Sexual Abuse Psychologists and Therapists in Highett, VIC

Photo of Lucy McCarthy, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Lucy McCarthy
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
My particular areas of expertise are in the treatment of Complex Trauma, Childhood Sexual Abuse and Problem Gambling.
I engage with my clients in a respectful and professional manner, underpinned by warmth and openness. I endeavour to bring an authenticity that allows you to feel comfortable and confident enough to explore your concerns, then co create a plan utilising treatments such as Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Cognitive Therapy or Attachment Based Interventions.
My particular areas of expertise are in the treatment of Complex Trauma, Childhood Sexual Abuse and Problem Gambling.
I engage with my clients in a respectful and professional manner, underpinned by warmth and openness. I endeavour to bring an authenticity that allows you to feel comfortable and confident enough to explore your concerns, then co create a plan utilising treatments such as Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Cognitive Therapy or Attachment Based Interventions.
(03) 7500 5855 View (03) 7500 5855
Photo of Toula Filiadis, Social Worker, AMHSW
Toula Filiadis
Social Worker, AMHSW
Highett, VIC 3190
For 20 years, Toula has had the opportunity of working with people who have maintained a commitment to their wellbeing by addressing challenging issues in their lives. Toula has had extensive experience in working with children, adolescents, adults and families across a range of settings including public mental health, school setting, Relationships Australia and private practice. Toula maintains a wholistic approach and believes that individuals and families are the experts of their own lives and values their contribution in counselling.
For 20 years, Toula has had the opportunity of working with people who have maintained a commitment to their wellbeing by addressing challenging issues in their lives. Toula has had extensive experience in working with children, adolescents, adults and families across a range of settings including public mental health, school setting, Relationships Australia and private practice. Toula maintains a wholistic approach and believes that individuals and families are the experts of their own lives and values their contribution in counselling.
(03) 6146 1713 View (03) 6146 1713
Photo of Adam Szmerling, Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
Adam Szmerling
Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
Highett, VIC 3190
My ideal clients are individual adults and couples seeking relief from anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or patterns that keep repeating. They may feel stuck, wanting more meaning, peace, and self understanding. They value depth, authenticity, and want to explore not just symptoms but the root causes of their struggles to create lasting emotional change.
My ideal clients are individual adults and couples seeking relief from anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or patterns that keep repeating. They may feel stuck, wanting more meaning, peace, and self understanding. They value depth, authenticity, and want to explore not just symptoms but the root causes of their struggles to create lasting emotional change.
(03) 8771 5463 View (03) 8771 5463
Photo of Natalie Sarah Cohen, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Natalie Sarah Cohen
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a seasoned counselor, I endeavor to bring a wealth of empathy and insight to guide individuals on their journey to self-discovery and healing. With a blend of modalities and evidence-based therapeutic techniques, I create a safe space for clients to explore their emotions and experiences. I am dedicated to fostering resilience and empowering others to overcome obstacles. Known for a compassionate approach and a commitment to continuous professional development, I offer support and connection, helping individuals navigate life
As a seasoned counselor, I endeavor to bring a wealth of empathy and insight to guide individuals on their journey to self-discovery and healing. With a blend of modalities and evidence-based therapeutic techniques, I create a safe space for clients to explore their emotions and experiences. I am dedicated to fostering resilience and empowering others to overcome obstacles. Known for a compassionate approach and a commitment to continuous professional development, I offer support and connection, helping individuals navigate life
(03) 7500 5004 View (03) 7500 5004
Photo of Kim Storey, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Kim Storey
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
A professional clinical counsellor/psychotherapist with 15 years experience who will provide you with a caring and safe space to talk about what is troubling you. Counselling can help you to navigate through current or past issues; it may be a journey you need to take by yourself, or with your partner or family. Whatever stage you're at and whoever you're with, coming to counselling can be an experience of learning and discovery that will ultimately enrichen your relationships and the way you live your life.
