Sexual Abuse Counselling in Footscray, VIC

Photo of Tigist Kebede, MA
Tigist Kebede
MA
Verified Verified
Serves Area
She has a history with working with racial trauma, sexual assault, family violence and refugee trauma.
Tigist is able to use a variety of therapy approaches, including Cognitive-Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Person Centred Therapy, Trauma Focused Therapy and Attachment theory. Through collaborative discussion and an understanding of her client’s needs, she provides inclusive and responsive care to people from a wide range of backgrounds.
She has a history with working with racial trauma, sexual assault, family violence and refugee trauma.
Tigist is able to use a variety of therapy approaches, including Cognitive-Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Person Centred Therapy, Trauma Focused Therapy and Attachment theory. Through collaborative discussion and an understanding of her client’s needs, she provides inclusive and responsive care to people from a wide range of backgrounds.
(03) 9001 5665 View (03) 9001 5665
Christina Pitter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AASW
Verified Verified
Serves Area
She has worked at the Centre Against Sexual Assault, Women’s Social Support Services (RWH), Pregnancy Advisory Services, the Foundation for Torture and Trauma and as a fertility counsellor with individuals and couples.
Christina has 20 years experience as a mental health social worker and psychotherapist. She works with people whose lives have been affected by childhood & adult trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family violence, and the impact of identity, family, ethnic and cultural issues on mental health. She has a special interest in supporting clients with chronic and physical health and disability issues. Christina hopes that through therapy, people can develop a greater awareness of their emotions, thoughts, strengths and goals and an overall improvement in their wellbeing and relationships with others.
She has worked at the Centre Against Sexual Assault, Women’s Social Support Services (RWH), Pregnancy Advisory Services, the Foundation for Torture and Trauma and as a fertility counsellor with individuals and couples.
Christina has 20 years experience as a mental health social worker and psychotherapist. She works with people whose lives have been affected by childhood & adult trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family violence, and the impact of identity, family, ethnic and cultural issues on mental health. She has a special interest in supporting clients with chronic and physical health and disability issues. Christina hopes that through therapy, people can develop a greater awareness of their emotions, thoughts, strengths and goals and an overall improvement in their wellbeing and relationships with others.
(02) 4504 0245 View (02) 4504 0245
Photo of Kimera Morgan, Counsellor, MSc, ACA-L3
Kimera Morgan
Counsellor, MSc, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
Online Only
Kimera is a registered counsellor and EMDR Practitioner who recognises that emotional and mental wellbeing are connected to various aspects of life including the quality of relationships, satisfaction experienced in work life, physical health, the dreams we have for our lives, and the self-belief to implement desired changes. In her work, Kimera takes a broader view, recognising the impact of capitalism, patriarchy, marginalisation, and how the social pressure of needing to do and be more, can impact mental health. Therefore, she values interconnectedness, compassion, acceptance, and nonjudgement in her therapeutic practice.
Kimera is a registered counsellor and EMDR Practitioner who recognises that emotional and mental wellbeing are connected to various aspects of life including the quality of relationships, satisfaction experienced in work life, physical health, the dreams we have for our lives, and the self-belief to implement desired changes. In her work, Kimera takes a broader view, recognising the impact of capitalism, patriarchy, marginalisation, and how the social pressure of needing to do and be more, can impact mental health. Therefore, she values interconnectedness, compassion, acceptance, and nonjudgement in her therapeutic practice.
(03) 7003 2909 View (03) 7003 2909
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 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 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 Asa Chen - Asa Chen LCSW, SEP, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Asa Chen LCSW, SEP, AMHSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Footscray, VIC 3011
I am a somatic psychotherapist and Licensed Clinical SW who works with people who live with complex mental health conditions and trauma symptoms, which may show up as syndromes like CFS or Fibromyalgia. My clients tend to have difficulty managing distressing and intense emotions, find it hard to stay present, and have a hard time fostering connection with others. They have usually experienced years of talk therapy (ie CBT, ACT, etc.) and still find themselves working hard to function. My aim is to work toward re-organising/regulating your physiology (which impacts your symptom expression) and increases your capacity/functioning.
I am a somatic psychotherapist and Licensed Clinical SW who works with people who live with complex mental health conditions and trauma symptoms, which may show up as syndromes like CFS or Fibromyalgia. My clients tend to have difficulty managing distressing and intense emotions, find it hard to stay present, and have a hard time fostering connection with others. They have usually experienced years of talk therapy (ie CBT, ACT, etc.) and still find themselves working hard to function. My aim is to work toward re-organising/regulating your physiology (which impacts your symptom expression) and increases your capacity/functioning.
0481 153 010 View 0481 153 010
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 Kim Dang - KD Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
KD Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Kim is a registered psychologist who is experienced in delivering individual counselling and psychotherapy, assessments, and report writing to diverse populations across the lifespan (adults, adolescents, children). She believes that every client is unique in their needs, goals, and life experiences and takes an individualised client-focused approach in her practice of psychology.
Kim is a registered psychologist who is experienced in delivering individual counselling and psychotherapy, assessments, and report writing to diverse populations across the lifespan (adults, adolescents, children). She believes that every client is unique in their needs, goals, and life experiences and takes an individualised client-focused approach in her practice of psychology.
0490 022 973 View 0490 022 973
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 Claudia Tania Rossi - Claudia Rossi Psychotherapist, Art Therapist AThR, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Claudia Rossi Psychotherapist, Art Therapist AThR
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a compassionate and creative Psychodynamic Psychotherapist & Art Psychotherapist, who is Jungian and Internal Family Systems (IFS) informed. Using an approach of creative curiosity, we will explore your story to understand outdated and limiting defences and behaviours, to develop conscious alternatives that better suit your current life. Unconscious patterns affect how we think, feel and act, inhibiting our ability to live fully and authentically. With over 25 years experience, I offer a gentle, supportive, flexible and creative approach to explore the deeper layers of your inner world, and move toward meaningful change.
