Internal Family Systems (IFS) Psychologists and Therapists in Frankston South, VIC

Deeva Richardson
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Frankston South, VIC 3199
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.
She uses creative approaches such as movement, music and art to support people in connecting with their resources, regulating their nervous system and healing the wounds of stress and trauma.
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.
She uses creative approaches such as movement, music and art to support people in connecting with their resources, regulating their nervous system and healing the wounds of stress and trauma.
(03) 5907 5538 View (03) 5907 5538
Melissa Rowe
Social Worker, AASW
Frankston South, VIC 3199
Evidence-based therapy that considers the whole person At Mindmap Connections, we offer personalised counselling that respects the uniqueness of each individual. Our work is grounded in evidence-based therapy and a whole-person perspective, recognising that mental health is shaped by both internal experiences and life circumstances. When beneficial, we collaborate with trusted practitioners to provide coordinated support, ensuring you receive care that reflects your full situation — not just symptoms. We exist to move mental health care beyond guesswork.
Evidence-based therapy that considers the whole person At Mindmap Connections, we offer personalised counselling that respects the uniqueness of each individual. Our work is grounded in evidence-based therapy and a whole-person perspective, recognising that mental health is shaped by both internal experiences and life circumstances. When beneficial, we collaborate with trusted practitioners to provide coordinated support, ensuring you receive care that reflects your full situation — not just symptoms. We exist to move mental health care beyond guesswork.
(03) 5907 1174 View (03) 5907 1174
I specialize in trauma and relational treatment, offering an integrative blend of depth-oriented Psychodynamic therapy and transformative "parts work" ( IFS & Ego States).
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.
I specialize in trauma and relational treatment, offering an integrative blend of depth-oriented Psychodynamic therapy and transformative "parts work" ( IFS & Ego States).
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
Jacqui Snooks
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
I am a qualified IAT (Integrative Attachment Therapy) therapist which specialises in adult attachment repair. Attachment repair effectively treats anxious, avoidant and disorganised attachment in adults, helping clients to achieve inner security, relationship satisfaction, and emotional well-being.​ I use a combination of emotional, cognitive and somatic therapeutic approaches in my work, because not everyone is the same, and I find as a therapist I need a variety of tools in my kit to meet the unique needs of each client.
I am a qualified IAT (Integrative Attachment Therapy) therapist which specialises in adult attachment repair. Attachment repair effectively treats anxious, avoidant and disorganised attachment in adults, helping clients to achieve inner security, relationship satisfaction, and emotional well-being.​ I use a combination of emotional, cognitive and somatic therapeutic approaches in my work, because not everyone is the same, and I find as a therapist I need a variety of tools in my kit to meet the unique needs of each client.
(08) 9126 9430 View (08) 9126 9430
Kerryn Knight
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
Hi I'm Kerryn Knight, Clinical Counsellor, Sandtray Therapist and Masters Qualified Art Therapist with over 17 years of experience. At Empowered Art Therapy within Kindred Art Space, I combine creative therapies with traditional psychotherapy to support your mental health and wellbeing. My approach is particularly effective if you are dealing with anxiety, depression, and transitions in life, helping you find clarity and a renewed sense of purpose.
Hi I'm Kerryn Knight, Clinical Counsellor, Sandtray Therapist and Masters Qualified Art Therapist with over 17 years of experience. At Empowered Art Therapy within Kindred Art Space, I combine creative therapies with traditional psychotherapy to support your mental health and wellbeing. My approach is particularly effective if you are dealing with anxiety, depression, and transitions in life, helping you find clarity and a renewed sense of purpose.
(03) 9068 5278 View (03) 9068 5278
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
Vanessa M Preston
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
Hello:-) You've probably read 12 bios at this point and all the words are running together or sound the same. Or you're flicking thru photos of clinicians hoping that will give you clarity on who will be a good fit. I get it. "Therapist shopping" can be hard and overwhelming. And chances are if you're searching, you're struggling with something. Maybe I can offer a compassionate and safe enough space to help. I'm Vanessa. I'm a mental health social worker and qualified therapist with 20 years of experience. I am genuinely invested in supporting my clients to make sustainable changes in their lives.
