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

Photo of Aadhyaa Udawat, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Aadhyaa Udawat
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Online Only
I employ presence-oriented psychotherapy, integrating approaches like ACT, MBCT, MBSR, Polyvagal therapy, somatic experiencing, and trauma-informed IFS.
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.
I employ presence-oriented psychotherapy, integrating approaches like ACT, MBCT, MBSR, Polyvagal therapy, somatic experiencing, and trauma-informed IFS.
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.
(03) 7003 2119 View (03) 7003 2119
Photo of Emma Vasey, Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L2
Emma Vasey
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Emma is a psychotherapist, couples counsellor, and sexologist dedicated to providing therapy that can be playful, cathartic, affirming, and enlightening all at once. She frequently sees clients in her office who are stuck in patterns of overthinking, emotional avoidance, and engaged with numbing tactics to cope. They seek a genuine version of themselves that they like, that connects with others, and feels inherently worthy of joy. They value themselves enough to hope for more. Emma is passionate about working with the neurodiverse, LGBTQIA+, and ENM community and the impacts of childhood neglect and trauma.
Emma is a psychotherapist, couples counsellor, and sexologist dedicated to providing therapy that can be playful, cathartic, affirming, and enlightening all at once. She frequently sees clients in her office who are stuck in patterns of overthinking, emotional avoidance, and engaged with numbing tactics to cope. They seek a genuine version of themselves that they like, that connects with others, and feels inherently worthy of joy. They value themselves enough to hope for more. Emma is passionate about working with the neurodiverse, LGBTQIA+, and ENM community and the impacts of childhood neglect and trauma.
(03) 7500 5637 View (03) 7500 5637
Photo of Helen Werts - RMB Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
RMB Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Online Only
I am a Level 3 Internal Family Systems Therapist, EMDR Consultant (in training), and a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (in training Advanced).
RMB Psychology not only brings the mind, but also invites the body into therapy thus delivering wholistic psychotherapy. Whilst it is only natural to avoid that which hurts us, wei titrate the therapeutic work to a pace that your nervous system tolerates, as we rewire your brain and heal your nervous system from the somatic memories it has carried.
I am a Level 3 Internal Family Systems Therapist, EMDR Consultant (in training), and a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (in training Advanced).
RMB Psychology not only brings the mind, but also invites the body into therapy thus delivering wholistic psychotherapy. Whilst it is only natural to avoid that which hurts us, wei titrate the therapeutic work to a pace that your nervous system tolerates, as we rewire your brain and heal your nervous system from the somatic memories it has carried.
(03) 8372 0563 View (03) 8372 0563
Photo of Dr Daniel Shaw, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Daniel Shaw
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I work with kind, intelligent, and reflective individuals who, despite their outward achievements, feel trapped by unhelpful patterns and past experiences. My clients often feel a sense of being lost, broken, or tainted. They may struggle with chronic self-doubt and the belief that they are not worthy of a fulfilling life. They are looking to move from a place of simply surviving to a life of meaning and purpose.
I work with kind, intelligent, and reflective individuals who, despite their outward achievements, feel trapped by unhelpful patterns and past experiences. My clients often feel a sense of being lost, broken, or tainted. They may struggle with chronic self-doubt and the belief that they are not worthy of a fulfilling life. They are looking to move from a place of simply surviving to a life of meaning and purpose.
(03) 9969 2190 View (03) 9969 2190
Photo of Hoor Elbakry, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Hoor Elbakry
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
If you’re ready for real change (not just talk), this is a focused, results-driven service. I provide evidence-based psychological care to address childhood trauma, PTSD, relationship stress and anxiety. I also offer adult ADHD and Autism assessments. My approach to therapy is structured, practical, and tailored to you, helping you understand patterns, regain control, and make meaningful progress.
If you’re ready for real change (not just talk), this is a focused, results-driven service. I provide evidence-based psychological care to address childhood trauma, PTSD, relationship stress and anxiety. I also offer adult ADHD and Autism assessments. My approach to therapy is structured, practical, and tailored to you, helping you understand patterns, regain control, and make meaningful progress.
(03) 7076 3333 View (03) 7076 3333
Photo of Lidija Trpcevska - Bright Psych, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Bright Psych
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Bright Psych provides a comprehensive psychological service for adolescents and adults.
Bright Psych provides a comprehensive psychological service for adolescents and adults.
