Domestic Abuse Psychologists and Therapists in East Melbourne, VIC

Harry Morris
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
Harry supports individuals with BPD, ADHD and Autism, who have concurrent Complex PTSD or depression/anxiety. He works with members of the LGBTQIA+ community and provides gender affirming care. Harry believes in creative problem solving for neurodivergent individuals, recognising that their path to wellness may look different to others. He creates an honest, fun and down to earth therapy space which allows for creative ideas for wellness to come about. He understands that many factors have lead people to react in unhealthy coping mechanisms and focuses on introducing new healthy patterns that were not taught to them growing up.
Harry supports individuals with BPD, ADHD and Autism, who have concurrent Complex PTSD or depression/anxiety. He works with members of the LGBTQIA+ community and provides gender affirming care. Harry believes in creative problem solving for neurodivergent individuals, recognising that their path to wellness may look different to others. He creates an honest, fun and down to earth therapy space which allows for creative ideas for wellness to come about. He understands that many factors have lead people to react in unhealthy coping mechanisms and focuses on introducing new healthy patterns that were not taught to them growing up.
(03) 7076 3400 View (03) 7076 3400
Catherine Anne Rumball
Psychologist, PsyBA General
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
Catherine offers counselling for any person experiencing challenges in their life. Her goal is for you to feel understood, appreciated and respected for who you are, for what has happened and what is happening in your life. She ise dedicated to helping people to overcome and learn to live well with a wide range of mental health issues. Catherine’s diverse experience includes providing intervention for trauma, depression, anxiety and major mental health disorders as well as providing risk assessments. Catherine has also been involved in providing urgent psychological services, clinical counselling and critical incident defusing.
Catherine offers counselling for any person experiencing challenges in their life. Her goal is for you to feel understood, appreciated and respected for who you are, for what has happened and what is happening in your life. She ise dedicated to helping people to overcome and learn to live well with a wide range of mental health issues. Catherine’s diverse experience includes providing intervention for trauma, depression, anxiety and major mental health disorders as well as providing risk assessments. Catherine has also been involved in providing urgent psychological services, clinical counselling and critical incident defusing.
(03) 7003 2593 View (03) 7003 2593
Danu Sivanathan
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
Danu is a Melbourne-based psychologist who believes therapy is a paradox of acceptance and challenge. It is a puzzle to be solved with patients who have some psychic or social injury and are looking for someone to help them accept both who they are, and who they can be. Danu has a PhD (Clinical Psychology) and was a lecturer and a clinician in justice and hospital settings. Danu is also expert in psychological assessments.
Danu is a Melbourne-based psychologist who believes therapy is a paradox of acceptance and challenge. It is a puzzle to be solved with patients who have some psychic or social injury and are looking for someone to help them accept both who they are, and who they can be. Danu has a PhD (Clinical Psychology) and was a lecturer and a clinician in justice and hospital settings. Danu is also expert in psychological assessments.
0490 833 820 View 0490 833 820
Dr Meredith Leigh Falkiner
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
I focus on working with trauma, including PTSD, complex PTSD, sexual abuse, domestic abuse, dissociation, and traumatic early life events.
Other areas that I can assist with include: • Anxiety • Mood disorders • Adjustment disorder • Personality disorders • Addictions • Relationship issues • Stress and burnout • Low self-esteem • Assertiveness and communication skills
I focus on working with trauma, including PTSD, complex PTSD, sexual abuse, domestic abuse, dissociation, and traumatic early life events.
Other areas that I can assist with include: • Anxiety • Mood disorders • Adjustment disorder • Personality disorders • Addictions • Relationship issues • Stress and burnout • Low self-esteem • Assertiveness and communication skills
0477 579 469 View 0477 579 469
Sayaka Sayeed
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with adults who may appear to be coping externally but feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected internally. Many are navigating ADHD or neurodivergence, identity, queerness, cultural experiences, relationship patterns, burnout, or life transitions. My approach is trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and neuro-affirming, integrating CBT, ACT, IFS parts work, attachment-based therapy, and practical ADHD coaching. Using collaborative intersectional frameworks while maintaining authenticity, empathy and curiosity, we make sense of patterns, reduce shame, and build realistic, sustainable ways of moving forward.
