Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Psychologists and Therapists in Essendon North, VIC

Bandai Choi
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Essendon North, VIC 3041
My clinical focus includes EMDR and ACT for complex trauma, alongside formalized, neuro-affirming diagnostic evaluations for Adult ADHD and Autism (ASD).
Are you feeling overwhelmed by complex trauma or navigating life as a neurodivergent adult? Many of my clients seek targeted support for emotional dysregulation, attachment struggles, or the weight of unmanaged trauma. They require a therapeutic space that is not only evidence-based but neuro-affirming, culturally responsive, and practical. They want clear steps and a clinician who explains the "why" behind every intervention. We help by prioritizing stabilization, moving at a pace that ensures psychological safety while building usable strategies for daily life.
My clinical focus includes EMDR and ACT for complex trauma, alongside formalized, neuro-affirming diagnostic evaluations for Adult ADHD and Autism (ASD).
Are you feeling overwhelmed by complex trauma or navigating life as a neurodivergent adult? Many of my clients seek targeted support for emotional dysregulation, attachment struggles, or the weight of unmanaged trauma. They require a therapeutic space that is not only evidence-based but neuro-affirming, culturally responsive, and practical. They want clear steps and a clinician who explains the "why" behind every intervention. We help by prioritizing stabilization, moving at a pace that ensures psychological safety while building usable strategies for daily life.
(03) 8771 4314 View (03) 8771 4314
Felicity Staedler
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Essendon North, VIC 3041
From this solid foundation, Felicity then uses strategies such as schema therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy.
Felicity has a particular interest in working with adults and adolescents with eating disorders and body image issues, mood disorders and anxiety disorders. Felicity aims to help her clients live meaningful and authentic lives by helping them connect with their personal values and free themselves from unhelpful patterns of thinking and behaviour.
From this solid foundation, Felicity then uses strategies such as schema therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy.
Felicity has a particular interest in working with adults and adolescents with eating disorders and body image issues, mood disorders and anxiety disorders. Felicity aims to help her clients live meaningful and authentic lives by helping them connect with their personal values and free themselves from unhelpful patterns of thinking and behaviour.
(03) 8104 9615 View (03) 8104 9615
Maria Andreadis
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Essendon North, VIC 3041
She uses a variety of evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Schema Therapy, EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
Mary is a psychologist experienced in treating several mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, personality disorders, and relationship difficulties. She has a particular interest in how early life experiences and trauma contribute to current patterns; relationship issues and supporting people in personal growth and meaning. Mary’s ethos is grounded in the understanding that our inner world is deeply connected to our everyday lives. By exploring this connection, we can take meaningful steps toward lasting change. She offers a warm, compassionate, and honest space to build insight and support meaningful change.
She uses a variety of evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Schema Therapy, EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
Mary is a psychologist experienced in treating several mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, personality disorders, and relationship difficulties. She has a particular interest in how early life experiences and trauma contribute to current patterns; relationship issues and supporting people in personal growth and meaning. Mary’s ethos is grounded in the understanding that our inner world is deeply connected to our everyday lives. By exploring this connection, we can take meaningful steps toward lasting change. She offers a warm, compassionate, and honest space to build insight and support meaningful change.
(03) 8338 4336 View (03) 8338 4336
Tyler Gitsham
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Essendon North, VIC 3041
I have a keen interest in working with individuals with body image and eating-related concerns, as well as general mental health challenges including men's health, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders, low mood and depression, adjustment, grief, trauma, neurodivergence, sexuality and gender, relationship difficulty, work stress, and many others. Having training in differing treatment modes means I can tailor an assessment and treatment approach that is appropriate to your presentation. I am welcoming new clients aged 12+.
I have a keen interest in working with individuals with body image and eating-related concerns, as well as general mental health challenges including men's health, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders, low mood and depression, adjustment, grief, trauma, neurodivergence, sexuality and gender, relationship difficulty, work stress, and many others. Having training in differing treatment modes means I can tailor an assessment and treatment approach that is appropriate to your presentation. I am welcoming new clients aged 12+.
(03) 8771 4561 View (03) 8771 4561
Jeniffer Muñoz
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Essendon North, VIC 3041
I draw on evidence-based therapies including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Schema Therapy, psychodynamic and trauma-informed approaches to help clients manage difficulties, build resilience, and develop a stronger connection with themselves.
