Psychoanalytic Psychologists and Therapists in Elsternwick, VIC

Photo of Nicol Thomas, PhD
Nicol Thomas
Verified Verified
Elsternwick, VIC 3185
I have 15 years of clinical experience and I also offer psychoanalytic supervision.
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 have 15 years of clinical experience and I also offer psychoanalytic supervision.
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
Photo of Christina Kioulafas, Counsellor, PACFA
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
Photo of Gabrielle Volovsky, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Gabrielle Volovsky
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Online Only
I’m a PACFA-registered counsellor, and founder of Becoming On Point. I specialise in trauma-informed psychotherapy, and support adults navigating anxiety, low mood, burnout, relationship strain, self-worth, AOD challenges, trauma-related patterns, grief, stress and life transitions. Some clients come because they feel stuck or overwhelmed; others appear high-functioning but feel stretched underneath. My approach is warm, practical and collaborative, helping clients better understand their patterns, regulate emotions and move toward sustainable change.
I’m a PACFA-registered counsellor, and founder of Becoming On Point. I specialise in trauma-informed psychotherapy, and support adults navigating anxiety, low mood, burnout, relationship strain, self-worth, AOD challenges, trauma-related patterns, grief, stress and life transitions. Some clients come because they feel stuck or overwhelmed; others appear high-functioning but feel stretched underneath. My approach is warm, practical and collaborative, helping clients better understand their patterns, regulate emotions and move toward sustainable change.
View
Photo of Dr Shikha Gray, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Shikha Gray
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I work with adults & couples dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD & complex trauma, relationship difficulties, OCD and other emotional concerns. I approach therapy with a deep curiosity about you: how you see things like noone else. Depending on what brings you to therapy, we may explore how pivotal moments in life have shaped you, your beliefs, and your relationships, or we may look at practical ways you could bring about the changes you hope for. My aim is to provide a supportive space that helps you understand things more clearly, accept yourself more fully, and feel more capable of meeting life’s challenges.
I work with adults & couples dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD & complex trauma, relationship difficulties, OCD and other emotional concerns. I approach therapy with a deep curiosity about you: how you see things like noone else. Depending on what brings you to therapy, we may explore how pivotal moments in life have shaped you, your beliefs, and your relationships, or we may look at practical ways you could bring about the changes you hope for. My aim is to provide a supportive space that helps you understand things more clearly, accept yourself more fully, and feel more capable of meeting life’s challenges.
(03) 7003 2197 View (03) 7003 2197
Photo of Ilana Laps, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Ilana Laps
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
I am an experienced psychotherapist, counsellor and educator, with additional niche interests in non-duality and working therapeutically with dreams. 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.
I am an experienced psychotherapist, counsellor and educator, with additional niche interests in non-duality and working therapeutically with dreams. 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.
(03) 7003 2636 View (03) 7003 2636
Photo of Noah Noam Mankowitz - ADHD Melbourne, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
ADHD Melbourne
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
ADHD Melbourne is a practice dedicated to supporting adults, adolescents, and children navigating ADHD, ASD and related challenges. We understand that ADHD is not simply about attention or organisation, it affects emotions, relationships, work, study, self-esteem, and daily life in deeply personal ways. Our approach is strengths-based, neuroaffirming, and evidence-informed. We recognise that every ADHD brain is different, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. ADHD Melbourne conducted formal assessment for both ADHD and ASD for ages 6 and above.
ADHD Melbourne is a practice dedicated to supporting adults, adolescents, and children navigating ADHD, ASD and related challenges. We understand that ADHD is not simply about attention or organisation, it affects emotions, relationships, work, study, self-esteem, and daily life in deeply personal ways. Our approach is strengths-based, neuroaffirming, and evidence-informed. We recognise that every ADHD brain is different, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. ADHD Melbourne conducted formal assessment for both ADHD and ASD for ages 6 and above.
(03) 7003 2140 View (03) 7003 2140
Photo of Lucianne Grixti, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Lucianne Grixti
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I offer psychoanalytic psychotherapy and psychoanalysis.
I work with people who may be feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain, and who are seeking more than a quick fix. Often, the people that I work with are thoughtful, sensitive, and curious about themselves and their relationships, and have a sense that there is something deeper to be understood about themselves. They may be struggling with recurring patterns, emotional pain, or difficulties that feel hard to explain. In our work together, I offer a steady, reflective space to explore these experiences, supporting greater self-understanding and the possibility of meaningful, lasting change.
I offer psychoanalytic psychotherapy and psychoanalysis.
I work with people who may be feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain, and who are seeking more than a quick fix. Often, the people that I work with are thoughtful, sensitive, and curious about themselves and their relationships, and have a sense that there is something deeper to be understood about themselves. They may be struggling with recurring patterns, emotional pain, or difficulties that feel hard to explain. In our work together, I offer a steady, reflective space to explore these experiences, supporting greater self-understanding and the possibility of meaningful, lasting change.
