Domestic Abuse Psychologists and Therapists in Elsternwick, VIC

Izumi Yamaguchi
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Elsternwick, VIC 3185
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 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
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
Arcadia Counselling Studio
Counsellor, PACFA
Elsternwick, VIC 3185
At times in life, we all experience moments where we seek greater understanding, balance, and support. You may be looking for a space to reflect, reconnect with yourself, navigate change, strengthen relationships, or create a greater sense of wellbeing. I offer a compassionate and supportive environment where your experiences are valued and your strengths are recognised. Together, we can explore what matters most to you, develop new perspectives, and support you in moving forward with greater confidence, clarity, and resilience.
At times in life, we all experience moments where we seek greater understanding, balance, and support. You may be looking for a space to reflect, reconnect with yourself, navigate change, strengthen relationships, or create a greater sense of wellbeing. I offer a compassionate and supportive environment where your experiences are valued and your strengths are recognised. Together, we can explore what matters most to you, develop new perspectives, and support you in moving forward with greater confidence, clarity, and resilience.
0405 712 082 View 0405 712 082
Sandra Ifrah
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Sandra Ifrah is a registered psychologist with extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing a range of mental health concerns. She adopts a family-focused approach, providing clients with a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment, while actively involving the family unit in the journey toward positive change. Sandra also works closely with separated families, offering therapeutic support to navigate complex dynamics, and provides professional reports for court-related purposes to assist in family law matters.
Sandra Ifrah is a registered psychologist with extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing a range of mental health concerns. She adopts a family-focused approach, providing clients with a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment, while actively involving the family unit in the journey toward positive change. Sandra also works closely with separated families, offering therapeutic support to navigate complex dynamics, and provides professional reports for court-related purposes to assist in family law matters.
(03) 6144 6011 View (03) 6144 6011
Kind Connections Counselling
Counsellor, PACFA
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Clinical Counsellor, I can also work directly with a victim-survivor of FV (in person or via Telehealth), when consent cannot be obtained for a child to receive therapy.
As a Registered Play Therapist & Supervisor (APTA) & PACFA Clinical Counsellor, Kind Connections supports children aged 3 - 10 years with a range of neurodevelopmental challenges & difficulties. With a passion for supporting adoptive, foster & kinship familes, my approach combines extensive experience as a trauma counsellor, Synergetic Play Therapy & EMDR, in a 'playful' way to support the child's healing process. As a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor, I offer Supervision to Play Therapists via Telehealth, especially those working toward their registration.
Clinical Counsellor, I can also work directly with a victim-survivor of FV (in person or via Telehealth), when consent cannot be obtained for a child to receive therapy.
As a Registered Play Therapist & Supervisor (APTA) & PACFA Clinical Counsellor, Kind Connections supports children aged 3 - 10 years with a range of neurodevelopmental challenges & difficulties. With a passion for supporting adoptive, foster & kinship familes, my approach combines extensive experience as a trauma counsellor, Synergetic Play Therapy & EMDR, in a 'playful' way to support the child's healing process. As a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor, I offer Supervision to Play Therapists via Telehealth, especially those working toward their registration.
(03) 7003 2207 View (03) 7003 2207
Amy Robins
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
As a Psychologist, I believe that building strong positive therapeutic relationships with clients is essential in helping individuals overcome challenges and reach personal and professional goals in order to thrive. I understand that making the decision to seek Psychological support can be challenging for many, I therefore endeavour to make clients feel validated, heard, understood and hopeful.
As a Psychologist, I believe that building strong positive therapeutic relationships with clients is essential in helping individuals overcome challenges and reach personal and professional goals in order to thrive. I understand that making the decision to seek Psychological support can be challenging for many, I therefore endeavour to make clients feel validated, heard, understood and hopeful.
0434 283 545 x614 View 0434 283 545 x614
Christina Kioulafas
Counsellor, PACFA
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling stuck? Do you feel like there are always challenges that stop you from a balanced life? Or maybe you are struggling with the same patterns and trauma that just won't go away? Modern life can be so complicated, there is so much happening in the world it can be hard to find our own place in it. People are struggling in this global climate. Counselling can help you to connect to yourself. So often we think about connection to others, but how can we do that when we feel a sense of unrest and disconnection to our true self?
Are you feeling stuck? Do you feel like there are always challenges that stop you from a balanced life? Or maybe you are struggling with the same patterns and trauma that just won't go away? Modern life can be so complicated, there is so much happening in the world it can be hard to find our own place in it. People are struggling in this global climate. Counselling can help you to connect to yourself. So often we think about connection to others, but how can we do that when we feel a sense of unrest and disconnection to our true self?
