Family Therapy Psychologists and Therapists in Greater Melbourne (Metropolitan), VIC

Photo of Bharati L Susarla - BLS Counselling, Psychotherapist, PACFA
BLS Counselling
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Wheelers Hill, VIC 3150
Hi there. Are you feeling ok? Because if you are not, no matter what the problem might be, I am here to welcome you and spend time with you to listen to what you have to say. Together we can work through your current challenges and arrive at solutions that will work best for you. You deserve to live the happy and fulfilled life you desire. Give me a call for a free consultation and we can take it from there.
Hi there. Are you feeling ok? Because if you are not, no matter what the problem might be, I am here to welcome you and spend time with you to listen to what you have to say. Together we can work through your current challenges and arrive at solutions that will work best for you. You deserve to live the happy and fulfilled life you desire. Give me a call for a free consultation and we can take it from there.
(02) 4810 0678 View (02) 4810 0678
Photo of Natalia Burfurd, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Natalia Burfurd
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Footscray, VIC 3011
I work with a wide variety of issues. I am patient and empathic. I appreciate that change can occur quickly or slowly. I work in various locations around the city and western suburbs. I have over twenty years experience as a professional counsellor. I have obtained a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology/ Anthropology), a Graduate Diploma in Loss and Grief Counselling, a Diploma of Learning Solutions in Counselling, a Master of Social Work (Qualifying), a Graduate Certificate in Disability and Inclusion and a Master of Mental Health. I am passionate about growth, change and healing.
I work with a wide variety of issues. I am patient and empathic. I appreciate that change can occur quickly or slowly. I work in various locations around the city and western suburbs. I have over twenty years experience as a professional counsellor. I have obtained a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology/ Anthropology), a Graduate Diploma in Loss and Grief Counselling, a Diploma of Learning Solutions in Counselling, a Master of Social Work (Qualifying), a Graduate Certificate in Disability and Inclusion and a Master of Mental Health. I am passionate about growth, change and healing.
(08) 9126 9460 x045072 View (08) 9126 9460 x045072
Photo of Sean Renehan, Social Worker, AMHSW
Sean Renehan
Social Worker, AMHSW
Brunswick East, VIC 3057
I work with warmth and curiosity to help develop a deeper understanding of your concern and make sense of why particular patterns might be causing distress. I work from an understanding that many of life's concerns stem from our past experiences in relationships and the structural difficulties that are present in our society. I endeavor to understand peoples experience and distress through the context in which they live. I believe that the more we can understand the fixed patterns we find ourselves stuck in, the greater chance we have of learning to live in more meaningful ways. I offer supervision, individual and couples therapy.
I work with warmth and curiosity to help develop a deeper understanding of your concern and make sense of why particular patterns might be causing distress. I work from an understanding that many of life's concerns stem from our past experiences in relationships and the structural difficulties that are present in our society. I endeavor to understand peoples experience and distress through the context in which they live. I believe that the more we can understand the fixed patterns we find ourselves stuck in, the greater chance we have of learning to live in more meaningful ways. I offer supervision, individual and couples therapy.
(03) 7003 2203 View (03) 7003 2203
Photo of Chaille Perrett - Northcote Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Northcote Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Northcote, VIC 3070
At the heart of Chaille's practice is a deep commitment to the needs of her clients. She is dedicated to empowering individuals to work toward facing their challenges and to live more fulfilling lives. If someone thinks they might be a good fit, Chaille welcomes the opportunity to connect and discuss how she can support them. In addition to in-person sessions Chaille offers online therapy. Telehealth provides flexibility and accessibility for clients who may be more comfortable in their own environment or for those who the demands of their day to day lives mean they put off prioritising themselves.
At the heart of Chaille's practice is a deep commitment to the needs of her clients. She is dedicated to empowering individuals to work toward facing their challenges and to live more fulfilling lives. If someone thinks they might be a good fit, Chaille welcomes the opportunity to connect and discuss how she can support them. In addition to in-person sessions Chaille offers online therapy. Telehealth provides flexibility and accessibility for clients who may be more comfortable in their own environment or for those who the demands of their day to day lives mean they put off prioritising themselves.
View
Photo of Anna Inkster, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Anna Inkster
Counsellor, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Footscray, VIC 3011
Feeling emotionally exhausted, depressed, burnt out or anxious takes up a lot of energy and mental space. I meet people everyday who are struggling to feel better, they are at the mercy of their thoughts and are living on auto pilot. Our mind is constantly selling us stories and putting meaning to our experiences; it is the meaning we attach to circumstances, situations and experiences that can cause the suffering. Counselling can help with this! If you have been putting this off and just surviving, this is a sign to reach out for help-and yes, I do believe in signs!
