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

Photo of Kym Anderton, Counsellor, PACFA
Kym Anderton
Counsellor, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
The essence of my therapy is in building solid, safe relationships collaboratively with my clients, catering to the unique needs of each person in a non-judgmental way. Rather than tell someone what they need, I prefer a merging of minds to make meaningful and sustainable differences. Together we explore resources to overcome adversity and suffering whilst learning to accept and adapt to the complicated facets of life where required. My therapeutic approach is also rooted in a deep exploration of early life experiences, with a focus on understanding and facilitating the healing of trauma or patterned behaviour.
The essence of my therapy is in building solid, safe relationships collaboratively with my clients, catering to the unique needs of each person in a non-judgmental way. Rather than tell someone what they need, I prefer a merging of minds to make meaningful and sustainable differences. Together we explore resources to overcome adversity and suffering whilst learning to accept and adapt to the complicated facets of life where required. My therapeutic approach is also rooted in a deep exploration of early life experiences, with a focus on understanding and facilitating the healing of trauma or patterned behaviour.
(03) 5910 3030 View (03) 5910 3030
Photo of Priyanka Malhotra - Rewire Psychology , Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Rewire Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
As an experienced Clinical & Counselling Psychologist and Supervisor with specialised training in mental health I offer counselling services for children, adolescents, adults, and couples. For families, I work with child mental health difficulties such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, ARFID and provide neuro-affirming care and advocacy, support children through parental separation, and school challenges. I empower families to advocate for their neurodivergent young person in educational settings. For adults and couples, the aim is to enhance communication, rebuild trust, and strengthen emotional responses.
As an experienced Clinical & Counselling Psychologist and Supervisor with specialised training in mental health I offer counselling services for children, adolescents, adults, and couples. For families, I work with child mental health difficulties such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, ARFID and provide neuro-affirming care and advocacy, support children through parental separation, and school challenges. I empower families to advocate for their neurodivergent young person in educational settings. For adults and couples, the aim is to enhance communication, rebuild trust, and strengthen emotional responses.
(03) 5905 7130 View (03) 5905 7130
Photo of Irene Ferri, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Irene Ferri
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
I draw from different approaches, such as psychodynamic therapy, somatic therapy, IFS (Internal family systems), creative work and solution-focused approach.
I am a humanistic and relational counsellor. My focus is to meet the needs of each unique client. I form strong collaborative bonds with clients and understand the influence their past experiences and relationships have on their current lives. I'm successful in resolving issues through positive reinforcement and constructive counselling. Some of the issues I work with: relationship issues, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relocation, impact of abuse and trauma, grief and bereavement.
I draw from different approaches, such as psychodynamic therapy, somatic therapy, IFS (Internal family systems), creative work and solution-focused approach.
I am a humanistic and relational counsellor. My focus is to meet the needs of each unique client. I form strong collaborative bonds with clients and understand the influence their past experiences and relationships have on their current lives. I'm successful in resolving issues through positive reinforcement and constructive counselling. Some of the issues I work with: relationship issues, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relocation, impact of abuse and trauma, grief and bereavement.
(03) 5905 9759 View (03) 5905 9759
Photo of Emma Lowe, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Emma Lowe
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
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 Robin Pantours, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Robin Pantours
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Master's in counselling through ECU , trained in IFS, ACT and DBT, as well as certification in creative therapies and embodied practices
Supporting clients to intergrate their lived experiences and find compassion and understanding towards their own lives
Master's in counselling through ECU , trained in IFS, ACT and DBT, as well as certification in creative therapies and embodied practices
Supporting clients to intergrate their lived experiences and find compassion and understanding towards their own lives
(03) 5910 5379 View (03) 5910 5379
Photo of Vanessa M Preston, Social Worker, AMHSW
Vanessa M Preston
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
Hello:-) You've probably read 12 bios at this point and all the words are running together or sound the same. Or you're flicking thru photos of clinicians hoping that will give you clarity on who will be a good fit. I get it. "Therapist shopping" can be hard and overwhelming. And chances are if you're searching, you're struggling with something. Maybe I can offer a compassionate and safe enough space to help. I'm Vanessa. I'm a mental health social worker and qualified therapist with 20 years of experience. I am genuinely invested in supporting my clients to make sustainable changes in their lives.
Hello:-) You've probably read 12 bios at this point and all the words are running together or sound the same. Or you're flicking thru photos of clinicians hoping that will give you clarity on who will be a good fit. I get it. "Therapist shopping" can be hard and overwhelming. And chances are if you're searching, you're struggling with something. Maybe I can offer a compassionate and safe enough space to help. I'm Vanessa. I'm a mental health social worker and qualified therapist with 20 years of experience. I am genuinely invested in supporting my clients to make sustainable changes in their lives.
