Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Psychologists and Therapists in Hughesdale, VIC

Photo of Christine Malios, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Christine Malios
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Hughesdale, VIC 3166
Using interpersonal therapy and psychodynamic approaches, I tailor CBT, ACT, DBT, and mindfulness to meet your unique needs.
Hello, I’m Christine, a registered psychologist. I work with adults managing ADHD or Autism, anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, grief and loss, and mid-life transitions such as perimenopause and menopause. I work well with clients who want their inner experience to be understood and held with care, and who value a collaborative partner to help them recognise patterns, clarify their needs and enhance their wellbeing. I offer a steady, supportive space to reduce overwhelm, make sense of your experiences, and build practical strategies that align with your neurotype, values and daily realities.
Using interpersonal therapy and psychodynamic approaches, I tailor CBT, ACT, DBT, and mindfulness to meet your unique needs.
Hello, I’m Christine, a registered psychologist. I work with adults managing ADHD or Autism, anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, grief and loss, and mid-life transitions such as perimenopause and menopause. I work well with clients who want their inner experience to be understood and held with care, and who value a collaborative partner to help them recognise patterns, clarify their needs and enhance their wellbeing. I offer a steady, supportive space to reduce overwhelm, make sense of your experiences, and build practical strategies that align with your neurotype, values and daily realities.
(03) 8771 5304 View (03) 8771 5304
Photo of Ryan Hsu, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Ryan Hsu
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Online Only
Ryan is a counsellor and sex therapist keen to work with LGBTIQA+ communities, migrants and refugees. He/they take an intersectional approach to supporting his clients. He/they have a Master of Counselling and Master of Law from Monash University, a Master of Science in Medicine (SRH) specialising in Psychosexual Therapy from the University of Sydney, a Bachelor of Business, a Graduate Diploma in Education and a Graduate Certificate in Forensic Psychology from Curtin University.
Ryan is a counsellor and sex therapist keen to work with LGBTIQA+ communities, migrants and refugees. He/they take an intersectional approach to supporting his clients. He/they have a Master of Counselling and Master of Law from Monash University, a Master of Science in Medicine (SRH) specialising in Psychosexual Therapy from the University of Sydney, a Bachelor of Business, a Graduate Diploma in Education and a Graduate Certificate in Forensic Psychology from Curtin University.
(03) 8400 0614 View (03) 8400 0614
Photo of Sandra Ifrah, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Sandra Ifrah
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Sandra’s therapeutic approach is tailored to the need of the client, and uses a wide range of techniques, such as play, art, CBT, ACT and mindfulness, just to name a few.
Sandra Ifrah is a registered psychologist with extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing a range of mental health concerns. She adopts a family-focused approach, providing clients with a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment, while actively involving the family unit in the journey toward positive change. Sandra also works closely with separated families, offering therapeutic support to navigate complex dynamics, and provides professional reports for court-related purposes to assist in family law matters.
Sandra’s therapeutic approach is tailored to the need of the client, and uses a wide range of techniques, such as play, art, CBT, ACT and mindfulness, just to name a few.
Sandra Ifrah is a registered psychologist with extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing a range of mental health concerns. She adopts a family-focused approach, providing clients with a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment, while actively involving the family unit in the journey toward positive change. Sandra also works closely with separated families, offering therapeutic support to navigate complex dynamics, and provides professional reports for court-related purposes to assist in family law matters.
(03) 6144 6011 View (03) 6144 6011
Photo of Sundas Rehman, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Sundas Rehman
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Welcome to Internal Sunshine, where we embrace a holistic approach to your well-being, valuing every facet of who you are – your mind, body, soul, and social connections. Here, we understand that your spiritual beliefs, values, and sense of purpose are integral parts of your journey. Our therapy is grounded in anti-racism, affirming principles, and deep respect for your experiences and resilience. We're also committed to a neuroaffirming practice in therapy, which means we recognize and celebrate the diverse ways individuals process and engage with the world.
