Counselling in Melbourne, VIC

Hey, I'm Ess + I'm so stoked you're here. I offer a therapeutic space for rich self-exploration.
Individual therapy - deepen self-understanding, heal old patterns, access your inner resources, and enhance your sense of self.
Relationship counselling for couples, friends or family - strengthen your connection and learn how to collaborate in satisfying ways.
Peer support for queer folks - grow through shared experiences and mutual understanding.
Hey, I'm Ess + I'm so stoked you're here. I offer a therapeutic space for rich self-exploration.
Individual therapy - deepen self-understanding, heal old patterns, access your inner resources, and enhance your sense of self.
Relationship counselling for couples, friends or family - strengthen your connection and learn how to collaborate in satisfying ways.
Peer support for queer folks - grow through shared experiences and mutual understanding.

The key to successful therapy is the therapeutic relationship you and I develop over time. I know that you need to be seen, heard, validated and be able to trust me so I can provide you a safe trauma-informed care and practice. This model focuses on providing you with a safe space to explore and understand your life. I ask 'What happened to you?' and I bear witness to your story. I am an Accredited EMDR Practitioner (Consultant in training), Internal Family Systems Therapist (Level 2-Addictions), and a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (in training Advanced). I have also been a Program Assistant on IFSI trainings in Australia.
The key to successful therapy is the therapeutic relationship you and I develop over time. I know that you need to be seen, heard, validated and be able to trust me so I can provide you a safe trauma-informed care and practice. This model focuses on providing you with a safe space to explore and understand your life. I ask 'What happened to you?' and I bear witness to your story. I am an Accredited EMDR Practitioner (Consultant in training), Internal Family Systems Therapist (Level 2-Addictions), and a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (in training Advanced). I have also been a Program Assistant on IFSI trainings in Australia.

I am a Clinical Psychologist working for over 15 years across the private and public sector. I have worked extensively with adolescents, and adults to help them manage the effects of anxiety, depression, trauma, addictions, and relationship difficulties on their work, study, and personal lives.
I am a Clinical Psychologist working for over 15 years across the private and public sector. I have worked extensively with adolescents, and adults to help them manage the effects of anxiety, depression, trauma, addictions, and relationship difficulties on their work, study, and personal lives.

I am a registered psychologist with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and a Member of the Australian Psychological Society (MAPS). I am an empathetic and gentle practitioner who works collaboratively with clients to support them in leading meaningful and empowered lives.
I am a registered psychologist with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and a Member of the Australian Psychological Society (MAPS). I am an empathetic and gentle practitioner who works collaboratively with clients to support them in leading meaningful and empowered lives.

Malena is a registered Psychotherapist with a Degree in Psychology (Mexico). She has been working in private practice in Australia for more than fifteen years, and has more than 20 years experience working in mental health. She works with adults and with couples, and offers Sex therapy. Some of the issues she works with are emotional pain, depression, anxiety, stress and anger management, infidelity, separation, difference in sex drive. She provides a safe and understanding environment where her clients can express their emotions, feel understood and find their strength to overcome even the most adverse of the circumstances.
Malena is a registered Psychotherapist with a Degree in Psychology (Mexico). She has been working in private practice in Australia for more than fifteen years, and has more than 20 years experience working in mental health. She works with adults and with couples, and offers Sex therapy. Some of the issues she works with are emotional pain, depression, anxiety, stress and anger management, infidelity, separation, difference in sex drive. She provides a safe and understanding environment where her clients can express their emotions, feel understood and find their strength to overcome even the most adverse of the circumstances.

I work with a variety of people including those suffering depression and anxiety, PTSD and complex trauma, personality disorders including borderline personality disorder, as well as dissociative disorders and complex mood conditions. I also work frequently with OCD and sexual addictions/disorders. My approach is holistic and focused on identifying your needs and goals, and how we can best achieve these together. I am a clinical psychologist and focus strongly on the assessment process - I believe it's important to establish exactly what may be happening so that we are on the same page. Treatment is always tailored to the individual
I work with a variety of people including those suffering depression and anxiety, PTSD and complex trauma, personality disorders including borderline personality disorder, as well as dissociative disorders and complex mood conditions. I also work frequently with OCD and sexual addictions/disorders. My approach is holistic and focused on identifying your needs and goals, and how we can best achieve these together. I am a clinical psychologist and focus strongly on the assessment process - I believe it's important to establish exactly what may be happening so that we are on the same page. Treatment is always tailored to the individual

