Psychodynamic Psychologists and Therapists in Footscray, VIC

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 Renee Hughes, Social Worker, AMHSW
Renee Hughes
Social Worker, AMHSW
Footscray, VIC 3011
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Parent Infant Mental Health clinician and Family Report Writer with over 20 years experience working in the field. I work mostly with adults experiencing mental health issues and provide a safe space for people to work through their difficulties. My goal is to help people to understand themselves on a deeper level and have better functioning relationships and a happier life! I also write private reports for the Family Court (62G & Child Impact Reports) and can support and coach individuals going through this process.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Parent Infant Mental Health clinician and Family Report Writer with over 20 years experience working in the field. I work mostly with adults experiencing mental health issues and provide a safe space for people to work through their difficulties. My goal is to help people to understand themselves on a deeper level and have better functioning relationships and a happier life! I also write private reports for the Family Court (62G & Child Impact Reports) and can support and coach individuals going through this process.
(03) 8595 4462 View (03) 8595 4462
Photo of Stephanie Heinemann, Psychologist, PsyBA Prov
Stephanie Heinemann
Psychologist, PsyBA Prov
1 Endorsed
Footscray, VIC 3011
Stephanie enjoys working with teenagers, adults, and older adults with presentations of anxiety, depression, perfectionism, ADHD, autism, and changed levels of ability. Stephanie is interested in supporting others through their disability, injury, or illness journeys and towards self-acceptance. With a diagnosis of ADHD as an adult, Stephanie is also passionate about supporting others with neurodivergence. She understands the difficulty in navigating the stigma, stereotypes, and misinformation surrounding disability, illness, and neurodiversity and believes that, through knowledge and support, it is possible to thrive.
Stephanie enjoys working with teenagers, adults, and older adults with presentations of anxiety, depression, perfectionism, ADHD, autism, and changed levels of ability. Stephanie is interested in supporting others through their disability, injury, or illness journeys and towards self-acceptance. With a diagnosis of ADHD as an adult, Stephanie is also passionate about supporting others with neurodivergence. She understands the difficulty in navigating the stigma, stereotypes, and misinformation surrounding disability, illness, and neurodiversity and believes that, through knowledge and support, it is possible to thrive.
(03) 8338 1187 View (03) 8338 1187
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 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 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 Nathan Smith, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Nathan Smith
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Footscray, VIC 3011
I have a passion for working with young people to empower and support them with their challenges. I also work with people of all ages and gender identities. Whether you are looking for support with anxiety, depression, AOD, relationship issues, or any thing else I'd be happy to help. I also facilitate Dungeons and Dragons Group Therapy sessions for clients wanting to use play and roleplay therapy toward their healing. This is a great way to boost self-esteem and confidence, work through anxiety and depression, and process trauma.
I have a passion for working with young people to empower and support them with their challenges. I also work with people of all ages and gender identities. Whether you are looking for support with anxiety, depression, AOD, relationship issues, or any thing else I'd be happy to help. I also facilitate Dungeons and Dragons Group Therapy sessions for clients wanting to use play and roleplay therapy toward their healing. This is a great way to boost self-esteem and confidence, work through anxiety and depression, and process trauma.
(03) 8594 4097 View (03) 8594 4097
Photo of Dimitri Hawa, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Dimitri Hawa
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Attachment work, Mindfulness-integrated Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Approaches, Client-Centered Framework, Exposure-Response Therapy, Strength-Based Approaches, Social Skills Training and Trauma Focussed Support
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.
Attachment work, Mindfulness-integrated Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Approaches, Client-Centered Framework, Exposure-Response Therapy, Strength-Based Approaches, Social Skills Training and Trauma Focussed Support
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 Daniela Dusanovic, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Daniela Dusanovic
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Daniela works within a CBT/ Psychodynamic lens, with her incorporating elements from various interventions as necessary, such as DBT modules, ACT principles, Imagery rescripting, and Psychodynamic therapy.