Hello:-) You've probably read 12 bios at this point and all the words are running together or sound the same. Or you're flicking thru photos of clinicians hoping that will give you clarity on who will be a good fit. I get it. "Therapist shopping" can be hard and overwhelming. And chances are if you're searching, you're struggling with something. Maybe I can offer a compassionate and safe enough space to help. I'm Vanessa. I'm a mental health social worker and qualified therapist with 20 years of experience. I am genuinely invested in supporting my clients to make sustainable changes in their lives.
(03) 5906 7997 View (03) 5906 7997

More Therapists Nearby

Heba Bendak
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Preston, VIC 3072
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Clinical Psychologist who is passionate about supporting individuals of all ages and walks of life. I specialise in helping those who feel overwhelmed by past trauma, struggle with emotional regulation, or face challenges such as grief, anxiety, depression, or relationship and attachment difficulties. Many of my clients are also navigating neurodiversity, existential questions, or working to change intergenerational patterns. Together, we focus on healing, restoring a sense of control, building emotional awareness, and fostering self-compassion and healthy boundaries.
I am a Clinical Psychologist who is passionate about supporting individuals of all ages and walks of life. I specialise in helping those who feel overwhelmed by past trauma, struggle with emotional regulation, or face challenges such as grief, anxiety, depression, or relationship and attachment difficulties. Many of my clients are also navigating neurodiversity, existential questions, or working to change intergenerational patterns. Together, we focus on healing, restoring a sense of control, building emotional awareness, and fostering self-compassion and healthy boundaries.
(03) 7302 8098 View (03) 7302 8098
Cate Simpson
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
I utilise a 'parts' or 'Internal Family Systems' approach to trauma therapy.
I specialise in working with people who have experienced Trauma and Anxiety. Many of my clients have difficulty in managing emotions and personal relationships and may have been diagnosed with Complex Trauma, Dissociative disorders or BPD but people also come to see me for many other reasons as well. Some of the the other concerns that I see clients for on a regular basis include Depression, Anxiety, Relationship concerns and Grief and Loss. I've been around for a while and worked in a diverse range of areas including community mental health, Youth, suicide/self harm programs, sexual assault and LGBTQIA .
I utilise a 'parts' or 'Internal Family Systems' approach to trauma therapy.
I specialise in working with people who have experienced Trauma and Anxiety. Many of my clients have difficulty in managing emotions and personal relationships and may have been diagnosed with Complex Trauma, Dissociative disorders or BPD but people also come to see me for many other reasons as well. Some of the the other concerns that I see clients for on a regular basis include Depression, Anxiety, Relationship concerns and Grief and Loss. I've been around for a while and worked in a diverse range of areas including community mental health, Youth, suicide/self harm programs, sexual assault and LGBTQIA .
(08) 7078 8218 View (08) 7078 8218
Desi Karalis
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Online Only
Life can be overwhelming, and sometimes we all need support to navigate challenges, gain clarity, and find a way forward. As a psychologist with over 19 years experience, I provide compassionate, evidence-based counselling to help individuals manage stress, low mood, anxiety, menopause, life transitions, burnout, low self-esteem, and emotional and mental well-being.
Life can be overwhelming, and sometimes we all need support to navigate challenges, gain clarity, and find a way forward. As a psychologist with over 19 years experience, I provide compassionate, evidence-based counselling to help individuals manage stress, low mood, anxiety, menopause, life transitions, burnout, low self-esteem, and emotional and mental well-being.
