Transgender Psychologists and Therapists in Footscray, VIC

Photo of Sorcha Yelland, Counsellor, MA, AThR
Sorcha Yelland
Counsellor, MA, AThR
Footscray, VIC 3011
I'm Sorcha, an Art Therapist and Counselor who works with adults, adolescents, children and families. I use somatic, expressive and trauma-informed approaches to growth and healing. I use both talk therapy as well as art therapy: using drawing, painting, ceramics, textiles poetry, creative writing, and other modalities to assist with emotional expression, the exploration of inner worlds and accessing flow states. My approach is client-centered, I shape treatments collaboratively with my clients. I believe in using the systematic and structural to understand distress trauma, and conflict.
I'm Sorcha, an Art Therapist and Counselor who works with adults, adolescents, children and families. I use somatic, expressive and trauma-informed approaches to growth and healing. I use both talk therapy as well as art therapy: using drawing, painting, ceramics, textiles poetry, creative writing, and other modalities to assist with emotional expression, the exploration of inner worlds and accessing flow states. My approach is client-centered, I shape treatments collaboratively with my clients. I believe in using the systematic and structural to understand distress trauma, and conflict.
(03) 8338 4196 View (03) 8338 4196
Photo of Mish Kumar-Jonson, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Mish Kumar-Jonson
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
1 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 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 max p castle, Counsellor, ACA-L1
max p castle
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Serves Area
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.
My practice is grounded in a belief that healing is relational and change is possible. I am deeply curious about what pain tells us about our values and our experiences of harm and injustice. I can support you to make meaning of your experiences, integrate the lessons and let go of what is no longer serving you.
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.
My practice is grounded in a belief that healing is relational and change is possible. I am deeply curious about what pain tells us about our values and our experiences of harm and injustice. I can support you to make meaning of your experiences, integrate the lessons and let go of what is no longer serving you.
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Photo of Cristiona Guiney, Social Worker, AASW
Cristiona Guiney
Social Worker, AASW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I live with chronic pain, autism, ADHD and lived experience of suicidality, anxiety, depression and being a transgender queer person.
I offer counselling informed by lived experience perspectives, mindful self-compassion and my own lived and living experience. I help clients work through sudden life changes, coming out and exploring gender, learning to live alongside suicidality, chronic pain and neurodivergence.
I live with chronic pain, autism, ADHD and lived experience of suicidality, anxiety, depression and being a transgender queer person.
I offer counselling informed by lived experience perspectives, mindful self-compassion and my own lived and living experience. I help clients work through sudden life changes, coming out and exploring gender, learning to live alongside suicidality, chronic pain and neurodivergence.
(03) 8338 1788 View (03) 8338 1788
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 Safaa Hakim, Counsellor, PACFA
Safaa Hakim
Counsellor, PACFA
Serves Area
I am compassionate about guiding my clients to explore their difficulties and strengthen their emotional wellbeing. I provide specific counselling in the areas of anxiety, stress, depression, and relationships; as well as behavioural and other cognitive issues, offering a wide range of counselling support to meet the needs of clients and an organisation’s employees.
I am compassionate about guiding my clients to explore their difficulties and strengthen their emotional wellbeing. I provide specific counselling in the areas of anxiety, stress, depression, and relationships; as well as behavioural and other cognitive issues, offering a wide range of counselling support to meet the needs of clients and an organisation’s employees.
(03) 9034 5950 View (03) 9034 5950
Photo of Natalie Susan Burfurd - Heart and Hope Counselling, Social Worker, AMHSW
Heart and Hope Counselling
Social Worker, AMHSW
Footscray, VIC 3011
I provide counselling, therapy and social work services in both the Ballarat and Footscray areas as well as online. I provide supportive, empathic and flexible responses to individual needs, taking the body, mind and soul into consideration. I have over thirty years of counselling experience and have particular expertise in grief and loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, mental health issues and working with many other concerns. I am passionate about holding the hope and working from the heart as well as utilising diverse knowledge and skills. It is important to me that counselling is affordable to people who need it.
I provide counselling, therapy and social work services in both the Ballarat and Footscray areas as well as online. I provide supportive, empathic and flexible responses to individual needs, taking the body, mind and soul into consideration. I have over thirty years of counselling experience and have particular expertise in grief and loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, mental health issues and working with many other concerns. I am passionate about holding the hope and working from the heart as well as utilising diverse knowledge and skills. It is important to me that counselling is affordable to people who need it.
(03) 8658 2101 View (03) 8658 2101
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 Lua Bruckhoff - Calm Centre Therapy, Social Worker, MA, AASW
Calm Centre Therapy
Social Worker, MA, AASW
2 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 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 Callista Goh, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Callista Goh
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Footscray, VIC 3011
I am a queer, disabled, PoC reg. psychologist, dedicated to providing trauma-informed, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs & strengths. I am committed to fostering strong therapeutic relationships to help you lead a more authentic and fulfilling life. I understand how difficult it is to navigate the healthcare system & find the right therapist, especially if you are Neurodiverse, Queer, Gender Nonconforming, or from a Culturally Diverse background. I bring an intersectional lens to psychological care and use my lived & clinical experience to tailor my approach, with each individual's needs & unique context in mind.
