Parenting Psychologists and Therapists in Carlton North, VIC

Photo of Claire Ruthven - Claire Ruthven Counselling, Social Worker, AMHSW
Claire Ruthven Counselling
Social Worker, AMHSW
Carlton North, VIC 3054
Hi there! My name is Claire and I'm a counsellor specialising in relationship and couples' therapy. I see both couples and individuals in my practice My approach to counselling starts by allowing space and time to get to know you, and what has brought you to seek support at this time. I enjoy getting to know people from all walks of life, and I aim to create a warm and trusting experience in sessions.
Hi there! My name is Claire and I'm a counsellor specialising in relationship and couples' therapy. I see both couples and individuals in my practice My approach to counselling starts by allowing space and time to get to know you, and what has brought you to seek support at this time. I enjoy getting to know people from all walks of life, and I aim to create a warm and trusting experience in sessions.
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Photo of Christa Winkels, Counsellor, MA, AThR
Christa Winkels
Counsellor, MA, AThR
1 Endorsed
Carlton North, VIC 3054
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 Janet Clark, Psychologist, MAPS
Janet Clark
Psychologist, MAPS
Carlton North, VIC 3054
I have several decades of experience working with adult clients, both individuals and couples. I have worked with a wide variety of issues, from stress to more deep-seated longstanding issues. This can entail short term work or longer term therapy. I have experience working with gay and lesbian clients. Telehealth appointments are also available. Mental Health Care plans are accepted. I am located in the inner north city area and close to bus and tram services.
I have several decades of experience working with adult clients, both individuals and couples. I have worked with a wide variety of issues, from stress to more deep-seated longstanding issues. This can entail short term work or longer term therapy. I have experience working with gay and lesbian clients. Telehealth appointments are also available. Mental Health Care plans are accepted. I am located in the inner north city area and close to bus and tram services.
0419 335 620 View 0419 335 620
Photo of Sarah Branchflower, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Sarah Branchflower
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Carlton North, VIC 3054
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 Kristi Lynch, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Kristi Lynch
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Carlton North, VIC 3054
I am a psychologist with extensive experience across a range of settings. I am a therapist, researcher, lecturer and sit as professional member for VCAT. I provide a safe and supportive environment to explore and resolve challenging personal and relationship issues. I have a passion for working with couples, people looking to overcome trauma, depression, anxiety, anger and grief. I want to help you achieve a better understanding of why you feel the way you do, why you think in a particular way, and to challenge and shift behaviour patterns which are holding you back from experiencing a more connected, fulfilled and meaningful life.
I am a psychologist with extensive experience across a range of settings. I am a therapist, researcher, lecturer and sit as professional member for VCAT. I provide a safe and supportive environment to explore and resolve challenging personal and relationship issues. I have a passion for working with couples, people looking to overcome trauma, depression, anxiety, anger and grief. I want to help you achieve a better understanding of why you feel the way you do, why you think in a particular way, and to challenge and shift behaviour patterns which are holding you back from experiencing a more connected, fulfilled and meaningful life.
(03) 6146 1640 View (03) 6146 1640
Photo of Ozlem Mehmet-Radji, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Ozlem Mehmet-Radji
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
4 Endorsed
Carlton North, VIC 3054
I am passionate about working with people who may be experiencing relationship stress (couples counselling), anxiety, depression, stress management, self-esteem issues, life transitions, burn out, anger management, loss & grief, work related challenges and parenting related challenges.
I am a M.A.C.A Register Counsellor. I have been working with people for over a decade in the field of Mental Health and Wellbeing. I have work, volunteer and lived experiences across different countries. I’ve had the privilege of supporting clients through thousands of hours of counselling. You can think of me as someone in your corner, someone who listens without judgment, while also offering thoughtful and honest reflections to support real, lasting change. My approach to therapy is warm, supportive, collaborative and trauma-informed. I’m invested in the work we do together and approach therapy as a collaborative process.
I am passionate about working with people who may be experiencing relationship stress (couples counselling), anxiety, depression, stress management, self-esteem issues, life transitions, burn out, anger management, loss & grief, work related challenges and parenting related challenges.
I am a M.A.C.A Register Counsellor. I have been working with people for over a decade in the field of Mental Health and Wellbeing. I have work, volunteer and lived experiences across different countries. I’ve had the privilege of supporting clients through thousands of hours of counselling. You can think of me as someone in your corner, someone who listens without judgment, while also offering thoughtful and honest reflections to support real, lasting change. My approach to therapy is warm, supportive, collaborative and trauma-informed. I’m invested in the work we do together and approach therapy as a collaborative process.