I work with adults who may appear to be coping externally but feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected internally. Many are navigating ADHD or neurodivergence, identity, queerness, cultural experiences, relationship patterns, burnout, or life transitions. My approach is trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and neuro-affirming, integrating CBT, ACT, IFS parts work, attachment-based therapy, and practical ADHD coaching. Using collaborative intersectional frameworks while maintaining authenticity, empathy and curiosity, we make sense of patterns, reduce shame, and build realistic, sustainable ways of moving forward.
(03) 7003 2356 View (03) 7003 2356
Charlene's Counselling Room
Counsellor, MPsych, PACFA
Serves Area
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, sadness, or self-doubt, even when you're trying your best to keep things together? Perhaps you feel a deep sense that something is out of balance, and you're longing for inner peace and more fulfilling relationships. I deeply understand that taking the step to seek support requires courage, and I’m here to offer a gentle, supportive space where you feel genuinely heard and valued.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, sadness, or self-doubt, even when you're trying your best to keep things together? Perhaps you feel a deep sense that something is out of balance, and you're longing for inner peace and more fulfilling relationships. I deeply understand that taking the step to seek support requires courage, and I’m here to offer a gentle, supportive space where you feel genuinely heard and valued.
0451 947 206 View 0451 947 206
Sean Renehan
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
I work with warmth and curiosity to help develop a deeper understanding of your concern and make sense of why particular patterns might be causing distress. I work from an understanding that many of life's concerns stem from our past experiences in relationships and the structural difficulties that are present in our society. I endeavor to understand peoples experience and distress through the context in which they live. I believe that the more we can understand the fixed patterns we find ourselves stuck in, the greater chance we have of learning to live in more meaningful ways. I offer supervision, individual and couples therapy.
I work with warmth and curiosity to help develop a deeper understanding of your concern and make sense of why particular patterns might be causing distress. I work from an understanding that many of life's concerns stem from our past experiences in relationships and the structural difficulties that are present in our society. I endeavor to understand peoples experience and distress through the context in which they live. I believe that the more we can understand the fixed patterns we find ourselves stuck in, the greater chance we have of learning to live in more meaningful ways. I offer supervision, individual and couples therapy.
(03) 7003 2203 View (03) 7003 2203
Taash Balakas
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Let’s be honest. Walking into therapy can feel intimidating. The old-school image of psychology is still very “serious face, intimidating suit, big words you didn’t ask for.” That’s not what happens here. I’m a psychologist who genuinely believes therapy shouldn’t feel like you’re being analysed under fluorescent lighting. It should feel collaborative, clear & human. You deserve support that makes sense in real life. No "hacks". My approach is simple. I get to know you properly. We figure out what’s getting in your way. And we build tools that actually work in your day-to-day life. No unnecessary jargon.
Let’s be honest. Walking into therapy can feel intimidating. The old-school image of psychology is still very “serious face, intimidating suit, big words you didn’t ask for.” That’s not what happens here. I’m a psychologist who genuinely believes therapy shouldn’t feel like you’re being analysed under fluorescent lighting. It should feel collaborative, clear & human. You deserve support that makes sense in real life. No "hacks". My approach is simple. I get to know you properly. We figure out what’s getting in your way. And we build tools that actually work in your day-to-day life. No unnecessary jargon.
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Sera Elmasri
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I provide effective treatment to adults experiencing Anxiety, Panic attacks, OCD, Depression, Low Self -Esteem, Acute and Chronic stress & Burnout. I am My approach is to: (1) Understand the client as well as the environments in which they function (2) Teach clients effective techniques and coping strategies (3) Build strong skills to create sustainable change. Many people have seen various therapists throughout their lifetimes. Often they find themselves relapsing back to the same problems. Clients who undertake counselling with me will be guided on how to change long standing patterns of negative behaviours and progress forward.
