Sexual Abuse Psychologists and Therapists in Bentleigh, VIC

Photo of Lucy McCarthy, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Lucy McCarthy
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
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 Julianne Read - Keystone Psychology, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Keystone Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Serves Area
At Keystone Psychology we believe that every child deserves to live a healthy and happy life. We are forensic psychologists and our expertise is in the assessment and treatment of children and young people who engage in a range of sensitive and complex behaviours including high risk behaviours that may, if left unaddressed, have negative impacts on their future. This includes behaviours that are disrespectful, inappropriate, problematic and or harmful; as well as physical/sexual violence. Our clients may have also experienced abuse and are seeking a personalised approach for therapy. We help our clients get back on track.
At Keystone Psychology we believe that every child deserves to live a healthy and happy life. We are forensic psychologists and our expertise is in the assessment and treatment of children and young people who engage in a range of sensitive and complex behaviours including high risk behaviours that may, if left unaddressed, have negative impacts on their future. This includes behaviours that are disrespectful, inappropriate, problematic and or harmful; as well as physical/sexual violence. Our clients may have also experienced abuse and are seeking a personalised approach for therapy. We help our clients get back on track.
(03) 8658 3864 View (03) 8658 3864
Photo of Melanie Colhoun - Melanie Colhoun - Integrated Psychology Centre, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Melanie Colhoun - Integrated Psychology Centre
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Bentleigh, VIC 3204
Melanie is the Principal Clinical Psychologist at Integrated Psychology Centre, a group private practice including Clinical, Counselling. Health, Educational & Developmental registered psychologists. A Graduate of Monash University, Melanie has over twenty years experience in private practice and other clinical settings including; university counselling, employee assistance programmes, employment services, asylum seeker detention centres and educational settings. Our psychologists consult with children, teens and adults.
Melanie is the Principal Clinical Psychologist at Integrated Psychology Centre, a group private practice including Clinical, Counselling. Health, Educational & Developmental registered psychologists. A Graduate of Monash University, Melanie has over twenty years experience in private practice and other clinical settings including; university counselling, employee assistance programmes, employment services, asylum seeker detention centres and educational settings. Our psychologists consult with children, teens and adults.
(03) 7500 5942 View (03) 7500 5942
Photo of Amy Somers, Counsellor, PACFA
Amy Somers
Counsellor, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
You've come here because you're suffering in some way. It is my honour to be able to offer a therapy space for people who want to face the pain in their lives, and see what might be on the other side. Many people come at times of change or transition: relationships, life stages, careers, dark nights of the soul, or plunges into the deep end. Or, people come feeling stuck after years of coping with trauma and addiction. In sessions, I support you to identify the conflicts, emotions, memories, and relationship struggles that repeat and we find ways to experience these differently.
You've come here because you're suffering in some way. It is my honour to be able to offer a therapy space for people who want to face the pain in their lives, and see what might be on the other side. Many people come at times of change or transition: relationships, life stages, careers, dark nights of the soul, or plunges into the deep end. Or, people come feeling stuck after years of coping with trauma and addiction. In sessions, I support you to identify the conflicts, emotions, memories, and relationship struggles that repeat and we find ways to experience these differently.
(08) 7744 7536 View (08) 7744 7536
Photo of Lital Fee, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Lital Fee
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Lital is a dedicated and experienced Psychotherapist with a compassionate, client-centred approach to therapy. She provides a safe and supportive space where individuals feel genuinely heard and respected. Lital has extensive experience working with a wide range of mental health challenges, including trauma, borderline personality disorder (BPD), adult ADHD, anxiety and emotionally dysregulated or challenging behaviours. Her special area of interest is supporting clients with a history to substance misuse and addictions.
Lital is a dedicated and experienced Psychotherapist with a compassionate, client-centred approach to therapy. She provides a safe and supportive space where individuals feel genuinely heard and respected. Lital has extensive experience working with a wide range of mental health challenges, including trauma, borderline personality disorder (BPD), adult ADHD, anxiety and emotionally dysregulated or challenging behaviours. Her special area of interest is supporting clients with a history to substance misuse and addictions.
