Sexual Abuse Counselling in Ringwood East, VIC

Photo of Caroline Burrows - Mindful Living Counselling and Psychology, Counsellor, AMHSW
Mindful Living Counselling and Psychology
Counsellor, AMHSW
Serves Area
If you are struggling with the impact of trauma, or are interested in trying EMDR Therapy, we are here to help! We are a psychology and counselling practice located in Croydon, Victoria. We have a special focus on the treatment of PTSD and trauma, with a particular interest in EMDR Therapy. EMDR is a powerful, evidence-based method of trauma treatment that is endorsed by the World Health Organisation and Medicare Australia. Our Practice Director, Caroline Burrows, is a leading accredited EMDR trainer in Australia. We are proud to offer traditional, intensive and group EMDR Therapy.
If you are struggling with the impact of trauma, or are interested in trying EMDR Therapy, we are here to help! We are a psychology and counselling practice located in Croydon, Victoria. We have a special focus on the treatment of PTSD and trauma, with a particular interest in EMDR Therapy. EMDR is a powerful, evidence-based method of trauma treatment that is endorsed by the World Health Organisation and Medicare Australia. Our Practice Director, Caroline Burrows, is a leading accredited EMDR trainer in Australia. We are proud to offer traditional, intensive and group EMDR Therapy.
(03) 6146 3217 View (03) 6146 3217
Photo of Petra van Vliet, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Petra van Vliet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Serves Area
The foundation of my counselling is social-justice, compassion and integrity. I am an accredited mental health social worker with over 30 years' experience in clinical mental health settings, community palliative care & aged care. I offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprogramming), Acceptance Commitment Therapy and Narrative Therapy. I work from a trauma-informed framework which incorporates Attachment theory, Schema Theory and IFS.
The foundation of my counselling is social-justice, compassion and integrity. I am an accredited mental health social worker with over 30 years' experience in clinical mental health settings, community palliative care & aged care. I offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprogramming), Acceptance Commitment Therapy and Narrative Therapy. I work from a trauma-informed framework which incorporates Attachment theory, Schema Theory and IFS.
(03) 8203 5194 View (03) 8203 5194

