Anxiety Psychologists and Therapists in Oakleigh, VIC

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 Adams - Ruth Adams Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Ruth Adams Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Oakleigh, VIC 3166
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 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 Rachel O'meara, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Rachel O'meara
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
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.
Rachel understands that creating a therapeutic relationship built on trust and empathy is essential for positive outcomes. She believes in taking a holistic approach that involves collaborating closely with families and support teams, recognizing the integral role they play in therapeutic success.
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.
Rachel understands that creating a therapeutic relationship built on trust and empathy is essential for positive outcomes. She believes in taking a holistic approach that involves collaborating closely with families and support teams, recognizing the integral role they play in therapeutic success.
(03) 7003 2714 View (03) 7003 2714
Photo of Brenda Taylor, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Brenda Taylor
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I also work with anxiety, trauma, depression, parenting issues and offer coaching for ADHD.
I am experienced in a number of therapies including Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Interpersonal Therapy and Positive psychology and ADHD coaching. This is a collaborative relationship where you are supported.
I also work with anxiety, trauma, depression, parenting issues and offer coaching for ADHD.
I am experienced in a number of therapies including Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Interpersonal Therapy and Positive psychology and ADHD coaching. This is a collaborative relationship where you are supported.
(03) 5924 0088 View (03) 5924 0088
Photo of Alexander Thornton, Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Alexander Thornton
Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Serves Area
My early career was as a military psychologist, and from this I was able to develop skills helping service personnel with trauma, adjustment issues, anxiety, skill development and relationship difficulties.
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
My early career was as a military psychologist, and from this I was able to develop skills helping service personnel with trauma, adjustment issues, anxiety, skill development and relationship difficulties.
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
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.
I am a registered psychologist with a passion for building hope and seeing lives lived to the full. I have a warm and collaborative approach and value developing strong therapeutic relationships. Using evidence-based treatment interventions, I work with you to achieve positive outcomes, improved wellbeing, and meet individual goals.
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.
I am a registered psychologist with a passion for building hope and seeing lives lived to the full. I have a warm and collaborative approach and value developing strong therapeutic relationships. Using evidence-based treatment interventions, I work with you to achieve positive outcomes, improved wellbeing, and meet individual goals.
(03) 8771 5128 View (03) 8771 5128
Photo of Denise Wong, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Denise Wong
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Denise has experience supporting individuals across the lifespan with anxiety, depression, interpersonal difficulties, trauma, self-esteem, and body image concerns.
Clients describe Denise as calm, engaging, thought provoking, genuine and accepting. Clients appreciate her sense of humour, warmth and openness to new ideas. In her personal time, Denise enjoys watching crime/medical dramas and taking dance classes. Medicare rebate of $93.35 for clients with Mental Health Care Plan. Appointments on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
Denise has experience supporting individuals across the lifespan with anxiety, depression, interpersonal difficulties, trauma, self-esteem, and body image concerns.
Clients describe Denise as calm, engaging, thought provoking, genuine and accepting. Clients appreciate her sense of humour, warmth and openness to new ideas. In her personal time, Denise enjoys watching crime/medical dramas and taking dance classes. Medicare rebate of $93.35 for clients with Mental Health Care Plan. Appointments on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
(03) 7003 2927 View (03) 7003 2927
Photo of Natalie Miller, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Natalie Miller
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
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 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 Tori Orit Brand - Brand Counselling Services, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Brand Counselling Services
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Serves Area
My clients are usually either individuals or couples, and struggle with various issues, be they in their relationships with partners, parents or children, or in coping with anxiety, stress, depression, grief or loss.
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.
My clients are usually either individuals or couples, and struggle with various issues, be they in their relationships with partners, parents or children, or in coping with anxiety, stress, depression, grief or loss.
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 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 am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with over 20 years experience working with people with complex issues including mental health, substance abuse and trauma to name a few. I have a gentle, compassionate non-judgmental approach. I have a passion for helping people feel valued, and loved and to live the life they were created to live.
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 am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with over 20 years experience working with people with complex issues including mental health, substance abuse and trauma to name a few. I have a gentle, compassionate non-judgmental approach. I have a passion for helping people feel valued, and loved and to live the life they were created to live.
