Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Psychologists and Therapists in Mount Waverley, VIC

Photo of Barbara Kathleen Grabau - Play Heal Thrive Therapy, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Play Heal Thrive Therapy
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Mount Waverley, VIC 3149
With teenagers and adults I also use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and in some circunstances, Cogitive Behaviour Therapy.
I am Barbara Grabau, Founder and Director of Play Heal Thrive Therapy. I have a Master's Degree in Counselling, am a qualified Play Therapist and a qualified Lego Therapy facilitator. I offer individual play therapy sessions for children aged 2 - 12 years old, Lego Therapy group sessions for children aged 5 - 15 years, and individual counselling for teenagers and adults. For those experiencing challenges in parenting, I also offer parent coaching sessions.
With teenagers and adults I also use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and in some circunstances, Cogitive Behaviour Therapy.
I am Barbara Grabau, Founder and Director of Play Heal Thrive Therapy. I have a Master's Degree in Counselling, am a qualified Play Therapist and a qualified Lego Therapy facilitator. I offer individual play therapy sessions for children aged 2 - 12 years old, Lego Therapy group sessions for children aged 5 - 15 years, and individual counselling for teenagers and adults. For those experiencing challenges in parenting, I also offer parent coaching sessions.
(03) 7500 5626 View (03) 7500 5626
Photo of Dr Andrea Sadusky, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Ed. Psych.
Dr Andrea Sadusky
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Ed. Psych.
Mount Waverley, VIC 3149
My approach is evidence-based and flexible, drawing on therapies like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Mindfulness.
Hi, I’m Andrea. I feel incredibly privileged to support people through the ups and downs of life. No one makes it through without facing pain, frustration, anxiety, or uncertainty. But these challenges can be a doorway to growth. In our work together, I’ll help you explore what matters most, navigate the tough moments, and move toward a life that feels more joyful, meaningful, and aligned with your values. Whether you're feeling stuck, burnt out, or at a crossroads, you don’t have to go it alone.
My approach is evidence-based and flexible, drawing on therapies like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Mindfulness.
Hi, I’m Andrea. I feel incredibly privileged to support people through the ups and downs of life. No one makes it through without facing pain, frustration, anxiety, or uncertainty. But these challenges can be a doorway to growth. In our work together, I’ll help you explore what matters most, navigate the tough moments, and move toward a life that feels more joyful, meaningful, and aligned with your values. Whether you're feeling stuck, burnt out, or at a crossroads, you don’t have to go it alone.
(03) 7500 5839 View (03) 7500 5839
Photo of Adiemus Seah, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Adiemus Seah
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Mount Waverley, VIC 3149
Hi, I am Adiemus Seah, and I am a registered counsellor, Gallup certified strengths coach, accredited mental health first aid instructor, and clinical supervisor for the Masters of Counselling program at Monash University. Besides, I am also a Gottman-trained relationship therapist and PREPARE/ENRICH facilitator. I have 20 years of experience helping individuals and organisations elevate performance, achieve goals, and enhance wellbeing. I have worked in a range of universities, hospitals, non-profit organisations and private practice as a mental health practitioner, lead trainer and head of university counselling department.
Hi, I am Adiemus Seah, and I am a registered counsellor, Gallup certified strengths coach, accredited mental health first aid instructor, and clinical supervisor for the Masters of Counselling program at Monash University. Besides, I am also a Gottman-trained relationship therapist and PREPARE/ENRICH facilitator. I have 20 years of experience helping individuals and organisations elevate performance, achieve goals, and enhance wellbeing. I have worked in a range of universities, hospitals, non-profit organisations and private practice as a mental health practitioner, lead trainer and head of university counselling department.
(03) 7500 5824 View (03) 7500 5824
Photo of Dr Jake Kraska - Level Up Psychology, Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Level Up Psychology
Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Mount Waverley, VIC 3149
Waitlist for new clients
I combine ACT, CBT, schema therapy and narrative therapy to create personalised interventions.
As a psychologist passionate about gaming and its community, I find fulfillment working with young adults navigating life's uncertainties. My ideal clients are gamers who may feel socially isolated or misunderstood due to their unique interests. They might experience mood disruptions or a lack of confidence without knowing why. These individuals seek to find their place in the world, build meaningful connections, and harness their strengths to overcome challenges.
