Sexual Abuse Psychologists and Therapists in Bentleigh East, VIC

Photo of Lucy McCarthy, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Lucy McCarthy
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Bentleigh East, VIC 3165
My particular areas of expertise are in the treatment of Complex Trauma, Childhood Sexual Abuse and Problem Gambling.
I engage with my clients in a respectful and professional manner, underpinned by warmth and openness. I endeavour to bring an authenticity that allows you to feel comfortable and confident enough to explore your concerns, then co create a plan utilising treatments such as Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Cognitive Therapy or Attachment Based Interventions.
My particular areas of expertise are in the treatment of Complex Trauma, Childhood Sexual Abuse and Problem Gambling.
I engage with my clients in a respectful and professional manner, underpinned by warmth and openness. I endeavour to bring an authenticity that allows you to feel comfortable and confident enough to explore your concerns, then co create a plan utilising treatments such as Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Cognitive Therapy or Attachment Based Interventions.
(03) 7500 5855 View (03) 7500 5855
Photo of Kat O'Mara, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Kat O'Mara
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Serves Area
I also work with women who have experienced sexual abuse, assault, and rape.
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.
I also work with women who have experienced sexual abuse, assault, and rape.
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 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 Chanelle Adam, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Chanelle Adam
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Bentleigh East, VIC 3165
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".
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".
View
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. I provide therapy to individuals across Melbourne, including Oakleigh and Chadstone, 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. I provide therapy to individuals across Melbourne, including Oakleigh and Chadstone, 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 Lilach Yeshurun, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Lilach Yeshurun
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
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.
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
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