I work with adults who may be experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, obsessive compulsive disorder, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, or feeling overwhelmed by life changes. Many clients come to therapy feeling stuck, disconnected from themselves, or unsure how to move forward. I provide a safe and supportive space where clients can explore their experiences, understand unhelpful patterns, and develop practical strategies to create meaningful and lasting change. I offer therapy in both English and Spanish and welcome clients from diverse cultural backgrounds.
I draw on evidence-based therapies including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Schema Therapy, psychodynamic and trauma-informed approaches to help clients manage difficulties, build resilience, and develop a stronger connection with themselves.
I work with adults who may be experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, obsessive compulsive disorder, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, or feeling overwhelmed by life changes. Many clients come to therapy feeling stuck, disconnected from themselves, or unsure how to move forward. I provide a safe and supportive space where clients can explore their experiences, understand unhelpful patterns, and develop practical strategies to create meaningful and lasting change. I offer therapy in both English and Spanish and welcome clients from diverse cultural backgrounds.
(03) 8771 5514 View (03) 8771 5514
Suzi Mitkovski
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Essendon North, VIC 3041
By integrating evidence-based practices such as ACT, CBT, & mindfulness, I tailor my methods to meet the unique needs of each client.
If you are struggling with anxiety, stress, burnout, depression, relationship problems, self-esteem issues, life transitions, or other challenges, working together to tackle these difficulties may help you achieve your goals and meet your needs. I provide a safe space where one can explore their thoughts, emotions and concerns. At the core of my mission is a belief in the inherent strength and potential for growth within each individual. I aim to facilitate positive change, promote self-discovery, and enhance overall well-being, empowering individuals to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and confidence.
By integrating evidence-based practices such as ACT, CBT, & mindfulness, I tailor my methods to meet the unique needs of each client.
If you are struggling with anxiety, stress, burnout, depression, relationship problems, self-esteem issues, life transitions, or other challenges, working together to tackle these difficulties may help you achieve your goals and meet your needs. I provide a safe space where one can explore their thoughts, emotions and concerns. At the core of my mission is a belief in the inherent strength and potential for growth within each individual. I aim to facilitate positive change, promote self-discovery, and enhance overall well-being, empowering individuals to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and confidence.
(03) 8657 0165 View (03) 8657 0165
Julie Paschke
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Essendon North, VIC 3041
My practice is grounded in Eastern philosophical traditions, integrating mindfulness, acceptance, and existential inquiry as core therapeutic principles.
Hi, I'm Julie, and if you're struggling at the moment and in need of support, please do not hesitate to make an enquiry via email (I will reply within 24 hours). Appointments available within 1-3 weeks. After hours and Telehealth appointments available. Adults 18+ only. I do not work with Workcover, TAC, DVA or NDIS. You can see me privately or via a Treatment Plan from your GP. Whether it's anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, addiction, trauma, self-esteem or grief, I would welcome the opportunity to build a safe, kind and supportive space with you to explore your experiences, feelings and challenges.
My practice is grounded in Eastern philosophical traditions, integrating mindfulness, acceptance, and existential inquiry as core therapeutic principles.
Hi, I'm Julie, and if you're struggling at the moment and in need of support, please do not hesitate to make an enquiry via email (I will reply within 24 hours). Appointments available within 1-3 weeks. After hours and Telehealth appointments available. Adults 18+ only. I do not work with Workcover, TAC, DVA or NDIS. You can see me privately or via a Treatment Plan from your GP. Whether it's anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, addiction, trauma, self-esteem or grief, I would welcome the opportunity to build a safe, kind and supportive space with you to explore your experiences, feelings and challenges.
View
Angela Simpson
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Health Psych.
Online Only
I adopt an acceptance-based approach in my practice.
Angela is a health psychologist who is passionate about providing high quality, evidence-based treatment. She supports clients who experience a range of issues including depression, anxiety, chronic pain, chronic health conditions such as fibromyalgia, and substance use issues. Additionally, Angela has an interest in women's health including issues relating to pregnancy and menopause.
I adopt an acceptance-based approach in my practice.
Angela is a health psychologist who is passionate about providing high quality, evidence-based treatment. She supports clients who experience a range of issues including depression, anxiety, chronic pain, chronic health conditions such as fibromyalgia, and substance use issues. Additionally, Angela has an interest in women's health including issues relating to pregnancy and menopause.
