Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Psychologists and Therapists in Oakleigh, VIC

Photo of Ruth Adams - Ruth Adams Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Ruth Adams Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Oakleigh, VIC 3166
I work collaboratively with my clients to develop a deeper sense of themselves so they can make clearer decisions about which parts of their lives and their selves require more self- acceptance, which parts they would like to heal or change, and to build the capacity to make those changes.
I am a holistic Psychologist with over ten years experience working with people who have experienced trauma, complex relationships, financial and work related stress, as well as parenting and generational tension.
I work collaboratively with my clients to develop a deeper sense of themselves so they can make clearer decisions about which parts of their lives and their selves require more self- acceptance, which parts they would like to heal or change, and to build the capacity to make those changes.
I am a holistic Psychologist with over ten years experience working with people who have experienced trauma, complex relationships, financial and work related stress, as well as parenting and generational tension.
(03) 7500 5881 View (03) 7500 5881
Photo of Shanilka Heath - Nirvana Psychology , Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Nirvana Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Oakleigh, VIC 3166
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 Ruth Tripkou, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Ruth Tripkou
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I am a bilingual psychologist (English and Greek) working with anxiety, social anxiety, phobias, depression, trauma, attention deficits, autism, grief and loss, chronic pain, relationship and family difficulties, life transitions, and workplace stress. I also work with bullying, social skills difficulties and self-esteem. Deciding to engage in therapy can sometimes feel overwhelming and this is normal. I offer a safe, non-judgemental and supportive therapeutic space to help you move forward in your journey of healing and growth. I believe in empowering clients and developing personal strengths to achieve long lasting change.
I am a bilingual psychologist (English and Greek) working with anxiety, social anxiety, phobias, depression, trauma, attention deficits, autism, grief and loss, chronic pain, relationship and family difficulties, life transitions, and workplace stress. I also work with bullying, social skills difficulties and self-esteem. Deciding to engage in therapy can sometimes feel overwhelming and this is normal. I offer a safe, non-judgemental and supportive therapeutic space to help you move forward in your journey of healing and growth. I believe in empowering clients and developing personal strengths to achieve long lasting change.
(03) 7003 2887 View (03) 7003 2887
Photo of Christine Malios, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Christine Malios
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Using interpersonal therapy and psychodynamic approaches, I tailor CBT, ACT, DBT, and mindfulness to meet your unique needs.
Hello, I’m Christine, a registered psychologist. I work with adults managing ADHD or Autism, anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, grief and loss, and mid-life transitions such as perimenopause and menopause. I work well with clients who want their inner experience to be understood and held with care, and who value a collaborative partner to help them recognise patterns, clarify their needs and enhance their wellbeing. I offer a steady, supportive space to reduce overwhelm, make sense of your experiences, and build practical strategies that align with your neurotype, values and daily realities.
Using interpersonal therapy and psychodynamic approaches, I tailor CBT, ACT, DBT, and mindfulness to meet your unique needs.
Hello, I’m Christine, a registered psychologist. I work with adults managing ADHD or Autism, anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, grief and loss, and mid-life transitions such as perimenopause and menopause. I work well with clients who want their inner experience to be understood and held with care, and who value a collaborative partner to help them recognise patterns, clarify their needs and enhance their wellbeing. I offer a steady, supportive space to reduce overwhelm, make sense of your experiences, and build practical strategies that align with your neurotype, values and daily realities.
(03) 8771 5304 View (03) 8771 5304
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 Rachel O'meara, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Rachel O'meara
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Rachel is a compassionate Psychologist dedicated to providing support to individuals across the lifespan, from children to adolescents and adults, who are navigating a variety of challenges. With experience in Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Trauma and Stressor Related Disorders, family violence and physical disabilities, Rachel brings a comprehensive approach to her practice. She believes in the power of strengths-based intervention plans tailored to each person’s unique needs, fostering a sense of empowerment and agency.
