Sexual Abuse Psychologists and Therapists in Saint Albans, VIC
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.
Pam is a qualified counsellor with wealth of experience in the areas of addictions,trauma,mental health ,domestic family violence, sexual assault and supervision.
Pam has worked in a variety of roles in the public and private sector such as specialist trauma counsellor AOD counsellor,Mental health practitioner,team lead ,group facilitator and supervisor,in addition to her independent practice as a manager and senior counsellor.
Pam is a qualified counsellor with wealth of experience in the areas of addictions,trauma,mental health ,domestic family violence, sexual assault and supervision.
Pam has worked in a variety of roles in the public and private sector such as specialist trauma counsellor AOD counsellor,Mental health practitioner,team lead ,group facilitator and supervisor,in addition to her independent practice as a manager and senior counsellor.
She has worked at the Centre Against Sexual Assault, Women’s Social Support Services (RWH), Pregnancy Advisory Services, the Foundation for Torture and Trauma and as a fertility counsellor with individuals and couples.
Christina has 20 years experience as a mental health social worker and psychotherapist. She works with people whose lives have been affected by childhood & adult trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family violence, and the impact of identity, family, ethnic and cultural issues on mental health. She has a special interest in supporting clients with chronic and physical health and disability issues. Christina hopes that through therapy, people can develop a greater awareness of their emotions, thoughts, strengths and goals and an overall improvement in their wellbeing and relationships with others.
She has worked at the Centre Against Sexual Assault, Women’s Social Support Services (RWH), Pregnancy Advisory Services, the Foundation for Torture and Trauma and as a fertility counsellor with individuals and couples.
Christina has 20 years experience as a mental health social worker and psychotherapist. She works with people whose lives have been affected by childhood & adult trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family violence, and the impact of identity, family, ethnic and cultural issues on mental health. She has a special interest in supporting clients with chronic and physical health and disability issues. Christina hopes that through therapy, people can develop a greater awareness of their emotions, thoughts, strengths and goals and an overall improvement in their wellbeing and relationships with others.
Hi I'm Cass! I am passionate about working with people to help create a happier and more fulfilled life. I believe that everyone has the potential create positive change despite adversity; we just need the tools to be able do so.
Hi I'm Cass! I am passionate about working with people to help create a happier and more fulfilled life. I believe that everyone has the potential create positive change despite adversity; we just need the tools to be able do so.
Hello! Thank you for considering me as your therapist. Inspired by the Filipino gesture of "akbay," my approach is one of warmth, trust, and understanding, I am here to walk alongside you on your journey toward healing and growth. I recognise and respect your unique experiences, so that you can be in therapy as you are. I practice with safety and inclusivity for all individuals.
I primarily draw on attachment-based, trauma-informed, and cognitive-behavioural perspectives and use a holistic approach to therapy that incorporates thoughts, feelings, body/sensations, and behaviours towards positive outcomes.
Hello! Thank you for considering me as your therapist. Inspired by the Filipino gesture of "akbay," my approach is one of warmth, trust, and understanding, I am here to walk alongside you on your journey toward healing and growth. I recognise and respect your unique experiences, so that you can be in therapy as you are. I practice with safety and inclusivity for all individuals.
I primarily draw on attachment-based, trauma-informed, and cognitive-behavioural perspectives and use a holistic approach to therapy that incorporates thoughts, feelings, body/sensations, and behaviours towards positive outcomes.
More Therapists Nearby
I also work with women who have experienced sexual abuse, assault, and rape.
You’ve always been the one who holds it all together: for your children, your partner, your family.
Now you’re quietly falling apart. Perhaps you’re coping with the pain of estrangement, the aftermath of a controlling or emotionally abusive relationship, or the exhaustion of trying to keep everyone else afloat while ignoring your own needs. On the outside, you seem capable; inside, you feel anxious, alone, or disconnected. The old strategies like perfectionism, people-pleasing and staying silent aren’t working anymore.
I also work with women who have experienced sexual abuse, assault, and rape.
You’ve always been the one who holds it all together: for your children, your partner, your family.
Now you’re quietly falling apart. Perhaps you’re coping with the pain of estrangement, the aftermath of a controlling or emotionally abusive relationship, or the exhaustion of trying to keep everyone else afloat while ignoring your own needs. On the outside, you seem capable; inside, you feel anxious, alone, or disconnected. The old strategies like perfectionism, people-pleasing and staying silent aren’t working anymore.
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.
Penny McDonald Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Carlton North, VIC 3054
Waitlist for new clients
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 am trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS) Level Two and work 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 am trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS) Level Two and work 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 work with teens and adults navigating the impacts of both single-incident and ongoing relational trauma. My approach is warm, collaborative, and trauma-informed, drawing on EMDR, somatic, and creative therapies to support processing and nervous system regulation. I focus on fostering holistic connection - with yourself, others, and your environment.
I’m curious about the coping strategies you’ve developed, understanding them as adaptive and meaningful, while exploring new ways of being and relating. I hold your story within its broader context, recognising the influence of family, community, and society in shaping your experience.
I work with teens and adults navigating the impacts of both single-incident and ongoing relational trauma. My approach is warm, collaborative, and trauma-informed, drawing on EMDR, somatic, and creative therapies to support processing and nervous system regulation. I focus on fostering holistic connection - with yourself, others, and your environment.
I’m curious about the coping strategies you’ve developed, understanding them as adaptive and meaningful, while exploring new ways of being and relating. I hold your story within its broader context, recognising the influence of family, community, and society in shaping your experience.
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.
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.
