Women's Issues Psychologists and Therapists in East Melbourne, VIC

Photo of Apurva Nargundkar - Luminare Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Luminare Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
My name is Apurva Nargundkar, I am the director and principal psychologist at Luminare Psychology. I am passionate about working with adults presenting with a range of issues, particularly with anxiety, LGBTQIA+/gender diversity, women's mental health, Culturally and Linguistically Diversity (CALD) issues, and intersectional experiences (i.e. those who are part of the LGBTQIA+ community while navigating cultural or religious pressure). I offer a safe space for my clients to explore their issues without judgement.
My name is Apurva Nargundkar, I am the director and principal psychologist at Luminare Psychology. I am passionate about working with adults presenting with a range of issues, particularly with anxiety, LGBTQIA+/gender diversity, women's mental health, Culturally and Linguistically Diversity (CALD) issues, and intersectional experiences (i.e. those who are part of the LGBTQIA+ community while navigating cultural or religious pressure). I offer a safe space for my clients to explore their issues without judgement.
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 Dr Mariel Francina Sanchez-Rockliffe, Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Dr Mariel Francina Sanchez-Rockliffe
Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
I am a fully registered counselling psychologist with over 24 years experience working with individuals, couples, families, and elderly clients. My aim is to help clients develop therapeutic goals and work with them to achieve lasting change. Drawing on my own experience of life transitions, I bring a personal perspective to counselling, helping people from different cultural backgrounds. My approach is friendly and practical in order to create a safe and comfortable environment in which to explore difficulties and realise positive change.
I am a fully registered counselling psychologist with over 24 years experience working with individuals, couples, families, and elderly clients. My aim is to help clients develop therapeutic goals and work with them to achieve lasting change. Drawing on my own experience of life transitions, I bring a personal perspective to counselling, helping people from different cultural backgrounds. My approach is friendly and practical in order to create a safe and comfortable environment in which to explore difficulties and realise positive change.
(03) 7003 2816 View (03) 7003 2816
Photo of Rachel Dao, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Rachel Dao
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
I am a Clinical Psychologist with focus areas on Relationship & Family Issues, Work Related Stress, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Neurodiversity, Anxious or Avoidant Attachment and working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community. I work with adults, children, and adolescents. I accept NDIS, Workcover and TAC patients. I offer couples therapy and have participated in Certification Consultation Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, using Gottman Method Couples Therapy in my therapy work.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with focus areas on Relationship & Family Issues, Work Related Stress, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Neurodiversity, Anxious or Avoidant Attachment and working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community. I work with adults, children, and adolescents. I accept NDIS, Workcover and TAC patients. I offer couples therapy and have participated in Certification Consultation Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, using Gottman Method Couples Therapy in my therapy work.
(03) 7076 3400 View (03) 7076 3400
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
Photo of Jessica Hack, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Jessica Hack
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
Hi, I'm Jess! When seeing me, you can expect a warm, genuine clinician who makes you feel heard. Whether you are looking for support during a challenging time or wish to gain a deeper understanding of self-defeating coping strategies, I aim to provide you with a space to reflect and learn about yourself. As a therapist, I work from the belief that relationships are both the source of our deepest wounds and the space where true healing can take place. The therapeutic relationship itself can be a corrective emotional experience—one that fosters trust, empowerment, and the reweaving of secure attachment.
Hi, I'm Jess! When seeing me, you can expect a warm, genuine clinician who makes you feel heard. Whether you are looking for support during a challenging time or wish to gain a deeper understanding of self-defeating coping strategies, I aim to provide you with a space to reflect and learn about yourself. As a therapist, I work from the belief that relationships are both the source of our deepest wounds and the space where true healing can take place. The therapeutic relationship itself can be a corrective emotional experience—one that fosters trust, empowerment, and the reweaving of secure attachment.
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Photo of Shiva Chouhan, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Shiva Chouhan
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
Welcoming adults navigating anxiety, trauma, transitions, childhood wounds and life changes. In a warm and collaborative space, our work will blend EMDR, ACT, CBT and psychodynamic practices - customized to your pace and goals. Currently accepting new clients, offering both in-person sessions locally and telehealth across Australia (Medicare rebates available with GP referral; NDIS registered provider).
Welcoming adults navigating anxiety, trauma, transitions, childhood wounds and life changes. In a warm and collaborative space, our work will blend EMDR, ACT, CBT and psychodynamic practices - customized to your pace and goals. Currently accepting new clients, offering both in-person sessions locally and telehealth across Australia (Medicare rebates available with GP referral; NDIS registered provider).
