Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Psychologists and Therapists in Footscray, VIC

Photo of Natalie Susan Burfurd - Heart and Hope Counselling, Social Worker, AMHSW
Heart and Hope Counselling
Social Worker, AMHSW
Footscray, VIC 3011
I provide counselling, therapy and social work services in both the Ballarat and Footscray areas as well as online. I provide supportive, empathic and flexible responses to individual needs, taking the body, mind and soul into consideration. I have over thirty years of counselling experience and have particular expertise in grief and loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, mental health issues and working with many other concerns. I am passionate about holding the hope and working from the heart as well as utilising diverse knowledge and skills. It is important to me that counselling is affordable to people who need it.
I provide counselling, therapy and social work services in both the Ballarat and Footscray areas as well as online. I provide supportive, empathic and flexible responses to individual needs, taking the body, mind and soul into consideration. I have over thirty years of counselling experience and have particular expertise in grief and loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, mental health issues and working with many other concerns. I am passionate about holding the hope and working from the heart as well as utilising diverse knowledge and skills. It is important to me that counselling is affordable to people who need it.
(03) 8658 2101 View (03) 8658 2101
Photo of Garth Bennett - Melbourne Inner West Psychology with Garth Bennett, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Melbourne Inner West Psychology with Garth Bennett
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Footscray, VIC 3011
To do this he provides CBT, ACT, psychoeducation, couples and interpersonal therapy, hypnotherapy, and PRT.
Garth works with adults of all genders, ages, cultural backgrounds, and sexual orientations. Garth can assist clients with mood disorders, challenging emotions, depression, anxiety, stress, OCD, addictions, changing stages in life, recovering from injuries, trauma, and managing chronic pain. Garth is compassionate towards your needs and circumstances, so that it truly feels you have someone in your corner to work with, listens to you, challenges when needed, helps find solutions, and helps you implement the changes you want in your life.
To do this he provides CBT, ACT, psychoeducation, couples and interpersonal therapy, hypnotherapy, and PRT.
Garth works with adults of all genders, ages, cultural backgrounds, and sexual orientations. Garth can assist clients with mood disorders, challenging emotions, depression, anxiety, stress, OCD, addictions, changing stages in life, recovering from injuries, trauma, and managing chronic pain. Garth is compassionate towards your needs and circumstances, so that it truly feels you have someone in your corner to work with, listens to you, challenges when needed, helps find solutions, and helps you implement the changes you want in your life.
0466 597 472 View 0466 597 472
Photo of Cody Potter, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Cody Potter
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Footscray, VIC 3011
Hi, I'm Cody! I am a Clinical Psychologist who provides psychological support for exclusively for children, adolescents and their families. I am experienced in providing assessment, treatment and parenting advice for a range of mental health issues of issues including anxiety, depression, challenging behaviours, social skills, sleep, trauma and school-based issues. I am also trained to administer cognitive and educational assessments as well as Autism Spectrum Disorder assessments. I have worked in both private and public health services including the Royal Children's Hospital, where I was Senior Mental Health Clinician.
Hi, I'm Cody! I am a Clinical Psychologist who provides psychological support for exclusively for children, adolescents and their families. I am experienced in providing assessment, treatment and parenting advice for a range of mental health issues of issues including anxiety, depression, challenging behaviours, social skills, sleep, trauma and school-based issues. I am also trained to administer cognitive and educational assessments as well as Autism Spectrum Disorder assessments. I have worked in both private and public health services including the Royal Children's Hospital, where I was Senior Mental Health Clinician.
(03) 7003 2120 View (03) 7003 2120
Photo of Mary Ta, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Mary Ta
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Footscray, VIC 3011
I mainly use ACT, EMDR, and CBT in my work.
I'm a Clinical / Educational and Developmental Psychologist who's passionate about working with you in an engaging, collaborative, and compassionate way. Using evidence-based practices, I support individuals (aged 10 years and above) for a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, burnout, stress, trauma, grief and loss, life transitions, and relationship issues - among other issues listed below.
I mainly use ACT, EMDR, and CBT in my work.
