Sexual Abuse Psychologists and Therapists in Mount Waverley, VIC

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 Shanilka Heath - Nirvana Psychology , Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Nirvana Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I’m Shanilka, a registered psychologist and founder of Nirvana Psychology. I provide therapy to individuals across Melbourne, including Oakleigh and Chadstone, with Telehealth available Australia-wide. I work with adolescents and adults, from complex concerns to NDIS, to everyday challenges that come with work, relationships, identity, stress, or major life transitions. My approach to therapy is grounded in patience, compassion, and deep respect for each person’s unique journey. Born and raised in Australia with a proud Sri Lankan heritage, I bring a nuanced understanding of multicultural identity and cross-cultural awareness.
I’m Shanilka, a registered psychologist and founder of Nirvana Psychology. I provide therapy to individuals across Melbourne, including Oakleigh and Chadstone, with Telehealth available Australia-wide. I work with adolescents and adults, from complex concerns to NDIS, to everyday challenges that come with work, relationships, identity, stress, or major life transitions. My approach to therapy is grounded in patience, compassion, and deep respect for each person’s unique journey. Born and raised in Australia with a proud Sri Lankan heritage, I bring a nuanced understanding of multicultural identity and cross-cultural awareness.
(03) 8771 5863 View (03) 8771 5863
Photo of Magdalen Ser, Social Worker, MSc, AMHSW
Magdalen Ser
Social Worker, MSc, AMHSW
Serves Area
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.
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 Dr Sesil Ozgis, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Sesil Ozgis
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
Hi my name is Sesil. I have completed the Doctor of Psychology (Clinical) postgraduate degree. I am a registered Clinical Psychologist. I began practising in 2002 and have had a range of experiences working in a variety of settings. Some of the areas I work with include anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, life changes, relationship issues, grief/loss and stress. I am currently available to offer Telehealth psychology services for adults.
Hi my name is Sesil. I have completed the Doctor of Psychology (Clinical) postgraduate degree. I am a registered Clinical Psychologist. I began practising in 2002 and have had a range of experiences working in a variety of settings. Some of the areas I work with include anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, life changes, relationship issues, grief/loss and stress. I am currently available to offer Telehealth psychology services for adults.
(03) 7500 5999 View (03) 7500 5999
Photo of Heidi Chia, Social Worker, AMHSW
Heidi Chia
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
Hello, I'm Heidi. I am a compassionate and collaborative therapist who enjoys working with adolescents and adults. I strive to create a warm, safe and accepting space where people feel supported to make sense of their experiences, reconnect with their inner strengths, and move toward meaningful and lasting change.
Hello, I'm Heidi. I am a compassionate and collaborative therapist who enjoys working with adolescents and adults. I strive to create a warm, safe and accepting space where people feel supported to make sense of their experiences, reconnect with their inner strengths, and move toward meaningful and lasting change.
(03) 8771 5393 View (03) 8771 5393
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 Sandi Silva - Insession Counselling, Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Insession Counselling
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I'm Sanduni, a psychologist and South Asian Woman of Colour with over 10 years of experience in the mental health sector. I started Insession Counselling to provide therapy to people from all cultural backgrounds, gender identities and sexual orientations. Navigating my own experiences of marginalisation and intersectionality as a queer Sri-Lankan woman has allowed me to truly understand how culture, gender and sexuality shape so much of who we are and how we experience relationships. I combine this lived experience with evidence-based psychological interventions so that the therapy you receive is tailored specifically to you.
I'm Sanduni, a psychologist and South Asian Woman of Colour with over 10 years of experience in the mental health sector. I started Insession Counselling to provide therapy to people from all cultural backgrounds, gender identities and sexual orientations. Navigating my own experiences of marginalisation and intersectionality as a queer Sri-Lankan woman has allowed me to truly understand how culture, gender and sexuality shape so much of who we are and how we experience relationships. I combine this lived experience with evidence-based psychological interventions so that the therapy you receive is tailored specifically to you.
(03) 9034 9641 View (03) 9034 9641
Photo of Kim Dang, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Kim Dang
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Kim is a registered psychologist with over 10 years of experience delivering therapy and assessments to diverse populations across the lifespan. She utilises Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based modalities to help individuals meet their unique mental health goals.
Kim is a registered psychologist with over 10 years of experience delivering therapy and assessments to diverse populations across the lifespan. She utilises Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based modalities to help individuals meet their unique mental health goals.
0490 022 973 View 0490 022 973

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Barbara Drossos, Social Worker, AMHSW
Barbara Drossos
Social Worker, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Fitzroy, VIC 3065
I support people who have experienced sexual assault and violence, as well as those who struggle with their mental health, childhood trauma, attachment, relationships, parenting, heartbreak and shame.
