Female Counselling in Ivanhoe, VIC

Photo of Laura Petrie, Social Worker, AMHSW
Laura Petrie
Social Worker, AMHSW
Ivanhoe, VIC 3079
Do you experience aspects of your life as dissatisfying or distressing, this may feel like depression, anxiety, hopelessness or a pervasive self criticism? Such dissatisfaction and distress can be supported through Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy. Laura's focus is the development of a safe, trusting and reliable relationship which becomes the basis for exploring your thoughts and feelings, and generating insights about the sources of your personal struggles. Generating insights open new opportunities for more satisfying connections to self and others, and greater life choices.
Do you experience aspects of your life as dissatisfying or distressing, this may feel like depression, anxiety, hopelessness or a pervasive self criticism? Such dissatisfaction and distress can be supported through Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy. Laura's focus is the development of a safe, trusting and reliable relationship which becomes the basis for exploring your thoughts and feelings, and generating insights about the sources of your personal struggles. Generating insights open new opportunities for more satisfying connections to self and others, and greater life choices.
(03) 8797 5226 View (03) 8797 5226
Photo of Julia McFarlane, Psychotherapist, MA, AThR
Julia McFarlane
Psychotherapist, MA, AThR
Ivanhoe, VIC 3079
Addressing the stigma and isolation associated with mental illness involves advocating for other ways of thinking, knowing, and doing. Julia values this when working with people who have been told their thinking, knowing, or doing is wrong, meeting a basic human need for connection and acceptance. She has developed individual and group therapy programs in community mental health and inpatient settings with people experiencing depression, psychosis, PTSD, agoraphobia, eating disorders, AOD issues, forensic histories, and homelessness.
Addressing the stigma and isolation associated with mental illness involves advocating for other ways of thinking, knowing, and doing. Julia values this when working with people who have been told their thinking, knowing, or doing is wrong, meeting a basic human need for connection and acceptance. She has developed individual and group therapy programs in community mental health and inpatient settings with people experiencing depression, psychosis, PTSD, agoraphobia, eating disorders, AOD issues, forensic histories, and homelessness.
0415 268 367 View 0415 268 367
Photo of Danielle Cerra, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Danielle Cerra
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Ivanhoe, VIC 3079
Every person’s story is unique, and you deserve support that aligns with your own goals and values. I use a person-centred approach that places you at the centre of our work together, offering insight, compassion, and practical guidance. If you’re navigating a life transition, motherhood, career or relationship changes, stress and anxiety, a health concern, or simply feeling a little lost or overwhelmed, counselling can offer a calm, caring space to breathe, reflect, and find your way forward. I offer confidential, compassionate counselling to help you regain clarity, confidence, and calm during challenging seasons of life.
Every person’s story is unique, and you deserve support that aligns with your own goals and values. I use a person-centred approach that places you at the centre of our work together, offering insight, compassion, and practical guidance. If you’re navigating a life transition, motherhood, career or relationship changes, stress and anxiety, a health concern, or simply feeling a little lost or overwhelmed, counselling can offer a calm, caring space to breathe, reflect, and find your way forward. I offer confidential, compassionate counselling to help you regain clarity, confidence, and calm during challenging seasons of life.
(03) 9111 2623 View (03) 9111 2623
Photo of Vanessa Kugathasan, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Vanessa Kugathasan
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Ivanhoe, VIC 3079
I am a clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience, I have had the privilege of working with a wide array of difficulties across different settings, from youth and adult community mental health to hospitals within the public sector. Over the years, I have transitioned to private practice, where I have supported clients dealing with a range of issues from depression and anxiety to relationship challenges, stress, and chronic illnesses.
I am a clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience, I have had the privilege of working with a wide array of difficulties across different settings, from youth and adult community mental health to hospitals within the public sector. Over the years, I have transitioned to private practice, where I have supported clients dealing with a range of issues from depression and anxiety to relationship challenges, stress, and chronic illnesses.
