Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Counselling in Footscray, VIC

Photo of Daniel Di Pietro, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Daniel Di Pietro
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 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 Mishma Kumar-Jonson - The Iceberg Foundation, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSc, AMHSW
The Iceberg Foundation
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSc, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Footscray, VIC 3011
The Iceberg Foundation is a LGBTIQA+ owned and operated mental health service. We are dedicated to providing an understanding, supportive, and non-judgmental environment to those seeking support. Our aim is to provide a safe space for people of all ages, backgrounds and walks of life to work on and through their past, present and future. ​ At The Iceberg Foundation, we strive to work in an intersectional manner, recognising and respecting people's individual lived and living experiences. We believe that everyone deserves high quality care and we strive to provide the best possible mental health services to the people we work with
The Iceberg Foundation is a LGBTIQA+ owned and operated mental health service. We are dedicated to providing an understanding, supportive, and non-judgmental environment to those seeking support. Our aim is to provide a safe space for people of all ages, backgrounds and walks of life to work on and through their past, present and future. ​ At The Iceberg Foundation, we strive to work in an intersectional manner, recognising and respecting people's individual lived and living experiences. We believe that everyone deserves high quality care and we strive to provide the best possible mental health services to the people we work with
(03) 8338 4427 View (03) 8338 4427
Photo of Sophie Manente, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Sophie Manente
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
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 make things better for you. We'll look at more than just your symptoms; we'll look at your life experiences, your family & ancestral history, societal & 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 getting 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 make things better for you. We'll look at more than just your symptoms; we'll look at your life experiences, your family & ancestral history, societal & 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 getting 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 Marie Vakakis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Marie Vakakis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
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 Tom Trikojus, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Tom Trikojus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Footscray, VIC 3011
I’ve been working as a psychotherapist, counsellor and supervisor in private practice in Footscray for 18 years. The vibrancy, diversity and unique qualities of Footscray and the inner western suburbs of Melbourne have always felt like the right fit for my practice. I’ve worked with a diverse range of issues and presentations. As well as supporting people through mental health issues, I’m also interested in helping people develop their capacity for awareness and self-discovery. I have a steadfast commitment to the depth and transformative potential of the therapeutic process.
I’ve been working as a psychotherapist, counsellor and supervisor in private practice in Footscray for 18 years. The vibrancy, diversity and unique qualities of Footscray and the inner western suburbs of Melbourne have always felt like the right fit for my practice. I’ve worked with a diverse range of issues and presentations. As well as supporting people through mental health issues, I’m also interested in helping people develop their capacity for awareness and self-discovery. I have a steadfast commitment to the depth and transformative potential of the therapeutic process.
(03) 8595 5296 View (03) 8595 5296
Photo of Hana Weeramanthri, Counsellor, MC
Hana Weeramanthri
Counsellor, MC
Verified Verified
Footscray, VIC 3011
Waitlist for new clients
My therapeutic style includes a mix of attachment theory based approaches, and internal family systems, somatic experiencing and psychodynamic therapies. I utilise non-Western conceptualisations of health, mental health, and wellbeing and am deeply influenced by First Nations knowledge of healing, community, kinship and Country. I aim to work with clients' own generational wisdoms, knowledges, and strengths, to improve wellbeing outcomes. I work to interrogate the effects of colonisation, systemic oppression and marginalisation on individuals and communities, as well as the limitations and harms of Western mental health services.
My therapeutic style includes a mix of attachment theory based approaches, and internal family systems, somatic experiencing and psychodynamic therapies. I utilise non-Western conceptualisations of health, mental health, and wellbeing and am deeply influenced by First Nations knowledge of healing, community, kinship and Country. I aim to work with clients' own generational wisdoms, knowledges, and strengths, to improve wellbeing outcomes. I work to interrogate the effects of colonisation, systemic oppression and marginalisation on individuals and communities, as well as the limitations and harms of Western mental health services.
