Grief Psychologists and Therapists in Elsternwick, VIC

Threshold Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Online Only
I also work in palliative care, where I’ve witnessed the resilience people find even in the midst of loss and transition.
Hi, I’m Adam. I’m a psychologist with experience working in community health clinics, schools, and the private sector. My approach is based on the belief that with the right support and awareness, people can navigate challenges, improve their mental health, and build more meaningful connections. I take the time to understand each person’s concerns in the context of their relationships, culture, identity, and life experiences.
I also work in palliative care, where I’ve witnessed the resilience people find even in the midst of loss and transition.
Hi, I’m Adam. I’m a psychologist with experience working in community health clinics, schools, and the private sector. My approach is based on the belief that with the right support and awareness, people can navigate challenges, improve their mental health, and build more meaningful connections. I take the time to understand each person’s concerns in the context of their relationships, culture, identity, and life experiences.
0426 237 629 View 0426 237 629
Izumi Yamaguchi
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Elsternwick, VIC 3185
I have experienced with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, addiction, adjustment problems and relationship concerns.
I am passionate to help clients overcome their challenges and take meaningful steps toward a better future. By exploring clients' internal conflicts and working on underlying vulnerabilities, I assist clients in finding ways together to alleviate or solve them.
I have experienced with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, addiction, adjustment problems and relationship concerns.
I am passionate to help clients overcome their challenges and take meaningful steps toward a better future. By exploring clients' internal conflicts and working on underlying vulnerabilities, I assist clients in finding ways together to alleviate or solve them.
(03) 7003 2420 View (03) 7003 2420
AJ D'Costa Counselling
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Whether you're navigating a specific challenge or exploring deeper life patterns, I offer kind, trauma-informed, evidence-based support for anxiety, depression, stress, grief, life transitions, self-esteem, cultural or religious concerns, LGBTQIA+ experiences, substance use, chronic health conditions, and more.
I integrate Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Gestalt Therapy. I also draw on Buddhist psychology and practical mindfulness and meditation practices if you're interested in exploring how this tradition can support modern therapy.
Whether you're navigating a specific challenge or exploring deeper life patterns, I offer kind, trauma-informed, evidence-based support for anxiety, depression, stress, grief, life transitions, self-esteem, cultural or religious concerns, LGBTQIA+ experiences, substance use, chronic health conditions, and more.
I integrate Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Gestalt Therapy. I also draw on Buddhist psychology and practical mindfulness and meditation practices if you're interested in exploring how this tradition can support modern therapy.
(03) 9909 8812 View (03) 9909 8812
Ilana Laps
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
I have 20 years of professional experience working with life's grief, bereavement and existential concerns, such as finding meaning after loss, being with and growing through traumatic events, and facing our own mortality.
Using a combination of Western and Eastern psychology, I help my clients feel their way through their challenges, attain emotional clarity and experience more of their human potential. We work at depth, gently unveiling the unconscious forces that shape our lives. This is powerful work, emotionally intimate, and recommended to those who are ready for change.
I have 20 years of professional experience working with life's grief, bereavement and existential concerns, such as finding meaning after loss, being with and growing through traumatic events, and facing our own mortality.
Using a combination of Western and Eastern psychology, I help my clients feel their way through their challenges, attain emotional clarity and experience more of their human potential. We work at depth, gently unveiling the unconscious forces that shape our lives. This is powerful work, emotionally intimate, and recommended to those who are ready for change.
(03) 7003 2636 View (03) 7003 2636
Kate Barber
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialise in providing support around anxiety, loss, grief and bereavement.
A diagnosis of cancer or a life limiting illness can turn your life up side down. Everything has suddenly changed and there are a lot of adjustments to make physically, mentally, sexually, emotionally. It can effect your relationships and those around you. It can feel like a very lonely time.
I specialise in providing support around anxiety, loss, grief and bereavement.
A diagnosis of cancer or a life limiting illness can turn your life up side down. Everything has suddenly changed and there are a lot of adjustments to make physically, mentally, sexually, emotionally. It can effect your relationships and those around you. It can feel like a very lonely time.