I combine ACT, CBT, schema therapy and narrative therapy to create personalised interventions.
As a psychologist passionate about gaming and its community, I find fulfillment working with young adults navigating life's uncertainties. My ideal clients are gamers who may feel socially isolated or misunderstood due to their unique interests. They might experience mood disruptions or a lack of confidence without knowing why. These individuals seek to find their place in the world, build meaningful connections, and harness their strengths to overcome challenges.
(03) 7500 5918 View (03) 7500 5918
Photo of Yuying Zhao, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Yuying Zhao
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
2 Endorsed
Mount Waverley, VIC 3149
I am a Chinese-speaking psychotherapist/ couples therapist; most private insurances are accepted. I work with teenagers, adults, couples, and families to overcome issues related to psychological concerns, emotional disorders, personal development, relationship conflicts, and parenting skills. 微信:auxinli 澳洲注册心理咨询师、婚姻伴侣咨询师, 以及催眠治疗师。服务青少年及成人的焦虑、抑郁、厌学、强迫,创伤和情感关系等问题,接受线上和线下咨询。
I am a Chinese-speaking psychotherapist/ couples therapist; most private insurances are accepted. I work with teenagers, adults, couples, and families to overcome issues related to psychological concerns, emotional disorders, personal development, relationship conflicts, and parenting skills. 微信:auxinli 澳洲注册心理咨询师、婚姻伴侣咨询师, 以及催眠治疗师。服务青少年及成人的焦虑、抑郁、厌学、强迫,创伤和情感关系等问题,接受线上和线下咨询。
(03) 8771 4121 View (03) 8771 4121
Photo of Wren Jablonka, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Wren Jablonka
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Mount Waverley, VIC 3149
They employ evidence-based techniques and interventions from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Dialectical Behaviour therapy (DBT), and Solution-focused Therapy.
Wren loves working with adolescents and young adults to both identify strengths and overcome challenges. With adolescents, Wren strives to create a safe space that promotes autonomy and empowerment, allowing for exploration and growth. Some specific areas Wren is passionate about include anxiety, mood, LGBTQIA+ clients, and neurodiversity.
They employ evidence-based techniques and interventions from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Dialectical Behaviour therapy (DBT), and Solution-focused Therapy.
Wren loves working with adolescents and young adults to both identify strengths and overcome challenges. With adolescents, Wren strives to create a safe space that promotes autonomy and empowerment, allowing for exploration and growth. Some specific areas Wren is passionate about include anxiety, mood, LGBTQIA+ clients, and neurodiversity.
(03) 8771 5224 View (03) 8771 5224
Photo of Henrique Salles, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Henrique Salles
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Mount Waverley, VIC 3149
I use evidence-based modalities such as CBT, CBT-I, ACT, and mindfulness.
I'm very interested in insomnia, phobias, social anxiety, ADHD, and helping people engage in fulfilling activities. I'm passionate about the benefits of nature-based therapy and offer optional ‘Walk and Talk’ counselling at a nearby nature trail, aiming to increase access for people who feel uncomfortable in traditional counselling settings.
I use evidence-based modalities such as CBT, CBT-I, ACT, and mindfulness.
I'm very interested in insomnia, phobias, social anxiety, ADHD, and helping people engage in fulfilling activities. I'm passionate about the benefits of nature-based therapy and offer optional ‘Walk and Talk’ counselling at a nearby nature trail, aiming to increase access for people who feel uncomfortable in traditional counselling settings.
(03) 8771 4589 View (03) 8771 4589
Photo of Srividya (Sri) Ravichandran - SoulShine Counselling, Counsellor, ACA-L2
SoulShine Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming, and it can be difficult to carry everything on your own. Having a space where you feel heard and understood can make a meaningful difference. I’m Sri, an ACA Level 2 registered counsellor and founder of SoulShine Counselling. I offer a supportive space to explore what you are going through at a pace that feels right for you. My approach is trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming, and grounded in respect, empathy, and collaboration. I provide counselling primarily in English, and can also offer sessions in Tamil, Kannada, and Hindi. Please reach out if you would like to explore counselling.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming, and it can be difficult to carry everything on your own. Having a space where you feel heard and understood can make a meaningful difference. I’m Sri, an ACA Level 2 registered counsellor and founder of SoulShine Counselling. I offer a supportive space to explore what you are going through at a pace that feels right for you. My approach is trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming, and grounded in respect, empathy, and collaboration. I provide counselling primarily in English, and can also offer sessions in Tamil, Kannada, and Hindi. Please reach out if you would like to explore counselling.