(03) 7003 2090 View (03) 7003 2090
Melissa Jane Moss
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Finding a therapist who can deeply attune to you and creatively integrate approaches that truly align with your needs can be really hard. It often takes energy from every part of your life- especially when you’re already running on empty. I want to reassure you that I understand, both professionally and personally, just how crucial this stage is. That’s why I’ve made it a priority to ensure this part of the process feels as welcoming and informative as possible. ​
Finding a therapist who can deeply attune to you and creatively integrate approaches that truly align with your needs can be really hard. It often takes energy from every part of your life- especially when you’re already running on empty. I want to reassure you that I understand, both professionally and personally, just how crucial this stage is. That’s why I’ve made it a priority to ensure this part of the process feels as welcoming and informative as possible. ​
(03) 7003 2037 View (03) 7003 2037

More Therapists Nearby

SoulShine Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Mount Waverley, VIC 3149
I support individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, complex trauma, relationship changes, family violence, stress, parenting challenges, and life transitions.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming, and it can be difficult to carry everything on your own. Having a space where you feel heard and understood can make a meaningful difference. I’m Sri, an ACA Level 2 registered counsellor and founder of SoulShine Counselling. I offer a supportive space to explore what you are going through at a pace that feels right for you. My approach is trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming, and grounded in respect, empathy, and collaboration. I provide counselling primarily in English, and can also offer sessions in Tamil, Kannada, and Hindi. Please reach out if you would like to explore counselling.
I support individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, complex trauma, relationship changes, family violence, stress, parenting challenges, and life transitions.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming, and it can be difficult to carry everything on your own. Having a space where you feel heard and understood can make a meaningful difference. I’m Sri, an ACA Level 2 registered counsellor and founder of SoulShine Counselling. I offer a supportive space to explore what you are going through at a pace that feels right for you. My approach is trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming, and grounded in respect, empathy, and collaboration. I provide counselling primarily in English, and can also offer sessions in Tamil, Kannada, and Hindi. Please reach out if you would like to explore counselling.
(03) 8771 4425 View (03) 8771 4425
Kat O'Mara
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Murrumbeena, VIC 3163
I work with adults affected by trauma and complex trauma, harmful relationships, domestic and emotional abuse, childhood trauma and emotional neglect, family estrangement, and attachment difficulties.
People often come to therapy knowing something is affecting them, without necessarily having a clear name for it. You may understand what happened intellectually, yet still find yourself reacting strongly in relationships, feeling constantly on edge, shutting down or doubting yourself.
I work with adults affected by trauma and complex trauma, harmful relationships, domestic and emotional abuse, childhood trauma and emotional neglect, family estrangement, and attachment difficulties.
People often come to therapy knowing something is affecting them, without necessarily having a clear name for it. You may understand what happened intellectually, yet still find yourself reacting strongly in relationships, feeling constantly on edge, shutting down or doubting yourself.
(03) 7500 5605 View (03) 7500 5605
Dr Rashika Perera Gomez
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Bayswater, VIC 3153
Focus areas include stress, bullying, third culture issues, domestic abuse, separation, parenting, postpartum, and life transitions.
I’m Dr Rashika Perera Gomez, Clinical Psychologist and founder of Open Mind Psych. I hold a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a PhD from the University of Melbourne, and have been in private practice since 2010. With over 15 years’ experience and a research background, I offer compassionate, evidence-based therapy for individuals and couples. I’ve worked at the University of Melbourne, Royal Children’s Hospital, Monash Medical Centre, and Foundation House. Sessions are available in Bayswater, Croydon (VIC), or via telehealth. Medicare, TAC, WorkCover, and Private clients accepted.
Focus areas include stress, bullying, third culture issues, domestic abuse, separation, parenting, postpartum, and life transitions.
I’m Dr Rashika Perera Gomez, Clinical Psychologist and founder of Open Mind Psych. I hold a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a PhD from the University of Melbourne, and have been in private practice since 2010. With over 15 years’ experience and a research background, I offer compassionate, evidence-based therapy for individuals and couples. I’ve worked at the University of Melbourne, Royal Children’s Hospital, Monash Medical Centre, and Foundation House. Sessions are available in Bayswater, Croydon (VIC), or via telehealth. Medicare, TAC, WorkCover, and Private clients accepted.
