Psychodynamic Psychologists and Therapists in Melbourne, VIC

George Choipel
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Melbourne, VIC 3000
I work with adults and young people experiencing stress and anxiety, depression, grief and loss, emotional dysregulation, trauma, or difficulties with behaviour change and substance use. Many clients feel overwhelmed, stuck, or affected by past experiences that continue to shape their thoughts, emotions, and relationships. They want relief, clarity, and practical ways to cope, while also wanting to feel understood and respected. I support people seeking stability, insight, and sustainable change at a pace that feels safe.
I work with adults and young people experiencing stress and anxiety, depression, grief and loss, emotional dysregulation, trauma, or difficulties with behaviour change and substance use. Many clients feel overwhelmed, stuck, or affected by past experiences that continue to shape their thoughts, emotions, and relationships. They want relief, clarity, and practical ways to cope, while also wanting to feel understood and respected. I support people seeking stability, insight, and sustainable change at a pace that feels safe.
0410 799 803 View 0410 799 803
Photo of Andrew Macdonald, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Andrew Macdonald
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Online Only
Hi, I'm Andrew and thanks for stopping by. With over 15 years counselling experience, I am a registered clinical psychotherapist with the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia. My experience includes working with clients from all walks of life in helping them make sense of the things that are getting in the way. My approach is supportive and grounded in an evidenced based integrative model. Client's have said that in working with me they feel cared for, safe and able to talk about things that are challenging them. I provide health insurance rebates for most providers.
Hi, I'm Andrew and thanks for stopping by. With over 15 years counselling experience, I am a registered clinical psychotherapist with the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia. My experience includes working with clients from all walks of life in helping them make sense of the things that are getting in the way. My approach is supportive and grounded in an evidenced based integrative model. Client's have said that in working with me they feel cared for, safe and able to talk about things that are challenging them. I provide health insurance rebates for most providers.
(03) 7003 2204 View (03) 7003 2204
Claudelle Shaw Counselling
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Online Only
At Claudelle Shaw Counselling, you are met with respect, empathy, and care. I offer a calm, confidential space where individuals and couples can explore what may be holding them back, gain insight into their emotions, and begin moving forward with greater clarity and confidence. My client-centred approach is grounded in collaboration, understanding, and evidence-based support. Working together at your pace, we focus on building resilience, rebuilding trust in yourself, and developing practical strategies that support meaningful and lasting change. The aim is not just to cope, but to help you reconnect with your authentic self.
At Claudelle Shaw Counselling, you are met with respect, empathy, and care. I offer a calm, confidential space where individuals and couples can explore what may be holding them back, gain insight into their emotions, and begin moving forward with greater clarity and confidence. My client-centred approach is grounded in collaboration, understanding, and evidence-based support. Working together at your pace, we focus on building resilience, rebuilding trust in yourself, and developing practical strategies that support meaningful and lasting change. The aim is not just to cope, but to help you reconnect with your authentic self.
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Photo of Zhamilya's Stamkulova - Zhamilya's Counseling, Counsellor, PACFA
Zhamilya's Counseling
Counsellor, PACFA
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I am super passionate about my work as a Counsellor after many years of working in the corporate world left me searching for a more fulfilling and meaningful career. I find that so many of my clients echo this search – in addition to wanting to address their day-to-day life struggles – they are searching for something more. And this is where I love to be, fully attentive, empathising with my clients but most of all working alongside them to explore ways of improving all aspects of their lives, be that work, relationships, childhood attachment wounds or trauma.
I am super passionate about my work as a Counsellor after many years of working in the corporate world left me searching for a more fulfilling and meaningful career. I find that so many of my clients echo this search – in addition to wanting to address their day-to-day life struggles – they are searching for something more. And this is where I love to be, fully attentive, empathising with my clients but most of all working alongside them to explore ways of improving all aspects of their lives, be that work, relationships, childhood attachment wounds or trauma.
(03) 9994 1757 View (03) 9994 1757
Photo of Monica Doyle - Monica Doyle - Online Therapy
Monica Doyle - Online Therapy
Verified Verified
Online Only
To achieve that I use relational psychodynamic therapy.