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Joan Burchell-Quirk, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Joan Burchell-Quirk
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Eltham, VIC 3095
Joan specialises in victims of sexual assault, complex trauma, mental health, the LGBTIQA+ community & relationship dynamics.
Joan holds a Master of Counselling & Psychotherapy and works from various frameworks: including trauma informed, psychodynamic, interpersonal, client centred and also systemic. Joan uses a diverse range of therapies such as schema therapy, sand play therapy, EMDR & psychodynamic therapy.
Joan specialises in victims of sexual assault, complex trauma, mental health, the LGBTIQA+ community & relationship dynamics.
Joan holds a Master of Counselling & Psychotherapy and works from various frameworks: including trauma informed, psychodynamic, interpersonal, client centred and also systemic. Joan uses a diverse range of therapies such as schema therapy, sand play therapy, EMDR & psychodynamic therapy.
(03) 8400 0399 View (03) 8400 0399
Damien Gafforini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Doreen, VIC 3754
I have 20 years of experience, in particular supporting those whom have experienced some form of traumatic event (especially sexual abuse).
I have 20 years of counselling experience. With degree’s in Psychology, Social Work and Child Psychotherapy. I provide specialised supports for clients who have complex trauma through the use of such tools as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), Neurofeedback, QEEG and trauma therapy. I also provide Couples Counselling.
I have 20 years of experience, in particular supporting those whom have experienced some form of traumatic event (especially sexual abuse).
I have 20 years of counselling experience. With degree’s in Psychology, Social Work and Child Psychotherapy. I provide specialised supports for clients who have complex trauma through the use of such tools as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), Neurofeedback, QEEG and trauma therapy. I also provide Couples Counselling.
(03) 9068 6002 View (03) 9068 6002
Photo of Geetha Chetty, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Geetha Chetty
Counsellor, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Williams Landing, VIC 3027
I've worked in correctional services, and various community sectors namely, disadvantaged and marginalised youth, AOD, homelessness, unemployment, sexual assault and family violence.
I believe that we are all unique and experience the world differently in our own special way. Therefore, I do not use a one size fits all counselling approach but adopt different strategies and techniques to provide the most effective treatment for my clients. I use a culturally sensitive, strengths-based, and trauma-informed approach to guide my practice.
I've worked in correctional services, and various community sectors namely, disadvantaged and marginalised youth, AOD, homelessness, unemployment, sexual assault and family violence.
I believe that we are all unique and experience the world differently in our own special way. Therefore, I do not use a one size fits all counselling approach but adopt different strategies and techniques to provide the most effective treatment for my clients. I use a culturally sensitive, strengths-based, and trauma-informed approach to guide my practice.
(03) 7302 2085 View (03) 7302 2085
Photo of San Leenstra, Counsellor, MA, AThR
San Leenstra
Counsellor, MA, AThR
Serves Area
I have over 20 years experience working with individuals, adults, teens, children and families and have qualifications in Art Therapy, Family Therapy and have many years experience working in sexual assault recovery and trauma-informed practice.
I am passionate about working collaboratively and believe in balancing honesty with warmth and care, being straight forward as well as gentle, kind and non-judgemental. I work client-centred, with unconditional positive regard and allow each perspective to be heard, valued and taken seriously. I support each individual to explore their own unique way of being in this world, with all its challenges and rewards. I invite you to embrace a journey of self-discovery and growth in a safe, supportive environment where your voice matters.
I have over 20 years experience working with individuals, adults, teens, children and families and have qualifications in Art Therapy, Family Therapy and have many years experience working in sexual assault recovery and trauma-informed practice.
I am passionate about working collaboratively and believe in balancing honesty with warmth and care, being straight forward as well as gentle, kind and non-judgemental. I work client-centred, with unconditional positive regard and allow each perspective to be heard, valued and taken seriously. I support each individual to explore their own unique way of being in this world, with all its challenges and rewards. I invite you to embrace a journey of self-discovery and growth in a safe, supportive environment where your voice matters.
(03) 4422 2660 View (03) 4422 2660
Photo of Colleen Denise Cahill - Mindfulness Matters, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Mindfulness Matters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Kallista, VIC 3791
Sexual assault?
I am an individual/family/relationship therapist that can assist people working through their relationship issues in a non-judgemental manner that increases their skills in relating to others and may assist some through times of separation. I develop plans with my clients that assist them in understanding themselves and strategies that empower them.
Sexual assault?
I am an individual/family/relationship therapist that can assist people working through their relationship issues in a non-judgemental manner that increases their skills in relating to others and may assist some through times of separation. I develop plans with my clients that assist them in understanding themselves and strategies that empower them.
(03) 8592 9256 View (03) 8592 9256
Photo of Michelle Downs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Michelle Downs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Tecoma, VIC 3160
I am specialised in trauma and work with people impacted by Complex PTSD; Acute Trauma; attachment trauma; historical and recent sexual assault and family violence and relationship issues.
With over 17 years’ experience, working in both the UK and Australia. I am trained and practiced in EMDR, Resource Therapy, FLASH 2.0, TF-CBT, ACT and other evidenced trauma therapies. Specialising in adults living with childhood trauma, sexual trauma, relational trauma and one-off traumatic events. People leave my service with significant symptom reduction.
I am specialised in trauma and work with people impacted by Complex PTSD; Acute Trauma; attachment trauma; historical and recent sexual assault and family violence and relationship issues.
With over 17 years’ experience, working in both the UK and Australia. I am trained and practiced in EMDR, Resource Therapy, FLASH 2.0, TF-CBT, ACT and other evidenced trauma therapies. Specialising in adults living with childhood trauma, sexual trauma, relational trauma and one-off traumatic events. People leave my service with significant symptom reduction.
(03) 5905 7112 View (03) 5905 7112
Photo of Rebecca Reale - Wholehearted Psychology, Psychologist, MAPS
Wholehearted Psychology
Psychologist, MAPS
Healesville, VIC 3777
Consequently, I have worked extensively with victim/survivors of sexual assault and family violence.