Welcome to Internal Sunshine, where we embrace a holistic approach to your well-being, valuing every facet of who you are – your mind, body, soul, and social connections. Here, we understand that your spiritual beliefs, values, and sense of purpose are integral parts of your journey. Our therapy is grounded in anti-racism, affirming principles, and deep respect for your experiences and resilience. We're also committed to a neuroaffirming practice in therapy, which means we recognize and celebrate the diverse ways individuals process and engage with the world.
(03) 7500 5089 View (03) 7500 5089
Photo of Kyo Chung, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Kyo Chung
Counsellor, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
An intuitive and compassionate counsellor with over a decade of experience guiding individuals, couples, and families through complex emotional and relational challenges. My multicultural perspective, shaped by life experiences in Korea, China, and the USA, combined with professional expertise across diverse roles—as a community interpreter, counsellor, and family therapist—enables me to provide holistic and culturally sensitive support. I've helped many clients recover from narcissistic abuse to build healthy identity and resilience.
An intuitive and compassionate counsellor with over a decade of experience guiding individuals, couples, and families through complex emotional and relational challenges. My multicultural perspective, shaped by life experiences in Korea, China, and the USA, combined with professional expertise across diverse roles—as a community interpreter, counsellor, and family therapist—enables me to provide holistic and culturally sensitive support. I've helped many clients recover from narcissistic abuse to build healthy identity and resilience.
(03) 9068 5740 View (03) 9068 5740
Photo of Kat O'Mara, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Kat O'Mara
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Serves Area
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.
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 Catherine Knott, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Catherine Knott
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with adults and older adolescents who may be feeling anxious, overwhelmed, emotionally stuck, or navigating life transitions, relationship difficulties, trauma, ADHD-related concerns, or workplace stress. Many clients seek therapy when patterns that once helped them cope are no longer serving them well. I provide a warm, thoughtful space to understand what is happening, clarify goals, and develop practical strategies using evidence-based approaches tailored to individual needs.
I work with adults and older adolescents who may be feeling anxious, overwhelmed, emotionally stuck, or navigating life transitions, relationship difficulties, trauma, ADHD-related concerns, or workplace stress. Many clients seek therapy when patterns that once helped them cope are no longer serving them well. I provide a warm, thoughtful space to understand what is happening, clarify goals, and develop practical strategies using evidence-based approaches tailored to individual needs.
(03) 8771 4721 View (03) 8771 4721

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Allana Crespin, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Allana Crespin
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Sandringham, VIC 3191
I offer a warm, collaborative and practical approach, drawing on Schema Therapy, EFT, CBT, ACT and EMDR.
Many of the people I work with are thoughtful, insightful individuals who are used to holding things together — often for everyone else. Despite this, they feel overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in patterns that keep repeating. Some are navigating relationship challenges or life transitions, while others are in the perinatal period, adjusting to pregnancy, early parenthood, or fertility difficulties. They’re often seeking a deeper understanding of themselves and a way to feel more grounded, connected, and in control.
I offer a warm, collaborative and practical approach, drawing on Schema Therapy, EFT, CBT, ACT and EMDR.
Many of the people I work with are thoughtful, insightful individuals who are used to holding things together — often for everyone else. Despite this, they feel overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in patterns that keep repeating. Some are navigating relationship challenges or life transitions, while others are in the perinatal period, adjusting to pregnancy, early parenthood, or fertility difficulties. They’re often seeking a deeper understanding of themselves and a way to feel more grounded, connected, and in control.
(03) 8771 5454 View (03) 8771 5454
Photo of Fiona Bailey - Junction Psychology, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Junction Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Brunswick West, VIC 3055
We are a group of Clinial Psychologists and Clinical Psychology Registrars with a minimum of 6 years university training. We assist clients with a range of mental health and adjustment issues. Please view our website www.junctionpsychology.com.au for more information on who we are and what we offer.
