Parenting Psychologists and Therapists in Brunswick East, VIC

Photo of Christa Winkels, Counsellor, MA, AThR
Christa Winkels
Counsellor, MA, AThR
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I offer support for a range of concerns, including: sex and intimacy; sexuality and identity; grief and loss; relationships and interpersonal challenges; parenting; perinatal mental health; developmental and complex trauma; disordered eating and body image; anxiety and depression; exploring and connecting with self; and cultivating creativity.
I am a creative arts psychotherapist and social worker with 10+ years experience in mental health and community-based settings. My passion lies in supporting people who are looking to feel more pleasure, wholeness and connection within themselves and in relationships. I utilise a range of theories and approaches, and work in collaboration with you to find what best fits your needs. I am particularly interested in creative, somatic and movement-based therapies to foster safety, curiosity, playfulness, and self expression. My practice is trauma sensitive, sex work inclusive, and LGBTQIA+ affirming. All relationship structures welcome.
I offer support for a range of concerns, including: sex and intimacy; sexuality and identity; grief and loss; relationships and interpersonal challenges; parenting; perinatal mental health; developmental and complex trauma; disordered eating and body image; anxiety and depression; exploring and connecting with self; and cultivating creativity.
I am a creative arts psychotherapist and social worker with 10+ years experience in mental health and community-based settings. My passion lies in supporting people who are looking to feel more pleasure, wholeness and connection within themselves and in relationships. I utilise a range of theories and approaches, and work in collaboration with you to find what best fits your needs. I am particularly interested in creative, somatic and movement-based therapies to foster safety, curiosity, playfulness, and self expression. My practice is trauma sensitive, sex work inclusive, and LGBTQIA+ affirming. All relationship structures welcome.
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Photo of Selena Meneghini, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Selena Meneghini
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Brunswick East, VIC 3057
I am a warm, authentic psychologist who believes we all need a little help sometimes. If you have been feeling stuck in work, relationships, or life in general, we will work on short-term strategies as well as long-term patterns and how to shift these. Whether you have a difficult person in your life, a tough job, or are struggling to understand parts of yourself or others, therapy is a safe place to work through these. I am particularly passionate about helping individuals build thriving, healthy connections for themselves. My background in leadership consulting has also been helpful in understanding workplace dynamics.
I am a warm, authentic psychologist who believes we all need a little help sometimes. If you have been feeling stuck in work, relationships, or life in general, we will work on short-term strategies as well as long-term patterns and how to shift these. Whether you have a difficult person in your life, a tough job, or are struggling to understand parts of yourself or others, therapy is a safe place to work through these. I am particularly passionate about helping individuals build thriving, healthy connections for themselves. My background in leadership consulting has also been helpful in understanding workplace dynamics.
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Photo of Sabrina M Brient, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Sabrina M Brient
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Brunswick East, VIC 3057
Waitlist for new clients
Sabrina can offer support in some of the following areas: Neurodivergence (Autistic and ADHDer support, not diagnostic assessments), LGBTIQA+ support, Gender questioning (support, not Gender-affirming reports), Sexuality and intimacy, Anxiety and stress, Diverse abilities (cognitive, communication, learning), Chronic pain, Parenting support.
Sabrina believes in the transformative power of authenticity and self-celebration for individuals of all ages. Her mission is to create a safe and affirming environment where clients of all ages feel able to unmask and focus on their goals without fear of judgment. She takes a person-led approach and firmly believes in combining her skills and training with a client’s expertise in their own experiences to empower them to thrive authentically as themselves. Sabrina’s approach to therapy is inclusive, neuro-divergent affirming, gender diversity affirming, and trauma-informed.
Sabrina can offer support in some of the following areas: Neurodivergence (Autistic and ADHDer support, not diagnostic assessments), LGBTIQA+ support, Gender questioning (support, not Gender-affirming reports), Sexuality and intimacy, Anxiety and stress, Diverse abilities (cognitive, communication, learning), Chronic pain, Parenting support.
Sabrina believes in the transformative power of authenticity and self-celebration for individuals of all ages. Her mission is to create a safe and affirming environment where clients of all ages feel able to unmask and focus on their goals without fear of judgment. She takes a person-led approach and firmly believes in combining her skills and training with a client’s expertise in their own experiences to empower them to thrive authentically as themselves. Sabrina’s approach to therapy is inclusive, neuro-divergent affirming, gender diversity affirming, and trauma-informed.
