiversity and big life changes. I offer a down-to-earth, supportive space where you can talk things through at your own pace. Together we’ll look at what’s going on, build resilience, and find practical ways forward that actually work for you. I draw on both my training and my own lived experience, bringing empathy, honesty and the occasional laugh—because sometimes it helps not to take ourselves too seriously.
Life can get a bit overwhelming—whether it’s anxiety, addiction, grief, family dramas, parenting stress, or the ups and downs of neurodiversity and big life changes. I offer a down-to-earth, supportive space where you can talk things through at your own pace. Together we’ll look at what’s going on, build resilience, and find practical ways forward that actually work for you. I draw on both my training and my own lived experience, bringing empathy, honesty and the occasional laugh—because sometimes it helps not to take ourselves too seriously.
(03) 8771 4295 View (03) 8771 4295
Maple Seed Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Lilydale, VIC 3140
We provide counselling for young people (aged 12-25) and their families. Young people aged 12-25 are invited to engage in counselling for a range of issues. We pride ourselves on working within a systemic framework, taking into consideration all aspects of a young person’s life. Counselling may involve Animal Assisted Therapy, with Maple the Therapy Dog. We can assist with a wide range of issues including: · Anxiety · Depression · OCD · Anger issues · LGBTIQ+ related challenges · School/University and work-related issues · Perfectionism · Trauma · Relationship challenges · Neurodiversity
We provide counselling for young people (aged 12-25) and their families. Young people aged 12-25 are invited to engage in counselling for a range of issues. We pride ourselves on working within a systemic framework, taking into consideration all aspects of a young person’s life. Counselling may involve Animal Assisted Therapy, with Maple the Therapy Dog. We can assist with a wide range of issues including: · Anxiety · Depression · OCD · Anger issues · LGBTIQ+ related challenges · School/University and work-related issues · Perfectionism · Trauma · Relationship challenges · Neurodiversity
(03) 8771 4337 View (03) 8771 4337
Hope Is Mine Counselling & Training
Counsellor, ACA-L1
3 Endorsed
Werribee, VIC 3030
I partner with individuals, couples, and young adults who are navigating the complex, often silent challenges of life transitions, cultural adjustment, and identity. I also deeply welcome those who are exploring or wish to integrate their Christian faith into their healing journey. Grounded in evidence-based, trauma-informed, and cognitive-behavioural frameworks, my approach is distinctively practical, warm, and highly empathetic.
I partner with individuals, couples, and young adults who are navigating the complex, often silent challenges of life transitions, cultural adjustment, and identity. I also deeply welcome those who are exploring or wish to integrate their Christian faith into their healing journey. Grounded in evidence-based, trauma-informed, and cognitive-behavioural frameworks, my approach is distinctively practical, warm, and highly empathetic.
(03) 7302 2570 View (03) 7302 2570
Clara Pizzorno
Psychotherapist, PACFA
5 Endorsed
Brunswick, VIC 3056
I have been working in the mental health field since 2013, supporting adults and youth going through a variety of emotional and relational challenges. I offer sessions in both English and Spanish and work with issues including, but not limited to: low self-esteem, emotional dysregulation, somatic disturbances, trauma and PTSD, migration and reacculturation challenges, exit counselling (post-cult recovery), parenting struggles, addictions, suicidal ideation and self-harm, anxiety, depression, grief, and loss. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Counselling & Psychotherapy from the Ikon Institute, Melbourne, and a Bachelor’s degree in
I have been working in the mental health field since 2013, supporting adults and youth going through a variety of emotional and relational challenges. I offer sessions in both English and Spanish and work with issues including, but not limited to: low self-esteem, emotional dysregulation, somatic disturbances, trauma and PTSD, migration and reacculturation challenges, exit counselling (post-cult recovery), parenting struggles, addictions, suicidal ideation and self-harm, anxiety, depression, grief, and loss. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Counselling & Psychotherapy from the Ikon Institute, Melbourne, and a Bachelor’s degree in
0414 264 630 View 0414 264 630
Wayne George
Counsellor, ACA-L4
5 Endorsed
Online Only
I believe that every person has great worth and value; each one is born for purpose; within every person is a rich deposit of skills. However, ‘life happens’; situations arise that cloud one’s vision causing one to feel ‘just not worth it’. One doubts oneself and gets bogged down. If that sounds like you, connect with me today and let’s journey together. You are worth it! Samway Consulting (formerly Samway Counselling Services) is an online counselling service that aims to create a safe, nonjudgmental space for you to talk, unpack and unload.