Feeling emotionally exhausted, depressed, burnt out or anxious takes up a lot of energy and mental space. I meet people everyday who are struggling to feel better, they are at the mercy of their thoughts and are living on auto pilot. Our mind is constantly selling us stories and putting meaning to our experiences; it is the meaning we attach to circumstances, situations and experiences that can cause the suffering. Counselling can help with this! If you have been putting this off and just surviving, this is a sign to reach out for help-and yes, I do believe in signs!
(03) 6146 1669 View (03) 6146 1669
Photo of Jackie Zombolas, Social Worker, AMHSW
Jackie Zombolas
Social Worker, AMHSW
Brunswick, VIC 3056
You’ve had symptom relief, but your struggles still persist. Hi, I'm Jackie, a Mental Health Social Worker and Psychodynamic Psychotherapist in Brunswick (South East). My psychodynamic approach builds your mental health management strategies, while supporting you to understand how your past experiences, patterns and emotions may influence you now. I bring empathy, curiosity and connection, developing trust and understanding over time. I maintain a reliable and continuous practice, with breaks around each school holidays. Weekly therapy can help you feel safe, held, seen and heard, creating capacity to live life in your way.
You’ve had symptom relief, but your struggles still persist. Hi, I'm Jackie, a Mental Health Social Worker and Psychodynamic Psychotherapist in Brunswick (South East). My psychodynamic approach builds your mental health management strategies, while supporting you to understand how your past experiences, patterns and emotions may influence you now. I bring empathy, curiosity and connection, developing trust and understanding over time. I maintain a reliable and continuous practice, with breaks around each school holidays. Weekly therapy can help you feel safe, held, seen and heard, creating capacity to live life in your way.
0494 166 308 View 0494 166 308
Photo of Sherridan J Green, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Sherridan J Green
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Northcote, VIC 3070
Sherridan is a Gestalt therapist and EMDR practitioner. Her personal style is attentive, compassionate, and supportive. You will experience being listened to and responded to with curiosity and authenticity. She provides a safe and welcoming space for you to explore your deepest concerns, leading to deep healing. Sherridan supports individuals and couples on journeys of self-discovery through understanding vital areas of their lives, including emotional development, identity, responses to the world, awareness, process of enquiry, living skills, and capacity for self-responsibility. Sherridan is socially progressive and inclusive.
Sherridan is a Gestalt therapist and EMDR practitioner. Her personal style is attentive, compassionate, and supportive. You will experience being listened to and responded to with curiosity and authenticity. She provides a safe and welcoming space for you to explore your deepest concerns, leading to deep healing. Sherridan supports individuals and couples on journeys of self-discovery through understanding vital areas of their lives, including emotional development, identity, responses to the world, awareness, process of enquiry, living skills, and capacity for self-responsibility. Sherridan is socially progressive and inclusive.
(03) 9118 9081 View (03) 9118 9081
Photo of Sylvie Braverman, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Sylvie Braverman
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Bentleigh, VIC 3204
I am a registered clinical counsellor. I use Emotion-Focused Therapy as my main mode of practice. EFT is Person Centred/Humanistic. It is based on the Attachment and Identity theory. It also means that in therapy, I prioritise working on emotions. You may have learned to avoid and suppress your feelings, or they may have overwhelmed you. In therapy, I aim to support you in befriending and welcoming your feelings so they become a resource as they are meant to be and not a hindrance.
I am a registered clinical counsellor. I use Emotion-Focused Therapy as my main mode of practice. EFT is Person Centred/Humanistic. It is based on the Attachment and Identity theory. It also means that in therapy, I prioritise working on emotions. You may have learned to avoid and suppress your feelings, or they may have overwhelmed you. In therapy, I aim to support you in befriending and welcoming your feelings so they become a resource as they are meant to be and not a hindrance.
(03) 9069 9726 View (03) 9069 9726
Photo of Belinda Maher - The Neuroaffirmation Station (Belinda Maher), Social Worker, AASW
The Neuroaffirmation Station (Belinda Maher)
Social Worker, AASW
1 Endorsed
Aspendale, VIC 3195
She specialises in supporting young people & their families/carers through a compassionate, evidence-informed approach.
Belinda is known for her compassionate approach & her ability to interweave EMDR & Play Therapy for children aged 2-18. Most clients seek support regarding: - child sexual assault - school can't (aka: school refusal) - anxiety - depression - phobias - disordered eating - medical trauma/phobia - grief - self-esteem - single event traumas - family separation
She specialises in supporting young people & their families/carers through a compassionate, evidence-informed approach.