(03) 7003 2540 View (03) 7003 2540
Asher Lederman
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Elsternwick, VIC 3185
Hi, I'm Asher. I'm a psychologist with experience working in private sector, community health and hospitals. I am deeply committed to the idea that we can overcome negative patterns when our basic human needs are met: safety, connection and a sense that we're worthy. I've been described as warm, thoughtful and a good listener. When starting, we will gain a shared understanding of what's brought you to therapy and agree on a direction. We will update goals as we go, to support you towards a balanced, fulfilled life of your choosing.
Hi, I'm Asher. I'm a psychologist with experience working in private sector, community health and hospitals. I am deeply committed to the idea that we can overcome negative patterns when our basic human needs are met: safety, connection and a sense that we're worthy. I've been described as warm, thoughtful and a good listener. When starting, we will gain a shared understanding of what's brought you to therapy and agree on a direction. We will update goals as we go, to support you towards a balanced, fulfilled life of your choosing.
0494 615 337 View 0494 615 337
Tracey - Your Inner Light
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L4
Elsternwick, VIC 3185
Hi! I'm a Holistic Counsellor, Sound Healing Practitioner and Nutrition, Health & Wellness Coach. I work with women and specialise in mind-body holistic wellbeing. My approach blends Psychology, Spirituality and Wellness with a social justice and systems lens. My gentle and relaxed approach assists you to understand the root cause of personal challenges through increasing awareness, compassion, connection and prioritising stress management & self-care.
Hi! I'm a Holistic Counsellor, Sound Healing Practitioner and Nutrition, Health & Wellness Coach. I work with women and specialise in mind-body holistic wellbeing. My approach blends Psychology, Spirituality and Wellness with a social justice and systems lens. My gentle and relaxed approach assists you to understand the root cause of personal challenges through increasing awareness, compassion, connection and prioritising stress management & self-care.
(03) 7003 2423 View (03) 7003 2423
Matthew Briglia
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Matthew sees clients presenting with a range of concerns, including, but not limited to depressive/anxiety disorders, grief and bereavement and trauma related disorders.
Matthew uses an evidence-based approach to therapy. Here, he draws primarily on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic principles. Further, Matthew has conducted research and contributed to a neuroscience publication on empathy and compassion, which he also utilises in practice.
Matthew sees clients presenting with a range of concerns, including, but not limited to depressive/anxiety disorders, grief and bereavement and trauma related disorders.
Matthew uses an evidence-based approach to therapy. Here, he draws primarily on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic principles. Further, Matthew has conducted research and contributed to a neuroscience publication on empathy and compassion, which he also utilises in practice.
(03) 7003 2586 View (03) 7003 2586
Litsa Pavlou
Counsellor, ACA-L2
3 Endorsed
Elsternwick, VIC 3185
She can support people dealing with conflict in relationships, anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, grief or mental health challenges caused by chronic illness (including carer support).
Litsa completed a Master of Counselling at Monash University and she uses only evidence-based therapies tailored to the needs of her clients. Methods used include CBT, ACT, Emotion-focused therapy and Narrative therapy. She uses the Gottman Method in couples therapy providing couples with structured and effective interventions to improve their relationships.
She can support people dealing with conflict in relationships, anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, grief or mental health challenges caused by chronic illness (including carer support).
Litsa completed a Master of Counselling at Monash University and she uses only evidence-based therapies tailored to the needs of her clients. Methods used include CBT, ACT, Emotion-focused therapy and Narrative therapy. She uses the Gottman Method in couples therapy providing couples with structured and effective interventions to improve their relationships.
0466 400 232 View 0466 400 232
Nicol Thomas
Verified Verified
Elsternwick, VIC 3185
I practice Lacanian Psychoanalysis. Psychoanalysis is a talking work, or therapy, which aims to make an absolute difference to suffering. Lacan's psychoanalysis is based in the idea that the unconscious is structured like language. What you say reveals the unconscious processes that underlie any issues that are problematic for you, or recur. Psychoanalysis is the safe space where you can come to talk freely, without censorship and your analyst listens. There is no "correct" way to speak; the work of psychoanalysis is to find your own unique voice, especially of your unconscious.