Rachel is a compassionate Psychologist dedicated to providing support to individuals across the lifespan, from children to adolescents and adults, who are navigating a variety of challenges. With experience in Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Trauma and Stressor Related Disorders, family violence and physical disabilities, Rachel brings a comprehensive approach to her practice. She believes in the power of strengths-based intervention plans tailored to each person’s unique needs, fostering a sense of empowerment and agency.
(03) 7003 2714 View (03) 7003 2714
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 Kara Lee John, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Kara Lee John
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialise in trauma informed care and have a deep understanding of the complex and long-lasting impacts it can have on you. In some cases, therapy itself can be a source of more trauma. Your safety is my highest priority as we work together and empower you to have a say in how we approach your symptoms. There is no one size fits all and so with your feedback, we will find the best suited interventions for you.
I specialise in trauma informed care and have a deep understanding of the complex and long-lasting impacts it can have on you. In some cases, therapy itself can be a source of more trauma. Your safety is my highest priority as we work together and empower you to have a say in how we approach your symptoms. There is no one size fits all and so with your feedback, we will find the best suited interventions for you.
(03) 7500 5629 View (03) 7500 5629
Photo of Olivia Syposs, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Olivia Syposs
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Navigating life’s transitions, relationships, and personal challenges can feel daunting, but you don’t have to face them alone. I specialise in working with adolescents young adults in their 20s and 30s who are navigating relationship challenges, eating disorders, family trauma, mood disorders, and the ripple effects of complex family dynamics or sustained trauma. Together, we’ll create a space where your story is valued, your experiences are understood, and your goals take center stage.
Navigating life’s transitions, relationships, and personal challenges can feel daunting, but you don’t have to face them alone. I specialise in working with adolescents young adults in their 20s and 30s who are navigating relationship challenges, eating disorders, family trauma, mood disorders, and the ripple effects of complex family dynamics or sustained trauma. Together, we’ll create a space where your story is valued, your experiences are understood, and your goals take center stage.
(03) 7500 5494 View (03) 7500 5494
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 Tim Clark, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Tim Clark
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I offer an empathetic ear and an atmosphere of acceptance so that you can explore the tough aspects of your experiences without fear of judgement.
My clients often are looking for ways to better handle the challenges of daily living. You may be feeling these challenges are insurmountable or that you are fundamentally unable to cope. You might not feel that you have a good understanding of who you truly are, what it is you want out of life, or what you have to offer others. You might also struggle to draw on the resources around you and make the most of your personal relationships. You may struggle to find the voice inside to reassure yourself that, as hard as things can feel, they can change. These things don't make you defective; they make you human.
I offer an empathetic ear and an atmosphere of acceptance so that you can explore the tough aspects of your experiences without fear of judgement.
My clients often are looking for ways to better handle the challenges of daily living. You may be feeling these challenges are insurmountable or that you are fundamentally unable to cope. You might not feel that you have a good understanding of who you truly are, what it is you want out of life, or what you have to offer others. You might also struggle to draw on the resources around you and make the most of your personal relationships. You may struggle to find the voice inside to reassure yourself that, as hard as things can feel, they can change. These things don't make you defective; they make you human.
(03) 9068 5168 View (03) 9068 5168
Photo of Natalie Miller, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Natalie Miller
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
I use various therapeutic approaches to inform treatment, including Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT).
I am a Clinical Psychologist with experience in both the private and government sectors. I work with adolescents (17 years and older), young adults, and adults, and I’m especially passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
I use various therapeutic approaches to inform treatment, including Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT).
I am a Clinical Psychologist with experience in both the private and government sectors. I work with adolescents (17 years and older), young adults, and adults, and I’m especially passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
(03) 8771 4800 View (03) 8771 4800
Photo of Denise Wong, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Denise Wong
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Denise emphasises establishing a strong connection, before exploring thoughts, feelings, and narratives to help clients develop insight into their difficulties. And most importantly, Denise is passionate about turning insights into action to improve the quality of people’s lives. Denise has experience supporting individuals across the lifespan with anxiety, depression, interpersonal difficulties, trauma, self-esteem, and body image concerns. Moreover, Denise supports people to better understand themselves for personal growth. Denise has experience in private practice, schools, telehealth and crisis support.
