Codependency Psychologists and Therapists in Clayton, VIC
Opening Doors Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Leah Smith, Director and Principal Psychologist of "Opening Doors Psychology" has a passion for working with adolescents (14+ years), young adults/adults, and also works with some couples. Leah is particularly interested in working with eating disorders and body image concerns, as well as, anxiety disorders, trauma, neurodivergence and interpersonal/relational difficulties. Leah strives to provide a safe space for clients to develop a deeper understanding of themselves, guide clients to and equip them with the necessary skills, to enable them to manage their symptoms and unique difficulties, and address ongoing problematic patterns.
Leah Smith, Director and Principal Psychologist of "Opening Doors Psychology" has a passion for working with adolescents (14+ years), young adults/adults, and also works with some couples. Leah is particularly interested in working with eating disorders and body image concerns, as well as, anxiety disorders, trauma, neurodivergence and interpersonal/relational difficulties. Leah strives to provide a safe space for clients to develop a deeper understanding of themselves, guide clients to and equip them with the necessary skills, to enable them to manage their symptoms and unique difficulties, and address ongoing problematic patterns.
I believe when we feel genuinely heard and understood, we are able to access greater insight, healing and sustainable change. I have a special interest in supporting clients with anxiety, burnout, stress, complex trauma, relationship difficulties, neurodivergent experiences (Autism, ADHD, OCD), negative self-image and perfectionistic tendencies. I work with clients who want to better understand themselves and heal from the roots of their presenting challenges, as well as learn and adopt evidence-based strategies to help them live a more meaningful life in accordance with their goals and values.
I believe when we feel genuinely heard and understood, we are able to access greater insight, healing and sustainable change. I have a special interest in supporting clients with anxiety, burnout, stress, complex trauma, relationship difficulties, neurodivergent experiences (Autism, ADHD, OCD), negative self-image and perfectionistic tendencies. I work with clients who want to better understand themselves and heal from the roots of their presenting challenges, as well as learn and adopt evidence-based strategies to help them live a more meaningful life in accordance with their goals and values.
I work with people who are feeling overwhelmed and stressed; are being held back by anxiety or depression; are concerned about their drug and/or alcohol use; or are trying to support someone with substance use issues. I understand that these issues can be complex and multifaceted. I work with people to manage their issues while learning new coping skills, building their self-esteem and capacity using their strengths in order to achieve their goals.
I work with people who are feeling overwhelmed and stressed; are being held back by anxiety or depression; are concerned about their drug and/or alcohol use; or are trying to support someone with substance use issues. I understand that these issues can be complex and multifaceted. I work with people to manage their issues while learning new coping skills, building their self-esteem and capacity using their strengths in order to achieve their goals.
Navigating the intricate landscape of mental health, I specialize in supporting adolescents, young adults, and middle-aged individuals. From attachment and trauma to anxiety, relationship challenges, career stress, grief, depression, bipolar disorder, self-harm, substance abuse, low self-esteem, ADHD, complex trauma, and BPD – I address a diverse range of concerns. With a compassionate approach, we embark on a healing journey tailored to the unique needs of each individual, fostering resilience and well-being. Together, we navigate the complexities, promoting growth and empowerment in the face of various mental health challenges.
Navigating the intricate landscape of mental health, I specialize in supporting adolescents, young adults, and middle-aged individuals. From attachment and trauma to anxiety, relationship challenges, career stress, grief, depression, bipolar disorder, self-harm, substance abuse, low self-esteem, ADHD, complex trauma, and BPD – I address a diverse range of concerns. With a compassionate approach, we embark on a healing journey tailored to the unique needs of each individual, fostering resilience and well-being. Together, we navigate the complexities, promoting growth and empowerment in the face of various mental health challenges.