(03) 8413 7375 View (03) 8413 7375
Patricia Lewis
Psychotherapist, PsychD, ACA-L4
Online Only
Are you broken-hearted? Find hope and healing as you learn to love yourself again. Has trauma visited your life? Reclaim your life from the effects of hurt and pain and rediscover your hopes and dreams for a hope-filled future.
Are you broken-hearted? Find hope and healing as you learn to love yourself again. Has trauma visited your life? Reclaim your life from the effects of hurt and pain and rediscover your hopes and dreams for a hope-filled future.
(02) 9100 0165 View (02) 9100 0165
Fiona Cheung
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Vermont, VIC 3133
No matter your age or where you are in life, there are times when things can feel overwhelming or uncertain. I offer both in-person and online counselling to support you through these challenges In our time together, I aim to create a warm, safe, and non-judgmental space where you can speak openly and explore what’s been going on for you at your own pace. Whether you are dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, or family challenges, I am here to walk alongside you with care and empathy.
No matter your age or where you are in life, there are times when things can feel overwhelming or uncertain. I offer both in-person and online counselling to support you through these challenges In our time together, I aim to create a warm, safe, and non-judgmental space where you can speak openly and explore what’s been going on for you at your own pace. Whether you are dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, or family challenges, I am here to walk alongside you with care and empathy.
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Emma Baxter
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
South Melbourne, VIC 3205
• Understanding of emotional and physical abuse with coercive control • Explicit support for low or no contact decisions • Client paced, trauma informed care
I work with adults whose lives have been shaped by abusive family systems or controlling relationships. Many of the people I support grew up in environments where their needs were ignored, minimised, or punished, or they have found themselves in relationships marked by emotional harm, manipulation, or coercive control. My approach to counselling is trauma informed, compassionate, and grounded in respect for your autonomy. I believe healing comes from being supported to understand what has happened. Over time, these experiences can deeply impact self trust, boundaries, and the ability to feel safe in relationships
• Understanding of emotional and physical abuse with coercive control • Explicit support for low or no contact decisions • Client paced, trauma informed care
I work with adults whose lives have been shaped by abusive family systems or controlling relationships. Many of the people I support grew up in environments where their needs were ignored, minimised, or punished, or they have found themselves in relationships marked by emotional harm, manipulation, or coercive control. My approach to counselling is trauma informed, compassionate, and grounded in respect for your autonomy. I believe healing comes from being supported to understand what has happened. Over time, these experiences can deeply impact self trust, boundaries, and the ability to feel safe in relationships
0428 258 701 x61 View 0428 258 701 x61
Enrei Counselling
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, trauma, grief or identity struggles? You don’t have to face it alone. I’m Audrey, the counsellor behind Enrei Counselling, providing trauma-informed, culturally sensitive support to adults across Australia. Together, we’ll create a safe, compassionate space to gently explore your emotions and attachment experiences. Through deepening emotional awareness, we’ll heal relational wounds, strengthen your connections, and build emotional resilience. You can expect greater emotional insight, healing from past hurts, practical tools for managing anxiety and grief, and support that honours your identity.
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, trauma, grief or identity struggles? You don’t have to face it alone. I’m Audrey, the counsellor behind Enrei Counselling, providing trauma-informed, culturally sensitive support to adults across Australia. Together, we’ll create a safe, compassionate space to gently explore your emotions and attachment experiences. Through deepening emotional awareness, we’ll heal relational wounds, strengthen your connections, and build emotional resilience. You can expect greater emotional insight, healing from past hurts, practical tools for managing anxiety and grief, and support that honours your identity.
(02) 5133 6270 View (02) 5133 6270
Space Wellness (NSW) - Stef Morgan
Counsellor, ACA-L1
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Do you feel somewhat stuck? Perhaps overwhelm, physical pain or yearning for something different? Maybe you'd simply like to do better? Why not consider a coupling of counselling, clinical hypnotherapy and strategic psychotherapy? Unaware, you may be running outdated patterns which are at odds with the YOU of today, making it difficult to navigate and effect change. I use permissive Ericksonian hypnotherapy (particularly the Gordian Pillars) to uncover well-worn patterns of stuckness, then gently infuse the subconscious with alternate options. Safe, effective, gentle and life-changing.
Do you feel somewhat stuck? Perhaps overwhelm, physical pain or yearning for something different? Maybe you'd simply like to do better? Why not consider a coupling of counselling, clinical hypnotherapy and strategic psychotherapy? Unaware, you may be running outdated patterns which are at odds with the YOU of today, making it difficult to navigate and effect change. I use permissive Ericksonian hypnotherapy (particularly the Gordian Pillars) to uncover well-worn patterns of stuckness, then gently infuse the subconscious with alternate options. Safe, effective, gentle and life-changing.