(03) 5906 7997 View (03) 5906 7997

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lauren Roberts, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Lauren Roberts
Counsellor, ACA-L1
3 Endorsed
Frankston, VIC 3199
I work with individuals who feel something within them is asking to be heard—often showing up as anxiety, overwhelm, identity shifts, or disconnection. I support ADHD, autism, motherhood, trauma, and work with children (5+) and NDIS participants, including school-based sessions in primary and high school settings. My person-centred, evidence-informed approach creates space to explore what’s beneath the surface, build emotional capacity, and move toward clarity, regulation, and self-trust. If you’re feeling the weight of carrying it all alone, this is a space to slow down, be met fully, and begin finding your way forward.
I work with individuals who feel something within them is asking to be heard—often showing up as anxiety, overwhelm, identity shifts, or disconnection. I support ADHD, autism, motherhood, trauma, and work with children (5+) and NDIS participants, including school-based sessions in primary and high school settings. My person-centred, evidence-informed approach creates space to explore what’s beneath the surface, build emotional capacity, and move toward clarity, regulation, and self-trust. If you’re feeling the weight of carrying it all alone, this is a space to slow down, be met fully, and begin finding your way forward.
(03) 5907 5536 View (03) 5907 5536
Photo of Hannah Woods, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Hannah Woods
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Cranbourne, VIC 3977
Hi, I’m Hannah, a counsellor and psychotherapist passionate about supporting you through life's difficulties. Whether you’re feeling stuck, experiencing grief, navigating relationships, or looking to deepen self-awareness, I provide a safe space for you to be heard and tell your story. I take a humanistic, strengths-based, and holistic approach, helping you reconnect with your inner resources and cultivate resilience. Together we can work together to help you feel empowered, self-aware, and ready to take meaningful steps towards a fulfilling life. I use a variety of tools to support you: mindfulness, somatic therapy, focusing & ACT
Hi, I’m Hannah, a counsellor and psychotherapist passionate about supporting you through life's difficulties. Whether you’re feeling stuck, experiencing grief, navigating relationships, or looking to deepen self-awareness, I provide a safe space for you to be heard and tell your story. I take a humanistic, strengths-based, and holistic approach, helping you reconnect with your inner resources and cultivate resilience. Together we can work together to help you feel empowered, self-aware, and ready to take meaningful steps towards a fulfilling life. I use a variety of tools to support you: mindfulness, somatic therapy, focusing & ACT
(03) 5907 5401 View (03) 5907 5401
Photo of Megan Sinclair, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Megan Sinclair
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Online Only
My primary focus is working with adults aged 16 and older. I have experience working with individuals navigating: Trauma, PTSD, Interpersonal Concerns, Anxiety + Panic Disorders, Perinatal Mental Health, Stress + Burnout, Somatic Symptoms and Parenting
My primary focus is working with adults aged 16 and older. I have experience working with individuals navigating: Trauma, PTSD, Interpersonal Concerns, Anxiety + Panic Disorders, Perinatal Mental Health, Stress + Burnout, Somatic Symptoms and Parenting
(03) 5608 5582 View (03) 5608 5582
Photo of Sarah Lawson, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Sarah Lawson
Counsellor, ACA-L2
2 Endorsed
Parkdale, VIC 3195
Waitlist for new clients
Internal Family Systems ( IFS) therapy offers a unique and compassionate approach to understanding and healing from the patterns that you might be experiencing.
Life sometimes leaves you feeling overwhelmed, exhausted and alone. You want to make changes but don't know where to start. You struggle to find joy in activities that once brought you happiness. This is not the life you imagined for yourself and you wonder if these issues stem from your childhood experiences? You’re not alone. Many people find themselves caught in a cycle where their past impacts their daily lives. Often the roots of these feelings trace back to our childhoods, where patterns and beliefs about ourselves were formed.
Internal Family Systems ( IFS) therapy offers a unique and compassionate approach to understanding and healing from the patterns that you might be experiencing.
Life sometimes leaves you feeling overwhelmed, exhausted and alone. You want to make changes but don't know where to start. You struggle to find joy in activities that once brought you happiness. This is not the life you imagined for yourself and you wonder if these issues stem from your childhood experiences? You’re not alone. Many people find themselves caught in a cycle where their past impacts their daily lives. Often the roots of these feelings trace back to our childhoods, where patterns and beliefs about ourselves were formed.
