Attachment-based Counselling in Essendon, VIC

Photo of Ishma Alvi - Ishma Alvi Psychology, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Ishma Alvi Psychology
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Essendon, VIC 3040
My work is informed by principles of gender, sexual and racial equity. My practice is grounded in principles of inclusion, actively serving BIPOC, CALD, and LGBTQIA+ communities, applying Anti-Oppression framework and a trauma-informed lens. Her work is helped by the fact that she is fluent in Urdu, Hindi, and English. I offer individual and relationship counselling for people from 21 years upward, for issues, including anxiety, eating disorders, trauma, sexual wellbeing and relationships. My work is guided by principles of gender, sexual, and racial equity. I am committed to inclusion and actively support BIPOC, CALD, and LGBTQIA+
My work is informed by principles of gender, sexual and racial equity. My practice is grounded in principles of inclusion, actively serving BIPOC, CALD, and LGBTQIA+ communities, applying Anti-Oppression framework and a trauma-informed lens. Her work is helped by the fact that she is fluent in Urdu, Hindi, and English. I offer individual and relationship counselling for people from 21 years upward, for issues, including anxiety, eating disorders, trauma, sexual wellbeing and relationships. My work is guided by principles of gender, sexual, and racial equity. I am committed to inclusion and actively support BIPOC, CALD, and LGBTQIA+
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Photo of Ben Moberley, Psychologist, MA, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Ben Moberley
Psychologist, MA, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Essendon, VIC 3040
As a registered Community Psychologist I work in a range of therapeutic approaches, tailored to individual needs. My focus is on well-being and self-discovery, prioritising each individual’s life experiences. My therapeutic practice emphasises collaboration and informed decision-making, helping clients navigate challenges such as: Depression Anxiety Life changes and adjustments Stress management Living with the impacts of trauma Grief and loss Low self-esteem Work-related stress Coaching and support
As a registered Community Psychologist I work in a range of therapeutic approaches, tailored to individual needs. My focus is on well-being and self-discovery, prioritising each individual’s life experiences. My therapeutic practice emphasises collaboration and informed decision-making, helping clients navigate challenges such as: Depression Anxiety Life changes and adjustments Stress management Living with the impacts of trauma Grief and loss Low self-esteem Work-related stress Coaching and support
(03) 7046 3378 View (03) 7046 3378
Photo of Sky Mutch, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Sky Mutch
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Online Only
Sky uses a holistic and individualised approach with each client that aims to explore and incorporate aspects of physical, spiritual, emotional, social and mental wellbeing into a whole picture of the individual in a safe, non-judgemental space where you can feel heard and accepted as you move through your therapy journey. Sky has experience working across the lifespan with individuals aged 17 and above, with different cultural backgrounds, sexual orientations/identifications and presentations such as depression, anxiety, stress, general wellbeing, ADHD support, relationship problems, anger, self-esteem and practical problem solving
Sky uses a holistic and individualised approach with each client that aims to explore and incorporate aspects of physical, spiritual, emotional, social and mental wellbeing into a whole picture of the individual in a safe, non-judgemental space where you can feel heard and accepted as you move through your therapy journey. Sky has experience working across the lifespan with individuals aged 17 and above, with different cultural backgrounds, sexual orientations/identifications and presentations such as depression, anxiety, stress, general wellbeing, ADHD support, relationship problems, anger, self-esteem and practical problem solving
(03) 8007 2271 View (03) 8007 2271
Photo of Rania Ahmed, Counsellor, PACFA
Rania Ahmed
Counsellor, PACFA
Essendon, VIC 3040
To make sense of the world we live in can be very hard. Join me in trying the untangle knots and opened locked doors to our truth and finding a more productive perspective on our stories.
To make sense of the world we live in can be very hard. Join me in trying the untangle knots and opened locked doors to our truth and finding a more productive perspective on our stories.
(03) 7303 3139 x048148 View (03) 7303 3139 x048148
Photo of Laura Parker, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Laura Parker
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Essendon, VIC 3040
I provide neuroaffirming, evidence-based support for children and adolescents aged 8-17 through assessments and therapy. I work with clients navigating stress, anxiety, grief, school challenges, ADHD, autism, and specific learning disorders. I also offer educational support to schools and can provide assessments across the lifespan. My approach focuses on understanding strengths and supporting practical strategies to help clients feel heard, understood, and empowered.
I provide neuroaffirming, evidence-based support for children and adolescents aged 8-17 through assessments and therapy. I work with clients navigating stress, anxiety, grief, school challenges, ADHD, autism, and specific learning disorders. I also offer educational support to schools and can provide assessments across the lifespan. My approach focuses on understanding strengths and supporting practical strategies to help clients feel heard, understood, and empowered.
0493 396 893 View 0493 396 893
Photo of Jo Lockart - Kind Heart Counselling , Social Worker, MA, AASW
Kind Heart Counselling
Social Worker, MA, AASW
Essendon, VIC 3040
Safe, compassionate and non-pathologising therapy for women and girls 16+. As a woman you may have experienced trauma or significant emotional distress caused by discrimination, sexual assault, abuse, bullying, interpersonal violence or medical misogyny . These traumatic experiences may be significantly impacting your life where you're now seeking healing: to live a life with more peace and calm. I have experience supporting women with complex childhood trauma, or trauma as a result of domestic, institutional or sexual abuse. I promise to meet you where you are - gently and mindfully. I am also a qualified Clinical Supervisor.
Safe, compassionate and non-pathologising therapy for women and girls 16+. As a woman you may have experienced trauma or significant emotional distress caused by discrimination, sexual assault, abuse, bullying, interpersonal violence or medical misogyny . These traumatic experiences may be significantly impacting your life where you're now seeking healing: to live a life with more peace and calm. I have experience supporting women with complex childhood trauma, or trauma as a result of domestic, institutional or sexual abuse. I promise to meet you where you are - gently and mindfully. I am also a qualified Clinical Supervisor.
(03) 9068 6218 View (03) 9068 6218
Photo of Tatiana Assaad, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Tatiana Assaad