(03) 8771 4425 View (03) 8771 4425
Photo of Rebecca Pettinato, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Rebecca Pettinato
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Mount Waverley, VIC 3149
I draw from a range of therapeutic interventions and modalities such as CBT, ACT, Motivational Interviewing, Schema Therapy, mindfulness and positive psychology.
I know how challenging it can be to reach out for support, but taking the first step towards improving your mental health can be a catalyst for change. I want to help you make positive changes that make your life feel rich and meaningful; helping you live a life that feels authentic and aligns with your values and who you want to be. Together we can explore and work through issues relating to anxiety, depression, ADHD (and diagnosis), rumination, struggles with life transitions, work stress, study stress, relationship issues, loss of direction, uncertainty about careers or life trajectories, and addiction (such as gambling).
I draw from a range of therapeutic interventions and modalities such as CBT, ACT, Motivational Interviewing, Schema Therapy, mindfulness and positive psychology.
I know how challenging it can be to reach out for support, but taking the first step towards improving your mental health can be a catalyst for change. I want to help you make positive changes that make your life feel rich and meaningful; helping you live a life that feels authentic and aligns with your values and who you want to be. Together we can explore and work through issues relating to anxiety, depression, ADHD (and diagnosis), rumination, struggles with life transitions, work stress, study stress, relationship issues, loss of direction, uncertainty about careers or life trajectories, and addiction (such as gambling).
0426 513 650 View 0426 513 650
Photo of Dr Christine James, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Christine James
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
My main approach is EMDR (an evidence-based trauma treatment), but I use other treatments such as ACT, CBT and DBT when needed.
I am a clinical psychologist with over twenty years' experience. My particular area of interest is trauma and much of my practise is with first responders and others with workplace trauma.I also work with people who have experienced childhood trauma. I am registered to provide services through VACU to Ambulance Victoria staff, through Bluehub to Victoria Police, and through Open Arms to military personnel. I also see individuals on Worksafe and through Medicare.
My main approach is EMDR (an evidence-based trauma treatment), but I use other treatments such as ACT, CBT and DBT when needed.
I am a clinical psychologist with over twenty years' experience. My particular area of interest is trauma and much of my practise is with first responders and others with workplace trauma.I also work with people who have experienced childhood trauma. I am registered to provide services through VACU to Ambulance Victoria staff, through Bluehub to Victoria Police, and through Open Arms to military personnel. I also see individuals on Worksafe and through Medicare.
(03) 8771 5095 View (03) 8771 5095
Photo of Heidi Glynn - GlynnMIND clinic, Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
GlynnMIND clinic
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Serves Area
At GlynnMIND clinic, our mission is to heal bodies and minds across all gut and mind conditions. We understand the intricate link between the brain and the gut and this is pivotal to our treatment approach. We offer a tailored Gut-Directed hypnotherapy service to individuals with IBS and IBD aimed at reducing gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms.
At GlynnMIND clinic, our mission is to heal bodies and minds across all gut and mind conditions. We understand the intricate link between the brain and the gut and this is pivotal to our treatment approach. We offer a tailored Gut-Directed hypnotherapy service to individuals with IBS and IBD aimed at reducing gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms.
(03) 7500 5069 View (03) 7500 5069
Photo of Grace Penman, Counsellor, ACA-L3
Grace Penman
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Online Only
Grace’s approach weaves together EMDR, Narrative Therapy, ACT, and mindfulness-based somatic psychotherapy, creating space to explore how emotions, stress, trauma, and cultural histories are held in the body.
Grace is a counsellor and psychotherapist who supports mixed-culture adults, immigrants, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community as they navigate identity, belonging, and life transitions in a cross-cultural world. You might be carrying the weight of family expectations while longing to live in a way that feels true to you, or raising young families while managing relationships shaped by different cultural upbringings. Over time, this tension can show up as anxiety, guilt, confusion, or a sense of never being “enough”, along with feelings of loneliness and uncertainty about where you truly belong as you work to find your own path.