I am a compassionate and creative Psychodynamic Psychotherapist & Art Psychotherapist, who is Jungian and Internal Family Systems (IFS) informed. Using an approach of creative curiosity, we will explore your story to understand outdated and limiting defences and behaviours, to develop conscious alternatives that better suit your current life. Unconscious patterns affect how we think, feel and act, inhibiting our ability to live fully and authentically. With over 25 years experience, I offer a gentle, supportive, flexible and creative approach to explore the deeper layers of your inner world, and move toward meaningful change.
(03) 8613 3404 View (03) 8613 3404
Photo of Sylvia Collinetti, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Sylvia Collinetti
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I have 25 years’ experience in public mental health and private practice. It is well established that the most important ingredient for any successful therapy is the therapeutic relationship which develops over time and helps you feel safe. I work with you to make sense of your unique story and the reasons you’re engaging in therapy. I start by understanding your early life experiences which impact your thinking patterns, emotions and behaviours from an emphatic and non-judgmental position. Therapy is embedded with compassion, tailored to meet your goals, from a strengths based position to empower your recovery journey.
I have 25 years’ experience in public mental health and private practice. It is well established that the most important ingredient for any successful therapy is the therapeutic relationship which develops over time and helps you feel safe. I work with you to make sense of your unique story and the reasons you’re engaging in therapy. I start by understanding your early life experiences which impact your thinking patterns, emotions and behaviours from an emphatic and non-judgmental position. Therapy is embedded with compassion, tailored to meet your goals, from a strengths based position to empower your recovery journey.
(03) 7003 2284 View (03) 7003 2284
Photo of Claire Naidoo, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Claire Naidoo
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My approach to working with clients is deeply rooted in empathy and warmth, creating a safe and compassionate space for exploration and growth. I believe in the power of authenticity, adapting my methods to suit each individual's unique needs and preferences. With a person-centered focus, I collaborate closely with clients to understand their story and guide them towards making meaningful changes and living a values-based life.
My approach to working with clients is deeply rooted in empathy and warmth, creating a safe and compassionate space for exploration and growth. I believe in the power of authenticity, adapting my methods to suit each individual's unique needs and preferences. With a person-centered focus, I collaborate closely with clients to understand their story and guide them towards making meaningful changes and living a values-based life.
(03) 9052 4365 View (03) 9052 4365
Photo of Vanessa Del Valle - Vanessa Del Valle from Wellness & Co., Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Vanessa Del Valle from Wellness & Co.
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Imagine feeling overwhelmed, lonely, unsupported, burdened by grief or mental health issues. These challenges can leave you feeling lost and stuck in your current circumstances. The goal is to find hope, purpose, and a healthier life. Vanessa Del Valle at Wellness & Co. understands these struggles and provides the support and guidance needed to navigate these challenges and emerge stronger.
Imagine feeling overwhelmed, lonely, unsupported, burdened by grief or mental health issues. These challenges can leave you feeling lost and stuck in your current circumstances. The goal is to find hope, purpose, and a healthier life. Vanessa Del Valle at Wellness & Co. understands these struggles and provides the support and guidance needed to navigate these challenges and emerge stronger.
(03) 7003 2935 View (03) 7003 2935
Photo of Casey Hosking, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Casey Hosking
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Online Only
Casey is genuinely interested in people’s stories and has a deep respect for each person’s individuality and autonomy. She is committed to providing a space where every person feels able to express themselves freely, one that fosters curiosity, openness and self-compassion. Her goal is to collaborate with her clients to create therapy goals that are both evidence-based and tailored to each person’s unique history, temperament, social and financial context, and hopes and desires for the future.
Casey is genuinely interested in people’s stories and has a deep respect for each person’s individuality and autonomy. She is committed to providing a space where every person feels able to express themselves freely, one that fosters curiosity, openness and self-compassion. Her goal is to collaborate with her clients to create therapy goals that are both evidence-based and tailored to each person’s unique history, temperament, social and financial context, and hopes and desires for the future.
(03) 9118 9067 View (03) 9118 9067
D & M Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
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 Dimitri Hawa, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Dimitri Hawa
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Dimitri has significant experience providing psychotherapy with adults. Areas of expertise include relationship issues, grief, depression, anxiety, anger management, neurodiverse challenges (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 challenges (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 Kiri Tsalparos, Psychologist, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Kiri Tsalparos
Psychologist, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a registered psychologist and AHPRA board approved supervisor. I have worked across both the government and private sectors for over 15 years. I am currently focussing on assessment work and have extensive experience in ASD assessment, ADHD assessment for both children and adults. I also conduct cognitive assessments for NDIS funding and within the the school system. I have also worked within the justice system with Corrections Victoria and QLD Corrections with sexual and violent offenders.
I am a registered psychologist and AHPRA board approved supervisor. I have worked across both the government and private sectors for over 15 years. I am currently focussing on assessment work and have extensive experience in ASD assessment, ADHD assessment for both children and adults. I also conduct cognitive assessments for NDIS funding and within the the school system. I have also worked within the justice system with Corrections Victoria and QLD Corrections with sexual and violent offenders.
(03) 9000 0286 View (03) 9000 0286
Photo of Monique Toohey, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Monique Toohey
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I have been providing psychological services & counselling to adults for over 2 decades. I am also a Gottman informed couple's therapist. Clients who love working with me are often growth and values oriented and strategy focussed because I am strength and strategy focussed. I am very passionate about my work and have 28 years of experience working with people from an array of cultural backgrounds navigating personal, familial and workplace relationships.
I have been providing psychological services & counselling to adults for over 2 decades. I am also a Gottman informed couple's therapist. Clients who love working with me are often growth and values oriented and strategy focussed because I am strength and strategy focussed. I am very passionate about my work and have 28 years of experience working with people from an array of cultural backgrounds navigating personal, familial and workplace relationships.
(03) 9034 6163 View (03) 9034 6163
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Sexual Abuse Counsellors

