Women's Issues Psychologists and Therapists in Forest Hill, VIC

Photo of Mira Chazan, Social Worker, AASW
Mira Chazan
Social Worker, AASW
Forest Hill, VIC 3131
Trauma and ongoing stress can leave survival energy stuck in the nervous system. We may adapt by seeking or avoiding certain situations, or hold tension to protect ourselves from difficult feelings and sensations. While these strategies once helped us cope and survive, they can also leave us feeling trapped and disconnected. I work by joining with you with sensitivity and compassion, to bring gentle awareness and support to underlying patterns, without pressure to force change. At your pace, we create the conditions for the nervous system to gradually settle and reorganise, allowing inner security, vitality and connection to emerge.
Trauma and ongoing stress can leave survival energy stuck in the nervous system. We may adapt by seeking or avoiding certain situations, or hold tension to protect ourselves from difficult feelings and sensations. While these strategies once helped us cope and survive, they can also leave us feeling trapped and disconnected. I work by joining with you with sensitivity and compassion, to bring gentle awareness and support to underlying patterns, without pressure to force change. At your pace, we create the conditions for the nervous system to gradually settle and reorganise, allowing inner security, vitality and connection to emerge.
(03) 9070 5249 View (03) 9070 5249
Photo of Dr Danielle Orton-Lachlan, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Dr Danielle Orton-Lachlan
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Danielle offers individual therapy and is passionate about working with young adults and adults with ASD and/or ADHD. Danielle’s approach is trauma-informed and neuroaffirming. She has a special interest in working with neurodivergent adults diagnosed later in life. Danielle lives in a neurodivergent household and understands the challenges that exist at both an individual and family level. Consequently, she also has a passion for supporting parents and carers. Danielle is completing Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) training with her best pal, Shelby the Golden, joining her soon in the counselling room!
Danielle offers individual therapy and is passionate about working with young adults and adults with ASD and/or ADHD. Danielle’s approach is trauma-informed and neuroaffirming. She has a special interest in working with neurodivergent adults diagnosed later in life. Danielle lives in a neurodivergent household and understands the challenges that exist at both an individual and family level. Consequently, she also has a passion for supporting parents and carers. Danielle is completing Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) training with her best pal, Shelby the Golden, joining her soon in the counselling room!
(03) 8203 5244 View (03) 8203 5244
Photo of Emma Gyeonghyang Song, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Emma Gyeonghyang Song
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Serves Area
Melbourne Counsellor in English and Korean (멜번한국심리상담사), multi-cultural couples 부부, 관계, anger, anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, EAP: Employment Assisstance Program:직장인심리상담, , VOCAT: Victim of Crime 피해자보상, 가정폭력. I am an engaging and client-centred counsellor and specialise in providing effective therapeutic support to multicultural background Asian migrants. I tailor sessions to meet the uniquely personal needs and circumstances of each client . I help my clients to focus on what they would like to be different in their lives. Hoped-for outcomes are explored, and immediate steps taken to change or manage any issues and concerns.
Melbourne Counsellor in English and Korean (멜번한국심리상담사), multi-cultural couples 부부, 관계, anger, anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, EAP: Employment Assisstance Program:직장인심리상담, , VOCAT: Victim of Crime 피해자보상, 가정폭력. I am an engaging and client-centred counsellor and specialise in providing effective therapeutic support to multicultural background Asian migrants. I tailor sessions to meet the uniquely personal needs and circumstances of each client . I help my clients to focus on what they would like to be different in their lives. Hoped-for outcomes are explored, and immediate steps taken to change or manage any issues and concerns.
(03) 9069 9451 View (03) 9069 9451
Photo of Petra van Vliet, Social Worker, AMHSW
Petra van Vliet
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
The foundation of my counselling is social-justice, compassion and integrity. I am an accredited mental health social worker with over 30 years' experience in clinical mental health settings, community palliative care & aged care. I offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprogramming), Acceptance Commitment Therapy and Narrative Therapy. I work from a trauma-informed framework which incorporates Attachment theory, Schema Theory and IFS.
The foundation of my counselling is social-justice, compassion and integrity. I am an accredited mental health social worker with over 30 years' experience in clinical mental health settings, community palliative care & aged care. I offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprogramming), Acceptance Commitment Therapy and Narrative Therapy. I work from a trauma-informed framework which incorporates Attachment theory, Schema Theory and IFS.
