Psychodynamic Psychologists and Therapists in Clifton Hill, VIC

Photo of Julie Anne McMahon - Nautilus Clinical Therapy, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Nautilus Clinical Therapy
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Clifton Hill, VIC 3068
Using a psychodynamic and psychoanalytic lens, I utilise a range of therapeutic techniques in response to the needs of her clients.
I have a Bachelor of Social Work, Post Grad Dip Family Therapy, and a Master of Child and Adolescent Mental Health. I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Family, and Child & Adolescent Therapist. She is a Member of the Australian Association of Social Workers. I have over 20 years of clinical experience as a therapist, and as a family therapist
Using a psychodynamic and psychoanalytic lens, I utilise a range of therapeutic techniques in response to the needs of her clients.
I have a Bachelor of Social Work, Post Grad Dip Family Therapy, and a Master of Child and Adolescent Mental Health. I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Family, and Child & Adolescent Therapist. She is a Member of the Australian Association of Social Workers. I have over 20 years of clinical experience as a therapist, and as a family therapist
0402 886 456 View 0402 886 456
Photo of Sweeney O'Heare-Young, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Sweeney O'Heare-Young
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Clifton Hill, VIC 3068
A wish to get better, and a willingness to look inside oneself. These are the only essentials for success in therapy. I enjoy helping people with OCD and rumination to regain a sense of agency over their mind, people with depression to understand what is happening inside themselves that is causing their suffering and free themselves from it, people with PTSD to feel safe again and gain self-compassion and heal their nervous system, people with difficulty in relationships to understand what is happening and operate more smoothly, and helping people with many other difficulties to heal and move forward.
A wish to get better, and a willingness to look inside oneself. These are the only essentials for success in therapy. I enjoy helping people with OCD and rumination to regain a sense of agency over their mind, people with depression to understand what is happening inside themselves that is causing their suffering and free themselves from it, people with PTSD to feel safe again and gain self-compassion and heal their nervous system, people with difficulty in relationships to understand what is happening and operate more smoothly, and helping people with many other difficulties to heal and move forward.
(03) 7003 2205 View (03) 7003 2205
Photo of Matthew Austin, Social Worker, AMHSW
Matthew Austin
Social Worker, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Caring, honest & non-judgemental counselling for LGBTQIA+ folk. You may have been feeling bad about yourself and noticed that you have been acting inauthentically. Perhaps you are worried others won’t accept the real you. It’s been difficult to share your self-critical thoughts with others. I help LGBTQIA+ folk with a non-judgmental and caring space to explore and better understand and process their distress.
Caring, honest & non-judgemental counselling for LGBTQIA+ folk. You may have been feeling bad about yourself and noticed that you have been acting inauthentically. Perhaps you are worried others won’t accept the real you. It’s been difficult to share your self-critical thoughts with others. I help LGBTQIA+ folk with a non-judgmental and caring space to explore and better understand and process their distress.
(03) 7020 2779 View (03) 7020 2779
Photo of Ruth Katerelos, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Ruth Katerelos
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
In 0ver 25 years as a therapist, I have worked with a wide range of clients and couples with many and varied issues. I work in a way that is strongly client centred, and emotionally focused. I have worked with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, substance issues, food disorders, grief, child-hood trauma, uncertainty around sexuality and gender, around identity and self confidence/esteem. I work well with clients who are looking to change their lives and who are open to exploring their issues; to challenge their thinking and to examine what isn't working for them and to take practical steps to shift beyond where they are now.
In 0ver 25 years as a therapist, I have worked with a wide range of clients and couples with many and varied issues. I work in a way that is strongly client centred, and emotionally focused. I have worked with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, substance issues, food disorders, grief, child-hood trauma, uncertainty around sexuality and gender, around identity and self confidence/esteem. I work well with clients who are looking to change their lives and who are open to exploring their issues; to challenge their thinking and to examine what isn't working for them and to take practical steps to shift beyond where they are now.
(02) 4504 0223 View (02) 4504 0223
Photo of Michelle Alexandra Fowler, Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Michelle Alexandra Fowler
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I draw on a range of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic therapy, EFT, IFS, ACT, somatic practices, mindfulness + trauma and attachment frameworks.