A professional clinical counsellor/psychotherapist with 15 years experience who will provide you with a caring and safe space to talk about what is troubling you. Counselling can help you to navigate through current or past issues; it may be a journey you need to take by yourself, or with your partner or family. Whatever stage you're at and whoever you're with, coming to counselling can be an experience of learning and discovery that will ultimately enrichen your relationships and the way you live your life.
(03) 6146 3219 View (03) 6146 3219

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sarah Jones, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Sarah Jones
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Preston, VIC 3072
Sarah Jones is an effective therapist with 25 years’ experience counselling adults, couples, and older adolescents (15 years and older). She is a Clinical Member of the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia, and a senior clinician who has contributed to the field through providing professional development and supervision of other counsellors. Sarah works with individuals and couples addressing their mental health, communication and fulfilment in life.
Sarah Jones is an effective therapist with 25 years’ experience counselling adults, couples, and older adolescents (15 years and older). She is a Clinical Member of the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia, and a senior clinician who has contributed to the field through providing professional development and supervision of other counsellors. Sarah works with individuals and couples addressing their mental health, communication and fulfilment in life.
(03) 8338 1006 View (03) 8338 1006
Photo of Kalinda Vary, Social Worker, AMHSW
Kalinda Vary
Social Worker, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Fitzroy North, VIC 3068
I work with folks navigating mental health, existential anxiety, complex trauma, sexual assault, domestic violence, post traumatic stress, systemic harm, identity exploration, grief and burnout.
In general, my style is grounded, empathic and intuitive. I do however adapt my approach according to your needs and goals, for example if you prefer structure or interactive resources or the inclusion of somatic (body-based) or art therapies (for example intuitive drawing) I will incorporate these approaches.
I work with folks navigating mental health, existential anxiety, complex trauma, sexual assault, domestic violence, post traumatic stress, systemic harm, identity exploration, grief and burnout.
In general, my style is grounded, empathic and intuitive. I do however adapt my approach according to your needs and goals, for example if you prefer structure or interactive resources or the inclusion of somatic (body-based) or art therapies (for example intuitive drawing) I will incorporate these approaches.
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Photo of Ruairi Gallagher, Social Worker, AMHSW
Ruairi Gallagher
Social Worker, AMHSW
2 Endorsed
Thornbury, VIC 3071
I held a counsellor role at a rights-based sex worker organisation and I continue trauma-specific counselling at a sexual assault centre.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in the community sector. Having worked in both urban and regional locations in Australia, and in community-based roles in the UK and Canada, I pride myself on being able to connect with people from all walks of life. I've worked with people of all genders, sexualities, cultures and abilities. Whilst working on Vancouver Island, I ran addictions support groups made up of an assortment of individuals. Homeless folks would be facing similar issues to investment banker-types. This led to me becoming more interested in the universality of trauma and PTSD.
I held a counsellor role at a rights-based sex worker organisation and I continue trauma-specific counselling at a sexual assault centre.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in the community sector. Having worked in both urban and regional locations in Australia, and in community-based roles in the UK and Canada, I pride myself on being able to connect with people from all walks of life. I've worked with people of all genders, sexualities, cultures and abilities. Whilst working on Vancouver Island, I ran addictions support groups made up of an assortment of individuals. Homeless folks would be facing similar issues to investment banker-types. This led to me becoming more interested in the universality of trauma and PTSD.
(03) 8338 4331 View (03) 8338 4331
Photo of Peta de Burgh, Social Worker, AMHSW
Peta de Burgh
Social Worker, AMHSW
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
I have experience working with adults who have suffered from childhood sexual abuse, physical abuse and neglect, as well as those who have been affected by a recent traumatic event.
I use a range of specialist interventions when working with Trauma, such as Somatic Therapy, TF-CBT ,EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing) psycho-education, and stabilisation techniques. I am particularly interested in polyvagal theory, brain plasticity, body psychotherapy, and incorporate this into my work with you.
I have experience working with adults who have suffered from childhood sexual abuse, physical abuse and neglect, as well as those who have been affected by a recent traumatic event.
I use a range of specialist interventions when working with Trauma, such as Somatic Therapy, TF-CBT ,EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing) psycho-education, and stabilisation techniques. I am particularly interested in polyvagal theory, brain plasticity, body psychotherapy, and incorporate this into my work with you.