(03) 8203 5194 View (03) 8203 5194
Photo of Tim McCorriston - Laburnum Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Laburnum Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
At Laburnum Psychology we have sixteen psychologists. Due to the diversity in our team, we are well positioned to find the right person for you. We specialise across a broad range of issues, including depression, anxiety, life adjustment, trauma and children's issues, relationships, stress, work stress, to name a few. We can conduct cognitive, educational and developmental assessments & reports. We have psychologists who work with children and adolescents, as well as people who work with adults and the elderly. We can also work under NDIS, TAC and WorkCover funded arrangements. We are linked to most health insurance schemes.
At Laburnum Psychology we have sixteen psychologists. Due to the diversity in our team, we are well positioned to find the right person for you. We specialise across a broad range of issues, including depression, anxiety, life adjustment, trauma and children's issues, relationships, stress, work stress, to name a few. We can conduct cognitive, educational and developmental assessments & reports. We have psychologists who work with children and adolescents, as well as people who work with adults and the elderly. We can also work under NDIS, TAC and WorkCover funded arrangements. We are linked to most health insurance schemes.
(03) 9068 5884 View (03) 9068 5884

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Naomi Apai, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Naomi Apai
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Online Only
Many women reach a point where anxiety, stress, responsibilities and life transitions start to feel overwhelming. You might be holding everything together on the outside while feeling anxious, exhausted or unsure how to move forward. If you’re looking for a compassionate space to explore your thoughts and emotions, you’re in the right place. I work with women experiencing anxiety, stress, burnout, relationship challenges and major life transitions. Together we can explore what’s happening beneath the surface and begin to make sense of patterns that may be leaving you feeling overwhelmed or stuck.
Many women reach a point where anxiety, stress, responsibilities and life transitions start to feel overwhelming. You might be holding everything together on the outside while feeling anxious, exhausted or unsure how to move forward. If you’re looking for a compassionate space to explore your thoughts and emotions, you’re in the right place. I work with women experiencing anxiety, stress, burnout, relationship challenges and major life transitions. Together we can explore what’s happening beneath the surface and begin to make sense of patterns that may be leaving you feeling overwhelmed or stuck.
(02) 5017 3018 View (02) 5017 3018
Photo of Amy Wanschers, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Amy Wanschers
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Collingwood, VIC 3066
My ideal client is an adult or older adolescent who brings long‑running relationship patterns, the lingering impact of childhood trauma, or chronic low mood and wants deeper, lasting change; they’re tired of repeating the same outcomes and ready to understand the origins of their reactions rather than just manage symptoms. They need a safe, non‑judgemental space, a clear formulation that links past experiences to present problems, and practical skills they can use between sessions. Their goals are to reduce shame and reactivity, build secure, reciprocal relationships, stabilise mood and daily routines, and develop boundaries.
My ideal client is an adult or older adolescent who brings long‑running relationship patterns, the lingering impact of childhood trauma, or chronic low mood and wants deeper, lasting change; they’re tired of repeating the same outcomes and ready to understand the origins of their reactions rather than just manage symptoms. They need a safe, non‑judgemental space, a clear formulation that links past experiences to present problems, and practical skills they can use between sessions. Their goals are to reduce shame and reactivity, build secure, reciprocal relationships, stabilise mood and daily routines, and develop boundaries.
0481 851 371 View 0481 851 371
Photo of Alpha Ponce, Psychotherapist, MA
Alpha Ponce
Psychotherapist, MA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Somatic trauma-informed therapist. Have you experienced complex or single trauma, and feel it’s holding you back from living your best life? I specialise in helping individuals who feel “stuck,” are hyper-vigilant, overthink, lack confidence, fear rejection, struggle with self-worth, feel deeply or numb, experience relationship challenges, dissociation, shame, guilt, chronic illnesses, or ADHD. I can guide you toward greater self-confidence, self-assurance, happiness, connection with your Authentic Self, and healthier relationships enhancing your quality of life and empowering you to achieve your goals. Please Email me.
Somatic trauma-informed therapist. Have you experienced complex or single trauma, and feel it’s holding you back from living your best life? I specialise in helping individuals who feel “stuck,” are hyper-vigilant, overthink, lack confidence, fear rejection, struggle with self-worth, feel deeply or numb, experience relationship challenges, dissociation, shame, guilt, chronic illnesses, or ADHD. I can guide you toward greater self-confidence, self-assurance, happiness, connection with your Authentic Self, and healthier relationships enhancing your quality of life and empowering you to achieve your goals. Please Email me.