I practice Lacanian Psychoanalysis. Psychoanalysis is a talking work, or therapy, which aims to make an absolute difference to suffering. Lacan's psychoanalysis is based in the idea that the unconscious is structured like language. What you say reveals the unconscious processes that underlie any issues that are problematic for you, or recur. Psychoanalysis is the safe space where you can come to talk freely, without censorship and your analyst listens. There is no "correct" way to speak; the work of psychoanalysis is to find your own unique voice, especially of your unconscious.
(03) 7003 2391 View (03) 7003 2391
Dr Tanya Osicka
Psychologist, PsyBA - Health Psych.
Elsternwick, VIC 3185
Availability at Elsternwick and via Telehealth. Seeing clients with depression, anxiety and stress. As a Clinical and Health Psychologist Tanya has a strong interest in the interplay between physical health and psychological wellbeing; and has experience working with a wide range of health conditions in private practice, private hospital, research, oncology, IVF, and aged care settings. Tanya aims to support individuals to live more fulfilling lives whilst managing their mood and symptoms. She is also a Fertility Counsellor, and has a postgraduate qualification in Gerontology.
Availability at Elsternwick and via Telehealth. Seeing clients with depression, anxiety and stress. As a Clinical and Health Psychologist Tanya has a strong interest in the interplay between physical health and psychological wellbeing; and has experience working with a wide range of health conditions in private practice, private hospital, research, oncology, IVF, and aged care settings. Tanya aims to support individuals to live more fulfilling lives whilst managing their mood and symptoms. She is also a Fertility Counsellor, and has a postgraduate qualification in Gerontology.
0494 320 801 View 0494 320 801
Sharona Nathan Counselling
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Elsternwick, VIC 3185
I work with adolescents, adults and older people seeking a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where they can explore what's shifting beneath the surface for them — perhaps the unsettled feeling of a life transition, the weight of anxiety, stress, grief, or the effects of trauma.
I have spent twenty-plus years learning to create one moment: when someone finally feels safe enough to say the worry, conflict, or story they've never spoken aloud. A former researcher, teacher, and mentor, I now counsel through a person-centred lens — not handing out answers, but helping you reach the understanding you already hold.
I work with adolescents, adults and older people seeking a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where they can explore what's shifting beneath the surface for them — perhaps the unsettled feeling of a life transition, the weight of anxiety, stress, grief, or the effects of trauma.
I have spent twenty-plus years learning to create one moment: when someone finally feels safe enough to say the worry, conflict, or story they've never spoken aloud. A former researcher, teacher, and mentor, I now counsel through a person-centred lens — not handing out answers, but helping you reach the understanding you already hold.
0424 382 761 View 0424 382 761
Kay-Sheree Spurling
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Elsternwick, VIC 3185
I am an experienced psychologist who enjoys supporting people from all walks of life. I love being a psychologist because I am a curious person who enjoys learning about people, while helping them get to know themselves, their strengths and challenges. I aim to make therapy safe, effective, and enjoyable. I offer in person sessions in South Caulfield or online sessions for people in rural Victoria. I see my clients as experts in their own life and approach sessions with kindness, compassion and humour. I like to balance out the seriousness of therapy with a laugh if I can.
I am an experienced psychologist who enjoys supporting people from all walks of life. I love being a psychologist because I am a curious person who enjoys learning about people, while helping them get to know themselves, their strengths and challenges. I aim to make therapy safe, effective, and enjoyable. I offer in person sessions in South Caulfield or online sessions for people in rural Victoria. I see my clients as experts in their own life and approach sessions with kindness, compassion and humour. I like to balance out the seriousness of therapy with a laugh if I can.
0478 367 515 View 0478 367 515
Peaceful Mind Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Including: disordered eating, body image, depression, anxiety, chronic health, trauma, grief & loss, autism & ADHD, LGBTQIA+ support, sleep, OCD, stress, couples work, and many more
Our psychologists are trained in a wide range of therapies, including: CBT, EDMR, Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, attachment therapy. We also provide online and face to face sessions, and take care to match you to the best person, considering your unique needs & preferences.