I'm a Clinical / Educational and Developmental Psychologist who's passionate about working with you in an engaging, collaborative, and compassionate way. Using evidence-based practices, I support individuals (aged 10 years and above) for a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, burnout, stress, trauma, grief and loss, life transitions, and relationship issues - among other issues listed below.
(03) 8566 7768 View (03) 8566 7768
Photo of Joanne Cook, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Joanne Cook
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Footscray, VIC 3011
Hi, I’m Jo. I am a registered Mental Health Social Worker and Clinical Family Therapist. My dog, Blanche, is my trusted colleague, who offers animal assisted therapy. I specialise in child, adolescence and family therapy. Children learn through play which is the cornerstone of my evidence based therapeutic interventions. I offer therapy to adults and families who wish to explore relational patterns, heal trauma and mobilise strengths to enjoy deeper connections and improve family functioning. By cultivating a therapeutic relationship and using curiosity over judgment, I offer a space for you to think about and work towards change.
Hi, I’m Jo. I am a registered Mental Health Social Worker and Clinical Family Therapist. My dog, Blanche, is my trusted colleague, who offers animal assisted therapy. I specialise in child, adolescence and family therapy. Children learn through play which is the cornerstone of my evidence based therapeutic interventions. I offer therapy to adults and families who wish to explore relational patterns, heal trauma and mobilise strengths to enjoy deeper connections and improve family functioning. By cultivating a therapeutic relationship and using curiosity over judgment, I offer a space for you to think about and work towards change.
(08) 9126 9091 View (08) 9126 9091
Photo of Samantha Fredericks, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Samantha Fredericks
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Footscray, VIC 3011
I am a general psychologist with an MBA and have diverse experience in clinical and business settings. I work one-on-one with adults with anxiety and panic disorders, depression, overwhelm, neurodiversity, trauma, PTSD and complex presentations. I believe that we experience psychological distress when there’s a disconnect between where we find ourselves in our lives and relationships right now, what has happened to us in the past, and what we worry may happen in the future.
I am a general psychologist with an MBA and have diverse experience in clinical and business settings. I work one-on-one with adults with anxiety and panic disorders, depression, overwhelm, neurodiversity, trauma, PTSD and complex presentations. I believe that we experience psychological distress when there’s a disconnect between where we find ourselves in our lives and relationships right now, what has happened to us in the past, and what we worry may happen in the future.
(03) 7020 2710 View (03) 7020 2710
Photo of Sophie Manente, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Sophie Manente
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Footscray, VIC 3011
I work with my clients in a human, down to earth way. I see us as two people working together to find what will help make things better for you. We'll look at more than just your symptoms; we'll look at your life experiences, your relationships, your family & ancestral history, social & environmental systems around you, and how your body is responding to all of this. I tend to work deeply and do more than just teach you strategies. I am interested in supporting you to get to the root cause of things, because I believe that is where we find liberation and self-compassion.
I work with my clients in a human, down to earth way. I see us as two people working together to find what will help make things better for you. We'll look at more than just your symptoms; we'll look at your life experiences, your relationships, your family & ancestral history, social & environmental systems around you, and how your body is responding to all of this. I tend to work deeply and do more than just teach you strategies. I am interested in supporting you to get to the root cause of things, because I believe that is where we find liberation and self-compassion.
