Internal Family Systems (IFS) Psychologists and Therapists in Dandenong, VIC

Kathleen Mills
Verified Verified
Serves Area
For reasons that I cannot explain, the more complex the clients needs, the more likely they are to find themselves on my doorstep. Commonly, I have clients tell me in their first session that 'they have many issues and no one else has ever been able to help them before' - this is generally an indication that we will build a lasting relationship. I am patient, very open-minded and laid back in my approach whilst still maintaining professionalism. If you fear therapy because of the overly clinical approach then you will find my way of forming a therapeutic alliance refreshing and endearing.
For reasons that I cannot explain, the more complex the clients needs, the more likely they are to find themselves on my doorstep. Commonly, I have clients tell me in their first session that 'they have many issues and no one else has ever been able to help them before' - this is generally an indication that we will build a lasting relationship. I am patient, very open-minded and laid back in my approach whilst still maintaining professionalism. If you fear therapy because of the overly clinical approach then you will find my way of forming a therapeutic alliance refreshing and endearing.
(03) 5909 9913 View (03) 5909 9913
Ruth Adams Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I have trained in the following therapeutic modalitites: CBT, ACT, IFS, DBT, schema, narrative, and family therapy
I am a holistic Psychologist with over ten years experience working with people who have experienced trauma, complex relationships, financial and work related stress, as well as parenting and generational tension.
I have trained in the following therapeutic modalitites: CBT, ACT, IFS, DBT, schema, narrative, and family therapy
I am a holistic Psychologist with over ten years experience working with people who have experienced trauma, complex relationships, financial and work related stress, as well as parenting and generational tension.
(03) 7500 5881 View (03) 7500 5881
Nirvana Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I’m Shanilka, a registered psychologist and founder of Nirvana Psychology which is located in Oakleigh. I provide therapy to individuals across Melbourne, with Telehealth available Australia-wide. I work with adolescents and adults, from complex concerns to NDIS, to everyday challenges that come with work, relationships, identity, stress, or major life transitions. My approach to therapy is grounded in patience, compassion, and deep respect for each person’s unique journey. Born and raised in Australia with a proud Sri Lankan heritage, I bring a nuanced understanding of multicultural identity and cross-cultural awareness.
I’m Shanilka, a registered psychologist and founder of Nirvana Psychology which is located in Oakleigh. I provide therapy to individuals across Melbourne, with Telehealth available Australia-wide. I work with adolescents and adults, from complex concerns to NDIS, to everyday challenges that come with work, relationships, identity, stress, or major life transitions. My approach to therapy is grounded in patience, compassion, and deep respect for each person’s unique journey. Born and raised in Australia with a proud Sri Lankan heritage, I bring a nuanced understanding of multicultural identity and cross-cultural awareness.
(03) 8771 5863 View (03) 8771 5863
Tania Ahkin
Counsellor
Serves Area
You give so much to others — your family, your relationship, your work — but somewhere along the way, you’ve lost connection with yourself. Maybe you’re: In a relationship that feels disconnected or painful A burnt-out mother who’s forgotten who she is Single and tired of repeating the same dating patterns In a partnership that’s struggling, and you don’t know what to do next You’re craving clarity, connection, and real support. You want to feel seen, valued, and like you again — not just surviving, but truly living. You're not broken. You're not failing. You're just ready for change — and you don’t have to do it alone.
You give so much to others — your family, your relationship, your work — but somewhere along the way, you’ve lost connection with yourself. Maybe you’re: In a relationship that feels disconnected or painful A burnt-out mother who’s forgotten who she is Single and tired of repeating the same dating patterns In a partnership that’s struggling, and you don’t know what to do next You’re craving clarity, connection, and real support. You want to feel seen, valued, and like you again — not just surviving, but truly living. You're not broken. You're not failing. You're just ready for change — and you don’t have to do it alone.
(03) 8771 5149 View (03) 8771 5149
Nav Sohal
Counsellor, AASW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you are looking for caring, safe and confidential support you are in the right place! I’m Nav. I’m Accredited Social Worker/ Counsellor and very passionate to work with people who are experiencing challenges in their life. I have over 15 years of experience with adults and teenagers, who have experienced mental health issues, family violence, relationship, trauma related issues, childhood trauma, anger management, PTSD, anxiety, depression, stress, self-esteem, BPD, grief and loss, parenting, workplace issues leading to trauma, and struggles in life.
