Attachment-based Psychologists and Therapists in Mount Martha, VIC

Photo of Kirsten Bakker - Ebb to Flow Counselling service, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L4
Ebb to Flow Counselling service
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Mount Martha, VIC 3934
Life has a constant ebb and flow. There are times where everything seems to be smooth and worry free, then, for a variety of reasons we can feel knocked about with constant challenges. Like getting caught in the surf, it may feel like it is hard to catch a break and get onto steady ground. I offer trauma informed compassionate and safe support to help you to find your flow. Specialising in supporting people through life's challenges - whether you're coping with trauma, grief and loss, illness, aging, workplace stress or shifting family dynamics. I will guide you in building emotional clarity, resilience and confidence.
Life has a constant ebb and flow. There are times where everything seems to be smooth and worry free, then, for a variety of reasons we can feel knocked about with constant challenges. Like getting caught in the surf, it may feel like it is hard to catch a break and get onto steady ground. I offer trauma informed compassionate and safe support to help you to find your flow. Specialising in supporting people through life's challenges - whether you're coping with trauma, grief and loss, illness, aging, workplace stress or shifting family dynamics. I will guide you in building emotional clarity, resilience and confidence.
(03) 5907 3930 View (03) 5907 3930
Photo of Meg James, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Meg James
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Online Only
Do you often find yourself putting everyone else first, while struggling to know what you need? Perhaps you're stuck in cycles of anxiety, stress, self-doubt, or emotional overwhelm. You care deeply about the people around you and often find yourself anticipating their needs, managing their emotions, or working hard to keep the peace. Yet despite all that effort, you may feel unseen, unheard, or disconnected from yourself.
Do you often find yourself putting everyone else first, while struggling to know what you need? Perhaps you're stuck in cycles of anxiety, stress, self-doubt, or emotional overwhelm. You care deeply about the people around you and often find yourself anticipating their needs, managing their emotions, or working hard to keep the peace. Yet despite all that effort, you may feel unseen, unheard, or disconnected from yourself.
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Photo of Lauren Michelle Ban, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Lauren Michelle Ban
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
My name is Lauren and I am passionate about helping people connect with themselves more deeply. I have over 10 years experience working with trauma in private practice, as a researcher and with the Centre for Survivors of Torture and Trauma. I use a range of therapeutic techniques to help people become more present in their lives and develop a sense of safety in the world, their relationships and in their own body. Through loving presence and techniques from Focusing and Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), I help people access their own deep sense of inner knowing.
My name is Lauren and I am passionate about helping people connect with themselves more deeply. I have over 10 years experience working with trauma in private practice, as a researcher and with the Centre for Survivors of Torture and Trauma. I use a range of therapeutic techniques to help people become more present in their lives and develop a sense of safety in the world, their relationships and in their own body. Through loving presence and techniques from Focusing and Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), I help people access their own deep sense of inner knowing.
(03) 5907 5849 View (03) 5907 5849
Photo of Tammie Shirley - Mornington Counselling, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Mornington Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Serves Area
Anyone who is ready to take the first step to feel better, live better, have better relationships and feel joy again, get in contact. My varied education and life experience allows me a depth of understanding of the complexities my clients face and tangible ways to move forward towards a positive life. Things can get better. Life can be joyful. No matter what you are facing or how you are feeling, we can take steps towards a much brighter future. Reconnect with yourself and learn to live your truest, most beautiful life.
Anyone who is ready to take the first step to feel better, live better, have better relationships and feel joy again, get in contact. My varied education and life experience allows me a depth of understanding of the complexities my clients face and tangible ways to move forward towards a positive life. Things can get better. Life can be joyful. No matter what you are facing or how you are feeling, we can take steps towards a much brighter future. Reconnect with yourself and learn to live your truest, most beautiful life.
(03) 5910 1996 View (03) 5910 1996
Photo of Lauren P Roberts, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Lauren P Roberts
Counsellor, ACA-L1
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with individuals who feel something within them is asking to be heard—often showing up as anxiety, overwhelm, identity shifts, or disconnection. I support ADHD, autism, motherhood, trauma, and work with children (5+) and NDIS participants, including school-based sessions in primary and high school settings. My person-centred, evidence-informed approach creates space to explore what’s beneath the surface, build emotional capacity, and move toward clarity, regulation, and self-trust. If you’re feeling the weight of carrying it all alone, this is a space to slow down, be met fully, and begin finding your way forward.