Do you feel on edge, easily distracted, or irritable? Do you catch yourself overanalyzing and questioning decisions or interactions with other people? Do you feel disconnected, lonely, or unsure of yourself? These are all natural feelings, and we all struggle sometimes. But occasionally life throws curve balls at us and moving forward requires a little more work. This can be especially true if you have recently experienced a significant life change. Therapy can offer the needed support and change of perspective by unveiling new insights. It can also bring lasting benefits to your relationships and interactions.
To achieve that I use relational psychodynamic therapy.
Do you feel on edge, easily distracted, or irritable? Do you catch yourself overanalyzing and questioning decisions or interactions with other people? Do you feel disconnected, lonely, or unsure of yourself? These are all natural feelings, and we all struggle sometimes. But occasionally life throws curve balls at us and moving forward requires a little more work. This can be especially true if you have recently experienced a significant life change. Therapy can offer the needed support and change of perspective by unveiling new insights. It can also bring lasting benefits to your relationships and interactions.
0485 990 706 View 0485 990 706
Photo of Nishie Govender - Nishie - WorkSafe & Medicare Clinical Psychologist, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Nishie - WorkSafe & Medicare Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
3 Endorsed
Melbourne, VIC 3004
I focus on workers' compensation/injuries and women's mental health. I am a registered clinical psychologist with over 12 years of experience in both clinical and organisational psychology. Recognising individual beliefs, experiences, and cultures is at the core of my practice. I provide support in a non-judgmental and friendly environment, allowing clients to share and work through barriers uniquely.
I focus on workers' compensation/injuries and women's mental health. I am a registered clinical psychologist with over 12 years of experience in both clinical and organisational psychology. Recognising individual beliefs, experiences, and cultures is at the core of my practice. I provide support in a non-judgmental and friendly environment, allowing clients to share and work through barriers uniquely.
(03) 7003 2697 View (03) 7003 2697
Photo of Magdalena Lopez, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Magdalena Lopez
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Melbourne, VIC 3004
My approach is psychodynamic and helps with not only creating personalized strategies to suit your needs but also generating deeper insights to the root-cause of your concerns.
As your Psychologist, I will help you navigate any difficulties and struggles you may be experiencing whether its at home, at work or in life in general. I will point you in the best direction with helpful strategies and insights so that you feel less anxious, confused or down. I can help with you a variety of concerns such as self-esteem, anxiety, depression, relationships, career, loss and more.
My approach is psychodynamic and helps with not only creating personalized strategies to suit your needs but also generating deeper insights to the root-cause of your concerns.
As your Psychologist, I will help you navigate any difficulties and struggles you may be experiencing whether its at home, at work or in life in general. I will point you in the best direction with helpful strategies and insights so that you feel less anxious, confused or down. I can help with you a variety of concerns such as self-esteem, anxiety, depression, relationships, career, loss and more.
(03) 9529 1361 View (03) 9529 1361
Photo of Kamila Schneltser, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Kamila Schneltser
Psychotherapist, PACFA
7 Endorsed
Melbourne, VIC 3000
My approach integrates a rich tapestry of therapeutic modalities through a strength-based foundation weaving in symbolic work, attachment-based models, trauma-based therapy, and psychodynamic therapy tailored to empower you on your journey toward healing.
At the heart of my work is the commitment to foster a therapeutic space where you can safely navigate through personal challenges, such as relationship issues, attachment difficulties, expat immigration hardships, trauma, grief and depression. My practice is open to people of all genders, backgrounds, and identities, and I aim to create a safe, supportive space for each individual’s unique experience.
My approach integrates a rich tapestry of therapeutic modalities through a strength-based foundation weaving in symbolic work, attachment-based models, trauma-based therapy, and psychodynamic therapy tailored to empower you on your journey toward healing.
At the heart of my work is the commitment to foster a therapeutic space where you can safely navigate through personal challenges, such as relationship issues, attachment difficulties, expat immigration hardships, trauma, grief and depression. My practice is open to people of all genders, backgrounds, and identities, and I aim to create a safe, supportive space for each individual’s unique experience.
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Photo of Cody Tonkin, Psychologist, MPsych, Assoc MAPS
Cody Tonkin
Psychologist, MPsych, Assoc MAPS
Online Only
Cody's approach is integrative she she uses therapies like CBT, ACT, Psychodynamic therapy, Interpersonal therapy, Schema therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS) and EMDR.