Including: disordered eating, body image, depression, anxiety, chronic health, trauma, grief & loss, autism & ADHD, LGBTQIA+ support, sleep, OCD, stress, couples work, and many more
Our psychologists are trained in a wide range of therapies, including: CBT, EDMR, Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, attachment therapy. We also provide online and face to face sessions, and take care to match you to the best person, considering your unique needs & preferences.
1300 766 870 View 1300 766 870
Rivkah Bendet
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Rivkah understands that mental health is a crucial aspect of a person’s quality of life and day-to-day functioning. She is therefore passionate about providing her clients with the necessary support and guidance to help them achieve and maintain psychological well-being. Through her Master’s in Educational and Developmental Psychology at Monash University, Rivkah gained skills in counselling, administering assessments, and delivering relaxation exercises for clients. She has worked with people of all ages and with various presentations including anxiety, anger management, ADHD, ASD and more.
Rivkah understands that mental health is a crucial aspect of a person’s quality of life and day-to-day functioning. She is therefore passionate about providing her clients with the necessary support and guidance to help them achieve and maintain psychological well-being. Through her Master’s in Educational and Developmental Psychology at Monash University, Rivkah gained skills in counselling, administering assessments, and delivering relaxation exercises for clients. She has worked with people of all ages and with various presentations including anxiety, anger management, ADHD, ASD and more.
(03) 9081 4270 View (03) 9081 4270
Kyla Edinburg
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
If you're carrying something that feels too complicated, too shameful, or too long-standing to bring to the people in your life, you may be ready for a space where none of that has to be simplified. I'm a clinical psychologist with over 15 years of experience, trained in South Africa and now practicing in Australia since 2020. That background has given me genuine exposure to a wide range of people, cultures, and presentations and a deep respect for how differently life's difficulties can show up depending on who you are and where you've come from.
If you're carrying something that feels too complicated, too shameful, or too long-standing to bring to the people in your life, you may be ready for a space where none of that has to be simplified. I'm a clinical psychologist with over 15 years of experience, trained in South Africa and now practicing in Australia since 2020. That background has given me genuine exposure to a wide range of people, cultures, and presentations and a deep respect for how differently life's difficulties can show up depending on who you are and where you've come from.
(02) 9100 0409 View (02) 9100 0409
Julian Andrew Thompson
Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I feel passionate about helping people make meaningful, sustainable, and healthy changes in their lives. I aim to work respectfully and collaboratively with people so that clients build their own independence and develop ways to manage life stressors more effectively, in addition to their own thoughts, feelings and behaviours. A comfortable, empathetic and supportive therapeutic relationship is also very important in my approach, and research shows that this is essential in best outcomes for clients. I generally work on a wide range of mental health and life issues and the approaches I work with are all evidence-based interventions.
I feel passionate about helping people make meaningful, sustainable, and healthy changes in their lives. I aim to work respectfully and collaboratively with people so that clients build their own independence and develop ways to manage life stressors more effectively, in addition to their own thoughts, feelings and behaviours. A comfortable, empathetic and supportive therapeutic relationship is also very important in my approach, and research shows that this is essential in best outcomes for clients. I generally work on a wide range of mental health and life issues and the approaches I work with are all evidence-based interventions.
(03) 7003 2333 View (03) 7003 2333
Jeannine Mills
Psychologist, Assoc MAPS
Serves Area
With over 20 years’ experience, I see people who are struggling with anxiety (overthinking, catastrophising, perfectionism, generalised anxiety, panic, etc.) and/or experiencing relationship difficulties (dating, long-term partners, friendships, family or colleagues), and who are ready to learn more about themselves, understand the dynamics at play and make meaningful changes in their lives. Together, we’ll explore the past to understand how your experiences and relationships have shaped your belief systems, focus on the present to identify challenges, patterns and coping mechanisms, and develop healthier ways to move forward.