(03) 8400 0598 View (03) 8400 0598
Photo of Danielle Sellick - Sellick Psychology , Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Sellick Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Ivanhoe, VIC 3079
Sellick Psychology is a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering top-quality psychological care to individuals from all walks of life. Guided by our core values of compassion, courage, and connection, we strive to make a positive impact on your mental well-being.
Sellick Psychology is a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering top-quality psychological care to individuals from all walks of life. Guided by our core values of compassion, courage, and connection, we strive to make a positive impact on your mental well-being.
(03) 7003 2236 View (03) 7003 2236
Photo of Alix Quirke, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Alix Quirke
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Ivanhoe, VIC 3079
I work with clients in-person from Ivanhoe, Victoria and online, Australia-wide through our Better Forest clinic. I am a registered General Psychologist with experience supporting children, adolescents, adults, older adults and families. I have expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of mood, anxiety, adjustment disorders and trauma (PTSD). I also work to support interpersonal difficulties and the long-term effects of personality patterns of behaviour.
I work with clients in-person from Ivanhoe, Victoria and online, Australia-wide through our Better Forest clinic. I am a registered General Psychologist with experience supporting children, adolescents, adults, older adults and families. I have expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of mood, anxiety, adjustment disorders and trauma (PTSD). I also work to support interpersonal difficulties and the long-term effects of personality patterns of behaviour.
(03) 9007 2136 View (03) 9007 2136
Photo of Michelle Morris, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Michelle Morris
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Ivanhoe, VIC 3079
At different times in our lives we may need support and guidance. This may be to overcome unhelpful patterns or resolve painful emotions. I offer a safe space and through a collaborative approach I assist people to relate to their thoughts and feelings in more skillful ways, reconnect with their inner resources and strengths. My Family Therapy training enables me to help people develop more fulfilling relationships.
At different times in our lives we may need support and guidance. This may be to overcome unhelpful patterns or resolve painful emotions. I offer a safe space and through a collaborative approach I assist people to relate to their thoughts and feelings in more skillful ways, reconnect with their inner resources and strengths. My Family Therapy training enables me to help people develop more fulfilling relationships.
(03) 9034 8449 View (03) 9034 8449
Photo of Rosie Marks, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Rosie Marks
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Ivanhoe, VIC 3079
Hello, I'm Rosie (she/her), I support adults (21yrs +) with a range of mental health concerns including eating disorders, disordered eating, ADHD, anxiety, depression, traumatic stress, low self-esteem and burnout.
Hello, I'm Rosie (she/her), I support adults (21yrs +) with a range of mental health concerns including eating disorders, disordered eating, ADHD, anxiety, depression, traumatic stress, low self-esteem and burnout.
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Photo of Davina Morley, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Davina Morley
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Online Only
I am a queer relationship therapist and registered psychologist, working with LGBTIQA+ people (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer, questioning, asexual, and including pansexual, non-binary, and people of diverse sexuality, gender and bodies who use other words to describe themselves or do not label their sexuality or gender). I work with relationships and couples of all sexualities, genders, bodies, and non-monogamous and polyamorous structures including relationship anarchy. I understand barriers to accessing services that marginalised people face, and I try to be as safe as possible for you in therapy.
I am a queer relationship therapist and registered psychologist, working with LGBTIQA+ people (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer, questioning, asexual, and including pansexual, non-binary, and people of diverse sexuality, gender and bodies who use other words to describe themselves or do not label their sexuality or gender). I work with relationships and couples of all sexualities, genders, bodies, and non-monogamous and polyamorous structures including relationship anarchy. I understand barriers to accessing services that marginalised people face, and I try to be as safe as possible for you in therapy.