We can focus on a specific problem area you bring to therapy, and delve to a deeper level of understanding of the issue/s so as to resolve it, or we can work in a more fluid, open-ended manner, with self-discovery in mind. While I am not resistant to diagnosis and working within a pathological lens, I like to see people outside of narrow diagnostic labels. In the first instance, my first approach is to understand a client’s suffering by learning about them as unique individuals with complex histories and adaptive coping strategies. As I engage wholeheartedly with clients, my ask is that clients attempt to engage wholeheartedly too.
Consequently, I have worked extensively with victim/survivors of sexual assault and family violence.
We can focus on a specific problem area you bring to therapy, and delve to a deeper level of understanding of the issue/s so as to resolve it, or we can work in a more fluid, open-ended manner, with self-discovery in mind. While I am not resistant to diagnosis and working within a pathological lens, I like to see people outside of narrow diagnostic labels. In the first instance, my first approach is to understand a client’s suffering by learning about them as unique individuals with complex histories and adaptive coping strategies. As I engage wholeheartedly with clients, my ask is that clients attempt to engage wholeheartedly too.
(03) 8338 1979 View (03) 8338 1979
Photo of Barbara Drossos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Barbara Drossos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Coburg, VIC 3058
I specialiase in trauma, sexual assault, pregnancy counselling, reproductive health support, as well as anxiety and depression.
Life can be hard to navigate, especially when we face challenging transitions, stressors and/or crises. Counselling can make a difference. I provide a non-judgmental, safe space to work towards change through increasing self-awareness, developing interpersonal and self-care skills, as well as processing trauma that may still be impacting your life.
I specialiase in trauma, sexual assault, pregnancy counselling, reproductive health support, as well as anxiety and depression.
Life can be hard to navigate, especially when we face challenging transitions, stressors and/or crises. Counselling can make a difference. I provide a non-judgmental, safe space to work towards change through increasing self-awareness, developing interpersonal and self-care skills, as well as processing trauma that may still be impacting your life.
(03) 9344 1556 View (03) 9344 1556
Photo of Lucy McCarthy, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Lucy McCarthy
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Bentleigh East, VIC 3165
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 Paula-Jane Buckland, Counsellor, PACFA
Paula-Jane Buckland
Counsellor, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Brunswick East, VIC 3057
Paula-Jane specializes in complex trauma, working with adults who are victim/survivors of childhood sexual assault, and sex and intimacy education for NDIS participants.
Paula-Jane is an accredited mental health counsellor and sex therapist working with individuals and intimate couples; providing care for a diverse range of issues and concerns. The greatest joy of her role is seeing people leaving her care feeling content, lighter and calm within themselves and hope for their future. Paula-Jane is committed to holding a space that is calm accepting trusting safe and welcoming, allowing you to feel at ease and move at a pace comfortable to you. Welcoming all people from different communities, lifestyles and abilities.
Paula-Jane specializes in complex trauma, working with adults who are victim/survivors of childhood sexual assault, and sex and intimacy education for NDIS participants.
Paula-Jane is an accredited mental health counsellor and sex therapist working with individuals and intimate couples; providing care for a diverse range of issues and concerns. The greatest joy of her role is seeing people leaving her care feeling content, lighter and calm within themselves and hope for their future. Paula-Jane is committed to holding a space that is calm accepting trusting safe and welcoming, allowing you to feel at ease and move at a pace comfortable to you. Welcoming all people from different communities, lifestyles and abilities.
(03) 8338 4767 View (03) 8338 4767
Photo of Peta de Burgh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Peta de Burgh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
I have experience working with adults who have suffered from childhood sexual abuse, physical abuse and neglect, as well as those who have been affected by a recent traumatic event.
I use a range of specialist interventions when working with Trauma, such as Somatic Therapy, TF-CBT ,EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing) psycho-education, and stabilisation techniques. I am particularly interested in polyvagal theory, brain plasticity, body psychotherapy, and incorporate this into my work with you.
I have experience working with adults who have suffered from childhood sexual abuse, physical abuse and neglect, as well as those who have been affected by a recent traumatic event.
I use a range of specialist interventions when working with Trauma, such as Somatic Therapy, TF-CBT ,EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing) psycho-education, and stabilisation techniques. I am particularly interested in polyvagal theory, brain plasticity, body psychotherapy, and incorporate this into my work with you.
(03) 7003 2905 View (03) 7003 2905
Photo of Penelope Beth McDonald - Penny McDonald Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Penny McDonald Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Carlton North, VIC 3054
I am a registered psychologist with 20 years' experience providing therapy to individuals who have experienced a range of issues including sexual assault, family violence, grief and loss, other significant traumas, depression and anxiety, and relational issues.
I have a keen interest in Internal Family Systems (IFS) and working with the different parts of self that helped us survive through traumatic experiences. This combined with somatic/body-based work and drawing from other modalities such as ACT and CBT to support each individual's recovery. Therapy is tailored to the individual and not 'one size fits all'
I am a registered psychologist with 20 years' experience providing therapy to individuals who have experienced a range of issues including sexual assault, family violence, grief and loss, other significant traumas, depression and anxiety, and relational issues.
I have a keen interest in Internal Family Systems (IFS) and working with the different parts of self that helped us survive through traumatic experiences. This combined with somatic/body-based work and drawing from other modalities such as ACT and CBT to support each individual's recovery. Therapy is tailored to the individual and not 'one size fits all'
(03) 7003 2022 View (03) 7003 2022
Photo of Jane Lumley - Jane Lumley - People Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Jane Lumley - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Melbourne, VIC 3000
Jane has experience in: Child Community Health settings Sexual Assault Counselling Psychiatric Inpatient care Counselling for general psychological problems Jane can provide psychologist reports.
Jane has experience counselling clients and can help you with: Emotional Dysregulation Counselling for Trauma Anxiety Depression Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Divorce Domestic Abuse Domestic Violence Emotional Disturbance Parenting Peer Relationships Self-Esteem Self-Harming Sexual Abuse Sexual Assault Sleep or Insomnia Stress Trauma and PTSD (Post