Therapy is a place to pause, reflect, and understand yourself in new ways. Together, we slow down, make sense of overwhelming feelings and repeating patterns, and explore what’s happening beneath the surface - building the insight needed for genuine change. I'm a Clinical Psychologist and supervisor, with extensive experience across public and private settings. This experience has given me a deep appreciation for the impact of our early years, and the power of human connection and growth. I’m deeply passionate about helping others reconnect with their strengths and create fulfilling, meaningful lives.
I draw on a range of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic therapy, EFT, IFS, ACT, somatic practices, mindfulness + trauma and attachment frameworks.
Therapy is a place to pause, reflect, and understand yourself in new ways. Together, we slow down, make sense of overwhelming feelings and repeating patterns, and explore what’s happening beneath the surface - building the insight needed for genuine change. I'm a Clinical Psychologist and supervisor, with extensive experience across public and private settings. This experience has given me a deep appreciation for the impact of our early years, and the power of human connection and growth. I’m deeply passionate about helping others reconnect with their strengths and create fulfilling, meaningful lives.
0421 700 764 View 0421 700 764
Photo of Wes Hadid, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Wes Hadid
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Clarity Health Care (CHC) provides comprehensive mental health care through a unified team of psychologists, clinical psychologists, and psychiatrists, all working towards your emotional well-being and mental clarity. At our Fitzroy and Hobart clinics, we offer a serene, supportive environment for individuals, couples, and families. Whether you’re managing anxiety, depression, stress, or relationship challenges, our experienced therapists are here to guide you. Our team includes some of the most skilled professionals in Melbourne and Hobart.
Clarity Health Care (CHC) provides comprehensive mental health care through a unified team of psychologists, clinical psychologists, and psychiatrists, all working towards your emotional well-being and mental clarity. At our Fitzroy and Hobart clinics, we offer a serene, supportive environment for individuals, couples, and families. Whether you’re managing anxiety, depression, stress, or relationship challenges, our experienced therapists are here to guide you. Our team includes some of the most skilled professionals in Melbourne and Hobart.
(03) 9448 8028 View (03) 9448 8028
Photo of Dr Pavitra Aran, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Dr Pavitra Aran
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I see adults seeking support for a range of mental health conditions and stressors. I specialise in ADHD, mood disorders, perinatal mental health, and attachment (relationship) issues. I endeavor to provide a warm and relaxed atmosphere in therapy, characterised by a nonjudgmental and collaborative approach.
I see adults seeking support for a range of mental health conditions and stressors. I specialise in ADHD, mood disorders, perinatal mental health, and attachment (relationship) issues. I endeavor to provide a warm and relaxed atmosphere in therapy, characterised by a nonjudgmental and collaborative approach.
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Photo of Zac Teichmann, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Zac Teichmann
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Zac is a clinical psychologist who typically works with clients experiencing difficulties with anxiety, mood, managing emotions, coping with stress or dealing with conflict in relationships. He enjoys working with clients to increase understanding of how they got to where they are now, reduce suffering, build skills, develop goals and meaning. Clients often come in crisis, when they have tried everything and struggled for a long time, but continue treatment long after crisis has resolved to work on creating a fuller and better life. Zac enjoys developing a deeper therapeutic relationship and working long-term.
Zac is a clinical psychologist who typically works with clients experiencing difficulties with anxiety, mood, managing emotions, coping with stress or dealing with conflict in relationships. He enjoys working with clients to increase understanding of how they got to where they are now, reduce suffering, build skills, develop goals and meaning. Clients often come in crisis, when they have tried everything and struggled for a long time, but continue treatment long after crisis has resolved to work on creating a fuller and better life. Zac enjoys developing a deeper therapeutic relationship and working long-term.