(07) 2100 4837 View (07) 2100 4837
Photo of Livia Cremona-Bellizia, Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Livia Cremona-Bellizia
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Williamstown, VIC 3016
Livia is a warm and compassionate clinical psychologist dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's mental health challenges. She has a special interest in supporting adults during the perinatal period, as well as those dealing with depression, anxiety, and trauma. Through a collaborative approach, Livia works with clients to clarify their motivations and goals, ensuring that therapy remains focused, meaningful, and aligned with their personal growth.
Livia is a warm and compassionate clinical psychologist dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's mental health challenges. She has a special interest in supporting adults during the perinatal period, as well as those dealing with depression, anxiety, and trauma. Through a collaborative approach, Livia works with clients to clarify their motivations and goals, ensuring that therapy remains focused, meaningful, and aligned with their personal growth.
(03) 9069 9744 View (03) 9069 9744
Photo of Kirsten Cottone
Kirsten Cottone
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I help women find clarity, confidence and contentment. If you're finding yourself stuck in a rut, at a cross-roads, anxious, overwhelmed, having relationship issues, lacking confidence, questioning your career or anything else that is having a negative impact on your life, I can help. Let's work together to create the life you really want to live.
I help women find clarity, confidence and contentment. If you're finding yourself stuck in a rut, at a cross-roads, anxious, overwhelmed, having relationship issues, lacking confidence, questioning your career or anything else that is having a negative impact on your life, I can help. Let's work together to create the life you really want to live.
(07) 4085 9097 View (07) 4085 9097
Photo of Maria Crowley, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Maria Crowley
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Serves Area
An Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, with over 20yrs of experience as a therapist, currently working in private practice. Workcover registered, offering Medicare rebates and in the EAP space, for employees and their families. Previous experience includes working for government, with victims of domestic violence and with families on child protection orders. I also have experience working in the community, with refugees, homelessness, youth, families and couples. My practice actively includes working with LGBTQIA+ communities. This has included but is not limited to: bullying/ discrimination, relationship and identity issues.
An Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, with over 20yrs of experience as a therapist, currently working in private practice. Workcover registered, offering Medicare rebates and in the EAP space, for employees and their families. Previous experience includes working for government, with victims of domestic violence and with families on child protection orders. I also have experience working in the community, with refugees, homelessness, youth, families and couples. My practice actively includes working with LGBTQIA+ communities. This has included but is not limited to: bullying/ discrimination, relationship and identity issues.
(07) 2100 4863 View (07) 2100 4863
Photo of Esther Ogilvie, MSc
Esther Ogilvie
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carlton North, VIC 3054
Do you suffer from unprocessed trauma or feel stuck, anxious, depressed? Are you experiencing sex or gender identity issues, interpersonal struggles or emotional dysregulation? This includes relationships with fear, self-doubt, shame and guilt, and major life transitions. Through our sessions you will see a change in your nervous system and emotional regulation, self-awareness of patterns and behaviours, self-compassion and a larger vitality for life. I offer support for individuals and couples experiencing relationship challenges particularly ethical non monogamy and kink. Couples will experience a new found sense of understanding.
Do you suffer from unprocessed trauma or feel stuck, anxious, depressed? Are you experiencing sex or gender identity issues, interpersonal struggles or emotional dysregulation? This includes relationships with fear, self-doubt, shame and guilt, and major life transitions. Through our sessions you will see a change in your nervous system and emotional regulation, self-awareness of patterns and behaviours, self-compassion and a larger vitality for life. I offer support for individuals and couples experiencing relationship challenges particularly ethical non monogamy and kink. Couples will experience a new found sense of understanding.
View
Photo of Frossa Mrakas, Social Worker, AMHSW
Frossa Mrakas
Social Worker, AMHSW
Surrey Hills, VIC 3127
Hi lovely, Have you recently received a diagnosis of ADHD and feeling overwhelmed or perhaps relieved and wanting to talk through where to from here? Working with women with at diagnosis of ADHD later in life is my passion and I am here to help. Have you discovered your ADHD later in life? You're not alone. Many women are only now learning what they've lived with for years. But here's the powerful truth: a late diagnosis doesn’t mean it’s too late to thrive. With professional and lived experience I offer a non judgemental neuro affirming space to help you unlock the many positives and strengths that come with ADHD.