Jane has experience in: Child Community Health settings Sexual Assault Counselling Psychiatric Inpatient care Counselling for general psychological problems Jane can provide psychologist reports.
Jane has experience counselling clients and can help you with: Emotional Dysregulation Counselling for Trauma Anxiety Depression Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Divorce Domestic Abuse Domestic Violence Emotional Disturbance Parenting Peer Relationships Self-Esteem Self-Harming Sexual Abuse Sexual Assault Sleep or Insomnia Stress Trauma and PTSD (Post
(03) 7003 2782 View (03) 7003 2782
Photo of Jaz Forrester - Core Trauma Therapy, Counsellor, PACFA
Core Trauma Therapy
Counsellor, PACFA
Fitzroy North, VIC 3068
I work with people navigating complex trauma, including sexual assault, domestic violence, PTSD, systemic harm, identity exploration, grief, family estrangement, substance use, and burnout.
In a world that’s becoming increasingly automated, I offer something deeply human - a space for real connection, meaning-making, and healing. I am here to support you as you reconnect with yourself, find your own voice, and move forward on your terms. You don’t need to have it all figured out, just need a safe space to land.
I work with people navigating complex trauma, including sexual assault, domestic violence, PTSD, systemic harm, identity exploration, grief, family estrangement, substance use, and burnout.
In a world that’s becoming increasingly automated, I offer something deeply human - a space for real connection, meaning-making, and healing. I am here to support you as you reconnect with yourself, find your own voice, and move forward on your terms. You don’t need to have it all figured out, just need a safe space to land.
(03) 7003 2361 View (03) 7003 2361
Photo of Ruairi Gallagher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Ruairi Gallagher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
2 Endorsed
Thornbury, VIC 3071
I held a counsellor role at a rights-based sex worker organisation and I continue trauma-specific counselling at a sexual assault centre.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in the community sector. Having worked in both urban and regional locations in Australia, and in community-based roles in the UK and Canada, I pride myself on being able to connect with people from all walks of life. I've worked with people of all genders, sexualities, cultures and abilities. Whilst working on Vancouver Island, I ran addictions support groups made up of an assortment of individuals. Homeless folks would be facing similar issues to investment banker-types. This led to me becoming more interested in the universality of trauma and PTSD.
I held a counsellor role at a rights-based sex worker organisation and I continue trauma-specific counselling at a sexual assault centre.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in the community sector. Having worked in both urban and regional locations in Australia, and in community-based roles in the UK and Canada, I pride myself on being able to connect with people from all walks of life. I've worked with people of all genders, sexualities, cultures and abilities. Whilst working on Vancouver Island, I ran addictions support groups made up of an assortment of individuals. Homeless folks would be facing similar issues to investment banker-types. This led to me becoming more interested in the universality of trauma and PTSD.
(03) 8338 4331 View (03) 8338 4331
Photo of Kat O'Mara, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Kat O'Mara
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
McKinnon, VIC 3204
I also work with women who have experienced sexual abuse, assault, and rape.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, struggling with self-doubt, or trying to recover from the impact of an unhealthy relationship, trauma, or abuse. Perhaps anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem are making it hard to move forward. You might feel stuck, unsure of how to break free from past experiences or navigate current challenges. Your goal is to heal, regain confidence, and create a life that feels safe and fulfilling. You want to feel heard, supported, and empowered to take control of your own story.
I also work with women who have experienced sexual abuse, assault, and rape.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, struggling with self-doubt, or trying to recover from the impact of an unhealthy relationship, trauma, or abuse. Perhaps anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem are making it hard to move forward. You might feel stuck, unsure of how to break free from past experiences or navigate current challenges. Your goal is to heal, regain confidence, and create a life that feels safe and fulfilling. You want to feel heard, supported, and empowered to take control of your own story.
(03) 7500 5605 View (03) 7500 5605
Photo of Eleni Kidis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AASW
Eleni Kidis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AASW
Thornbury, VIC 3071
My experience and strengths include supporting people heal from trauma, including childhood abuse and neglect, fractured family bonds as well as adult sexual assault.
I am an Emotional Focused Couple's and Individual therapist (EFT). EFT is a therapeutic model based on attachment theory that strengthens emotional bonds to create emotional security within ourself, others and the world. I am a Family Constellation Facilitator and also use Radical Exposure Tapping (Laurie McKinnon) for resolving traumatic experiences.
My experience and strengths include supporting people heal from trauma, including childhood abuse and neglect, fractured family bonds as well as adult sexual assault.
I am an Emotional Focused Couple's and Individual therapist (EFT). EFT is a therapeutic model based on attachment theory that strengthens emotional bonds to create emotional security within ourself, others and the world. I am a Family Constellation Facilitator and also use Radical Exposure Tapping (Laurie McKinnon) for resolving traumatic experiences.
(03) 8338 4349 View (03) 8338 4349
Photo of Christina David, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Christina David
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
I provide therapy to clients who experience complex trauma, relationship issues, sexual abuse, domestic violence, divorce, autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, stress, sleep issues, addiction and other mental health problems.
As a bilingual counsellor who comes from a mixed race family I am competent in understanding and effectively formulating treatment plans for a diverse range of people. My work experience with clients from across the human lifespan helps me identify and treat their presenting issues in a developmentally appropriate manner with cultural sensitivity.
I provide therapy to clients who experience complex trauma, relationship issues, sexual abuse, domestic violence, divorce, autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, stress, sleep issues, addiction and other mental health problems.
As a bilingual counsellor who comes from a mixed race family I am competent in understanding and effectively formulating treatment plans for a diverse range of people. My work experience with clients from across the human lifespan helps me identify and treat their presenting issues in a developmentally appropriate manner with cultural sensitivity.
(03) 8771 5535 View (03) 8771 5535
Sexual Abuse Counsellors