If you are looking for caring, safe and confidential support you are in the right place! I’m Nav. I’m Accredited Social Worker/ Counsellor and very passionate to work with people who are experiencing challenges in their life. I have over 15 years of experience with adults and teenagers, who have experienced mental health issues, family violence, relationship, trauma related issues, childhood trauma, anger management, PTSD, anxiety, depression, stress, self-esteem, BPD, grief and loss, parenting, workplace issues leading to trauma, and struggles in life.
(03) 5905 9797 View (03) 5905 9797
Eva Truong
Counsellor, PACFA
Online Only
I'm Eva Truong, a Registered Clinical Counsellor dedicated to supporting individuals, couples, and families through life's challenges and transitions. I provide a compassionate, person-centred, and strength-based approach to help clients build resilience, insight, and lasting change. I work with children (5+ years), adolescents, adults, and older adults experiencing ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, grief and loss, workplace bullying, relationship difficulties, behavioural concerns, dementia-related challenges, career transitions, and family conflict. Together, we create practical pathways toward healing.
I'm Eva Truong, a Registered Clinical Counsellor dedicated to supporting individuals, couples, and families through life's challenges and transitions. I provide a compassionate, person-centred, and strength-based approach to help clients build resilience, insight, and lasting change. I work with children (5+ years), adolescents, adults, and older adults experiencing ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, grief and loss, workplace bullying, relationship difficulties, behavioural concerns, dementia-related challenges, career transitions, and family conflict. Together, we create practical pathways toward healing.
(03) 7302 2563 View (03) 7302 2563
Sue Guzick
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello, I’m Sue. I am a Counsellor, Art Therapist, and established Bright Black Art Therapy & Counselling in 2018. You might be considering therapy with long experience of feeling anxious and overwhelmed. Although you have tried many things, it’s not working as well as you would like. I offer a person-centred style, towards understanding YOU and your experiences. Together we use a range of therapeutic methods and choose what is most helpful for you. Therapy plans can include development and practicing new ways for you to work with your most challenging experiences, so they feel like less of a barrier to do what matters most to you.
Hello, I’m Sue. I am a Counsellor, Art Therapist, and established Bright Black Art Therapy & Counselling in 2018. You might be considering therapy with long experience of feeling anxious and overwhelmed. Although you have tried many things, it’s not working as well as you would like. I offer a person-centred style, towards understanding YOU and your experiences. Together we use a range of therapeutic methods and choose what is most helpful for you. Therapy plans can include development and practicing new ways for you to work with your most challenging experiences, so they feel like less of a barrier to do what matters most to you.
0439 413 858 View 0439 413 858
Kanak Dube
Psychologist, PsyBA Prov
Serves Area
You may feel overwhelmed by life’s transitions or disconnected from your sense of self and at this time many are looking for understanding, practical coping strategies, and greater clarity during times of change or overwhelm. Having lived across India, the US, and Malaysia before moving to Melbourne, I bring a deeply lived multicultural perspective to our work. I understand the complexities of identity and belonging firsthand. My approach of therapy focuses on strengthening emotional regulation, self-understanding, and resilience within a trauma-informed, culturally sensitive space.
You may feel overwhelmed by life’s transitions or disconnected from your sense of self and at this time many are looking for understanding, practical coping strategies, and greater clarity during times of change or overwhelm. Having lived across India, the US, and Malaysia before moving to Melbourne, I bring a deeply lived multicultural perspective to our work. I understand the complexities of identity and belonging firsthand. My approach of therapy focuses on strengthening emotional regulation, self-understanding, and resilience within a trauma-informed, culturally sensitive space.
(03) 9663 9168 View (03) 9663 9168
Amanda Thornbury
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Online Only
I work with individuals (14 years +), couples and families navigating life's struggles. I have a special interest in interpersonal relationships, life transitions, job stress, self-empowerment, life direction, and supporting those who may be feeling lost, overwhelmed, or alone in their experiences. People seek support for many reasons, whether they are facing something new or dealing with challenges that have been present for some time and no longer want to manage them alone. They are often seeking support, practical strategies, and someone to help them make sense of what they are experiencing.