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Esen Uygun, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Esen Uygun
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Fitzroy North, VIC 3068
I am passionate about supporting and helping individuals, families who feel trapped in their trauma symptoms. I am Somatic Experiencing, Accredited EMDR and Havening Practitioner. I support people with Complex PTSD issues. There is a common belief that the trauma is the result of individual's thinking pattern, which is misleading. Any traumatic experiences registered somatically, therefore the trauma work will be somatically oriented, which aims to clear the symptoms from the whole system.
I am passionate about supporting and helping individuals, families who feel trapped in their trauma symptoms. I am Somatic Experiencing, Accredited EMDR and Havening Practitioner. I support people with Complex PTSD issues. There is a common belief that the trauma is the result of individual's thinking pattern, which is misleading. Any traumatic experiences registered somatically, therefore the trauma work will be somatically oriented, which aims to clear the symptoms from the whole system.
(03) 9071 0595 View (03) 9071 0595
Photo of Monica Doyle - Monica Doyle - Online Therapy
Monica Doyle - Online Therapy
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you feel on edge, easily distracted, or irritable? Do you catch yourself overanalyzing and questioning decisions or interactions with other people? Do you feel disconnected, lonely, or unsure of yourself? These are all natural feelings, and we all struggle sometimes. But occasionally life throws curve balls at us and moving forward requires a little more work. This can be especially true if you have recently experienced a significant life change. Therapy can offer the needed support and change of perspective by unveiling new insights. It can also bring lasting benefits to your relationships and interactions.
Do you feel on edge, easily distracted, or irritable? Do you catch yourself overanalyzing and questioning decisions or interactions with other people? Do you feel disconnected, lonely, or unsure of yourself? These are all natural feelings, and we all struggle sometimes. But occasionally life throws curve balls at us and moving forward requires a little more work. This can be especially true if you have recently experienced a significant life change. Therapy can offer the needed support and change of perspective by unveiling new insights. It can also bring lasting benefits to your relationships and interactions.
0485 990 706 View 0485 990 706
Photo of Olivia Romaneix - Olivia Elise Counselling, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Olivia Elise Counselling
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Brunswick, VIC 3056
I work with teens and adults navigating the impacts of both single-incident and ongoing relational trauma. My approach is warm, collaborative, and trauma-informed, drawing on EMDR, somatic, and creative therapies to support processing and nervous system regulation. I focus on fostering holistic connection - with yourself, others, and your environment. I’m curious about the coping strategies you’ve developed, understanding them as adaptive and meaningful, while exploring new ways of being and relating. I hold your story within its broader context, recognising the influence of family, community, and society in shaping your experience.
I work with teens and adults navigating the impacts of both single-incident and ongoing relational trauma. My approach is warm, collaborative, and trauma-informed, drawing on EMDR, somatic, and creative therapies to support processing and nervous system regulation. I focus on fostering holistic connection - with yourself, others, and your environment. I’m curious about the coping strategies you’ve developed, understanding them as adaptive and meaningful, while exploring new ways of being and relating. I hold your story within its broader context, recognising the influence of family, community, and society in shaping your experience.
View
Photo of San Leenstra, Counsellor, MA, AThR
San Leenstra
Counsellor, MA, AThR
Serves Area
I have over 20 years experience working with individuals, adults, teens, children and families and have qualifications in Art Therapy, Family Therapy and have many years experience working in sexual assault recovery and trauma-informed practice.
I am passionate about working collaboratively and believe in balancing honesty with warmth and care, being straight forward as well as gentle, kind and non-judgemental. I work client-centred, with unconditional positive regard and allow each perspective to be heard, valued and taken seriously. I support each individual to explore their own unique way of being in this world, with all its challenges and rewards. I invite you to embrace a journey of self-discovery and growth in a safe, supportive environment where your voice matters.
I have over 20 years experience working with individuals, adults, teens, children and families and have qualifications in Art Therapy, Family Therapy and have many years experience working in sexual assault recovery and trauma-informed practice.
I am passionate about working collaboratively and believe in balancing honesty with warmth and care, being straight forward as well as gentle, kind and non-judgemental. I work client-centred, with unconditional positive regard and allow each perspective to be heard, valued and taken seriously. I support each individual to explore their own unique way of being in this world, with all its challenges and rewards. I invite you to embrace a journey of self-discovery and growth in a safe, supportive environment where your voice matters.
(03) 4422 2660 View (03) 4422 2660
Photo of Bianca Rosin, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Bianca Rosin
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
You might be living with the impact of complex trauma - feeling on edge, emotionally overwhelmed, shut down, or stuck in patterns that don’t make sense. Maybe you’ve done therapy before and understand your story, but your nervous system still reacts as if the danger is present. I work with adults healing from complex trauma (CPTSD), developmental trauma, and repeated relational wounds. My approach integrates mind and body - supporting both insight and nervous system regulation so change feels sustainable, not forced. Trauma doesn’t only live in memory. It lives in the body and in protective patterns that once helped you survive.
You might be living with the impact of complex trauma - feeling on edge, emotionally overwhelmed, shut down, or stuck in patterns that don’t make sense. Maybe you’ve done therapy before and understand your story, but your nervous system still reacts as if the danger is present. I work with adults healing from complex trauma (CPTSD), developmental trauma, and repeated relational wounds. My approach integrates mind and body - supporting both insight and nervous system regulation so change feels sustainable, not forced. Trauma doesn’t only live in memory. It lives in the body and in protective patterns that once helped you survive.
(02) 4077 0486 View (02) 4077 0486
Photo of Rebecca Reale - Wholehearted Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Wholehearted Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Consequently, I have worked extensively with victim/survivors of sexual assault and family violence.
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.
Consequently, I have worked extensively with victim/survivors of sexual assault and family violence.
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
Photo of Nikki Pascarl, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Nikki Pascarl
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Pakenham, VIC 3810
I work with people aged 18 years and older. I see a range of presentations, but my niche focus is trauma - both when needs have not been met growing up, as well as when traumatic events have happened. PTSD & cPTSD, BPD, various anxiety disorders, dissociative disorders, unhelpful coping - such as substances misuse.
I work with people aged 18 years and older. I see a range of presentations, but my niche focus is trauma - both when needs have not been met growing up, as well as when traumatic events have happened. PTSD & cPTSD, BPD, various anxiety disorders, dissociative disorders, unhelpful coping - such as substances misuse.
(03) 5910 1301 View (03) 5910 1301
Photo of Brooke Harris, Psychologist, PsyBA General
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
Photo of Geetha Chetty, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Geetha Chetty
Counsellor, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Williams Landing, VIC 3027
I've worked in correctional services, and various community sectors namely, disadvantaged and marginalised youth, AOD, homelessness, unemployment, sexual assault and family violence.
I believe that we are all unique and experience the world differently in our own special way. Therefore, I do not use a one size fits all counselling approach but adopt different strategies and techniques to provide the most effective treatment for my clients. I use a culturally sensitive, strengths-based, and trauma-informed approach to guide my practice.
I've worked in correctional services, and various community sectors namely, disadvantaged and marginalised youth, AOD, homelessness, unemployment, sexual assault and family violence.
I believe that we are all unique and experience the world differently in our own special way. Therefore, I do not use a one size fits all counselling approach but adopt different strategies and techniques to provide the most effective treatment for my clients. I use a culturally sensitive, strengths-based, and trauma-informed approach to guide my practice.
(03) 7302 2085 View (03) 7302 2085
Photo of Victoria McIntyre, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Victoria McIntyre
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
I support individuals who have experienced physical, emotional, psychological, systemic, generational, cultural, financial and sexual abuse, as well as individuals who are experiencing mental health concerns. Using a holistic and strength based approach when supporting individuals along their recovery journey and draws from a range of evidence based therapeutic approaches including but not limited to Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR at an Advanced Training level), person-centred therapy, solutions-focused therapy, polyvagal theory and cognitive behavioural therapy
I support individuals who have experienced physical, emotional, psychological, systemic, generational, cultural, financial and sexual abuse, as well as individuals who are experiencing mental health concerns. Using a holistic and strength based approach when supporting individuals along their recovery journey and draws from a range of evidence based therapeutic approaches including but not limited to Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR at an Advanced Training level), person-centred therapy, solutions-focused therapy, polyvagal theory and cognitive behavioural therapy
(03) 4233 0828 View (03) 4233 0828
Photo of Barbara Drossos, Social Worker, AMHSW
Barbara Drossos
Social Worker, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Coburg, VIC 3058
I support people who have experienced sexual assault and violence, as well as those who struggle with their mental health, childhood trauma, attachment, relationships, parenting, heartbreak and shame.
Life can be hard to navigate, especially when we face transitions, stressors and/or crises. Counselling can make a difference. I provide non-judgmental, warm and thoughtful support to work towards change through increasing self-awareness, developing interpersonal and self-care skills, as well as processing trauma that may still be impacting your life.
I support people who have experienced sexual assault and violence, as well as those who struggle with their mental health, childhood trauma, attachment, relationships, parenting, heartbreak and shame.
Life can be hard to navigate, especially when we face transitions, stressors and/or crises. Counselling can make a difference. I provide non-judgmental, warm and thoughtful support to work towards change through increasing self-awareness, developing interpersonal and self-care skills, as well as processing trauma that may still be impacting your life.
(03) 9344 1556 View (03) 9344 1556
Damien Gafforini
Social Worker, AMHSW
Doreen, VIC 3754
I have 20 years of experience, in particular supporting those whom have experienced some form of traumatic event (especially sexual abuse).
I have 20 years of counselling experience. With degree’s in Psychology, Social Work and Child Psychotherapy. I provide specialised supports for clients who have complex trauma through the use of such tools as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), Neurofeedback, QEEG and trauma therapy. I also provide Couples Counselling.
I have 20 years of experience, in particular supporting those whom have experienced some form of traumatic event (especially sexual abuse).
I have 20 years of counselling experience. With degree’s in Psychology, Social Work and Child Psychotherapy. I provide specialised supports for clients who have complex trauma through the use of such tools as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), Neurofeedback, QEEG and trauma therapy. I also provide Couples Counselling.
(03) 9068 6002 View (03) 9068 6002
Photo of Colleen Denise Cahill - Mindfulness Matters, Social Worker, AMHSW
Mindfulness Matters
Social Worker, AMHSW
Kallista, VIC 3791
Sexual assault?
I am an individual/family/relationship therapist that can assist people working through their relationship issues in a non-judgemental manner that increases their skills in relating to others and may assist some through times of separation. I develop plans with my clients that assist them in understanding themselves and strategies that empower them.
Sexual assault?
I am an individual/family/relationship therapist that can assist people working through their relationship issues in a non-judgemental manner that increases their skills in relating to others and may assist some through times of separation. I develop plans with my clients that assist them in understanding themselves and strategies that empower them.
(03) 8592 9256 View (03) 8592 9256