(03) 8771 5856 View (03) 8771 5856
Photo of Bethany Phelan, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Bethany Phelan
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Online Only
Many of the people I work with have spent years caring for others. They are often the reliable one, the helper, the problem-solver, or the person everyone turns to for support. From the outside, they may appear capable, independent and successful, yet internally feel overwhelmed, disconnected from themselves, uncertain of what they need, or exhausted from carrying so much for so long. I am passionate about helping people better understand themselves, heal from difficult experiences, navigate life's challenges, strengthen relationships, and develop greater self-trust, confidence and clarity about who they are and what they need.
Many of the people I work with have spent years caring for others. They are often the reliable one, the helper, the problem-solver, or the person everyone turns to for support. From the outside, they may appear capable, independent and successful, yet internally feel overwhelmed, disconnected from themselves, uncertain of what they need, or exhausted from carrying so much for so long. I am passionate about helping people better understand themselves, heal from difficult experiences, navigate life's challenges, strengthen relationships, and develop greater self-trust, confidence and clarity about who they are and what they need.
(03) 7003 2117 View (03) 7003 2117
Photo of Sue Guzick, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
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
Photo of Paige Hill, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Paige Hill
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Beaumaris, VIC 3193
Feeling stuck? Anxious? Burnt out? Not quite yourself? That’s okay. Deciding to get support is already a powerful first step. I’m Paige, a warm and straightforward psychologist with over 15 years of experience across private practice, government, and community mental health. People who come to see me are often trying to “push through” on their own — until they realise it’s no longer working, or that it’s taking a toll on their health and relationships. ​
Feeling stuck? Anxious? Burnt out? Not quite yourself? That’s okay. Deciding to get support is already a powerful first step. I’m Paige, a warm and straightforward psychologist with over 15 years of experience across private practice, government, and community mental health. People who come to see me are often trying to “push through” on their own — until they realise it’s no longer working, or that it’s taking a toll on their health and relationships. ​
(03) 8771 4961 View (03) 8771 4961
Photo of Shuwana Shiraze - Whole-Hearted Relationships, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Whole-Hearted Relationships
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
Are you and your partner feeling more like housemates than companions, struggling to connect, stuck in the same painful cycles, or living with a quiet disconnection no one else can see? Perhaps intimacy feels out of reach, or you’ve moved through relationships searching for closeness but never quite finding safety. If you’re wondering whether the bond can be restored, don’t wait until distance grows deeper. Whether you’re working on your relationship or exploring recurring patterns on your own, I’m here to walk alongside you. Reaching out takes courage, and you deserve the support to create the love you long for.
Are you and your partner feeling more like housemates than companions, struggling to connect, stuck in the same painful cycles, or living with a quiet disconnection no one else can see? Perhaps intimacy feels out of reach, or you’ve moved through relationships searching for closeness but never quite finding safety. If you’re wondering whether the bond can be restored, don’t wait until distance grows deeper. Whether you’re working on your relationship or exploring recurring patterns on your own, I’m here to walk alongside you. Reaching out takes courage, and you deserve the support to create the love you long for.
(03) 8797 2621 View (03) 8797 2621
Photo of Jaclyn D Lee - Neurogenesis Clinical Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Neurogenesis Clinical Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Cheltenham, VIC 3192
I utilise a range of therapies depending on your needs from behavioural therapies like DBT to trauma focused therapies and am a Certified IFS level 1 therapist.
Accepting New Clients ! - Jaclyn is a Clinical psychologist and aims to provide therapy with a difference. Our work together will be person focused and beautifully supportive however this will be a therapeutic approach to see transformation! I have a focus on intervention; my patients come to me because they want to see change and are tired of talking about their week on loop; so, whilst our work together may be hard and sometimes very challenging, with support together we will make that change that you have been waiting to achieve.
I utilise a range of therapies depending on your needs from behavioural therapies like DBT to trauma focused therapies and am a Certified IFS level 1 therapist.
Accepting New Clients ! - Jaclyn is a Clinical psychologist and aims to provide therapy with a difference. Our work together will be person focused and beautifully supportive however this will be a therapeutic approach to see transformation! I have a focus on intervention; my patients come to me because they want to see change and are tired of talking about their week on loop; so, whilst our work together may be hard and sometimes very challenging, with support together we will make that change that you have been waiting to achieve.
View
Photo of Jo Efron, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Jo Efron
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
Many people reach a point where past experiences, trauma, or life transitions feel too heavy to manage alone. In my practice, I offer a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space to explore emotional dysregulation, grief, and patterns shaped by difficult family dynamics. Together we work toward clarity, self-understanding, and meaningful change, helping you navigate life with balance. I bring a depth-oriented approach informed by trauma work, Jungian psychology, and decades of clinical experience. You’ll find me down to earth, easy to talk to, and committed to providing a confidential space in a realistic 90-minute timeframe.