Sandra is an experienced bilingual clinical psychologist who sees different people from all walks of life, as circumstances bring many of us to therapy at different points or phases in life and for a variety of reasons. Sandra’s therapy setting provides a caring, not judgemental, supportive space where people can feel safe to express themselves and their inner feelings and where the person can have the experience to feel held in an accepting, respectful and empathetic way. This catharsis provides the individual with a freedom to unburden, relax and try to find a new stable foundation for a more fulfilling future and experiences.
Sandra is an experienced bilingual clinical psychologist who sees different people from all walks of life, as circumstances bring many of us to therapy at different points or phases in life and for a variety of reasons. Sandra’s therapy setting provides a caring, not judgemental, supportive space where people can feel safe to express themselves and their inner feelings and where the person can have the experience to feel held in an accepting, respectful and empathetic way. This catharsis provides the individual with a freedom to unburden, relax and try to find a new stable foundation for a more fulfilling future and experiences.
Hello, I'm AJ (Amanda), a South Asian Counsellor & Psychotherapist based in Naarm/Melbourne.
Accessing affordable mental health support can be difficult, so I offer sliding scale fees on a case-by-case basis for those experiencing financial hardship.
Whether you're navigating a specific challenge or exploring deeper life patterns, I offer kind, trauma-informed, evidence-based support for anxiety, depression, stress, grief, life transitions, self-esteem, cultural or religious concerns, LGBTQIA+ experiences, substance use, chronic health conditions, and more.
Get in touch for a free 15 minute consultation today.
Hello, I'm AJ (Amanda), a South Asian Counsellor & Psychotherapist based in Naarm/Melbourne.
Accessing affordable mental health support can be difficult, so I offer sliding scale fees on a case-by-case basis for those experiencing financial hardship.
Whether you're navigating a specific challenge or exploring deeper life patterns, I offer kind, trauma-informed, evidence-based support for anxiety, depression, stress, grief, life transitions, self-esteem, cultural or religious concerns, LGBTQIA+ experiences, substance use, chronic health conditions, and more.
Get in touch for a free 15 minute consultation today.
More Therapists Nearby
Do you feel fundamentally broken? Do you find yourself falling back into people pleasing or controlling behaviours, even though you really want to change them? Do you keep finding yourself in relationships with the same sorts of people or in the same type of dynamic?
Lasting change can be possible by being gently curious about what parts are bringing us back into our old patterns, and what beliefs or emotions those parts carry. With practice and insight, you can be aware which parts are driving your actions and compassionately make new choices.
Do you feel fundamentally broken? Do you find yourself falling back into people pleasing or controlling behaviours, even though you really want to change them? Do you keep finding yourself in relationships with the same sorts of people or in the same type of dynamic?
Lasting change can be possible by being gently curious about what parts are bringing us back into our old patterns, and what beliefs or emotions those parts carry. With practice and insight, you can be aware which parts are driving your actions and compassionately make new choices.
Through the Boundaries & Belonging program, Melissa supports women in healing Codependency and Development Trauma by uncovering the root cause and teaching embodiment practices for healing nervous system wounds, allowing you to thrive in relationships and live the life you want.
I help you to understand your core trauma; get to the root of your issues and teach practical tools to support and regulate your nervouse system. You can heal the trauma in your body so you can feel secure in yourself and have the confidence to set boundaries and have healthy relatationships.
Through the Boundaries & Belonging program, Melissa supports women in healing Codependency and Development Trauma by uncovering the root cause and teaching embodiment practices for healing nervous system wounds, allowing you to thrive in relationships and live the life you want.
I help you to understand your core trauma; get to the root of your issues and teach practical tools to support and regulate your nervouse system. You can heal the trauma in your body so you can feel secure in yourself and have the confidence to set boundaries and have healthy relatationships.
I work with individuals, couples and families on their relationships - addressing challenges in some stages of the relationship, communication issues, relational crisis/trauma, or other complex matters (neurodiversity, psychosexual issues, parenting).
I help my clients improve communication and connections with others, identify obstacles, remove them, and support relational and personal growth.
