Domestic Abuse Psychologists and Therapists in Frankston South, VIC

Deeva Richardson
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Frankston South, VIC 3199
Deeva is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Clinical Family and Couple’s Therapist and a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner. She has over 15 years of post- graduate experience specialising in individuals and families, trauma, attachment, grief and loss. Deeva works holistically with her clients, therefore always viewing an individual in the context of their family, social networks, community, society and culture. Deeva has a special interest in Attachment and Mindfulness-based therapies such as Somatic Experiencing, EMDR and Internal Family Systems and compliments this with evidence-based practices such as CBT, MBCT and ACT.
Deeva is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Clinical Family and Couple’s Therapist and a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner. She has over 15 years of post- graduate experience specialising in individuals and families, trauma, attachment, grief and loss. Deeva works holistically with her clients, therefore always viewing an individual in the context of their family, social networks, community, society and culture. Deeva has a special interest in Attachment and Mindfulness-based therapies such as Somatic Experiencing, EMDR and Internal Family Systems and compliments this with evidence-based practices such as CBT, MBCT and ACT.
(03) 5907 5538 View (03) 5907 5538
Are you navigating the exhausting aftermath of trauma and relational wounds? You might feel caught in repeating relationship patterns or trapped by a persistent inner conflict—where one part of you wants to move forward, but another feels frozen in past hurts. I help you move forward by honoring every aspect of your story. Grounded in compassion and non-judgment, we explore root causes while actively building your inner core. Together, we safely process the past, transform your relationship with yourself, and break the cycles holding you back.
Are you navigating the exhausting aftermath of trauma and relational wounds? You might feel caught in repeating relationship patterns or trapped by a persistent inner conflict—where one part of you wants to move forward, but another feels frozen in past hurts. I help you move forward by honoring every aspect of your story. Grounded in compassion and non-judgment, we explore root causes while actively building your inner core. Together, we safely process the past, transform your relationship with yourself, and break the cycles holding you back.
0466 083 918 View 0466 083 918
Emily Bickerton
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Emily uses a range of treatment modalities, including EMDR 2.0, schema therapy, CBT, ACT and motivational interviewing. These treatments are used to address common concerns, such as PTSD and trauma-based difficulties, anxiety and depression, relationship problems, personality disorders, adjustment disorders and struggles associated with grief and loss. She has also developed an understanding of the unique challenges faced by people who have had contact with the Criminal Justice System. She offers support to those who are currently on Community Corrections Orders and their families.
Emily uses a range of treatment modalities, including EMDR 2.0, schema therapy, CBT, ACT and motivational interviewing. These treatments are used to address common concerns, such as PTSD and trauma-based difficulties, anxiety and depression, relationship problems, personality disorders, adjustment disorders and struggles associated with grief and loss. She has also developed an understanding of the unique challenges faced by people who have had contact with the Criminal Justice System. She offers support to those who are currently on Community Corrections Orders and their families.
(03) 7003 2713 View (03) 7003 2713
Waterfront Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
I love helping people to find their inner peace, to understand themselves enabling them to live a happy life and have happy relationships. I especially love helping men to become emotionally intelligent, to become better communicators, fathers and partners. I am experienced in couples counselling assisting my clients to see their situation through more enlightening and empowering perspectives; training couples and singles how to express vulnerability – i.e. feelings, needs and wants – in a constructive and authentic way; offering practical and down to earth advice.
I love helping people to find their inner peace, to understand themselves enabling them to live a happy life and have happy relationships. I especially love helping men to become emotionally intelligent, to become better communicators, fathers and partners. I am experienced in couples counselling assisting my clients to see their situation through more enlightening and empowering perspectives; training couples and singles how to express vulnerability – i.e. feelings, needs and wants – in a constructive and authentic way; offering practical and down to earth advice.
(08) 9126 9257 View (08) 9126 9257

More Therapists Nearby

Dr Rashika Perera Gomez
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Bayswater, VIC 3153
Focus areas include stress, bullying, third culture issues, domestic abuse, separation, parenting, postpartum, and life transitions.
I’m Dr Rashika Perera Gomez, Clinical Psychologist and founder of Open Mind Psych. I hold a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a PhD from the University of Melbourne, and have been in private practice since 2010. With over 15 years’ experience and a research background, I offer compassionate, evidence-based therapy for individuals and couples. I’ve worked at the University of Melbourne, Royal Children’s Hospital, Monash Medical Centre, and Foundation House. Sessions are available in Bayswater, Croydon (VIC), or via telehealth. Medicare, TAC, WorkCover, and Private clients accepted.
