Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Psychologists and Therapists in Footscray, VIC

Photo of Awombda Codd, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Awombda Codd
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Footscray, VIC 3011
Awombda is a Gestalt relational psychotherapist who is passionate about change, choice and allowing space to grow. She has worked in the community sector for over 25 years in mental health, homelessness and drug and alcohol. Awombda has extensive experience working with anxiety and depression, PTSD, grief and loss, trauma, relationship difficulties and substance use issues. Awombda has specialist expertise working with the LGBTIQA+ community. In addition to her practice Awombda has taught in the Graduate Art therapy program at Miecat and is currently on faculty at Gestalt Therapy Australia.
Awombda is a Gestalt relational psychotherapist who is passionate about change, choice and allowing space to grow. She has worked in the community sector for over 25 years in mental health, homelessness and drug and alcohol. Awombda has extensive experience working with anxiety and depression, PTSD, grief and loss, trauma, relationship difficulties and substance use issues. Awombda has specialist expertise working with the LGBTIQA+ community. In addition to her practice Awombda has taught in the Graduate Art therapy program at Miecat and is currently on faculty at Gestalt Therapy Australia.
(03) 8797 5391 View (03) 8797 5391
Photo of Felix Perigrie, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Felix Perigrie
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
2 Endorsed
Footscray, VIC 3011
I work with neurodivergent, LGBTIQA+, and other marginalised folks who are feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and burnt out. Together we'll use strengths-based counselling, Narrative Therapy, and creative, collaborative conversations to explore the patterns of our lives and shift the barriers in our way.
I work with neurodivergent, LGBTIQA+, and other marginalised folks who are feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and burnt out. Together we'll use strengths-based counselling, Narrative Therapy, and creative, collaborative conversations to explore the patterns of our lives and shift the barriers in our way.
(03) 8592 9249 View (03) 8592 9249
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 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 Toa Thredgold, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Toa Thredgold
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Online Only
You might feel anxious, stuck or uncertain about what comes next. Maybe you’re processing grief, identity changes or relationship stress, or you’ve just lost touch with your sense of direction. You value honesty, warmth and real conversation over quick fixes. You want to feel more grounded, confident and connected to who you truly are. You’re not looking to be 'fixed,' but to understand yourself better and move through life with clarity and self-trust.
You might feel anxious, stuck or uncertain about what comes next. Maybe you’re processing grief, identity changes or relationship stress, or you’ve just lost touch with your sense of direction. You value honesty, warmth and real conversation over quick fixes. You want to feel more grounded, confident and connected to who you truly are. You’re not looking to be 'fixed,' but to understand yourself better and move through life with clarity and self-trust.
(03) 8338 1717 View (03) 8338 1717
Photo of Marie Vakakis, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Marie Vakakis
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Footscray, VIC 3011
Are you feeling worried, overwhelmed, or struggling in your relationship or daily life? Maybe you and your partner are finding it hard to connect, or perhaps you’re facing challenges on your own—feeling stressed, anxious, or like your usual energy has disappeared. When even small tasks or conversations feel like too much, it can be exhausting, and it’s easy to retreat from the world. I understand how difficult this can be, and I’m here to help. Whether you’re facing relationship issues, personal struggles, or family dynamics, I provide a non-judgmental space for individuals, couples, and families to work through their challenges.
Are you feeling worried, overwhelmed, or struggling in your relationship or daily life? Maybe you and your partner are finding it hard to connect, or perhaps you’re facing challenges on your own—feeling stressed, anxious, or like your usual energy has disappeared. When even small tasks or conversations feel like too much, it can be exhausting, and it’s easy to retreat from the world. I understand how difficult this can be, and I’m here to help. Whether you’re facing relationship issues, personal struggles, or family dynamics, I provide a non-judgmental space for individuals, couples, and families to work through their challenges.
(03) 8613 3424 View (03) 8613 3424
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 Manisha Abraham, Counsellor, PACFA
Manisha Abraham
Counsellor, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Footscray, VIC 3011
Waitlist for new clients
Manisha (they/she) is a queer, neurodivergent, Sri Lankan-Fijian Indian non-binary woman, born and raised in Aotearoa, New Zealand. A person-centred narrative therapist, EMDR practitioner, and resource therapist (parts work), Manisha brings a deep commitment to anti-colonial care. Raised in a bicultural haven, they carry the belief that what's good for Māori is good for all, an ethos woven into both life and practice. Therapy with Manisha is grounded in collective thriving, cultural safety, and the gentle yet powerful art of storytelling.
