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

Photo of Francesca Lion, Psychotherapist
Francesca Lion
Psychotherapist
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
My clients often feel held back by intense physical or emotional responses that limits their enjoyment and potential in life. Many come to me because anxiety or fears—specifically dental, medical, or flight anxiety—prevent them from accessing healthcare or living fully. Others are exhausted by insomnia or low self-confidence. If you feel your "fight or flight" response is constantly overreacting, or you are tired of talking about problems without feeling a shift in your body, we may be a good fit. I help you bridge the gap between the mind and the nervous system, updating subconscious patterns of avoidance with curiosity and calm.
My clients often feel held back by intense physical or emotional responses that limits their enjoyment and potential in life. Many come to me because anxiety or fears—specifically dental, medical, or flight anxiety—prevent them from accessing healthcare or living fully. Others are exhausted by insomnia or low self-confidence. If you feel your "fight or flight" response is constantly overreacting, or you are tired of talking about problems without feeling a shift in your body, we may be a good fit. I help you bridge the gap between the mind and the nervous system, updating subconscious patterns of avoidance with curiosity and calm.
(03) 6134 8607 View (03) 6134 8607
Gill Dolan - Plus 1 Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
I am passionate about helping individuals heal from incidents they have experienced as traumatic. I have a particular interest in working with first responders and veterans, as well as those who have encountered distressing interpersonal difficulties, often within their family of origin.
I am passionate about helping individuals heal from incidents they have experienced as traumatic. I have a particular interest in working with first responders and veterans, as well as those who have encountered distressing interpersonal difficulties, often within their family of origin.
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Photo of Tammie Tran - Wholehearted Relationship Therapy, Counsellor
Wholehearted Relationship Therapy
Counsellor
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My approach utilises evidence-based modalities like Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT) and Internal Family Systems ( IFS).
In my work with individuals, I offer a gentle and understanding approach. Incorporating trauma-informed practices, I also believe in the power of utilising your inner strengths and lean on a strengths-based approach to help you recognise and build upon your existing resources
My approach utilises evidence-based modalities like Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT) and Internal Family Systems ( IFS).
In my work with individuals, I offer a gentle and understanding approach. Incorporating trauma-informed practices, I also believe in the power of utilising your inner strengths and lean on a strengths-based approach to help you recognise and build upon your existing resources
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Photo of Bilal Reda, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Bilal Reda
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
I am a Melbourne-based clinical psychologist with a curiosity for people and their patterning. I see therapy as the play and poetics between two strangers in service of healing.
I am a Melbourne-based clinical psychologist with a curiosity for people and their patterning. I see therapy as the play and poetics between two strangers in service of healing.
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Photo of Jamie Unicomb, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Jamie Unicomb
Psychotherapist, PACFA
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
Are you feeling stuck, lost, struggling with some difficult experiences, or just need help holding your head above water in our dizzy, complex world? I can help you find relief from your pain, freedom from old patterns and create a life that is a vital, sustainable and authentic reflection of who you are at you best. I'll also be there to listen without judgement and support you, however it is you turn up, even in your darkest moments. I bring whole self to our engagement and I invite you to bring as much of yourself as you are willing. I will meet you with compassion, curiosity and acceptance and help you get the life you want
Are you feeling stuck, lost, struggling with some difficult experiences, or just need help holding your head above water in our dizzy, complex world? I can help you find relief from your pain, freedom from old patterns and create a life that is a vital, sustainable and authentic reflection of who you are at you best. I'll also be there to listen without judgement and support you, however it is you turn up, even in your darkest moments. I bring whole self to our engagement and I invite you to bring as much of yourself as you are willing. I will meet you with compassion, curiosity and acceptance and help you get the life you want
0412 341 778 View 0412 341 778
Photo of Siobhan McKenna, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Siobhan McKenna
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
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
Photo of Li Michelle Chen - Michelle Chen, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Michelle Chen
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
3 Endorsed
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
My ideal clients are individuals and couples who feel emotionally disconnected, overwhelmed, or stuck in repeating patterns. They may be healing from trauma, navigating cross-cultural relationships, or struggling with anxiety, burnout, or low self-worth. Many long for deeper connection, calm, and authenticity. They want to understand themselves, rebuild trust, and find balance in mind, body, and spirit through a holistic approach that integrates emotional awareness, mindfulness, and practical tools for lasting change.