(03) 8338 4568 View (03) 8338 4568
Photo of Jedrek Hagedorn, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Jedrek Hagedorn
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Carlton North, VIC 3054
I have worked with emergency service personnel such as police and paramedics, individuals having experienced accidents and bullying at work, men and women struggling with emotional, relationship or drug and alcohol problems, as well as parents and carers of young children needing parenting support.
I use various evidence-based therapeutic modalities, such as psychodynamic therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy. I focus on building a trusting relationship with clients and aim to understand complex beings shaped by their life experience. I am committed to working with people across a range of cultural backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ people and minority groups.
I have worked with emergency service personnel such as police and paramedics, individuals having experienced accidents and bullying at work, men and women struggling with emotional, relationship or drug and alcohol problems, as well as parents and carers of young children needing parenting support.
I use various evidence-based therapeutic modalities, such as psychodynamic therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy. I focus on building a trusting relationship with clients and aim to understand complex beings shaped by their life experience. I am committed to working with people across a range of cultural backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ people and minority groups.
(03) 7003 2437 View (03) 7003 2437
Photo of Naomi Ralph, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA Prov
Naomi Ralph
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA Prov
Carlton North, VIC 3054
Naomi (she/her) brings a bright, curious and compassionate approach to her work with children (8 years +) and adults. She will listen carefully and ask thoughtful questions to help clients make sense of their experience and find ways forward. Naomi operates from a neurodiversity affirming and trauma informed approach. Naomi is an advocate of people from all genders and sexualities. She has a strong research background (trauma and PTSD) and brings that same curiosity and knowledge of the evidence base to her work with clients.
Naomi (she/her) brings a bright, curious and compassionate approach to her work with children (8 years +) and adults. She will listen carefully and ask thoughtful questions to help clients make sense of their experience and find ways forward. Naomi operates from a neurodiversity affirming and trauma informed approach. Naomi is an advocate of people from all genders and sexualities. She has a strong research background (trauma and PTSD) and brings that same curiosity and knowledge of the evidence base to her work with clients.
(03) 7003 2598 View (03) 7003 2598
Photo of Erin Immel, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Erin Immel
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Carlton North, VIC 3054
As an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, I offer one-on-one support around a variety of challenges, including depression, anxiety, self-esteem and self-confidence issues, major life transitions, grief and loss and parenting difficulties.
I utilise a variety of focussed psychological strategies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and general problem solving, relaxation strategies and stress management. I work from a strengths-based approach to help you make positive change for yourself.
As an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, I offer one-on-one support around a variety of challenges, including depression, anxiety, self-esteem and self-confidence issues, major life transitions, grief and loss and parenting difficulties.
I utilise a variety of focussed psychological strategies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and general problem solving, relaxation strategies and stress management. I work from a strengths-based approach to help you make positive change for yourself.
(03) 7003 2365 View (03) 7003 2365
Photo of Dr Karin du Plessis, Counsellor, PhD, ACA-L2
Dr Karin du Plessis
Counsellor, PhD, ACA-L2
4 Endorsed
Carlton North, VIC 3054
Are you frustrated about not feeling heard or understood by your partner? Do you feel you are roommates instead of lovers? Do you feel like you are constantly arguing and not able to see the good in each other? Do you feel really lonely? Do you compare your relationship to other happier couples and feel you fall short? Many couples want a safe space to talk through their issues with an experienced professional, and a clear plan for how to navigate back to closeness, warmth and understanding. I also see couples for pre-marital counselling, and specific problems like sexual difficulties, puarenting, money, in-laws and betrayal.
Are you frustrated about not feeling heard or understood by your partner? Do you feel you are roommates instead of lovers? Do you feel like you are constantly arguing and not able to see the good in each other? Do you feel really lonely? Do you compare your relationship to other happier couples and feel you fall short? Many couples want a safe space to talk through their issues with an experienced professional, and a clear plan for how to navigate back to closeness, warmth and understanding. I also see couples for pre-marital counselling, and specific problems like sexual difficulties, puarenting, money, in-laws and betrayal.
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Photo of Sara Raby, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Sara Raby
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
2 Endorsed
Carlton North, VIC 3054
I’m Sara, a Psychologist based in Melbourne. I work with adolescents and adults navigating life transitions, grief and loss, stress and burnout, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and identity shifts— including the complex transitions of pregnancy, postpartum, and parenthood. People often come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to move forward. Therapy can help to make sense of patterns that no longer serve you, and build strategies aligned with your values. I support individuals from all walks of life who are seeking clarity, emotional support, and meaningful change.