(03) 7303 3966 View (03) 7303 3966
Photo of Dr Milanda Matthews, Psychologist, PsyBA Endorsed
Dr Milanda Matthews
Psychologist, PsyBA Endorsed
Brunswick East, VIC 3057
People come to therapy for a range of reasons. There might be recurrent problems in relationships or work, there might be disturbing feelings within, or behaviours that are defeating or destructive. Many people find that their usual ways of coping don’t seem to work for them anymore. Whatever the issue, undertaking psychotherapy is an opportunity for you to really understand the underlying drivers of the problem, in the context of your unique life history, and to find a way to transform your suffering. New possibilities for living with greater freedom and creativity might then appear.
People come to therapy for a range of reasons. There might be recurrent problems in relationships or work, there might be disturbing feelings within, or behaviours that are defeating or destructive. Many people find that their usual ways of coping don’t seem to work for them anymore. Whatever the issue, undertaking psychotherapy is an opportunity for you to really understand the underlying drivers of the problem, in the context of your unique life history, and to find a way to transform your suffering. New possibilities for living with greater freedom and creativity might then appear.
(03) 9118 9071 View (03) 9118 9071
Photo of Julian John Motha, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Julian John Motha
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
2 Endorsed
Brunswick East, VIC 3057
Throughout my career, I've been deeply committed to providing treatment that is accessible, equitable, and compassionate. Psychological pain is often overlooked, yet it can be isolating and disorienting. I understand how it feels when your mind seems to be working against you. My goal is to help you understand and work with your mind. Together, we can work towards not just healing, but being the person you want to see yourself as.
Throughout my career, I've been deeply committed to providing treatment that is accessible, equitable, and compassionate. Psychological pain is often overlooked, yet it can be isolating and disorienting. I understand how it feels when your mind seems to be working against you. My goal is to help you understand and work with your mind. Together, we can work towards not just healing, but being the person you want to see yourself as.
0490 915 833 View 0490 915 833
Photo of Asia Swida, Counsellor, MA, AASW
Asia Swida
Counsellor, MA, AASW
Brunswick East, VIC 3057
I offer online and in-person counselling services to individuals, couples and families. I see counselling as deeply collaborative work, where I seek to understand the unique aspects of each person’s lived experience, tailoring my approach specifically to their needs. I value the co-creation of a warm and respectful therapeutic relationship, centring safety and empowerment. I acknowledge that we all resist the impacts of oppressive systems in unique and creative ways. I work with people towards uncovering the many skills, values, commitments and abilities that might allow for change and healing.
I offer online and in-person counselling services to individuals, couples and families. I see counselling as deeply collaborative work, where I seek to understand the unique aspects of each person’s lived experience, tailoring my approach specifically to their needs. I value the co-creation of a warm and respectful therapeutic relationship, centring safety and empowerment. I acknowledge that we all resist the impacts of oppressive systems in unique and creative ways. I work with people towards uncovering the many skills, values, commitments and abilities that might allow for change and healing.
(02) 5120 0120 View (02) 5120 0120
Photo of Jackie Zombolas, Social Worker, AMHSW
Jackie Zombolas
Social Worker, AMHSW
Brunswick East, VIC 3057
With over 20 years’ experience working with: · anxiety, depression and related conditions · work/study stress · trauma, pain and emotional neglect · relationship difficulties · fertility, perinatal care and parenting · sex, sexuality and identity · substance use · grief and loss · chronic and terminal illness
You’ve had symptom relief, but your struggles still persist. Hi, I'm Jackie, a Mental Health Social Worker and Psychodynamic Psychotherapist in Brunswick East. My psychodynamic approach builds your mental health management strategies, while supporting you to understand how your past experiences, patterns and emotions may influence you now. I bring empathy, curiosity and connection, developing trust and understanding over time. I maintain a reliable and continuous practice, with breaks around each school holidays. Weekly therapy can help you feel safe, held, seen and heard, creating capacity to live life in your way.