My ideal clients are individuals and couples who feel emotionally disconnected, overwhelmed, or stuck in repeating patterns. They may be healing from trauma, navigating cross-cultural relationships, or struggling with anxiety, burnout, or low self-worth. Many long for deeper connection, calm, and authenticity. They want to understand themselves, rebuild trust, and find balance in mind, body, and spirit through a holistic approach that integrates emotional awareness, mindfulness, and practical tools for lasting change.
(03) 7500 5455 View (03) 7500 5455
Photo of Tim Fraser, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Tim Fraser
Psychotherapist, PACFA
5 Endorsed
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
Do you frequently worry that your romantic partner won’t care about you as much as you care about them? Or that they won't love you for who you are or be there for you if you open up to them? If you're hoping to feel safe, loved, and accepted in your relationship or friendships, but you can never find people who make you feel this or you never give them the chance to do so, you likely have an attachment issue. I specialise in working with insecure attachment styles, working to help clients find security in a relationship for the first time and to develop a healthier, kinder view of themselves.
Do you frequently worry that your romantic partner won’t care about you as much as you care about them? Or that they won't love you for who you are or be there for you if you open up to them? If you're hoping to feel safe, loved, and accepted in your relationship or friendships, but you can never find people who make you feel this or you never give them the chance to do so, you likely have an attachment issue. I specialise in working with insecure attachment styles, working to help clients find security in a relationship for the first time and to develop a healthier, kinder view of themselves.
(03) 8338 1266 View (03) 8338 1266
Photo of Justine Campbell, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Justine Campbell
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Don't expect to see a change if you don't make one. I enable positive change. My clients may have seen a therapist or coach before, but it didn't change anything for them. They then come to me. They want to make lasting positive change in their lives, but they need somebody to give them structured tools and support them in the growth process. Change can be good, but it is not easy. Typically, my clients come to me feeling that living on auto-pilot or that they have lost touch with who they are at their core. They desire more life satisfaction and are prepared to work for it. They want to thrive not just survive.
Don't expect to see a change if you don't make one. I enable positive change. My clients may have seen a therapist or coach before, but it didn't change anything for them. They then come to me. They want to make lasting positive change in their lives, but they need somebody to give them structured tools and support them in the growth process. Change can be good, but it is not easy. Typically, my clients come to me feeling that living on auto-pilot or that they have lost touch with who they are at their core. They desire more life satisfaction and are prepared to work for it. They want to thrive not just survive.
(03) 7003 2183 View (03) 7003 2183
Photo of Cassandra Scicluna, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Cassandra Scicluna
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I am a Psychologist who cares about your mental health. I provide warm and compassionate support to individuals and have a special interest in working with women. I aim to provide you with a safe and calming space to help reduce your distress, build your resilience and improve your connection to others and life.
I am a Psychologist who cares about your mental health. I provide warm and compassionate support to individuals and have a special interest in working with women. I aim to provide you with a safe and calming space to help reduce your distress, build your resilience and improve your connection to others and life.
(03) 8771 4615 View (03) 8771 4615
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 Ana-Louise Almagro, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Ana-Louise Almagro
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Serves Area
My areas of interest are couples counselling, trauma and anxiety. I work primarily using CBT, Schema, EMDR and Gottman Method.
My areas of interest are couples counselling, trauma and anxiety. I work primarily using CBT, Schema, EMDR and Gottman Method.
(03) 7003 2488 View (03) 7003 2488
Photo of Nathan Smith, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Nathan Smith
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I integrated therapies of Gestalt, CBT/DBT, Emotion Focussed Therapy, Internal Family Systems Theory, Narrative, and brief Solution Focussed Therapies.
I have a passion for working with young people to empower and support them with their challenges. I also work with people of all ages and gender identities. Whether you are looking for support with anxiety, depression, AOD, relationship issues, or any thing else I'd be happy to help. I also facilitate Dungeons and Dragons Group Therapy sessions for clients wanting to use play and roleplay therapy toward their healing. This is a great way to boost self-esteem and confidence, work through anxiety and depression, and process trauma.
I integrated therapies of Gestalt, CBT/DBT, Emotion Focussed Therapy, Internal Family Systems Theory, Narrative, and brief Solution Focussed Therapies.