Life can be hard to navigate, especially when we face transitions, stressors and/or crises. Counselling can make a difference. I provide non-judgmental, warm and thoughtful support to work towards change through increasing self-awareness, developing interpersonal and self-care skills, as well as processing trauma that may still be impacting your life.
I support people who have experienced sexual assault and violence, as well as those who struggle with their mental health, childhood trauma, attachment, relationships, parenting, heartbreak and shame.
Life can be hard to navigate, especially when we face transitions, stressors and/or crises. Counselling can make a difference. I provide non-judgmental, warm and thoughtful support to work towards change through increasing self-awareness, developing interpersonal and self-care skills, as well as processing trauma that may still be impacting your life.
(03) 9344 1556 View (03) 9344 1556
Photo of Esen Uygun, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Esen Uygun
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Fitzroy North, VIC 3068
I am passionate about supporting and helping individuals, families who feel trapped in their trauma symptoms. I am Somatic Experiencing, Accredited EMDR and Havening Practitioner. I support people with Complex PTSD issues. There is a common belief that the trauma is the result of individual's thinking pattern, which is misleading. Any traumatic experiences registered somatically, therefore the trauma work will be somatically oriented, which aims to clear the symptoms from the whole system.
I am passionate about supporting and helping individuals, families who feel trapped in their trauma symptoms. I am Somatic Experiencing, Accredited EMDR and Havening Practitioner. I support people with Complex PTSD issues. There is a common belief that the trauma is the result of individual's thinking pattern, which is misleading. Any traumatic experiences registered somatically, therefore the trauma work will be somatically oriented, which aims to clear the symptoms from the whole system.
(03) 9071 0595 View (03) 9071 0595
Photo of Ketura Bram - Transformative Place Counselling Service, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Transformative Place Counselling Service
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Online Only
Welcome, I'm Ketura, counsellor at Transformative Place Counselling Service. I specialise in working with individuals diagnosed with borderline personality disorder work on emotional regulation and trauma, but you do not have to have BPD to benefit from the services I offer. I encourage you to explore emotions, how you hold these and memories within your body, gaining awareness of your nervous system's language. To learn how to unlock and be with discomfort and unfamiliar thoughts, emotions, memories and to make new experiences, to tolerate and manage distress and integrate past trauma/experiences into the present and thrive
Welcome, I'm Ketura, counsellor at Transformative Place Counselling Service. I specialise in working with individuals diagnosed with borderline personality disorder work on emotional regulation and trauma, but you do not have to have BPD to benefit from the services I offer. I encourage you to explore emotions, how you hold these and memories within your body, gaining awareness of your nervous system's language. To learn how to unlock and be with discomfort and unfamiliar thoughts, emotions, memories and to make new experiences, to tolerate and manage distress and integrate past trauma/experiences into the present and thrive
(02) 4504 0282 View (02) 4504 0282
Photo of San Leenstra, Counsellor, MA, AThR
San Leenstra
Counsellor, MA, AThR
Serves Area
I have over 20 years experience working with individuals, adults, teens, children and families and have qualifications in Art Therapy, Family Therapy and have many years experience working in sexual assault recovery and trauma-informed practice.
I am passionate about working collaboratively and believe in balancing honesty with warmth and care, being straight forward as well as gentle, kind and non-judgemental. I work client-centred, with unconditional positive regard and allow each perspective to be heard, valued and taken seriously. I support each individual to explore their own unique way of being in this world, with all its challenges and rewards. I invite you to embrace a journey of self-discovery and growth in a safe, supportive environment where your voice matters.
I have over 20 years experience working with individuals, adults, teens, children and families and have qualifications in Art Therapy, Family Therapy and have many years experience working in sexual assault recovery and trauma-informed practice.
I am passionate about working collaboratively and believe in balancing honesty with warmth and care, being straight forward as well as gentle, kind and non-judgemental. I work client-centred, with unconditional positive regard and allow each perspective to be heard, valued and taken seriously. I support each individual to explore their own unique way of being in this world, with all its challenges and rewards. I invite you to embrace a journey of self-discovery and growth in a safe, supportive environment where your voice matters.
(03) 4422 2660 View (03) 4422 2660
Photo of Phoebe Lovett, Psychotherapist, MPsych, PACFA
Phoebe Lovett
Psychotherapist, MPsych, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Many of us feel like we are not good enough, overwhelmed by love, or afraid to be truly seen. We may long to connect with our partners but fear rejection, feel intense anger, or find ourselves constantly pleasing others to feel worthy. These struggles can leave us feeling anxious, disconnected, or stuck. But these feelings aren’t who we are — they’re parts of us trying to protect us from pain or danger, shaped by our past. These parts of us are trying to keep us safe, even if their methods feel overwhelming. I can provide opportunities to gently explore, connect to and understand these parts and their underlaying pain.