Focus areas include stress, bullying, third culture issues, domestic abuse, separation, parenting, postpartum, and life transitions.
I’m Dr Rashika Perera Gomez, Clinical Psychologist and founder of Open Mind Psych. I hold a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a PhD from the University of Melbourne, and have been in private practice since 2010. With over 15 years’ experience and a research background, I offer compassionate, evidence-based therapy for individuals and couples. I’ve worked at the University of Melbourne, Royal Children’s Hospital, Monash Medical Centre, and Foundation House. Sessions are available in Bayswater, Croydon (VIC), or via telehealth. Medicare, TAC, WorkCover, and Private clients accepted.
(03) 8413 7375 View (03) 8413 7375
SoulShine Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I support individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, complex trauma, relationship changes, family violence, stress, parenting challenges, and life transitions.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming, and it can be difficult to carry everything on your own. Having a space where you feel heard and understood can make a meaningful difference. I’m Sri, an ACA Level 2 registered counsellor and founder of SoulShine Counselling. I offer a supportive space to explore what you are going through at a pace that feels right for you. My approach is trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming, and grounded in respect, empathy, and collaboration. I provide counselling primarily in English, and can also offer sessions in Tamil, Kannada, and Hindi. Please reach out if you would like to explore counselling.
I support individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, complex trauma, relationship changes, family violence, stress, parenting challenges, and life transitions.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming, and it can be difficult to carry everything on your own. Having a space where you feel heard and understood can make a meaningful difference. I’m Sri, an ACA Level 2 registered counsellor and founder of SoulShine Counselling. I offer a supportive space to explore what you are going through at a pace that feels right for you. My approach is trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming, and grounded in respect, empathy, and collaboration. I provide counselling primarily in English, and can also offer sessions in Tamil, Kannada, and Hindi. Please reach out if you would like to explore counselling.
(03) 8771 4425 View (03) 8771 4425
Patricia Lewis
Psychotherapist, PsychD, ACA-L4
Online Only
Are you broken-hearted? Find hope and healing as you learn to love yourself again. Has trauma visited your life? Reclaim your life from the effects of hurt and pain and rediscover your hopes and dreams for a hope-filled future.
Are you broken-hearted? Find hope and healing as you learn to love yourself again. Has trauma visited your life? Reclaim your life from the effects of hurt and pain and rediscover your hopes and dreams for a hope-filled future.
(02) 9100 0165 View (02) 9100 0165
Fiona Cheung
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Vermont, VIC 3133
No matter your age or where you are in life, there are times when things can feel overwhelming or uncertain. I offer both in-person and online counselling to support you through these challenges. In our sessions, I aim to create a warm, safe, and non-judgmental space where you can speak openly and explore what’s been going on for you at your own pace. Whether you are dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, or family challenges, I am here to walk alongside you with care and empathy.
No matter your age or where you are in life, there are times when things can feel overwhelming or uncertain. I offer both in-person and online counselling to support you through these challenges. In our sessions, I aim to create a warm, safe, and non-judgmental space where you can speak openly and explore what’s been going on for you at your own pace. Whether you are dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, or family challenges, I am here to walk alongside you with care and empathy.
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Kat O'Mara
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
McKinnon, VIC 3204
I work with adults recovering from trauma, family dysfunction, and domestic or emotional abuse.
You’ve always been the one who holds it all together: for your children, your partner, your family. Now you’re quietly falling apart. Perhaps you’re coping with the pain of estrangement, the aftermath of a controlling or emotionally abusive relationship, or the exhaustion of trying to keep everyone else afloat while ignoring your own needs. On the outside, you seem capable; inside, you feel anxious, alone, or disconnected. The old strategies like perfectionism, people-pleasing and staying silent aren’t working anymore.
I work with adults recovering from trauma, family dysfunction, and domestic or emotional abuse.
You’ve always been the one who holds it all together: for your children, your partner, your family. Now you’re quietly falling apart. Perhaps you’re coping with the pain of estrangement, the aftermath of a controlling or emotionally abusive relationship, or the exhaustion of trying to keep everyone else afloat while ignoring your own needs. On the outside, you seem capable; inside, you feel anxious, alone, or disconnected. The old strategies like perfectionism, people-pleasing and staying silent aren’t working anymore.