(03) 8413 7355 View (03) 8413 7355
Photo of Nicole Stavridis - The Playful Therapist, Psychotherapist
The Playful Therapist
Psychotherapist
Serves Area
The Playful Therapist is dedicated to providing children with a safe, nurturing space to express emotions, build resilience, and thrive through play. Supporting parents with tailored strategies, we focus on empowering emotional wellness for the whole family. Specialising in anxiety, stress management, early toileting fears, parent-child relationships, pretend play skills, and fostering social connections, we help children develop confidence, emotional wellbeing, and essential social skills for life.
The Playful Therapist is dedicated to providing children with a safe, nurturing space to express emotions, build resilience, and thrive through play. Supporting parents with tailored strategies, we focus on empowering emotional wellness for the whole family. Specialising in anxiety, stress management, early toileting fears, parent-child relationships, pretend play skills, and fostering social connections, we help children develop confidence, emotional wellbeing, and essential social skills for life.
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Photo of Robyn Frances Tongue - Robyn Tongue - PAWS Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Robyn Tongue - PAWS Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Is your child navigating challenges like anxiety, low mood, ADHD, or school refusal? Perhaps you’re an adult seeking ADHD coaching or looking for Autism, ADHD, or educational assessments for yourself or a loved one. At PAWS Psychology, our therapy animals, dogs Bella & Teddy, and cats Skye & Cloud, provide comfort and companionship, creating a calming, supportive environment. Whether your goal is improving emotional regulation, building confidence, or achieving personal or academic success, you’ll feel understood and empowered on your journey to thrive.
Is your child navigating challenges like anxiety, low mood, ADHD, or school refusal? Perhaps you’re an adult seeking ADHD coaching or looking for Autism, ADHD, or educational assessments for yourself or a loved one. At PAWS Psychology, our therapy animals, dogs Bella & Teddy, and cats Skye & Cloud, provide comfort and companionship, creating a calming, supportive environment. Whether your goal is improving emotional regulation, building confidence, or achieving personal or academic success, you’ll feel understood and empowered on your journey to thrive.
(03) 8400 0752 View (03) 8400 0752
Photo of Cherie Apers - Life Minded Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Life Minded Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
We are here to help with the following: anxiety, depression, low mood, panic, stress, low confidence, PTSD, intrusive thoughts, grief/loss, relationship or family difficulties, emotional expression challenges, health concerns, sleep issues, work/life balance struggles, and strategies for Autism or ADHD. Cherie, Laura and Alana are here to help!
We are here to help with the following: anxiety, depression, low mood, panic, stress, low confidence, PTSD, intrusive thoughts, grief/loss, relationship or family difficulties, emotional expression challenges, health concerns, sleep issues, work/life balance struggles, and strategies for Autism or ADHD. Cherie, Laura and Alana are here to help!
(03) 8400 0493 View (03) 8400 0493
Photo of Prue Lewis, Psychologist, PsyBA Endorsed
Prue Lewis
Psychologist, PsyBA Endorsed
Serves Area
Currently accepting new clients for in-person and telehealth appointments. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, panic, depression, sleep problems, chronic health issues, or diagnosed or suspected ADHD, we are here to help. Living with mental health concerns is difficult, but we want you to know you’re not alone. At our practice, we provide an accepting, safe and supportive environment for you to explore your challenges, and help you develop practical skills and strategies to improve your wellbeing.
Currently accepting new clients for in-person and telehealth appointments. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, panic, depression, sleep problems, chronic health issues, or diagnosed or suspected ADHD, we are here to help. Living with mental health concerns is difficult, but we want you to know you’re not alone. At our practice, we provide an accepting, safe and supportive environment for you to explore your challenges, and help you develop practical skills and strategies to improve your wellbeing.
(03) 8594 4040 View (03) 8594 4040
Photo of Kate McLellan - Curam Psychology, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Curam Psychology
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Serves Area
My approach to working with clients is collaborative and caring. I believe that the relationship between a client and therapist is one of the most important factors to successful therapy and building a strong, trusting foundation is key. I really enjoy supporting people to work through the emotional blocks which are preventing them from living their fullest life. The focus of my work is usually around developing an understanding a client's story and their unmet needs, supporting them to meet those needs, develop compassion for themselves, and cope with challenges.