(03) 7003 2905 View (03) 7003 2905
Photo of Rebecca Reale - Wholehearted Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Wholehearted Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Consequently, I have worked extensively with victim/survivors of sexual assault and family violence.
We can focus on a specific problem area you bring to therapy, and delve to a deeper level of understanding of the issue/s so as to resolve it, or we can work in a more fluid, open-ended manner, with self-discovery in mind. While I am not resistant to diagnosis and working within a pathological lens, I like to see people outside of narrow diagnostic labels. In the first instance, my first approach is to understand a client’s suffering by learning about them as unique individuals with complex histories and adaptive coping strategies. As I engage wholeheartedly with clients, my ask is that clients attempt to engage wholeheartedly too.
Consequently, I have worked extensively with victim/survivors of sexual assault and family violence.
We can focus on a specific problem area you bring to therapy, and delve to a deeper level of understanding of the issue/s so as to resolve it, or we can work in a more fluid, open-ended manner, with self-discovery in mind. While I am not resistant to diagnosis and working within a pathological lens, I like to see people outside of narrow diagnostic labels. In the first instance, my first approach is to understand a client’s suffering by learning about them as unique individuals with complex histories and adaptive coping strategies. As I engage wholeheartedly with clients, my ask is that clients attempt to engage wholeheartedly too.
(03) 8338 1979 View (03) 8338 1979
Photo of Kat O'Mara, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Kat O'Mara
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
McKinnon, VIC 3204
I also work with women who have experienced sexual abuse, assault, and rape.
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 also work with women who have experienced sexual abuse, assault, and rape.
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
Photo of Kerryann Henry - KerryAnn Henry -Individual & Couples Therapy, Social Worker, AASW
KerryAnn Henry -Individual & Couples Therapy
Social Worker, AASW
Serves Area
I work with all issues such as childhood trauma, PTSD, DV/FV, anger, anxiety, sexual assault, communication, trust, shame, sexual issues, infidelity, addictions, parenting, ASD, MI & grief.
Empathic, safe & caring, using highly skilled proven attachment & relationship therapies- we work together as a team. You'll learn the relationship is the issue - not the individuals. Everyone deserves the best relationships possible; strong relationships being crucial to our individual wellbeing as well as our family's health & wellbeing outcomes.
I work with all issues such as childhood trauma, PTSD, DV/FV, anger, anxiety, sexual assault, communication, trust, shame, sexual issues, infidelity, addictions, parenting, ASD, MI & grief.
Empathic, safe & caring, using highly skilled proven attachment & relationship therapies- we work together as a team. You'll learn the relationship is the issue - not the individuals. Everyone deserves the best relationships possible; strong relationships being crucial to our individual wellbeing as well as our family's health & wellbeing outcomes.
(02) 5503 9341 View (02) 5503 9341
Photo of Kelly Higginbotham, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Kelly Higginbotham
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Thornbury, VIC 3071
I typically work with people who have experienced chronic difficulties with their mental health, and/or those who have experienced trauma. My patients have typically worked with others and seek a different approach. A longterm therapeutic relationship provides a space where individuals feel safe to explore their current issues and the origins of these difficulties.
I typically work with people who have experienced chronic difficulties with their mental health, and/or those who have experienced trauma. My patients have typically worked with others and seek a different approach. A longterm therapeutic relationship provides a space where individuals feel safe to explore their current issues and the origins of these difficulties.
0419 259 341 View 0419 259 341
Photo of Maddison Cassidy, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Maddison Cassidy
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
You can call me Maddison, or Maddy. My ideal clients are individuals experiencing trauma‑related symptoms, emotional distress and dysregulation. I frequently work with people who have experienced complex trauma, sexual violence, refugee trauma and youth mental health. I enjoy working with complex psychosocial presentations and those who have struggled to find the right therapeutic fit or found it difficult to access and navigate mental health and wellbeing support. I am passionate about therapy that is accessible and affordable, meets people's needs and honours the complexity of peoples intersecting identities and experiences.