I provide effective treatment to adults experiencing Anxiety, Panic attacks, OCD, Depression, Low Self -Esteem, Acute and Chronic stress & Burnout. I am My approach is to: (1) Understand the client as well as the environments in which they function (2) Teach clients effective techniques and coping strategies (3) Build strong skills to create sustainable change. Many people have seen various therapists throughout their lifetimes. Often they find themselves relapsing back to the same problems. Clients who undertake counselling with me will be guided on how to change long standing patterns of negative behaviours and progress forward.
(02) 7501 1558 View (02) 7501 1558
TaylorMade Counselling
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Serves Area
I have extensive experience across a broad range of social work and counselling sectors including youth justice, family violence, sexual assault, child protection, the Indigenous community, defence, the veteran community, mental health, training and professional development, hospitals, international development and child protection.
TaylorMade Counselling has been designed to work with people of all ages who are looking for a comfortable and safe environment to have life changing, meaningful and practical conversations. The TaylorMade journey began with a single goal; to be able to connect with people and to support them to reconnect with themselves. I wanted TaylorMade to be about empowering people who are experiencing challenges, to encourage them to look at their lives from different angles, to reframe their thinking, to recognise and acknowledge their strengths and triumphs, in order to facilitate them to make positive changes, so that they can lead happy and fulfilling lives.
I have extensive experience across a broad range of social work and counselling sectors including youth justice, family violence, sexual assault, child protection, the Indigenous community, defence, the veteran community, mental health, training and professional development, hospitals, international development and child protection.
TaylorMade Counselling has been designed to work with people of all ages who are looking for a comfortable and safe environment to have life changing, meaningful and practical conversations. The TaylorMade journey began with a single goal; to be able to connect with people and to support them to reconnect with themselves. I wanted TaylorMade to be about empowering people who are experiencing challenges, to encourage them to look at their lives from different angles, to reframe their thinking, to recognise and acknowledge their strengths and triumphs, in order to facilitate them to make positive changes, so that they can lead happy and fulfilling lives.
(03) 9069 9437 View (03) 9069 9437
Sweeney O'Heare-Young
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
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
RMB Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Online Only
The key to successful therapy is the therapeutic relationship you and I develop over time. I know that you need to be seen, heard, validated and be able to trust me so I can provide you a safe trauma-informed care and practice. This model focuses on providing you with a safe space to explore and understand your life. I ask 'What happened to you?' and I bear witness to your story. I am a Level 3 Internal Family Systems Therapist, EMDR Consultant (in training), and a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (in training Advanced). On occasions, I am also Program Assistant on IFSI trainings in Australia.
The key to successful therapy is the therapeutic relationship you and I develop over time. I know that you need to be seen, heard, validated and be able to trust me so I can provide you a safe trauma-informed care and practice. This model focuses on providing you with a safe space to explore and understand your life. I ask 'What happened to you?' and I bear witness to your story. I am a Level 3 Internal Family Systems Therapist, EMDR Consultant (in training), and a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (in training Advanced). On occasions, I am also Program Assistant on IFSI trainings in Australia.
(03) 8372 0563 View (03) 8372 0563
Leah Wilson
Counsellor, PACFA
Serves Area
The mind and body are inseparable systems. When one heals, the other follows. The mind and body are inseparable systems, constantly influencing how we think, feel, and act. When stress or uncertainty take hold, neural pathways narrow, and clarity fades. Through neuroscience-informed counselling and integrative coaching, I help you restore balance to your nervous system and strengthen the neural connections that support calm, confidence, and emotional intelligence. This is not simply about coping; it’s about rewiring the brain for long-term resilience.
The mind and body are inseparable systems. When one heals, the other follows. The mind and body are inseparable systems, constantly influencing how we think, feel, and act. When stress or uncertainty take hold, neural pathways narrow, and clarity fades. Through neuroscience-informed counselling and integrative coaching, I help you restore balance to your nervous system and strengthen the neural connections that support calm, confidence, and emotional intelligence. This is not simply about coping; it’s about rewiring the brain for long-term resilience.