0434 142 295 View 0434 142 295
Photo of Mary Ann Oakley - Brighton East Counselling, Psychotherapist, ACA-L1
Brighton East Counselling
Psychotherapist, ACA-L1
Serves Area
Mary Ann Oakley is the founder of Brighton East Counselling and an experienced psychotherapist. She offers a warm, non-judgemental, and empathetic approach, supporting adults across the lifespan with a wide range of emotional and psychological concerns. Mary Ann has extensive experience working with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, adjustment challenges, life transitions, workplace issues, sleep difficulties, grief, addictions, and the management of complex or overwhelming emotions. She draws on evidence-based therapies and tailors treatment to each client’s individual needs.
Mary Ann Oakley is the founder of Brighton East Counselling and an experienced psychotherapist. She offers a warm, non-judgemental, and empathetic approach, supporting adults across the lifespan with a wide range of emotional and psychological concerns. Mary Ann has extensive experience working with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, adjustment challenges, life transitions, workplace issues, sleep difficulties, grief, addictions, and the management of complex or overwhelming emotions. She draws on evidence-based therapies and tailors treatment to each client’s individual needs.
(03) 7003 2042 View (03) 7003 2042
Photo of Kate Reddin, Psychotherapist, MC, ACA-L2
Kate Reddin
Psychotherapist, MC, ACA-L2
Serves Area
My clients are women at all kinds of moments - running on empty after too long holding everything together, stuck in patterns that keep showing up no matter how hard they try to shift them, navigating a life transition that's knocked them sideways, or sitting with a quiet but persistent sense that the life they're living doesn't quite fit anymore. Some arrive in crisis. Others arrive with no single defining reason, just a readiness to understand themselves more clearly and do something about it. Both are welcome. Both are the right reason to be here.
My clients are women at all kinds of moments - running on empty after too long holding everything together, stuck in patterns that keep showing up no matter how hard they try to shift them, navigating a life transition that's knocked them sideways, or sitting with a quiet but persistent sense that the life they're living doesn't quite fit anymore. Some arrive in crisis. Others arrive with no single defining reason, just a readiness to understand themselves more clearly and do something about it. Both are welcome. Both are the right reason to be here.
(03) 8771 4632 View (03) 8771 4632
Photo of Nicole Rowan, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Nicole Rowan
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years experience across public and private mental health settings, with extensive experience working with children and adolescents. I have a particular interest in attachment and impacts across the lifespan, perinatal psychology and the parent-infant relationship. I further enjoy working with attachment-based concerns, supporting clients through periods of major life transitions, trauma and significant life events, along with relationship and interpersonal issues.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years experience across public and private mental health settings, with extensive experience working with children and adolescents. I have a particular interest in attachment and impacts across the lifespan, perinatal psychology and the parent-infant relationship. I further enjoy working with attachment-based concerns, supporting clients through periods of major life transitions, trauma and significant life events, along with relationship and interpersonal issues.
(03) 9125 0857 View (03) 9125 0857

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Colleen Denise Cahill - Mindfulness Matters, Social Worker, AMHSW
Mindfulness Matters
Social Worker, AMHSW
Kallista, VIC 3791
Feeling out of sorts? Relationships not working? People not understanding? Feeling alone? Wanting to change life, change relationships, change patterns of behaviour? I can assist you in clarifying your thought patterns and develop new strategies to enjoy positive and emotional wellbeing in your daily life including your relationship with others. Managing issues relating to Child abuse? Family violence? Sexual assault? Experiencing Post Traumatic Stress disorder that leaves you feeling confused, dissociated, angry, highly anxious or fearful? Together we can work through these issues and regain a sense of emotional wellbeing
Feeling out of sorts? Relationships not working? People not understanding? Feeling alone? Wanting to change life, change relationships, change patterns of behaviour? I can assist you in clarifying your thought patterns and develop new strategies to enjoy positive and emotional wellbeing in your daily life including your relationship with others. Managing issues relating to Child abuse? Family violence? Sexual assault? Experiencing Post Traumatic Stress disorder that leaves you feeling confused, dissociated, angry, highly anxious or fearful? Together we can work through these issues and regain a sense of emotional wellbeing
(03) 8592 9256 View (03) 8592 9256
Photo of Andrea Middling, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Andrea Middling
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Online Only
NOW accepting NEW clients & HAVE availability! “I offer trauma informed therapy in a safe and non- judgemental space, so you can work through whatever difficulties you are experiencing, live more mindfully and embrace your inner strengths & resources.” My style is warm and empathic, though I can challenge respectfully when needed. I regard the therapeutic relationship as team work and appreciate that it takes significant courage to reach for counselling.