(03) 7003 2544 View (03) 7003 2544
Photo of Kaye Suringa, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Kaye Suringa
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Online Only
Kaye is a sex worker allied BPD and Bipolar psychologist. Her therapy is anti-oppressive, treating symptoms that are the result of societal pressure, traditional roles and external expectations. Kaye is sex worker friendly, neuro and gender affirming, with expertise at organising the experience people of colour have, living within modern Australian culture
Kaye is a sex worker allied BPD and Bipolar psychologist. Her therapy is anti-oppressive, treating symptoms that are the result of societal pressure, traditional roles and external expectations. Kaye is sex worker friendly, neuro and gender affirming, with expertise at organising the experience people of colour have, living within modern Australian culture
(03) 7076 3400 View (03) 7076 3400
Photo of Emily Clinch, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Emily Clinch
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
I work with clients from my office in East Melbourne and online Australia wide. I am a credentialed eating disorder clinician and EMDR Therapist who works with adolescents and adults to help empower them to be the best version of themselves. A
I work with clients from my office in East Melbourne and online Australia wide. I am a credentialed eating disorder clinician and EMDR Therapist who works with adolescents and adults to help empower them to be the best version of themselves. A
(03) 7003 2241 View (03) 7003 2241
Photo of Rebecca Hirst, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Rebecca Hirst
Psychotherapist, PACFA
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
We all face challenges in our complex lives, and psychotherapy can provide a space and relationship to hold and transform what might otherwise feel unmanageable. You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, heightened stress, grief and loss, the effects of trauma, self-esteem and identity issues, body image concerns, relationship/attachment issues, overwhelming emotions, existential concerns, or a myriad of other challenges. These concerns may be new, or long-standing; mild, or severe.
We all face challenges in our complex lives, and psychotherapy can provide a space and relationship to hold and transform what might otherwise feel unmanageable. You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, heightened stress, grief and loss, the effects of trauma, self-esteem and identity issues, body image concerns, relationship/attachment issues, overwhelming emotions, existential concerns, or a myriad of other challenges. These concerns may be new, or long-standing; mild, or severe.
0466 585 424 View 0466 585 424
Photo of Susie Kim, Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Susie Kim
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
I am a registered relational psychotherapist who brings together the principles of client-centred humanistic psychology and the deep insight of psychodynamic psychotherapy. With a comprehensive understanding of attachment, trauma, mind-body, and intersectionality, I can help you to navigate challenging mental health or support you towards deeper emotional awareness through an explorative journey of self-discovery.
I am a registered relational psychotherapist who brings together the principles of client-centred humanistic psychology and the deep insight of psychodynamic psychotherapy. With a comprehensive understanding of attachment, trauma, mind-body, and intersectionality, I can help you to navigate challenging mental health or support you towards deeper emotional awareness through an explorative journey of self-discovery.
0408 286 501 View 0408 286 501
Photo of Danu Sivanathan, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
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
Photo of Agnieszka Mazus M.c. M.sc. M.a., Counsellor, MSc, PACFA
Agnieszka Mazus M.c. M.sc. M.a.
Counsellor, MSc, PACFA
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
Relationship counsellor. Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT), Gottman l.2. Academic background, PACFA-registration. Empathy, perspective, ethics, inclusion, no-judgment. In-person (Melbourne and Gisborne) & online. Languages: English, Spanish, Polish. Clients: couples and individuals. Goal: make every client feel heard, understood, and professionally supported. I help couples with communication, connection, recovery from crisis, infidelity, rupture and life demands. I support clients through life changes, breakup, and adjustment problems. Unbiased, non-judgmental, respecting cultural and gender diversity.
Relationship counsellor. Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT), Gottman l.2. Academic background, PACFA-registration. Empathy, perspective, ethics, inclusion, no-judgment. In-person (Melbourne and Gisborne) & online. Languages: English, Spanish, Polish. Clients: couples and individuals. Goal: make every client feel heard, understood, and professionally supported. I help couples with communication, connection, recovery from crisis, infidelity, rupture and life demands. I support clients through life changes, breakup, and adjustment problems. Unbiased, non-judgmental, respecting cultural and gender diversity.
(03) 7003 2961 View (03) 7003 2961
Photo of Christy Champoise, Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Christy Champoise
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
Hi, My name is Christy, I am an Integrative Psychotherapist and Counsellor working in East Melbourne and Thornbury. I have a passion for a holistic model of transforming the human experience which focuses on creativity, embodiment, mindfulness, and somatic awareness. I work in an integrative way using many models of therapy including emotion-focused, strengths-based, and humanistic. I help clients define their values, understand their motivations and explore their relationship to themselves and others on a deeper level.
Hi, My name is Christy, I am an Integrative Psychotherapist and Counsellor working in East Melbourne and Thornbury. I have a passion for a holistic model of transforming the human experience which focuses on creativity, embodiment, mindfulness, and somatic awareness. I work in an integrative way using many models of therapy including emotion-focused, strengths-based, and humanistic. I help clients define their values, understand their motivations and explore their relationship to themselves and others on a deeper level.