(03) 7003 2690 View (03) 7003 2690
Aish Nair
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Aish (She/her) has experience working with people across the lifespan and from diverse backgrounds, presenting with issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, trauma and personality disorders. She has extensive experience working with young people, particularly those with complex needs. She is particularly interested in trauma-based work. She uses CBT, DBT, ACT and Mindfulness-based practices. She builds honest, open and empathetic relationships with her clients. She has a commitment to collaborating with clients in a non-judgmental way to help them build a life worth living.
Aish (She/her) has experience working with people across the lifespan and from diverse backgrounds, presenting with issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, trauma and personality disorders. She has extensive experience working with young people, particularly those with complex needs. She is particularly interested in trauma-based work. She uses CBT, DBT, ACT and Mindfulness-based practices. She builds honest, open and empathetic relationships with her clients. She has a commitment to collaborating with clients in a non-judgmental way to help them build a life worth living.
(03) 7003 2466 View (03) 7003 2466
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
Charles Maddison
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
Traumatised people typically show common symptoms such as general & social anxiety, poor anger management, emotional dysregulation, relationship challenges, procrastination, poor sleep & substance abuse.
It's my job to make myself redundant with clients, to help them end their work with me equipped with insights & skills to better manage emotional challenges. I use EMDR to treat trauma, mostly seeing survivors of childhood, military, family and sexual trauma. EMDR can also be helpful with workplace & social anxiety. In addition, I counsel adults with symptoms of autism such as rigid thinking, communication challenges and excess emotional distress. I offer a space where challenging thoughts can be explored safely - with courage, imagination & some humour, but no nonsense. If the client agrees with my assessment, we go from there.
Traumatised people typically show common symptoms such as general & social anxiety, poor anger management, emotional dysregulation, relationship challenges, procrastination, poor sleep & substance abuse.
It's my job to make myself redundant with clients, to help them end their work with me equipped with insights & skills to better manage emotional challenges. I use EMDR to treat trauma, mostly seeing survivors of childhood, military, family and sexual trauma. EMDR can also be helpful with workplace & social anxiety. In addition, I counsel adults with symptoms of autism such as rigid thinking, communication challenges and excess emotional distress. I offer a space where challenging thoughts can be explored safely - with courage, imagination & some humour, but no nonsense. If the client agrees with my assessment, we go from there.
(03) 7003 2045 View (03) 7003 2045
Kayleigh Young
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Clinical Psychologist and Board-Approved Supervisor working with adults experiencing anxiety, stress, trauma, burnout and workplace challenges. I often work with thoughtful, capable individuals who are used to coping well but find themselves feeling overwhelmed, stuck or burnt out. This may relate to demanding roles, relationship difficulties or significant life transitions. Many are used to being the one others rely on and are now looking for space to step back, make sense of what is happening, and move forward with greater clarity, confidence and practical strategies.
I am a Clinical Psychologist and Board-Approved Supervisor working with adults experiencing anxiety, stress, trauma, burnout and workplace challenges. I often work with thoughtful, capable individuals who are used to coping well but find themselves feeling overwhelmed, stuck or burnt out. This may relate to demanding roles, relationship difficulties or significant life transitions. Many are used to being the one others rely on and are now looking for space to step back, make sense of what is happening, and move forward with greater clarity, confidence and practical strategies.
(03) 9068 5543 View (03) 9068 5543
Ana Romero
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Ana, a psychologist who is dedicated to helping you become the best version of yourself and reach your full potential. My areas of focus are trauma, ADHD, anxiety, eating disorders and Borderline personality disorder. I draw on 17 years of experience in psychology to provide bespoke and engaging therapeutic experience underpinned by Schema Therapy, Eye Movement Sensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), DBT, mindfulness and self compassion based approaches. Initially, my goal is to bring symptom relief from stress, anxiety, or traumatic symptoms before we embark on deeper work to create long-term change.
