Eating Disorders Psychologists and Therapists in Footscray, VIC

Photo of max p castle, Counsellor, ACA-L1
max p castle
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Serves Area
I am especially interested in providing support around disordered eating, neurodivergence, non-normative relationships, pregnancy and loss.
One of the miraculous things about being queer or trans is that our experiences do not fit in any box. Yet at times, we find ourselves isolated and uncertain, navigating our lives without a blueprint. Whether you are courageously working to heal troubled relationships with eating and food (including intersections with gender dysphoria or neurodivergence), navigating IVF, pregnancy or miscarriage as a queer person, working out non-normative relationship structures and transitions, or seeking to connect wiith what helps you to stay alive in this world, counselling with me is a safe and trusting space to reflect, heal and grow.
I am especially interested in providing support around disordered eating, neurodivergence, non-normative relationships, pregnancy and loss.
One of the miraculous things about being queer or trans is that our experiences do not fit in any box. Yet at times, we find ourselves isolated and uncertain, navigating our lives without a blueprint. Whether you are courageously working to heal troubled relationships with eating and food (including intersections with gender dysphoria or neurodivergence), navigating IVF, pregnancy or miscarriage as a queer person, working out non-normative relationship structures and transitions, or seeking to connect wiith what helps you to stay alive in this world, counselling with me is a safe and trusting space to reflect, heal and grow.
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Photo of Alannah Giavara, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Alannah Giavara
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialise in working with clients with anxiety, low mood/depression, friendship/relationship challenges, eating disorders, autism and ADHD (a full list is a little further down).
I use a blend of approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based practices to tailor sessions to your individual needs. I’m committed to creating a safe, open, and supportive space where you can explore your experiences without judgement.
I specialise in working with clients with anxiety, low mood/depression, friendship/relationship challenges, eating disorders, autism and ADHD (a full list is a little further down).
I use a blend of approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based practices to tailor sessions to your individual needs. I’m committed to creating a safe, open, and supportive space where you can explore your experiences without judgement.
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Photo of Natalie Susan Burfurd - Heart and Hope Counselling, Social Worker, AASW
Heart and Hope Counselling
Social Worker, AASW
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 Callista Goh, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Callista Goh
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Footscray, VIC 3011
Waitlist for new clients
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 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 Tania Huynh, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Tania Huynh
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Footscray, VIC 3011
Tania is a bilingual clinical psychologist and co-founder of Holding Compassion. Tania has a special interest in working with people from culturally diverse communities and offers therapy in English and Vietnamese. With over 10 years experience working in the private sector and public mental health as a senior clinical psychologist in outpatient settings. She offers telehealth and in person psychological services for individuals and clinical supervision for supervisees.
Tania is a bilingual clinical psychologist and co-founder of Holding Compassion. Tania has a special interest in working with people from culturally diverse communities and offers therapy in English and Vietnamese. With over 10 years experience working in the private sector and public mental health as a senior clinical psychologist in outpatient settings. She offers telehealth and in person psychological services for individuals and clinical supervision for supervisees.
(03) 8338 4221 View (03) 8338 4221
Photo of Alison Morris, Occupational Therapist
Alison Morris
Occupational Therapist
Footscray, VIC 3011
I have a particular interest in working with young adults (16yr plus), women's health, disordered eating, and body image, with a focus on the whole person.
I am an AHPRA Registered Mental Health Professional, with over 20 years of clinical experience across mental and physical health. I bring both professional expertise and genuine compassion to my work. I create a safe, inclusive space where clients feel truly heard, supported, and empowered to navigate life’s challenges with confidence. I draw on a range of evidence-based approaches but have a special interest in using somatic / sensory-based approaches alongside traditional talk therapies to support the whole person, not just isolated symptoms.
I have a particular interest in working with young adults (16yr plus), women's health, disordered eating, and body image, with a focus on the whole person.
I am an AHPRA Registered Mental Health Professional, with over 20 years of clinical experience across mental and physical health. I bring both professional expertise and genuine compassion to my work. I create a safe, inclusive space where clients feel truly heard, supported, and empowered to navigate life’s challenges with confidence. I draw on a range of evidence-based approaches but have a special interest in using somatic / sensory-based approaches alongside traditional talk therapies to support the whole person, not just isolated symptoms.
(03) 8338 1491 View (03) 8338 1491
Photo of Joanne Cook, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Joanne Cook
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Footscray, VIC 3011
I am experienced working on a range of mental health problems including; behavioural disorders, oppositional defiance disorder, neuro-diversity, eating disorders, anxiety, depression and trauma.
Hi, I’m Jo. I am a registered Mental Health Social Worker and Clinical Family Therapist with experience working in public and private mental health settings. 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.
I am experienced working on a range of mental health problems including; behavioural disorders, oppositional defiance disorder, neuro-diversity, eating disorders, anxiety, depression and trauma.
Hi, I’m Jo. I am a registered Mental Health Social Worker and Clinical Family Therapist with experience working in public and private mental health settings. 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 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 Walter Carter, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Walter Carter