NOW accepting NEW clients & HAVE availability! “I offer trauma informed therapy in a safe and non- judgemental space, so you can work through whatever difficulties you are experiencing, live more mindfully and embrace your inner strengths & resources.” My style is warm and empathic, though I can challenge respectfully when needed. I regard the therapeutic relationship as team work and appreciate that it takes significant courage to reach for counselling.
(07) 3214 3678 View (07) 3214 3678
Photo of Casey Anderson - Casey Anderson , Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Casey Anderson
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Parkville, VIC 3052
Casey Anderson takes a psychoanalytic approach to psychotherapy.
As an experienced therapist, Casey has worked in a range of diverse settings with children, adolescents, adults, and couples. Through this experience, Casey has developed a deep understanding of what it means to be human, forming her view that we are unique and complex beings with a desire for connection with self and others, even if this feels difficult.
Casey Anderson takes a psychoanalytic approach to psychotherapy.
As an experienced therapist, Casey has worked in a range of diverse settings with children, adolescents, adults, and couples. Through this experience, Casey has developed a deep understanding of what it means to be human, forming her view that we are unique and complex beings with a desire for connection with self and others, even if this feels difficult.
(03) 7003 2898 View (03) 7003 2898
Androula Chrysanthou
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Yarraville, VIC 3013
I have worked in the mental health field for over 25 years in a variety of settings including community mental health services and private practice. I work with age groups from adolescents to adults, covering many areas including anxiety and depression to suicidality and self-harm. I offer short-term counselling or longer-term psychotherapy.
I have worked in the mental health field for over 25 years in a variety of settings including community mental health services and private practice. I work with age groups from adolescents to adults, covering many areas including anxiety and depression to suicidality and self-harm. I offer short-term counselling or longer-term psychotherapy.
0402 558 091 View 0402 558 091
Photo of Duc Duy Nguyen - Josh Nguyen, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Josh Nguyen
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Parkville, VIC 3052
I am a clinical psychologist and board-approved supervisor in Parkville, Melbourne. I work primarily with couples, LGBTQIA+ adults, neurodivergent adults, and people from multicultural backgrounds. My approaches include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. My previous experience includes treating severe mental health conditions (chronic suicidality, bipolar, and psychosis) in adolescents and young adults in public hospitals. In addition to my clinical work, I hold teaching and research positions at the University of Melbourne and Monash University.
I am a clinical psychologist and board-approved supervisor in Parkville, Melbourne. I work primarily with couples, LGBTQIA+ adults, neurodivergent adults, and people from multicultural backgrounds. My approaches include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. My previous experience includes treating severe mental health conditions (chronic suicidality, bipolar, and psychosis) in adolescents and young adults in public hospitals. In addition to my clinical work, I hold teaching and research positions at the University of Melbourne and Monash University.
(03) 7003 2648 View (03) 7003 2648
Photo of Neil Maizels, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Neil Maizels
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Balwyn, VIC 3103
I am a member of the Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy Association of Australasia and offer psychoanalytic psychotherapy - from 1-3 times weekly, usually.
Help with understanding: Depression / Anxiety Relationship and intimacy issues Midlife and blocked creativity in life choices when at a crossroad. Eating and learning issues. Social and friendship issues. Sexuality issues. Work issues. Pregnancy and post-Natal issues. The focus is on underlying conflict or trauma that has remained stuck, but under the surface of one’s awareness.
I am a member of the Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy Association of Australasia and offer psychoanalytic psychotherapy - from 1-3 times weekly, usually.
Help with understanding: Depression / Anxiety Relationship and intimacy issues Midlife and blocked creativity in life choices when at a crossroad. Eating and learning issues. Social and friendship issues. Sexuality issues. Work issues. Pregnancy and post-Natal issues. The focus is on underlying conflict or trauma that has remained stuck, but under the surface of one’s awareness.
0431 487 887 View 0431 487 887
Photo of Christina Hereford - Felix & Sage Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Felix & Sage Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Ringwood, VIC 3134
Felix & Sage Psychology supports individuals, couples, and families navigating concerns such as anxiety, mood difficulties, trauma, eating disorders, and relationship challenges. Many clients come to us feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure what’s changed. We focus on understanding the full picture and thoughtfully matching each person with a clinician whose style and experience aligns with their needs. From there, we work collaboratively to build insight, develop practical strategies, and support steady, meaningful progress.
Felix & Sage Psychology supports individuals, couples, and families navigating concerns such as anxiety, mood difficulties, trauma, eating disorders, and relationship challenges. Many clients come to us feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure what’s changed. We focus on understanding the full picture and thoughtfully matching each person with a clinician whose style and experience aligns with their needs. From there, we work collaboratively to build insight, develop practical strategies, and support steady, meaningful progress.