Hiya, I'm Amy. I'm a Gestalt Psychotherapist who aims to create a space where you can show up, be real and talk about the hard stuff in life. My aim is not to fix but rather to be someone who you can cofide in and who genuinely cares about you! I work with adults and young people on things like trauma and its ongoing impacts, life transitions, stress and burnout, sexuality and gender identity, grief and loss... All the hard, human stuff.
Hiya, I'm Amy. I'm a Gestalt Psychotherapist who aims to create a space where you can show up, be real and talk about the hard stuff in life. My aim is not to fix but rather to be someone who you can cofide in and who genuinely cares about you! I work with adults and young people on things like trauma and its ongoing impacts, life transitions, stress and burnout, sexuality and gender identity, grief and loss... All the hard, human stuff.
Hannah is a specialist trauma counsellor with deep experience supporting adult survivors of childhood trauma, complex PTSD, addiction, and victims of crime — including those engaging with the National Redress Scheme. With an extensive background in counselling, she brings warmth, clarity, and grounded empathy to her work.
Hannah has worked across community mental health, addiction recovery, and trauma support services. Her practice is informed by EFT, somatic counselling, motivational interviewing, and the Blue Knot Foundation’s Clinical Practice Guidelines for Complex Trauma.
Hannah is a specialist trauma counsellor with deep experience supporting adult survivors of childhood trauma, complex PTSD, addiction, and victims of crime — including those engaging with the National Redress Scheme. With an extensive background in counselling, she brings warmth, clarity, and grounded empathy to her work.
Hannah has worked across community mental health, addiction recovery, and trauma support services. Her practice is informed by EFT, somatic counselling, motivational interviewing, and the Blue Knot Foundation’s Clinical Practice Guidelines for Complex Trauma.
I typically work with people who have experienced chronic difficulties with their mental health, and/or those who have experienced trauma. My patients have typically worked with others and seek a different approach. A longterm therapeutic relationship provides a space where individuals feel safe to explore their current issues and the origins of these difficulties.
I typically work with people who have experienced chronic difficulties with their mental health, and/or those who have experienced trauma. My patients have typically worked with others and seek a different approach. A longterm therapeutic relationship provides a space where individuals feel safe to explore their current issues and the origins of these difficulties.
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.
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.
She is experienced in supporting individuals who have experienced developmental and complex trauma, family violence, and sexual assault.
Meg bring's warmth, curiosity, authenticity, and compassion to sessions. She aims to help you create genuine change by deepen your relationship with yourself, others, and the world around you; focusing on building self-awareness, communication and emotion regulation skills, and new ways of relating that allow you to live with greater ease and authenticity.
She is experienced in supporting individuals who have experienced developmental and complex trauma, family violence, and sexual assault.
Meg bring's warmth, curiosity, authenticity, and compassion to sessions. She aims to help you create genuine change by deepen your relationship with yourself, others, and the world around you; focusing on building self-awareness, communication and emotion regulation skills, and new ways of relating that allow you to live with greater ease and authenticity.
I support people who have experienced sexual assault and violence, as well as those who struggle with their mental health, childhood trauma, attachment, relationships, parenting, heartbreak and shame.
Life can be hard to navigate, especially when we face transitions, stressors and/or crises. Counselling can make a difference. I provide non-judgmental, warm and thoughtful support 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 support people who have experienced sexual assault and violence, as well as those who struggle with their mental health, childhood trauma, attachment, relationships, parenting, heartbreak and shame.
Life can be hard to navigate, especially when we face transitions, stressors and/or crises. Counselling can make a difference. I provide non-judgmental, warm and thoughtful support 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.
Welcome, I'm Ketura, counsellor at Transformative Place Counselling Service. I specialise in working with individuals diagnosed with borderline personality disorder work on emotional regulation and trauma, but you do not have to have BPD to benefit from the services I offer. I encourage you to explore emotions, how you hold these and memories within your body, gaining awareness of your nervous system's language. To learn how to unlock and be with discomfort and unfamiliar thoughts, emotions, memories and to make new experiences, to tolerate and manage distress and integrate past trauma/experiences into the present and thrive
Welcome, I'm Ketura, counsellor at Transformative Place Counselling Service. I specialise in working with individuals diagnosed with borderline personality disorder work on emotional regulation and trauma, but you do not have to have BPD to benefit from the services I offer. I encourage you to explore emotions, how you hold these and memories within your body, gaining awareness of your nervous system's language. To learn how to unlock and be with discomfort and unfamiliar thoughts, emotions, memories and to make new experiences, to tolerate and manage distress and integrate past trauma/experiences into the present and thrive
I support individuals who have experienced physical, emotional, psychological, systemic, generational, cultural, financial and sexual abuse, as well as individuals who are experiencing mental health concerns. Using a holistic and strength based approach when supporting individuals along their recovery journey and draws from a range of evidence based therapeutic approaches including but not limited to Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR at an Advanced Training level), person-centred therapy, solutions-focused therapy, polyvagal theory and cognitive behavioural therapy
I support individuals who have experienced physical, emotional, psychological, systemic, generational, cultural, financial and sexual abuse, as well as individuals who are experiencing mental health concerns. Using a holistic and strength based approach when supporting individuals along their recovery journey and draws from a range of evidence based therapeutic approaches including but not limited to Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR at an Advanced Training level), person-centred therapy, solutions-focused therapy, polyvagal theory and cognitive behavioural therapy
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.
Nearby Sexual Abuse Therapists Searches for Saint Albans
- Caroline Springs
- Essendon
- Essendon North
- Hoppers Crossing
- Kingsville
- Maidstone
- Strathmore
- Sunshine
- Tarneit
- Taylors Lakes
- Truganina
- West Footscray
Sexual Abuse Therapists
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.