Daniela has a warm personality and creates a safe and welcoming environment that supports you to explore your needs and experiences. Therapy is a very collaborative space where your needs are met and explored. Daniela has a passion for working with kids, adolescents, and adults with various presentations; Autism, ADHD, anxiety concerns, depressive disorders, and personality disorders (such as, BPD). Daniela also has experience conducting various diagnostic assessments, such as Cognitive, ADHD, and Personality disorders
Daniela works within a CBT/ Psychodynamic lens, with her incorporating elements from various interventions as necessary, such as DBT modules, ACT principles, Imagery rescripting, and Psychodynamic therapy.
Daniela has a warm personality and creates a safe and welcoming environment that supports you to explore your needs and experiences. Therapy is a very collaborative space where your needs are met and explored. Daniela has a passion for working with kids, adolescents, and adults with various presentations; Autism, ADHD, anxiety concerns, depressive disorders, and personality disorders (such as, BPD). Daniela also has experience conducting various diagnostic assessments, such as Cognitive, ADHD, and Personality disorders
(03) 7302 0617 View (03) 7302 0617
Photo of Dr Sandra Nguyen, Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Dr Sandra Nguyen
Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Online Only
My approach is grounded within a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Psychodynamic framework, however, I also incorporate a number of other evidence based approaches bases on the needs of the clients.
Life can be very tough and stressful and sometimes we need some professional help. I am committed to the care of clients ranging from adolescents, adults, the elderly and couples. I strongly believe in the importance of a well-matched client-therapist relationship. I counsel people with a range of problems which includes depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, interpersonal relationships, personal skills development and self-esteem. I have experience in conducting assessments and preparing reports for the courts and migration issues. I am also fluent in Vietnamese. I offer Telehealth and face to face counselling.
My approach is grounded within a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Psychodynamic framework, however, I also incorporate a number of other evidence based approaches bases on the needs of the clients.
Life can be very tough and stressful and sometimes we need some professional help. I am committed to the care of clients ranging from adolescents, adults, the elderly and couples. I strongly believe in the importance of a well-matched client-therapist relationship. I counsel people with a range of problems which includes depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, interpersonal relationships, personal skills development and self-esteem. I have experience in conducting assessments and preparing reports for the courts and migration issues. I am also fluent in Vietnamese. I offer Telehealth and face to face counselling.
(03) 9034 6057 View (03) 9034 6057
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 Dr Tanja Takala, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Tanja Takala
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I specialise in trauma-focused therapy and integrate a range of modalities to meet my clients’ needs, including EMDR, IFS, parts-work, psychodynamic therapy, ACT and CBT.
I am a Clinical Psychologist and EMDR therapist working in Williamstown and Melbourne CBD (Flagstaff Gardens). I am passionate about working with individuals who are experiencing the effects of traumatic or stressful life events (current or historical) and hope to better understand their inner world, develop tools for regulating their emotions, and feel more confident in navigating life's challenges. I am committed to providing gender and neurodivergent affirming care and creating a safe space for those who wish to explore their identities, cultivate self-compassion and feel empowered to live life as their most authentic selves.
I specialise in trauma-focused therapy and integrate a range of modalities to meet my clients’ needs, including EMDR, IFS, parts-work, psychodynamic therapy, ACT and CBT.
I am a Clinical Psychologist and EMDR therapist working in Williamstown and Melbourne CBD (Flagstaff Gardens). I am passionate about working with individuals who are experiencing the effects of traumatic or stressful life events (current or historical) and hope to better understand their inner world, develop tools for regulating their emotions, and feel more confident in navigating life's challenges. I am committed to providing gender and neurodivergent affirming care and creating a safe space for those who wish to explore their identities, cultivate self-compassion and feel empowered to live life as their most authentic selves.
(03) 7003 2457 View (03) 7003 2457
Photo of Eva Truong, Counsellor, PACFA
Eva Truong
Counsellor, PACFA
Online Only
I'm Eva Truong, a Registered Clinical Counsellor dedicated to supporting individuals, couples, and families through life's challenges and transitions. I provide a compassionate, person-centred, and strength-based approach to help clients build resilience, insight, and lasting change. I work with children (5+ years), adolescents, adults, and older adults experiencing ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, grief and loss, workplace bullying, relationship difficulties, behavioural concerns, dementia-related challenges, career transitions, and family conflict. Together, we create practical pathways toward healing.