With over 20 years’ experience working with: · anxiety, depression and related conditions · work/study stress · trauma, pain and emotional neglect · relationship difficulties · fertility, perinatal care and parenting · sex, sexuality and identity · substance use · grief and loss · chronic and terminal illness
You’ve had symptom relief, but your struggles still persist. Hi, I'm Jackie, a Mental Health Social Worker and Psychodynamic Psychotherapist in Brunswick East. My psychodynamic approach builds your mental health management strategies, while supporting you to understand how your past experiences, patterns and emotions may influence you now. I bring empathy, curiosity and connection, developing trust and understanding over time. I maintain a reliable and continuous practice, with breaks around each school holidays. Weekly therapy can help you feel safe, held, seen and heard, creating capacity to live life in your way.
0494 166 308 View 0494 166 308
Photo of Cori Pignatelli, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Cori Pignatelli
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Online Only
Hi. My name is Cori. I am a person-centred, neuroaffirming therapist. My approach is collaborative, respectful, and centred on what matters most to you. I bring a sense of warmth and ease to sessions and understand us to be equals in the therapeutic process. I have significant experience working with people whose identities and experiences are not as often reflected in mainstream spaces and there are no topics off-limits. I work with clients on a broad range of topics and I'm drawn to doing deep work which expands your understanding of self and creates real, lasting changes to your mental health and wellness.
Hi. My name is Cori. I am a person-centred, neuroaffirming therapist. My approach is collaborative, respectful, and centred on what matters most to you. I bring a sense of warmth and ease to sessions and understand us to be equals in the therapeutic process. I have significant experience working with people whose identities and experiences are not as often reflected in mainstream spaces and there are no topics off-limits. I work with clients on a broad range of topics and I'm drawn to doing deep work which expands your understanding of self and creates real, lasting changes to your mental health and wellness.
0476 214 102 View 0476 214 102
Photo of Jess Mackenzie, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
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
Photo of Madeleine Machin - Child Family Work Madeleine Machin, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Child Family Work Madeleine Machin
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Brunswick East, VIC 3057
My experience is in early intervention, childhood behaviour support, anxiety and parenting.
I help people to navigate increasingly busy family lives. Together we explore how to bring a sense of calm and lovingness back into the family.
My experience is in early intervention, childhood behaviour support, anxiety and parenting.
I help people to navigate increasingly busy family lives. Together we explore how to bring a sense of calm and lovingness back into the family.
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Photo of Daria Malamanova - Thinking Otter Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Thinking Otter Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Brunswick East, VIC 3057
I am an Educational and Developmental Psychology Registrar and work with children and adolescents who experience challenges with emotional regulation, anxiety, low mood, social connection, or communication, as well as with parents and caregivers seeking understanding, guidance, and practical strategies to support their children.
With experience across public and private paediatric services, I provide developmental assessments (autism, adhd, thinking and learning differences), therapeutic support for children and adolescents, as well as parenting support.
I am an Educational and Developmental Psychology Registrar and work with children and adolescents who experience challenges with emotional regulation, anxiety, low mood, social connection, or communication, as well as with parents and caregivers seeking understanding, guidance, and practical strategies to support their children.
With experience across public and private paediatric services, I provide developmental assessments (autism, adhd, thinking and learning differences), therapeutic support for children and adolescents, as well as parenting support.
0412 007 748 View 0412 007 748
Photo of Sara Raby, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Sara Raby
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
2 Endorsed
Brunswick East, VIC 3057
Many of my clients come to therapy wanting to understand long-held patterns, improve emotional wellbeing, strengthen relationships, or find a clearer sense of direction. Some people come to therapy knowing what they would like to work on or discuss, others don’t, and we use the space to explore why they might be feeling off. I usually see adolescents and adults experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, burnout, relationship concerns, eating disorders & the transition to motherhood.
Many of my clients come to therapy wanting to understand long-held patterns, improve emotional wellbeing, strengthen relationships, or find a clearer sense of direction. Some people come to therapy knowing what they would like to work on or discuss, others don’t, and we use the space to explore why they might be feeling off. I usually see adolescents and adults experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, burnout, relationship concerns, eating disorders & the transition to motherhood.
(02) 7501 1501 View (02) 7501 1501
Photo of Aneira Connell, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Aneira Connell
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I work with adults, adolescents, and children seeking support for a range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma (PTSD, C-PTSD), grief and loss, obsessive-compulsive disorder, personality diagnoses, relationship or family challenges. My experience also includes the assessment and support of neurodivergence (Autism Spectrum and ADHD), as well as people navigating complex systems like the NDIS or child protection. My work with clients aims to support emotional awareness, self-compassion, and gaining access to their inner resources for positive change.
