Domestic Abuse Psychologists and Therapists in Richmond, VIC

Photo of Taash Balakas, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Taash Balakas
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Let’s be honest. Walking into therapy can feel intimidating. The old-school image of psychology is still very “serious face, intimidating suit, big words you didn’t ask for.” That’s not what happens here. I’m a psychologist who genuinely believes therapy shouldn’t feel like you’re being analysed under fluorescent lighting. It should feel collaborative, clear & human. You deserve support that makes sense in real life. No "hacks". My approach is simple. I get to know you properly. We figure out what’s getting in your way. And we build tools that actually work in your day-to-day life. No unnecessary jargon.
Let’s be honest. Walking into therapy can feel intimidating. The old-school image of psychology is still very “serious face, intimidating suit, big words you didn’t ask for.” That’s not what happens here. I’m a psychologist who genuinely believes therapy shouldn’t feel like you’re being analysed under fluorescent lighting. It should feel collaborative, clear & human. You deserve support that makes sense in real life. No "hacks". My approach is simple. I get to know you properly. We figure out what’s getting in your way. And we build tools that actually work in your day-to-day life. No unnecessary jargon.
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Photo of Grace Penman, Counsellor, ACA-L3
Grace Penman
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Online Only
Grace is a counsellor and psychotherapist who supports mixed-culture adults, immigrants, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community as they navigate identity, belonging, and life transitions in a cross-cultural world. You might be carrying the weight of family expectations while longing to live in a way that feels true to you, or raising young families while managing relationships shaped by different cultural upbringings. Over time, this tension can show up as anxiety, guilt, confusion, or a sense of never being “enough”, along with feelings of loneliness and uncertainty about where you truly belong as you work to find your own path.
Grace is a counsellor and psychotherapist who supports mixed-culture adults, immigrants, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community as they navigate identity, belonging, and life transitions in a cross-cultural world. You might be carrying the weight of family expectations while longing to live in a way that feels true to you, or raising young families while managing relationships shaped by different cultural upbringings. Over time, this tension can show up as anxiety, guilt, confusion, or a sense of never being “enough”, along with feelings of loneliness and uncertainty about where you truly belong as you work to find your own path.
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Photo of Charlene Ma - Charlene's Counselling Room, Counsellor, MPsych, PACFA
Charlene's Counselling Room
Counsellor, MPsych, PACFA
Richmond, VIC 3121
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, sadness, or self-doubt, even when you're trying your best to keep things together? Perhaps you feel a deep sense that something is out of balance, and you're longing for inner peace and more fulfilling relationships. I deeply understand that taking the step to seek support requires courage, and I’m here to offer a gentle, supportive space where you feel genuinely heard and valued.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, sadness, or self-doubt, even when you're trying your best to keep things together? Perhaps you feel a deep sense that something is out of balance, and you're longing for inner peace and more fulfilling relationships. I deeply understand that taking the step to seek support requires courage, and I’m here to offer a gentle, supportive space where you feel genuinely heard and valued.
0451 947 206 View 0451 947 206
Photo of Mia Gentle, Psychologist, PsychD
Mia Gentle
Psychologist, PsychD
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VIC 3121
With the foundation of a safe and non-judgmental space, Mia has helped clients presenting with adjustment and life transitions, anxiety, depression, phobias, low self-worth, loss, trauma/ abuse, workplace issues, anger management and more.
As all people are different, Mia’s collaborative approach is tailored to the individual, informed by the client’s own unique situation, preferences and needs. She draws on a number of modalities for a client-centred experience.
With the foundation of a safe and non-judgmental space, Mia has helped clients presenting with adjustment and life transitions, anxiety, depression, phobias, low self-worth, loss, trauma/ abuse, workplace issues, anger management and more.
As all people are different, Mia’s collaborative approach is tailored to the individual, informed by the client’s own unique situation, preferences and needs. She draws on a number of modalities for a client-centred experience.