Denise emphasises establishing a strong connection, before exploring thoughts, feelings, and narratives to help clients develop insight into their difficulties. And most importantly, Denise is passionate about turning insights into action to improve the quality of people’s lives. Denise has experience supporting individuals across the lifespan with anxiety, depression, interpersonal difficulties, trauma, self-esteem, and body image concerns. Moreover, Denise supports people to better understand themselves for personal growth. Denise has experience in private practice, schools, telehealth and crisis support.
(03) 7003 2927 View (03) 7003 2927
Photo of Tori Orit Brand - Brand Counselling Services, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Brand Counselling Services
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Serves Area
I believe that loving yourself is the foundation for healthy, fulfilling relationships with others. Life can be challenging, and it’s easy to lose your sense of direction, confidence, or self-worth along the way. With over 18 years of experience, I support clients with warmth, empathy, and unconditional understanding, creating a safe space to explore challenges, heal, and grow. Together, we work to help you reconnect with your true self, build self-compassion, and gain the clarity and tools you need to navigate life’s difficulties, and to attain your goals, be they emotional balance, stronger relationships or personal growth.
I believe that loving yourself is the foundation for healthy, fulfilling relationships with others. Life can be challenging, and it’s easy to lose your sense of direction, confidence, or self-worth along the way. With over 18 years of experience, I support clients with warmth, empathy, and unconditional understanding, creating a safe space to explore challenges, heal, and grow. Together, we work to help you reconnect with your true self, build self-compassion, and gain the clarity and tools you need to navigate life’s difficulties, and to attain your goals, be they emotional balance, stronger relationships or personal growth.
(03) 7500 5808 View (03) 7500 5808
Photo of Mel Sahin, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Mel Sahin
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I use evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), while recognising that everyone’s experiences are unique.
You might be feeling overwhelmed, stuck in your thoughts, or having trouble switching off. Perhaps anxiety is feeling big, your mood feels low, or everyday tasks feel more difficult than they should. You might also feel like your mind is always busy, scattered, or working against you rather than with you. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, and those with ADHD or autism who want to better understand themselves and feel more in control of their lives. Together, we can understand your experiences— whether it's managing emotions, reducing overthinking, building confidence, or navigating daily life.
I use evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), while recognising that everyone’s experiences are unique.
You might be feeling overwhelmed, stuck in your thoughts, or having trouble switching off. Perhaps anxiety is feeling big, your mood feels low, or everyday tasks feel more difficult than they should. You might also feel like your mind is always busy, scattered, or working against you rather than with you. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, and those with ADHD or autism who want to better understand themselves and feel more in control of their lives. Together, we can understand your experiences— whether it's managing emotions, reducing overthinking, building confidence, or navigating daily life.
(03) 8771 5920 View (03) 8771 5920
Photo of Alexander Thornton, Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Alexander Thornton
Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Serves Area
I offer an eclectic and integrated approach to helping client's to successfully manage their lives. I am deeply committed to drawing-out the client's own innate potential to respond to their challenges. I firmly believe the 'obstacle is the way'. Rebates are available for clients with mental health treatment plans from their GP. More information available at www.stillpointpsychology.com.au
I offer an eclectic and integrated approach to helping client's to successfully manage their lives. I am deeply committed to drawing-out the client's own innate potential to respond to their challenges. I firmly believe the 'obstacle is the way'. Rebates are available for clients with mental health treatment plans from their GP. More information available at www.stillpointpsychology.com.au
(03) 9068 5682 View (03) 9068 5682
Photo of Helen Gribi, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Helen Gribi
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Online Only
There are times in life when it’s important to reach out for help. I enjoy working with a range of people and presentations including: anxiety or mood challenges, life adjustments, work and academic stress, self-esteem, boundaries and assertiveness development, trauma, grief and loss, relationship issues, and support for people in carer roles. Women's health is a particular interest, including antenatal and postnatal through to menopause support, and neurodivergence (ADHD and Autism) in women.