Manisha (they/she) is a queer, neurodivergent, Sri Lankan-Fijian Indian non-binary woman, born and raised in Aotearoa, New Zealand. A person-centred narrative therapist, EMDR practitioner, and resource therapist (parts work), Manisha brings a deep commitment to anti-colonial care. Raised in a bicultural haven, they carry the belief that what's good for Māori is good for all, an ethos woven into both life and practice. Therapy with Manisha is grounded in collective thriving, cultural safety, and the gentle yet powerful art of storytelling.
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Photo of Daniel Di Pietro, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Daniel Di Pietro
Psychotherapist, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Footscray, VIC 3011
He specialises in working with sexological presentations around male sexual health, sexual and gender identity, intimacy, pleasure, desire discrepancy, kink and fetish-related behaviours, sexual functioning and relational challenges.
Daniel works with an emotion-focused, experiential, and humanistic approach to therapy tailored to his client's specific needs. Daniel offers an enriching experience through an empathically supportive environment that allows clients to gain access to, connect with, and make sense of their emotional experiences, which can lead to lasting, lifelong change.
He specialises in working with sexological presentations around male sexual health, sexual and gender identity, intimacy, pleasure, desire discrepancy, kink and fetish-related behaviours, sexual functioning and relational challenges.
Daniel works with an emotion-focused, experiential, and humanistic approach to therapy tailored to his client's specific needs. Daniel offers an enriching experience through an empathically supportive environment that allows clients to gain access to, connect with, and make sense of their emotional experiences, which can lead to lasting, lifelong change.
(03) 7003 2160 View (03) 7003 2160
Photo of Daniel Paglialonga, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Daniel Paglialonga
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Footscray, VIC 3011
Have you ever been kept up late at night reliving distressing memories? Does your mind chatter and strong emotions interfere with your day-to-day? Are you looking to understand yourself more and make some changes? If your answer is "yes", then we should talk.
Have you ever been kept up late at night reliving distressing memories? Does your mind chatter and strong emotions interfere with your day-to-day? Are you looking to understand yourself more and make some changes? If your answer is "yes", then we should talk.
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Photo of Tigist Kebede, MA
Tigist Kebede
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Tigist Kebede is Naarm (Melbourne) based Black Counsellor, who employs trauma informed, decolonizing and intersectional frameworks into her practice and advocacy. She specificalised in working with adults with particular interest in culturally responsive clinical practice. Tigist has experience working forensic, non-profit and health sector. She has a history with working with racial trauma, sexual assault, family violence and refugee trauma.
Tigist Kebede is Naarm (Melbourne) based Black Counsellor, who employs trauma informed, decolonizing and intersectional frameworks into her practice and advocacy. She specificalised in working with adults with particular interest in culturally responsive clinical practice. Tigist has experience working forensic, non-profit and health sector. She has a history with working with racial trauma, sexual assault, family violence and refugee trauma.
(03) 9001 5665 View (03) 9001 5665
Photo of Dr Arran Rose, Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Dr Arran Rose
Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Online Only
I am a clinical and forensic psychologist and supervisor who is dedicated to providing the best possible support to my clients across a range of settings. I provide both couples counselling and individual therapy and work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, psychosis, substance use issues, grief and relationship issues, as well as with people who are neurodivergent. I take a collaborative and evidence based approach with my clients to ensure we acheive the best possible outcomes.
I am a clinical and forensic psychologist and supervisor who is dedicated to providing the best possible support to my clients across a range of settings. I provide both couples counselling and individual therapy and work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, psychosis, substance use issues, grief and relationship issues, as well as with people who are neurodivergent. I take a collaborative and evidence based approach with my clients to ensure we acheive the best possible outcomes.
(03) 9344 1573 View (03) 9344 1573
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 Annabel Chan, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Annabel Chan
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Online Only
You might be neurodivergent and queer (or neuroqueer), part of poly/ENM or kink communities, or a sex-worker seeking care that doesn’t judge or pathologise.
I offer trauma-informed, attachment-based, neurodiversity-affirming therapy for adults seeking clarity and connection. My approach integrates psychological science with lived understanding of neuroqueer experience, ENM, kink and sex-work contexts. We build skills, insight, and self-trust at a pace that suits you.
You might be neurodivergent and queer (or neuroqueer), part of poly/ENM or kink communities, or a sex-worker seeking care that doesn’t judge or pathologise.
I offer trauma-informed, attachment-based, neurodiversity-affirming therapy for adults seeking clarity and connection. My approach integrates psychological science with lived understanding of neuroqueer experience, ENM, kink and sex-work contexts. We build skills, insight, and self-trust at a pace that suits you.
0413 887 975 View 0413 887 975
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 Arthur De Jesus, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Arthur De Jesus
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello! Thank you for considering me as your therapist. Inspired by the Filipino gesture of "akbay," my approach is one of warmth, trust, and understanding, I am here to walk alongside you on your journey toward healing and growth. I recognise and respect your unique experiences, so that you can be in therapy as you are. I practice with safety and inclusivity for all individuals. I primarily draw on attachment-based, trauma-informed, and cognitive-behavioural perspectives and use a holistic approach to therapy that incorporates thoughts, feelings, body/sensations, and behaviours towards positive outcomes.
