Trauma and PTSD 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 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.
My therapeutic philosophy is grounded in principles of unconditional positive regard and the dialectical belief that people are both doing the best they can and that they are capable of more. People often come to therapy when their normal coping strategies are not working, or when these coping strategies have become part of the problem
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.
My therapeutic philosophy is grounded in principles of unconditional positive regard and the dialectical belief that people are both doing the best they can and that they are capable of more. People often come to therapy when their normal coping strategies are not working, or when these coping strategies have become part of the problem
(03) 7500 5881 View (03) 7500 5881
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. Seeing my clients improving their issues, reaching their goals, overcoming their challenges and obstacles are the most fulfilling things for me as a counsellor. I have lived in different countries and witnessed different backgrounds. My experience counselling people with different issues and conditions taught me how to understand what my clients actually need so I can help as best as I can. Everyone has a unique story and I hope I can create a safe spa
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. Seeing my clients improving their issues, reaching their goals, overcoming their challenges and obstacles are the most fulfilling things for me as a counsellor. I have lived in different countries and witnessed different backgrounds. My experience counselling people with different issues and conditions taught me how to understand what my clients actually need so I can help as best as I can. Everyone has a unique story and I hope I can create a safe spa
(03) 8771 5878 View (03) 8771 5878
Photo of Dr Megan Dobbie, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Megan Dobbie
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
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.
I am an expert in single event and complex trauma. I am highly trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities from the basics of cognitive behavioural techniques, through to recent advancements across treatments for trauma using EMDR and associated protocols in online, individual, and group settings. I will offer you a pathway for your care and recovery.
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.
I am an expert in single event and complex trauma. I am highly trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities from the basics of cognitive behavioural techniques, through to recent advancements across treatments for trauma using EMDR and associated protocols in online, individual, and group settings. I will offer you a pathway for your care and recovery.
(03) 8771 4821 View (03) 8771 4821
Photo of Nasia Outsikas, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Nasia Outsikas
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I’m a psychologist who helps people work through trauma, relationship struggles, risky behaviours, and major life transitions.
I work with adults using evidence-based therapy. I offer flexible sessions in Caulfield North or in your home. My style is collaborative, practical, and grounded in therapies like DBT, CBT, EMDR, and mindfulness. I also respect the importance of cultural context and can incorporate faith into our work if it’s important to you.
I’m a psychologist who helps people work through trauma, relationship struggles, risky behaviours, and major life transitions.
I work with adults using evidence-based therapy. I offer flexible sessions in Caulfield North or in your home. My style is collaborative, practical, and grounded in therapies like DBT, CBT, EMDR, and mindfulness. I also respect the importance of cultural context and can incorporate faith into our work if it’s important to you.
(03) 8203 5929 View (03) 8203 5929
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 Monica Doyle - Monica Doyle - Online Therapy
Monica Doyle - Online Therapy
Verified Verified
Online Only
I also use Internal Family Systems, EMDR Flash Technique for trauma as well as mindfullness.
Do you feel on edge, easily distracted, or irritable? Do you catch yourself overanalyzing and questioning decisions or interactions with other people? Do you feel disconnected, lonely, or unsure of yourself? These are all natural feelings, and we all struggle sometimes. But occasionally life throws curve balls at us and moving forward requires a little more work. This can be especially true if you have recently experienced a significant life change. Therapy can offer the needed support and change of perspective by unveiling new insights. It can also bring lasting benefits to your relationships and interactions.
I also use Internal Family Systems, EMDR Flash Technique for trauma as well as mindfullness.
Do you feel on edge, easily distracted, or irritable? Do you catch yourself overanalyzing and questioning decisions or interactions with other people? Do you feel disconnected, lonely, or unsure of yourself? These are all natural feelings, and we all struggle sometimes. But occasionally life throws curve balls at us and moving forward requires a little more work. This can be especially true if you have recently experienced a significant life change. Therapy can offer the needed support and change of perspective by unveiling new insights. It can also bring lasting benefits to your relationships and interactions.
0485 990 706 View 0485 990 706
Photo of Olivia Syposs, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Olivia Syposs
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
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.
My approach is interpersonal and collaborative. I believe that you are the expert in your own life, and my role is to help guide, support, and explore alongside you—not as a superior but as a teammate in your journey toward healing and growth. I draw from psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioural therapy and schema therapy.
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.
My approach is interpersonal and collaborative. I believe that you are the expert in your own life, and my role is to help guide, support, and explore alongside you—not as a superior but as a teammate in your journey toward healing and growth. I draw from psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioural therapy and schema therapy.
(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 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 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.
Along with trauma, comes the emotions and behaviours that are interfering with your life. Anxiety, depression, difficult/abusive relationships, addictive behaviours, and self-harm can all be caused or made worse by a trauma history. Understanding these symptoms through an empathetic, trauma informed lens ensures we reach the actual source of the issue.
I specialise in trauma informed care and have a deep understanding of the complex and long-lasting impacts it can have on you.
Along with trauma, comes the emotions and behaviours that are interfering with your life. Anxiety, depression, difficult/abusive relationships, addictive behaviours, and self-harm can all be caused or made worse by a trauma history. Understanding these symptoms through an empathetic, trauma informed lens ensures we reach the actual source of the issue.
(03) 7500 5629 View (03) 7500 5629
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 Shanilka Heath - Nirvana Psychology , Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Nirvana Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Oakleigh, VIC 3166
My approach is calm, structured and insight-oriented, drawing from CBT, schema and trauma-informed approaches to create positive change.
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.
My approach is calm, structured and insight-oriented, drawing from CBT, schema and trauma-informed approaches to create positive change.
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 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 Mariane Fernando, Counsellor
Mariane Fernando
Counsellor
Serves Area
I am a very capable and committed counsellor, and passionate about supporting clients to make a difference in their life through empowerment, reflection and understanding. Each person is unique and requires an individual approach in meeting his or her specific needs. You will feel connected, safe and heard in sessions with me, working collaboratively in a positive and uplifting environment. I am deeply committed to helping you overcome immediate concerns and skilled at using various therapies and techniques in a client-centred approach to provide you with the tools to grow and work towards living life to the fullest.
I am a very capable and committed counsellor, and passionate about supporting clients to make a difference in their life through empowerment, reflection and understanding. Each person is unique and requires an individual approach in meeting his or her specific needs. You will feel connected, safe and heard in sessions with me, working collaboratively in a positive and uplifting environment. I am deeply committed to helping you overcome immediate concerns and skilled at using various therapies and techniques in a client-centred approach to provide you with the tools to grow and work towards living life to the fullest.
(08) 9126 9492 View (08) 9126 9492
Photo of Dr Christine James, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Christine James
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
My particular area of interest is trauma and much of my practise is with first responders and others with workplace trauma
My main approach is EMDR (an evidence-based trauma treatment), but I use other treatments such as ACT, CBT and DBT when needed.
My particular area of interest is trauma and much of my practise is with first responders and others with workplace trauma
My main approach is EMDR (an evidence-based trauma treatment), but I use other treatments such as ACT, CBT and DBT when needed.
(03) 8771 5095 View (03) 8771 5095
Photo of Adam Szmerling, Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
Adam Szmerling
Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
Serves Area
I help clients uncover unconscious patterns, heal from trauma, and build emotional resilience through genuine, compassionate dialogue.
My ideal clients are individual adults and couples seeking relief from anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or patterns that keep repeating. They may feel stuck, wanting more meaning, peace, and self understanding. They value depth, authenticity, and want to explore not just symptoms but the root causes of their struggles to create lasting emotional change.
I help clients uncover unconscious patterns, heal from trauma, and build emotional resilience through genuine, compassionate dialogue.
My ideal clients are individual adults and couples seeking relief from anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or patterns that keep repeating. They may feel stuck, wanting more meaning, peace, and self understanding. They value depth, authenticity, and want to explore not just symptoms but the root causes of their struggles to create lasting emotional change.
(03) 8771 5463 View (03) 8771 5463
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 Lucy McCarthy, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Lucy McCarthy
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
My particular areas of expertise are in the treatment of Complex Trauma, Childhood Sexual Abuse and Problem Gambling.
I engage with my clients in a respectful and professional manner, underpinned by warmth and openness. I endeavour to bring an authenticity that allows you to feel comfortable and confident enough to explore your concerns, then co create a plan utilising treatments such as Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Cognitive Therapy or Attachment Based Interventions.
My particular areas of expertise are in the treatment of Complex Trauma, Childhood Sexual Abuse and Problem Gambling.
I engage with my clients in a respectful and professional manner, underpinned by warmth and openness. I endeavour to bring an authenticity that allows you to feel comfortable and confident enough to explore your concerns, then co create a plan utilising treatments such as Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Cognitive Therapy or Attachment Based Interventions.
(03) 7500 5855 View (03) 7500 5855
Photo of Akriti (Aki) Shrestha, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Akriti (Aki) Shrestha
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
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.
Aki works from a client-centered perspective and draws from a range of evidence based therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness-based approaches and Solution Focused Therapy, Interpersonal Process Therapy, Trauma-based Therapy & Schema therapy.
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.
Aki works from a client-centered perspective and draws from a range of evidence based therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness-based approaches and Solution Focused Therapy, Interpersonal Process Therapy, Trauma-based Therapy & Schema therapy.
(03) 9560 8880 View (03) 9560 8880
Photo of Laura Prior, Social Worker, AASW
Laura Prior
Social Worker, AASW
Serves Area
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 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 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 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
Trauma and PTSD Therapists
When should I seek treatment for trauma?
Not everyone who undergoes trauma needs therapy to heal, but many do. If, after experiencing a traumatic event, you find yourself struggling with symptoms such as nightmares, dissociation, irritability, or emotional numbness—especially if these symptoms last more than a month and are severe enough to interfere with your daily functioning—you may benefit from seeking out therapy with a trauma-informed provider.

