Self Esteem Psychologists and Therapists in Oakleigh, VIC

Photo of Brigitte Benary, Counsellor
Brigitte Benary
Counsellor
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My client-centered, nurturing approach helps restore self-confidence, trust, and self-worth.
Life can feel overwhelming when emotions run deep or your world has shifted in ways you didn’t expect. I support women and individuals navigating grief, trauma, birth loss, identity changes, behavioural challenges, and emotional overwhelm. My approach integrates art therapy, somatic awareness, and transpersonal counselling to gently explore what is held beneath the surface. Working from Murrumbeena, and supporting clients across Carnegie, Hughesdale, Oakleigh, and Bentleigh, I offer a grounded, safe space to reconnect with yourself and move forward with clarity and strength.
My client-centered, nurturing approach helps restore self-confidence, trust, and self-worth.
Life can feel overwhelming when emotions run deep or your world has shifted in ways you didn’t expect. I support women and individuals navigating grief, trauma, birth loss, identity changes, behavioural challenges, and emotional overwhelm. My approach integrates art therapy, somatic awareness, and transpersonal counselling to gently explore what is held beneath the surface. Working from Murrumbeena, and supporting clients across Carnegie, Hughesdale, Oakleigh, and Bentleigh, I offer a grounded, safe space to reconnect with yourself and move forward with clarity and strength.
(03) 8771 4178 View (03) 8771 4178
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 Kate Hill - The Play Therapy Studio , Counsellor, AASW
The Play Therapy Studio
Counsellor, AASW
Serves Area
EMDR & Play based parent and/or child sessions can be really impactful way of helping you connect with your child to work through inner feelings, and process what might be challenging in your relationship. It is often really tough for children to express what's going on for them using words, and this is often why they find ways to communicate with us through their behaviour. This can feel scary and overwhelming for us as caregivers, who may just be needing things to become a little easier at home. I also offer EMDR to children and adolescents - allowing young people to safely process their internal needs and worries meaningfully.
EMDR & Play based parent and/or child sessions can be really impactful way of helping you connect with your child to work through inner feelings, and process what might be challenging in your relationship. It is often really tough for children to express what's going on for them using words, and this is often why they find ways to communicate with us through their behaviour. This can feel scary and overwhelming for us as caregivers, who may just be needing things to become a little easier at home. I also offer EMDR to children and adolescents - allowing young people to safely process their internal needs and worries meaningfully.
(03) 7500 5114 View (03) 7500 5114
Photo of Dr Christine James, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Christine James
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
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.
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 Mel Sahin, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Mel Sahin
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
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.
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 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 Priscilla Louise Jones, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Priscilla Louise Jones
Counsellor, ACA-L1
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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 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 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 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 Nicola Collins - Kids At Max - Psych, Speech & OT, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Kids At Max - Psych, Speech & OT
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Serves Area
ADHD) Autism (ASD) Bullying Challenging behaviours Depression Family issues Giftedness Intellectual Disability Learning issues Resilience & coping Relationships School readiness School refusal Self-esteem & assertiveness Sleep difficulties Special needs funding
Kids At Max provides counselling and psychological assessments for children and adolescents. We support a wide range of emotional, behavioural and developmental needs through personalised, family-centred care. Appointments are available in clinic, at home, at school and via telehealth, with funding options including NDIS, Medicare, Private Health Insurance and TAC. After an initial assessment, we work with families to create a tailored therapy plan with practical strategies and engaging sessions that support each child’s goals.
ADHD) Autism (ASD) Bullying Challenging behaviours Depression Family issues Giftedness Intellectual Disability Learning issues Resilience & coping Relationships School readiness School refusal Self-esteem & assertiveness Sleep difficulties Special needs funding
Kids At Max provides counselling and psychological assessments for children and adolescents. We support a wide range of emotional, behavioural and developmental needs through personalised, family-centred care. Appointments are available in clinic, at home, at school and via telehealth, with funding options including NDIS, Medicare, Private Health Insurance and TAC. After an initial assessment, we work with families to create a tailored therapy plan with practical strategies and engaging sessions that support each child’s goals.