I work with individuals who feel something within them is asking to be heard—often showing up as anxiety, overwhelm, identity shifts, or disconnection. I support ADHD, autism, motherhood, trauma, and work with children (5+) and NDIS participants, including school-based sessions in primary and high school settings. My person-centred, evidence-informed approach creates space to explore what’s beneath the surface, build emotional capacity, and move toward clarity, regulation, and self-trust. If you’re feeling the weight of carrying it all alone, this is a space to slow down, be met fully, and begin finding your way forward.
(03) 5907 5536 View (03) 5907 5536
Photo of Aliona Lyubimova - Ali's Counselling and Hypnotherapy, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Ali's Counselling and Hypnotherapy
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Serves Area
I work with adults, adolescents, and families who are navigating anxiety, emotional overwhelm, relationship difficulties, life transitions, or periods of deep uncertainty. Many of the people I support are highly responsible, sensitive, or accustomed to holding things together for others, and come to therapy feeling tired, stuck, or disconnected from themselves. My work is especially supportive for those who sense that their struggles are showing up not only emotionally, but also through the body
I work with adults, adolescents, and families who are navigating anxiety, emotional overwhelm, relationship difficulties, life transitions, or periods of deep uncertainty. Many of the people I support are highly responsible, sensitive, or accustomed to holding things together for others, and come to therapy feeling tired, stuck, or disconnected from themselves. My work is especially supportive for those who sense that their struggles are showing up not only emotionally, but also through the body
(03) 5907 1076 View (03) 5907 1076
Photo of Vanessa M Preston, Social Worker, AMHSW
Vanessa M Preston
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
Many of the people I work with are thoughtful, capable people who feel exhausted from holding everything together. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or the lasting impact of complex trauma. Many carry a quiet feeling of being “not enough” while also worrying they are “too much.” Some feel stuck in painful relationship patterns, overwhelmed by emotions, or disconnected from themselves. Others are navigating grief, life transitions, or hormonal challenges such as PMDD. They want to understand themselves more deeply, feel calmer in their nervous system, and build a life that feels more authentic and sustainable.
Many of the people I work with are thoughtful, capable people who feel exhausted from holding everything together. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or the lasting impact of complex trauma. Many carry a quiet feeling of being “not enough” while also worrying they are “too much.” Some feel stuck in painful relationship patterns, overwhelmed by emotions, or disconnected from themselves. Others are navigating grief, life transitions, or hormonal challenges such as PMDD. They want to understand themselves more deeply, feel calmer in their nervous system, and build a life that feels more authentic and sustainable.
(03) 5906 7997 View (03) 5906 7997
Photo of Tumurchudur Bayanbileg - Therapy Atelier, Psychotherapist, MA
Therapy Atelier
Psychotherapist, MA
Serves Area
Couples often come to me when they feel stuck in painful cycles of conflict, emotional disconnection, betrayal, or uncertainty about the future of their relationship. Some are considering separation, while others deeply wish to repair and strengthen their bond but no longer know how to reach one another. I work with couples from diverse cultural backgrounds who are seeking greater understanding, trust, intimacy, and emotional security. Together, we create a space where difficult conversations can occur safely and productively, allowing meaningful change to become possible.
Couples often come to me when they feel stuck in painful cycles of conflict, emotional disconnection, betrayal, or uncertainty about the future of their relationship. Some are considering separation, while others deeply wish to repair and strengthen their bond but no longer know how to reach one another. I work with couples from diverse cultural backgrounds who are seeking greater understanding, trust, intimacy, and emotional security. Together, we create a space where difficult conversations can occur safely and productively, allowing meaningful change to become possible.