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Essendon, VIC 3040
Many of my clients are children and teens who are navigating anxiety, ADHD, autism, or challenges at school. Parents often come to me seeking answers, support, and a plan to help their child feel more regulated, understood, and connected. These families want someone who truly “gets it”—who can balance professional skill with warmth and care.
Many of my clients are children and teens who are navigating anxiety, ADHD, autism, or challenges at school. Parents often come to me seeking answers, support, and a plan to help their child feel more regulated, understood, and connected. These families want someone who truly “gets it”—who can balance professional skill with warmth and care.
0468 401 822 View 0468 401 822
Photo of Dr Lauren Stavropoulos, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Lauren Stavropoulos
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Essendon, VIC 3040
Lauren is a warm and compassionate Clinical Psychologist who focuses on building genuine and collaborative therapeutic relationships with her clients. Lauren supports individuals experiencing a range of concerns including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma, perfectionism, eating disorders and body image concerns, difficulties in interpersonal relationships, self-esteem and identity concerns, and adjustment to illness or life transitions.
Lauren is a warm and compassionate Clinical Psychologist who focuses on building genuine and collaborative therapeutic relationships with her clients. Lauren supports individuals experiencing a range of concerns including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma, perfectionism, eating disorders and body image concerns, difficulties in interpersonal relationships, self-esteem and identity concerns, and adjustment to illness or life transitions.
(02) 8806 1243 View (02) 8806 1243
Photo of Anthony Hurst, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Anthony Hurst
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Essendon, VIC 3040
Anthony is a Youth, Family, Couples & EMDR Psychologist, and the Director of Systemic Psychology. Clinically, Anthony frequently works with young people, couples, families and individuals experiencing a range of mental health issues. Professionally, Anthony has worked in private practice, schools, local government, consulting and currently as a postgraduate lecturer at The University of Melbourne.
Anthony is a Youth, Family, Couples & EMDR Psychologist, and the Director of Systemic Psychology. Clinically, Anthony frequently works with young people, couples, families and individuals experiencing a range of mental health issues. Professionally, Anthony has worked in private practice, schools, local government, consulting and currently as a postgraduate lecturer at The University of Melbourne.
(02) 4504 0120 View (02) 4504 0120
Photo of Vanessa Staub - Vanessa Staub Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Vanessa Staub Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Essendon, VIC 3040
I am a Psychologist with over 20 Years experience treating a wide range of mental health issues. I help my clients develop a holistic mind-body approach to improve their mental heath & develop the tools they need to cope with all of life’s challenges. I take the time to listen & get to know you, to hear your story & what has lead you to access counselling. I work collaboratively with you to help you understand your symptoms, their causes & maintaining factors, & develop a treatment plan that best suits your individual needs. I also continue to support you with a recovery and relapse prevention plan once you are feeling well.
I am a Psychologist with over 20 Years experience treating a wide range of mental health issues. I help my clients develop a holistic mind-body approach to improve their mental heath & develop the tools they need to cope with all of life’s challenges. I take the time to listen & get to know you, to hear your story & what has lead you to access counselling. I work collaboratively with you to help you understand your symptoms, their causes & maintaining factors, & develop a treatment plan that best suits your individual needs. I also continue to support you with a recovery and relapse prevention plan once you are feeling well.
(03) 8338 1083 View (03) 8338 1083
Photo of Jessica Jepson - Relationship Counselling, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Relationship Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L2
4 Endorsed
Online Only
If you are experiencing relationship anxiety or challenges in forming secure connections with others, I am here to assist you. Together, we can delve into the root causes of these issues, explore your options, and develop effective strategies to improve your communication in relationships. I will help you understand your attachments, build healthy boundaries, and enhance your self-worth, enabling you to regulate your emotions and build deeper connections. My primary aim is to provide you with the necessary support, tools, and resources to heal, improve your self-worth, feel confident, and connect with others so that you can thrive.
If you are experiencing relationship anxiety or challenges in forming secure connections with others, I am here to assist you. Together, we can delve into the root causes of these issues, explore your options, and develop effective strategies to improve your communication in relationships. I will help you understand your attachments, build healthy boundaries, and enhance your self-worth, enabling you to regulate your emotions and build deeper connections. My primary aim is to provide you with the necessary support, tools, and resources to heal, improve your self-worth, feel confident, and connect with others so that you can thrive.
(03) 8338 1069 View (03) 8338 1069
Photo of Tyler Gitsham, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Tyler Gitsham
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Essendon, VIC 3040
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
Photo of Jessica Rosano - Jessica Rosano, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Jessica Rosano
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I help people who are struggling with perfectionism, burnout, anxiety from day-to-day stressors, overthinking, ADHD, depression, relationship struggles, low self-esteem, and trauma. I provide therapy that is accessible to the community, without compromising on the quality of care. I offer personalised support for individuals aged 16 and above. I also provide support in developing effective coping skills and emotional regulation. No matter what you're going through, I am committed to helping you regain control and to feel more like yourself through genuine connection, collaboration, and with strategies that work for your lifestyle.
I help people who are struggling with perfectionism, burnout, anxiety from day-to-day stressors, overthinking, ADHD, depression, relationship struggles, low self-esteem, and trauma. I provide therapy that is accessible to the community, without compromising on the quality of care. I offer personalised support for individuals aged 16 and above. I also provide support in developing effective coping skills and emotional regulation. No matter what you're going through, I am committed to helping you regain control and to feel more like yourself through genuine connection, collaboration, and with strategies that work for your lifestyle.