I am a queer, disabled, PoC reg. psychologist, dedicated to providing trauma-informed, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs & strengths. I am committed to fostering strong therapeutic relationships to help you lead a more authentic and fulfilling life. I understand how difficult it is to navigate the healthcare system & find the right therapist, especially if you are Neurodiverse, Queer, Gender Nonconforming, or from a Culturally Diverse background. I bring an intersectional lens to psychological care and use my lived & clinical experience to tailor my approach, with each individual's needs & unique context in mind.
(02) 5016 3990 View (02) 5016 3990
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
Christina Pitter
Social Worker, MA, AASW
Serves Area
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.
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 Isy Stoner - Counselling and Somatics with Isy Stoner, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Counselling and Somatics with Isy Stoner
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Isy supports client's in feeling more connected, safe and inspired. In therapy Isy will hold space for you, and accompany you to navigate finding more ease and contentment in the face of challenges, change and conflict. Isy aims to equip clients with embodied skills for wellbeing and resilience. Isy holds the intention that over time, client's might feel less need for regular individual therapy, and instead hopes to help them access a diverse network of support in their lives.
Isy supports client's in feeling more connected, safe and inspired. In therapy Isy will hold space for you, and accompany you to navigate finding more ease and contentment in the face of challenges, change and conflict. Isy aims to equip clients with embodied skills for wellbeing and resilience. Isy holds the intention that over time, client's might feel less need for regular individual therapy, and instead hopes to help them access a diverse network of support in their lives.
0433 532 932 View 0433 532 932
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 Chrissie Borg - Chrissie's Creative Therapies, Counsellor, MA, AThR
Chrissie's Creative Therapies
Counsellor, MA, AThR
Serves Area
I work with children and adults of all ages, to develop self-regulation techniques, process trauma, connect with the deeper, hidden parts of self, explore lifes challenges from different perspectives, and to create gentle shifts in ways of thinking, feeling and being. We start individual or group arts therapy sessions, with a short guided meditation or self-regulation practices to settle into the space and bring your self into that present moment, as a way of creating space for our somatic, arts therapy session.
I work with children and adults of all ages, to develop self-regulation techniques, process trauma, connect with the deeper, hidden parts of self, explore lifes challenges from different perspectives, and to create gentle shifts in ways of thinking, feeling and being. We start individual or group arts therapy sessions, with a short guided meditation or self-regulation practices to settle into the space and bring your self into that present moment, as a way of creating space for our somatic, arts therapy session.
(03) 9007 2072 View (03) 9007 2072
Photo of Amanda D'Costa - AJ D'Costa Counselling , Counsellor, MA, PACFA
AJ D'Costa Counselling
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello, I'm AJ (Amanda), a Professional Counsellor of South Asian heritage based in Naarm/Melbourne, working in community health & private practice. Whether you're facing a specific challenge or wish to understand broader life patterns, I can provide kind, trauma-aware & evidence-based support for anxiety/panic attacks, depression, chronic stress, cultural/religious issues, self-esteem/body image concerns, substance dependency, chronic health conditions, LGBTQIA+ themes, life transitions, grief/bereavement & other challenges. Feel free to reach out for a free 15-minute consultation to see if my practice is a good fit for you.
Hello, I'm AJ (Amanda), a Professional Counsellor of South Asian heritage based in Naarm/Melbourne, working in community health & private practice. Whether you're facing a specific challenge or wish to understand broader life patterns, I can provide kind, trauma-aware & evidence-based support for anxiety/panic attacks, depression, chronic stress, cultural/religious issues, self-esteem/body image concerns, substance dependency, chronic health conditions, LGBTQIA+ themes, life transitions, grief/bereavement & other challenges. Feel free to reach out for a free 15-minute consultation to see if my practice is a good fit for you.
(03) 9909 8812 View (03) 9909 8812
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. Perhaps you’ve spent years masking, managing burnout, anxiety or low mood, complex family dynamics, or the push–pull of intimacy and independence. You want therapy that understands culture, eldest daughter intergenerational trauma, chronic illness and sensory needs; practical support with boundaries, communication, co-regulation and self-advocacy; and space to rethink attachment, explore identity, and rebuild after trauma.
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. Perhaps you’ve spent years masking, managing burnout, anxiety or low mood, complex family dynamics, or the push–pull of intimacy and independence. You want therapy that understands culture, eldest daughter intergenerational trauma, chronic illness and sensory needs; practical support with boundaries, communication, co-regulation and self-advocacy; and space to rethink attachment, explore identity, and rebuild after trauma.
0413 887 975 View 0413 887 975

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Transgender Therapists
As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?
A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.

What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?
Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.

How can I recognise a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?
An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognise a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.

How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?
Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.