(03) 5907 5605 View (03) 5907 5605
Photo of Jane Halliwell - Jubilee Counselling, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Jubilee Counselling
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Helping women move from overwhelm and shutdown to calm, clarity, and confidence. Feeling overwhelmed, shut down, or like you’ve lost yourself? At Jubilee Counselling in Chelsea Heights…I support women experiencing anxiety, emotional neglect, and trauma responses to feel safe, understood, and gently reconnect with who they are. You may find yourself overthinking, going into “freeze,” or struggling to express your feelings. In a calm, supportive space, we work at your pace to build confidence, emotional clarity, and a stronger sense of self.
Helping women move from overwhelm and shutdown to calm, clarity, and confidence. Feeling overwhelmed, shut down, or like you’ve lost yourself? At Jubilee Counselling in Chelsea Heights…I support women experiencing anxiety, emotional neglect, and trauma responses to feel safe, understood, and gently reconnect with who they are. You may find yourself overthinking, going into “freeze,” or struggling to express your feelings. In a calm, supportive space, we work at your pace to build confidence, emotional clarity, and a stronger sense of self.
(03) 8771 5909 View (03) 8771 5909
Photo of Priyanka Malhotra - Rewire Psychology , Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Rewire Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Serves Area
As an experienced Counselling Psychologist and Supervisor with specialised training in mental health I offer counselling services for children, adolescents, adults, and couples. For families, I work with child mental health difficulties such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, ARFID and provide neuro-affirming care and advocacy, support children through parental separation, and school challenges. I empower families to advocate for their neurodivergent young person in educational settings. For adults and couples, the aim is to enhance communication, rebuild trust, and strengthen emotional responses.
As an experienced Counselling Psychologist and Supervisor with specialised training in mental health I offer counselling services for children, adolescents, adults, and couples. For families, I work with child mental health difficulties such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, ARFID and provide neuro-affirming care and advocacy, support children through parental separation, and school challenges. I empower families to advocate for their neurodivergent young person in educational settings. For adults and couples, the aim is to enhance communication, rebuild trust, and strengthen emotional responses.
(03) 5905 7130 View (03) 5905 7130
Photo of Brenden Wardle, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Brenden Wardle
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I am a registered clinical psychologist working with children (up to 12) and individuals aged 17 and over. While I value supporting parents in the perinatal period, my primary focus is helping people navigate anxiety and trauma. I offer a warm, collaborative approach, supporting clients to build resilience, strengthen confidence, and create meaningful, lasting change.
I am a registered clinical psychologist working with children (up to 12) and individuals aged 17 and over. While I value supporting parents in the perinatal period, my primary focus is helping people navigate anxiety and trauma. I offer a warm, collaborative approach, supporting clients to build resilience, strengthen confidence, and create meaningful, lasting change.
(03) 5907 5991 View (03) 5907 5991
Photo of Irene Ferri, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Irene Ferri
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
I am a humanistic and relational counsellor. My focus is to meet the needs of each unique client. I form strong collaborative bonds with clients and understand the influence their past experiences and relationships have on their current lives. I'm successful in resolving issues through positive reinforcement and constructive counselling. Some of the issues I work with: relationship issues, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relocation, impact of abuse and trauma, grief and bereavement.
I am a humanistic and relational counsellor. My focus is to meet the needs of each unique client. I form strong collaborative bonds with clients and understand the influence their past experiences and relationships have on their current lives. I'm successful in resolving issues through positive reinforcement and constructive counselling. Some of the issues I work with: relationship issues, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relocation, impact of abuse and trauma, grief and bereavement.
(03) 5905 9759 View (03) 5905 9759
Photo of Moniquea Spiteri - Somatic Synergy, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Somatic Synergy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
You may be carrying the weight of unresolved trauma, ongoing stress, or stubborn health issues that never seem to shift no matter what you try. These patterns often replay in your personal and professional relationships, creating cycles of tension, frustration, and disconnection. You might feel held back from expressing your true self or from stepping fully into your potential. Deep down, you long for freedom, vitality, and the courage to create a life that feels authentic and aligned, yet something unseen continues to stand in the way, leaving you unsure where to begin.