Dr Louise Du Chesne is an experienced clinical psychologist. She has worked extensively with people recovering from traumatic and painful events including family violence, sexual assault and childhood abuse and neglect. She works with couples and individuals around their intimate personal relationships as well as with individuals who experience addiction, anxiety and depression. She also had experience in supporting people with health challenges such as cancer. Louise has a long history of working with members of LGBTIQ++ community. She welcomes referrals for assistance regarding LGBTIQ++ adults, couples and adolescents.
Dr Louise Du Chesne is an experienced clinical psychologist. She has worked extensively with people recovering from traumatic and painful events including family violence, sexual assault and childhood abuse and neglect. She works with couples and individuals around their intimate personal relationships as well as with individuals who experience addiction, anxiety and depression. She also had experience in supporting people with health challenges such as cancer. Louise has a long history of working with members of LGBTIQ++ community. She welcomes referrals for assistance regarding LGBTIQ++ adults, couples and adolescents.

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.

Get help by seeing Doug, who has extensive experience with:
Anger Management
Antisocial Personality
Anxiety
Bi-polar
Borderline Personality Disorder
Depression,
Domestic Violence
Gambling
Intellectual Disability
Life Transitions
Relationship Issues
Self-esteem
Stress
Suicidal Ideation
Trauma
PTSD
Douglas Kirk is a registered psychologist with AHPRA. With a background in the corporate sector, he has spent the past
decade working with community services and mental health providers, delivering support to the most vulnerable
members of society.
Get help by seeing Doug, who has extensive experience with:
Anger Management
Antisocial Personality
Anxiety
Bi-polar
Borderline Personality Disorder
Depression,
Domestic Violence
Gambling
Intellectual Disability
Life Transitions
Relationship Issues
Self-esteem
Stress
Suicidal Ideation
Trauma
PTSD
Douglas Kirk is a registered psychologist with AHPRA. With a background in the corporate sector, he has spent the past
decade working with community services and mental health providers, delivering support to the most vulnerable
members of society.

At the heart of my work is the commitment to foster a therapeutic space where you as a woman can safely navigate through personal challenges, such as depression, grief, intimacy-related issues, expat difficulties, self-esteem, creative blockages, trauma and relationship issues.
At the heart of my work is the commitment to foster a therapeutic space where you as a woman can safely navigate through personal challenges, such as depression, grief, intimacy-related issues, expat difficulties, self-esteem, creative blockages, trauma and relationship issues.

I offer a safe space for expats, immigrants and the international community around Asia Pacific. As someone who moved to a new country (Japan) in the midst of the pandemic, I understand the complex feelings that come with moving homes, beginning a new journey and integrating into a new culture without losing what makes you unique. I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, low mood or loss of motivation, coping with life changes, trauma, grief & loss, and navigating loneliness/ relationships & dating life in a foreign city. I also draw from my 10 years of corporate experience in my approach to work-related issues.
I offer a safe space for expats, immigrants and the international community around Asia Pacific. As someone who moved to a new country (Japan) in the midst of the pandemic, I understand the complex feelings that come with moving homes, beginning a new journey and integrating into a new culture without losing what makes you unique. I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, low mood or loss of motivation, coping with life changes, trauma, grief & loss, and navigating loneliness/ relationships & dating life in a foreign city. I also draw from my 10 years of corporate experience in my approach to work-related issues.

If you're feeling weighed down by life's challenges, be it mental health, substance use or other addictions, identity, memories, ongoing stress, or cultural and systemic barriers—you're not alone. Whether you identify as BIPOC, bicultural, third-cultured, or another identity, this is a space where we can work together so your experiences feel heard and understood. Together, we can explore and process your past and/or present struggles—be it addiction, ongoing painful thoughts, generational patterns, discrimination, emotional processing, intense memories or finding your path forward. We work together to create a safe space for you.
If you're feeling weighed down by life's challenges, be it mental health, substance use or other addictions, identity, memories, ongoing stress, or cultural and systemic barriers—you're not alone. Whether you identify as BIPOC, bicultural, third-cultured, or another identity, this is a space where we can work together so your experiences feel heard and understood. Together, we can explore and process your past and/or present struggles—be it addiction, ongoing painful thoughts, generational patterns, discrimination, emotional processing, intense memories or finding your path forward. We work together to create a safe space for you.

I am a registered clinical psychologist with experience working with a wide range of mental health conditions. I work primarily with concerns such as anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, shame, guilt, and many other mental health issues. I have a special interest in supporting and empowering women with their mental health, in particular perinatal mental health support. I also support many of my clients with conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder, early life attachment trauma, and anxiety disorders.
I am a registered clinical psychologist with experience working with a wide range of mental health conditions. I work primarily with concerns such as anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, shame, guilt, and many other mental health issues. I have a special interest in supporting and empowering women with their mental health, in particular perinatal mental health support. I also support many of my clients with conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder, early life attachment trauma, and anxiety disorders.