(03) 9111 5330 View (03) 9111 5330
Photo of Rachel O'meara, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Rachel O'meara
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Rachel is a compassionate Psychologist dedicated to providing support to individuals across the lifespan, from children to adolescents and adults, who are navigating a variety of challenges. With experience in Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Trauma and Stressor Related Disorders, family violence and physical disabilities, Rachel brings a comprehensive approach to her practice. She believes in the power of strengths-based intervention plans tailored to each person’s unique needs, fostering a sense of empowerment and agency.
Rachel is a compassionate Psychologist dedicated to providing support to individuals across the lifespan, from children to adolescents and adults, who are navigating a variety of challenges. With experience in Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Trauma and Stressor Related Disorders, family violence and physical disabilities, Rachel brings a comprehensive approach to her practice. She believes in the power of strengths-based intervention plans tailored to each person’s unique needs, fostering a sense of empowerment and agency.
(03) 7003 2714 View (03) 7003 2714
Photo of Amy Claire Redman - Amy Redman Psychology - EMDR/ Trauma Psychologist, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Amy Redman Psychology - EMDR/ Trauma Psychologist
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Serves Area
Hi I'm Amy, I am a Counselling Psychologist. I create a friendly, supportive and non judgemental environment and enjoy working with adolescents, young adults and adults. My therapeutic approach is client centred, where client's goals, interest and preferences guide treatment. I am passionate about working collaboratively with clients to identify and achieve their goals and improve their overall well-being and experience of life’s many challenges.
Hi I'm Amy, I am a Counselling Psychologist. I create a friendly, supportive and non judgemental environment and enjoy working with adolescents, young adults and adults. My therapeutic approach is client centred, where client's goals, interest and preferences guide treatment. I am passionate about working collaboratively with clients to identify and achieve their goals and improve their overall well-being and experience of life’s many challenges.
0444 572 251 View 0444 572 251
Photo of Clarissa Martinez, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L4
Clarissa Martinez
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L4
Serves Area
Hello you may have arrived here in search of support and clarity or to understand some issues that may have had a profound impact within your life. If you are looking for support and guidance through a challenging situation or you’re just ready to move into a new direction in your life I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals. I work one on one with adults at my practice located in Brighton. The services I provide is an integrative mixture of Kinesiology, Counselling, Neurofeedback therapy and Reiki.
Hello you may have arrived here in search of support and clarity or to understand some issues that may have had a profound impact within your life. If you are looking for support and guidance through a challenging situation or you’re just ready to move into a new direction in your life I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals. I work one on one with adults at my practice located in Brighton. The services I provide is an integrative mixture of Kinesiology, Counselling, Neurofeedback therapy and Reiki.
(03) 7003 2286 View (03) 7003 2286
Photo of Dr Sesil Ozgis, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Sesil Ozgis
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
Hi my name is Sesil. I have completed the Doctor of Psychology (Clinical) postgraduate degree. I am a registered Clinical Psychologist. I began practising in 2002 and have had a range of experiences working in a variety of settings. Some of the areas I work with include anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, life changes, relationship issues, grief/loss and stress. I am currently available to offer Telehealth psychology services for adults.
Hi my name is Sesil. I have completed the Doctor of Psychology (Clinical) postgraduate degree. I am a registered Clinical Psychologist. I began practising in 2002 and have had a range of experiences working in a variety of settings. Some of the areas I work with include anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, life changes, relationship issues, grief/loss and stress. I am currently available to offer Telehealth psychology services for adults.
(03) 7500 5999 View (03) 7500 5999
Photo of Ella Graj, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Ella Graj
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Find that talking about your struggles in therapy hasn’t led to the change you were hoping for—or that symptoms have persisted despite previous treatment and immense effort? You are not alone. I use evidence-based approaches that go beyond talking to address symptoms at their root, prioritising a strong therapeutic relationship and safety throughout the process. I work with people aged 18+ experiencing PTSD and complex-PTSD, chronic pain, anxiety, depression, panic, relationship difficulties and dissociation.
Find that talking about your struggles in therapy hasn’t led to the change you were hoping for—or that symptoms have persisted despite previous treatment and immense effort? You are not alone. I use evidence-based approaches that go beyond talking to address symptoms at their root, prioritising a strong therapeutic relationship and safety throughout the process. I work with people aged 18+ experiencing PTSD and complex-PTSD, chronic pain, anxiety, depression, panic, relationship difficulties and dissociation.