You may be carrying the weight of unresolved trauma, ongoing stress, or stubborn health issues that never seem to shift no matter what you try. These patterns often replay in your personal and professional relationships, creating cycles of tension, frustration, and disconnection. You might feel held back from expressing your true self or from stepping fully into your potential. Deep down, you long for freedom, vitality, and the courage to create a life that feels authentic and aligned, yet something unseen continues to stand in the way, leaving you unsure where to begin.
(03) 6118 7115 View (03) 6118 7115
Photo of Melanie Hunter, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Melanie Hunter
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I work with women and teen girls from 14 years and over. My space is non-clinical on purpose, Authenticity and working alongside my clients is very important to me. I get to know your story, your patterns and the impacts they're having on your current life. I help to build awareness around them and give you tangible, evidence backed tools that are personalised to your lifestyle. I see women with anxiety, burnout, depression, women who are in life transitions, eating disorders, neurodivergence and high performing women some of whom want to up level and others who are tired of perfectionism.
I work with women and teen girls from 14 years and over. My space is non-clinical on purpose, Authenticity and working alongside my clients is very important to me. I get to know your story, your patterns and the impacts they're having on your current life. I help to build awareness around them and give you tangible, evidence backed tools that are personalised to your lifestyle. I see women with anxiety, burnout, depression, women who are in life transitions, eating disorders, neurodivergence and high performing women some of whom want to up level and others who are tired of perfectionism.
(03) 5926 1804 View (03) 5926 1804
Photo of Kirsty Vondeling, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Ed. Psych.
Kirsty Vondeling
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Ed. Psych.
Serves Area
Kirsty is a registered psychologist with the Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and holds Educational and Developmental Psychology endorsement. Kirsty aims to create a fun, relaxed and engaging environment to assist in the development of a strong therapeutic alliance. Kirsty is adaptable in her approach; she strongly believes that a 'one size does not fit all' approach is critical for each child and family.
Kirsty is a registered psychologist with the Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and holds Educational and Developmental Psychology endorsement. Kirsty aims to create a fun, relaxed and engaging environment to assist in the development of a strong therapeutic alliance. Kirsty is adaptable in her approach; she strongly believes that a 'one size does not fit all' approach is critical for each child and family.
(03) 8797 2195 View (03) 8797 2195
Photo of Jacqui Snooks, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Jacqui Snooks
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
As a dedicated therapist, I empower individuals to navigate the complexities of intimacy and self-worth. Specialising in attachment issues, I help clients unpack how anxious and avoidant attachment may be impacting their current connections and internal dialogue. My approach blends empathy with insights to dismantle the roots of low self-esteem. By understanding your unique attachment style, we work together to transform insecurity into resilience and conflict into closeness. Whether you’re feeling "too much" in relationships or struggling to find your voice, I provide a safe space to cultivate lasting security and self-worth.
As a dedicated therapist, I empower individuals to navigate the complexities of intimacy and self-worth. Specialising in attachment issues, I help clients unpack how anxious and avoidant attachment may be impacting their current connections and internal dialogue. My approach blends empathy with insights to dismantle the roots of low self-esteem. By understanding your unique attachment style, we work together to transform insecurity into resilience and conflict into closeness. Whether you’re feeling "too much" in relationships or struggling to find your voice, I provide a safe space to cultivate lasting security and self-worth.
(08) 9126 9430 View (08) 9126 9430
Photo of Chaille Bos, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Chaille Bos
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Serves Area
Hello! I’m Chaille (Shay). I’ve spent most of the last decade living and working overseas away from friends and family, this taught me that there is nothing better than having a person who is your home and who will support you no matter what. I am very analytic and straight forward, but I’m also endlessly compassionate. More than anything, I want you to feel comfortable and safe when working with me. ​As a counsellor, my focus is on increasing quality of life. I help clients process their experiences in an environment of respect, help them feel heard, safe and validated. I offer evidence-based counselling for individuals and couples
Hello! I’m Chaille (Shay). I’ve spent most of the last decade living and working overseas away from friends and family, this taught me that there is nothing better than having a person who is your home and who will support you no matter what. I am very analytic and straight forward, but I’m also endlessly compassionate. More than anything, I want you to feel comfortable and safe when working with me. ​As a counsellor, my focus is on increasing quality of life. I help clients process their experiences in an environment of respect, help them feel heard, safe and validated. I offer evidence-based counselling for individuals and couples
(03) 5907 1314 View (03) 5907 1314
Photo of Kym Anderton, Counsellor, PACFA
Kym Anderton
Counsellor, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
The essence of my therapy is in building solid, safe relationships collaboratively with my clients, catering to the unique needs of each person in a non-judgmental way. Rather than tell someone what they need, I prefer a merging of minds to make meaningful and sustainable differences. Together we explore resources to overcome adversity and suffering whilst learning to accept and adapt to the complicated facets of life where required. My therapeutic approach is also rooted in a deep exploration of early life experiences, with a focus on understanding and facilitating the healing of trauma or patterned behaviour.