There are times in life when it’s important to reach out for help. I enjoy working with a range of people and presentations including: anxiety or mood challenges, life adjustments, work and academic stress, self-esteem, boundaries and assertiveness development, trauma, grief and loss, relationship issues, and support for people in carer roles. Women's health is a particular interest, including antenatal and postnatal through to menopause support, and neurodivergence (ADHD and Autism) in women.
(03) 8771 5128 View (03) 8771 5128
Photo of Elaine Mong, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Elaine Mong
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I use a range of evidence-based approaches including CBT, ACT, DBT, and Schema Therapy.
I offer a supportive and non-judgemental space, with respect for your experiences, culture, and pace. My practice is person-centred and collaborative, drawing from evidence-based approaches to explore what matters most to you. People may seek psychological support for reasons including anxiety, low mood, trauma, grief, or significant life changes. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck in familiar patterns, or unsure where to start, you’re not alone. Sometimes it can be hard to put what you’re experiencing into words — and that’s okay. Through therapy, there is space to explore this together, at a pace that feels right for you.
I use a range of evidence-based approaches including CBT, ACT, DBT, and Schema Therapy.
I offer a supportive and non-judgemental space, with respect for your experiences, culture, and pace. My practice is person-centred and collaborative, drawing from evidence-based approaches to explore what matters most to you. People may seek psychological support for reasons including anxiety, low mood, trauma, grief, or significant life changes. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck in familiar patterns, or unsure where to start, you’re not alone. Sometimes it can be hard to put what you’re experiencing into words — and that’s okay. Through therapy, there is space to explore this together, at a pace that feels right for you.
(03) 8771 4299 View (03) 8771 4299
Photo of Dr Megan Dobbie, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Megan Dobbie
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Often people present to my services and are unsure of what they want, need, or how a psychologist can help. It is my job to make a space for you to explore what may help, and for me to use my expertise to put a "scaffold" around you as we navigate the next steps together. I work with all commonly experienced conditions such as depression, anxiety, stress, those experiencing major transitions in life, and have significant expertise working with trauma presentations in emergency services personnel. It is humbling and a priviledge to be able to do the work I do, and have people trust in my care when they are in need of support.
Often people present to my services and are unsure of what they want, need, or how a psychologist can help. It is my job to make a space for you to explore what may help, and for me to use my expertise to put a "scaffold" around you as we navigate the next steps together. I work with all commonly experienced conditions such as depression, anxiety, stress, those experiencing major transitions in life, and have significant expertise working with trauma presentations in emergency services personnel. It is humbling and a priviledge to be able to do the work I do, and have people trust in my care when they are in need of support.
(03) 8771 4821 View (03) 8771 4821
Photo of Rosanna Giorno, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Rosanna Giorno
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
PCT recognises the client as the expert in their own life and focuses on helping individuals to understand themselves through increasing self- acceptance and self-esteem.
I am a compassionate, empathic and intuitive counsellor who is experienced in supporting adolescents, adults and couples. I am registered with the Australian Counselling Association and support clients to overcome a wide range of issues and significant life challenges. My particular interest is in promoting self-awareness and strong interpersonal relationships to help clients achieve their full potential so that they can thrive in all facets of their lives. True self-awareness can lead to positive self-development that aligns with your values and life purpose. Let me help you to achieve your potential.
PCT recognises the client as the expert in their own life and focuses on helping individuals to understand themselves through increasing self- acceptance and self-esteem.
I am a compassionate, empathic and intuitive counsellor who is experienced in supporting adolescents, adults and couples. I am registered with the Australian Counselling Association and support clients to overcome a wide range of issues and significant life challenges. My particular interest is in promoting self-awareness and strong interpersonal relationships to help clients achieve their full potential so that they can thrive in all facets of their lives. True self-awareness can lead to positive self-development that aligns with your values and life purpose. Let me help you to achieve your potential.
(03) 7500 5767 View (03) 7500 5767
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.