I'm Eva Truong, a Registered Clinical Counsellor dedicated to supporting individuals, couples, and families through life's challenges and transitions. I provide a compassionate, person-centred, and strength-based approach to help clients build resilience, insight, and lasting change. I work with children (5+ years), adolescents, adults, and older adults experiencing ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, grief and loss, workplace bullying, relationship difficulties, behavioural concerns, dementia-related challenges, career transitions, and family conflict. Together, we create practical pathways toward healing.
(03) 7302 2563 View (03) 7302 2563
Photo of Halakhe Ganyu - Holistic Counselling Service., Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Holistic Counselling Service.
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Serves Area
Many clients are presented with psychological and emotional symptoms of depression and anxiety disorders. These symptoms are usually a manifestations of underlying issues and unhappiness they may have been experiencing. They often sought help to get relief from such symptoms. In collaboration with the client, assessment and goal formulation, the underlying issues maybe identified and dealt with.
Many clients are presented with psychological and emotional symptoms of depression and anxiety disorders. These symptoms are usually a manifestations of underlying issues and unhappiness they may have been experiencing. They often sought help to get relief from such symptoms. In collaboration with the client, assessment and goal formulation, the underlying issues maybe identified and dealt with.
(03) 8595 5367 View (03) 8595 5367
Photo of Makakhiwe N Masuku - Growing Small Counselling, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Growing Small Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My approach integrates somatic-based and internal family system practices, CBT tools, psychodynamic reflection, and expressive therapies.
Therapy with Growing Small Counselling is relational, respectful, and at your pace. Offering trauma-informed, culturally responsive counselling experiences that honours where you’ve been and helps you explore where you’d like to go. Growing Small Counselling, works with individuals 18+, of all cultural and intersecting backgrounds.
My approach integrates somatic-based and internal family system practices, CBT tools, psychodynamic reflection, and expressive therapies.
Therapy with Growing Small Counselling is relational, respectful, and at your pace. Offering trauma-informed, culturally responsive counselling experiences that honours where you’ve been and helps you explore where you’d like to go. Growing Small Counselling, works with individuals 18+, of all cultural and intersecting backgrounds.
(03) 7302 2184 View (03) 7302 2184
Photo of Izumi Yamaguchi, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Izumi Yamaguchi
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Serves Area
I am passionate to help clients overcome their challenges and take meaningful steps toward a better future. By exploring clients' internal conflicts and working on underlying vulnerabilities, I assist clients in finding ways together to alleviate or solve them.
I am passionate to help clients overcome their challenges and take meaningful steps toward a better future. By exploring clients' internal conflicts and working on underlying vulnerabilities, I assist clients in finding ways together to alleviate or solve them.
(03) 7003 2420 View (03) 7003 2420
Photo of Rosalie Bourne - MindfulNest Therapeutic Services, Social Worker, MA, AASW
MindfulNest Therapeutic Services
Social Worker, MA, AASW
Serves Area
MindfulNest Therapeutic Services is a specialised mental health and wellbeing service that sees babies, children and families from 0-15 years of age. We work with young children from 0-4 years who might have NDIS plans and need support with emotional regulation, stress, worry, sadness, trauma or adjusting the life stages and changes. We work with older children from 5-15 years who might also have NDIS plans or mental health care plans and need support with feelings of worry, sadness, fear or simply need a safe space to talk about life's challenges with a trust and qualified therapist. We also have an accredited therapy dog!
MindfulNest Therapeutic Services is a specialised mental health and wellbeing service that sees babies, children and families from 0-15 years of age. We work with young children from 0-4 years who might have NDIS plans and need support with emotional regulation, stress, worry, sadness, trauma or adjusting the life stages and changes. We work with older children from 5-15 years who might also have NDIS plans or mental health care plans and need support with feelings of worry, sadness, fear or simply need a safe space to talk about life's challenges with a trust and qualified therapist. We also have an accredited therapy dog!
(03) 9000 0643 View (03) 9000 0643
Photo of Natalie O'Connor, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Natalie O'Connor
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Natalie is a clinical psychologist and psychotherapist with areas of interest including depression, anxiety, and single-incident and complex PTSD. She also works with relationship difficulties and recovery from family violence, as well as perinatal and perimenopausal transitions.