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Footscray, VIC 3011
I collaborate with clients experiencing ADHD, bipolar, anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, PTSD, sexual dysfunction, relationship issues and eating disorders.
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.
I collaborate with clients experiencing ADHD, bipolar, anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, PTSD, sexual dysfunction, relationship issues and eating disorders.
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 Cindy Melksham, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Cindy Melksham
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Footscray, VIC 3011
Clients often come to me feeling stuck in anxiety, self-doubt, or overwhelmed by past experiences. Many struggle with performance anxiety, social anxiety, or confidence issues that affect school, work, relationships, or public speaking. I work with people who are ready to go beyond talk therapy to overcome their challenges and create opportunities. Using a trauma-informed, brain-body approach, including techniques such as Brainspotting and EFT tapping, I help teens and adults regulate their nervous system, process underlying experiences, and build lasting confidence so they can move forward with greater ease.
Clients often come to me feeling stuck in anxiety, self-doubt, or overwhelmed by past experiences. Many struggle with performance anxiety, social anxiety, or confidence issues that affect school, work, relationships, or public speaking. I work with people who are ready to go beyond talk therapy to overcome their challenges and create opportunities. Using a trauma-informed, brain-body approach, including techniques such as Brainspotting and EFT tapping, I help teens and adults regulate their nervous system, process underlying experiences, and build lasting confidence so they can move forward with greater ease.
0448 512 199 View 0448 512 199
Photo of Edy Xie, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Edy Xie
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Footscray, VIC 3011
I am a registered psychologist with an immigrant background, having grown up in Australia. I understand the challenges of navigating mental health support and the confusion that can come with finding the right therapist. My approach prioritises honesty, being upfront while maintaining rapport and creating a safe, supportive space for clients.
I am a registered psychologist with an immigrant background, having grown up in Australia. I understand the challenges of navigating mental health support and the confusion that can come with finding the right therapist. My approach prioritises honesty, being upfront while maintaining rapport and creating a safe, supportive space for clients.
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Photo of Louise O'Dwyer, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Louise O'Dwyer
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
I am a supportive, nurturing therapist helping people resolve anxiety, relationship difficulties, self-esteem issues, depression, the effects of trauma and many other difficulties and concerns. I love my work and I take great pleasure witnessing people strengthen their lives as they gain support and clarity. I am passionate about helping people deepen awareness, increase well-being and growth, and experience fulfilling lives.
I am a supportive, nurturing therapist helping people resolve anxiety, relationship difficulties, self-esteem issues, depression, the effects of trauma and many other difficulties and concerns. I love my work and I take great pleasure witnessing people strengthen their lives as they gain support and clarity. I am passionate about helping people deepen awareness, increase well-being and growth, and experience fulfilling lives.
(03) 9118 9082 View (03) 9118 9082
Photo of Jess Bernardi, Psychologist, PsychD, MACPA
Jess Bernardi
Psychologist, PsychD, MACPA
Serves Area
I'm a Clinical Psychologist and registered supervisor with experience treating individuals in a wide range of mental health settings. I tailor my clinical skills to meet the unique needs of each individual, ensuring that they benefit as much as possible from the therapeutic experience and achieve richer, fuller and more meaningful lives.
I'm a Clinical Psychologist and registered supervisor with experience treating individuals in a wide range of mental health settings. I tailor my clinical skills to meet the unique needs of each individual, ensuring that they benefit as much as possible from the therapeutic experience and achieve richer, fuller and more meaningful lives.
(03) 9034 8481 View (03) 9034 8481
Photo of Dimitri Hawa, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Dimitri Hawa
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Dimitri has significant experience providing psychotherapy with adults. Areas of expertise include relationship issues, grief, depression, anxiety, anger management, neurodiverse affirming (ADHD/ASD), and, facilitating the process of psychological recovery from trauma and complex trauma (i., e childhood/adult abuse issues, domestic violence, family dysfunction, childhood neglect). Dimitri has worked as a private practice over several years, school psychologist, Victims of Crime, Transport Accident Commission (TAC), NDIS disability work, along with previous experience in the provision of psychological support in prison settings.
Dimitri has significant experience providing psychotherapy with adults. Areas of expertise include relationship issues, grief, depression, anxiety, anger management, neurodiverse affirming (ADHD/ASD), and, facilitating the process of psychological recovery from trauma and complex trauma (i., e childhood/adult abuse issues, domestic violence, family dysfunction, childhood neglect). Dimitri has worked as a private practice over several years, school psychologist, Victims of Crime, Transport Accident Commission (TAC), NDIS disability work, along with previous experience in the provision of psychological support in prison settings.
(03) 9007 2339 View (03) 9007 2339
Photo of Caroline Spiers, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Caroline Spiers
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Serves Area
Are you struggling with your life and feel you might have unresolved issues, trauma, relationship or neurodiversity challenges or managing family dynamics/adoptee/grief and loss, bereavement or cultural issues? LGBTQIA+ needs that aren’t being seen or understood? Effective therapy will allow you space to talk and be heard and validated, guide you at your own pace on your journey and provide safety and non judgement to explore what can be achieved. This is the foundation of my practice - always from a trauma informed perspective.