I have a passion for working with young people to empower and support them with their challenges. I also work with people of all ages and gender identities. Whether you are looking for support with anxiety, depression, AOD, relationship issues, or any thing else I'd be happy to help. I also facilitate Dungeons and Dragons Group Therapy sessions for clients wanting to use play and roleplay therapy toward their healing. This is a great way to boost self-esteem and confidence, work through anxiety and depression, and process trauma.
(03) 8594 4097 View (03) 8594 4097
Photo of George Nelson, Counsellor, ACA-L4
George Nelson
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Serves Area
George is a qualified psychotherapist, coach, clinical counsellor, relationship therapist, educator, speech therapist, voice production and training consultant. George has worked with children, teenagers and adults to help them with communication, speech, voice production and dramatic expression for presentation, (certain clients include news-presenters, actors, reporters and radio announcers). Working with individuals, couples & adolescents, George has developed a specialisation for relationship/couples counselling, family therapy as well as Men’s Health (for men, their partners and families).
George is a qualified psychotherapist, coach, clinical counsellor, relationship therapist, educator, speech therapist, voice production and training consultant. George has worked with children, teenagers and adults to help them with communication, speech, voice production and dramatic expression for presentation, (certain clients include news-presenters, actors, reporters and radio announcers). Working with individuals, couples & adolescents, George has developed a specialisation for relationship/couples counselling, family therapy as well as Men’s Health (for men, their partners and families).
(03) 7302 8896 View (03) 7302 8896

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Charlotte Parr, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Charlotte Parr
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Charlotte is a down-to-earth, Wollongong & Sydney-based psychologist. She empowers people to take responsibility for their mental health, find their wisdom & guide them towards the life they want to lead. Charlotte’s approach is holistic, she bridges Western science with Eastern healing techniques. Known for her bold approach, she is able to see the best in people. Charlotte targets the emotional, cognitive, physical, behavioural, relational & spiritual levels of healing. Her approach is not a band-aid fix. She gets the full picture of your health and delves beneath the surface to support you to make lifelong sustainable changes.
Charlotte is a down-to-earth, Wollongong & Sydney-based psychologist. She empowers people to take responsibility for their mental health, find their wisdom & guide them towards the life they want to lead. Charlotte’s approach is holistic, she bridges Western science with Eastern healing techniques. Known for her bold approach, she is able to see the best in people. Charlotte targets the emotional, cognitive, physical, behavioural, relational & spiritual levels of healing. Her approach is not a band-aid fix. She gets the full picture of your health and delves beneath the surface to support you to make lifelong sustainable changes.
(02) 4214 8187 View (02) 4214 8187
Photo of Anugrah Bhagwat - Anugrah Bhagwat - Yellow Brick Counseling, Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Anugrah Bhagwat - Yellow Brick Counseling
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Box Hill North, VIC 3129
I'm truly interested in what my clients have to say. I am a warm, compassionate, non-judgmental, person-centered psychologist. I have practiced since 2011 - working with individuals, couples, families and groups. Using a EMDR, a trauma-informed approach, I walk beside clients on their healing journey. I use many creative Arts therapy, movement and bodywork techniques to process and expel trauma stored in the body. This keeps therapy gentle and non-threatening, whilst deepening the process at the same time. I empower and equip my clients to navigate the uncertainties of life and achieve the goals they set for themselves.
I'm truly interested in what my clients have to say. I am a warm, compassionate, non-judgmental, person-centered psychologist. I have practiced since 2011 - working with individuals, couples, families and groups. Using a EMDR, a trauma-informed approach, I walk beside clients on their healing journey. I use many creative Arts therapy, movement and bodywork techniques to process and expel trauma stored in the body. This keeps therapy gentle and non-threatening, whilst deepening the process at the same time. I empower and equip my clients to navigate the uncertainties of life and achieve the goals they set for themselves.
(02) 4504 0193 View (02) 4504 0193
Photo of Rosemary Kamel, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Rosemary Kamel
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Balwyn, VIC 3103
My therapy approach includes: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems ( IFS) Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Solutions Focused Therapy (SFT).