I work with adults, adolescents, and children seeking support for a range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma (PTSD, C-PTSD), grief and loss, obsessive-compulsive disorder, personality diagnoses, relationship or family challenges. My experience also includes the assessment and support of neurodivergence (Autism Spectrum and ADHD), as well as people navigating complex systems like the NDIS or child protection. My work with clients aims to support emotional awareness, self-compassion, and gaining access to their inner resources for positive change.
0448 751 022 View 0448 751 022
Photo of Dr Ruth Schmidt Neven, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Ruth Schmidt Neven
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I am a clinical psychologist and psychotherapist with over four decades of experience working with adults, parents, couples and also children and families.
I provide couple and marital counselling as well as individual therapy and counselling to empower people to develop meaningful insight into their difficulties that can generate real change within a short period of time. My focus is on the importance of relationships starting with the key relationships of early family life and on understanding how these have an impact on our later life. I help people understand how all behaviour has meaning and how this can be applied in individual and couple relationships, and to great effect as well as in work settings and other relationships
I am a clinical psychologist and psychotherapist with over four decades of experience working with adults, parents, couples and also children and families.
I provide couple and marital counselling as well as individual therapy and counselling to empower people to develop meaningful insight into their difficulties that can generate real change within a short period of time. My focus is on the importance of relationships starting with the key relationships of early family life and on understanding how these have an impact on our later life. I help people understand how all behaviour has meaning and how this can be applied in individual and couple relationships, and to great effect as well as in work settings and other relationships
(03) 9830 0422 View (03) 9830 0422
Photo of Savleen Wellington, Psychologist, MAPS
Savleen Wellington
Psychologist, MAPS
Serves Area
I work with adults healing the lasting impact of childhood trauma, emotional neglect, emotionally immature parenting, and narcissistic family dynamics.
Shame, anxiety, relationship difficulties, people pleasing, perfectionism, and low self-worth are just some of the struggles that can leave you feeling caught in painful patterns that are difficult to change. Many people I work with grew up in families where emotional neglect, criticism, control, or unhealthy family dynamics shaped how they learned to survive. My work helps you understand these patterns with compassion, so they no longer define how you relate to yourself, others, and the world. Together, we work towards building greater self-trust, healthier relationships, and a life no longer organised around survival.
I work with adults healing the lasting impact of childhood trauma, emotional neglect, emotionally immature parenting, and narcissistic family dynamics.
Shame, anxiety, relationship difficulties, people pleasing, perfectionism, and low self-worth are just some of the struggles that can leave you feeling caught in painful patterns that are difficult to change. Many people I work with grew up in families where emotional neglect, criticism, control, or unhealthy family dynamics shaped how they learned to survive. My work helps you understand these patterns with compassion, so they no longer define how you relate to yourself, others, and the world. Together, we work towards building greater self-trust, healthier relationships, and a life no longer organised around survival.
(03) 9068 5037 View (03) 9068 5037
Photo of Gregory Neale, MA
Gregory Neale
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected—whether due to past trauma, anxiety, depression, or struggles with self-expression. They may be seeking a path to healing, self-discovery, or greater emotional clarity. Their goals are to feel more connected to themselves and others, to express emotions freely, and to develop healthier coping strategies.
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected—whether due to past trauma, anxiety, depression, or struggles with self-expression. They may be seeking a path to healing, self-discovery, or greater emotional clarity. Their goals are to feel more connected to themselves and others, to express emotions freely, and to develop healthier coping strategies.
1800 501 200 View 1800 501 200
Photo of Sarah Branchflower, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Sarah Branchflower
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have over a decade of experience supporting adults and adolescents through a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, perinatal mental health concerns, trauma, stress management, life adjustments, and parenting concerns.
I believe in a collaborative approach, tailoring treatment plans to your unique goals and preferences. My goal is to create a compassionate space where we can build insight together, empowering you to navigate life’s challenges with greater confidence and clarity.
I have over a decade of experience supporting adults and adolescents through a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, perinatal mental health concerns, trauma, stress management, life adjustments, and parenting concerns.
I believe in a collaborative approach, tailoring treatment plans to your unique goals and preferences. My goal is to create a compassionate space where we can build insight together, empowering you to navigate life’s challenges with greater confidence and clarity.