(03) 7003 2475 View (03) 7003 2475
Photo of Connie Sandra Kellett, Social Worker, PhD, AMHSW
Connie Sandra Kellett
Social Worker, PhD, AMHSW
Richmond, VIC 3121
I work with people who've experienced trauma (family violence, violence, disaster and other tough times), mental health issues, bereavement, life adjustment, employment stress and in many other areas.
Hi, I’m Connie Kellett—an individual, couples, and family counsellor. At Adaptation Consulting we create a space where your identity, story, and experiences are valued. There’s no one ‘right way’ to do therapy—only what works for you. We work with a range of modalities including Narrative Therapy and CBT and collaborate with our clients to find the best pathway for them.
I work with people who've experienced trauma (family violence, violence, disaster and other tough times), mental health issues, bereavement, life adjustment, employment stress and in many other areas.
Hi, I’m Connie Kellett—an individual, couples, and family counsellor. At Adaptation Consulting we create a space where your identity, story, and experiences are valued. There’s no one ‘right way’ to do therapy—only what works for you. We work with a range of modalities including Narrative Therapy and CBT and collaborate with our clients to find the best pathway for them.
0409 334 842 View 0409 334 842
Photo of Aish Nair, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Aish Nair
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Richmond, VIC 3121
Aish (She/her) has experience working with people across the lifespan and from diverse backgrounds, presenting with issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, trauma and personality disorders. She has extensive experience working with young people, particularly those with complex needs. She is particularly interested in trauma-based work. She uses CBT, DBT, ACT and Mindfulness-based practices. She builds honest, open and empathetic relationships with her clients. She has a commitment to collaborating with clients in a non-judgmental way to help them build a life worth living.
Aish (She/her) has experience working with people across the lifespan and from diverse backgrounds, presenting with issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, trauma and personality disorders. She has extensive experience working with young people, particularly those with complex needs. She is particularly interested in trauma-based work. She uses CBT, DBT, ACT and Mindfulness-based practices. She builds honest, open and empathetic relationships with her clients. She has a commitment to collaborating with clients in a non-judgmental way to help them build a life worth living.
(03) 7003 2466 View (03) 7003 2466
Photo of Cristian Mcheileh - Hourglass Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Hourglass Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VIC 3121
Appointments Available - book online at hourglasspsychology.com.au/appointments. I work with young people and adults treating anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, adjustment difficulties, relationship issues, self-harming, addictions, stress, amongst other problems. I also have an interest in working with people across diverse sexuality, sex, and gender spectrums. I assist you to find practical solutions to your problems that fit within your lifestyle, values and personal investment, drawing on your strengths to create meaningful long-term change. I also work with your evolving goals, and offer guidance and support.
Appointments Available - book online at hourglasspsychology.com.au/appointments. I work with young people and adults treating anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, adjustment difficulties, relationship issues, self-harming, addictions, stress, amongst other problems. I also have an interest in working with people across diverse sexuality, sex, and gender spectrums. I assist you to find practical solutions to your problems that fit within your lifestyle, values and personal investment, drawing on your strengths to create meaningful long-term change. I also work with your evolving goals, and offer guidance and support.
(03) 7003 2053 View (03) 7003 2053
Photo of Marie-Claire McCubbery, Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Marie-Claire McCubbery
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Richmond, VIC 3121
Marie-Claire McCubbery has extensive experience providing evidence-based therapeutic interventions to clients across the lifespan, individuals 14 years and over, and couples. Her special interest areas include individuals with trauma, coping/adjustment issues, life transition issues, relationship difficulties, parenting issues and couples counselling (Emotional Focus Therapy). Using a person-centred approach, Marie-Claire works collaboratively with the individual and/or couple's needs to increase their self-awareness and facilitate change in behaviour, entrenched thinking patterns and more deeply ingrained emotional difficulties.