I work with individuals (14 years +), couples and families navigating life's struggles. I have a special interest in interpersonal relationships, life transitions, job stress, self-empowerment, life direction, and supporting those who may be feeling lost, overwhelmed, or alone in their experiences. People seek support for many reasons, whether they are facing something new or dealing with challenges that have been present for some time and no longer want to manage them alone. They are often seeking support, practical strategies, and someone to help them make sense of what they are experiencing.
(03) 5906 7485 View (03) 5906 7485
I specialize in trauma and relational treatment, offering an integrative blend of depth-oriented Psychodynamic therapy and transformative "parts work" ( IFS & Ego States).
Are you navigating the exhausting aftermath of trauma and relational wounds? You might feel caught in repeating relationship patterns or trapped by a persistent inner conflict—where one part of you wants to move forward, but another feels frozen in past hurts. I help you move forward by honoring every aspect of your story. Grounded in compassion and non-judgment, we explore root causes while actively building your inner core. Together, we safely process the past, transform your relationship with yourself, and break the cycles holding you back.
I specialize in trauma and relational treatment, offering an integrative blend of depth-oriented Psychodynamic therapy and transformative "parts work" ( IFS & Ego States).
Are you navigating the exhausting aftermath of trauma and relational wounds? You might feel caught in repeating relationship patterns or trapped by a persistent inner conflict—where one part of you wants to move forward, but another feels frozen in past hurts. I help you move forward by honoring every aspect of your story. Grounded in compassion and non-judgment, we explore root causes while actively building your inner core. Together, we safely process the past, transform your relationship with yourself, and break the cycles holding you back.
0466 083 918 View 0466 083 918

More Therapists Nearby

Barbara Drossos
Social Worker, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Fitzroy, VIC 3065
I use a mix of Gestalt, CBT, EMDR and Internal Family Systems therapies depending on your presenting issues and treatment preference.
I support people who have experienced sexual assault and violence, as well as those who struggle with their mental health, childhood trauma, attachment, relationships, parenting, heartbreak and shame. I've worked in reproductive health and provide unplanned pregnancy counselling and perinatal support. I welcome LGBTQIA+ clients and offer a safe space to explore gender identity and sexuality. I provide clinical supervision to social workers and counsellors. I have 14 years experience in leadership and supervisory roles in social work teams. I have completed Clinical Supervision training with the AASW and the Bouverie Centre.
I use a mix of Gestalt, CBT, EMDR and Internal Family Systems therapies depending on your presenting issues and treatment preference.
I support people who have experienced sexual assault and violence, as well as those who struggle with their mental health, childhood trauma, attachment, relationships, parenting, heartbreak and shame. I've worked in reproductive health and provide unplanned pregnancy counselling and perinatal support. I welcome LGBTQIA+ clients and offer a safe space to explore gender identity and sexuality. I provide clinical supervision to social workers and counsellors. I have 14 years experience in leadership and supervisory roles in social work teams. I have completed Clinical Supervision training with the AASW and the Bouverie Centre.
(03) 9344 1556 View (03) 9344 1556
Siobhan McKenna
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Williamstown, VIC 3016
Siobhan is a caring and compassionate clinical psychologist. She works with adults experiencing Trauma, PTSD, Life transitions, Grief and Loss. Siobhan also works with First Responders and DVA clients often using EMDR to relieve trauma. Siobhan has completed an additional year of training & mentoring to become an 'Accredited EMDR Practitioner' with the EMDR Association of Australia. Appointments are available online or in person.
Siobhan is a caring and compassionate clinical psychologist. She works with adults experiencing Trauma, PTSD, Life transitions, Grief and Loss. Siobhan also works with First Responders and DVA clients often using EMDR to relieve trauma. Siobhan has completed an additional year of training & mentoring to become an 'Accredited EMDR Practitioner' with the EMDR Association of Australia. Appointments are available online or in person.
(03) 7003 2761 View (03) 7003 2761
Couples Therapy Melbourne
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L3
Southbank, VIC 3006
Our evidence-based approaches, including ACT, schema therapy, EFT & IFS, help clients navigate relationship challenges, rebuild intimacy & manage emotional distress.