Cody is a registered psychologist who likes to focus on understanding how your past can influence your present and to help you to develop a deeper sense of self. Part of the work is to also uncover patterns that have developed over time that can be transformed into healthier ways of being. Cody looks at the roots of an issue and works towards long lasting change. Cody works with a range of presentations including anxiety, stress, trauma and childhood trauma, life adjustments, depression, grief & loss, coping skills, life coaching, interpersonal or relationship difficulties and supervision.
Cody's approach is integrative she she uses therapies like CBT, ACT, Psychodynamic therapy, Interpersonal therapy, Schema therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS) and EMDR.
Cody is a registered psychologist who likes to focus on understanding how your past can influence your present and to help you to develop a deeper sense of self. Part of the work is to also uncover patterns that have developed over time that can be transformed into healthier ways of being. Cody looks at the roots of an issue and works towards long lasting change. Cody works with a range of presentations including anxiety, stress, trauma and childhood trauma, life adjustments, depression, grief & loss, coping skills, life coaching, interpersonal or relationship difficulties and supervision.
(03) 9118 9048 View (03) 9118 9048
Photo of Kenneth Love - Kenneth Love - People Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Kenneth Love - People Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Online Only
Get help by seeing Ken, who has extensive experience with: Depression Anxiety Disorders Panic Attacks Anger Management Complex trauma including PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) Stress Adjustment Disorders Early Attachment Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Phobias (fear of specific things/situations) Grief and Loss Domestic Violence and Domestic Abuse Sexual Abuse Sexual Assault Psychological Counselling and Support to First Responders Victims of Crime Coping with Pain and Pain Management Meaning and Purpose Life Transitions Somatic Symptom Disorders Dissociative Identity Disorder Mood Disorders
Get help by seeing Ken, who has extensive experience with: Depression Anxiety Disorders Panic Attacks Anger Management Complex trauma including PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) Stress Adjustment Disorders Early Attachment Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Phobias (fear of specific things/situations) Grief and Loss Domestic Violence and Domestic Abuse Sexual Abuse Sexual Assault Psychological Counselling and Support to First Responders Victims of Crime Coping with Pain and Pain Management Meaning and Purpose Life Transitions Somatic Symptom Disorders Dissociative Identity Disorder Mood Disorders
(03) 9133 0996 View (03) 9133 0996
Photo of Malena Gutierrez, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Malena Gutierrez
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Melbourne, VIC 3000
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.
(02) 4504 0229 View (02) 4504 0229
Photo of Dr Archna Ranganathan, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Dr Archna Ranganathan
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My approach is collaborative and tailored, drawing on CBT, ACT, Schema Therapy, EMDR, DBT-informed strategies, mindfulness, psychodynamic, solution-focused, and person-centred therapy to build insight, coping skills, and confidence.
You might be feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, low mood, panic, OCD, relationship stress, or long-standing patterns that affect emotions, self-worth, trauma or how you relate to others. You want a calm, supportive space to make sense of what’s going on, feel understood, and build practical coping tools. Your goals are to feel more steady, improve relationships, process difficult experiences, and move toward a more meaningful, balanced life.
My approach is collaborative and tailored, drawing on CBT, ACT, Schema Therapy, EMDR, DBT-informed strategies, mindfulness, psychodynamic, solution-focused, and person-centred therapy to build insight, coping skills, and confidence.
You might be feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, low mood, panic, OCD, relationship stress, or long-standing patterns that affect emotions, self-worth, trauma or how you relate to others. You want a calm, supportive space to make sense of what’s going on, feel understood, and build practical coping tools. Your goals are to feel more steady, improve relationships, process difficult experiences, and move toward a more meaningful, balanced life.
1300 252 064 View 1300 252 064
Photo of Zoë Hancock - Sex-EQ | Clinical Sexology | Psychosexual Therapy , Social Worker, AASW
Zoë uses an integrative evidenced based intuitive approach incorporating psychosexual, psychodynamic & somatic practice models.
Zoë is a registered & experienced Clinical Sexologist, Psychosexual Therapist, Sex & Relationship Therapist, the founder & principal practitioner of Sex-EQ with over 25 years psychotherapeutic experience. She can support you with issues regarding sex, sexuality, relationships, dating & sexually related mental health concerns. Do you desire enhanced trust, connection, communication, eroticism, vitality, safe sexual play, or to feel more connected to your body or find greater life purpose? Zoë offers years of wisdom, knowledge, & useful tools to help you enrich or transform your life within a safe, sex-positive, empathic space.