(03) 4505 2412 View (03) 4505 2412
Photo of Mish Kumar-Jonson, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Mish Kumar-Jonson
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Footscray, VIC 3011
I love supporting BIPOC, neurodivergent and LGBTIQA+ folks to navigate through a range of traumas and distress such as intergenerational, personal or community traumas. People are often curious about how their body might hold onto emotions, feelings, memories or experiences and how these manifest in everyday interactions both internally and externally which I support them to explore. Folks who are a great fit for me are attempting to bring healing and understanding to difficult moments in their life in a way that allows space for peace and calm in both the body and mind
I love supporting BIPOC, neurodivergent and LGBTIQA+ folks to navigate through a range of traumas and distress such as intergenerational, personal or community traumas. People are often curious about how their body might hold onto emotions, feelings, memories or experiences and how these manifest in everyday interactions both internally and externally which I support them to explore. Folks who are a great fit for me are attempting to bring healing and understanding to difficult moments in their life in a way that allows space for peace and calm in both the body and mind
(03) 8592 7434 View (03) 8592 7434
Photo of Lua Bruckhoff - Calm Centre Therapy, Social Worker, MA, AASW
Calm Centre Therapy
Social Worker, MA, AASW
1 Endorsed
Footscray, VIC 3011
I work with people who are feeling lost in life, burnt out or anxious, who might be questioning their identity or gender, navigating grief, relationship issues and life changes. I know that reaching out for help is hard but you don't have to hold these things alone. I’m Lua (she/her) a queer, bicultural therapist (persian/german). I offer a space that is LGBTQIA+ affirming & culturally responsive, honouring the many layers that have shaped how you relate to yourself and others. Together, we’ll make space for all parts of you and map out a way forward that feels meaningful to you.
I work with people who are feeling lost in life, burnt out or anxious, who might be questioning their identity or gender, navigating grief, relationship issues and life changes. I know that reaching out for help is hard but you don't have to hold these things alone. I’m Lua (she/her) a queer, bicultural therapist (persian/german). I offer a space that is LGBTQIA+ affirming & culturally responsive, honouring the many layers that have shaped how you relate to yourself and others. Together, we’ll make space for all parts of you and map out a way forward that feels meaningful to you.
View
Photo of Anna Inkster, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Anna Inkster
Counsellor, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Footscray, VIC 3011
Feeling emotionally exhausted, depressed, burnt out or anxious takes up a lot of energy and mental space. I meet people everyday who are struggling to feel better, they are at the mercy of their thoughts and are living on auto pilot. Our mind is constantly selling us stories and putting meaning to our experiences; it is the meaning we attach to circumstances, situations and experiences that can cause the suffering. Counselling can help with this! If you have been putting this off and just surviving, this is a sign to reach out for help-and yes, I do believe in signs!
Feeling emotionally exhausted, depressed, burnt out or anxious takes up a lot of energy and mental space. I meet people everyday who are struggling to feel better, they are at the mercy of their thoughts and are living on auto pilot. Our mind is constantly selling us stories and putting meaning to our experiences; it is the meaning we attach to circumstances, situations and experiences that can cause the suffering. Counselling can help with this! If you have been putting this off and just surviving, this is a sign to reach out for help-and yes, I do believe in signs!
(03) 6146 1669 View (03) 6146 1669
Photo of Kayla Ta, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Kayla Ta
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Footscray, VIC 3011
She draws on modalities such as ACT, CBT, DBT, schema therapy, mindfulness, parts work, and psychodynamic therapy.
Kayla Ta is a Registered Psychologist providing therapy for adults, adolescents, and children (8+). She works with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, neurodivergence, self-esteem, parenting and family issues, life transitions, and stress. She also conducts assessments for children, adolescents, and adults using evidence-based, neuroaffirming tools, including autism, ADHD, cognitive, and learning assessments. Assessments provide clear feedback and practical recommendations, with consistent support and guidance throughout the process.
She draws on modalities such as ACT, CBT, DBT, schema therapy, mindfulness, parts work, and psychodynamic therapy.
Kayla Ta is a Registered Psychologist providing therapy for adults, adolescents, and children (8+). She works with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, neurodivergence, self-esteem, parenting and family issues, life transitions, and stress. She also conducts assessments for children, adolescents, and adults using evidence-based, neuroaffirming tools, including autism, ADHD, cognitive, and learning assessments. Assessments provide clear feedback and practical recommendations, with consistent support and guidance throughout the process.
0478 218 789 View 0478 218 789
Photo of Callista Goh, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Callista Goh
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Footscray, VIC 3011
Waitlist for new clients
I integrate a range of approaches including Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Acceptance Commitment Therapy & EMDR.