1300 898 963 View 1300 898 963
Photo of Safaa Hakim, Counsellor, PACFA
Safaa Hakim
Counsellor, PACFA
Serves Area
I am compassionate about guiding my clients to explore their difficulties and strengthen their emotional wellbeing. I provide specific counselling in the areas of anxiety, stress, depression, and relationships; as well as behavioural and other cognitive issues, offering a wide range of counselling support to meet the needs of clients and an organisation’s employees.
I am compassionate about guiding my clients to explore their difficulties and strengthen their emotional wellbeing. I provide specific counselling in the areas of anxiety, stress, depression, and relationships; as well as behavioural and other cognitive issues, offering a wide range of counselling support to meet the needs of clients and an organisation’s employees.
(03) 9034 5950 View (03) 9034 5950
Photo of Mona Shafique - Mind Therapy Psychotherapeutic Services, Social Worker, AMHSW
Mind Therapy Psychotherapeutic Services
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
Immediate Openings Available - Medicare Bulk Billed. Face to face + telehealth. Cognitive Behavioural, Mindfulness, Emotional Focused Therapy & more. I work from the belief that the therapeutic relationship is built on trust, acceptance, validation and understanding. My purpose is to get you unstuck, confident, emotionally intelligent and not afraid to face life. I am passionate about working with Individuals, Adolescents & Couples facilitating meaningful and lasting change. I take pride in my ability to connect in a genuine way with a variety of clients and tailor my approach to best respect each person's potential, strengths.
Immediate Openings Available - Medicare Bulk Billed. Face to face + telehealth. Cognitive Behavioural, Mindfulness, Emotional Focused Therapy & more. I work from the belief that the therapeutic relationship is built on trust, acceptance, validation and understanding. My purpose is to get you unstuck, confident, emotionally intelligent and not afraid to face life. I am passionate about working with Individuals, Adolescents & Couples facilitating meaningful and lasting change. I take pride in my ability to connect in a genuine way with a variety of clients and tailor my approach to best respect each person's potential, strengths.
(03) 7302 2111 View (03) 7302 2111
Photo of Maria Andreadis, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Maria Andreadis
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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.
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
Photo of Melanie Li, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Melanie Li
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Melanie is a registered Psychologist, who completed a Master of Professional Psychology at the University of Melbourne. She has experience working with adolescents, adults, and people of diverse backgrounds at Headspace and in private practice. Having worked and lived abroad, Melanie's life experience offers clients with a flexible, versatile, and culturally sensitive therapy style. She believes clients are the experts of their own lives. Considering each individual’s unique strengths and challenges, Melanie takes a warm and tailored approach to help clients reach their goals.
Melanie is a registered Psychologist, who completed a Master of Professional Psychology at the University of Melbourne. She has experience working with adolescents, adults, and people of diverse backgrounds at Headspace and in private practice. Having worked and lived abroad, Melanie's life experience offers clients with a flexible, versatile, and culturally sensitive therapy style. She believes clients are the experts of their own lives. Considering each individual’s unique strengths and challenges, Melanie takes a warm and tailored approach to help clients reach their goals.
(03) 7003 2155 View (03) 7003 2155
Photo of Fiona Bailey - Junction Psychology, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Junction Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
We are a group of Clinial Psychologists and Clinical Psychology Registrars with a minimum of 6 years university training. We assist clients with a range of mental health and adjustment issues. Please view our website www.junctionpsychology.com.au for more information on who we are and what we offer.
We are a group of Clinial Psychologists and Clinical Psychology Registrars with a minimum of 6 years university training. We assist clients with a range of mental health and adjustment issues. Please view our website www.junctionpsychology.com.au for more information on who we are and what we offer.
(03) 7003 2177 View (03) 7003 2177
Photo of Elise Zijai - Hart&Seek, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Hart&Seek
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you're an adolescent or woman feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in unresolved past experiences, you're not alone. You might be exhausted by the internal chaos, constantly battling big emotions, or struggling to silence that critical inner voice. You want to feel grounded, confident, and free from the pasts' grip. You yearn to understand your emotions better, to stop feeling like 'too much', or 'not enough', and to genuinely feel at peace within yourself, finally embracing all the parts that you, you.
If you're an adolescent or woman feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in unresolved past experiences, you're not alone. You might be exhausted by the internal chaos, constantly battling big emotions, or struggling to silence that critical inner voice. You want to feel grounded, confident, and free from the pasts' grip. You yearn to understand your emotions better, to stop feeling like 'too much', or 'not enough', and to genuinely feel at peace within yourself, finally embracing all the parts that you, you.
(03) 8104 9305 View (03) 8104 9305
Photo of Dr Vesna Newman-Morris, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Dr Vesna Newman-Morris
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Dr Vesna Newman-Morris works collaboratively with her clients to tailor treatment specific to their individual needs in helping them achieve and maintain a state of psychological and emotional well-being. She has expertise, both in clinical practice and in research, on the impact of complex trauma on personality function and mental health. This includes: longstanding issues associated with early childhood trauma and abuse, difficulties following a traumatic event, identifying intergenerational risk and protective factors in parent-infant relationships; improving attachment, resilience and well-being.
Dr Vesna Newman-Morris works collaboratively with her clients to tailor treatment specific to their individual needs in helping them achieve and maintain a state of psychological and emotional well-being. She has expertise, both in clinical practice and in research, on the impact of complex trauma on personality function and mental health. This includes: longstanding issues associated with early childhood trauma and abuse, difficulties following a traumatic event, identifying intergenerational risk and protective factors in parent-infant relationships; improving attachment, resilience and well-being.
(03) 8797 5601 View (03) 8797 5601
Attachment-based Counsellors