(03) 9068 6415 View (03) 9068 6415
Photo of Naeem Rana - Couples Therapy Melbourne, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L3
Couples Therapy Melbourne
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L3
Serves Area
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

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Danielle Mundey - Still I RiseCounselling, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Still I RiseCounselling
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Online Only
I am an ACA-accredited counsellor providing trauma-informed, online support for individuals navigating domestic and family violence, sexual trauma, parenting challenges, and the unique pressures of FIFO life. Drawing on both professional training and lived experience, I offer a compassionate, non-judgemental space where clients feel safe to explore, heal, and rebuild. My approach is grounded, practical, and centred around helping you regain clarity, emotional balance, and a sense of control.
I am an ACA-accredited counsellor providing trauma-informed, online support for individuals navigating domestic and family violence, sexual trauma, parenting challenges, and the unique pressures of FIFO life. Drawing on both professional training and lived experience, I offer a compassionate, non-judgemental space where clients feel safe to explore, heal, and rebuild. My approach is grounded, practical, and centred around helping you regain clarity, emotional balance, and a sense of control.
(07) 4516 9358 View (07) 4516 9358
Photo of Jacqui Readett, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Jacqui Readett
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Serves Area
I specialize in providing Eye Movement, Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, Systemic Family Therapy, working with somatic experiences and our internal family systems.
What does your perfect day look like? Waking from a good sleep, with energy and without worry? Enjoying being with friends? I am Jacqui and I offer 20 years clinical experience and a broad range of therapeutic, evidence-based interventions helping you to achieve your goals. I use a holistic approach to resolve complex, severe, and persistent concerns affecting mental wellbeing. These include anxiety, depression, trauma, cPTSD, neurodivergence, pain, phobias, grief and loss. Family therapy: I see individuals, couples and families to improve navigation of complex relationship dynamics. Clinical supervision: AASW, experienced.
I specialize in providing Eye Movement, Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, Systemic Family Therapy, working with somatic experiences and our internal family systems.
What does your perfect day look like? Waking from a good sleep, with energy and without worry? Enjoying being with friends? I am Jacqui and I offer 20 years clinical experience and a broad range of therapeutic, evidence-based interventions helping you to achieve your goals. I use a holistic approach to resolve complex, severe, and persistent concerns affecting mental wellbeing. These include anxiety, depression, trauma, cPTSD, neurodivergence, pain, phobias, grief and loss. Family therapy: I see individuals, couples and families to improve navigation of complex relationship dynamics. Clinical supervision: AASW, experienced.
(07) 2100 4658 View (07) 2100 4658
Photo of Giorgia Deslandes - Meld Therapy, Counsellor, MC, PACFA
Meld Therapy
Counsellor, MC, PACFA
Northcote, VIC 3070
Her work integrates parts-based therapy (Internal Family Systems and Resource Therapy), Somatic Psychology, RI-EMDR and EMDR as core modalities, alongside Attachment-based Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Trauma-Informed CBT, Schema Therapy, and Existential Therapy.
Giorgia Deslandes is a Melbourne-based holistic counsellor registered with the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (Registered Clinical) and the EMDR Association of Australia. Giorgia offers both counselling and psychotherapy from the northern suburbs of Melbourne. Giorgia is trained in Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) and works from an integrative, person-centred, and trauma-informed approach. Drawing on her background in community health and Masters in Counselling Psychology, she supports clients to heal from trauma, strengthen emotional regulation, and reconnect with their authentic selves.
Her work integrates parts-based therapy (Internal Family Systems and Resource Therapy), Somatic Psychology, RI-EMDR and EMDR as core modalities, alongside Attachment-based Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Trauma-Informed CBT, Schema Therapy, and Existential Therapy.
Giorgia Deslandes is a Melbourne-based holistic counsellor registered with the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (Registered Clinical) and the EMDR Association of Australia. Giorgia offers both counselling and psychotherapy from the northern suburbs of Melbourne. Giorgia is trained in Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) and works from an integrative, person-centred, and trauma-informed approach. Drawing on her background in community health and Masters in Counselling Psychology, she supports clients to heal from trauma, strengthen emotional regulation, and reconnect with their authentic selves.
(03) 7003 2395 View (03) 7003 2395
Photo of Melanie Anderson, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Melanie Anderson
Counsellor, ACA-L2
3 Endorsed
Ferntree Gully, VIC 3156
I like to use a blend of ACT, Coaching, Humanistic, IFS informed and Somatic type approaches but will tailor my approach to what you need and works best for you.
I am a specialist Counsellor with 14+ years experience supporting women in community and therapeutic settings. Women are incredible connectors that give so much of themselves to workplaces, families and community. Sometimes this can result in feeling disconnected from themselves. Women also experience relationship breakdowns, parenting challenges, loss, abuse and traumatic experiences. These can really rock the foundation of who we are. I can help you make sense of what has happened and how to move forward with who you are becoming and what you want for your life.