I am a queer-identifying registered psychologist, dedicated to providing trauma-informed, evidence-based care tailored to the unique needs & strengths of each client. I am committed to fostering strong therapeutic relationships to help clients lead more authentic & fulfilling lives. I understand how difficult it is to navigate the mental healthcare system and to find the right therapist, especially if you are Neurodiverse, Queer and/or from a Culturally Diverse background. In therapy, I use both my clinical & lived experience to inform my process & tailor my approach with each individual client's needs and unique context in mind.
I integrate a range of approaches including Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Acceptance Commitment Therapy & EMDR.
I am a queer-identifying registered psychologist, dedicated to providing trauma-informed, evidence-based care tailored to the unique needs & strengths of each client. I am committed to fostering strong therapeutic relationships to help clients lead more authentic & fulfilling lives. I understand how difficult it is to navigate the mental healthcare system and to find the right therapist, especially if you are Neurodiverse, Queer and/or from a Culturally Diverse background. In therapy, I use both my clinical & lived experience to inform my process & tailor my approach with each individual client's needs and unique context in mind.
(02) 5016 3990 View (02) 5016 3990
Photo of Michelle Phan, Social Worker, MA
Michelle Phan
Social Worker, MA
1 Endorsed
Footscray, VIC 3011
I use a range of therapeutic modalities, including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Mindfulness and Positive Psychology.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker who supports clients throughout their reproductive journeys and the challenges that may arise along the way. I am passionate about empowering people to make informed reproductive choices and helping them navigate infertility, birth trauma, perinatal loss (including stillbirth, miscarriage, and termination), abortion grief, adoption, perinatal mental health concerns, and the transition to parenthood. I work hard to cultivate a trusting, authentic, and collaborative therapeutic relationship to support meaningful and sustainable treatment goals.
I use a range of therapeutic modalities, including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Mindfulness and Positive Psychology.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker who supports clients throughout their reproductive journeys and the challenges that may arise along the way. I am passionate about empowering people to make informed reproductive choices and helping them navigate infertility, birth trauma, perinatal loss (including stillbirth, miscarriage, and termination), abortion grief, adoption, perinatal mental health concerns, and the transition to parenthood. I work hard to cultivate a trusting, authentic, and collaborative therapeutic relationship to support meaningful and sustainable treatment goals.
(03) 9958 8772 View (03) 9958 8772
Photo of Natalia Burfurd, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Natalia Burfurd
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Footscray, VIC 3011
I work with a wide variety of issues. I am patient and empathic. I appreciate that change can occur quickly or slowly. I work in various locations around the city and western suburbs. I have over twenty years experience as a professional counsellor. I have obtained a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology/ Anthropology), a Graduate Diploma in Loss and Grief Counselling, a Diploma of Learning Solutions in Counselling, a Master of Social Work (Qualifying), a Graduate Certificate in Disability and Inclusion and a Master of Mental Health. I am passionate about growth, change and healing.
I work with a wide variety of issues. I am patient and empathic. I appreciate that change can occur quickly or slowly. I work in various locations around the city and western suburbs. I have over twenty years experience as a professional counsellor. I have obtained a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology/ Anthropology), a Graduate Diploma in Loss and Grief Counselling, a Diploma of Learning Solutions in Counselling, a Master of Social Work (Qualifying), a Graduate Certificate in Disability and Inclusion and a Master of Mental Health. I am passionate about growth, change and healing.
(08) 9126 9460 x045072 View (08) 9126 9460 x045072
Photo of Walter Carter, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Walter Carter
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Footscray, VIC 3011
Sometimes we require a helping hand when adjusting to an ever-changing world. I want to help you develop skills and tools to create sustainable fulfilment within your life. Common challenges we all face include issues with self-esteem, processing negative or strong emotions, work-life balance, adjusting to change, developing meaningful relationships, and discovering our purpose. In addition, stress, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and interpersonal conflict can obstruct our ability to experience life to its fullest potential. You have the ability to unlock your own power, and I want to help you discover that inner strength.