0490 885 879 View 0490 885 879
Photo of Virginia Golding - Bridge, Psychotherapist, MA, AMHSW
Virginia Golding - Bridge
Psychotherapist, MA, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have over 25 years’ experience as psychotherapist, working with Individuals, couples and teens, the LGBTQI community and in organisational psychology. I am also a Clinical Supervisor. I hope to support clients to develop greater self awareness and the practical strategies and tools to create desired and positive changes, in order to live a life that aligns with dreams and values, and to navigate individual relationship and life challenges. I have training in EMDR modality, Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, CBT, Aceptance and Commitment Therapy, Transpersonal Psychology and Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy.
I have over 25 years’ experience as psychotherapist, working with Individuals, couples and teens, the LGBTQI community and in organisational psychology. I am also a Clinical Supervisor. I hope to support clients to develop greater self awareness and the practical strategies and tools to create desired and positive changes, in order to live a life that aligns with dreams and values, and to navigate individual relationship and life challenges. I have training in EMDR modality, Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, CBT, Aceptance and Commitment Therapy, Transpersonal Psychology and Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy.
(03) 7003 2568 View (03) 7003 2568
Photo of Jake Iaria, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Jake Iaria
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Jake is a registered psychologist known for his warm, grounded approach. Founder of Wayfind Psychology and Consulting, he supports children, adolescents, and adults to gain insight into any challenges they're experiencing, and develop practical strategies to navigate them. He provides both in-person and Telehealth support to individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, behavioural and social-emotional difficulties, and neurodivergent presentations such as ADHD and autism. Additionally, Jake has delivered school-based support, targeted group programs, and professional development.
Jake is a registered psychologist known for his warm, grounded approach. Founder of Wayfind Psychology and Consulting, he supports children, adolescents, and adults to gain insight into any challenges they're experiencing, and develop practical strategies to navigate them. He provides both in-person and Telehealth support to individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, behavioural and social-emotional difficulties, and neurodivergent presentations such as ADHD and autism. Additionally, Jake has delivered school-based support, targeted group programs, and professional development.
0473 172 472 View 0473 172 472
Photo of Justin Trounson, Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Justin Trounson
Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Serves Area
Justin is a director and co-founder of Connected Minds, a Clinical Psychologist and an academic at Swinburne University. He aims to help people get in touch with what is really important to them and learn how to live healthier, happier, and more meaningful lives. He hopes to provide a safe and supportive environment for clients in which he can work collaboratively with them to develop a better understanding of their unique needs.
Justin is a director and co-founder of Connected Minds, a Clinical Psychologist and an academic at Swinburne University. He aims to help people get in touch with what is really important to them and learn how to live healthier, happier, and more meaningful lives. He hopes to provide a safe and supportive environment for clients in which he can work collaboratively with them to develop a better understanding of their unique needs.
(03) 9070 5798 View (03) 9070 5798
Parenting Therapists
What does therapy for parenting look like?
Therapists may work with parents individually, together, or include the whole family to find solutions for the problems a parent faces. Many parent-based therapies work on a parent’s relationship with their children, problem-solving within the family, and analysis of family dynamics. Therapy conducted remotely by video may be helpful in allowing a therapist to observe how families interact in their own homes.

When should a parent seek therapy?
When behavioral problems begin to disrupt the healthy functioning of a family, it may be a good time to look into therapy. If parents find that children are acting out in school, have started using drugs or alcohol, have developed eating disorders, or other similar red flags, a therapist may be able to help.

How long does therapy take for parenting problems?
Depending on the severity of a family’s challenges and the type of treatment utilized, therapy for parenting can last from weeks to months. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a pragmatic therapy type that can be brief, most often ranging from between 5 and 20 sessions. Structural family therapy, which inspects family dynamics, often takes several months. Parent-child interaction therapy is typically shorter-term, lasting between 10 and 20 sessions. For any therapy, the duration will depend on the progress made and results realized.

Can therapy help parents dealing with burnout or stress?
Parenting is difficult. Parents may dismiss or conceal feelings of exhaustion, overwhelm, or escape ideation—imagining withdrawing from their parental obligations altogether. but left unattended, these feelings can have negative effects on the whole family. A therapist can help parents work on the skills they might need to better cope with the burdens of parenting and help them be the best parents they can be.