(03) 7003 2008 View (03) 7003 2008
Photo of Kevin Vun, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Kevin Vun
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
15 Endorsed
Serves Area
As an empathetic, inclusive counsellor & psychotherapist, I welcome individuals from all walks of life—people of every background, gender, & orientation. My practice is grounded in supporting those who are looking to unpack & explore the complexities of the human experience. As a gay man of colour, I also work alongside queer communities, men, Asian & culturally diverse clients (CALD). I provide a safe, affirming space where you can feel seen & understood. Drawing on a holistic, trauma-informed approach, I encourage self-discovery, resilience, & lasting growth. Let's navigate life's complexities, challenges, & experiences together!
As an empathetic, inclusive counsellor & psychotherapist, I welcome individuals from all walks of life—people of every background, gender, & orientation. My practice is grounded in supporting those who are looking to unpack & explore the complexities of the human experience. As a gay man of colour, I also work alongside queer communities, men, Asian & culturally diverse clients (CALD). I provide a safe, affirming space where you can feel seen & understood. Drawing on a holistic, trauma-informed approach, I encourage self-discovery, resilience, & lasting growth. Let's navigate life's complexities, challenges, & experiences together!
(02) 9100 0511 View (02) 9100 0511
Photo of Cristian Mcheileh - Hourglass Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Hourglass Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Appointments Available - book online at hourglasspsychology.com.au/appointments. I work with young people and adults treating anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, adjustment difficulties, relationship issues, self-harming, addictions, stress, amongst other problems. I also have an interest in working with people across diverse sexuality, sex, and gender spectrums. I assist you to find practical solutions to your problems that fit within your lifestyle, values and personal investment, drawing on your strengths to create meaningful long-term change. I also work with your evolving goals, and offer guidance and support.
Appointments Available - book online at hourglasspsychology.com.au/appointments. I work with young people and adults treating anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, adjustment difficulties, relationship issues, self-harming, addictions, stress, amongst other problems. I also have an interest in working with people across diverse sexuality, sex, and gender spectrums. I assist you to find practical solutions to your problems that fit within your lifestyle, values and personal investment, drawing on your strengths to create meaningful long-term change. I also work with your evolving goals, and offer guidance and support.
(03) 7003 2053 View (03) 7003 2053
Photo of Michael Dods, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Michael Dods
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have completed the core training in Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP), a psychodynamic psychotherapy that focuses on causative factors, not just symptom relief.
I work in a relational and psychodynamically informed way with anxiety, depression, anger issues, relationship issues, chronic/persistent health conditions, grief and loss, significant life decisions, psychedelic or spiritual integration and with patients who have a history of trauma. My post graduate research was in men's health and ecopsycholology.
I have completed the core training in Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP), a psychodynamic psychotherapy that focuses on causative factors, not just symptom relief.
I work in a relational and psychodynamically informed way with anxiety, depression, anger issues, relationship issues, chronic/persistent health conditions, grief and loss, significant life decisions, psychedelic or spiritual integration and with patients who have a history of trauma. My post graduate research was in men's health and ecopsycholology.
(03) 7003 2393 View (03) 7003 2393
Photo of Alexandra Heynatz, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Alexandra Heynatz
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Working with me is a collaborative process, oriented by curiosity, acceptance and choice. Sessions provide opportunity to rekindle awareness for what you most need and want, build trust in your wisest impulses, and reconnect with ways of living that disrupt harm, promote healing and support ease of being.
Working with me is a collaborative process, oriented by curiosity, acceptance and choice. Sessions provide opportunity to rekindle awareness for what you most need and want, build trust in your wisest impulses, and reconnect with ways of living that disrupt harm, promote healing and support ease of being.
(03) 8338 4265 View (03) 8338 4265
Photo of Laura Petrie, Social Worker, AMHSW
Laura Petrie
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
Do you experience aspects of your life as dissatisfying or distressing, this may feel like depression, anxiety, hopelessness or a pervasive self criticism? Such dissatisfaction and distress can be supported through Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy. Laura's focus is the development of a safe, trusting and reliable relationship which becomes the basis for exploring your thoughts and feelings, and generating insights about the sources of your personal struggles. Generating insights open new opportunities for more satisfying connections to self and others, and greater life choices.