I believe that every person has great worth and value; each one is born for purpose; within every person is a rich deposit of skills. However, ‘life happens’; situations arise that cloud one’s vision causing one to feel ‘just not worth it’. One doubts oneself and gets bogged down. If that sounds like you, connect with me today and let’s journey together. You are worth it! Samway Consulting (formerly Samway Counselling Services) is an online counselling service that aims to create a safe, nonjudgmental space for you to talk, unpack and unload.
(07) 3060 8316 View (07) 3060 8316
Megan Sinclair
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Online Only
My primary focus is working with adults aged 16 and older. I have experience working with individuals navigating: Trauma, PTSD, Interpersonal Concerns, Anxiety + Panic Disorders, Perinatal Mental Health, Stress + Burnout, Somatic Symptoms and Parenting
My primary focus is working with adults aged 16 and older. I have experience working with individuals navigating: Trauma, PTSD, Interpersonal Concerns, Anxiety + Panic Disorders, Perinatal Mental Health, Stress + Burnout, Somatic Symptoms and Parenting
(03) 5608 5582 View (03) 5608 5582
Dr Justin Olstein
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Windsor, VIC 3181
I draw upon psychodynamic and schema therapy approaches to help identify and repair problematic emotional and behavioural patterns.
I obtained a doctorate of psychology, and have experience working in public mental health settings and private practice. I have a special interest in working with LGBTQIA+ clients. I also work with anxiety, low mood, life transitions, substance use issues, family/relationship issues, grief/loss, self-esteem and trauma (including intergenerational trauma).
I draw upon psychodynamic and schema therapy approaches to help identify and repair problematic emotional and behavioural patterns.
I obtained a doctorate of psychology, and have experience working in public mental health settings and private practice. I have a special interest in working with LGBTQIA+ clients. I also work with anxiety, low mood, life transitions, substance use issues, family/relationship issues, grief/loss, self-esteem and trauma (including intergenerational trauma).
0411 742 636 View 0411 742 636
Brooke Harris
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Frankston, VIC 3199
Brooke is passionate about providing assessment and therapy that is evidence based, ethical, flexible, informative and personalised to the individual’s needs. She uses a trauma informed and culturally inclusive lens drawing on her training and expertise in Psychological Assessment, Trauma Focused Cognitive behavioural therapy (TF-CBT) ,Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) , Narrative Therapy, Sensory Motor Psychotherapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) and Creative Art therapy.
Brooke is passionate about providing assessment and therapy that is evidence based, ethical, flexible, informative and personalised to the individual’s needs. She uses a trauma informed and culturally inclusive lens drawing on her training and expertise in Psychological Assessment, Trauma Focused Cognitive behavioural therapy (TF-CBT) ,Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) , Narrative Therapy, Sensory Motor Psychotherapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) and Creative Art therapy.
(03) 5905 7095 View (03) 5905 7095
Ciaran Barton
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Elwood, VIC 3184
I am a Clinical Psychologist with extensive experience understanding the complexities within relationships, providing support to both individuals, couples, and families. I help clients improve communication, navigate conflict, and strengthen emotional connection. I also work with anxiety, depression, and life transitions using evidence-based therapies. I have national experience conducting psychological assessments in Family Law matters, including psychological risk evaluations, ASD, ADHD, and FASD. I also use Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to address the needs of my clients.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with extensive experience understanding the complexities within relationships, providing support to both individuals, couples, and families. I help clients improve communication, navigate conflict, and strengthen emotional connection. I also work with anxiety, depression, and life transitions using evidence-based therapies. I have national experience conducting psychological assessments in Family Law matters, including psychological risk evaluations, ASD, ADHD, and FASD. I also use Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to address the needs of my clients.
0414 289 400 View 0414 289 400

See more therapy options for Bentleigh East

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.