Marie-Claire McCubbery has extensive experience providing evidence-based therapeutic interventions to clients across the lifespan, individuals 14 years and over, and couples. Her special interest areas include individuals with trauma, coping/adjustment issues, life transition issues, relationship difficulties, parenting issues and couples counselling (Emotional Focus Therapy). Using a person-centred approach, Marie-Claire works collaboratively with the individual and/or couple's needs to increase their self-awareness and facilitate change in behaviour, entrenched thinking patterns and more deeply ingrained emotional difficulties.
(03) 7003 2060 View (03) 7003 2060
Photo of Estefania Tello Arce, MPsych
Estefania Tello Arce
Verified Verified
Online Only
If you are already checking this, it means that a part of you is ready to be transformed, I´m here to assist you in that process. My most important objective is to provide you with a safe and professional space to go to the roots of your symptoms, not only the surface. In that way, changes being made are most likely to remain.
If you are already checking this, it means that a part of you is ready to be transformed, I´m here to assist you in that process. My most important objective is to provide you with a safe and professional space to go to the roots of your symptoms, not only the surface. In that way, changes being made are most likely to remain.
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Photo of Marina Salambasis, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Marina Salambasis
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
If you suffer from trauma, ADHD, ASD/Autism, depression, anxiety, substance use, sleep issues, relationship issues, eating disorders, low self-esteem, or bereavement, please email me to arrange a free 10-minute consultation. I foster a non-judgmental and safe therapeutic environment where you will feel comfortable and supported discussing difficult topics. I will endeavor to assist you in accessing your own agency and internal resources, leading to greater self-awareness, emotional regulation, and a sense of empowerment.
If you suffer from trauma, ADHD, ASD/Autism, depression, anxiety, substance use, sleep issues, relationship issues, eating disorders, low self-esteem, or bereavement, please email me to arrange a free 10-minute consultation. I foster a non-judgmental and safe therapeutic environment where you will feel comfortable and supported discussing difficult topics. I will endeavor to assist you in accessing your own agency and internal resources, leading to greater self-awareness, emotional regulation, and a sense of empowerment.
(03) 7003 2085 View (03) 7003 2085
Photo of Rachel Purchase, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Rachel Purchase
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I have a strong interest in supporting women and girls to foster a positive self-image through self-compassion and self-awareness. My work centres on recognising and processing trauma, as well treating depression, anxiety, body-image dissatisfaction, grief, and relationship difficulties. I also work with women through the perinatal and postnatal period. In addition to therapeutic work, I conduct clinical assessments for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and seek to facilitate empowered and affirming relationships with neurodiversity.
I have a strong interest in supporting women and girls to foster a positive self-image through self-compassion and self-awareness. My work centres on recognising and processing trauma, as well treating depression, anxiety, body-image dissatisfaction, grief, and relationship difficulties. I also work with women through the perinatal and postnatal period. In addition to therapeutic work, I conduct clinical assessments for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and seek to facilitate empowered and affirming relationships with neurodiversity.
(03) 7003 2174 View (03) 7003 2174
Photo of May Lai, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
May Lai
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Online Only
We have all been in situations that we wish were different. We want someone who listens respectfully, to support and encourage us to get through this situation stronger and to be proud of who we are. It can be reassuring to work with a professional therapist to help clarify our thoughts, who will provide tools to manage concerns and assist in putting a life plan in to action.
We have all been in situations that we wish were different. We want someone who listens respectfully, to support and encourage us to get through this situation stronger and to be proud of who we are. It can be reassuring to work with a professional therapist to help clarify our thoughts, who will provide tools to manage concerns and assist in putting a life plan in to action.
(02) 5603 2903 View (02) 5603 2903
Photo of Christine Savides, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Christine Savides
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
Feeling you need support outside of your family and friends? Not sure about changing or enhancing some aspect of your life? I work with adults, couples and older teenagers looking for solutions. Knowing WHY a pattern keeps showing up or being aware of a past trauma or event can be helpful, AND sometimes "why" just isn't enough to create the change. Combining Gestalt psychotherapy with SE (Somatic Experiencing), we can begin to shift the patterns that are stored in our bodies and our mind memory. Contact me right now and let’s get working!