With over 20 years’ experience, I see people who are struggling with anxiety (overthinking, catastrophising, perfectionism, generalised anxiety, panic, etc.) and/or experiencing relationship difficulties (dating, long-term partners, friendships, family or colleagues), and who are ready to learn more about themselves, understand the dynamics at play and make meaningful changes in their lives. Together, we’ll explore the past to understand how your experiences and relationships have shaped your belief systems, focus on the present to identify challenges, patterns and coping mechanisms, and develop healthier ways to move forward.
(02) 4810 0625 View (02) 4810 0625
Rachel Burchell
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I work with adults facing a range of challenges including adjusting to life changes, anxiety, career transitions, chronic illness, depression, grief, parenting struggles, relationship difficulties, self-esteem issues and substance use.
I offer a warm, empathetic therapeutic approach using evidence-based interventions tailored to each client’s needs. With experience in CBT, ACT, DBT, Schema Therapy and mindfulness techniques, I work collaboratively with clients to create lasting change. I am passionate about supporting clients as they heal, build resilience, and enhance their emotional and
I work with adults facing a range of challenges including adjusting to life changes, anxiety, career transitions, chronic illness, depression, grief, parenting struggles, relationship difficulties, self-esteem issues and substance use.
I offer a warm, empathetic therapeutic approach using evidence-based interventions tailored to each client’s needs. With experience in CBT, ACT, DBT, Schema Therapy and mindfulness techniques, I work collaboratively with clients to create lasting change. I am passionate about supporting clients as they heal, build resilience, and enhance their emotional and
0416 261 825 View 0416 261 825
Kate O'Brien - EMDR and Trauma Psychologist
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Healing doesn’t have to be hard - or done alone. At Embrace Trauma Therapy, I believe therapy is not about fixing you, but about getting to know yourself more fully and discovering new ways of coping. My approach honours your life experiences and the ways your mind and body have adapted to survive. I work collaboratively, with you at the centre of the process as the expert in your own experience. I aim to walk alongside you as a supportive guide, offering care, knowledge, and strategies for grounding and nervous system regulation along the way.
Healing doesn’t have to be hard - or done alone. At Embrace Trauma Therapy, I believe therapy is not about fixing you, but about getting to know yourself more fully and discovering new ways of coping. My approach honours your life experiences and the ways your mind and body have adapted to survive. I work collaboratively, with you at the centre of the process as the expert in your own experience. I aim to walk alongside you as a supportive guide, offering care, knowledge, and strategies for grounding and nervous system regulation along the way.
(03) 7003 2086 View (03) 7003 2086
Grief Therapists
How long does therapy take for grief?
There is no exact timeline for grief counseling. Some people may start to feel better after just a few sessions, while others may take months or longer to feel relief. Some specific approaches, including some types of CBT, may involve a set number of sessions, or therapy may be open-ended until the patient determines they are ready to wrap up. Just as there is no right or wrong way to grieve, there is no right or wrong way to seek therapy for grief.

When should you seek therapy for grief?
Many people mistakenly believe that their grief needs to be debilitating or all-encompassing to warrant therapy. This is not the case. While people who experience severe, prolonged grief—particularly those who are considering self-harm or engaging in unhealthy substance use—are especially likely to benefit from therapy, so too are people whose grief is less intense but still interfering with well-being or daily functioning. In practice, almost anyone struggling to process a loss could benefit from grief counseling.

Can grief be managed without therapy?
Oftentimes, yes. Grief is a near-universal part of being human, and many find that their grief, while profound, does not stop them from participating in day-to-day life and steadily eases over time without outside help. For others, however, the harsh pain of early grief persists for months or years or leaves them unable to function. This group is especially likely to benefit from seeing a therapist, who can guide them through their grief and help them reconnect with the world.

What happens if grief is left untreated?
Because grief does not in itself necessitate therapy, untreated grief will often resolve on its own. However, for some people—particularly those who would qualify for a diagnosis of prolonged grief disorder—untreated grief can be a source of seemingly endless pain or lead them to withdraw from the world. In such cases, treatment can be indispensable, as it can help an individual adapt to the loss and start living again.