Belinda is known for her compassionate approach & her ability to interweave EMDR & Play Therapy for children aged 2-18. Most clients seek support regarding: - child sexual assault - school can't (aka: school refusal) - anxiety - depression - phobias - disordered eating - medical trauma/phobia - grief - self-esteem - single event traumas - family separation
(03) 8771 4745 View (03) 8771 4745
Photo of John Cameron, Counsellor
John Cameron
Counsellor
1 Endorsed
Northcote, VIC 3070
I am a psychoanalyst working with adults and children. I offer support in times of crisis and long-term treatment to address sources of inner conflict, anxiety and distress. My work is grounded in the ethics, theory and practice established by Sigmund Freud and elucidated by Jacques Lacan. It recognises and seeks to articulate one’s singular subjectivity, beneath the identities and expectations we unknowingly adhere to.
I am a psychoanalyst working with adults and children. I offer support in times of crisis and long-term treatment to address sources of inner conflict, anxiety and distress. My work is grounded in the ethics, theory and practice established by Sigmund Freud and elucidated by Jacques Lacan. It recognises and seeks to articulate one’s singular subjectivity, beneath the identities and expectations we unknowingly adhere to.
0407 426 107 View 0407 426 107
Photo of Nanaki K Bhatti, Counsellor, MC, PACFA
Nanaki K Bhatti
Counsellor, MC, PACFA
Online Only
For children it can also help with behavioural challenges, bullying, adjusting to family changes such as separation or divorce.
I offer caring, confidential counselling through Telehealth to make support more accessible, wherever you live in Australia. You can connect from the comfort of your home, without the stress of travel or long wait times. Additionally, I provide counselling support to people living in rural or regional areas as I care about people having access to the high quality service and being able to find mental health support when they need it, and in a way they can access it.
For children it can also help with behavioural challenges, bullying, adjusting to family changes such as separation or divorce.
I offer caring, confidential counselling through Telehealth to make support more accessible, wherever you live in Australia. You can connect from the comfort of your home, without the stress of travel or long wait times. Additionally, I provide counselling support to people living in rural or regional areas as I care about people having access to the high quality service and being able to find mental health support when they need it, and in a way they can access it.
(03) 8203 5794 View (03) 8203 5794
Photo of Dr Milanda Matthews, Psychologist, PsyBA Endorsed
Dr Milanda Matthews
Psychologist, PsyBA Endorsed
Brunswick East, VIC 3057
People come to therapy for a range of reasons. There might be recurrent problems in relationships or work, there might be disturbing feelings within, or behaviours that are defeating or destructive. Many people find that their usual ways of coping don’t seem to work for them anymore. Whatever the issue, undertaking psychotherapy is an opportunity for you to really understand the underlying drivers of the problem, in the context of your unique life history, and to find a way to transform your suffering. New possibilities for living with greater freedom and creativity might then appear.
People come to therapy for a range of reasons. There might be recurrent problems in relationships or work, there might be disturbing feelings within, or behaviours that are defeating or destructive. Many people find that their usual ways of coping don’t seem to work for them anymore. Whatever the issue, undertaking psychotherapy is an opportunity for you to really understand the underlying drivers of the problem, in the context of your unique life history, and to find a way to transform your suffering. New possibilities for living with greater freedom and creativity might then appear.
(03) 9118 9071 View (03) 9118 9071
Photo of John Cooksey, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
John Cooksey
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Camberwell, VIC 3124
I’m a psychologist who’s long been curious about how people manage life’s challenges, what makes problems feel overwhelming, and what helps people move forward. Throughout my life I have seen the same themes appear such as stress, self-doubt, relationship strain, burnout, and the experience of feeling stuck. If you’re looking for calm, dependable support to better manage life’s demands and reconnect with what matters, I’d be glad to talk about how we might work together. With or without a Mental Health Plan is ok, plus I work with clients under Workcover and other government support programs.
I’m a psychologist who’s long been curious about how people manage life’s challenges, what makes problems feel overwhelming, and what helps people move forward. Throughout my life I have seen the same themes appear such as stress, self-doubt, relationship strain, burnout, and the experience of feeling stuck. If you’re looking for calm, dependable support to better manage life’s demands and reconnect with what matters, I’d be glad to talk about how we might work together. With or without a Mental Health Plan is ok, plus I work with clients under Workcover and other government support programs.