The essence of my therapy is in building solid, safe relationships collaboratively with my clients, catering to the unique needs of each person in a non-judgmental way. Rather than tell someone what they need, I prefer a merging of minds to make meaningful and sustainable differences. Together we explore resources to overcome adversity and suffering whilst learning to accept and adapt to the complicated facets of life where required. My therapeutic approach is also rooted in a deep exploration of early life experiences, with a focus on understanding and facilitating the healing of trauma or patterned behaviour.
(03) 5910 3030 View (03) 5910 3030
Photo of Melissa Jane Freedman, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Melissa Jane Freedman
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
A registered psychotherapist, Melissa has a Master’s Degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy and is registered with the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA), and the Australian Counselling Association (ACA). Melissa uses a range of evidenced based approaches, tailoring the therapy to best suit the individual needs of her clients.
A registered psychotherapist, Melissa has a Master’s Degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy and is registered with the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA), and the Australian Counselling Association (ACA). Melissa uses a range of evidenced based approaches, tailoring the therapy to best suit the individual needs of her clients.
(03) 9070 3508 View (03) 9070 3508
Photo of Sallyanne Marlow, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Sallyanne Marlow
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi I’m Sallyanne! I’m a Child and Adolescent Psychologist, running my practice on the Mornington Peninsula. I work with children and teens, as well as directly with parents, to provide support and strategies for your family.
Hi I’m Sallyanne! I’m a Child and Adolescent Psychologist, running my practice on the Mornington Peninsula. I work with children and teens, as well as directly with parents, to provide support and strategies for your family.
(03) 5907 3607 View (03) 5907 3607
Attachment-based Therapists
Is attachment-based therapy the same as attachment therapy?
Attachment-based therapy may be confused with what is called “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy”), a discredited and dangerous approach to treating children with attachment disorders, autism, or other mental health concerns. Attachment therapy—not attachment-based therapy—may involve restraining a child, forcing eye contact, and other coercive or abusive techniques. None of these practices are used in attachment-based therapy and the two modalities are in no way related.

What should I expect from attachment-based therapy?
Attachment-based therapy is based on attachment theory, which posits that children’s early relationships with their caregivers strongly influence their ability to navigate the world later in life. Thus, adults who seek attachment-based therapy should expect to deeply explore their childhood, identifying the dynamics or experiences that disrupted their attachment and the steps necessary to overcome challenges that arose as a result. Parents and children should expect to explore the possible factors that disrupted the parent-child relationship and work toward restoring trust and connection.

How long does attachment-based therapy last?
Certain forms of attachment-based therapy, especially those designed for parents and children, last for a set number of sessions; for example, Attachment and Biobehavioural Catch-Up, a specific attachment-based approach for young children who have undergone early adversity, unfolds over 10 one-hour sessions. When attachment-based therapy is practiced on adults or combined with other modalities, it may not last a specific length of time; clients may wish to ask prospective therapists how long they expect treatment to take.

Does attachment-based therapy work?
Most of the research on attachment-based therapy focuses on children and adolescents. Some of this research shows a positive effect, especially for attachment-based family therapy (ABFT). Other studies, however, have found that attachment-based therapy is no more effective than other approaches to childhood depression, anxiety, or suicidality. Less is known about the therapy’s efficacy on adult populations.