I like to use a blend of ACT, Coaching, Humanistic, IFS informed and Somatic type approaches but will tailor my approach to what you need and works best for you.
I am a specialist Counsellor with 14+ years experience supporting women in community and therapeutic settings. Women are incredible connectors that give so much of themselves to workplaces, families and community. Sometimes this can result in feeling disconnected from themselves. Women also experience relationship breakdowns, parenting challenges, loss, abuse and traumatic experiences. These can really rock the foundation of who we are. I can help you make sense of what has happened and how to move forward with who you are becoming and what you want for your life.
(03) 5907 5884 View (03) 5907 5884
Photo of Elissa Macaw, Psychologist, MA, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Elissa Macaw
Psychologist, MA, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Chelsea, VIC 3196
I am committed to creating a safe, supportive space where clients feel understood, empowered, and equipped with practical tools for meaningful and lasting change. I will support you to navigate relationship issues, anxiety, depression, grief and loss and trauma as well as addiction (alcohol and gambling). Meeting you where you are at and focussing on your goals for treatment with compassion and trauma informed practice
I am committed to creating a safe, supportive space where clients feel understood, empowered, and equipped with practical tools for meaningful and lasting change. I will support you to navigate relationship issues, anxiety, depression, grief and loss and trauma as well as addiction (alcohol and gambling). Meeting you where you are at and focussing on your goals for treatment with compassion and trauma informed practice
(03) 8771 4621 View (03) 8771 4621
Photo of Emma Lowe, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Emma Lowe
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Mornington, VIC 3931
I wholeheartedly believe in therapeutic healing through safety, compassion & acceptance in the present moment. If we are in distress, feeling lost, alone, sad, anxious or angry it can be hard to know whom to talk with or, what to talk about. Sometimes we don't want to talk at all to start with and, would prefer to do a creative/movement exercise to express ourselves. Maybe we know exactly what we want to talk about and explore, maybe learning new skills to integrate into daily life. I can be there to support you, whatever stage you are at.
I wholeheartedly believe in therapeutic healing through safety, compassion & acceptance in the present moment. If we are in distress, feeling lost, alone, sad, anxious or angry it can be hard to know whom to talk with or, what to talk about. Sometimes we don't want to talk at all to start with and, would prefer to do a creative/movement exercise to express ourselves. Maybe we know exactly what we want to talk about and explore, maybe learning new skills to integrate into daily life. I can be there to support you, whatever stage you are at.
(08) 9025 3270 View (08) 9025 3270
Photo of Sue Drummond, Social Worker, AASW
Sue Drummond
Social Worker, AASW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My work is informed by IFS, and I also use mindfulness -based interventions when supporting you and your parts.
I have worked as an educator , counsellor and community development worker for 35 years .I have qualifications in Social work, Gestalt therapy , Internal Family Systems therapy and am an EMDR therapist . I have extensive experience supporting clients with depression and anxiety, grief and trauma. I support adolescents and adults . I believe that creating safety and trust between the client and myself is the most important aspect of therapy. I bring warmth and humour to my work with clients and have a gentle and empathic approach. Call me for a free 15 minute chat so you can check if I am a good fit for you .
My work is informed by IFS, and I also use mindfulness -based interventions when supporting you and your parts.
I have worked as an educator , counsellor and community development worker for 35 years .I have qualifications in Social work, Gestalt therapy , Internal Family Systems therapy and am an EMDR therapist . I have extensive experience supporting clients with depression and anxiety, grief and trauma. I support adolescents and adults . I believe that creating safety and trust between the client and myself is the most important aspect of therapy. I bring warmth and humour to my work with clients and have a gentle and empathic approach. Call me for a free 15 minute chat so you can check if I am a good fit for you .
(03) 4422 4713 View (03) 4422 4713
Photo of Ala Purchla, Psychotherapist, PACFA
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
Photo of Krista Senden, Social Worker, AMHSW
Krista Senden
Social Worker, AMHSW
Online Only
You may be navigating work stress, family pressures, loss, past trauma, relationship challenges, depression, anxiety or a general sense of feeling stuck. Counselling offers a supportive space to slow down and reflect on what you are experiencing. Together we work to understand the patterns, experiences and pressures that may be shaping your current situation, with the aim of building insight, strengthening emotional stability and supporting meaningful change.