Many people reach a point where past experiences, trauma, or life transitions feel too heavy to manage alone. In my practice, I offer a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space to explore emotional dysregulation, grief, and patterns shaped by difficult family dynamics. Together we work toward clarity, self-understanding, and meaningful change, helping you navigate life with balance. I bring a depth-oriented approach informed by trauma work, Jungian psychology, and decades of clinical experience. You’ll find me down to earth, easy to talk to, and committed to providing a confidential space in a realistic 90-minute timeframe.
(03) 7003 2157 View (03) 7003 2157
Photo of Chanelle Adam, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Chanelle Adam
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Bentleigh East, VIC 3165
The types of therapies I use are: Internal Family Systems, EMDR, CBT, ACT, Schema Therapy, and Attachment Theory
Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming, but at the heart of therapy is connection - and that’s what I try my best to prioritise in our sessions. I believe therapy shouldn’t feel clinical or detached; it should feel like a conversation with someone who truly sees you. I work specifically with young adults aged 18 - 35, and I have a special interest in working with trauma, attachment difficulties, anxiety disorders, young adults who are experiencing family and relationship difficulties, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and people who are experiencing identity struggles or those just feeling "stuck".
The types of therapies I use are: Internal Family Systems, EMDR, CBT, ACT, Schema Therapy, and Attachment Theory
Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming, but at the heart of therapy is connection - and that’s what I try my best to prioritise in our sessions. I believe therapy shouldn’t feel clinical or detached; it should feel like a conversation with someone who truly sees you. I work specifically with young adults aged 18 - 35, and I have a special interest in working with trauma, attachment difficulties, anxiety disorders, young adults who are experiencing family and relationship difficulties, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and people who are experiencing identity struggles or those just feeling "stuck".
View
Photo of Priya Johar, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Priya Johar
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Officer, VIC 3809
Priya is a warm and compassionate psychologist who values creating a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered. She works collaboratively with individuals to explore challenges, build insight, and foster meaningful, lasting change. Her approach is culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and grounded in the importance of a strong therapeutic relationship. Priya works collaboratively with clients to build practical coping strategies, deepen self-understanding, and support overall wellbeing and personal growth. She can provide therapy in both English and Punjabi.
Priya is a warm and compassionate psychologist who values creating a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered. She works collaboratively with individuals to explore challenges, build insight, and foster meaningful, lasting change. Her approach is culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and grounded in the importance of a strong therapeutic relationship. Priya works collaboratively with clients to build practical coping strategies, deepen self-understanding, and support overall wellbeing and personal growth. She can provide therapy in both English and Punjabi.
(03) 5910 1172 View (03) 5910 1172
Photo of Lital Fee, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Lital Fee
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Lital is a dedicated and experienced Psychotherapist with a compassionate, client-centred approach to therapy. She provides a safe and supportive space where individuals feel genuinely heard and respected. Lital has extensive experience working with a wide range of mental health challenges, including trauma, borderline personality disorder (BPD), adult ADHD, anxiety and emotionally dysregulated or challenging behaviours. Her special area of interest is supporting clients with a history to substance misuse and addictions.
Lital is a dedicated and experienced Psychotherapist with a compassionate, client-centred approach to therapy. She provides a safe and supportive space where individuals feel genuinely heard and respected. Lital has extensive experience working with a wide range of mental health challenges, including trauma, borderline personality disorder (BPD), adult ADHD, anxiety and emotionally dysregulated or challenging behaviours. Her special area of interest is supporting clients with a history to substance misuse and addictions.
(03) 9111 5330 View (03) 9111 5330
Photo of Lindy Spanger, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Lindy Spanger
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Caulfield South, VIC 3162
I am a Soul Centred Psychotherapist and Supervisor with over 20 years experience. You may be experiencing big life transitions, relationship issues or old negative patterns and beliefs that are getting in the way leaving you feeling stuck and overwhelmed. Deciding to come to therapy can feel like such a relief getting To share your story and be heard without judgment in a supportive environment. Therapy can really help to bring about change and healing allowing you to make sense of those old negative patterns making it possible to respond to yourself and to life in a way the works better for the whole of who you are now.
I am a Soul Centred Psychotherapist and Supervisor with over 20 years experience. You may be experiencing big life transitions, relationship issues or old negative patterns and beliefs that are getting in the way leaving you feeling stuck and overwhelmed. Deciding to come to therapy can feel like such a relief getting To share your story and be heard without judgment in a supportive environment. Therapy can really help to bring about change and healing allowing you to make sense of those old negative patterns making it possible to respond to yourself and to life in a way the works better for the whole of who you are now.
(03) 7003 2360 View (03) 7003 2360
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.