(03) 8338 4007 View (03) 8338 4007
Josephine Borg
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Essendon North, VIC 3041
Life can feel heavy at times. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, trauma, stress, or major life transitions, I offer a grounded, evidence‑based approach to help you regain clarity and confidence. As a psychologist and behaviour support practitioner, I support children, adolescents, and adults to develop practical skills, improve emotional wellbeing, and strengthen relationships — including your relationship with money and everyday stressors. I also provide NDIS psychology and behaviour support services for self‑managed and plan‑managed participants, with a focus on emotional safety, capacity building, and meaningful change.
Life can feel heavy at times. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, trauma, stress, or major life transitions, I offer a grounded, evidence‑based approach to help you regain clarity and confidence. As a psychologist and behaviour support practitioner, I support children, adolescents, and adults to develop practical skills, improve emotional wellbeing, and strengthen relationships — including your relationship with money and everyday stressors. I also provide NDIS psychology and behaviour support services for self‑managed and plan‑managed participants, with a focus on emotional safety, capacity building, and meaningful change.
(03) 8104 9494 View (03) 8104 9494
Isabella Amato - Aspire Wellness Group
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Essendon North, VIC 3041
Isabella is a registered Psychologist who brings a welcoming and empathetic approach to her practice. She is passionate about supporting children who are experiencing behavioural and social-emotional difficulties, anxiety and adjustment related difficulties, in addition to collaborating with their families. Isabella has experience working with neurodivergent children, inclusive of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism via a neuroaffirming, strength-based approach. Isabella has worked with children across different developmental stages in primary schools, private, community & hospital settings.
Isabella is a registered Psychologist who brings a welcoming and empathetic approach to her practice. She is passionate about supporting children who are experiencing behavioural and social-emotional difficulties, anxiety and adjustment related difficulties, in addition to collaborating with their families. Isabella has experience working with neurodivergent children, inclusive of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism via a neuroaffirming, strength-based approach. Isabella has worked with children across different developmental stages in primary schools, private, community & hospital settings.
(03) 9000 0518 View (03) 9000 0518
Jessica Cook
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Essendon North, VIC 3041
I draw on a range of evidence-based frameworks to guide my work, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-based approaches.
There are a lot of challenges that come with navigating life, and my aim is to support you through those. I’m a registered psychologist with experience working alongside individuals across the lifespan, and I approach every client with warmth, curiosity, and respect, working collaboratively to understand your unique experiences, strengths, and goals. My goal in working together is to create a safe and supportive space where you can feel seen, empowered, and understood.
I draw on a range of evidence-based frameworks to guide my work, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-based approaches.
There are a lot of challenges that come with navigating life, and my aim is to support you through those. I’m a registered psychologist with experience working alongside individuals across the lifespan, and I approach every client with warmth, curiosity, and respect, working collaboratively to understand your unique experiences, strengths, and goals. My goal in working together is to create a safe and supportive space where you can feel seen, empowered, and understood.
(03) 8771 5464 View (03) 8771 5464
Kayla Cutajar
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Essendon North, VIC 3041
Kayla is a Registered Psychologist and Director of Open Minds Studios. She has experience in working with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, and parenting issues. Kayla enjoys helping people understand themselves and their environments better and to feel more empowered in their lives. She finds joy in seeing clients feel more comfortable in themselves and their relationships. Clients who work with Kayla receive an integrated approach to therapeutic care tailored to their needs and interests.
Kayla is a Registered Psychologist and Director of Open Minds Studios. She has experience in working with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, and parenting issues. Kayla enjoys helping people understand themselves and their environments better and to feel more empowered in their lives. She finds joy in seeing clients feel more comfortable in themselves and their relationships. Clients who work with Kayla receive an integrated approach to therapeutic care tailored to their needs and interests.
(03) 8104 9965 View (03) 8104 9965
Rebecca Dyer
Social Worker, AMHSW
Essendon North, VIC 3041
You may be the person everyone relies on while quietly feeling overwhelmed, anxious, disconnected, or exhausted. I support women navigating the complexities of motherhood, parenting, perimenopause, changing relationships, identity shifts, and other life transitions that can lead to you experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, burnout and emotional overwhelm. I support you in identifying and overcoming the challenges of balancing life’s many demands. While I have a special interest in women’s wellbeing and life transitions, I also work with adults and men facing a wide range of personal, emotional, and relational challenges.