Zoë uses an integrative evidenced based intuitive approach incorporating psychosexual, psychodynamic & somatic practice models.
Zoë is a registered & experienced Clinical Sexologist, Psychosexual Therapist, Sex & Relationship Therapist, the founder & principal practitioner of Sex-EQ with over 25 years psychotherapeutic experience. She can support you with issues regarding sex, sexuality, relationships, dating & sexually related mental health concerns. Do you desire enhanced trust, connection, communication, eroticism, vitality, safe sexual play, or to feel more connected to your body or find greater life purpose? Zoë offers years of wisdom, knowledge, & useful tools to help you enrich or transform your life within a safe, sex-positive, empathic space.
(08) 9126 9400 View (08) 9126 9400
Photo of Maggie Hall, Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Maggie Hall
Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
1 Endorsed
Melbourne, VIC 3004
Dr Maggie Hall is the founder of Inner South Psychology. She is an experienced clinical psychologist who uses a non-judgmental and empathetic approach to treat a wide variety of difficulties in adults of all ages. She has expertise in the treatment of anxiety and depression as well as stress, relationship difficulties, low self esteem, adjustment, life transitions, problems at work, sleep difficulties, loss, grief, addictions and managing difficult emotions.
Dr Maggie Hall is the founder of Inner South Psychology. She is an experienced clinical psychologist who uses a non-judgmental and empathetic approach to treat a wide variety of difficulties in adults of all ages. She has expertise in the treatment of anxiety and depression as well as stress, relationship difficulties, low self esteem, adjustment, life transitions, problems at work, sleep difficulties, loss, grief, addictions and managing difficult emotions.
(03) 9111 5312 View (03) 9111 5312
Photo of Makakhiwe N Masuku - Growing Small Counselling, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Growing Small Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My approach integrates somatic-based and internal family system practices, CBT tools, psychodynamic reflection, and expressive therapies.
Therapy with Growing Small Counselling is relational, respectful, and at your pace. Offering trauma-informed, culturally responsive counselling experiences that honours where you’ve been and helps you explore where you’d like to go. Growing Small Counselling, works with individuals 18+, of all cultural and intersecting backgrounds.
My approach integrates somatic-based and internal family system practices, CBT tools, psychodynamic reflection, and expressive therapies.
Therapy with Growing Small Counselling is relational, respectful, and at your pace. Offering trauma-informed, culturally responsive counselling experiences that honours where you’ve been and helps you explore where you’d like to go. Growing Small Counselling, works with individuals 18+, of all cultural and intersecting backgrounds.
(03) 7302 2184 View (03) 7302 2184
Photo of Julia Derry, Counsellor, MSc
Julia Derry
Counsellor, MSc
Melbourne, VIC 3000
I work with adults who are experiencing difficulties with issues such as anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, grief and loss, identity issues, anger management, low self-esteem, coping and adjustment issues, parenting issues, well being and self care. I think it can be healing to be given a space with someone who wants to sit with you through challenging thoughts, emotions and experiences and offer understanding.
I work with adults who are experiencing difficulties with issues such as anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, grief and loss, identity issues, anger management, low self-esteem, coping and adjustment issues, parenting issues, well being and self care. I think it can be healing to be given a space with someone who wants to sit with you through challenging thoughts, emotions and experiences and offer understanding.
(03) 9118 9034 View (03) 9118 9034
Photo of Fiona Halliday - Fiona Halliday - People Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Fiona Halliday - People Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Melbourne, VIC 3000
Get help by seeing Fiona, who has extensive experience with: Women’s issues Domestic Abuse Domestic Violence (DV) Family Violence Stress management Anxiety Depression Self esteem Assertiveness Identity issues Change and transition Grief and bereavement Wellbeing and balance Self-Esteem Life Coaching Spirituality Meaning and Purpose Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) Issues, Counselling, Coaching and De-Briefing Workplace Issues Workplace Bullying Medicare, Private Health Insurers provider Psychologist Reports
Get help by seeing Fiona, who has extensive experience with: Women’s issues Domestic Abuse Domestic Violence (DV) Family Violence Stress management Anxiety Depression Self esteem Assertiveness Identity issues Change and transition Grief and bereavement Wellbeing and balance Self-Esteem Life Coaching Spirituality Meaning and Purpose Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) Issues, Counselling, Coaching and De-Briefing Workplace Issues Workplace Bullying Medicare, Private Health Insurers provider Psychologist Reports
(03) 7003 2481 View (03) 7003 2481
Photo of Vasiliki Garuli - Neuranova Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Neuranova Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, my name is Vasiliki and I am a fully registered psychologist with AHPRA and a Medicare provider under the Better Access program. I currently offer online sessions only, working mainly with adults across Australia. My approach is warm and compassionate, and I draw on different evidence-based modalities such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. I believe that each person is unique, so I adapt my approach to meet your individual needs rather than taking a one-size-fits-all model.