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Photo of Lauren Breen (The Iceberg Foundation), Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Lauren Breen (The Iceberg Foundation)
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Footscray, VIC 3011
Hi there, my name is Lauren (she/her). I am a genuine and compassionate counsellor that believes in your capacity for connection, growth and positive change. I support individuals to increase self-awareness and improve wellbeing by assisting them to identify their strengths and values, and build confidence and motivation to navigate psychological and systemic barriers. I work from a trauma-informed, person-centred, and social justice framework which means that I strive to honour, respect and affirm your unique identity and the way you move through the world.
Hi there, my name is Lauren (she/her). I am a genuine and compassionate counsellor that believes in your capacity for connection, growth and positive change. I support individuals to increase self-awareness and improve wellbeing by assisting them to identify their strengths and values, and build confidence and motivation to navigate psychological and systemic barriers. I work from a trauma-informed, person-centred, and social justice framework which means that I strive to honour, respect and affirm your unique identity and the way you move through the world.
(03) 8594 0105 View (03) 8594 0105
Photo of Awombda Codd, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Awombda Codd
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
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 20 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 LGBTIQ 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 20 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 LGBTIQ 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
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Footscray, VIC 3011
How much time do you spend feeling exhausted? Overwhelmed? Telling yourself “as soon as I have some free time, I’ll…” but that time never comes? The endless “stuff” you’re juggling might be due to a shake up in your life, or maybe you’ve spent most of your life trying to figure out how you’re always solving problems but nothing seems to change. Either way, you’ve noticed the pattern and you’re not going to let it continue. It’s time to prioritise what’s important to you, figure out where your energy has gone, and find the ways to get it back.
How much time do you spend feeling exhausted? Overwhelmed? Telling yourself “as soon as I have some free time, I’ll…” but that time never comes? The endless “stuff” you’re juggling might be due to a shake up in your life, or maybe you’ve spent most of your life trying to figure out how you’re always solving problems but nothing seems to change. Either way, you’ve noticed the pattern and you’re not going to let it continue. It’s time to prioritise what’s important to you, figure out where your energy has gone, and find the ways to get it back.
(03) 8592 9249 View (03) 8592 9249
Photo of Benjamin Croot, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Benjamin Croot
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Footscray, VIC 3011
I would love to work who is open to personal growth an introspection. I love diving deep and seeing people discover new things about themselves. I enjoy working with people that can engage openly with difficult topics. I also love ensuring that sessions can be fun, engaging and light-hearted from time to time. Seeing people grow, change and learn about themselves is the driving force behind why i do what i do.
I would love to work who is open to personal growth an introspection. I love diving deep and seeing people discover new things about themselves. I enjoy working with people that can engage openly with difficult topics. I also love ensuring that sessions can be fun, engaging and light-hearted from time to time. Seeing people grow, change and learn about themselves is the driving force behind why i do what i do.
0412 760 311 View 0412 760 311
Photo of Nathan Smith, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Nathan Smith
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
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 Mish Kumar-Jonson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Mish Kumar-Jonson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
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 Daniel Paglialonga, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Daniel Paglialonga
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
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 Dr Arran Rose, Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Dr Arran Rose
Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Verified Verified
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 I have provided psychological support to clients experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, psychosis, substance use issues, grief and relationship issues, as well as working 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 I have provided psychological support to clients experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, psychosis, substance use issues, grief and relationship issues, as well as working 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 Kevin Vun - inner haven therapy, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
inner haven therapy
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Serves Area
As an empathetic and inclusive counsellor, I am committed to supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds on their unique journeys. With a focus on the queer/gay, BIPOC, Asian, and male communities, I offer a safe space where clients can explore the full spectrum of the human experience. My holistic approach addresses mental health, well-being, relationships, sexuality, identity, and confidence. Together, we'll navigate the complexities of life, fostering self-discovery and empowering personal growth. Let's embark on a transformative path towards healing, authenticity, and empowerment.
As an empathetic and inclusive counsellor, I am committed to supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds on their unique journeys. With a focus on the queer/gay, BIPOC, Asian, and male communities, I offer a safe space where clients can explore the full spectrum of the human experience. My holistic approach addresses mental health, well-being, relationships, sexuality, identity, and confidence. Together, we'll navigate the complexities of life, fostering self-discovery and empowering personal growth. Let's embark on a transformative path towards healing, authenticity, and empowerment.