You may be navigating work stress, family pressures, loss, past trauma, relationship challenges, depression, anxiety or a general sense of feeling stuck. Counselling offers a supportive space to slow down and reflect on what you are experiencing. Together we work to understand the patterns, experiences and pressures that may be shaping your current situation, with the aim of building insight, strengthening emotional stability and supporting meaningful change.
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Photo of Harshani Algiriya, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Harshani Algiriya
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Maribyrnong, VIC 3032
My approach integrates EMDR, CBT-informed strategies, IFS, Gottman Method couples therapy, mindfulness, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and motivational interviewing.
I provide trauma-informed therapy for individuals and couples, with a focus on supporting meaningful and lasting change. My work is grounded in evidence-based approaches, particularly EMDR therapy, and is tailored to each person’s unique experiences and goals. I support clients who may be experiencing: Trauma and complex or unresolved past experiences, Anxiety, stress, and emotional overwhelm, Depression and low mood, Relationship and family challenges, Burnout, life transitions, and work-related stress, Sleep difficulties and patterns linked to emotional distress.
My approach integrates EMDR, CBT-informed strategies, IFS, Gottman Method couples therapy, mindfulness, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and motivational interviewing.
I provide trauma-informed therapy for individuals and couples, with a focus on supporting meaningful and lasting change. My work is grounded in evidence-based approaches, particularly EMDR therapy, and is tailored to each person’s unique experiences and goals. I support clients who may be experiencing: Trauma and complex or unresolved past experiences, Anxiety, stress, and emotional overwhelm, Depression and low mood, Relationship and family challenges, Burnout, life transitions, and work-related stress, Sleep difficulties and patterns linked to emotional distress.
(03) 8595 5442 View (03) 8595 5442
Photo of Brett Hall - Brett Hall, Therapy for Change-Makers, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Brett Hall, Therapy for Change-Makers
Psychotherapist, PACFA
7 Endorsed
Online Only
If you're committed to a better world and struggling with the emotional and psychological toll that comes with that, contact me now. Whether it's the isolation of seeing what others can't, the exhaustion of trying to keep up, or the frustration with your limited influence, I'm here to help. You don't need therapy that adjusts you to a world you're trying to change, you need a therapist who gets it.
If you're committed to a better world and struggling with the emotional and psychological toll that comes with that, contact me now. Whether it's the isolation of seeing what others can't, the exhaustion of trying to keep up, or the frustration with your limited influence, I'm here to help. You don't need therapy that adjusts you to a world you're trying to change, you need a therapist who gets it.
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Photo of Eryka Rhodes - Looking Forward Counselling & Hypnotherapy, Counsellor, PACFA
Looking Forward Counselling & Hypnotherapy
Counsellor, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Mount Eliza, VIC 3930
I employ an evidence-based, multi-faceted approach, working with you to create the next chapter. A qualified, registered Clinical Counsellor, based in the Mornington Peninsula, supporting couples, and adults. Helping you navigate the path to find your purpose, reframe concerns and look forward to an improved relationship with yourself and others. Passionate about empowering you to develop a set of tools to help you become your own coach. Supporting a wide range of concerns including: Anxiety, Stress, Depression, Self-esteem, Relational dynamics, Confidence, Grief, Conflict, Anger, Eating Disorder behaviour management
I employ an evidence-based, multi-faceted approach, working with you to create the next chapter. A qualified, registered Clinical Counsellor, based in the Mornington Peninsula, supporting couples, and adults. Helping you navigate the path to find your purpose, reframe concerns and look forward to an improved relationship with yourself and others. Passionate about empowering you to develop a set of tools to help you become your own coach. Supporting a wide range of concerns including: Anxiety, Stress, Depression, Self-esteem, Relational dynamics, Confidence, Grief, Conflict, Anger, Eating Disorder behaviour management
(03) 5910 1684 View (03) 5910 1684
Photo of Clair Sara Martin, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Clair Sara Martin
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Serves Area
I believe that seeking support takes courage, and my goal is to provide a space where you feel safe, respected, and understood. My approach is strengths-based and collaborative, focusing on your unique experiences, abilities, and goals. I work with young people and adults to help them navigate challenges, build resilience, and develop practical tools for lasting change. I also offer clinical supervision to support other practitioners in their professional development.
I believe that seeking support takes courage, and my goal is to provide a space where you feel safe, respected, and understood. My approach is strengths-based and collaborative, focusing on your unique experiences, abilities, and goals. I work with young people and adults to help them navigate challenges, build resilience, and develop practical tools for lasting change. I also offer clinical supervision to support other practitioners in their professional development.
(02) 5944 5487 View (02) 5944 5487
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.