How long does trauma therapy take?
Different types of therapy for trauma unfold on different timelines. Prolonged exposure therapy and cognitive processing therapy, for example, each take about three months, while trauma-informed CBT may last anywhere from 8 to 25 sessions. Other approaches, especially those that are less structured or that incorporate elements from multiple modalities, may be more open-ended, though many patients report feeling better within the first few months of treatment.

What happens if trauma is left untreated?
Unaddressed trauma can have serious—even devastating—effects on relationships, career, and day-to-day functioning. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can lead people to distrust or lash out at others, making it difficult to maintain intimate relationships; it can also trigger symptoms such as flashbacks or hyperreactivity that can interfere with a person’s ability to function effectively, personally and/or professionally. Some sufferers turn to drugs to find relief. Symptoms may lessen on their own with time, but there is no guarantee that PTSD will resolve on its own.

Can PTSD come back after treatment?
It is possible for PTSD symptoms to recur months or years after successful treatment. This is because, like most mental health disorders, it is not possible to “cure” PTSD, and stressful life events may cause symptoms to recur in even the most resilient individuals. There is no shame in re-experiencing PTSD symptoms nor in returning to therapy when such relapses occur; indeed, many forms of trauma therapy explicitly encourage periodic “maintenance sessions” to reinforce coping skills and ensure that symptoms stay manageable.