(03) 7500 5605 View (03) 7500 5605
Karen Sri Thomas
Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
1 Endorsed
South Yarra, VIC 3141
Sometimes memories of family violence or childhood abuse can further complicate your situation, making you feel isolated and disconnected from others.
As an experienced, trauma-informed, psychotherapist, I help clients connect with their emotional & psychological needs, and attune deeply and holistically with themselves and what they're going through. You'll be supported in pausing & listening to your whole self moment-by-moment, at a pace that's right for you, and in experiential, bodily ways.
Sometimes memories of family violence or childhood abuse can further complicate your situation, making you feel isolated and disconnected from others.
As an experienced, trauma-informed, psychotherapist, I help clients connect with their emotional & psychological needs, and attune deeply and holistically with themselves and what they're going through. You'll be supported in pausing & listening to your whole self moment-by-moment, at a pace that's right for you, and in experiential, bodily ways.
(03) 7500 5598 View (03) 7500 5598
Trudy Cahill
Counsellor, ACA-L1
1 Endorsed
Hampton Park, VIC 3976
I'm here to help you heal from trauma or abuse, support child development and parenting, strengthen relationships, guide ASD parenting, and walk with you through grief, bereavement or domestic violence recovery.
I help people experiencing emotional distress, trauma or grief, or striving to create a nurturing home amid complex family dynamics. You may feel overwhelmed, uncertain and longing for relief. You need to reduce distress, improve communication, build confidence, resilience and stronger relationships. You want practical strategies, gentle insights and compassionate guidance that honours your experience and empowers you to find balance, hope and meaning. We work at your pace. You may also be supporting loved ones with autism or ADHD; together we tailor routines and coping tools to reclaim wellbeing and connection.
I'm here to help you heal from trauma or abuse, support child development and parenting, strengthen relationships, guide ASD parenting, and walk with you through grief, bereavement or domestic violence recovery.
I help people experiencing emotional distress, trauma or grief, or striving to create a nurturing home amid complex family dynamics. You may feel overwhelmed, uncertain and longing for relief. You need to reduce distress, improve communication, build confidence, resilience and stronger relationships. You want practical strategies, gentle insights and compassionate guidance that honours your experience and empowers you to find balance, hope and meaning. We work at your pace. You may also be supporting loved ones with autism or ADHD; together we tailor routines and coping tools to reclaim wellbeing and connection.
(03) 8771 5552 View (03) 8771 5552
Emma Baxter
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
South Melbourne, VIC 3205
• Understanding of emotional and physical abuse with coercive control • Explicit support for low or no contact decisions • Client paced, trauma informed care
I work with adults whose lives have been shaped by abusive family systems or controlling relationships. Many of the people I support grew up in environments where their needs were ignored, minimised, or punished, or they have found themselves in relationships marked by emotional harm, manipulation, or coercive control. My approach to counselling is trauma informed, compassionate, and grounded in respect for your autonomy. I believe healing comes from being supported to understand what has happened. Over time, these experiences can deeply impact self trust, boundaries, and the ability to feel safe in relationships
• Understanding of emotional and physical abuse with coercive control • Explicit support for low or no contact decisions • Client paced, trauma informed care
I work with adults whose lives have been shaped by abusive family systems or controlling relationships. Many of the people I support grew up in environments where their needs were ignored, minimised, or punished, or they have found themselves in relationships marked by emotional harm, manipulation, or coercive control. My approach to counselling is trauma informed, compassionate, and grounded in respect for your autonomy. I believe healing comes from being supported to understand what has happened. Over time, these experiences can deeply impact self trust, boundaries, and the ability to feel safe in relationships
0428 258 701 x61 View 0428 258 701 x61
Space Wellness (NSW) - Stef Morgan
Counsellor, ACA-L1
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Do you feel somewhat stuck? Perhaps overwhelm, physical pain or yearning for something different? Maybe you'd simply like to do better? Why not consider a coupling of counselling, clinical hypnotherapy and strategic psychotherapy? Unaware, you may be running outdated patterns which are at odds with the YOU of today, making it difficult to navigate and effect change. I use permissive Ericksonian hypnotherapy (particularly the Gordian Pillars) to uncover well-worn patterns of stuckness, then gently infuse the subconscious with alternate options. Safe, effective, gentle and life-changing.