I work with individuals, couples and families on their relationships - addressing challenges in some stages of the relationship, communication issues, relational crisis/trauma, or other complex matters (neurodiversity, psychosexual issues, parenting).
I help my clients improve communication and connections with others, identify obstacles, remove them, and support relational and personal growth.
For men who feel stuck, disconnected, or under pressure to “hold it together.” You may be struggling with confidence, emotional struggles: anger, anxiety, stress, intimacy, or relationship breakdowns. Some are navigating separation, fatherhood, or conflicts with a partner. Others want clarity, purpose, and stronger boundaries. You want practical tools, honest conversation, and real change, not just talking, but understanding why you think and feel this way and how to move forward with strength and self-respect.
For men who feel stuck, disconnected, or under pressure to “hold it together.” You may be struggling with confidence, emotional struggles: anger, anxiety, stress, intimacy, or relationship breakdowns. Some are navigating separation, fatherhood, or conflicts with a partner. Others want clarity, purpose, and stronger boundaries. You want practical tools, honest conversation, and real change, not just talking, but understanding why you think and feel this way and how to move forward with strength and self-respect.
I strongly believe that psychological support should be a possibility for everyone, not just a luxury for the few. I am a trained Counselling professional with a passion for helping women like you fall in love with their minds and bodies, live their true emotions and find new ways to improve their well-being. I can support you while you learn more about your emotions and bodily resources, discover how to increase your self-esteem and become more resilient by overcoming your limiting beliefs about your beautiful self.
I strongly believe that psychological support should be a possibility for everyone, not just a luxury for the few. I am a trained Counselling professional with a passion for helping women like you fall in love with their minds and bodies, live their true emotions and find new ways to improve their well-being. I can support you while you learn more about your emotions and bodily resources, discover how to increase your self-esteem and become more resilient by overcoming your limiting beliefs about your beautiful self.
Draga Jevtic is a highly experienced Organisational and Counselling Psychologist with over 30 years’ experience across clinical and organisational settings. She has held senior leadership roles and served on numerous boards and advisory committees. She is known for her depth of experience and thoughtful, grounded approach. Her dual expertise enables her to support professional women navigate complex personal and professional challenges including burnout, compassion fatigue, trauma, leadership demands, relationships and significant life transitions, offering both insight and functional strategies to support sustainable change.
Draga Jevtic is a highly experienced Organisational and Counselling Psychologist with over 30 years’ experience across clinical and organisational settings. She has held senior leadership roles and served on numerous boards and advisory committees. She is known for her depth of experience and thoughtful, grounded approach. Her dual expertise enables her to support professional women navigate complex personal and professional challenges including burnout, compassion fatigue, trauma, leadership demands, relationships and significant life transitions, offering both insight and functional strategies to support sustainable change.
Danu is a Melbourne-based psychologist who believes therapy is a paradox of acceptance and challenge. It is a puzzle to be solved with patients who have some psychic or social injury and are looking for someone to help them accept both who they are, and who they can be. Danu has a PhD (Clinical Psychology) and was a lecturer and a clinician in justice and hospital settings. Danu is also expert in psychological assessments.
Danu is a Melbourne-based psychologist who believes therapy is a paradox of acceptance and challenge. It is a puzzle to be solved with patients who have some psychic or social injury and are looking for someone to help them accept both who they are, and who they can be. Danu has a PhD (Clinical Psychology) and was a lecturer and a clinician in justice and hospital settings. Danu is also expert in psychological assessments.
I work with individuals, couples, and teenagers who want to better understand themselves and their relationships. Many come feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected - sometimes after holding things together for a long time, or when familiar ways of coping no longer work. They’re often looking for clarity, relief, or a different way forward. In our work together, we slow things down, make sense of what’s been happening, and begin to find a path that feels steadier, more meaningful, and more aligned with who you are.
I work with individuals, couples, and teenagers who want to better understand themselves and their relationships. Many come feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected - sometimes after holding things together for a long time, or when familiar ways of coping no longer work. They’re often looking for clarity, relief, or a different way forward. In our work together, we slow things down, make sense of what’s been happening, and begin to find a path that feels steadier, more meaningful, and more aligned with who you are.