See more therapy options for Bentleigh East

Sexual Abuse Therapists
How do therapists treat sexual abuse?
A good therapist will be nonjudgmental and possibly demonstrate active listening, repeating back what the client says to show that they have understood. These skills allow people to feel comfortable discussing their traumatic experiences openly. Some important treatment goals are to restore a sense of safety and to rebuild confidence. In addition to working one-on-one with the patient, a therapist might bring in supportive family members to assist the client.

Do you have to talk extensively about sexual abuse in therapy?
Survivors frequently find it difficult to describe what happened to them out loud. They can even still be in a state of denial if the sexual abuse occurred recently. It is important for survivors to acknowledge that what happened isn’t their fault and to challenge and reappraise any unhealthy feelings or thoughts as they arise. Art therapy and play therapy are useful non-verbal means of communication for some survivors.

How long does treatment for sexual abuse take?
Recovery from sexual abuse can be a long and difficult process. Some survivors are able to move on naturally on their own, given time, while others require the guidance of a trained therapist. Therapy needs vary and can range from a few sessions to months or even years. Healing from sexual abuse takes time, and everyone’s journey will look a little different.

Can trauma symptoms caused by sexual abuse come back after treatment?
As occurs in many cases of trauma, survivors of sexual abuse may experience PTSD-like symptoms long after the abuse has ceased or after an initial round of treatment has occurred. In such a case, there is evidence that prolonged exposure therapy is a useful treatment for survivors, and may be more efficacious than supportive counseling alone. While triggers may continue to cause distress, the idea is that, with time and repeated exposure, their power will fade, allowing survivors to move on with their lives.