Sometimes we require a helping hand when adjusting to an ever-changing world. I want to help you develop skills and tools to create sustainable fulfilment within your life. Common challenges we all face include issues with self-esteem, processing negative or strong emotions, work-life balance, adjusting to change, developing meaningful relationships, and discovering our purpose. In addition, stress, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and interpersonal conflict can obstruct our ability to experience life to its fullest potential. You have the ability to unlock your own power, and I want to help you discover that inner strength.
0480 137 195 View 0480 137 195
Photo of Takeo Kameoka, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Takeo Kameoka
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Footscray, VIC 3011
I focus on addressing a range of challenges associated with depression, anxiety, relationship, identity exploration, ADHD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, attachment and trauma, and navigating life transitions, and I'm dedicated to providing personalised and compassionate care tailored to each participant’s unique needs.
I focus on addressing a range of challenges associated with depression, anxiety, relationship, identity exploration, ADHD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, attachment and trauma, and navigating life transitions, and I'm dedicated to providing personalised and compassionate care tailored to each participant’s unique needs.
(03) 8338 4427 View (03) 8338 4427
Photo of Talya Samuell, Counsellor, AMHSW
Talya Samuell
Counsellor, AMHSW
Footscray, VIC 3011
I am trained in Internal Family Systems and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, as well as other approaches — because one size doesn't fit all.
I have trained extensively in IFS. I have level one training with the IFS institute. I engage my own therapist and am closely supervised by people with expertise. I bring together my training and education with my life experience.
I am trained in Internal Family Systems and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, as well as other approaches — because one size doesn't fit all.
I have trained extensively in IFS. I have level one training with the IFS institute. I engage my own therapist and am closely supervised by people with expertise. I bring together my training and education with my life experience.
(03) 8338 4542 View (03) 8338 4542
Photo of Joyce Joyce - Joyce, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Joyce
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Footscray, VIC 3011
Joyce uses approaches such as EMDR, CBT, ACT, and positive behaviour support to help clients process trauma, manage anxiety, and build skills to navigate daily life with more ease and self-compassion.
Joyce is a Clinical Psychologist with a strong commitment to neuro-affirming, trauma-informed care. She works with adults and adolescents who may feel overwhelmed by past experiences, sensory overload, or difficulties regulating emotions. Many of her clients identify as neurodivergent or have experienced complex trauma. She aims to create a safe, compassionate space where you can feel understood and empowered.
Joyce uses approaches such as EMDR, CBT, ACT, and positive behaviour support to help clients process trauma, manage anxiety, and build skills to navigate daily life with more ease and self-compassion.
Joyce is a Clinical Psychologist with a strong commitment to neuro-affirming, trauma-informed care. She works with adults and adolescents who may feel overwhelmed by past experiences, sensory overload, or difficulties regulating emotions. Many of her clients identify as neurodivergent or have experienced complex trauma. She aims to create a safe, compassionate space where you can feel understood and empowered.
1300 380 357 View 1300 380 357
Photo of Lidija Trpcevska - Bright Psych, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Bright Psych
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Footscray, VIC 3011
Bright Psych provides a comprehensive psychological service for adolescents and adults.
Bright Psych provides a comprehensive psychological service for adolescents and adults.
(03) 9068 6415 View (03) 9068 6415
Photo of Stephanie Heinemann, Psychologist, PsyBA Prov
Stephanie Heinemann
Psychologist, PsyBA Prov
Footscray, VIC 3011
Stephanie is interested in supporting others through their disability, injury, or illness journeys and towards self- acceptance.
Stephanie focuses on building a comfortable and inviting space using a person-centred, strengths-based approach to promote confidence and self- acceptance. She observes a trauma-informed and culturally responsive practice and can adapt the therapy approach to suit your needs and goals.
Stephanie is interested in supporting others through their disability, injury, or illness journeys and towards self- acceptance.
Stephanie focuses on building a comfortable and inviting space using a person-centred, strengths-based approach to promote confidence and self- acceptance. She observes a trauma-informed and culturally responsive practice and can adapt the therapy approach to suit your needs and goals.
(03) 8338 1187 View (03) 8338 1187

See more therapy options for Footscray

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.