Hello! Thank you for considering me as your therapist. Inspired by the Filipino gesture of "akbay," my approach is one of warmth, trust, and understanding, I am here to walk alongside you on your journey toward healing and growth. I recognise and respect your unique experiences, so that you can be in therapy as you are. I practice with safety and inclusivity for all individuals. I primarily draw on attachment-based, trauma-informed, and cognitive-behavioural perspectives and use a holistic approach to therapy that incorporates thoughts, feelings, body/sensations, and behaviours towards positive outcomes.
(03) 7003 2144 View (03) 7003 2144
Photo of Amy Russell, Social Worker, AASW
Amy Russell
Social Worker, AASW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Amy. I understand how exhausting it can feel to navigate a world not built with neurodivergent minds in mind. Masking, burnout, workplace challenges, grief, or the uncertainty of exploring Autism, ADHD, or other forms of neurodivergence can leave you feeling unseen, overwhelmed, or disconnected. I bring both lived experience, warmth and professional expertise to create a safe, affirming space. My approach is neuroaffirming, sensory-aware, and flexible, tailored to your needs, preferences, and pace. Together we can explore identity, build self-compassion, strengthen relationships, and develop practical strategies.
Hi, I’m Amy. I understand how exhausting it can feel to navigate a world not built with neurodivergent minds in mind. Masking, burnout, workplace challenges, grief, or the uncertainty of exploring Autism, ADHD, or other forms of neurodivergence can leave you feeling unseen, overwhelmed, or disconnected. I bring both lived experience, warmth and professional expertise to create a safe, affirming space. My approach is neuroaffirming, sensory-aware, and flexible, tailored to your needs, preferences, and pace. Together we can explore identity, build self-compassion, strengthen relationships, and develop practical strategies.
0437 437 432 View 0437 437 432
Photo of Cristiona Guiney, Social Worker, AASW
Cristiona Guiney
Social Worker, AASW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, my name is Cristiona and I am passionate about social change, building safe, compassionate and supportive relationships, and creating opportunities for people to be empowered. I live with chronic pain, autism, ADHD and lived experience of suicidality, anxiety, depression and being a transgender queer person. This gives me a unique perspective to my work. All this may mean I am not the right therapist for you, but also if working alongside someone with lived experience who get's it is important to you I might be just the person.
Hi, my name is Cristiona and I am passionate about social change, building safe, compassionate and supportive relationships, and creating opportunities for people to be empowered. I live with chronic pain, autism, ADHD and lived experience of suicidality, anxiety, depression and being a transgender queer person. This gives me a unique perspective to my work. All this may mean I am not the right therapist for you, but also if working alongside someone with lived experience who get's it is important to you I might be just the person.
(03) 8338 1788 View (03) 8338 1788
Photo of max p castle, Counsellor, ACA-L1
max p castle
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Serves Area
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.
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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Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists
Why might an individual want to see a sex-positive, kink-allied therapist?
A sex-positive or kinky individual may want to see a sex-positive, kink-allied therapist because the client may feel safer and more supported discussing their experiences and challenges. A therapist who identifies as kink-friendly will have experience with clients having diverse sexual preferences and will likely be nonjudgmental and supportive about issues brought to the table. It is important to note that sex-positive, kink-allied individuals may find equal success with therapists who do not have such specialised knowledge and background. The most important factor in the success of therapy is for the client and practitioner to form a strong, trusting bond.

Do therapists have special training to gain expertise in sex-positive, kink-allied treatment?
Generally, no. There are limited training programs and unofficial accreditations that therapists can pursue, but a therapist’s expertise will ultimately come from their previous experience with similar clients, their engagement with organisations that promote sex positivity or kink-allied lifestyles, and the importance they place on safety and cultural sensitivity.

How can individuals recognise a good sex-positive, kink-allied therapist?
An experienced therapist is able to help clients explore their sexual identity and expression and relieve any discomfort or stigma attached to discussing such matters and the client’s overall challenges. A therapist who is sex-positive and kink-allied is able to create an environment that honors a client’s experience and sexual preferences. To recognise a good therapist, clients can simply ask directly about topics and issues important to them and gauge their comfort level and connection with a clinician based on the responses.

Can clients benefit from having a therapist with a focus on sex positivity and alternative sexual lifestyles?
Some individuals may feel most comfortable knowing that the clinician they’re working with has a commitment to creating an atmosphere of sex positivity and has experience with relationship diversity and alternative relationship structures. Working with a sex-positive, kink-allied therapist may help clients respect their own challenges and improve identity-affirming treatment.