Do you experience aspects of your life as dissatisfying or distressing, this may feel like depression, anxiety, hopelessness or a pervasive self criticism? Such dissatisfaction and distress can be supported through Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy. Laura's focus is the development of a safe, trusting and reliable relationship which becomes the basis for exploring your thoughts and feelings, and generating insights about the sources of your personal struggles. Generating insights open new opportunities for more satisfying connections to self and others, and greater life choices.
(03) 8797 5226 View (03) 8797 5226
Photo of Adi Benarroch, Psychotherapist
Adi Benarroch
Psychotherapist
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Her work is grounded in a psychodynamic and attachment-based framework, drawing on principles from interpersonal neurobiology, polyvagal theory, and attachment repair.
Adi is a psychotherapist and creative arts therapist who supports individuals in reconnecting with their bodies, emotions, and inner knowing. She works with adults navigating trauma, life transitions, anxiety, identity exploration, and relationship challenges. Her sessions offer a space to slow down, tune in, and gently explore what’s beneath the surface—at your own pace, in your own way. With a warm and grounded presence, Adi offers therapy as a collaborative, compassionate process where all parts of you are welcome.
Her work is grounded in a psychodynamic and attachment-based framework, drawing on principles from interpersonal neurobiology, polyvagal theory, and attachment repair.
Adi is a psychotherapist and creative arts therapist who supports individuals in reconnecting with their bodies, emotions, and inner knowing. She works with adults navigating trauma, life transitions, anxiety, identity exploration, and relationship challenges. Her sessions offer a space to slow down, tune in, and gently explore what’s beneath the surface—at your own pace, in your own way. With a warm and grounded presence, Adi offers therapy as a collaborative, compassionate process where all parts of you are welcome.
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Photo of Viviane Golan, Psychotherapist, PhD, AASW
Viviane Golan
Psychotherapist, PhD, AASW
Online Only
Viviane has over twenty five years experience working with individuals, couples and families in ways that support growth, clarity, transformation and wholeness. Using a range of therapeutic modalities, Viviane provides a safe and compassionate environment where clients have the opportunity to explore themselves and their lives in ever deepening and enriching ways.
Viviane has over twenty five years experience working with individuals, couples and families in ways that support growth, clarity, transformation and wholeness. Using a range of therapeutic modalities, Viviane provides a safe and compassionate environment where clients have the opportunity to explore themselves and their lives in ever deepening and enriching ways.
(08) 9126 9057 View (08) 9126 9057
Photo of Paula-Jane Buckland, Counsellor, PACFA
Paula-Jane Buckland
Counsellor, PACFA
Serves Area
Paula-Jane is an accredited mental health counsellor and sex therapist working with individuals and intimate couples; providing care for a diverse range of issues and concerns. The greatest joy of her role is seeing people leaving her care feeling content, lighter and calm within themselves and hope for their future. Paula-Jane is committed to holding a space that is calm accepting trusting safe and welcoming, allowing you to feel at ease and move at a pace comfortable to you. Welcoming all people from different communities, lifestyles and abilities.
Paula-Jane is an accredited mental health counsellor and sex therapist working with individuals and intimate couples; providing care for a diverse range of issues and concerns. The greatest joy of her role is seeing people leaving her care feeling content, lighter and calm within themselves and hope for their future. Paula-Jane is committed to holding a space that is calm accepting trusting safe and welcoming, allowing you to feel at ease and move at a pace comfortable to you. Welcoming all people from different communities, lifestyles and abilities.
0450 797 960 View 0450 797 960
Photo of Jessica Armitage, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Jessica Armitage
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I am a Clinical Psychologist and Psychodynamic Psychotherapist based in Thornbury.
I often work with individuals who are suffering from anxiety, depression, relationship and family issues, traumatic experiences and substance use. Before private practice I worked in private hospitals, alcohol and drug services, domestic violence and sexual assault services and child and family services.
I am a Clinical Psychologist and Psychodynamic Psychotherapist based in Thornbury.
I often work with individuals who are suffering from anxiety, depression, relationship and family issues, traumatic experiences and substance use. Before private practice I worked in private hospitals, alcohol and drug services, domestic violence and sexual assault services and child and family services.