Hello, I’m Rosemary and I’m a registered psychologist. My therapeutic style is collaborative, and supportive. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is necessary to create change, and I therefore like to take the time to really get to know you. I value using evidence based approaches to work with you to meet your therapeutic goals by providing you with a non-judgmental, safe and engaging environment, to help you deal effectively with the challenges you are facing and developing skills and strategies to achieve your therapeutic goals.
My therapy approach includes: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems ( IFS) Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Solutions Focused Therapy (SFT).
Hello, I’m Rosemary and I’m a registered psychologist. My therapeutic style is collaborative, and supportive. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is necessary to create change, and I therefore like to take the time to really get to know you. I value using evidence based approaches to work with you to meet your therapeutic goals by providing you with a non-judgmental, safe and engaging environment, to help you deal effectively with the challenges you are facing and developing skills and strategies to achieve your therapeutic goals.
(03) 7003 2911 View (03) 7003 2911
Photo of Karen Dreher - Fitzroy North Counselling, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Fitzroy North Counselling
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Fitzroy North, VIC 3068
Karen works with adolescents, adults & couples. She has a particular interest in anxiety, depression, trauma, identity, grief, life transitions, & communication and relationships. In her confidential counselling space she helps clarify issues, identify goals, & explores thinking, emotions, and behaviour that may be getting us a little stuck. Karen provides a warm, authentic counselling space that will support you in sharing your story, in creating your own meaning, and in building your own strategies to navigate your identified concerns.
Karen works with adolescents, adults & couples. She has a particular interest in anxiety, depression, trauma, identity, grief, life transitions, & communication and relationships. In her confidential counselling space she helps clarify issues, identify goals, & explores thinking, emotions, and behaviour that may be getting us a little stuck. Karen provides a warm, authentic counselling space that will support you in sharing your story, in creating your own meaning, and in building your own strategies to navigate your identified concerns.
(03) 7003 2721 View (03) 7003 2721
Photo of Rick Whitehead, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Rick Whitehead
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Emerald, VIC 3782
I tend to utilise person-centred and interpersonal approach and use experiential therapies like Internal Family Systems and Gestalt
I love working with all types of people. I have a great appreciation for the courage it takes to come to therapy and value when clients are motivated, prepared to take risks and be vulnerable, even though these can be very difficult things. I also enjoy working with clients to integrate their own spirituality into the therapy process and help not only move through whatever challenges they are facing but also work towards connection to their own authentic self. I feel that everyone had the capacity to improve the way they interact with their experiences and to minimize any unnecessary suffering.
I tend to utilise person-centred and interpersonal approach and use experiential therapies like Internal Family Systems and Gestalt
I love working with all types of people. I have a great appreciation for the courage it takes to come to therapy and value when clients are motivated, prepared to take risks and be vulnerable, even though these can be very difficult things. I also enjoy working with clients to integrate their own spirituality into the therapy process and help not only move through whatever challenges they are facing but also work towards connection to their own authentic self. I feel that everyone had the capacity to improve the way they interact with their experiences and to minimize any unnecessary suffering.
(03) 5907 5272 View (03) 5907 5272
Photo of Clare Rantall, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Clare Rantall
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Online Only
Using a client-centred approach, I integrate Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Internal Family Systems ( IFS) to help clients build self-awareness, resilience and lasting emotional wellbeing.
My ideal client may be feeling overwhelmed and struggling with challenges such as low self-esteem, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, or major life transitions. They are seeking clarity, healing, and a deeper understanding of themselves. Often unsure of where to begin, they are looking for a safe, supportive, and non-judgemental space where they can feel heard and understood. Their goal is to grow, break unhelpful patterns, build resilience, and move toward a more authentic and empowered version of themselves with compassion, courage, and support.
Using a client-centred approach, I integrate Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Internal Family Systems ( IFS) to help clients build self-awareness, resilience and lasting emotional wellbeing.
My ideal client may be feeling overwhelmed and struggling with challenges such as low self-esteem, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, or major life transitions. They are seeking clarity, healing, and a deeper understanding of themselves. Often unsure of where to begin, they are looking for a safe, supportive, and non-judgemental space where they can feel heard and understood. Their goal is to grow, break unhelpful patterns, build resilience, and move toward a more authentic and empowered version of themselves with compassion, courage, and support.
0411 844 123 View 0411 844 123
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.