Are you struggling with your life and feel you might have unresolved issues, trauma, relationship or neurodiversity challenges or managing family dynamics/adoptee/grief and loss, bereavement or cultural issues? LGBTQIA+ needs that aren’t being seen or understood? Effective therapy will allow you space to talk and be heard and validated, guide you at your own pace on your journey and provide safety and non judgement to explore what can be achieved. This is the foundation of my practice - always from a trauma informed perspective.
(03) 7003 2855 View (03) 7003 2855
Photo of Abbie Grace Couchman, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Abbie Grace Couchman
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I take a relaxed and collaborative approach to therapy and aim to create a space that feels warm, supportive, and genuine. Some people come to therapy with a specific issue they want help with; others are looking to understand longer-standing patterns in themselves or their relationships. I work both short-term and longer-term, and tailor therapy to what feels most helpful. My focus is on creating a safe and honest space where change can unfold at a pace that feels right.
I take a relaxed and collaborative approach to therapy and aim to create a space that feels warm, supportive, and genuine. Some people come to therapy with a specific issue they want help with; others are looking to understand longer-standing patterns in themselves or their relationships. I work both short-term and longer-term, and tailor therapy to what feels most helpful. My focus is on creating a safe and honest space where change can unfold at a pace that feels right.
0480 032 931 View 0480 032 931
Photo of Samantha Taffe, Social Worker, MSc, AMHSW
Samantha Taffe
Social Worker, MSc, AMHSW
Serves Area
Professional Trainings - 2025 IFS Level 3, 2025- Program Assistant Level 1 IFS Training, 2024- EMDR Level 1 and 2 -2023- IFS Level 2 (Addictions and Eating Disorders), 2021- IFS Level 1, 2020- Comprehensive DBT, 2017 - Level 1 Schema Therapy
Therapy can feel like a big step. Maybe part of you is hopeful, part of you is skeptical, and another part is already trying to cancel the appointment. I’m trained in IFS (Level 1, 2 & 3), EMDR and DBT. IFS sees every person as made up of many parts, each one trying (sometimes in unhelpful ways) to keep us safe and seen. Whether it’s the overachiever, the inner critic, the people pleaser, or the stay in bed binge scroller. I’ve met them all, in clients and in myself. Together, we’ll help your Self step into the lead with curiosity, compassion and a laugh or two along the way Sessions Telehealth and In person
Professional Trainings - 2025 IFS Level 3, 2025- Program Assistant Level 1 IFS Training, 2024- EMDR Level 1 and 2 -2023- IFS Level 2 (Addictions and Eating Disorders), 2021- IFS Level 1, 2020- Comprehensive DBT, 2017 - Level 1 Schema Therapy
Therapy can feel like a big step. Maybe part of you is hopeful, part of you is skeptical, and another part is already trying to cancel the appointment. I’m trained in IFS (Level 1, 2 & 3), EMDR and DBT. IFS sees every person as made up of many parts, each one trying (sometimes in unhelpful ways) to keep us safe and seen. Whether it’s the overachiever, the inner critic, the people pleaser, or the stay in bed binge scroller. I’ve met them all, in clients and in myself. Together, we’ll help your Self step into the lead with curiosity, compassion and a laugh or two along the way Sessions Telehealth and In person
(03) 4422 4836 View (03) 4422 4836
D & M Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Stan is a registered clinical psychologist with a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and membership of the Australian Psychological Society. He has 16 years of training and experience and can speak in both Greek and English languages. He also has experience in working with adolescents, adults, older adults, and couples
Stan is a registered clinical psychologist with a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and membership of the Australian Psychological Society. He has 16 years of training and experience and can speak in both Greek and English languages. He also has experience in working with adolescents, adults, older adults, and couples
0459 620 148 View 0459 620 148
Photo of Nikki Black, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Nikki Black
Counsellor, ACA-L1
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Life can be tough, but you don’t have to face it alone. Counselling can help you navigate your way back to feeling better about life. I’m a compassionate counsellor with over 20 years of experience in healthcare. I understand how overwhelming life’s challenges can be—whether you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, addiction, or any other personal issues. Taking that first step toward change is often the hardest, but with new strategies and support change is possible.
Life can be tough, but you don’t have to face it alone. Counselling can help you navigate your way back to feeling better about life. I’m a compassionate counsellor with over 20 years of experience in healthcare. I understand how overwhelming life’s challenges can be—whether you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, addiction, or any other personal issues. Taking that first step toward change is often the hardest, but with new strategies and support change is possible.
0461 467 981 View 0461 467 981
Photo of Maree Nekich, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Maree Nekich
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
As a Clinical Psychologist with additional specialist training in Family Therapy Maree has undergone extensive training to help her understand, prevent and relieve distress. She has over 15yrs experience in the private & public mental health care industry where she has provided individual, couple and family therapy to clients aged 6–80yrs. Her approach respects that the needs of each client will be unique and can't be simplified by a generic diagnosis or treated in a generic way. Therefore, every client will be afforded the opportunity to be listened to deeply at their own pace and following an assessment offered tailored treatment.
As a Clinical Psychologist with additional specialist training in Family Therapy Maree has undergone extensive training to help her understand, prevent and relieve distress. She has over 15yrs experience in the private & public mental health care industry where she has provided individual, couple and family therapy to clients aged 6–80yrs. Her approach respects that the needs of each client will be unique and can't be simplified by a generic diagnosis or treated in a generic way. Therefore, every client will be afforded the opportunity to be listened to deeply at their own pace and following an assessment offered tailored treatment.
(03) 9111 2650 View (03) 9111 2650