You can call me Maddison, or Maddy. My ideal clients are individuals experiencing trauma‑related symptoms, emotional distress and dysregulation. I frequently work with people who have experienced complex trauma, sexual violence, refugee trauma and youth mental health. I enjoy working with complex psychosocial presentations and those who have struggled to find the right therapeutic fit or found it difficult to access and navigate mental health and wellbeing support. I am passionate about therapy that is accessible and affordable, meets people's needs and honours the complexity of peoples intersecting identities and experiences.
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Photo of Olivia Donnini - Align Therapies, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Align Therapies
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Online Only
Hi! I'm Olivia. I’m glad my profile found its way to you. At the heart of my work is a deep belief in the importance of healthy, authentic, and safe relationships. Life’s challenges can sometimes disconnect us from ourselves, affecting every part of our lives. Through the therapeutic relationship, we can explore and heal, helping you reconnect with yourself- an essential foundation for all relationships.
Hi! I'm Olivia. I’m glad my profile found its way to you. At the heart of my work is a deep belief in the importance of healthy, authentic, and safe relationships. Life’s challenges can sometimes disconnect us from ourselves, affecting every part of our lives. Through the therapeutic relationship, we can explore and heal, helping you reconnect with yourself- an essential foundation for all relationships.
(07) 5451 4047 View (07) 5451 4047
Photo of Barbara Drossos, Social Worker, AMHSW
Barbara Drossos
Social Worker, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Fitzroy, VIC 3065
I support people who have experienced sexual assault and violence, as well as those who struggle with their mental health, childhood trauma, attachment, relationships, parenting, heartbreak and shame.
Life can be hard to navigate, especially when we face transitions, stressors and/or crises. Counselling can make a difference. I provide non-judgmental, warm and thoughtful support to work towards change through increasing self-awareness, developing interpersonal and self-care skills, as well as processing trauma that may still be impacting your life.
I support people who have experienced sexual assault and violence, as well as those who struggle with their mental health, childhood trauma, attachment, relationships, parenting, heartbreak and shame.
Life can be hard to navigate, especially when we face transitions, stressors and/or crises. Counselling can make a difference. I provide non-judgmental, warm and thoughtful support to work towards change through increasing self-awareness, developing interpersonal and self-care skills, as well as processing trauma that may still be impacting your life.
(03) 9344 1556 View (03) 9344 1556
Photo of Hannah Bruce, Counsellor, PACFA
Hannah Bruce
Counsellor, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Hannah is a specialist trauma counsellor with deep experience supporting adult survivors of childhood trauma, complex PTSD, addiction, and victims of crime — including those engaging with the National Redress Scheme. With an extensive background in counselling, she brings warmth, clarity, and grounded empathy to her work. Hannah has worked across community mental health, addiction recovery, and trauma support services. Her practice is informed by EFT, somatic counselling, motivational interviewing, and the Blue Knot Foundation’s Clinical Practice Guidelines for Complex Trauma.
Hannah is a specialist trauma counsellor with deep experience supporting adult survivors of childhood trauma, complex PTSD, addiction, and victims of crime — including those engaging with the National Redress Scheme. With an extensive background in counselling, she brings warmth, clarity, and grounded empathy to her work. Hannah has worked across community mental health, addiction recovery, and trauma support services. Her practice is informed by EFT, somatic counselling, motivational interviewing, and the Blue Knot Foundation’s Clinical Practice Guidelines for Complex Trauma.
(03) 8203 5751 View (03) 8203 5751
Photo of Tammy Stander, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Tammy Stander
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Online Only
I am a trauma-informed and neurodiverse affirming RI-EMDR therapist and clinical supervisor. I seek to create a deepening awareness of self and enhance connection with others. I work primarily in the areas of complex trauma and dissociation supporting individuals and their loved ones. Exploration of the human condition has always intrigued me. I am curious as to the driving force behind why we do what we do and what determines our path in life. In understanding our life’s journey and what shapes it, we can begin to move towards a more content existence - with a balanced relationship with the world and the connections it brings.