How do therapists treat sexual abuse?

A good therapist will be nonjudgmental and possibly demonstrate active listening, repeating back what the client says to show that they have understood. These skills allow people to feel comfortable discussing their traumatic experiences openly. Some important treatment goals are to restore a sense of safety and to rebuild confidence. In addition to working one-on-one with the patient, a therapist might bring in supportive family members to assist the client.

Do you have to talk extensively about sexual abuse in therapy?

Survivors frequently find it difficult to describe what happened to them out loud. They can even still be in a state of denial if the sexual abuse occurred recently. It is important for survivors to acknowledge that what happened isn’t their fault and to challenge and reappraise any unhealthy feelings or thoughts as they arise. Art therapy and play therapy are useful non-verbal means of communication for some survivors.

How long does treatment for sexual abuse take?

Recovery from sexual abuse can be a long and difficult process. Some survivors are able to move on naturally on their own, given time, while others require the guidance of a trained therapist. Therapy needs vary and can range from a few sessions to months or even years. Healing from sexual abuse takes time, and everyone’s journey will look a little different.

Can trauma symptoms caused by sexual abuse come back after treatment?

As occurs in many cases of trauma, survivors of sexual abuse may experience PTSD-like symptoms long after the abuse has ceased or after an initial round of treatment has occurred. In such a case, there is evidence that prolonged exposure therapy is a useful treatment for survivors, and may be more efficacious than supportive counseling alone. While triggers may continue to cause distress, the idea is that, with time and repeated exposure, their power will fade, allowing survivors to move on with their lives.