(08) 7100 9284 View (08) 7100 9284
Tracey Alder Therapy
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3004
This is not the life you wanted. You are not the person you hoped to become. Your choices and decisions prevent any relief from the constant, nagging anxiety that disrupts your sleep and impacts your health. It may be that the damage of a difficult upbringing is still causing sustained harm to your present relationships, and your all-important sense of self. But whatever the root cause of your suffering, it's always so much harder to overcome alone. I'm here to support you in that struggle as we work to understand and address your unhappiness in a safe, constructive, trauma-informed space.
This is not the life you wanted. You are not the person you hoped to become. Your choices and decisions prevent any relief from the constant, nagging anxiety that disrupts your sleep and impacts your health. It may be that the damage of a difficult upbringing is still causing sustained harm to your present relationships, and your all-important sense of self. But whatever the root cause of your suffering, it's always so much harder to overcome alone. I'm here to support you in that struggle as we work to understand and address your unhappiness in a safe, constructive, trauma-informed space.
(03) 7003 2789 View (03) 7003 2789
Accessible Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Online Only
I specialise in trauma therapy and supporting neurodiverse individuals, integrating CBT, EMDR, Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Schema Therapy.
I believe the most effective therapy happens when you feel heard, respected, and actively involved in your own care. You know yourself better than anyone else, and my role is to work alongside you, helping you understand patterns, build practical skills, and move towards the life you want using evidence-based approaches tailored to your goals. Through Accessible Psychology, I provide Australia-wide telehealth, increasing access to quality mental health care for people in remote communities and for those who find face-to-face appointments difficult, overwhelming, or impractical.
I specialise in trauma therapy and supporting neurodiverse individuals, integrating CBT, EMDR, Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Schema Therapy.
I believe the most effective therapy happens when you feel heard, respected, and actively involved in your own care. You know yourself better than anyone else, and my role is to work alongside you, helping you understand patterns, build practical skills, and move towards the life you want using evidence-based approaches tailored to your goals. Through Accessible Psychology, I provide Australia-wide telehealth, increasing access to quality mental health care for people in remote communities and for those who find face-to-face appointments difficult, overwhelming, or impractical.
0466 329 626 View 0466 329 626
Jo Cartledge
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Online Only
My approach is collaborative and compassionate, using ACT, CBT, IFS, and mindfulness-based therapies.
I provide online counselling and telehealth therapy for adults and couples across Australia. I support people experiencing grief, anxiety, emotional overwhelm, and relationship difficulties to improve emotional regulation, strengthen connection, and manage daily life more effectively, including NDIS participants.
My approach is collaborative and compassionate, using ACT, CBT, IFS, and mindfulness-based therapies.
I provide online counselling and telehealth therapy for adults and couples across Australia. I support people experiencing grief, anxiety, emotional overwhelm, and relationship difficulties to improve emotional regulation, strengthen connection, and manage daily life more effectively, including NDIS participants.
(02) 8403 2225 View (02) 8403 2225
Samantha Taffe
Social Worker, MSc, AMHSW
Brunswick, VIC 3056
I’m trained in IFS (Level 1, 2 & 3), EMDR and DBT.
Professional Trainings - 2025 IFS Level 3, 2025- Program Assistant Level 1 IFS Training, 2024- EMDR Level 1 and 2 -2023- IFS Level 2 (Addictions and Eating Disorders), 2021- IFS Level 1, 2020- Comprehensive DBT, 2017 - Level 1 Schema Therapy
I’m trained in IFS (Level 1, 2 & 3), EMDR and DBT.
Professional Trainings - 2025 IFS Level 3, 2025- Program Assistant Level 1 IFS Training, 2024- EMDR Level 1 and 2 -2023- IFS Level 2 (Addictions and Eating Disorders), 2021- IFS Level 1, 2020- Comprehensive DBT, 2017 - Level 1 Schema Therapy
(03) 4422 4836 View (03) 4422 4836
Dr Markus Lorbergs
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Middle Park, VIC 3206
With 10+ years of experience, I offer a flexible, integrative approach using CBT, EMDR, IFS, and attachment-based methods.