If you think things could be better, you're probably right. It's hard to ignore that voice inside us that's looking for the right person to help us take the first steps. For those working through challenges, including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, stress and anger management, relationship difficulties/divorce, major life transitions, trauma, abuse, grief and loss, illness and major injury, it helps to have someone who not only understands your situation, but has both the personal experience with what it takes to get to a place where 'better' is an option, combined with the professional expertise to get you there.
If you think things could be better, you're probably right. It's hard to ignore that voice inside us that's looking for the right person to help us take the first steps. For those working through challenges, including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, stress and anger management, relationship difficulties/divorce, major life transitions, trauma, abuse, grief and loss, illness and major injury, it helps to have someone who not only understands your situation, but has both the personal experience with what it takes to get to a place where 'better' is an option, combined with the professional expertise to get you there.
Do you suffer from unprocessed trauma or feel stuck, anxious, depressed? Are you experiencing sex or gender identity issues, interpersonal struggles or emotional dysregulation? This includes relationships with fear, self-doubt, shame and guilt, and major life transitions. Through our sessions you will see a change in your nervous system and emotional regulation, self-awareness of patterns and behaviours, self-compassion and a larger vitality for life. I offer support for individuals and couples experiencing relationship challenges particularly ethical non monogamy and kink. Couples will experience a new found sense of understanding.
Do you suffer from unprocessed trauma or feel stuck, anxious, depressed? Are you experiencing sex or gender identity issues, interpersonal struggles or emotional dysregulation? This includes relationships with fear, self-doubt, shame and guilt, and major life transitions. Through our sessions you will see a change in your nervous system and emotional regulation, self-awareness of patterns and behaviours, self-compassion and a larger vitality for life. I offer support for individuals and couples experiencing relationship challenges particularly ethical non monogamy and kink. Couples will experience a new found sense of understanding.
I'm George (they/them), a Gestalt Therapist offering relational, somatic, process-oriented therapy for individuals, couples & relationships. I am passionate about working with people from all backgrounds; straight, queer, LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, non-monogamous; as well as other therapists, social & mental health workers, sex workers. My interest include relationship issues, life transitions, self-expression and self-esteem. My approach is holistic and collaborative, exploring together with curiosity, care & attention to what feels most alive for you. I offer a compassionate and grounded space where you're welcome just as you are.
I'm George (they/them), a Gestalt Therapist offering relational, somatic, process-oriented therapy for individuals, couples & relationships. I am passionate about working with people from all backgrounds; straight, queer, LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, non-monogamous; as well as other therapists, social & mental health workers, sex workers. My interest include relationship issues, life transitions, self-expression and self-esteem. My approach is holistic and collaborative, exploring together with curiosity, care & attention to what feels most alive for you. I offer a compassionate and grounded space where you're welcome just as you are.
You might be here because the bad days never seem to end.... perhaps you're feeling emotionally exhausted, disconnected or you’re stuck in a cycle of negative thought patterns like, “I’m not good enough” or “I'll never change or get better”. Maybe you're struggling with anxiety, chronic stress, fatigue, depression, emotional numbness, difficult memories.... or past traumatic experiences that continues to affect your life today? There may be tension in your body that feels more emotional in origin, or you're feeling disconnected from yourself and others. Perhaps it's finally beginning to take a toll on you, or your relationships?
You might be here because the bad days never seem to end.... perhaps you're feeling emotionally exhausted, disconnected or you’re stuck in a cycle of negative thought patterns like, “I’m not good enough” or “I'll never change or get better”. Maybe you're struggling with anxiety, chronic stress, fatigue, depression, emotional numbness, difficult memories.... or past traumatic experiences that continues to affect your life today? There may be tension in your body that feels more emotional in origin, or you're feeling disconnected from yourself and others. Perhaps it's finally beginning to take a toll on you, or your relationships?