We are a group of Clinial Psychologists and Clinical Psychology Registrars with a minimum of 6 years university training. We assist clients with a range of mental health and adjustment issues. Please view our website www.junctionpsychology.com.au for more information on who we are and what we offer.
(03) 7003 2177 View (03) 7003 2177
Photo of Ofra Ronen, Counsellor
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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Photo of Shelley McDonald, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Shelley McDonald
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Beaumaris, VIC 3193
A compassionate and empathetic Counsellor, I aim to establish a supportive relationship and a safe space to enable people to navigate their challenges while building on their strengths, values and goals. With extensive experience in providing mental health and addiction counselling, I work from a strengths-based, trauma informed perspective.
A compassionate and empathetic Counsellor, I aim to establish a supportive relationship and a safe space to enable people to navigate their challenges while building on their strengths, values and goals. With extensive experience in providing mental health and addiction counselling, I work from a strengths-based, trauma informed perspective.
(03) 8771 5369 View (03) 8771 5369
Photo of Ben Torrens-Witherow, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Ben Torrens-Witherow
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Kew, VIC 3101
I draw primarily on ACT and Schema Therapy.
Have you ever wondered why life seems harder than it looks for everyone else? Perhaps you’ve spent years feeling different, repeating the same patterns, or working against your own brain rather than with it? I help adults better understand themselves so that change happens and sticks. I have a particular interest in ADHD and LGBTQIA+ mental health, while also supporting people with anxiety, self-esteem, relationships, perfectionism and life transitions. Together, we’ll make sense of what’s keeping you stuck and build a life that fits who you are.
I draw primarily on ACT and Schema Therapy.
Have you ever wondered why life seems harder than it looks for everyone else? Perhaps you’ve spent years feeling different, repeating the same patterns, or working against your own brain rather than with it? I help adults better understand themselves so that change happens and sticks. I have a particular interest in ADHD and LGBTQIA+ mental health, while also supporting people with anxiety, self-esteem, relationships, perfectionism and life transitions. Together, we’ll make sense of what’s keeping you stuck and build a life that fits who you are.
(03) 9111 2664 View (03) 9111 2664
Photo of Anthony Edwards, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Anthony Edwards
Counsellor, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you feeling anxious, stressed, confused, emotionally overwhelmed? Does life seem overwhelming, unfair, sad, unfulfilling, directionless, hopeless? Is your relationship in distress or not as fulfilling as you’d like? You’re not alone. I endeavour to understand what is important for you, which means that I don’t have a one-size-fits-all approach. Using empathy and non-judgement, I listen to understand what life is like for you and to ‘get’ you - what you are thinking and feeling, how the events of life have impacted you, and what you want and need. I create a safe space to be open and real about what you are experiencing.
Are you feeling anxious, stressed, confused, emotionally overwhelmed? Does life seem overwhelming, unfair, sad, unfulfilling, directionless, hopeless? Is your relationship in distress or not as fulfilling as you’d like? You’re not alone. I endeavour to understand what is important for you, which means that I don’t have a one-size-fits-all approach. Using empathy and non-judgement, I listen to understand what life is like for you and to ‘get’ you - what you are thinking and feeling, how the events of life have impacted you, and what you want and need. I create a safe space to be open and real about what you are experiencing.
(07) 3132 2338 View (07) 3132 2338
Photo of Rachel O'meara, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Rachel O'meara
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Caulfield North, VIC 3161
Rachel is a compassionate Psychologist dedicated to providing support to individuals across the lifespan, from children to adolescents and adults, who are navigating a variety of challenges. With experience in Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Trauma and Stressor Related Disorders, family violence and physical disabilities, Rachel brings a comprehensive approach to her practice. She believes in the power of strengths-based intervention plans tailored to each person’s unique needs, fostering a sense of empowerment and agency.
