Sexual Abuse Psychologists and Therapists in Footscray, VIC

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 Talya Samuell, Counsellor, AMHSW
Talya Samuell
Counsellor, AMHSW
Footscray, VIC 3011
Together, we can work out how to move forward with care and curiosity. I can hold space for you during life transitions and times when life feels stuck. I am trained in Internal Family Systems and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, as well as other approaches — because one size doesn't fit all. We use what works for you. All of these approaches are grounded in compassion and help you understand yourself more deeply, so you can move forward and live a more conscious, ease-filled life. I offer a rebate with my service under a mentalHealth Care Plan.
Together, we can work out how to move forward with care and curiosity. I can hold space for you during life transitions and times when life feels stuck. I am trained in Internal Family Systems and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, as well as other approaches — because one size doesn't fit all. We use what works for you. All of these approaches are grounded in compassion and help you understand yourself more deeply, so you can move forward and live a more conscious, ease-filled life. I offer a rebate with my service under a mentalHealth Care Plan.
(03) 8338 4542 View (03) 8338 4542
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 Cindy Melksham, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Cindy Melksham
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Footscray, VIC 3011
Clients often come to me feeling stuck in anxiety, self-doubt, or overwhelmed by past experiences. Many struggle with performance anxiety, social anxiety, or confidence issues that affect school, work, relationships, or public speaking. I work with people who are ready to go beyond talk therapy to overcome their challenges and create opportunities. Using a trauma-informed, brain-body approach, including techniques such as Brainspotting and EFT tapping, I help teens and adults regulate their nervous system, process underlying experiences, and build lasting confidence so they can move forward with greater ease.
Clients often come to me feeling stuck in anxiety, self-doubt, or overwhelmed by past experiences. Many struggle with performance anxiety, social anxiety, or confidence issues that affect school, work, relationships, or public speaking. I work with people who are ready to go beyond talk therapy to overcome their challenges and create opportunities. Using a trauma-informed, brain-body approach, including techniques such as Brainspotting and EFT tapping, I help teens and adults regulate their nervous system, process underlying experiences, and build lasting confidence so they can move forward with greater ease.
0448 512 199 View 0448 512 199
Photo of Lua Bruckhoff - Calm Centre Therapy, Social Worker, MA, AASW
Calm Centre Therapy
Social Worker, MA, AASW
1 Endorsed
Footscray, VIC 3011
I work with people who are feeling lost in life, burnt out or anxious, who might be questioning their identity or gender, navigating grief, relationship issues and life changes. I know that reaching out for help is hard but you don't have to hold these things alone. I’m Lua (she/her) a queer, bicultural therapist (persian/german). I offer a space that is LGBTQIA+ affirming & culturally responsive, honouring the many layers that have shaped how you relate to yourself and others. Together, we’ll make space for all parts of you and map out a way forward that feels meaningful to you.
I work with people who are feeling lost in life, burnt out or anxious, who might be questioning their identity or gender, navigating grief, relationship issues and life changes. I know that reaching out for help is hard but you don't have to hold these things alone. I’m Lua (she/her) a queer, bicultural therapist (persian/german). I offer a space that is LGBTQIA+ affirming & culturally responsive, honouring the many layers that have shaped how you relate to yourself and others. Together, we’ll make space for all parts of you and map out a way forward that feels meaningful to you.
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Photo of Michelle Phan, Social Worker, MA
Michelle Phan
Social Worker, MA
1 Endorsed
Footscray, VIC 3011
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker who supports clients throughout their reproductive journeys and the challenges that may arise along the way. I am passionate about empowering people to make informed reproductive choices and helping them navigate infertility, birth trauma, perinatal loss (including stillbirth, miscarriage, and termination), abortion grief, adoption, perinatal mental health concerns, and the transition to parenthood. I work hard to cultivate a trusting, authentic, and collaborative therapeutic relationship to support meaningful and sustainable treatment goals.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker who supports clients throughout their reproductive journeys and the challenges that may arise along the way. I am passionate about empowering people to make informed reproductive choices and helping them navigate infertility, birth trauma, perinatal loss (including stillbirth, miscarriage, and termination), abortion grief, adoption, perinatal mental health concerns, and the transition to parenthood. I work hard to cultivate a trusting, authentic, and collaborative therapeutic relationship to support meaningful and sustainable treatment goals.
(03) 9958 8772 View (03) 9958 8772
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 Takeo Kameoka, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Takeo Kameoka
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Footscray, VIC 3011
I focus on addressing a range of challenges associated with depression, anxiety, relationship, identity exploration, ADHD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, attachment and trauma, and navigating life transitions, and I'm dedicated to providing personalised and compassionate care tailored to each participant’s unique needs.
I focus on addressing a range of challenges associated with depression, anxiety, relationship, identity exploration, ADHD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, attachment and trauma, and navigating life transitions, and I'm dedicated to providing personalised and compassionate care tailored to each participant’s unique needs.
(03) 8338 4427 View (03) 8338 4427
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 Kiri Tsalparos, Psychologist, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Kiri Tsalparos
Psychologist, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Serves Area
I am a Registered Psychologist and AHPRA Board-approved Supervisor with over 20 years’ experience across government and private sectors. I specialise in comprehensive psychological assessments, including ASD and ADHD assessments for children and adults, as well as cognitive assessments for NDIS and educational settings. I have also worked within Corrections Victoria and with Queensland Corrective Services, conducting risk assessments with sexual and violent offenders. I provide clear, evidence-based reports with practical recommendations to support meaningful outcomes.