Many of us feel like we are not good enough, overwhelmed by love, or afraid to be truly seen. We may long to connect with our partners but fear rejection, feel intense anger, or find ourselves constantly pleasing others to feel worthy. These struggles can leave us feeling anxious, disconnected, or stuck. But these feelings aren’t who we are — they’re parts of us trying to protect us from pain or danger, shaped by our past. These parts of us are trying to keep us safe, even if their methods feel overwhelming. I can provide opportunities to gently explore, connect to and understand these parts and their underlaying pain.
(08) 6171 3161 View (08) 6171 3161
Photo of Jaz Forrester - Core Trauma Therapy, Counsellor, PACFA
Core Trauma Therapy
Counsellor, PACFA
Online Only
I work with folks navigating mental health, existential anxiety, complex trauma, sexual assault, domestic violence, post traumatic stress, systemic harm, identity exploration, grief, family estrangement/enmeshment, substance use, and burnout.
In a world that’s becoming increasingly automated, I aim to offer a deeply human space for deep meaning-making and healing. I am here to support you as you reconnect or expand yourself, find your own voice, and move forward on your terms. You don’t need to have it all figured out - just a space to land - I'm here to meet you in the messy.
I work with folks navigating mental health, existential anxiety, complex trauma, sexual assault, domestic violence, post traumatic stress, systemic harm, identity exploration, grief, family estrangement/enmeshment, substance use, and burnout.
In a world that’s becoming increasingly automated, I aim to offer a deeply human space for deep meaning-making and healing. I am here to support you as you reconnect or expand yourself, find your own voice, and move forward on your terms. You don’t need to have it all figured out - just a space to land - I'm here to meet you in the messy.
(03) 7003 2361 View (03) 7003 2361
Photo of Jane Lumley - Jane Lumley - People Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Jane Lumley - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Melbourne, VIC 3000
Jane has experience in: Child Community Health settings Sexual Assault Counselling Psychiatric Inpatient care Counselling for general psychological problems Jane can provide psychologist reports.
Jane has experience counselling clients and can help you with: Emotional Dysregulation Counselling for Trauma Anxiety Depression Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Divorce Domestic Abuse Domestic Violence Emotional Disturbance Parenting Peer Relationships Self-Esteem Self-Harming Sexual Abuse Sexual Assault Sleep or Insomnia Stress Trauma and PTSD (Post
Jane has experience in: Child Community Health settings Sexual Assault Counselling Psychiatric Inpatient care Counselling for general psychological problems Jane can provide psychologist reports.
Jane has experience counselling clients and can help you with: Emotional Dysregulation Counselling for Trauma Anxiety Depression Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Divorce Domestic Abuse Domestic Violence Emotional Disturbance Parenting Peer Relationships Self-Esteem Self-Harming Sexual Abuse Sexual Assault Sleep or Insomnia Stress Trauma and PTSD (Post
(03) 7003 2782 View (03) 7003 2782
Photo of Dr Melissa Vella, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Melissa Vella
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Officer, VIC 3809
Hi there, let me guess... You are here because you used to be able to cope. You have faced a lot of things in your life, and have always managed. But you are now struggling, and you are surprised and feeling shame that you can’t tough this one out. You have compassion for others who aren’t coping and are always the strong one, the listening ear. But somehow, you see yourself as different, you are not supposed to fall apart. And certainly not now.
Hi there, let me guess... You are here because you used to be able to cope. You have faced a lot of things in your life, and have always managed. But you are now struggling, and you are surprised and feeling shame that you can’t tough this one out. You have compassion for others who aren’t coping and are always the strong one, the listening ear. But somehow, you see yourself as different, you are not supposed to fall apart. And certainly not now.
View
Damien Gafforini
Social Worker, AMHSW
Doreen, VIC 3754
I have 20 years of experience, in particular supporting those whom have experienced some form of traumatic event (especially sexual abuse).
I have 20 years of counselling experience. With degree’s in Psychology, Social Work and Child Psychotherapy. I provide specialised supports for clients who have complex trauma through the use of such tools as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), Neurofeedback, QEEG and trauma therapy. I also provide Couples Counselling.
I have 20 years of experience, in particular supporting those whom have experienced some form of traumatic event (especially sexual abuse).