See more therapy options for Footscray

Eating Disorders Therapists
What happens in therapy for eating disorders?
In therapy for eating disorders, patients typically describe their eating and exercise behaviours, their patterns of eating in relation to stress, their beliefs about their body, the ways their eating behaviour affects their relationships, and their desire (or lack of it) to change. Such information helps the therapist understand the origins of the disorder and the role it plays in the patient’s life, important for guiding treatment. Attitudes and feelings about food and eating, body weight, and physical appearance are common topics of discussion throughout treatment.

What therapy types help with eating disorders?
Once any acute medical or psychiatric emergency is resolved, psychoactive medication is often prescribed, requiring the supervision of a psychiatrist. In addition, patients receive some form of nutritional counselling along with one or more forms of psychotherapy. For adolescents, family-based treatment is empirically validated and considered the first line of treatment; parents and their children meet weekly with a clinician as the adults are coached on how to nourish and psychologically support the young patient. Adults typically receive some form of individual psychotherapy, intended to resolve the cognitive and behavioural disturbances that underlie the disorder and to relieve the mood disturbances that accompany it. In addition, patients may also be helped by group therapy.

What is the goal of therapy for eating disorders?
The most immediate goal of treatment for eating disorders is to save the life of people who are on a path of starving themselves to death or engaging in eating patterns that are doing irreparable physical harm to their body. Once the acute medical danger is past, therapy is required to understand the nature of the disordered eating and/or exercise patterns, establish healthy eating behaviour, and to tackle the many erroneous beliefs and distorted self-perceptions that underlie eating disorders and continue to pose a threat to health and life. Therapy also addresses the impaired mood that not only accompanies eating disorders but intensifies the danger to health and life.

What are the limitations of therapy for eating disorders?
Therapy can be very helpful for eating disorders—but that can happen only after people recognise they have a condition that must be treated. Especially with anorexia, the distortions in self-image that accompany the disorder can keep people from acknowledging they have a problem. Individuals may in fact see their eating disorder as a badge of self-control. Those with binge-eating disorder may feel too ashamed to seek help. Therapy cannot help those who do not avail themselves of it.

How long does therapy last for eating disorders?
Because of their complexity, recovery from eating disorders is usually a long-term process—measured in months and years— often marked by setbacks and relapse. Some form of help, such as individual or group therapy, may be advisable for much of that time. It is a general rule of thumb that the longer the illness has endured and the dysregulated eating behaviour has taken root, the longer treatment is likely to be needed.