How do therapists treat sexual abuse?

A good therapist will be nonjudgmental and possibly demonstrate active listening, repeating back what the client says to show that they have understood. These skills allow people to feel comfortable discussing their traumatic experiences openly. Some important treatment goals are to restore a sense of safety and to rebuild confidence. In addition to working one-on-one with the patient, a therapist might bring in supportive family members to assist the client.

Do you have to talk extensively about sexual abuse in therapy?

Survivors frequently find it difficult to describe what happened to them out loud. They can even still be in a state of denial if the sexual abuse occurred recently. It is important for survivors to acknowledge that what happened isn’t their fault and to challenge and reappraise any unhealthy feelings or thoughts as they arise. Art therapy and play therapy are useful non-verbal means of communication for some survivors.

How long does treatment for sexual abuse take?

Recovery from sexual abuse can be a long and difficult process. Some survivors are able to move on naturally on their own, given time, while others require the guidance of a trained therapist. Therapy needs vary and can range from a few sessions to months or even years. Healing from sexual abuse takes time, and everyone’s journey will look a little different.

Can trauma symptoms caused by sexual abuse come back after treatment?

As occurs in many cases of trauma, survivors of sexual abuse may experience PTSD-like symptoms long after the abuse has ceased or after an initial round of treatment has occurred. In such a case, there is evidence that prolonged exposure therapy is a useful treatment for survivors, and may be more efficacious than supportive counseling alone. While triggers may continue to cause distress, the idea is that, with time and repeated exposure, their power will fade, allowing survivors to move on with their lives.