I’m Sara, a Psychologist based in Melbourne. I work with adolescents and adults navigating life transitions, grief and loss, stress and burnout, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and identity shifts— including the complex transitions of pregnancy, postpartum, and parenthood. People often come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to move forward. Therapy can help to make sense of patterns that no longer serve you, and build strategies aligned with your values. I support individuals from all walks of life who are seeking clarity, emotional support, and meaningful change.
(02) 7501 1501 View (02) 7501 1501
Photo of Henry Fowkes, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Henry Fowkes
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Carlton North, VIC 3054
I am a PACFA registered Gestalt psychotherapist passionate about change, embodiment, and relationships. My approach is grounded in Gestalt's holistic, non-pathologising philosophy, believing in your inherent wholeness, resilience, and interconnectedness. I aim to create a welcoming environment that supports you in expanding your awareness and developing inner resources needed to embrace life's challenges. Drawing on my decade as an Open Floor teacher—a therapeutic movement practice—I foster greater mind-body awareness. This embodied approach helps address root issues, supporting your healing, growth, and increased agency in life.
I am a PACFA registered Gestalt psychotherapist passionate about change, embodiment, and relationships. My approach is grounded in Gestalt's holistic, non-pathologising philosophy, believing in your inherent wholeness, resilience, and interconnectedness. I aim to create a welcoming environment that supports you in expanding your awareness and developing inner resources needed to embrace life's challenges. Drawing on my decade as an Open Floor teacher—a therapeutic movement practice—I foster greater mind-body awareness. This embodied approach helps address root issues, supporting your healing, growth, and increased agency in life.
(03) 7003 2161 View (03) 7003 2161
Photo of Tamar Hopkins, Psychotherapist, PhD, PACFA
Tamar Hopkins
Psychotherapist, PhD, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Carlton North, VIC 3054
Tamar Hopkins is a PACFA Reg.Certified Practising Gestalt Psychotherapist with a private clinical practice in Carlton. She welcomes clients from all ethnic, cultural and racial backgrounds, gender identities, neurodiversities, abilities and sexualities. With a history as a community and public interest lawyer and a PhD in law, Tamar has a particular (but not exclusive) interest in working as a psychotherapist to support lawyers and humanitarian workers to address challenges that arise professionally, personally and within the context of their unique history and experience.
Tamar Hopkins is a PACFA Reg.Certified Practising Gestalt Psychotherapist with a private clinical practice in Carlton. She welcomes clients from all ethnic, cultural and racial backgrounds, gender identities, neurodiversities, abilities and sexualities. With a history as a community and public interest lawyer and a PhD in law, Tamar has a particular (but not exclusive) interest in working as a psychotherapist to support lawyers and humanitarian workers to address challenges that arise professionally, personally and within the context of their unique history and experience.
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Photo of Casey Hodges, Social Worker, AASW
Casey Hodges
Social Worker, AASW
1 Endorsed
Carlton North, VIC 3054
Casey has near 10years of specialist experience across several mental health settings: working as a family therapist, parenting counsellor, adolescent and child trauma counsellor and specialist sexual assault counselling.
Casey draws on life attachment and developmental theories, family systems and external systemic issues to support people to make sense of and empower them to manage the issues that they are experiencing. Casey works from a neurodiversity affirming and trauma informed approach and uses a range of modalities such as EMDR, Havening, play therapy, CBT and more.
Casey has near 10years of specialist experience across several mental health settings: working as a family therapist, parenting counsellor, adolescent and child trauma counsellor and specialist sexual assault counselling.
Casey draws on life attachment and developmental theories, family systems and external systemic issues to support people to make sense of and empower them to manage the issues that they are experiencing. Casey works from a neurodiversity affirming and trauma informed approach and uses a range of modalities such as EMDR, Havening, play therapy, CBT and more.
(03) 9012 4350 View (03) 9012 4350
Photo of Andrew St Lawrence, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Andrew St Lawrence
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Carlton North, VIC 3054
My curious and authentic approach is focused around helping people make sense of their problems, and regain a sense of control over their life. While I support people in feeling better, I prioritise working together to build lasting wellbeing.
My curious and authentic approach is focused around helping people make sense of their problems, and regain a sense of control over their life. While I support people in feeling better, I prioritise working together to build lasting wellbeing.
(03) 7043 7070 View (03) 7043 7070
Photo of Louise Du Chesne, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Louise Du Chesne
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Carlton North, VIC 3054
Dr Louise Du Chesne is an experienced clinical psychologist. She has worked extensively with people recovering from traumatic and painful events including family violence, sexual assault and childhood abuse and neglect. She works with couples and individuals around their intimate personal relationships as well as with individuals who experience addiction, anxiety and depression. She also had experience in supporting people with health challenges such as cancer. Louise has a long history of working with members of LGBTIQ++ community. She welcomes referrals for assistance regarding LGBTIQ++ adults, couples and adolescents.