Feeling you need support outside of your family and friends? Not sure about changing or enhancing some aspect of your life? I work with adults, couples and older teenagers looking for solutions. Knowing WHY a pattern keeps showing up or being aware of a past trauma or event can be helpful, AND sometimes "why" just isn't enough to create the change. Combining Gestalt psychotherapy with SE (Somatic Experiencing), we can begin to shift the patterns that are stored in our bodies and our mind memory. Contact me right now and let’s get working!
0438 446 634 View 0438 446 634
George Choipel
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Serves Area
I work with adults and young people experiencing stress and anxiety, depression, grief and loss, emotional dysregulation, trauma, or difficulties with behaviour change and substance use. Many clients feel overwhelmed, stuck, or affected by past experiences that continue to shape their thoughts, emotions, and relationships. They want relief, clarity, and practical ways to cope, while also wanting to feel understood and respected. I support people seeking stability, insight, and sustainable change at a pace that feels safe.
I work with adults and young people experiencing stress and anxiety, depression, grief and loss, emotional dysregulation, trauma, or difficulties with behaviour change and substance use. Many clients feel overwhelmed, stuck, or affected by past experiences that continue to shape their thoughts, emotions, and relationships. They want relief, clarity, and practical ways to cope, while also wanting to feel understood and respected. I support people seeking stability, insight, and sustainable change at a pace that feels safe.
(02) 3815 6912 View (02) 3815 6912
Photo of Sarah Langlet, Psychologist, MA, MACPA
Sarah Langlet
Psychologist, MA, MACPA
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I am an experienced Clinical Psychologist who works with adults experiencing a range of difficulties including anxiety, low mood, trauma, stress, emotional instability and conflict in relationships; I have a special interest in working with women in the perinatal period who are struggling with anxiety, depression or trauma.
I am an experienced Clinical Psychologist who works with adults experiencing a range of difficulties including anxiety, low mood, trauma, stress, emotional instability and conflict in relationships; I have a special interest in working with women in the perinatal period who are struggling with anxiety, depression or trauma.
(03) 7003 2483 View (03) 7003 2483
Photo of Ronnie Adamowicz, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Ronnie Adamowicz
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
Are you feeling stuck, like something important is missing from your life, but you can't quite put your finger on it? Do you find it challenging to have your emotional needs met in relationships? Are you trapped in repetitive patterns, struggling to define healthy boundaries? There is a reason behind these struggles, and together, we will uncover what is holding you back, providing you with the clarity and confidence needed to turn things around. I specialize in somatic therapy, an approach that dives deep into the core of unresolved trauma within the body, facilitating rapid healing.
Are you feeling stuck, like something important is missing from your life, but you can't quite put your finger on it? Do you find it challenging to have your emotional needs met in relationships? Are you trapped in repetitive patterns, struggling to define healthy boundaries? There is a reason behind these struggles, and together, we will uncover what is holding you back, providing you with the clarity and confidence needed to turn things around. I specialize in somatic therapy, an approach that dives deep into the core of unresolved trauma within the body, facilitating rapid healing.
(03) 7037 6993 View (03) 7037 6993
Photo of Rose Martinovic - Rose Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Rose Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I am passionate about working with adults who struggle with trauma, autism, OCD, borderline personality disorder, eating disorders, & LGBTQIA+ individuals. All clients are unique & I tailor the therapeutic plan by drawing from a range of evidence-based approaches to suit each client. I am mindful that engaging in therapy is a daunting process & I admire the strength and resilience it takes for clients to engage in this process.
I am passionate about working with adults who struggle with trauma, autism, OCD, borderline personality disorder, eating disorders, & LGBTQIA+ individuals. All clients are unique & I tailor the therapeutic plan by drawing from a range of evidence-based approaches to suit each client. I am mindful that engaging in therapy is a daunting process & I admire the strength and resilience it takes for clients to engage in this process.