Do you feel somewhat stuck? Perhaps overwhelm, physical pain or yearning for something different? Maybe you'd simply like to do better? Why not consider a coupling of counselling, clinical hypnotherapy and strategic psychotherapy? Unaware, you may be running outdated patterns which are at odds with the YOU of today, making it difficult to navigate and effect change. I use permissive Ericksonian hypnotherapy (particularly the Gordian Pillars) to uncover well-worn patterns of stuckness, then gently infuse the subconscious with alternate options. Safe, effective, gentle and life-changing.
(02) 5566 2525 View (02) 5566 2525
Enrei Counselling
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, trauma, grief or identity struggles? You don’t have to face it alone. I’m Audrey, the counsellor behind Enrei Counselling, providing trauma-informed, culturally sensitive support to adults across Australia. Together, we’ll create a safe, compassionate space to gently explore your emotions and attachment experiences. Through deepening emotional awareness, we’ll heal relational wounds, strengthen your connections, and build emotional resilience. You can expect greater emotional insight, healing from past hurts, practical tools for managing anxiety and grief, and support that honours your identity.
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, trauma, grief or identity struggles? You don’t have to face it alone. I’m Audrey, the counsellor behind Enrei Counselling, providing trauma-informed, culturally sensitive support to adults across Australia. Together, we’ll create a safe, compassionate space to gently explore your emotions and attachment experiences. Through deepening emotional awareness, we’ll heal relational wounds, strengthen your connections, and build emotional resilience. You can expect greater emotional insight, healing from past hurts, practical tools for managing anxiety and grief, and support that honours your identity.
(02) 5133 6270 View (02) 5133 6270
Elizabeth Fuentes
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Online Only
NOW accepting NEW clients & HAVE availability "I am passionate about helping people live more purposeful lives. I use a warm and empathic therapist style, with a practical focus on collaboratively helping my clients move towards meaningful and achievable goals" Areas I am passionate to work with: Anxiety Disorders such as Social Phobia & Panic Disorder, Depression and Low self-esteem, Trauma and PTSD, Work/Life stressors, Self- improvement, Assertiveness and effective communication skills, Adjustment issues, Grief and loss, Interpersonal and family difficulties.
NOW accepting NEW clients & HAVE availability "I am passionate about helping people live more purposeful lives. I use a warm and empathic therapist style, with a practical focus on collaboratively helping my clients move towards meaningful and achievable goals" Areas I am passionate to work with: Anxiety Disorders such as Social Phobia & Panic Disorder, Depression and Low self-esteem, Trauma and PTSD, Work/Life stressors, Self- improvement, Assertiveness and effective communication skills, Adjustment issues, Grief and loss, Interpersonal and family difficulties.
(07) 2100 4956 View (07) 2100 4956
Guided Hope Counselling
Counsellor, PACFA
Online Only
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of helping clients work through a variety of concerns, including stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, and intimacy-related issues.
I’m here to support you. I utilize various therapeutic approaches, including the Internal Family System (IFS), Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Client-Centered Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma-Focused Therapy.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of helping clients work through a variety of concerns, including stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, and intimacy-related issues.
I’m here to support you. I utilize various therapeutic approaches, including the Internal Family System (IFS), Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Client-Centered Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma-Focused Therapy.
(03) 4150 1216 View (03) 4150 1216
Ofra Ronen
Counsellor
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You may look like you're holding it together. Inside, it's a different story. My clients carry a low hum of tension that never quite switches off. Or they brace for the moment someone finally gets tired of them, never fully letting their guard down. Or they live with a quieter difficulty: a persistent feeling something is fundamentally wrong with them that others can see and they cannot fix. Many have tried other approaches. Too distant, too clinical, too focused on symptoms without touching what is underneath. You don't need the right words. You need to arrive willing to look.
You may look like you're holding it together. Inside, it's a different story. My clients carry a low hum of tension that never quite switches off. Or they brace for the moment someone finally gets tired of them, never fully letting their guard down. Or they live with a quieter difficulty: a persistent feeling something is fundamentally wrong with them that others can see and they cannot fix. Many have tried other approaches. Too distant, too clinical, too focused on symptoms without touching what is underneath. You don't need the right words. You need to arrive willing to look.
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Karolina Krysinska
Psychotherapist, PhD, PACFA
Carlton, VIC 3053
I am a Gestalt and couples psychotherapist with a background in psychology and 25 years of experience in the field of mental health. My work is based on respectful exploration of client’s experience in the here and now, including our ongoing psychotherapy relationship. We look together at patterns of emotional reactions and behaviours, new (yet) unfamiliar ways of being oneself and being with others, and possibilities for change and growth. My interest in Gestalt and couples psychotherapy reflects my passion for a deeper understanding of psychological and emotional well-being and satisfactory human relationships.