Grace’s approach weaves together EMDR, Narrative Therapy, ACT, and mindfulness-based somatic psychotherapy, creating space to explore how emotions, stress, trauma, and cultural histories are held in the body.
Grace is a counsellor and psychotherapist who supports mixed-culture adults, immigrants, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community as they navigate identity, belonging, and life transitions in a cross-cultural world. You might be carrying the weight of family expectations while longing to live in a way that feels true to you, or raising young families while managing relationships shaped by different cultural upbringings. Over time, this tension can show up as anxiety, guilt, confusion, or a sense of never being “enough”, along with feelings of loneliness and uncertainty about where you truly belong as you work to find your own path.
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Photo of Magdalen Ser, Social Worker, MSc, AMHSW
Magdalen Ser
Social Worker, MSc, AMHSW
Serves Area
Drawing on approaches including Deep Brain Reorienting (Level 3), EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Interpersonal Therapy and Infra-Low Frequency Neurofeedback, I tailor therapy to the person rather than expecting the person to fit the therapy.
Have you spent years trying to understand yourself, yet still find yourself caught in the same emotional patterns or relationship difficulties? Perhaps you've gained valuable insight through previous therapy, yet something still feels stuck. When insight alone hasn't been been enough, it is often because the effects of trauma are reflected not only in how we think, but also in the protective ways our mind and nervous system have learned to respond.
Drawing on approaches including Deep Brain Reorienting (Level 3), EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Interpersonal Therapy and Infra-Low Frequency Neurofeedback, I tailor therapy to the person rather than expecting the person to fit the therapy.
Have you spent years trying to understand yourself, yet still find yourself caught in the same emotional patterns or relationship difficulties? Perhaps you've gained valuable insight through previous therapy, yet something still feels stuck. When insight alone hasn't been been enough, it is often because the effects of trauma are reflected not only in how we think, but also in the protective ways our mind and nervous system have learned to respond.
(03) 9994 1795 View (03) 9994 1795
Photo of Nenita Batica, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Nenita Batica
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I draw from evidence-based approaches including EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Schema Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
Hi! I’m a registered psychologist and accredited EMDR Practitioner, with a particular focus on supporting women experiencing trauma, emotional overwhelm, relationship difficulties, stress, burnout, and the ongoing impact of difficult life experiences. Many people come to me feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected, and looking for a safe space to make sense of what they’re going through. My approach is warm, calm, and collaborative. As a woman myself, I understand how easy it can be to put everyone else first while losing sight of your own needs. I aim to help clients feel understood, supported, and more like themselves again.
I draw from evidence-based approaches including EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Schema Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
Hi! I’m a registered psychologist and accredited EMDR Practitioner, with a particular focus on supporting women experiencing trauma, emotional overwhelm, relationship difficulties, stress, burnout, and the ongoing impact of difficult life experiences. Many people come to me feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected, and looking for a safe space to make sense of what they’re going through. My approach is warm, calm, and collaborative. As a woman myself, I understand how easy it can be to put everyone else first while losing sight of your own needs. I aim to help clients feel understood, supported, and more like themselves again.
(03) 8771 4591 View (03) 8771 4591
Photo of Winnie Lau - Bayside Counselling & Consultation (Wheelers Hill), Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Bayside Counselling & Consultation (Wheelers Hill)
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Bayside Counselling and Consultation provides psychological support to private and government organisations through Employment Assistance Programs. Our team includes Psychologists and Mental Health Social Worker experienced in the provision of work-based mediation, critical incident debriefing, trauma-focused therapy, the effects of substance abuse in the workplace, anger management, and increasing work attendance and satisfaction. Private counselling is also available in our practice.
Bayside Counselling and Consultation provides psychological support to private and government organisations through Employment Assistance Programs. Our team includes Psychologists and Mental Health Social Worker experienced in the provision of work-based mediation, critical incident debriefing, trauma-focused therapy, the effects of substance abuse in the workplace, anger management, and increasing work attendance and satisfaction. Private counselling is also available in our practice.