Is attachment-based therapy the same as attachment therapy?

Attachment-based therapy may be confused with what is called “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy”), a discredited and dangerous approach to treating children with attachment disorders, autism, or other mental health concerns. Attachment therapy—not attachment-based therapy—may involve restraining a child, forcing eye contact, and other coercive or abusive techniques. None of these practices are used in attachment-based therapy and the two modalities are in no way related.

What should I expect from attachment-based therapy?

Attachment-based therapy is based on attachment theory, which posits that children’s early relationships with their caregivers strongly influence their ability to navigate the world later in life. Thus, adults who seek attachment-based therapy should expect to deeply explore their childhood, identifying the dynamics or experiences that disrupted their attachment and the steps necessary to overcome challenges that arose as a result. Parents and children should expect to explore the possible factors that disrupted the parent-child relationship and work toward restoring trust and connection.

How long does attachment-based therapy last?

Certain forms of attachment-based therapy, especially those designed for parents and children, last for a set number of sessions; for example, Attachment and Biobehavioural Catch-Up, a specific attachment-based approach for young children who have undergone early adversity, unfolds over 10 one-hour sessions. When attachment-based therapy is practiced on adults or combined with other modalities, it may not last a specific length of time; clients may wish to ask prospective therapists how long they expect treatment to take.

Does attachment-based therapy work?

Most of the research on attachment-based therapy focuses on children and adolescents. Some of this research shows a positive effect, especially for attachment-based family therapy (ABFT). Other studies, however, have found that attachment-based therapy is no more effective than other approaches to childhood depression, anxiety, or suicidality. Less is known about the therapy’s efficacy on adult populations.