Rachel is a compassionate Psychologist dedicated to providing support to individuals across the lifespan, from children to adolescents and adults, who are navigating a variety of challenges. With experience in Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Trauma and Stressor Related Disorders, family violence and physical disabilities, Rachel brings a comprehensive approach to her practice. She believes in the power of strengths-based intervention plans tailored to each person’s unique needs, fostering a sense of empowerment and agency.
(03) 7003 2714 View (03) 7003 2714
Photo of Kathryn Williamson, Psychologist, PsyBA - Health Psych.
Kathryn Williamson
Psychologist, PsyBA - Health Psych.
Brighton East, VIC 3187
Kathryn has 30 years of experience working as a Health Psychologist in both the private and public sector. Kathryn is a Board approved supervisor and has a background in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, anger and trauma. She has a focus and an interest in supporting people with chronic health conditions including chronic pain and chronic fatigue syndrome. Kathryn works with survivors of sexual abuse and sexual assault and has a love of working with relationship issues and personal development.
Kathryn has 30 years of experience working as a Health Psychologist in both the private and public sector. Kathryn is a Board approved supervisor and has a background in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, anger and trauma. She has a focus and an interest in supporting people with chronic health conditions including chronic pain and chronic fatigue syndrome. Kathryn works with survivors of sexual abuse and sexual assault and has a love of working with relationship issues and personal development.
0409 554 850 View 0409 554 850
Photo of Karen Barnes, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Karen Barnes
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Melbourne, VIC 3000
If you’re an adult who is going through a difficult time, or who’s spent years pushing through—masking, overthinking, and feeling “too much” or not enough—you’re not alone. People reach out for many reasons: anxiety, low mood, stress, relationship difficulties, burnout, or simply wanting to understand themselves better. Due to lived experience, I also have a particular interest in supporting neurodivergent individuals and those impacted by complex trauma (CPTSD). Whatever brings you here, you may be looking for clarity, steadier emotions, and support that actually fits you.
If you’re an adult who is going through a difficult time, or who’s spent years pushing through—masking, overthinking, and feeling “too much” or not enough—you’re not alone. People reach out for many reasons: anxiety, low mood, stress, relationship difficulties, burnout, or simply wanting to understand themselves better. Due to lived experience, I also have a particular interest in supporting neurodivergent individuals and those impacted by complex trauma (CPTSD). Whatever brings you here, you may be looking for clarity, steadier emotions, and support that actually fits you.
0417 638 763 View 0417 638 763
Photo of Paula Garrido - Wellness Psychology Clinic (Telehealth Clinic), Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Wellness Psychology Clinic (Telehealth Clinic)
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
NDIS participants, we provide support focusing on capacity building, emotional wellbeing, and improving daily functioning. Our approach is respectful, flexible, and tailored to each participant’s individual goals and needs.
NDIS participants, we provide support focusing on capacity building, emotional wellbeing, and improving daily functioning. Our approach is respectful, flexible, and tailored to each participant’s individual goals and needs.
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Photo of Chiu Lau, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Chiu Lau
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Online Only
From 2003, Chiu has worked with autistic people and their families. Since then, she's developed proficiency treating and supporting clients across the lifespan experiencing trauma, chronic pain & fatigue, loss & grief, anxiety & mood disorders and minority stress (eg. Autistic, ADHD, medically disabled, culturally diverse and trans & gender questioning persons). Clients describe Chiu as thorough, efficient, down-to-earth, and practical. She works with a strengths-based, trauma-informed, person-centred lens, offering a no-BS, affirming approach grounded in evidence-based therapeutic modalities.
From 2003, Chiu has worked with autistic people and their families. Since then, she's developed proficiency treating and supporting clients across the lifespan experiencing trauma, chronic pain & fatigue, loss & grief, anxiety & mood disorders and minority stress (eg. Autistic, ADHD, medically disabled, culturally diverse and trans & gender questioning persons). Clients describe Chiu as thorough, efficient, down-to-earth, and practical. She works with a strengths-based, trauma-informed, person-centred lens, offering a no-BS, affirming approach grounded in evidence-based therapeutic modalities.