(03) 8595 5009 View (03) 8595 5009
Photo of Barbara Gear - Harmony Online Couples & Relationships Counselling, Social Worker, AMHSW
Harmony Online Couples & Relationships Counselling
Social Worker, AMHSW
Online Only
Hello, I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with over 15 years of experience in providing therapeutic counselling to people experiencing various life challenges and mental health issues. I specialise in couples, family relationships and trauma counselling. My approach is person-centred, non-judgemental and empathetic, and each person is unique in their own journey through life. I work closely with my clients, providing support and guidance to help them gain a deeper understanding of themselves and achieve their life goals and dreams. You can book directly online through my website.
Hello, I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with over 15 years of experience in providing therapeutic counselling to people experiencing various life challenges and mental health issues. I specialise in couples, family relationships and trauma counselling. My approach is person-centred, non-judgemental and empathetic, and each person is unique in their own journey through life. I work closely with my clients, providing support and guidance to help them gain a deeper understanding of themselves and achieve their life goals and dreams. You can book directly online through my website.
(03) 4236 5013 View (03) 4236 5013
Photo of Chris Wallace, Psychologist, MAPS
Chris Wallace
Psychologist, MAPS
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VIC 3121
I primarily use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) as my foundational approach, integrating psychoanalytic concepts to deepen insight, and narrative therapy to reshape personal stories.
I am warm, conversational and collaborative. I’ll work with you to understand your story, your current challenges and what you’re seeking to change. I enjoy providing the space and tools for individuals who want to better their lives. We will work together and identify barriers, recurring patterns and limitations in the way of finding purpose and building a quality of life. The aim is to help you do more of what matters to take you towards living the life you want.
I primarily use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) as my foundational approach, integrating psychoanalytic concepts to deepen insight, and narrative therapy to reshape personal stories.
I am warm, conversational and collaborative. I’ll work with you to understand your story, your current challenges and what you’re seeking to change. I enjoy providing the space and tools for individuals who want to better their lives. We will work together and identify barriers, recurring patterns and limitations in the way of finding purpose and building a quality of life. The aim is to help you do more of what matters to take you towards living the life you want.
(03) 7003 2748 View (03) 7003 2748
Photo of Eva Birch, Psychotherapist, PhD, ACA-L1
Eva Birch
Psychotherapist, PhD, ACA-L1
Carlton, VIC 3053
I provide psychoanalytic treatment, psychotherapy, and counselling services.
My experience includes working within the NDIS in various roles and private practice. I have completed a P.h.D. in Arts and a Graduate Diploma in Counselling. My Ph.D. thesis focused on the intersections of psychoanalysis, philosophy and literature. I am also a published poet, and interested in the link between writing, art and psychoanalysis.
I provide psychoanalytic treatment, psychotherapy, and counselling services.
My experience includes working within the NDIS in various roles and private practice. I have completed a P.h.D. in Arts and a Graduate Diploma in Counselling. My Ph.D. thesis focused on the intersections of psychoanalysis, philosophy and literature. I am also a published poet, and interested in the link between writing, art and psychoanalysis.
0478 416 592 View 0478 416 592
Psychoanalytic Therapists
Does psychoanalytic therapy work?
Psychoanalytic therapy derives from the work of Sigmund Freud. In this type of therapy, discovering buried thoughts and emotions from the unconscious will help a person work through their difficulties and negative behaviours. Research shows that psychoanalytic therapy can be highly effective, with patients reporting improvement in mood, quality of life, and overall well-being.

How long are people typically in psychoanalytic therapy?
Traditional psychoanalysis is in-depth and is conducted in five sessions every week. Today, modern psychoanalytic therapy is less intense and normally incorporates as few as one or two sessions a week. In some cases, positive change can occur quickly. However, if the condition, difficulty, or behaviour is deep-seated, improvement may require many months or years of therapy.

Is psychoanalytic therapy suitable for young people?
Children and adolescents can benefit from this type of therapy. Many kids and teens are often unable to form and communicate their thoughts and emotions. Psychoanalytic therapy uses specific techniques such as dream analysis, symbolism, and free association or word association; all of which can be useful tools for less-communicative young people. Through this therapy, a patient will hopefully make connections between what they feel inside and how the world works outside.

Can psychoanalytic therapy be done online?
Modern-day psychoanalytic therapy is very different from traditional psychoanalysis. While an individual can sit face-to-face with the psychoanalyst for multiple sessions a week, they do not have to. Today, psychoanalytic therapy can be effectively conducted online or by phone. The key is that the individual confronts what is repressed and avoided, and this can be done whether in person or over online video.