Dr Louise Du Chesne is an experienced clinical psychologist. She has worked extensively with people recovering from traumatic and painful events including family violence, sexual assault and childhood abuse and neglect. She works with couples and individuals around their intimate personal relationships as well as with individuals who experience addiction, anxiety and depression. She also had experience in supporting people with health challenges such as cancer. Louise has a long history of working with members of LGBTIQ++ community. She welcomes referrals for assistance regarding LGBTIQ++ adults, couples and adolescents.
(02) 4504 0154 View (02) 4504 0154
Photo of Sharon Rowland, Counsellor, PACFA
Sharon Rowland
Counsellor, PACFA
Carlton North, VIC 3054
The reason I counsel people is that I have a passion to help people realise their potential. There are times when we need additional support to help deal with a crisis, an ongoing issue, or anything that is holding us back from where we would like to be. Connection is a powerful tool that we can utilise. I offer a safe space for you to explore, challenge, and reflect.
The reason I counsel people is that I have a passion to help people realise their potential. There are times when we need additional support to help deal with a crisis, an ongoing issue, or anything that is holding us back from where we would like to be. Connection is a powerful tool that we can utilise. I offer a safe space for you to explore, challenge, and reflect.
(03) 8203 5093 View (03) 8203 5093
Photo of Joelle Jean-Louis - Joelle Jean-Louis @ First Tuesday Counselling, Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L2
Joelle Jean-Louis @ First Tuesday Counselling
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L2
2 Endorsed
Carlton North, VIC 3054
Hello, and welcome. Taking this first step isn’t always easy, so it’s worth acknowledging that you’re already doing something important by being here. I’m Joëlle. I work with adults and young people (12 years +) across life stages and experiences, and welcome people from a wide range of cultural backgrounds and identities. My experience includes roles in private clinics, secondary schools, and community settings. I see clients with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, neurodivergence, work-related stress, relationship difficulties, and the lasting impacts of childhood and complex trauma.
Hello, and welcome. Taking this first step isn’t always easy, so it’s worth acknowledging that you’re already doing something important by being here. I’m Joëlle. I work with adults and young people (12 years +) across life stages and experiences, and welcome people from a wide range of cultural backgrounds and identities. My experience includes roles in private clinics, secondary schools, and community settings. I see clients with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, neurodivergence, work-related stress, relationship difficulties, and the lasting impacts of childhood and complex trauma.
0407 567 206 View 0407 567 206
Photo of Awombda Codd, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Awombda Codd
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Carlton North, VIC 3054
Awombda is a Gestalt relational psychotherapist who is passionate about change, choice and allowing space to grow. She has worked in the community sector for over 25 years in mental health, homelessness and drug and alcohol. Awombda has extensive experience working with anxiety and depression, PTSD, grief and loss, trauma, relationship difficulties and substance use issues. Awombda has specialist expertise working with the LGBTIQA+ community. In addition to her practice Awombda has taught in the graduate art therapy program at Miecat and is currently on faculty at Gestalt Therapy Australia.
Awombda is a Gestalt relational psychotherapist who is passionate about change, choice and allowing space to grow. She has worked in the community sector for over 25 years in mental health, homelessness and drug and alcohol. Awombda has extensive experience working with anxiety and depression, PTSD, grief and loss, trauma, relationship difficulties and substance use issues. Awombda has specialist expertise working with the LGBTIQA+ community. In addition to her practice Awombda has taught in the graduate art therapy program at Miecat and is currently on faculty at Gestalt Therapy Australia.
(03) 8797 5391 View (03) 8797 5391
Photo of Grecia Sanchez Sanchez, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Grecia Sanchez Sanchez
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Carlton North, VIC 3054
Many of the people who come to me have reached a point where they’re ready for something to shift. They’re tired of repeating the same patterns, feeling disconnected, or sensing that life could be different but not knowing where to begin. Some are navigating depression, anxiety, or grief; others are carrying the impact of trauma, family violence, or crime. Many are simply starting their personal development journey and feel unsure where or how to start. What they all share is a readiness to understand themselves more deeply and take steps toward meaningful change.
Many of the people who come to me have reached a point where they’re ready for something to shift. They’re tired of repeating the same patterns, feeling disconnected, or sensing that life could be different but not knowing where to begin. Some are navigating depression, anxiety, or grief; others are carrying the impact of trauma, family violence, or crime. Many are simply starting their personal development journey and feel unsure where or how to start. What they all share is a readiness to understand themselves more deeply and take steps toward meaningful change.
(03) 5905 9339 View (03) 5905 9339
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.