Hi! I’m Jess Willcocks and I’m here to be able to assist you to live your best life. I say that partially joking, but I am here to work with individuals who want to have a deeper understanding of themselves and their behaviours. I want to help you to enrich your life and have the life you have always wanted. Together we will foster your self-awareness, explore your goals and dreams and unlock your full potential to create lasting and meaningful change.
Hi! I’m Jess Willcocks and I’m here to be able to assist you to live your best life. I say that partially joking, but I am here to work with individuals who want to have a deeper understanding of themselves and their behaviours. I want to help you to enrich your life and have the life you have always wanted. Together we will foster your self-awareness, explore your goals and dreams and unlock your full potential to create lasting and meaningful change.

Pilar is a Licensed psychologist with 31 years of experience. Her main accomplishment in her life is to be able to help thousands of people to improve their lives with therapy. She knows that when the clients follow the treatment for a period of time, they will feel better. The first session the clients will realize they are not alone any more with their problems, and if they are determined to continue, they will feel understood and will develop tools and emotional regulations, (specially planned for every client) ,to improve in general. Pilar as your therapist, will dedicate the time you need and as many sessions as you need.
Pilar is a Licensed psychologist with 31 years of experience. Her main accomplishment in her life is to be able to help thousands of people to improve their lives with therapy. She knows that when the clients follow the treatment for a period of time, they will feel better. The first session the clients will realize they are not alone any more with their problems, and if they are determined to continue, they will feel understood and will develop tools and emotional regulations, (specially planned for every client) ,to improve in general. Pilar as your therapist, will dedicate the time you need and as many sessions as you need.

You may have been struggling for some time. Something isn’t working and life could be better. You have probably tried all sorts of things on your own, but therapy can be a way for you to get a fresh perspective with the help of someone who has an expertise in mental health. I am a Clinical Psychologist who works with people experiencing low mood, anxiety, past trauma, chronic pain, other health conditions, OCD, relationship difficulties, and sleep problems, and those seeking therapy as a way to live a more meaningful life. Most of my clients experience improvements in symptoms after a course of therapy.
You may have been struggling for some time. Something isn’t working and life could be better. You have probably tried all sorts of things on your own, but therapy can be a way for you to get a fresh perspective with the help of someone who has an expertise in mental health. I am a Clinical Psychologist who works with people experiencing low mood, anxiety, past trauma, chronic pain, other health conditions, OCD, relationship difficulties, and sleep problems, and those seeking therapy as a way to live a more meaningful life. Most of my clients experience improvements in symptoms after a course of therapy.

I’m a Counselling Psychologist with 25 years experience holding Masters Degrees in Counselling Psych and Special Ed. Imagining my ideal client I see individuals/families seeking support for diverse challenges which may be manifesting as anxiety, depression, communication, eating disorders, low self-esteem or stress. Their needs are complex, reflecting their unique situations. Goals vary widely from anxiety management to enhancing parenting skills, however the underlying desire is to lead a more fulfilling life. Clients seek understanding and support as they navigate life's challenges, looking for tools and strategies to move forward
I’m a Counselling Psychologist with 25 years experience holding Masters Degrees in Counselling Psych and Special Ed. Imagining my ideal client I see individuals/families seeking support for diverse challenges which may be manifesting as anxiety, depression, communication, eating disorders, low self-esteem or stress. Their needs are complex, reflecting their unique situations. Goals vary widely from anxiety management to enhancing parenting skills, however the underlying desire is to lead a more fulfilling life. Clients seek understanding and support as they navigate life's challenges, looking for tools and strategies to move forward

Sometimes talking to someone can alleviate your issues. Danny is here to provide a little lift in your life. He deals with all types of presenting issues including depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, relationship/family problems, addictions and those that affect the LGBTIQA+ community. However, all presenting issues considered. NDIS, Victims of Crime, TAC, WorkCover & DVA clients are also available to be seen.
Sometimes talking to someone can alleviate your issues. Danny is here to provide a little lift in your life. He deals with all types of presenting issues including depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, relationship/family problems, addictions and those that affect the LGBTIQA+ community. However, all presenting issues considered. NDIS, Victims of Crime, TAC, WorkCover & DVA clients are also available to be seen.