My approach to working with clients is collaborative and caring. I believe that the relationship between a client and therapist is one of the most important factors to successful therapy and building a strong, trusting foundation is key. I really enjoy supporting people to work through the emotional blocks which are preventing them from living their fullest life. The focus of my work is usually around developing an understanding a client's story and their unmet needs, supporting them to meet those needs, develop compassion for themselves, and cope with challenges.
(03) 8400 0893 View (03) 8400 0893
Photo of Bel Fin - Bel Fin, Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Bel Fin
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
I help adults and teens with issues around people, meaning and inner peace. I specialise in parenting, relationships, existential & childhood trauma. Bring yr history, strengths & struggles; I bring presence, training & curiosity. Together, we explore your patterns & find ways to unstick things. Change happens in what we notice & in what we create together. I work with people including Adolescents seeking deeper connection & healing, whatever yr identity. Based on neurobiology, attachment theory, Family Systems, Parts work (like ifs) & Somatic therapy to help you create a life that feels more yours. New appts open in December.
I help adults and teens with issues around people, meaning and inner peace. I specialise in parenting, relationships, existential & childhood trauma. Bring yr history, strengths & struggles; I bring presence, training & curiosity. Together, we explore your patterns & find ways to unstick things. Change happens in what we notice & in what we create together. I work with people including Adolescents seeking deeper connection & healing, whatever yr identity. Based on neurobiology, attachment theory, Family Systems, Parts work (like ifs) & Somatic therapy to help you create a life that feels more yours. New appts open in December.
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Photo of Clare Galdes, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Clare Galdes
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Online Only
Hello and welcome! I’m Clare, an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and Therapist offering telehealth therapy to adults and young adults across Australia. My practice focuses on three key areas: addiction and trauma, neurodiversity, and parenting. I work with people navigating the complex intersections of these experiences whether you’re managing a dual diagnosis, supporting a neurodivergent child, or healing from past trauma while trying to stay present in your daily life. While these are my areas of specialty, I also support people with a wide range of challenges including anxiety, depression, grief and life transitions.
Hello and welcome! I’m Clare, an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and Therapist offering telehealth therapy to adults and young adults across Australia. My practice focuses on three key areas: addiction and trauma, neurodiversity, and parenting. I work with people navigating the complex intersections of these experiences whether you’re managing a dual diagnosis, supporting a neurodivergent child, or healing from past trauma while trying to stay present in your daily life. While these are my areas of specialty, I also support people with a wide range of challenges including anxiety, depression, grief and life transitions.
(03) 7003 2777 View (03) 7003 2777
Photo of Sarah Brooke, Social Worker, AMHSW
Sarah Brooke
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
Welcome! Sarah is a Mental Health Social Worker, Somatic Psychotherapist and Sensorimotor Art Therapist with specialist training in complex trauma and post-traumatic growth. Working in this field for over 15 years, she has professional training in mindfulness-based somatic psychotherapy (Hakomi), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Sensorimotor Art Therapy and also psychedelic 'Bad Trip Integration'. She works with nature, creativity, dreams, spiritual growth, humour and compassionate curiosity. Her approach is strongly influenced by attachment and trauma theories, therefore the relationship is seen as key in the therapeutic process.
Welcome! Sarah is a Mental Health Social Worker, Somatic Psychotherapist and Sensorimotor Art Therapist with specialist training in complex trauma and post-traumatic growth. Working in this field for over 15 years, she has professional training in mindfulness-based somatic psychotherapy (Hakomi), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Sensorimotor Art Therapy and also psychedelic 'Bad Trip Integration'. She works with nature, creativity, dreams, spiritual growth, humour and compassionate curiosity. Her approach is strongly influenced by attachment and trauma theories, therefore the relationship is seen as key in the therapeutic process.