(03) 8771 4419 View (03) 8771 4419
Photo of Christina Panagopoulos, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Christina Panagopoulos
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Bentleigh East, VIC 3165
I have over 7 years experience helping children, families and young adults with their mental health and wellbeing.
Hi! I’m Christina from State of Flow Psychology. Navigating life's challenges can feel overwhelming, and I'm here to offer a safe and supportive space for you to explore your experiences. I specialise in helping children, teens and young adults who are struggling with anxiety, mood disorders, adjustment to life transitions, and developing effective coping skills. I also have a deep understanding of neurodivergence and its unique impact. My approach is rooted in compassion and empathy, ensuring you feel heard and understood as we work together to build a path towards greater well-being.
I have over 7 years experience helping children, families and young adults with their mental health and wellbeing.
Hi! I’m Christina from State of Flow Psychology. Navigating life's challenges can feel overwhelming, and I'm here to offer a safe and supportive space for you to explore your experiences. I specialise in helping children, teens and young adults who are struggling with anxiety, mood disorders, adjustment to life transitions, and developing effective coping skills. I also have a deep understanding of neurodivergence and its unique impact. My approach is rooted in compassion and empathy, ensuring you feel heard and understood as we work together to build a path towards greater well-being.
(03) 8771 5359 View (03) 8771 5359
Photo of Gemma Louise Morley, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Gemma Louise Morley
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Camberwell, VIC 3124
I am a warm and approachable psychologist who creates a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. My goal is to help you gain a deeper understanding of yourself, address your challenges, and make meaningful changes in your life. I believe in keeping our sessions relaxed and enjoyable. I love sharing a laugh with my clients as we navigate their journeys together. I have a particular interest in supporting adolescents, young adults and new parents.
I am a warm and approachable psychologist who creates a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. My goal is to help you gain a deeper understanding of yourself, address your challenges, and make meaningful changes in your life. I believe in keeping our sessions relaxed and enjoyable. I love sharing a laugh with my clients as we navigate their journeys together. I have a particular interest in supporting adolescents, young adults and new parents.
(03) 7003 2182 View (03) 7003 2182
Photo of Lauren Pennacchia, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Lauren Pennacchia
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Briar Hill, VIC 3088
Lauren is a psychologist who works with adolescents and young adults. Lauren has extensive experience and has worked in hospital settings, a juvenile detention centre and private practice. She has a widespread of knowledge in diagnosis and treatment and aims to bring a warm, empathetic and collaborative approach to therapy. Lauren uses a range of therapeutic frameworks to tailor treatment to each individual. These frameworks include: Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), Client Centred Play Therapy (CCPT) and Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT).
Lauren is a psychologist who works with adolescents and young adults. Lauren has extensive experience and has worked in hospital settings, a juvenile detention centre and private practice. She has a widespread of knowledge in diagnosis and treatment and aims to bring a warm, empathetic and collaborative approach to therapy. Lauren uses a range of therapeutic frameworks to tailor treatment to each individual. These frameworks include: Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), Client Centred Play Therapy (CCPT) and Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT).
(03) 8400 0027 View (03) 8400 0027
Photo of James Blaze, Psychologist, PsyBA General
James Blaze
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Box Hill North, VIC 3129
You might be feeling stuck, flat, stressed or overwhelmed, like something’s not quite right, even if nothing is obviously “wrong.” Maybe you're feeling the pressure of work, struggling in your relationships, or unsure what comes next. I work with men who are trying to make sense of these feelings and want clarity, direction, and practical tools to move forward. Whether you’re navigating a career change, feeling disconnected, or just looking to understand yourself better, therapy can offer a space to explore what’s really going on beneath the surface.
You might be feeling stuck, flat, stressed or overwhelmed, like something’s not quite right, even if nothing is obviously “wrong.” Maybe you're feeling the pressure of work, struggling in your relationships, or unsure what comes next. I work with men who are trying to make sense of these feelings and want clarity, direction, and practical tools to move forward. Whether you’re navigating a career change, feeling disconnected, or just looking to understand yourself better, therapy can offer a space to explore what’s really going on beneath the surface.
(03) 7052 9006 View (03) 7052 9006
Photo of Andrea Larkins - Andrea Larkins Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Andrea Larkins Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Brunswick, VIC 3056
Hi I’m Andrea a Clinical and Counselling Psychologist. Do any of the following resonate with you? You’ve lost the happy moments you used to have in your life. You’ve lost a sense of meaning in your life. You feel yourself sinking into increasingly negative feelings and worries. You wake up feeling extremely sad but don't know why. You’re scared your relationship isn’t going to work out. You struggle to get along with your partner, parent or other people in your life. You keep telling yourself to get over the past but finding you can’t. Or you’re not exactly sure what the problem is but you are feeling lost and alone.