(02) 9100 0511 View (02) 9100 0511
Photo of Jess Mackenzie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Jess Mackenzie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Jess offers individual counselling, couples counselling and supervision. Jess is welcoming and friendly. She recognises the importance of building a therapeutic relationship to which people can bring problems and issues without judgement. Jess understands that we all experience uncomfortable and unhelpful behaviours and feelings. With support and some gently challenging, these behaviours and feelings can start to shift.
Jess offers individual counselling, couples counselling and supervision. Jess is welcoming and friendly. She recognises the importance of building a therapeutic relationship to which people can bring problems and issues without judgement. Jess understands that we all experience uncomfortable and unhelpful behaviours and feelings. With support and some gently challenging, these behaviours and feelings can start to shift.
(03) 8372 0590 View (03) 8372 0590
Photo of Tigist Kebede, MA
Tigist Kebede
MA
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 Rocco Vincent Mammoliti, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Rocco Vincent Mammoliti
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Rocco is an experienced psychologist with training working with adults, adolescents & children. He is sensitive to the issues young people face today, and how these issues uniquely present within heterosexual and LGBTQIA+ communities. Issues of identity, belonging, low self-worth, people-pleasing, perfectionism, anxiety, periods of depression; essentially, complex histories and how they impact the relationship to oneself and others. These problems can be the underlying cause of a lack of felt purpose or meaning in one’s life. Rocco’s goal is to help people befriend themselves & reconnect with that sense of purpose
Rocco is an experienced psychologist with training working with adults, adolescents & children. He is sensitive to the issues young people face today, and how these issues uniquely present within heterosexual and LGBTQIA+ communities. Issues of identity, belonging, low self-worth, people-pleasing, perfectionism, anxiety, periods of depression; essentially, complex histories and how they impact the relationship to oneself and others. These problems can be the underlying cause of a lack of felt purpose or meaning in one’s life. Rocco’s goal is to help people befriend themselves & reconnect with that sense of purpose
(03) 7037 6915 View (03) 7037 6915
Photo of Mikel Moss - Mikel Moss - Healing Stage Counselling Service , Counsellor, MA
Mikel Moss - Healing Stage Counselling Service
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
Online Only
I work with people from diverse backgrounds who are learning how to live and thrive with a variety of issues, changes, and challenges in their lives. I primarily work within BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) communities, but I am open and able to work with people outside of this area as well. I utilize talk and creative expression, as a way to assist in areas such as setting goals, gaining a deeper understanding of self, moving through and healing trauma, and much more. Check out my website: healingstagemelb.com
I work with people from diverse backgrounds who are learning how to live and thrive with a variety of issues, changes, and challenges in their lives. I primarily work within BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) communities, but I am open and able to work with people outside of this area as well. I utilize talk and creative expression, as a way to assist in areas such as setting goals, gaining a deeper understanding of self, moving through and healing trauma, and much more. Check out my website: healingstagemelb.com
(03) 8203 5993 View (03) 8203 5993
Photo of Danielle Melia - Affirming Wellness, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Danielle Melia - Affirming Wellness
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
There are a few areas of focus that I love supporting clients with; 1). The intersection of the following specific areas, or simply one of these more nuanced areas; people coping with trauma, understanding and managing their neurodivergence, the LGBTQIA+ community, addressing sexual health and intimacy issues, and trans-friendly and knowledgeable healthcare. 2). Everyday client concerns like managing anxiety, low mood, or relationship challenges. 3). Healthcare professionals grappling with burnout symptoms or demanding standards associated with their careers. 4). Adult ADHD/ Autism assessments.
There are a few areas of focus that I love supporting clients with; 1). The intersection of the following specific areas, or simply one of these more nuanced areas; people coping with trauma, understanding and managing their neurodivergence, the LGBTQIA+ community, addressing sexual health and intimacy issues, and trans-friendly and knowledgeable healthcare. 2). Everyday client concerns like managing anxiety, low mood, or relationship challenges. 3). Healthcare professionals grappling with burnout symptoms or demanding standards associated with their careers. 4). Adult ADHD/ Autism assessments.
(03) 5905 7089 View (03) 5905 7089
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Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Counsellors

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.