Hi, I'm Ana, a psychologist who is dedicated to helping you become the best version of yourself and reach your full potential. My areas of focus are trauma, ADHD, anxiety, eating disorders and Borderline personality disorder. I draw on 17 years of experience in psychology to provide bespoke and engaging therapeutic experience underpinned by Schema Therapy, Eye Movement Sensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), DBT, mindfulness and self compassion based approaches. Initially, my goal is to bring symptom relief from stress, anxiety, or traumatic symptoms before we embark on deeper work to create long-term change.
(03) 7003 2727 View (03) 7003 2727
Irene Quintavalle
Psychotherapist, ACA-L3
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Whether you are experiencing difficulties in your relationship with your family or you are dealing with challenges at work or in your life, a therapeutic relationship can help you. I have extensive training in the integrative approach to psychotherapy and more than a decade of expertise in the practice of yoga and bodywork. For this reason, I work with both mind and body awareness. I draw upon different evidence-based models and theories to create a treatment that addresses your unique experiences and concerns.
Whether you are experiencing difficulties in your relationship with your family or you are dealing with challenges at work or in your life, a therapeutic relationship can help you. I have extensive training in the integrative approach to psychotherapy and more than a decade of expertise in the practice of yoga and bodywork. For this reason, I work with both mind and body awareness. I draw upon different evidence-based models and theories to create a treatment that addresses your unique experiences and concerns.
(03) 7003 2737 View (03) 7003 2737
Clare McDonald
Social Worker, AMHSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have particular expertise working with victim/survivors of abuse, women's health, trauma, grief, low self-esteem, loneliness, and questions of identity and belonging.
I offer therapy to people navigating identity and belonging, relationship difficulties, and life changes, as well as more complex mental health concerns. Rather than focusing on symptoms alone, I'm interested in what lies beneath. I am an accredited Mental Health Social Worker and Gestalt Psychotherapist with 11 years' experience across public/private settings. I hold a Bachelor's (Honours) from Ireland, four years of advanced Gestalt Psychotherapy training, and an MPhil. from Melbourne University, focusing on reproductive justice.
I have particular expertise working with victim/survivors of abuse, women's health, trauma, grief, low self-esteem, loneliness, and questions of identity and belonging.
I offer therapy to people navigating identity and belonging, relationship difficulties, and life changes, as well as more complex mental health concerns. Rather than focusing on symptoms alone, I'm interested in what lies beneath. I am an accredited Mental Health Social Worker and Gestalt Psychotherapist with 11 years' experience across public/private settings. I hold a Bachelor's (Honours) from Ireland, four years of advanced Gestalt Psychotherapy training, and an MPhil. from Melbourne University, focusing on reproductive justice.
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Domestic Abuse Therapists
What are the most effective ways to recover from domestic abuse?
Leaving an abusive relationship requires tremendous courage, so survivors in treatment should recognise that they have already completed the most important step. Still, the trauma of physical or emotional abuse can be difficult to process and overcome. Therapy can help survivors process trauma, grief, and difficult emotions, treat relevant mental health symptoms, and create a new framework for boundaries and relationships in the future. For some, support groups can also be an invaluable outlet for healing.

When should an individual seek help for domestic abuse?
Victims of intimate partner violence should seek help immediately. It can take substantial time, planning, energy, and courage to leave an abusive relationship, but starting the process—by seeking therapy, calling the domestic violence hotline, or simply confiding in a loved one—will help them get there. Those who have left abusive relationships but haven’t sought treatment can also greatly benefit from therapy to process and heal from the experience.

What are the consequences of staying in an abusive relationship?
Remaining in an abusive relationship has serious repercussions. In addition to the ongoing threat of physical danger and emotional abuse, research shows that intimate partner violence is associated with a range of mental health disorders including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and substance abuse. Therefore it’s important for individuals in an abusive relationship to seek help as soon as possible.

How can you get domestic abuse treatment for someone else?
It can be very complicated to identify and leave an abusive relationship; barriers include the threat of violence, financial instability, and family pressures. Those concerned about a loved one in an abusive relationship should talk to them about the situation, provide them with resources such as the domestic violence hotline, and introduce the idea of seeing a therapist due to their concern for the person’s safety and well-being.