(03) 8613 3470 View (03) 8613 3470
Photo of Cristian John Acciarito, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Cristian John Acciarito
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I have experience working with a variety of presentations, and has worked with adults and adolescents on issues including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem, resilience, assertiveness, coping, sleep issues, drug and alcohol issues, and addictive behaviours.
I focus on a warm, compassionate, and respectful style which incorporates a variety of techniques and approaches, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Attachment Theory, and Schema Therapy.
I have experience working with a variety of presentations, and has worked with adults and adolescents on issues including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem, resilience, assertiveness, coping, sleep issues, drug and alcohol issues, and addictive behaviours.
I focus on a warm, compassionate, and respectful style which incorporates a variety of techniques and approaches, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Attachment Theory, and Schema Therapy.
(02) 4504 0240 View (02) 4504 0240
Photo of Mel Sahin, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Mel Sahin
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Perhaps anxiety is feeling big, your mood feels low, or everyday tasks feel more difficult than they should.
My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to you. 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. This means we focus on practical strategies that feel realistic, supportive, and that support meaningful change.
Perhaps anxiety is feeling big, your mood feels low, or everyday tasks feel more difficult than they should.
My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to you. 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. This means we focus on practical strategies that feel realistic, supportive, and that support meaningful change.
(03) 8771 5920 View (03) 8771 5920
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 Dr Geraldine Lockley, Psychologist, PsychD, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Dr Geraldine Lockley
Psychologist, PsychD, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Serves Area
I support people who are 'feeling stuck' in dealing with relationship challenges, anxiety and worry, low mood and stress and burnout, amongst other things.
I use a range of evidence based practices to support growth. Including mindfulness based cognitive behavioural strategies and solution focussed work.
I support people who are 'feeling stuck' in dealing with relationship challenges, anxiety and worry, low mood and stress and burnout, amongst other things.
I use a range of evidence based practices to support growth. Including mindfulness based cognitive behavioural strategies and solution focussed work.
(03) 7003 2767 View (03) 7003 2767
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.
My approach is, collaborative, culturally sensitive, and evidence-based. Together, we work to create a treatment plan that ensures each of your goals and needs is met and we move at a pace that works for you. I believe in creating a warm, respectful and nurturing therapeutic relationship that facilitates psychological growth and recovery.
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.
My approach is, collaborative, culturally sensitive, and evidence-based. Together, we work to create a treatment plan that ensures each of your goals and needs is met and we move at a pace that works for you. I believe in creating a warm, respectful and nurturing therapeutic relationship that facilitates psychological growth and recovery.
(03) 7003 2887 View (03) 7003 2887
Photo of Mona Gendy, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Mona Gendy
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Oakleigh, VIC 3166
As a counsellor, my desire is to help people by providing a safe environment where they can express their emotions, thoughts, fears, and where they can be open about how they feel.
Masters from Monash University in Counselling. Arabic speaking background, My counselling expertise includes, but is not limited to Stress, Anxiety, Addiction, Depression, Grief & Loss, Domestic Violence and Relationships issues. Self-referrals are welcome.
As a counsellor, my desire is to help people by providing a safe environment where they can express their emotions, thoughts, fears, and where they can be open about how they feel.
Masters from Monash University in Counselling. Arabic speaking background, My counselling expertise includes, but is not limited to Stress, Anxiety, Addiction, Depression, Grief & Loss, Domestic Violence and Relationships issues. Self-referrals are welcome.
(03) 8771 5878 View (03) 8771 5878
Photo of Priscilla Louise Jones, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Priscilla Louise Jones
Counsellor, ACA-L1
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I support individuals to stand in their true power by managing uncomfortable emotions, anxiety, imposter syndrome, and people pleasing tendencies.
I work with individuals and couples, supporting deeper connection and understanding. My approach is experiential; helping you feel closeness in the room and take practical tools home. If ongoing couples therapy feels hard to commit to, I offer full or half day intensive workshops focused on topics like love languages, intimacy, touch, communication, and conflict repair. A powerful option for couples wanting meaningful change in a short time.
I support individuals to stand in their true power by managing uncomfortable emotions, anxiety, imposter syndrome, and people pleasing tendencies.