Lucy takes a holistic, client-led approach to mental health and believes that therapy works best when clients feel genuinely safe, heard, and comfortable being themselves. She’s passionate about creating the kind of space that feels supportive and relaxed, yet still fosters honesty, curiosity, and self-compassion.
Her clinical interests include behaviour change and addictions, emotional regulation, anxiety (in all its forms), sleep, and mood and personality disorders. She also has further training in the Gottman Method (Level 1) and has a particular interest supporting clients working through relationship and attachment concerns.
Lucy takes a holistic, client-led approach to mental health and believes that therapy works best when clients feel genuinely safe, heard, and comfortable being themselves. She’s passionate about creating the kind of space that feels supportive and relaxed, yet still fosters honesty, curiosity, and self-compassion.
Her clinical interests include behaviour change and addictions, emotional regulation, anxiety (in all its forms), sleep, and mood and personality disorders. She also has further training in the Gottman Method (Level 1) and has a particular interest supporting clients working through relationship and attachment concerns.

Linda have particular expertise in identifying, assessing and supporting neurodivergence, such as Autism, ADHD and Specific Learning Disorders, across the lifespan. Linda are using evidence based tools and a warm and individualised approach.
Linda have particular expertise in identifying, assessing and supporting neurodivergence, such as Autism, ADHD and Specific Learning Disorders, across the lifespan. Linda are using evidence based tools and a warm and individualised approach.
See more therapy options for Melbourne
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Melbourne, VIC
1,000+
Average cost per session
$180
Counsellors in Melbourne, VIC who prioritize treating:
90% | Anxiety |
82% | Depression |
79% | Stress |
76% | Self Esteem |
75% | Relationship Issues |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
66% | Life Transitions |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
67% | Medicare Rebates |
49% | Bupa |
47% | NDIS |
How Counsellors in Melbourne, VIC see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
74% | Female | |
23% | Male | |
3% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Melbourne?
Search for nearby psychologists or counsellors by inputting your city, suburb, postcode, or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or postcode into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
Counsellors and Psychotherapists listed in the directory are members of the main professional associations, mainly the Australian Counselling Association and the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia. Psychologists must be registered in the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). Most Social Workers listed in the directory are members of the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW).
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given that professional memberships are not a statutory requirement for social workers, psychotherapists and counsellors in Australia, certain qualified professionals or organisations may choose not to maintain such memberships despite possessing the necessary qualifications. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given that professional memberships are not a statutory requirement for social workers, psychotherapists and counsellors in Australia, certain qualified professionals or organisations may choose not to maintain such memberships despite possessing the necessary qualifications. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counsellor?
Counsellors, psychotherapists and psychologists can all provide counselling or talking therapy and have credentials and experience that enable them to do so in Australia.
Psychologists have earned a 4 year undergraduate degree in psychology and have completed a postgraduate internship or postgraduate degree. Psychotherapists generally have an undergraduate degree in a health related field in addition to 3-4 years of specialist training in psychotherapy and a period of personal psychotherapy. In order to belong to a professional organisation such as the ACA or PACFA, counsellors and psychotherapists are required to have completed a certain level of AQF qualifications and/ or an approved training course as well as clinical and supervision hours. Social Workers registered with the AASW are required to have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Social Work from an accredited institution.
Psychologists have earned a 4 year undergraduate degree in psychology and have completed a postgraduate internship or postgraduate degree. Psychotherapists generally have an undergraduate degree in a health related field in addition to 3-4 years of specialist training in psychotherapy and a period of personal psychotherapy. In order to belong to a professional organisation such as the ACA or PACFA, counsellors and psychotherapists are required to have completed a certain level of AQF qualifications and/ or an approved training course as well as clinical and supervision hours. Social Workers registered with the AASW are required to have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Social Work from an accredited institution.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, the cost of a therapy session in Australia could be between $100 and $250. If you have private insurance, your plan may cover some if not all of your sessions. You should contact your insurance provider to determine if they provide coverage for therapy sessions and to determine what, if any, requirements they might have in order for your sessions to be covered, such as a referral from your GP or medical specialist.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. The Better Access Scheme is a government program offering Medicare rebates for mental health care. To access the program you will need to be assessed and diagnosed by your GP and get a Mental Health Plan. This will allow you to receive up to 10 individual sessions and 10 group sessions a year with practitioners who accept bulk billing, with no out of pocket costs for you.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. The Better Access Scheme is a government program offering Medicare rebates for mental health care. To access the program you will need to be assessed and diagnosed by your GP and get a Mental Health Plan. This will allow you to receive up to 10 individual sessions and 10 group sessions a year with practitioners who accept bulk billing, with no out of pocket costs for you.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your postcode.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Therapists who are part of a professional organisation such as the ACA, PACFA, or the APS are bound by an ethical framework that requires them to uphold a confidentiality agreement. Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship and only under specific circumstances, such as when there is the potential or known harm to the client or others or when a minor is in danger, will a therapist be obligated to break the agreement. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed during the initial consultation.