I am a Registered Psychologist and AHPRA Board-approved Supervisor with over 20 years’ experience across government and private sectors. I specialise in comprehensive psychological assessments, including ASD and ADHD assessments for children and adults, as well as cognitive assessments for NDIS and educational settings. I have also worked within Corrections Victoria and with Queensland Corrective Services, conducting risk assessments with sexual and violent offenders. I provide clear, evidence-based reports with practical recommendations to support meaningful outcomes.
(03) 9000 0286 View (03) 9000 0286
Photo of Dimitri Hawa, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Dimitri Hawa
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Dimitri has significant experience providing psychotherapy with adults. Areas of expertise include relationship issues, grief, depression, anxiety, anger management, neurodiverse affirming (ADHD/ASD), and, facilitating the process of psychological recovery from trauma and complex trauma (i., e childhood/adult abuse issues, domestic violence, family dysfunction, childhood neglect). Dimitri has worked as a private practice over several years, school psychologist, Victims of Crime, Transport Accident Commission (TAC), NDIS disability work, along with previous experience in the provision of psychological support in prison settings.
Dimitri has significant experience providing psychotherapy with adults. Areas of expertise include relationship issues, grief, depression, anxiety, anger management, neurodiverse affirming (ADHD/ASD), and, facilitating the process of psychological recovery from trauma and complex trauma (i., e childhood/adult abuse issues, domestic violence, family dysfunction, childhood neglect). Dimitri has worked as a private practice over several years, school psychologist, Victims of Crime, Transport Accident Commission (TAC), NDIS disability work, along with previous experience in the provision of psychological support in prison settings.
(03) 9007 2339 View (03) 9007 2339
Christina Pitter
Social Worker, MA, AASW
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 Vanessa Del Valle - Vanessa Del Valle from Wellness & Co., Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Vanessa Del Valle from Wellness & Co.
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
2 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 Tigist Kebede, MA
Tigist Kebede
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
Photo of Cass Kozulin, Social Worker, AASW
Cass Kozulin
Social Worker, AASW
Serves Area
Hi I'm Cass! I am passionate about working with people to help create a happier and more fulfilled life. I believe that everyone has the potential create positive change despite adversity; we just need the tools to be able do so.
Hi I'm Cass! I am passionate about working with people to help create a happier and more fulfilled life. I believe that everyone has the potential create positive change despite adversity; we just need the tools to be able do so.
(03) 7003 2538 View (03) 7003 2538
Photo of Abbie Grace Couchman, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Abbie Grace Couchman
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I take a relaxed and collaborative approach to therapy and aim to create a space that feels warm, supportive, and genuine. Some people come to therapy with a specific issue they want help with; others are looking to understand longer-standing patterns in themselves or their relationships. I work both short-term and longer-term, and tailor therapy to what feels most helpful. My focus is on creating a safe and honest space where change can unfold at a pace that feels right.
I take a relaxed and collaborative approach to therapy and aim to create a space that feels warm, supportive, and genuine. Some people come to therapy with a specific issue they want help with; others are looking to understand longer-standing patterns in themselves or their relationships. I work both short-term and longer-term, and tailor therapy to what feels most helpful. My focus is on creating a safe and honest space where change can unfold at a pace that feels right.
0480 032 931 View 0480 032 931
Photo of 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 Briellen Beard, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Briellen Beard
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I offer warm, flexible, client-centred support with a blend of evidence-based approaches and a down-to-earth, collaborative style. I am passionate about offering neuro-diverse affirming, gender and sexuality affirming, and trauma-informed care.
I offer warm, flexible, client-centred support with a blend of evidence-based approaches and a down-to-earth, collaborative style. I am passionate about offering neuro-diverse affirming, gender and sexuality affirming, and trauma-informed care.
0403 957 071 View 0403 957 071
Photo of Monique Toohey, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Monique Toohey
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I have been providing psychological services & counselling to adults for nearly 3 decades. I am also a Gottman informed couple's therapist. Clients who love working with me are often growth and values-oriented, because I am strength and strategy focussed. I am very passionate about my work and have 28 years of experience working to enhance social, emotional and relationship wellbeing with people from an array of cultural and religious backgrounds.
I have been providing psychological services & counselling to adults for nearly 3 decades. I am also a Gottman informed couple's therapist. Clients who love working with me are often growth and values-oriented, because I am strength and strategy focussed. I am very passionate about my work and have 28 years of experience working to enhance social, emotional and relationship wellbeing with people from an array of cultural and religious backgrounds.
(03) 9034 6163 View (03) 9034 6163
Photo of Kyo Chung, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Kyo Chung
Counsellor, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
An intuitive and compassionate counsellor with over a decade of experience guiding individuals, couples, and families through complex emotional and relational challenges. My multicultural perspective, shaped by life experiences in Korea, China, and the USA, combined with professional expertise across diverse roles—as a community interpreter, counsellor, and family therapist—enables me to provide holistic and culturally sensitive support. I've helped many clients recover from narcissistic abuse to build healthy identity and resilience.
An intuitive and compassionate counsellor with over a decade of experience guiding individuals, couples, and families through complex emotional and relational challenges. My multicultural perspective, shaped by life experiences in Korea, China, and the USA, combined with professional expertise across diverse roles—as a community interpreter, counsellor, and family therapist—enables me to provide holistic and culturally sensitive support. I've helped many clients recover from narcissistic abuse to build healthy identity and resilience.
(03) 9068 5740 View (03) 9068 5740

See more therapy options for Footscray

Sexual Abuse Therapists
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.