Natalie is a clinical psychologist and psychotherapist with areas of interest including depression, anxiety, and single-incident and complex PTSD. She also works with relationship difficulties and recovery from family violence, as well as perinatal and perimenopausal transitions.
0490 685 551 View 0490 685 551
Photo of Brett Bailey - Attachment Matters, Counsellor, PACFA
Attachment Matters
Counsellor, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
You and your partner seek deeper emotional connection and understanding. You love each other but struggle with communication, leading to frequent misunderstandings and feelings of disconnection. You desire to break negative patterns and build a more secure, loving bond. You want to uncover and express your true emotions, heal past wounds, and strengthen your relationship. Your goal is to move from conflict to closeness, fostering a partnership where you both feel valued, heard, and deeply connected.
You and your partner seek deeper emotional connection and understanding. You love each other but struggle with communication, leading to frequent misunderstandings and feelings of disconnection. You desire to break negative patterns and build a more secure, loving bond. You want to uncover and express your true emotions, heal past wounds, and strengthen your relationship. Your goal is to move from conflict to closeness, fostering a partnership where you both feel valued, heard, and deeply connected.
(03) 7003 2566 View (03) 7003 2566
Photo of Marina Salambasis, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Marina Salambasis
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
These modalities include: EMDR, IFS, ACT, CBT, somatic therapy, compassion focused therapy, person-centred therapy, emotion-focused therapy, motivational interviewing, and psychodynamic therapy.
If you suffer from trauma, ADHD, ASD/Autism, depression, anxiety, substance use, sleep issues, relationship issues, eating disorders, low self-esteem, or bereavement, please email me to arrange a free 10-minute consultation. I foster a non-judgmental and safe therapeutic environment where you will feel comfortable and supported discussing difficult topics. I will endeavor to assist you in accessing your own agency and internal resources, leading to greater self-awareness, emotional regulation, and a sense of empowerment.
These modalities include: EMDR, IFS, ACT, CBT, somatic therapy, compassion focused therapy, person-centred therapy, emotion-focused therapy, motivational interviewing, and psychodynamic therapy.
If you suffer from trauma, ADHD, ASD/Autism, depression, anxiety, substance use, sleep issues, relationship issues, eating disorders, low self-esteem, or bereavement, please email me to arrange a free 10-minute consultation. I foster a non-judgmental and safe therapeutic environment where you will feel comfortable and supported discussing difficult topics. I will endeavor to assist you in accessing your own agency and internal resources, leading to greater self-awareness, emotional regulation, and a sense of empowerment.
(03) 7003 2085 View (03) 7003 2085

See more therapy options for Footscray

Psychodynamic Therapists
Is psychodynamic therapy evidence-based?
Studies have found psychodynamic therapy to be effective in treating conditions like social anxiety, eating disorders, chronic pain, some personality disorders, and depression; indeed, some studies have found it to be just as effective as CBT or medication. What’s more, several studies have found that the benefits of psychodynamic therapy tend to endure—even grow—long after treatment has ended.

How long does psychodynamic therapy last?
Unlike CBT and other more structured forms of therapy, psychodynamic therapy tends to be open-ended and may not be limited to a set number of sessions. It is common for clients to be in therapy for a year or longer and to see their therapist one to three times a week, though the exact schedule and timeline may vary depending on a client’s challenges and progress. However, brief psychodynamic therapy is available, which tends to be more goal-oriented and typically unfolds over 16 to 30 sessions.

Does psychodynamic therapy work?
Research finds that psychodynamic therapy can help someone manage or reduce symptoms of diagnosable mental health conditions like depression or anxiety. The modality may also offer a range of benefits that are harder to measure but just as valuable—such as increased self-worth or healthier relationships. While no therapy type will work for everyone, research and anecdotal evidence suggest that psychodynamic therapy can be highly effective.

What are the limitations of psychodynamic therapy?
Some meta-analyses have concluded that there is little evidence to suggest that psychodynamic therapy can effectively treat certain mental health conditions such as PTSD, OCD, or psychosis, though it is sometimes used to do so. More broadly, the open-ended, free-association structure of psychodynamic therapy may be frustrating for clients who prefer a more structured, time-limited, or goal-oriented approach.