(03) 7003 2500 View (03) 7003 2500
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 Sophia Robinson, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Sophia Robinson
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
Waitlist for new clients
Sophia is a psychotherapist in private practice who works with individuals and couples. As an Integrative Psychotherapist, Sophia works collaboratively with a relational focus to accommodate the individual needs of her clients. She hopes to create a safe and supportive environment for clients to engage in meaningful personal exploration. Working with an awareness of both mind and body, Sophia believes strongly in our innate capacity to create lasting personal change.
Sophia is a psychotherapist in private practice who works with individuals and couples. As an Integrative Psychotherapist, Sophia works collaboratively with a relational focus to accommodate the individual needs of her clients. She hopes to create a safe and supportive environment for clients to engage in meaningful personal exploration. Working with an awareness of both mind and body, Sophia believes strongly in our innate capacity to create lasting personal change.
(03) 7003 2375 View (03) 7003 2375
Photo of Sayaka Sayeed, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
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
Photo of Kamila Schneltser, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Kamila Schneltser
Psychotherapist, PACFA
7 Endorsed
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
At the heart of my work is the commitment to foster a therapeutic space where you can safely navigate through personal challenges, such as relationship issues, attachment difficulties, immigration/cultural hardships, trauma, grief and depression. My practice is open to people of all genders, backgrounds, and identities, and I aim to create a safe, supportive space for each individual’s unique experience.
At the heart of my work is the commitment to foster a therapeutic space where you can safely navigate through personal challenges, such as relationship issues, attachment difficulties, immigration/cultural hardships, trauma, grief and depression. My practice is open to people of all genders, backgrounds, and identities, and I aim to create a safe, supportive space for each individual’s unique experience.
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Photo of Martha Roumanis, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Martha Roumanis
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Thank you for taking time to read my profile. I am an AHPRA registered and endorsed clinical psychologist and I have over 19 years experience in both the public sector and private setting. I practice from a holistic, empathic and humble approach and have an understanding that each client is a unique individual and treatment is tailored to meet their needs. My person-centered approach is one that facilitates a collaborative therapeutic relationship with a client/s and will assist the person to navigate through life by facilitating hope, meaning and reward in a supportive and therapeutic setting.
Thank you for taking time to read my profile. I am an AHPRA registered and endorsed clinical psychologist and I have over 19 years experience in both the public sector and private setting. I practice from a holistic, empathic and humble approach and have an understanding that each client is a unique individual and treatment is tailored to meet their needs. My person-centered approach is one that facilitates a collaborative therapeutic relationship with a client/s and will assist the person to navigate through life by facilitating hope, meaning and reward in a supportive and therapeutic setting.
(02) 4810 0663 View (02) 4810 0663
Photo of Dr Alexandra Petrik, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Alexandra Petrik
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr Alexandra Petrik is a Clinical Psychologist with expertise in delivering assessments and clinical treatment in both public and private settings. She describes her therapeutic style as collaborative, warm, supportive, strength-based, and motivational. Alexandra works with both adults and adolescents to achieve positive change with a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, abuse, grief and loss, workplace issues, relationship difficulties, self-esteem/confidence, and a broad range of mental health and wellbeing challenges.
Dr Alexandra Petrik is a Clinical Psychologist with expertise in delivering assessments and clinical treatment in both public and private settings. She describes her therapeutic style as collaborative, warm, supportive, strength-based, and motivational. Alexandra works with both adults and adolescents to achieve positive change with a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, abuse, grief and loss, workplace issues, relationship difficulties, self-esteem/confidence, and a broad range of mental health and wellbeing challenges.
(03) 7003 2878 View (03) 7003 2878
Women's Issues Therapists
How do you encourage a woman to go to therapy?
It’s helpful to express concern and love for the person while framing therapy as a tool for improving their life. Offering specific examples of how an individual may be suffering, and what effects it has on them, should be done with compassion and with empathy. It may be useful to devise a game plan—breaking the process down into parts, such as finding a therapist, making appointments, and looking into insurance coverage.

How can women prepare for therapy?
Women can prepare for therapy by being willing to talk about their past experiences and their private thoughts. Before a session, an individual may want to reflect on how they’ve felt since the last session and what’s happened in their lives. Between sessions, it can be useful to write down notes about their reaction to a given event or how they felt at a particular time.

How long does therapy for women’s issues often last?
As with any type of therapy, sessions depend on the individual and the challenges they face. Therapy types like Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), Prolonged exposure therapy (PET), and Eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR) can be brief, most often ranging from between 5 and 20 sessions. In some cases, such as for women with eating disorders, residential treatment may be recommended for an individual who is judged to be at high risk of self-harm. For any therapy, the duration will depend on the progress made and results realised.

How can women overcome stigma around specific challenges in order to seek therapy?
Women dealing with domestic abuse, sexual assault, eating disorders, and any other number of troubles may feel a stigma around seeking help. It’s important to remember that these issues are not uncommon and there is no shame in getting help for them. Therapy is confidential, and women can talk about their experiences without fear of judgment. Seeking therapy can be a courageous and liberating act, and an important step toward healing and recovery.