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Photo of Dr Shikha Gray, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Shikha Gray
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I work with adults & couples dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD & complex trauma, relationship difficulties, OCD and other emotional concerns. I approach therapy with a deep curiosity about you: how you see things like noone else. Depending on what brings you to therapy, we may explore how pivotal moments in life have shaped you, your beliefs, and your relationships, or we may look at practical ways you could bring about the changes you hope for. My aim is to provide a supportive space that helps you understand things more clearly, accept yourself more fully, and feel more capable of meeting life’s challenges.
I work with adults & couples dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD & complex trauma, relationship difficulties, OCD and other emotional concerns. I approach therapy with a deep curiosity about you: how you see things like noone else. Depending on what brings you to therapy, we may explore how pivotal moments in life have shaped you, your beliefs, and your relationships, or we may look at practical ways you could bring about the changes you hope for. My aim is to provide a supportive space that helps you understand things more clearly, accept yourself more fully, and feel more capable of meeting life’s challenges.
(03) 7003 2197 View (03) 7003 2197
Photo of Nasia Outsikas, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Nasia Outsikas
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
You might feel overwhelmed, stuck in patterns you don’t fully understand, or unsure how to move forward. Maybe you’re dealing with anxiety, people pleasing, overthinking, or feeling like you’ve lost touch with who you are. It’s likely you’re carrying more than most people realise. I’m a psychologist who helps people work through trauma, relationship struggles, risky behaviours, and major life transitions. Therapy with me is about creating a safe space to unpack what’s going on and start feeling like the version of yourself you want to be.
You might feel overwhelmed, stuck in patterns you don’t fully understand, or unsure how to move forward. Maybe you’re dealing with anxiety, people pleasing, overthinking, or feeling like you’ve lost touch with who you are. It’s likely you’re carrying more than most people realise. I’m a psychologist who helps people work through trauma, relationship struggles, risky behaviours, and major life transitions. Therapy with me is about creating a safe space to unpack what’s going on and start feeling like the version of yourself you want to be.
(03) 8203 5929 View (03) 8203 5929
Photo of Nicol Thomas, PhD
Nicol Thomas
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I practice Lacanian Psychoanalysis. Psychoanalysis is a talking work, or therapy, which aims to make an absolute difference to suffering. Lacan's psychoanalysis is based in the idea that the unconscious is structured like language. What you say reveals the unconscious processes that underlie any issues that are problematic for you, or recur. Psychoanalysis is the safe space where you can come to talk freely, without censorship and your analyst listens. There is no "correct" way to speak; the work of psychoanalysis is to find your own unique voice, especially of your unconscious.
I practice Lacanian Psychoanalysis. Psychoanalysis is a talking work, or therapy, which aims to make an absolute difference to suffering. Lacan's psychoanalysis is based in the idea that the unconscious is structured like language. What you say reveals the unconscious processes that underlie any issues that are problematic for you, or recur. Psychoanalysis is the safe space where you can come to talk freely, without censorship and your analyst listens. There is no "correct" way to speak; the work of psychoanalysis is to find your own unique voice, especially of your unconscious.
(03) 7003 2391 View (03) 7003 2391
Photo of Kim Storey, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Kim Storey
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
A professional clinical counsellor/psychotherapist with 15 years experience who will provide you with a caring and safe space to talk about what is troubling you. Counselling can help you to navigate through current or past issues; it may be a journey you need to take by yourself, or with your partner or family. Whatever stage you're at and whoever you're with, coming to counselling can be an experience of learning and discovery that will ultimately enrichen your relationships and the way you live your life.
A professional clinical counsellor/psychotherapist with 15 years experience who will provide you with a caring and safe space to talk about what is troubling you. Counselling can help you to navigate through current or past issues; it may be a journey you need to take by yourself, or with your partner or family. Whatever stage you're at and whoever you're with, coming to counselling can be an experience of learning and discovery that will ultimately enrichen your relationships and the way you live your life.