I am a Gestalt and couples psychotherapist with a background in psychology and 25 years of experience in the field of mental health. My work is based on respectful exploration of client’s experience in the here and now, including our ongoing psychotherapy relationship. We look together at patterns of emotional reactions and behaviours, new (yet) unfamiliar ways of being oneself and being with others, and possibilities for change and growth. My interest in Gestalt and couples psychotherapy reflects my passion for a deeper understanding of psychological and emotional well-being and satisfactory human relationships.
(03) 8595 5359 View (03) 8595 5359
Melissa Jane Moss
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Caulfield South, VIC 3162
Finding a therapist who can deeply attune to you and creatively integrate approaches that truly align with your needs can be really hard. It often takes energy from every part of your life- especially when you’re already running on empty. I want to reassure you that I understand, both professionally and personally, just how crucial this stage is. That’s why I’ve made it a priority to ensure this part of the process feels as welcoming and informative as possible. ​
Finding a therapist who can deeply attune to you and creatively integrate approaches that truly align with your needs can be really hard. It often takes energy from every part of your life- especially when you’re already running on empty. I want to reassure you that I understand, both professionally and personally, just how crucial this stage is. That’s why I’ve made it a priority to ensure this part of the process feels as welcoming and informative as possible. ​
(03) 7003 2037 View (03) 7003 2037
Ruku Srivastava
Psychologist
Doncaster, VIC 3108
Ruku’s areas of interest: Anxiety and anxiety-related issues, Trauma and PTSD, Intergenerational trauma, Cultural issues, Depression, ADHD support, Stress management and burnout, Self-Esteem/Self-confidence and Family/ Domestic Violence.
Ruku is passionate about working with clients from a diverse range of cultural, social and economic backgrounds. Her practice is empathetic, culturally responsive and trauma informed. She has extensive experience in community and welfare settings and is able to provide psychological assessment and treatment for a wide range of issues. Ruku uses Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Solution-focused therapy and Mindfulness-based interventions to assist individuals to achieve their goals and increase overall wellbeing. Ruku can provide therapy in English and Hindi.
Ruku’s areas of interest: Anxiety and anxiety-related issues, Trauma and PTSD, Intergenerational trauma, Cultural issues, Depression, ADHD support, Stress management and burnout, Self-Esteem/Self-confidence and Family/ Domestic Violence.
Ruku is passionate about working with clients from a diverse range of cultural, social and economic backgrounds. Her practice is empathetic, culturally responsive and trauma informed. She has extensive experience in community and welfare settings and is able to provide psychological assessment and treatment for a wide range of issues. Ruku uses Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Solution-focused therapy and Mindfulness-based interventions to assist individuals to achieve their goals and increase overall wellbeing. Ruku can provide therapy in English and Hindi.
(03) 8771 4030 View (03) 8771 4030
Domestic Abuse Therapists
What are the most effective ways to recover from domestic abuse?
Leaving an abusive relationship requires tremendous courage, so survivors in treatment should recognise that they have already completed the most important step. Still, the trauma of physical or emotional abuse can be difficult to process and overcome. Therapy can help survivors process trauma, grief, and difficult emotions, treat relevant mental health symptoms, and create a new framework for boundaries and relationships in the future. For some, support groups can also be an invaluable outlet for healing.

When should an individual seek help for domestic abuse?
Victims of intimate partner violence should seek help immediately. It can take substantial time, planning, energy, and courage to leave an abusive relationship, but starting the process—by seeking therapy, calling the domestic violence hotline, or simply confiding in a loved one—will help them get there. Those who have left abusive relationships but haven’t sought treatment can also greatly benefit from therapy to process and heal from the experience.

What are the consequences of staying in an abusive relationship?
Remaining in an abusive relationship has serious repercussions. In addition to the ongoing threat of physical danger and emotional abuse, research shows that intimate partner violence is associated with a range of mental health disorders including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and substance abuse. Therefore it’s important for individuals in an abusive relationship to seek help as soon as possible.

How can you get domestic abuse treatment for someone else?
It can be very complicated to identify and leave an abusive relationship; barriers include the threat of violence, financial instability, and family pressures. Those concerned about a loved one in an abusive relationship should talk to them about the situation, provide them with resources such as the domestic violence hotline, and introduce the idea of seeing a therapist due to their concern for the person’s safety and well-being.