At Couples Therapy Melbourne, we support individuals and couples facing relationship challenges, emotional disconnection, and communication breakdowns. We work with those struggling to rebuild intimacy, manage conflict, or navigate life transitions such as marriage or parenthood. Our clients often feel overwhelmed by anxiety, stress, or past trauma, impacting their relationships. We provide a safe, compassionate space to develop effective communication skills, strengthen emotional bonds, and gain clarity on relationship dynamics. Our goal is to help clients reconnect, heal, and foster healthier, more fulfilling connections.
Our evidence-based approaches, including ACT, schema therapy, EFT & IFS, help clients navigate relationship challenges, rebuild intimacy & manage emotional distress.
At Couples Therapy Melbourne, we support individuals and couples facing relationship challenges, emotional disconnection, and communication breakdowns. We work with those struggling to rebuild intimacy, manage conflict, or navigate life transitions such as marriage or parenthood. Our clients often feel overwhelmed by anxiety, stress, or past trauma, impacting their relationships. We provide a safe, compassionate space to develop effective communication skills, strengthen emotional bonds, and gain clarity on relationship dynamics. Our goal is to help clients reconnect, heal, and foster healthier, more fulfilling connections.
(03) 7003 2143 View (03) 7003 2143
Craig Hildebrand-Burke
Psychologist, MPsych, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Blackburn, VIC 3130
I am an Educational & Developmental Psychologist with extensive experience working with children and adolescents in educational settings, as well as individuals of all ages in private practice.
I am an Educational & Developmental Psychologist with extensive experience working with children and adolescents in educational settings, as well as individuals of all ages in private practice.
(03) 7500 5673 View (03) 7500 5673
Soko Therapy
Counsellor, AASW
Online Only
You are the expert in your life and what is going on with you. I am a Christian Counsellor and open to all. My aim here is to meet people where they are at, spirituality is part of many of us who believe. So we can't leave that out of your health journey.
You are the expert in your life and what is going on with you. I am a Christian Counsellor and open to all. My aim here is to meet people where they are at, spirituality is part of many of us who believe. So we can't leave that out of your health journey.
(02) 5570 7312 View (02) 5570 7312
Simone Hall
Counsellor, ACA-L2
2 Endorsed
Kallista, VIC 3791
As a counsellor my role is to create a safe space for you to explore the issues that you are dealing with in your life, to find understanding, peace and resolution. If you are experiencing frustration, anxiety, depression or trauma from the challenges of everyday life, loss, bereavement, the end of relationships, or abuse, I am comfortable sitting with you and quietly exploring the emotions and thoughts which arise. I intentionally keep my fees affordable, so that cost isn't a barrier for people to access help.
As a counsellor my role is to create a safe space for you to explore the issues that you are dealing with in your life, to find understanding, peace and resolution. If you are experiencing frustration, anxiety, depression or trauma from the challenges of everyday life, loss, bereavement, the end of relationships, or abuse, I am comfortable sitting with you and quietly exploring the emotions and thoughts which arise. I intentionally keep my fees affordable, so that cost isn't a barrier for people to access help.
(03) 5907 3917 View (03) 5907 3917
Jacqui Snooks
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Mornington, VIC 3931
I am a qualified IAT (Integrative Attachment Therapy) therapist which specialises in adult attachment repair. Attachment repair effectively treats anxious, avoidant and disorganised attachment in adults, helping clients to achieve inner security, relationship satisfaction, and emotional well-being.​ I use a combination of emotional, cognitive and somatic therapeutic approaches in my work, because not everyone is the same, and I find as a therapist I need a variety of tools in my kit to meet the unique needs of each client.
I am a qualified IAT (Integrative Attachment Therapy) therapist which specialises in adult attachment repair. Attachment repair effectively treats anxious, avoidant and disorganised attachment in adults, helping clients to achieve inner security, relationship satisfaction, and emotional well-being.​ I use a combination of emotional, cognitive and somatic therapeutic approaches in my work, because not everyone is the same, and I find as a therapist I need a variety of tools in my kit to meet the unique needs of each client.
(08) 9126 9430 View (08) 9126 9430
Natasha Moshinsky
Social Worker, AMHSW
Caulfield North, VIC 3161
I am a Clinical Social Worker and Family Therapist. I specialise in working with children, adolescents, individuals, couples and families. Areas of expertise include trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, school refusal, family relationships, couples therapy, family conflict, parenting and life transitions. I have a particular interest in family therapy to strengthen relationships and to help people build positive patterns of relating to each other. My focus is to build a strong relational connection to be able to support individuals and families to develop insight and identify areas they want to change, manage or develop.