(07) 2100 4001 View (07) 2100 4001
Photo of Sweeney O'Heare-Young, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Sweeney O'Heare-Young
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
A wish to get better, and a willingness to look inside oneself. These are the only essentials for success in therapy. I enjoy helping people with OCD and rumination to regain a sense of agency over their mind, people with depression to understand what is happening inside themselves that is causing their suffering and free themselves from it, people with PTSD to feel safe again and gain self-compassion and heal their nervous system, people with difficulty in relationships to understand what is happening and operate more smoothly, and helping people with many other difficulties to heal and move forward.
A wish to get better, and a willingness to look inside oneself. These are the only essentials for success in therapy. I enjoy helping people with OCD and rumination to regain a sense of agency over their mind, people with depression to understand what is happening inside themselves that is causing their suffering and free themselves from it, people with PTSD to feel safe again and gain self-compassion and heal their nervous system, people with difficulty in relationships to understand what is happening and operate more smoothly, and helping people with many other difficulties to heal and move forward.
(03) 7003 2205 View (03) 7003 2205
Photo of Chris Franck, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Chris Franck
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate in helping people of all genders and standing in life, with a focus on men in need of direction in life, recover from traumatic events and adjustment to life challenges and changes, struggling with high prevalence disorders and AOD / changes related to addictions. Being a Veteran myself, I strongly align practices for people in active or former services.
I am passionate in helping people of all genders and standing in life, with a focus on men in need of direction in life, recover from traumatic events and adjustment to life challenges and changes, struggling with high prevalence disorders and AOD / changes related to addictions. Being a Veteran myself, I strongly align practices for people in active or former services.
(07) 5451 4034 View (07) 5451 4034
Photo of Danu Sivanathan, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Danu Sivanathan
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Danu is a Melbourne-based psychologist who believes therapy is a paradox of acceptance and challenge. It is a puzzle to be solved with patients who have some psychic or social injury and are looking for someone to help them accept both who they are, and who they can be. Danu has a PhD (Clinical Psychology) and was a lecturer and a clinician in justice and hospital settings. Danu is also expert in psychological assessments.
Danu is a Melbourne-based psychologist who believes therapy is a paradox of acceptance and challenge. It is a puzzle to be solved with patients who have some psychic or social injury and are looking for someone to help them accept both who they are, and who they can be. Danu has a PhD (Clinical Psychology) and was a lecturer and a clinician in justice and hospital settings. Danu is also expert in psychological assessments.
0490 833 820 View 0490 833 820

See more therapy options for Richmond

Domestic Abuse Therapists
What are the most effective ways to recover from domestic abuse?
Leaving an abusive relationship requires tremendous courage, so survivors in treatment should recognise that they have already completed the most important step. Still, the trauma of physical or emotional abuse can be difficult to process and overcome. Therapy can help survivors process trauma, grief, and difficult emotions, treat relevant mental health symptoms, and create a new framework for boundaries and relationships in the future. For some, support groups can also be an invaluable outlet for healing.

When should an individual seek help for domestic abuse?
Victims of intimate partner violence should seek help immediately. It can take substantial time, planning, energy, and courage to leave an abusive relationship, but starting the process—by seeking therapy, calling the domestic violence hotline, or simply confiding in a loved one—will help them get there. Those who have left abusive relationships but haven’t sought treatment can also greatly benefit from therapy to process and heal from the experience.

What are the consequences of staying in an abusive relationship?
Remaining in an abusive relationship has serious repercussions. In addition to the ongoing threat of physical danger and emotional abuse, research shows that intimate partner violence is associated with a range of mental health disorders including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and substance abuse. Therefore it’s important for individuals in an abusive relationship to seek help as soon as possible.

How can you get domestic abuse treatment for someone else?
It can be very complicated to identify and leave an abusive relationship; barriers include the threat of violence, financial instability, and family pressures. Those concerned about a loved one in an abusive relationship should talk to them about the situation, provide them with resources such as the domestic violence hotline, and introduce the idea of seeing a therapist due to their concern for the person’s safety and well-being.