(03) 9034 6183 View (03) 9034 6183
Photo of Kyo Chung, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Kyo Chung
Counsellor, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
An intuitive and compassionate counsellor with over a decade of experience guiding individuals, couples, and families through complex emotional and relational challenges. My multicultural perspective, shaped by life experiences in Korea, China, and the USA, combined with professional expertise across diverse roles—as a community interpreter, counsellor, and family therapist—enables me to provide holistic and culturally sensitive support. I've helped many clients recover from narcissistic abuse to build healthy identity and resilience.
An intuitive and compassionate counsellor with over a decade of experience guiding individuals, couples, and families through complex emotional and relational challenges. My multicultural perspective, shaped by life experiences in Korea, China, and the USA, combined with professional expertise across diverse roles—as a community interpreter, counsellor, and family therapist—enables me to provide holistic and culturally sensitive support. I've helped many clients recover from narcissistic abuse to build healthy identity and resilience.
(03) 9068 5740 View (03) 9068 5740
Photo of Nasseema Baidwan, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Nasseema Baidwan
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
My therapeutic approach is compassionate, empathetic, and grounded, with a warm, down-to-earth style. I place great value on building a strong, trusting relationship, working collaboratively with you to support your goals. I strive to create a safe, inclusive, and neurodiversity-affirming space, where every individual is respected, understood, and supported without judgment, allowing your unique strengths and experiences to guide your journey.
My therapeutic approach is compassionate, empathetic, and grounded, with a warm, down-to-earth style. I place great value on building a strong, trusting relationship, working collaboratively with you to support your goals. I strive to create a safe, inclusive, and neurodiversity-affirming space, where every individual is respected, understood, and supported without judgment, allowing your unique strengths and experiences to guide your journey.
(03) 7500 5204 View (03) 7500 5204
Photo of Laura Prior, Social Worker, AASW
Laura Prior
Social Worker, AASW
Serves Area
I work with people who are feeling overwhelmed and stressed; are being held back by anxiety or depression; are concerned about their drug and/or alcohol use; or are trying to support someone with substance use issues. I understand that these issues can be complex and multifaceted. I work with people to manage their issues while learning new coping skills, building their self-esteem and capacity using their strengths in order to achieve their goals.
I work with people who are feeling overwhelmed and stressed; are being held back by anxiety or depression; are concerned about their drug and/or alcohol use; or are trying to support someone with substance use issues. I understand that these issues can be complex and multifaceted. I work with people to manage their issues while learning new coping skills, building their self-esteem and capacity using their strengths in order to achieve their goals.
(03) 8613 3470 View (03) 8613 3470
Photo of Jodie Arnot, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Jodie Arnot
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
We might draw on Polyvagal Theory, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), self-compassion techniques, mindfulness, and parts work.
Discover the freedom of no longer being your own worst critic. • You might like support with: Self-criticism, Concerns about not being "enough", Body image, Low self-worth, Perfectionism, Problematic relationship with exercise, Comparison pressures, Burnout, Overwhelm, Perimenopause... Maybe you feel like you're constantly getting in your own way, holding yourself back, or wasting valuable moments at war with yourself? I can help.
We might draw on Polyvagal Theory, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), self-compassion techniques, mindfulness, and parts work.
Discover the freedom of no longer being your own worst critic. • You might like support with: Self-criticism, Concerns about not being "enough", Body image, Low self-worth, Perfectionism, Problematic relationship with exercise, Comparison pressures, Burnout, Overwhelm, Perimenopause... Maybe you feel like you're constantly getting in your own way, holding yourself back, or wasting valuable moments at war with yourself? I can help.
(03) 6144 6013 View (03) 6144 6013
Photo of David Williamson - Karinya Counselling Centre, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Karinya Counselling Centre
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
Karinya offers high quality professional counselling services to anyone regardless of race, gender, lifestyle, religion, or status.
Karinya offers high quality professional counselling services to anyone regardless of race, gender, lifestyle, religion, or status.
(03) 7500 5902 View (03) 7500 5902
Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists
How does acceptance and commitment therapy work?
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy encourages a person to listen to their self-talk. A person’s inner dialog can be indicative of how they treat themselves. ACT also encourages self-compassion; this can lead to a better understanding of negative thought patterns and emotional states. This understanding can then lead the individual to needed behavior change.

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

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

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