Hi lovely, Have you recently received a diagnosis of ADHD and feeling overwhelmed or perhaps relieved and wanting to talk through where to from here? Working with women with at diagnosis of ADHD later in life is my passion and I am here to help. Have you discovered your ADHD later in life? You're not alone. Many women are only now learning what they've lived with for years. But here's the powerful truth: a late diagnosis doesn’t mean it’s too late to thrive. With professional and lived experience I offer a non judgemental neuro affirming space to help you unlock the many positives and strengths that come with ADHD.
(03) 8771 4297 View (03) 8771 4297
Photo of Eleanor Crowther, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Eleanor Crowther
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
My passion is working with clients that are seeking to enhance their self-understanding and relationship with their bodies. They may face challenges such as eating disorders, body dysmorphia, or body image concerns. Additionally, they might be navigating women's health issues like Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder or perinatal mental health challenges, or are exploring their gender, sexuality, or identity within the LGBTQIA+ community. I also have experience working with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship concerns and general life stressors.
My passion is working with clients that are seeking to enhance their self-understanding and relationship with their bodies. They may face challenges such as eating disorders, body dysmorphia, or body image concerns. Additionally, they might be navigating women's health issues like Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder or perinatal mental health challenges, or are exploring their gender, sexuality, or identity within the LGBTQIA+ community. I also have experience working with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship concerns and general life stressors.
View
Photo of Lorraine Ann Marsh - Mindheart Therapy, Social Worker
Mindheart Therapy
Social Worker
Belgrave South, VIC 3160
My name is Lorraine Marsh, and if you have found your way here, then maybe you are looking for a different way to live your life. Have you lost a sense of your authentic self? What dreams have you let go of? Maybe you have never been encouraged to want something just for yourself? What are your intrinsic values? Would you like to understand thought and relationship patterns that no longer serve you? How can you rediscover what you love and to learn new skills to thrive? When was the last time you thought about what you wanted and took action to get it?
My name is Lorraine Marsh, and if you have found your way here, then maybe you are looking for a different way to live your life. Have you lost a sense of your authentic self? What dreams have you let go of? Maybe you have never been encouraged to want something just for yourself? What are your intrinsic values? Would you like to understand thought and relationship patterns that no longer serve you? How can you rediscover what you love and to learn new skills to thrive? When was the last time you thought about what you wanted and took action to get it?
(03) 5909 9829 View (03) 5909 9829
Photo of Pira Marshall, Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
Pira Marshall
Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I’m a dedicated and compassionate psychotherapist. I offer a warm, non-judgmental and empathetic space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences at your own pace. My approach is person-centred and integrative, informed by psychodynamic therapy. That means I’ll meet you where you are, while also gently helping you make sense of patterns, emotions, and relationship experiences that may be shaping how you feel and cope day to day. Emotional wellbeing and stress Low mood, worry and overwhelm Life transitions and adjustment Relationship concerns and communication Neurodivergence and disability
I’m a dedicated and compassionate psychotherapist. I offer a warm, non-judgmental and empathetic space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences at your own pace. My approach is person-centred and integrative, informed by psychodynamic therapy. That means I’ll meet you where you are, while also gently helping you make sense of patterns, emotions, and relationship experiences that may be shaping how you feel and cope day to day. Emotional wellbeing and stress Low mood, worry and overwhelm Life transitions and adjustment Relationship concerns and communication Neurodivergence and disability
(03) 4237 8272 View (03) 4237 8272
Photo of Coralie Ponsinet, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Coralie Ponsinet
Counsellor, ACA-L1
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am an authentic and bubbly French-Australian human who made the decision to become a counsellor after my own lived experiences of mental and physical health struggles. Born in rural France, where none ever talked about mental health, I began my adult life as a high-achieving corporate professional who believed the only approach to life’s problems was to “get on with it” and just find a way to keep going. Until I realised this didn’t actually work effectively or wholeheartedly and discovered that mental health is a real, normal, valid part of being a human. I now walk the talk and value my physical, mental, emotional health.
I am an authentic and bubbly French-Australian human who made the decision to become a counsellor after my own lived experiences of mental and physical health struggles. Born in rural France, where none ever talked about mental health, I began my adult life as a high-achieving corporate professional who believed the only approach to life’s problems was to “get on with it” and just find a way to keep going. Until I realised this didn’t actually work effectively or wholeheartedly and discovered that mental health is a real, normal, valid part of being a human. I now walk the talk and value my physical, mental, emotional health.