You may be the person everyone relies on while quietly feeling overwhelmed, anxious, disconnected, or exhausted. I support women navigating the complexities of motherhood, parenting, perimenopause, changing relationships, identity shifts, and other life transitions that can lead to you experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, burnout and emotional overwhelm. I support you in identifying and overcoming the challenges of balancing life’s many demands. While I have a special interest in women’s wellbeing and life transitions, I also work with adults and men facing a wide range of personal, emotional, and relational challenges.
(03) 8771 4944 View (03) 8771 4944
Marcellina Moussa
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Essendon North, VIC 3041
I’m a registered psychologist who aims to create a space that feels safe, authentic, and genuinely supportive. I believe therapy works best when you feel comfortable being yourself, so my focus is on building a trusting relationship where you can explore what’s going on for you openly and without judgement.
I’m a registered psychologist who aims to create a space that feels safe, authentic, and genuinely supportive. I believe therapy works best when you feel comfortable being yourself, so my focus is on building a trusting relationship where you can explore what’s going on for you openly and without judgement.
(03) 9007 2563 View (03) 9007 2563
Germaine Gergis
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Essendon North, VIC 3041
These include EMDR, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Exposure & Response Prevention, Trauma Focused CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy & Play Therapy.
Dr Germaine Gergis, is a board-endorsed Clinical Psychologist, Supervisor and Lecturer with many years' experience in delivering high quality assessments and treatment to infants, children, adolescents and adults, and their families. Germaine has worked across private and public sectors helping those who have presented with a diverse range of mental health issues and neurodevelopmental disorders. She has extensive experience in working with mood & anxiety disorders, OCD, trauma-related disorders and personality disorders. Speciality roles include infant mental health & autism spectrum disorders, including providing second opinions.
These include EMDR, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Exposure & Response Prevention, Trauma Focused CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy & Play Therapy.
Dr Germaine Gergis, is a board-endorsed Clinical Psychologist, Supervisor and Lecturer with many years' experience in delivering high quality assessments and treatment to infants, children, adolescents and adults, and their families. Germaine has worked across private and public sectors helping those who have presented with a diverse range of mental health issues and neurodevelopmental disorders. She has extensive experience in working with mood & anxiety disorders, OCD, trauma-related disorders and personality disorders. Speciality roles include infant mental health & autism spectrum disorders, including providing second opinions.
(03) 8338 4854 View (03) 8338 4854
The Wholeness Path
Social Worker, MA, AASW
2 Endorsed
Essendon North, VIC 3041
I incorporate a variety of evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Mindful Self-Compassion, Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), and Trauma-Informed Therapy, among others.
With a background in Psychology and Clinical Counselling, I believe in creating a space where you feel truly listened to, respected, and supported. Our work together is a collaborative process, helping you explore your challenges, gain insight, and nurture your well-being. By tailoring my approach to your unique needs, I encourage you to connect with your inner wisdom and embrace positive transformation. More than anything, I want you to leave feeling valued and optimistic about the path ahead.
I incorporate a variety of evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Mindful Self-Compassion, Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), and Trauma-Informed Therapy, among others.
With a background in Psychology and Clinical Counselling, I believe in creating a space where you feel truly listened to, respected, and supported. Our work together is a collaborative process, helping you explore your challenges, gain insight, and nurture your well-being. By tailoring my approach to your unique needs, I encourage you to connect with your inner wisdom and embrace positive transformation. More than anything, I want you to leave feeling valued and optimistic about the path ahead.
(03) 8771 4102 View (03) 8771 4102
Bradley James McKay
Counsellor, PACFA
Essendon North, VIC 3041
As a counsellor I have dealt with a multitude of presentations ranging from high risk, suicidal and self harm clients to anxiety, life coaching and depression. I aim to build an authentic therapeutic relationship in order to decipher what the goals, aspirations and motivations are of a client to create what the desired path forward. I value taking the time to listen, understanding and truly comprehending what a client needs and how they want to achieve it within a solution focused mindset. I endeavour to work with all clients at their own pace in order to build self-reflective practice and create long lasting positive changes.
As a counsellor I have dealt with a multitude of presentations ranging from high risk, suicidal and self harm clients to anxiety, life coaching and depression. I aim to build an authentic therapeutic relationship in order to decipher what the goals, aspirations and motivations are of a client to create what the desired path forward. I value taking the time to listen, understanding and truly comprehending what a client needs and how they want to achieve it within a solution focused mindset. I endeavour to work with all clients at their own pace in order to build self-reflective practice and create long lasting positive changes.