I am a Clinical Social Worker and Family Therapist. I specialise in working with children, adolescents, individuals, couples and families. Areas of expertise include trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, school refusal, family relationships, couples therapy, family conflict, parenting and life transitions. I have a particular interest in family therapy to strengthen relationships and to help people build positive patterns of relating to each other. My focus is to build a strong relational connection to be able to support individuals and families to develop insight and identify areas they want to change, manage or develop.
0493 727 115 View 0493 727 115
Tonia Hetherington
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Melbourne, VIC 3004
I am a certified IFS (Internal Family Systems) Practitioner - a Self-led modality that attends to your feelings in a deep, healing way.
Couples Counsellor and Relationship Therapist I work with you as a couple to understand the dynamic of your relationship today – the patterns and the past wounds and hurts - uncovering the subconscious beliefs and drivers, and how you both trigger each other’s pain. I assist you to become more conscious of what is really going on when you feel disconnected, misunderstood, betrayed and alone. With that understanding, I facilitate you to come together as a couple to be vulnerable, loving and deeply connected.
I am a certified IFS (Internal Family Systems) Practitioner - a Self-led modality that attends to your feelings in a deep, healing way.
Couples Counsellor and Relationship Therapist I work with you as a couple to understand the dynamic of your relationship today – the patterns and the past wounds and hurts - uncovering the subconscious beliefs and drivers, and how you both trigger each other’s pain. I assist you to become more conscious of what is really going on when you feel disconnected, misunderstood, betrayed and alone. With that understanding, I facilitate you to come together as a couple to be vulnerable, loving and deeply connected.
0483 824 857 View 0483 824 857
Ala Purchla
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Life is often unpredictable and challenging; and you shouldn’t be expected to hold it all on your own. My approach as an Integrative Psychotherapist is rooted in the belief that we are fundamentally relational beings, we need others to help us understand our own experience. I strive to create a safe and judgement free space for clients to be curious about their own minds and bodies in order to better understand their emotions, patterns and conflicts. Our work is not just focused on solving problems; it’s an invitation to a deeper relationship with yourself and the world around you.
Life is often unpredictable and challenging; and you shouldn’t be expected to hold it all on your own. My approach as an Integrative Psychotherapist is rooted in the belief that we are fundamentally relational beings, we need others to help us understand our own experience. I strive to create a safe and judgement free space for clients to be curious about their own minds and bodies in order to better understand their emotions, patterns and conflicts. Our work is not just focused on solving problems; it’s an invitation to a deeper relationship with yourself and the world around you.
0409 978 332 View 0409 978 332
Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists
What is Internal Family Systems therapy?
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a type of talk therapy that focuses on sub-personalities, or “families,” within a person, which may be made up of wounded parts and unpleasant emotions like anger and shame. These sub-personalities can come into conflict with each other and with an individual’s core Self, leaving the person feeling detached from positive traits such as the “8 C’s” of confidence, calmness, creativity, clarity, curiosity, courage, compassion, and connectedness. By healing a patient’s wounded parts, a therapist aims to restore balance and bring on positive change.

How does Internal Family Systems therapy work?
An IFS therapist will work with a patient to identify their particular sub-personalities, recognize the emotions powering them, and release them. By doing so, the patient should become more able to address any underlying problems their sub-personalities may have been trying to protect them from. Ultimately, a patient discovers ways to manage internal and external conflicts on their own, through techniques such as relaxation exercises, journaling, and making charts depicting the relationships between their core Self and their distinct parts.

Does Internal Family Systems therapy work?
IFS therapy has been shown to help people address conditions such as depression, anxiety, panic, fears and phobias, trauma, and substance use disorders. Some research has also found that it can help individuals deal with symptoms of physical health conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, such as pain, everyday functioning, depressive feelings, and low self-compassion. There are some conditions for which IFS treatment, specifically discussions of one’s “parts,” may be less appropriate, such as schizophrenia or other states that involve psychosis or paranoia.

How long does Internal Family Systems therapy take?
As with most forms of talk therapy, there is no set duration or end point for IFS therapy. After becoming comfortable with a therapist and the core concepts of IFS, some patients quickly make progress. While experiences vary, most will find that it is a relatively longer-term therapy, involving months and sometimes years of sessions.