I work with those seeking deeper self-understanding, healing from past experiences, and meaningful personal growth. They may struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, or relationship challenges and want to break free from unhelpful patterns. They seek a safe, supportive space to explore their emotions, build self-awareness, and develop strategies for lasting well-being. Whether they’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected, they want guidance that’s flexible, holistic, and tailored to their needs—helping them move toward a more fulfilling, balanced life.
With 10+ years of experience, I offer a flexible, integrative approach using CBT, EMDR, IFS, and attachment-based methods.
I work with those seeking deeper self-understanding, healing from past experiences, and meaningful personal growth. They may struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, or relationship challenges and want to break free from unhelpful patterns. They seek a safe, supportive space to explore their emotions, build self-awareness, and develop strategies for lasting well-being. Whether they’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected, they want guidance that’s flexible, holistic, and tailored to their needs—helping them move toward a more fulfilling, balanced life.
0405 862 256 View 0405 862 256
Shaista Waqar
Counsellor, PhD, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Life can feel overwhelming when navigating major changes, relationship challenges, past experiences, or the complexities of living between cultures. You may feel uncertain about your identity, belonging, or how to move forward. I offer a warm, compassionate, and culturally responsive space where you can explore your experiences, reconnect with your strengths, and create meaningful change. With over 20 years in mental health, I support individuals, couples, and families from diverse backgrounds, especially migrants and multicultural communities. My humanistic and collaborative approach honors your unique story, values, and goals.
Life can feel overwhelming when navigating major changes, relationship challenges, past experiences, or the complexities of living between cultures. You may feel uncertain about your identity, belonging, or how to move forward. I offer a warm, compassionate, and culturally responsive space where you can explore your experiences, reconnect with your strengths, and create meaningful change. With over 20 years in mental health, I support individuals, couples, and families from diverse backgrounds, especially migrants and multicultural communities. My humanistic and collaborative approach honors your unique story, values, and goals.
(02) 5944 5752 View (02) 5944 5752
Neurogenesis Clinical Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Cheltenham, VIC 3192
I utilise a range of therapies depending on your needs from behavioural therapies like DBT to trauma focused therapies and am a Certified IFS level 1 therapist.
Accepting New Clients ! - Jaclyn is a Clinical psychologist and aims to provide therapy with a difference. Our work together will be person focused and beautifully supportive however this will be a therapeutic approach to see transformation! I have a focus on intervention; my patients come to me because they want to see change and are tired of talking about their week on loop; so, whilst our work together may be hard and sometimes very challenging, with support together we will make that change that you have been waiting to achieve.
I utilise a range of therapies depending on your needs from behavioural therapies like DBT to trauma focused therapies and am a Certified IFS level 1 therapist.
Accepting New Clients ! - Jaclyn is a Clinical psychologist and aims to provide therapy with a difference. Our work together will be person focused and beautifully supportive however this will be a therapeutic approach to see transformation! I have a focus on intervention; my patients come to me because they want to see change and are tired of talking about their week on loop; so, whilst our work together may be hard and sometimes very challenging, with support together we will make that change that you have been waiting to achieve.
View
Daniel Demellis
Social Worker, AMHSW
Fitzroy, VIC 3065
Daniel is an integrative practitioner and draws from a range of evidence-based psychotherapeutic approaches – including Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), and Internal Family Systems Therapy ( IFS).
Good Therapy is founded by Daniel Demellis (he/him), an AASW Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with postgraduate studies in a Master of Social Work. Daniel is a queer-identifying psychotherapist and brings seven years of experience in providing clinical mental health support to adults from many walks of life. Daniel seeks to harness the therapy relationship as a vehicle in supporting people to make sense of overwhelming experiences, navigate psychological and relational patterns, and ultimately, to foster a greater sense of wellbeing.
Daniel is an integrative practitioner and draws from a range of evidence-based psychotherapeutic approaches – including Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), and Internal Family Systems Therapy ( IFS).