I have 20 years of counselling experience. With degree’s in Psychology, Social Work and Child Psychotherapy. I provide specialised supports for clients who have complex trauma through the use of such tools as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), Neurofeedback, QEEG and trauma therapy. I also provide Couples Counselling.
(03) 9068 6002 View (03) 9068 6002
Photo of Kerryann Henry - KerryAnn Henry -Individual & Couples Therapy, Social Worker, AASW
KerryAnn Henry -Individual & Couples Therapy
Social Worker, AASW
Serves Area
I work with all issues such as childhood trauma, PTSD, DV/FV, anger, anxiety, sexual assault, communication, trust, shame, sexual issues, infidelity, addictions, parenting, ASD, MI & grief.
Empathic, safe & caring, using highly skilled proven attachment & relationship therapies- we work together as a team. You'll learn the relationship is the issue - not the individuals. Everyone deserves the best relationships possible; strong relationships being crucial to our individual wellbeing as well as our family's health & wellbeing outcomes.
I work with all issues such as childhood trauma, PTSD, DV/FV, anger, anxiety, sexual assault, communication, trust, shame, sexual issues, infidelity, addictions, parenting, ASD, MI & grief.
Empathic, safe & caring, using highly skilled proven attachment & relationship therapies- we work together as a team. You'll learn the relationship is the issue - not the individuals. Everyone deserves the best relationships possible; strong relationships being crucial to our individual wellbeing as well as our family's health & wellbeing outcomes.
(02) 5503 9341 View (02) 5503 9341
Photo of Sarah Jones, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Sarah Jones
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Preston, VIC 3072
Sarah Jones is an effective therapist with 25 years’ experience counselling adults, couples, and older adolescents (15 years and older). She is a Clinical Member of the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia, and a senior clinician who has contributed to the field through providing professional development and supervision of other counsellors. Sarah works with individuals and couples addressing their mental health, communication and fulfilment in life.
Sarah Jones is an effective therapist with 25 years’ experience counselling adults, couples, and older adolescents (15 years and older). She is a Clinical Member of the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia, and a senior clinician who has contributed to the field through providing professional development and supervision of other counsellors. Sarah works with individuals and couples addressing their mental health, communication and fulfilment in life.
(03) 8338 1006 View (03) 8338 1006
Photo of Amy Della-Torre, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Amy Della-Torre
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
Hiya, I'm Amy. I'm a Gestalt Psychotherapist who aims to create a space where you can show up, be real and talk about the hard stuff in life. My aim is not to fix but rather to be someone who you can cofide in and who genuinely cares about you! I work with adults and young people on things like trauma and its ongoing impacts, life transitions, stress and burnout, sexuality and gender identity, grief and loss... All the hard, human stuff.
Hiya, I'm Amy. I'm a Gestalt Psychotherapist who aims to create a space where you can show up, be real and talk about the hard stuff in life. My aim is not to fix but rather to be someone who you can cofide in and who genuinely cares about you! I work with adults and young people on things like trauma and its ongoing impacts, life transitions, stress and burnout, sexuality and gender identity, grief and loss... All the hard, human stuff.
(07) 2100 4671 View (07) 2100 4671
Sexual Abuse Therapists
How do therapists treat sexual abuse?
A good therapist will be nonjudgmental and possibly demonstrate active listening, repeating back what the client says to show that they have understood. These skills allow people to feel comfortable discussing their traumatic experiences openly. Some important treatment goals are to restore a sense of safety and to rebuild confidence. In addition to working one-on-one with the patient, a therapist might bring in supportive family members to assist the client.

Do you have to talk extensively about sexual abuse in therapy?
Survivors frequently find it difficult to describe what happened to them out loud. They can even still be in a state of denial if the sexual abuse occurred recently. It is important for survivors to acknowledge that what happened isn’t their fault and to challenge and reappraise any unhealthy feelings or thoughts as they arise. Art therapy and play therapy are useful non-verbal means of communication for some survivors.

How long does treatment for sexual abuse take?
Recovery from sexual abuse can be a long and difficult process. Some survivors are able to move on naturally on their own, given time, while others require the guidance of a trained therapist. Therapy needs vary and can range from a few sessions to months or even years. Healing from sexual abuse takes time, and everyone’s journey will look a little different.

Can trauma symptoms caused by sexual abuse come back after treatment?
As occurs in many cases of trauma, survivors of sexual abuse may experience PTSD-like symptoms long after the abuse has ceased or after an initial round of treatment has occurred. In such a case, there is evidence that prolonged exposure therapy is a useful treatment for survivors, and may be more efficacious than supportive counseling alone. While triggers may continue to cause distress, the idea is that, with time and repeated exposure, their power will fade, allowing survivors to move on with their lives.