Hi, my name is Vasiliki and I am a fully registered psychologist with AHPRA and a Medicare provider under the Better Access program. I currently offer online sessions only, working mainly with adults across Australia. My approach is warm and compassionate, and I draw on different evidence-based modalities such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. I believe that each person is unique, so I adapt my approach to meet your individual needs rather than taking a one-size-fits-all model.
0415 299 472 View 0415 299 472
Photo of Shayne Horsman, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Shayne Horsman
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
I am a registered clinical psychologist. I partner with people from all walks and stages of life who are seeking psychological growth, and assistance to improve their mental health.
I am a registered clinical psychologist. I partner with people from all walks and stages of life who are seeking psychological growth, and assistance to improve their mental health.
(03) 7003 2059 View (03) 7003 2059
Photo of Marina Salambasis, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Marina Salambasis
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Melbourne, VIC 3000
These modalities include: EMDR, IFS, ACT, CBT, somatic therapy, compassion focused therapy, person-centred therapy, emotion-focused therapy, motivational interviewing, and psychodynamic therapy.
If you suffer from trauma, ADHD, ASD/Autism, depression, anxiety, substance use, sleep issues, relationship issues, eating disorders, low self-esteem, or bereavement, please email me to arrange a free 10-minute consultation. I foster a non-judgmental and safe therapeutic environment where you will feel comfortable and supported discussing difficult topics. I will endeavor to assist you in accessing your own agency and internal resources, leading to greater self-awareness, emotional regulation, and a sense of empowerment.
These modalities include: EMDR, IFS, ACT, CBT, somatic therapy, compassion focused therapy, person-centred therapy, emotion-focused therapy, motivational interviewing, and psychodynamic therapy.
If you suffer from trauma, ADHD, ASD/Autism, depression, anxiety, substance use, sleep issues, relationship issues, eating disorders, low self-esteem, or bereavement, please email me to arrange a free 10-minute consultation. I foster a non-judgmental and safe therapeutic environment where you will feel comfortable and supported discussing difficult topics. I will endeavor to assist you in accessing your own agency and internal resources, leading to greater self-awareness, emotional regulation, and a sense of empowerment.
(03) 7003 2085 View (03) 7003 2085

See more therapy options for Melbourne

Psychodynamic Therapists
Is psychodynamic therapy evidence-based?
Studies have found psychodynamic therapy to be effective in treating conditions like social anxiety, eating disorders, chronic pain, some personality disorders, and depression; indeed, some studies have found it to be just as effective as CBT or medication. What’s more, several studies have found that the benefits of psychodynamic therapy tend to endure—even grow—long after treatment has ended.

How long does psychodynamic therapy last?
Unlike CBT and other more structured forms of therapy, psychodynamic therapy tends to be open-ended and may not be limited to a set number of sessions. It is common for clients to be in therapy for a year or longer and to see their therapist one to three times a week, though the exact schedule and timeline may vary depending on a client’s challenges and progress. However, brief psychodynamic therapy is available, which tends to be more goal-oriented and typically unfolds over 16 to 30 sessions.

Does psychodynamic therapy work?
Research finds that psychodynamic therapy can help someone manage or reduce symptoms of diagnosable mental health conditions like depression or anxiety. The modality may also offer a range of benefits that are harder to measure but just as valuable—such as increased self-worth or healthier relationships. While no therapy type will work for everyone, research and anecdotal evidence suggest that psychodynamic therapy can be highly effective.

What are the limitations of psychodynamic therapy?
Some meta-analyses have concluded that there is little evidence to suggest that psychodynamic therapy can effectively treat certain mental health conditions such as PTSD, OCD, or psychosis, though it is sometimes used to do so. More broadly, the open-ended, free-association structure of psychodynamic therapy may be frustrating for clients who prefer a more structured, time-limited, or goal-oriented approach.