Good Therapy is founded by Daniel Demellis (he/him), an AASW Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with postgraduate studies in a Master of Social Work. Daniel is a queer-identifying psychotherapist and brings seven years of experience in providing clinical mental health support to adults from many walks of life. Daniel seeks to harness the therapy relationship as a vehicle in supporting people to make sense of overwhelming experiences, navigate psychological and relational patterns, and ultimately, to foster a greater sense of wellbeing.
(03) 7042 9961 View (03) 7042 9961
Care For Your Mind
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
At Care For Your Mind we care about connection and understand the driver of lasting change is determined by the strength of the therapeutic relationship. Care For Your Mind is a private practice located in Central Victoria in two locations; Bendigo and Castlemaine providing counselling and psychological assessments to adults, young people, children and their families. We work with a range of mental health presentations.
At Care For Your Mind we care about connection and understand the driver of lasting change is determined by the strength of the therapeutic relationship. Care For Your Mind is a private practice located in Central Victoria in two locations; Bendigo and Castlemaine providing counselling and psychological assessments to adults, young people, children and their families. We work with a range of mental health presentations.
(03) 4422 2180 View (03) 4422 2180
Clare O'Bree
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Windsor, VIC 3181
I am trained in Internal Family Systems therapy which allows in depth exploration of the various "parts" that make up our internal experience, facilitating integration and healing.
My therapeutic work holds at its core, a valuing of relationships, and a deep respect for individual life stories. Whatever concern brings you to therapy, my approach will be to collaborate with you sensitively and attentively so that we can move towards deeper understanding of what really matters to you. Through this intricate and attuned process, we can discover what you need in order to experience relief and a greater sense of how to move forward.
I am trained in Internal Family Systems therapy which allows in depth exploration of the various "parts" that make up our internal experience, facilitating integration and healing.
My therapeutic work holds at its core, a valuing of relationships, and a deep respect for individual life stories. Whatever concern brings you to therapy, my approach will be to collaborate with you sensitively and attentively so that we can move towards deeper understanding of what really matters to you. Through this intricate and attuned process, we can discover what you need in order to experience relief and a greater sense of how to move forward.
0413 874 330 View 0413 874 330
Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists
What is Internal Family Systems therapy?
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a type of talk therapy that focuses on sub-personalities, or “families,” within a person, which may be made up of wounded parts and unpleasant emotions like anger and shame. These sub-personalities can come into conflict with each other and with an individual’s core Self, leaving the person feeling detached from positive traits such as the “8 C’s” of confidence, calmness, creativity, clarity, curiosity, courage, compassion, and connectedness. By healing a patient’s wounded parts, a therapist aims to restore balance and bring on positive change.

How does Internal Family Systems therapy work?
An IFS therapist will work with a patient to identify their particular sub-personalities, recognize the emotions powering them, and release them. By doing so, the patient should become more able to address any underlying problems their sub-personalities may have been trying to protect them from. Ultimately, a patient discovers ways to manage internal and external conflicts on their own, through techniques such as relaxation exercises, journaling, and making charts depicting the relationships between their core Self and their distinct parts.

Does Internal Family Systems therapy work?
IFS therapy has been shown to help people address conditions such as depression, anxiety, panic, fears and phobias, trauma, and substance use disorders. Some research has also found that it can help individuals deal with symptoms of physical health conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, such as pain, everyday functioning, depressive feelings, and low self-compassion. There are some conditions for which IFS treatment, specifically discussions of one’s “parts,” may be less appropriate, such as schizophrenia or other states that involve psychosis or paranoia.

How long does Internal Family Systems therapy take?
As with most forms of talk therapy, there is no set duration or end point for IFS therapy. After becoming comfortable with a therapist and the core concepts of IFS, some patients quickly make progress. While experiences vary, most will find that it is a relatively longer-term therapy, involving months and sometimes years of sessions.