Life can feel heavy at times — anxiety, relationship stress, self-criticism, and major life transitions can leave you feeling stuck or unsure where to turn. I offer a warm, grounded space where you can understand what you're going through, reconnect with yourself, and find a way forward.
I support adults navigating:
Anxiety and stress Relationship and attachment patterns
Low self-esteem
Life transitions (motherhood, career changes, identity shifts)
Emotional overwhelm
My approach is particularly helpful for people who are highly self-aware yet still find themselves repeating old patterns feeling disconnected or unsure how to change
Life can feel heavy at times — anxiety, relationship stress, self-criticism, and major life transitions can leave you feeling stuck or unsure where to turn. I offer a warm, grounded space where you can understand what you're going through, reconnect with yourself, and find a way forward.
I support adults navigating:
Anxiety and stress Relationship and attachment patterns
Low self-esteem
Life transitions (motherhood, career changes, identity shifts)
Emotional overwhelm
My approach is particularly helpful for people who are highly self-aware yet still find themselves repeating old patterns feeling disconnected or unsure how to change
Many of the people who come to see me are thoughtful, capable gay men who look like they’re doing well on the outside but inside feel anxious, disconnected, stuck in repeating relationship patterns, or unsure how to build the kind of intimacy and life they actually want.
You might find yourself overthinking conversations, struggling with dating or relationships, feeling lonely despite being socially connected, or carrying a quiet sense of shame, self-criticism, or not quite belonging. Sometimes clients arrive knowing something needs to change but not yet having words for what that is.
Many of the people who come to see me are thoughtful, capable gay men who look like they’re doing well on the outside but inside feel anxious, disconnected, stuck in repeating relationship patterns, or unsure how to build the kind of intimacy and life they actually want.
You might find yourself overthinking conversations, struggling with dating or relationships, feeling lonely despite being socially connected, or carrying a quiet sense of shame, self-criticism, or not quite belonging. Sometimes clients arrive knowing something needs to change but not yet having words for what that is.
Nearby Codependency Therapists Searches for Clayton
- Ashburton
- Blackburn
- Box Hill
- Burwood
- Carnegie
- Glen Waverley
- Malvern East
- Mount Waverley
- Murrumbeena
- Oakleigh
- Rowville
- Vermont
Codependency Therapists
What therapy types help with codependency problems?
Both couples and family therapy and cognitive and behavioral therapy (CBT) can help with the relationship difficulties referred to as codependency. Such problems typically include inappropriate feelings of responsibility for a loved one’s destructive behavior, irrational patterns of thinking about such behavior, and family interaction patterns in which the needs of one troubled member override the needs of others in a household.
What happens in therapy for codependency?
Spouses and family members learn and practice how to interact and support each other in a healthy way without sacrificing their own needs or well-being. They learn the limits of their responsibility for their loved ones and correct faulty patterns of thinking and feeling that underlie codependent behavior. Individuals may be encouraged to nurture an array of social relationships and to cultivate their own talents and interests so that they develop a healthy sense of self outside the family.
How does therapy help a person or couple overcome codependency?
Therapy helps people establish healthy ways of being in a relationship. Spouses and family members learn how to nurture and support one another without sacrificing their own needs or allowing the needs of one person to dominate the dynamic. Individuals learn how to say no and set boundaries, and how to maintain their own identity and self-esteem. Therapy helps people understand that they are not responsible for the feelings and actions of others. It also helps individuals deal with the turbulence that can come from living with a person suffering from such conditions as substance abuse and mental illness.
What is the goal of therapy for codependency?
One goal of therapy for codependency is to alleviate feelings of responsibility for and correct irrational patterns of thinking about loved ones whose behavioral problems override the needs of others in a household. Therapy helps people establish healthy boundaries of behavior and speak up for their own needs in a relationship. In addition, people learn how to maintain a healthy relationship, one in which both parties give and receive equally and are able to retain their own identity.