(03) 8771 4119 View (03) 8771 4119
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 Brenda Taylor, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Brenda Taylor
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a caring Clinical Psychologist offering therapy for mental health issues. With 15 years of experience, I provide a safe and encouraging space for adults, children and teens to explore their thoughts and emotions, helping them focus on their wellbeing. I use evidence-based treatment and a warm and caring approach to your mental wellbeing. I work with adults with ADHD and Autism, am neuroaffirming and trauma informed. I also work with anxiety, trauma, depression, parenting issues and offer coaching for ADHD. If you'd like to make an appointment feel free to email or leave a message. I work on Mondays and Wednesdays.
I am a caring Clinical Psychologist offering therapy for mental health issues. With 15 years of experience, I provide a safe and encouraging space for adults, children and teens to explore their thoughts and emotions, helping them focus on their wellbeing. I use evidence-based treatment and a warm and caring approach to your mental wellbeing. I work with adults with ADHD and Autism, am neuroaffirming and trauma informed. I also work with anxiety, trauma, depression, parenting issues and offer coaching for ADHD. If you'd like to make an appointment feel free to email or leave a message. I work on Mondays and Wednesdays.
(03) 5924 0088 View (03) 5924 0088
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 Christine Malios, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Christine Malios
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
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.
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 Ruth Tripkou, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Ruth Tripkou
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I also work with bullying, social skills difficulties and self-esteem.
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 also work with bullying, social skills difficulties and self-esteem.
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 Dr Geraldine Lockley, Psychologist, PsychD, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Dr Geraldine Lockley
Psychologist, PsychD, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Serves Area
I work with adults who are looking for support to improve their mental health and sense of wellbeing. I support people who are 'feeling stuck' in dealing with relationship challenges, anxiety and worry, low mood and stress and burnout, amongst other things. We will work to understand unhelpful patterns and make positive change.
I work with adults who are looking for support to improve their mental health and sense of wellbeing. I support people who are 'feeling stuck' in dealing with relationship challenges, anxiety and worry, low mood and stress and burnout, amongst other things. We will work to understand unhelpful patterns and make positive change.
(03) 7003 2767 View (03) 7003 2767
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 Laura Prior, Social Worker, AASW
Laura Prior
Social Worker, AASW
Serves Area
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 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 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 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 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
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 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
Self Esteem Therapists
When should a person seek therapy for low self-esteem?
When self-esteem problems begin to disrupt the healthy daily functioning of an individual, it may be a good time to look into therapy. If a person finds that they are not engaging with friends for fear of being judged, not completing work assignments because they don’t think they’re capable, or not finding romantic love because they don’t feel they’re worthy of it, a therapist may be able to help.

What are the signs of low self-esteem?
Low self-esteem is a common issue that can affect a person's mental and emotional well-being. Some common signs of low self-esteem include negative self-talk, perfectionism, social anxiety, difficulty making decisions, an inability to set boundaries, people-pleasing, and others. A lack of belief in oneself or one’s abilities and a feeling of not being worthy or deserving underlie most of these characteristics.

What causes low self-esteem?
Feelings of low self-worth can begin in childhood or adulthood. Being raised by a highly critical parent or growing up feeling constant disapproval can stay with a person well into adulthood. Specific issues in adulthood may also be a cause of low self-esteem. An unhappy relationship, a dysfunctional work or school experience can impact a person’s feelings of self-worth.

How can therapy improve self-esteem?
Therapists can help identify negative thought patterns that keep the client stuck in a loop of destructive self-talk and develop coping skills to change the voice in their head. A therapist can help with goal-setting, so that clients are better able to stay on task and build confidence from successfully completing work they’re proud of. Coaching a client on how to better communicate can improve relationships. These skills can result in someone with low self-esteem feeling empowered and living with less fear.