0491 188 891 View 0491 188 891
Photo of Sue Drummond, Social Worker, AASW
Sue Drummond
Social Worker, AASW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have worked as an educator , counsellor and community development worker for 35 years .I have qualifications in Social work, Gestalt therapy , Internal Family Systems therapy and am an EMDR therapist . I have extensive experience supporting clients with depression and anxiety, grief and trauma. I support adolescents and adults . I believe that creating safety and trust between the client and myself is the most important aspect of therapy. I bring warmth and humour to my work with clients and have a gentle and empathic approach. Call me for a free 15 minute chat so you can check if I am a good fit for you .
I have worked as an educator , counsellor and community development worker for 35 years .I have qualifications in Social work, Gestalt therapy , Internal Family Systems therapy and am an EMDR therapist . I have extensive experience supporting clients with depression and anxiety, grief and trauma. I support adolescents and adults . I believe that creating safety and trust between the client and myself is the most important aspect of therapy. I bring warmth and humour to my work with clients and have a gentle and empathic approach. Call me for a free 15 minute chat so you can check if I am a good fit for you .
(03) 4422 4713 View (03) 4422 4713
Photo of Dave Segal, Counsellor, PACFA
Dave Segal
Counsellor, PACFA
Online Only
For individual work, I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, which helps you build psychological flexibility and live with more clarity, purpose, and balance.
If you’ve found yourself here, chances are something important isn’t feeling right—maybe in your relationship, your sense of self, or both. Whether you’re in a new relationship or have been together for decades, it’s common to feel stuck, disconnected, or unsure of how to move forward. And it’s not always easy to open up to friends, family, or even your partner. I offer a warm, collaborative space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported as we work together to create meaningful, lasting change—emotionally, mentally, and in the way you connect with others. Therapy isn’t about fixing you—it’s about supporting you.
For individual work, I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, which helps you build psychological flexibility and live with more clarity, purpose, and balance.
If you’ve found yourself here, chances are something important isn’t feeling right—maybe in your relationship, your sense of self, or both. Whether you’re in a new relationship or have been together for decades, it’s common to feel stuck, disconnected, or unsure of how to move forward. And it’s not always easy to open up to friends, family, or even your partner. I offer a warm, collaborative space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported as we work together to create meaningful, lasting change—emotionally, mentally, and in the way you connect with others. Therapy isn’t about fixing you—it’s about supporting you.
(07) 4085 9014 View (07) 4085 9014
Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists
How does acceptance and commitment therapy work?
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy encourages a person to listen to their self-talk. A person’s inner dialog can be indicative of how they treat themselves. ACT also encourages self-compassion; this can lead to a better understanding of negative thought patterns and emotional states. This understanding can then lead the individual to needed behavior change.

What are the goals of acceptance and commitment therapy?
The goal of acceptance and commitment is to expand a person’s psychological flexibility, a trait that encourages an individual to live in the present moment and to accept all their thoughts, feelings, and emotions, even ones that are difficult such as sadness and anxiety. In ACT, this acceptance is congruent with the individual’s values and beliefs.

Does acceptance and commitment therapy work for depression?
Acceptance and commitment therapy is effective for depression because it allows the individual to view their discomfort and suffering differently. Depressive feelings about relationship heartaches, for example, are a part of life. A despondent person learns to let go of their struggles and instead view their painful thoughts and feelings with compassion. This will lead the individual toward positive change.

How long are people typically in acceptance and commitment therapy?
A typical acceptance and commitment therapy session is 50 minutes long with one session per week. Treatment for common problems such as anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties can last between eight weeks to four months. However, more severe cases may require more than one session a week and/or a longer time frame for treatment.