I work with individuals and couples, supporting deeper connection and understanding. My approach is experiential; helping you feel closeness in the room and take practical tools home. If ongoing couples therapy feels hard to commit to, I offer full or half day intensive workshops focused on topics like love languages, intimacy, touch, communication, and conflict repair. A powerful option for couples wanting meaningful change in a short time.
(03) 8771 5632 View (03) 8771 5632
Photo of Akriti (Aki) Shrestha, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Akriti (Aki) Shrestha
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Akriti Shrestha (Aki) is a trilingual registered General Psychologist with a Masters in Psychology (Counselling Psychology). She has had experience working in both private and public communities with families and individuals, regarding complex situations pertaining to trauma, abuse, neglect, and family violence. She has worked with individuals of all age groups- from teenagers to older adults. She has also had experience completing Intelligence tests for children and has successfully conducted parenting programs aimed at helping parents of teenagers. ​
Akriti Shrestha (Aki) is a trilingual registered General Psychologist with a Masters in Psychology (Counselling Psychology). She has had experience working in both private and public communities with families and individuals, regarding complex situations pertaining to trauma, abuse, neglect, and family violence. She has worked with individuals of all age groups- from teenagers to older adults. She has also had experience completing Intelligence tests for children and has successfully conducted parenting programs aimed at helping parents of teenagers. ​
(03) 9560 8880 View (03) 9560 8880
Photo of Elaine Mong, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Elaine Mong
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
People may seek psychological support for reasons including anxiety, low mood, trauma, grief, or significant life changes.
I use a range of evidence-based approaches including CBT, ACT, DBT, and Schema Therapy. With experience across not-for-profit organisations and private practice, I bring warmth and flexibility in tailoring supports to meet your needs. I'm also conversational in Cantonese and Mandarin, welcoming clients from all cultural backgrounds.
People may seek psychological support for reasons including anxiety, low mood, trauma, grief, or significant life changes.
I use a range of evidence-based approaches including CBT, ACT, DBT, and Schema Therapy. With experience across not-for-profit organisations and private practice, I bring warmth and flexibility in tailoring supports to meet your needs. I'm also conversational in Cantonese and Mandarin, welcoming clients from all cultural backgrounds.
(03) 8771 4299 View (03) 8771 4299
Photo of Dr Christine James, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Christine James
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
For many clients with depression or anxiety, there may be underlying trauma.
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.
For many clients with depression or anxiety, there may be underlying trauma.
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
Anxiety Therapists
When should I seek treatment for anxiety?
Everyone feels anxious at times, but when anxiety causes disruption to your daily life, it may be time to seek help. Such disruption can be mental, physical, or both: having fear dominate your thoughts, avoiding situations or objects that bring on feelings of anxiety, or experiencing shortness of breath, sweating, dizziness, or panic attacks. When these symptoms are recurrent and distressing, it may be time to talk to someone.

What are the most common types of treatment for anxiety?
Talk therapy, particularly cognitive behavioural therapy, is the most common treatment for anxiety. Studies have shown it is equally effective as medication. Other forms of therapy are popular, depending on a patient’s experience. Exposure therapy, for instance, can be useful for people dealing with fears and phobias, or who have experienced traumatic events. Dialectical Behavioural Therapy may be useful for patients who need help with emotion regulation. Anxiolytic medications, like benzodiazepines, can also help with calming a person enough to focus on the skills they’ve learned, and physical exercise has been shown to help symptoms of anxiety across the board.

How long does therapy for anxiety take to work?
The amount of time needed to alleviate symptoms depends on the severity of a person’s condition. Some therapies may take 5-20 weekly sessions to show results. Anti-depressant medications typically take two to four weeks before a benefit is felt. Anti-anxiety medications are felt typically within 20-30 minutes. Medications are best used to offer a patient a better headspace in which to work on techniques learned in therapy. Exercise, improved sleep habits, and meditation are effective, but takes weeks or months to show results.

How effective is treatment for anxiety?
Treatment for anxiety has been shown to be moderately to highly effective, according to a large body of psychology studies and analyses. For some people, treatment using CBT or exposure therapy alone is effective. Others respond best to a combination of medication and therapy.