Hi I’m Andrea a Clinical and Counselling Psychologist. Do any of the following resonate with you? You’ve lost the happy moments you used to have in your life. You’ve lost a sense of meaning in your life. You feel yourself sinking into increasingly negative feelings and worries. You wake up feeling extremely sad but don't know why. You’re scared your relationship isn’t going to work out. You struggle to get along with your partner, parent or other people in your life. You keep telling yourself to get over the past but finding you can’t. Or you’re not exactly sure what the problem is but you are feeling lost and alone.
(03) 9111 2688 View (03) 9111 2688
Photo of Renate Hoffmann, Social Worker, AMHSW
Renate Hoffmann
Social Worker, AMHSW
Cheltenham, VIC 3192
Renate is privileged to assist individuals, families, colleagues, groups & communities in making changes, facing adversity and shaping lives and practices.
Renate provides a collaborative person-centred approach to her support, counselling, therapy and supervision. As a client of Renate's, you will be wanting to explore and understand your situation and circumstances. Renate will offer warmth, support, guidance and facilitation, as you understand what is possible in the change process and what is about adding in, or finding other ways to accept situations that cannot be changed. Her approach is explorative and well-informed and focuses on you, and reclaiming the parts of you that may have been forgotten or overlooked.
Renate is privileged to assist individuals, families, colleagues, groups & communities in making changes, facing adversity and shaping lives and practices.
Renate provides a collaborative person-centred approach to her support, counselling, therapy and supervision. As a client of Renate's, you will be wanting to explore and understand your situation and circumstances. Renate will offer warmth, support, guidance and facilitation, as you understand what is possible in the change process and what is about adding in, or finding other ways to accept situations that cannot be changed. Her approach is explorative and well-informed and focuses on you, and reclaiming the parts of you that may have been forgotten or overlooked.
(03) 7500 5341 View (03) 7500 5341
Photo of Jacynta Hodges, Social Worker, MSc, AMHSW
Jacynta Hodges
Social Worker, MSc, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Specialising in high risk adolescents and adults, I offer contemporary psychoanalysis and EMDR resulting in powerful therapeutic benefits. Integrating several types of therapy (CBT, solution focused, problem solving), psychoanalysis informs my work in terms of the way I conceptualise the client's current problems and EMDR (as needed) results in a faster way of processing trauma. Combining these two therapies provides effective in-depth therapy with relatively brief therapy. If you have been suffering with unresolved psychological trauma, I can help you to overcome the problems that are keeping you from maximising your potential.
Specialising in high risk adolescents and adults, I offer contemporary psychoanalysis and EMDR resulting in powerful therapeutic benefits. Integrating several types of therapy (CBT, solution focused, problem solving), psychoanalysis informs my work in terms of the way I conceptualise the client's current problems and EMDR (as needed) results in a faster way of processing trauma. Combining these two therapies provides effective in-depth therapy with relatively brief therapy. If you have been suffering with unresolved psychological trauma, I can help you to overcome the problems that are keeping you from maximising your potential.
(03) 8771 4020 View (03) 8771 4020

See more therapy options for Greater Melbourne (Metropolitan)

Family Therapy
What do family therapists do?
A family therapist facilitates the process of understanding and improving how a family functions. The therapist will help family members develop empathy for one another. They’ll seek to understand existing patterns, misunderstandings, and conflicts that arise, in order to help the family arrive at a realistic, unified understanding and develop the coping skills they need to build stronger relationships.

How long does therapy for families take to work?
Therapy manifests differently in every family; a common time frame is 12 weekly sessions, but some families may see improvement after just a few weeks. Families should discuss their goals with the therapist at the beginning of the process and periodically revisit those goals to assess their progress together.

How can you encourage a family member to attend family therapy?
You can encourage family members to attend therapy by expressing with both love and concern the challenges you see and explaining how a therapist could help the family navigate those challenges together. An outside perspective can help everyone feel heard, get on the same page, and develop new skills. If family members are still hesitant, it may be helpful to emphasize that family therapy is short-term—it won’t last forever.

Is therapy for families effective?
Family therapy can significantly improve family dynamics and relationships. Research suggests that family therapy can help individuals understand their role in the family, communicate and solve problems together, reduce conflict and draw boundaries when necessary, and develop coping skills for stressors, major life changes, and mental or physical illnesses within the family.