0436 916 085 View 0436 916 085
Photo of Melissa Thomas, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Melissa Thomas
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Melissa uses an integrative counselling approach drawing from interventions including: Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Schema Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.
Melissa has a warm, compassionate and playful nature. She aims to provide a safe, accepting and enjoyable space to connect authentically with clients. She supports her clients to uncover their hopes for the future, and to understand the internal and external barriers to their personal and relational growth.
Melissa uses an integrative counselling approach drawing from interventions including: Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Schema Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.
Melissa has a warm, compassionate and playful nature. She aims to provide a safe, accepting and enjoyable space to connect authentically with clients. She supports her clients to uncover their hopes for the future, and to understand the internal and external barriers to their personal and relational growth.
0490 744 262 View 0490 744 262
Photo of Melissa Collins, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Melissa Collins
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Serves Area
My approach is gentle, collaborative, and insight-oriented, drawing on evidence-based therapies such as CBT, ACT, attachment-informed and psychodynamic approaches.
I work with adults navigating anxiety, trauma, grief, burnout, and major life transitions. My approach is collaborative and insight-oriented, drawing on CBT, ACT, and attachment-based therapies within a trauma-informed framework.
My approach is gentle, collaborative, and insight-oriented, drawing on evidence-based therapies such as CBT, ACT, attachment-informed and psychodynamic approaches.
I work with adults navigating anxiety, trauma, grief, burnout, and major life transitions. My approach is collaborative and insight-oriented, drawing on CBT, ACT, and attachment-based therapies within a trauma-informed framework.
0422 043 163 View 0422 043 163
Photo of Freya Hanly - Freya Hanly Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Freya Hanly Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
My interest lies in helping individuals living with trauma, anxiety-related disorders, interpersonal difficulties and emotional regulation issues. I have a particular passion for working with C-PTSD and sexual trauma. I am dedicated to helping clients improve their relationship with themselves (and by extension others) through developing a self-compassionate understanding of their emotional difficulties. From this place we move forward together to process "stuck" memories and explore the development of new ways of being in the world.
My interest lies in helping individuals living with trauma, anxiety-related disorders, interpersonal difficulties and emotional regulation issues. I have a particular passion for working with C-PTSD and sexual trauma. I am dedicated to helping clients improve their relationship with themselves (and by extension others) through developing a self-compassionate understanding of their emotional difficulties. From this place we move forward together to process "stuck" memories and explore the development of new ways of being in the world.
(02) 4504 0152 View (02) 4504 0152
Psychodynamic Therapists
Is psychodynamic therapy evidence-based?
Studies have found psychodynamic therapy to be effective in treating conditions like social anxiety, eating disorders, chronic pain, some personality disorders, and depression; indeed, some studies have found it to be just as effective as CBT or medication. What’s more, several studies have found that the benefits of psychodynamic therapy tend to endure—even grow—long after treatment has ended.

How long does psychodynamic therapy last?
Unlike CBT and other more structured forms of therapy, psychodynamic therapy tends to be open-ended and may not be limited to a set number of sessions. It is common for clients to be in therapy for a year or longer and to see their therapist one to three times a week, though the exact schedule and timeline may vary depending on a client’s challenges and progress. However, brief psychodynamic therapy is available, which tends to be more goal-oriented and typically unfolds over 16 to 30 sessions.

Does psychodynamic therapy work?
Research finds that psychodynamic therapy can help someone manage or reduce symptoms of diagnosable mental health conditions like depression or anxiety. The modality may also offer a range of benefits that are harder to measure but just as valuable—such as increased self-worth or healthier relationships. While no therapy type will work for everyone, research and anecdotal evidence suggest that psychodynamic therapy can be highly effective.

What are the limitations of psychodynamic therapy?
Some meta-analyses have concluded that there is little evidence to suggest that psychodynamic therapy can effectively treat certain mental health conditions such as PTSD, OCD, or psychosis, though it is sometimes used to do so. More broadly, the open-ended, free-association structure of psychodynamic therapy may be frustrating for clients who prefer a more structured, time-limited, or goal-oriented approach.