(03) 7003 2464 View (03) 7003 2464
Photo of Susanne McAllister, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Susanne McAllister
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Brunswick, VIC 3056
You might be the strong one. Capable, high‑functioning, the one everyone leans on. But inside you feel anxious, wired, and tired of holding it all together. You overthink conversations, over‑give in relationships, and question yourself afterward. Maybe you reach for wine, food, or constant busyness just to take the edge off. You may have experienced trauma, grief, or a narcissistic relationship that shook your sense of safety. You want to feel calm, secure, and at home in yourself again, in your relationships, and in your body.
You might be the strong one. Capable, high‑functioning, the one everyone leans on. But inside you feel anxious, wired, and tired of holding it all together. You overthink conversations, over‑give in relationships, and question yourself afterward. Maybe you reach for wine, food, or constant busyness just to take the edge off. You may have experienced trauma, grief, or a narcissistic relationship that shook your sense of safety. You want to feel calm, secure, and at home in yourself again, in your relationships, and in your body.
(03) 7003 2035 View (03) 7003 2035
Photo of Allana Crespin, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Allana Crespin
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Sandringham, VIC 3191
Many of the people I work with are thoughtful, insightful individuals who are used to holding things together — often for everyone else. Despite this, they feel overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in patterns that keep repeating. Some are navigating relationship challenges or life transitions, while others are in the perinatal period, adjusting to pregnancy, early parenthood, or fertility difficulties. They’re often seeking a deeper understanding of themselves and a way to feel more grounded, connected, and in control.
Many of the people I work with are thoughtful, insightful individuals who are used to holding things together — often for everyone else. Despite this, they feel overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in patterns that keep repeating. Some are navigating relationship challenges or life transitions, while others are in the perinatal period, adjusting to pregnancy, early parenthood, or fertility difficulties. They’re often seeking a deeper understanding of themselves and a way to feel more grounded, connected, and in control.
(03) 8771 5454 View (03) 8771 5454
Photo of Julie Anders, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Julie Anders
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
As a holistic counsellor and psychotherapist, I support adults experiencing anxiety, overwhelm, navigating major life transitions and living with the legacies of trauma. I help people reconnect with their inner strengths and resources, and build a steadier, more grounded relationship with themselves and others. I also support adults through identity shifts and life transitions, including relationship changes, career shifts, becoming a parent, midlife and other periods of change. This also includes working with adults exploring a late-identified or late-diagnosed neurodivergent identity, including ADHD, Autism and AuDHD.
As a holistic counsellor and psychotherapist, I support adults experiencing anxiety, overwhelm, navigating major life transitions and living with the legacies of trauma. I help people reconnect with their inner strengths and resources, and build a steadier, more grounded relationship with themselves and others. I also support adults through identity shifts and life transitions, including relationship changes, career shifts, becoming a parent, midlife and other periods of change. This also includes working with adults exploring a late-identified or late-diagnosed neurodivergent identity, including ADHD, Autism and AuDHD.
(02) 4306 7106 View (02) 4306 7106
Women's Issues Therapists
How do you encourage a woman to go to therapy?
It’s helpful to express concern and love for the person while framing therapy as a tool for improving their life. Offering specific examples of how an individual may be suffering, and what effects it has on them, should be done with compassion and with empathy. It may be useful to devise a game plan—breaking the process down into parts, such as finding a therapist, making appointments, and looking into insurance coverage.

How can women prepare for therapy?
Women can prepare for therapy by being willing to talk about their past experiences and their private thoughts. Before a session, an individual may want to reflect on how they’ve felt since the last session and what’s happened in their lives. Between sessions, it can be useful to write down notes about their reaction to a given event or how they felt at a particular time.

How long does therapy for women’s issues often last?
As with any type of therapy, sessions depend on the individual and the challenges they face. Therapy types like Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), Prolonged exposure therapy (PET), and Eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR) can be brief, most often ranging from between 5 and 20 sessions. In some cases, such as for women with eating disorders, residential treatment may be recommended for an individual who is judged to be at high risk of self-harm. For any therapy, the duration will depend on the progress made and results realised.

How can women overcome stigma around specific challenges in order to seek therapy?
Women dealing with domestic abuse, sexual assault, eating disorders, and any other number of troubles may feel a stigma around seeking help. It’s important to remember that these issues are not uncommon and there is no shame in getting help for them. Therapy is confidential, and women can talk about their experiences without fear of judgment. Seeking therapy can be a courageous and liberating act, and an important step toward healing and recovery.