(03) 8362 9012 View (03) 8362 9012
George Nelson
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Essendon North, VIC 3041
George is a qualified psychotherapist, coach, clinical counsellor, relationship therapist, educator, speech therapist, voice production and training consultant. George has worked with children, teenagers and adults to help them with communication, speech, voice production and dramatic expression for presentation, (certain clients include news-presenters, actors, reporters and radio announcers). Working with individuals, couples & adolescents, George has developed a specialisation for relationship/couples counselling, family therapy as well as Men’s Health (for men, their partners and families).
George is a qualified psychotherapist, coach, clinical counsellor, relationship therapist, educator, speech therapist, voice production and training consultant. George has worked with children, teenagers and adults to help them with communication, speech, voice production and dramatic expression for presentation, (certain clients include news-presenters, actors, reporters and radio announcers). Working with individuals, couples & adolescents, George has developed a specialisation for relationship/couples counselling, family therapy as well as Men’s Health (for men, their partners and families).
(03) 7302 8896 View (03) 7302 8896
Claire Raworth Counselling & Supervision
Social Worker, AMHSW
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
​ I use a variety of evidenced based approaches, but particularly Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), EMDR and compassion focused approaches.
I am an empathetic, compassionate and experienced counsellor & Clinical Supervisor who utilises a range of evidence-based therapeutic approaches to assist you to make positive changes in your life. I have been a social worker for many years and in that time have provided counselling and support to a wide range of people. I can support you with various issues such as life transitions, work stress, relationship and parenting challenges, grief & loss, anxiety and depression. I am a fully Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and so you can claim a rebate of $87.00 from Medicare for my counselling services.
​ I use a variety of evidenced based approaches, but particularly Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), EMDR and compassion focused approaches.
I am an empathetic, compassionate and experienced counsellor & Clinical Supervisor who utilises a range of evidence-based therapeutic approaches to assist you to make positive changes in your life. I have been a social worker for many years and in that time have provided counselling and support to a wide range of people. I can support you with various issues such as life transitions, work stress, relationship and parenting challenges, grief & loss, anxiety and depression. I am a fully Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and so you can claim a rebate of $87.00 from Medicare for my counselling services.
(03) 8338 4975 View (03) 8338 4975
Sultan Aldemir
Counsellor, MA, AASW
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
OFFERING ONLY ONLINE/ TELEPHONE COUNSELLING: I have been working as a Social worker and Counsellor for over 7 years with experience providing therapy to individuals, families & adolescents. I've supported people from all scopes of life through complex issues including trauma, family violence, & mood disorders such as anxiety & depression. I have worked in diverse community settings and roles where I have gained extensive knowledge and experience in supporting clients building skills to cope with challenging circumstances.
OFFERING ONLY ONLINE/ TELEPHONE COUNSELLING: I have been working as a Social worker and Counsellor for over 7 years with experience providing therapy to individuals, families & adolescents. I've supported people from all scopes of life through complex issues including trauma, family violence, & mood disorders such as anxiety & depression. I have worked in diverse community settings and roles where I have gained extensive knowledge and experience in supporting clients building skills to cope with challenging circumstances.
0499 429 054 View 0499 429 054

See more therapy options for Essendon North

Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists
How does acceptance and commitment therapy work?
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy encourages a person to listen to their self-talk. A person’s inner dialog can be indicative of how they treat themselves. ACT also encourages self-compassion; this can lead to a better understanding of negative thought patterns and emotional states. This understanding can then lead the individual to needed behavior change.

What are the goals of acceptance and commitment therapy?
The goal of acceptance and commitment is to expand a person’s psychological flexibility, a trait that encourages an individual to live in the present moment and to accept all their thoughts, feelings, and emotions, even ones that are difficult such as sadness and anxiety. In ACT, this acceptance is congruent with the individual’s values and beliefs.

Does acceptance and commitment therapy work for depression?
Acceptance and commitment therapy is effective for depression because it allows the individual to view their discomfort and suffering differently. Depressive feelings about relationship heartaches, for example, are a part of life. A despondent person learns to let go of their struggles and instead view their painful thoughts and feelings with compassion. This will lead the individual toward positive change.

How long are people typically in acceptance and commitment therapy?
A typical acceptance and commitment therapy session is 50 minutes long with one session per week. Treatment for common problems such as anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties can last between eight weeks to four months. However, more severe cases may require more than one session a week and/or a longer time frame for treatment.