(03) 9068 6031 View (03) 9068 6031
Photo of Michele Watson, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Michele Watson
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Hi, my name's Michele and I offer counselling and psychotherapy to adults who are experiencing emotional distress that prevents them from functioning well in their work and personal lives. You may want to see a psychologist if you are experiencing excessive worry, panicky feelings, low mood, low energy or loss of interest in things. You might be going through a life transition, experiencing grief after a loss or having relationship difficulties. You may have grown up having painful and difficult experiences early in life which prevent you from functioning freely and creatively, or from forming positive relationships with others.
Hi, my name's Michele and I offer counselling and psychotherapy to adults who are experiencing emotional distress that prevents them from functioning well in their work and personal lives. You may want to see a psychologist if you are experiencing excessive worry, panicky feelings, low mood, low energy or loss of interest in things. You might be going through a life transition, experiencing grief after a loss or having relationship difficulties. You may have grown up having painful and difficult experiences early in life which prevent you from functioning freely and creatively, or from forming positive relationships with others.
(03) 8595 5351 View (03) 8595 5351
Photo of Louise Pearson - Louise Pearson Counselling, Counsellor, AMHSW
Louise Pearson Counselling
Counsellor, AMHSW
Serves Area
Perhaps you are dealing with grief or bereavement, chronic illness or disability, are having relationship difficulties or are struggling with anxiety and depression. Perhaps you are simply feeling the need for change in your life but are unsure of what that change might look like. I work with a wide range of people and issues, always starting from where you are at. I believe that when you feel supported, positive change can occur.
Perhaps you are dealing with grief or bereavement, chronic illness or disability, are having relationship difficulties or are struggling with anxiety and depression. Perhaps you are simply feeling the need for change in your life but are unsure of what that change might look like. I work with a wide range of people and issues, always starting from where you are at. I believe that when you feel supported, positive change can occur.
(03) 7003 2875 View (03) 7003 2875
Photo of Andrea Murray, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Andrea Murray
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Serves Area
I am a registered counsellor specialising in addictions treatment, couples counselling including betrayal trauma, and pre-marriage counselling. My specialisation is sex and love addiction. I have worked overseas in Asia for a number of years and understand adjustment struggles.
I am a registered counsellor specialising in addictions treatment, couples counselling including betrayal trauma, and pre-marriage counselling. My specialisation is sex and love addiction. I have worked overseas in Asia for a number of years and understand adjustment struggles.
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Female Therapists

Does it matter what gender my therapist is?

In general, there is no relationship between a therapist’s gender and their efficacy. Some clients, however, prefer to see therapists of a particular gender, whether due to their own past experiences with men and women, or because they feel more comfortable with a therapist of their own gender due to shared life experiences or perspectives. Considering what one wants to address in therapy can help someone determine whether their therapist’s gender may matter or improve their therapeutic experience. The most important consideration is that a client is able to build a trusting relationship with their therapist.

Should I see a female therapist?

Many people—not just women—prefer to see a female therapist. For women, this could be because they believe that they will be able to better connect with a woman, and that a female therapist will be able to relate to their specific challenges and personal issues. It may be particularly beneficial for women to see a female therapist, for example, for gender-specific issues, such as sexism in the workplace, relationship issues, and gender roles. The most important factor in therapy is the client-therapist connection, and a therapist's gender as well as many other factors may play an important role in this.

Do therapists get specific training to help with women’s concerns?

Therapists are trained to provide care to clients of any gender. However, some therapists may pursue additional training in feminist therapy, gender-specific issues, or women’s mental health. Female clients may wish to ask prospective therapists whether they have received specific training in the client’s primary area(s) of concern, or whether they have worked extensively with women on issues similar to their own.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience in treating women?

It’s OK—even encouraged!—to ask a therapist directly whether and how often they have treated women in the past, or whether they have treated women dealing with the client’s most prominent concern(s). Competent therapists will be happy to share their educational background, preferred treatment modalities, and prior client experience to help an individual find the therapist best suited to their needs.