I am a trauma-informed and neurodiverse affirming RI-EMDR therapist and clinical supervisor. I seek to create a deepening awareness of self and enhance connection with others. I work primarily in the areas of complex trauma and dissociation supporting individuals and their loved ones. Exploration of the human condition has always intrigued me. I am curious as to the driving force behind why we do what we do and what determines our path in life. In understanding our life’s journey and what shapes it, we can begin to move towards a more content existence - with a balanced relationship with the world and the connections it brings.
(02) 9159 6712 View (02) 9159 6712
Photo of Dr Melissa Vella, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Melissa Vella
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Officer, VIC 3809
Hi there, let me guess... You are here because you used to be able to cope. You have faced a lot of things in your life, and have always managed. But you are now struggling, and you are surprised and feeling shame that you can’t tough this one out. You have compassion for others who aren’t coping and are always the strong one, the listening ear. But somehow, you see yourself as different, you are not supposed to fall apart. And certainly not now.
Hi there, let me guess... You are here because you used to be able to cope. You have faced a lot of things in your life, and have always managed. But you are now struggling, and you are surprised and feeling shame that you can’t tough this one out. You have compassion for others who aren’t coping and are always the strong one, the listening ear. But somehow, you see yourself as different, you are not supposed to fall apart. And certainly not now.
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Photo of Jane Lumley - Jane Lumley - People Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Jane Lumley - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Melbourne, VIC 3000
Jane has experience in: Child Community Health settings Sexual Assault Counselling Psychiatric Inpatient care Counselling for general psychological problems Jane can provide psychologist reports.
Jane has experience counselling clients and can help you with: Emotional Dysregulation Counselling for Trauma Anxiety Depression Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Divorce Domestic Abuse Domestic Violence Emotional Disturbance Parenting Peer Relationships Self-Esteem Self-Harming Sexual Abuse Sexual Assault Sleep or Insomnia Stress Trauma and PTSD (Post
Jane has experience in: Child Community Health settings Sexual Assault Counselling Psychiatric Inpatient care Counselling for general psychological problems Jane can provide psychologist reports.
Jane has experience counselling clients and can help you with: Emotional Dysregulation Counselling for Trauma Anxiety Depression Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Divorce Domestic Abuse Domestic Violence Emotional Disturbance Parenting Peer Relationships Self-Esteem Self-Harming Sexual Abuse Sexual Assault Sleep or Insomnia Stress Trauma and PTSD (Post
(03) 7003 2782 View (03) 7003 2782
Sexual Abuse Therapists
How do therapists treat sexual abuse?
A good therapist will be nonjudgmental and possibly demonstrate active listening, repeating back what the client says to show that they have understood. These skills allow people to feel comfortable discussing their traumatic experiences openly. Some important treatment goals are to restore a sense of safety and to rebuild confidence. In addition to working one-on-one with the patient, a therapist might bring in supportive family members to assist the client.

Do you have to talk extensively about sexual abuse in therapy?
Survivors frequently find it difficult to describe what happened to them out loud. They can even still be in a state of denial if the sexual abuse occurred recently. It is important for survivors to acknowledge that what happened isn’t their fault and to challenge and reappraise any unhealthy feelings or thoughts as they arise. Art therapy and play therapy are useful non-verbal means of communication for some survivors.

How long does treatment for sexual abuse take?
Recovery from sexual abuse can be a long and difficult process. Some survivors are able to move on naturally on their own, given time, while others require the guidance of a trained therapist. Therapy needs vary and can range from a few sessions to months or even years. Healing from sexual abuse takes time, and everyone’s journey will look a little different.

Can trauma symptoms caused by sexual abuse come back after treatment?
As occurs in many cases of trauma, survivors of sexual abuse may experience PTSD-like symptoms long after the abuse has ceased or after an initial round of treatment has occurred. In such a case, there is evidence that prolonged exposure therapy is a useful treatment for survivors, and may be more efficacious than supportive counseling alone. While triggers may continue to cause distress, the idea is that, with time and repeated exposure, their power will fade, allowing survivors to move on with their lives.