(03) 6146 3219 View (03) 6146 3219
Photo of Lisa Bloom, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Lisa Bloom
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I am an experienced Clinical Psychologist helping individuals struggling with eating disorders, disordered eating and binge eating, and body image issues. I work with clients who are ready to overcome their inner critic and the habits that keep them stuck. I work with people who don't want to just focus on diet and weight (although this can be important at times), but also get to the root cause of their relationship with food and their body. Additionally, I support those trapped in patterns of unhelpful relationships, anxiety, self-criticism, perfectionism, and chronic unhappiness, guiding them toward a new, healthier path.
I am an experienced Clinical Psychologist helping individuals struggling with eating disorders, disordered eating and binge eating, and body image issues. I work with clients who are ready to overcome their inner critic and the habits that keep them stuck. I work with people who don't want to just focus on diet and weight (although this can be important at times), but also get to the root cause of their relationship with food and their body. Additionally, I support those trapped in patterns of unhelpful relationships, anxiety, self-criticism, perfectionism, and chronic unhappiness, guiding them toward a new, healthier path.
(03) 7500 5433 View (03) 7500 5433
Photo of Dr Gávi Ansara, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Dr Gávi Ansara
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy working together to overcome oppression & help you to thrive. I often work with people in D/s relationships, non-binary folks, sex workers, & Autistic people. I have 20 years of international experience in Anti-Oppressive Practice. I am a Full Clinical PACFA Registrant, an AAFT-registered Clinical Family Therapist, and an AAFT-accredited Clinical Supervisor. I am recognised by Pink Therapy as an Advanced Accredited Gender, Sex, & Relationship Diversities Therapist (AAGSRDT). I am also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Level II: Complex Trauma & Dissociation (CCTP-II) & Certified Family Trauma Professional (CFTP).
I enjoy working together to overcome oppression & help you to thrive. I often work with people in D/s relationships, non-binary folks, sex workers, & Autistic people. I have 20 years of international experience in Anti-Oppressive Practice. I am a Full Clinical PACFA Registrant, an AAFT-registered Clinical Family Therapist, and an AAFT-accredited Clinical Supervisor. I am recognised by Pink Therapy as an Advanced Accredited Gender, Sex, & Relationship Diversities Therapist (AAGSRDT). I am also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Level II: Complex Trauma & Dissociation (CCTP-II) & Certified Family Trauma Professional (CFTP).
(03) 7003 2148 View (03) 7003 2148

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tracey Moroney, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Tracey Moroney
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Heathmont, VIC 3135
I am a trauma informed counsellor who respectfully builds connection using attachment theory as my foundation. My passion for helping people was established in my formative career as an oncology nurse. I assist people safely unpack aspects of themselves and their lives, in the hope that this process creates the ingredients for self-awareness, self-compassion and growth. With an attitude of curiosity, I aim to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, and empathic space for each person to reflect upon their unique lived experience. Together we help to build a repertoire of resources to draw upon, to foster greater joy and meaning in one’s life.
I am a trauma informed counsellor who respectfully builds connection using attachment theory as my foundation. My passion for helping people was established in my formative career as an oncology nurse. I assist people safely unpack aspects of themselves and their lives, in the hope that this process creates the ingredients for self-awareness, self-compassion and growth. With an attitude of curiosity, I aim to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, and empathic space for each person to reflect upon their unique lived experience. Together we help to build a repertoire of resources to draw upon, to foster greater joy and meaning in one’s life.
(03) 8203 5417 View (03) 8203 5417
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 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 Sarah Jones, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Sarah Jones
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Preston, VIC 3072
Sarah Jones is an effective therapist with 25 years’ experience counselling adults, couples, and older adolescents (15 years and older). She is a Clinical Member of the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia, and a senior clinician who has contributed to the field through providing professional development and supervision of other counsellors. Sarah works with individuals and couples addressing their mental health, communication and fulfilment in life.
Sarah Jones is an effective therapist with 25 years’ experience counselling adults, couples, and older adolescents (15 years and older). She is a Clinical Member of the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia, and a senior clinician who has contributed to the field through providing professional development and supervision of other counsellors. Sarah works with individuals and couples addressing their mental health, communication and fulfilment in life.
(03) 8338 1006 View (03) 8338 1006
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.