(02) 5566 2525 View (02) 5566 2525
Trudy Cahill
Counsellor, ACA-L1
2 Endorsed
Hampton Park, VIC 3976
I'm here to help you heal from trauma or abuse, support child development and parenting, strengthen relationships, guide ASD parenting, and walk with you through grief, bereavement or domestic violence recovery.
I help people experiencing emotional distress, trauma or grief, or striving to create a nurturing home amid complex family dynamics. You may feel overwhelmed, uncertain and longing for relief. You need to reduce distress, improve communication, build confidence, resilience and stronger relationships. You want practical strategies, gentle insights and compassionate guidance that honours your experience and empowers you to find balance, hope and meaning. We work at your pace. You may also be supporting loved ones with autism or ADHD; together we tailor routines and coping tools to reclaim wellbeing and connection.
I'm here to help you heal from trauma or abuse, support child development and parenting, strengthen relationships, guide ASD parenting, and walk with you through grief, bereavement or domestic violence recovery.
I help people experiencing emotional distress, trauma or grief, or striving to create a nurturing home amid complex family dynamics. You may feel overwhelmed, uncertain and longing for relief. You need to reduce distress, improve communication, build confidence, resilience and stronger relationships. You want practical strategies, gentle insights and compassionate guidance that honours your experience and empowers you to find balance, hope and meaning. We work at your pace. You may also be supporting loved ones with autism or ADHD; together we tailor routines and coping tools to reclaim wellbeing and connection.
(03) 8771 5552 View (03) 8771 5552
Ofra Ronen
Counsellor
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You may look like you're holding it together. Inside, it's a different story. My clients carry a low hum of tension that never quite switches off. Or they brace for the moment someone finally gets tired of them, never fully letting their guard down. Or they live with a quieter difficulty: a persistent feeling something is fundamentally wrong with them that others can see and they cannot fix. Many have tried other approaches. Too distant, too clinical, too focused on symptoms without touching what is underneath. You don't need the right words. You need to arrive willing to look.
You may look like you're holding it together. Inside, it's a different story. My clients carry a low hum of tension that never quite switches off. Or they brace for the moment someone finally gets tired of them, never fully letting their guard down. Or they live with a quieter difficulty: a persistent feeling something is fundamentally wrong with them that others can see and they cannot fix. Many have tried other approaches. Too distant, too clinical, too focused on symptoms without touching what is underneath. You don't need the right words. You need to arrive willing to look.
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Sofy Zlatkin Zahavi
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Cheltenham, VIC 3192
Every family has a story, and sometimes it reaches a turning point. Whether you come as an individual, a couple, or a family, therapy can be a space to slow down, talk things through, and make sense of what’s happening beneath the surface. I work with families, couples, children, and adolescents navigating parenting challenges, communication difficulties, separation, and emotional overwhelm. Family therapy may involve individual sessions, parent or couple work, or the whole family. My approach integrates family therapy with child-inclusive mediation, always keeping children’s emotional safety and wellbeing in mind.
Every family has a story, and sometimes it reaches a turning point. Whether you come as an individual, a couple, or a family, therapy can be a space to slow down, talk things through, and make sense of what’s happening beneath the surface. I work with families, couples, children, and adolescents navigating parenting challenges, communication difficulties, separation, and emotional overwhelm. Family therapy may involve individual sessions, parent or couple work, or the whole family. My approach integrates family therapy with child-inclusive mediation, always keeping children’s emotional safety and wellbeing in mind.
(03) 8771 5797 View (03) 8771 5797
Parenting & Beyond - Vered Harel
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Online Only
Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck, even though you seem to be coping on the outside? Perhaps you're overthinking, struggling in a relationship, adjusting to a major life change, or simply feeling unlike yourself. You don't have to work through it alone. I offer warm, practical psychotherapy for adults and parents, helping you understand what's happening beneath the surface, break unhelpful patterns, and feel more grounded and confident. Together, we'll create meaningful change at a pace that feels right for you.
Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck, even though you seem to be coping on the outside? Perhaps you're overthinking, struggling in a relationship, adjusting to a major life change, or simply feeling unlike yourself. You don't have to work through it alone. I offer warm, practical psychotherapy for adults and parents, helping you understand what's happening beneath the surface, break unhelpful patterns, and feel more grounded and confident. Together, we'll create meaningful change at a pace that feels right for you.
(03) 8771 5628 View (03) 8771 5628
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.