Psychologists and Therapists for Teens in Saint Kilda East, VIC

Dr Christine Deftereos
Social Worker, PhD, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Saint Kilda East, VIC 3183
I am a Lacanian Psychoanalyst, Accredited Metal Health Social Work and Psychotherapist who hold specialized accreditations in working with Complex Trauma, Acute Stress and Post Traumatic Stress Disorders and a range of mental health presentations. I am committed to providing best practice trauma informed care in a confidential, sensitive and validating therapeutic space, with an emphasis on ‘learning to live with our stories.’ My primary ethical commitment is to provide a safe non-judgmental space for ‘bearing witness,’ for truth telling,’ and in sharing your ‘lived experiences’ via free association. I am also an EMDR Practitioner.
I am a Lacanian Psychoanalyst, Accredited Metal Health Social Work and Psychotherapist who hold specialized accreditations in working with Complex Trauma, Acute Stress and Post Traumatic Stress Disorders and a range of mental health presentations. I am committed to providing best practice trauma informed care in a confidential, sensitive and validating therapeutic space, with an emphasis on ‘learning to live with our stories.’ My primary ethical commitment is to provide a safe non-judgmental space for ‘bearing witness,’ for truth telling,’ and in sharing your ‘lived experiences’ via free association. I am also an EMDR Practitioner.
(03) 7003 2924 View (03) 7003 2924
Mig Zvirblyte
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Online Only
Hello, I’m Mig! I’m a registered online counsellor with a focus on supporting young people, people experiencing depression or anxiety, and members of LGBTQIA+ community. I draw on ACT and mindfulness, DBT, CBT and somatic therapy in my sessions, and I also bring my lived experience as a queer and neurodivergent person into my practice where appropriate. Sessions are person-centred, collaborative and I welcome clients from all walks of life. A central part of my therapeutic approach is helping clients develop practical skills and build a personalised toolkit they can draw on long after therapy ends.
Hello, I’m Mig! I’m a registered online counsellor with a focus on supporting young people, people experiencing depression or anxiety, and members of LGBTQIA+ community. I draw on ACT and mindfulness, DBT, CBT and somatic therapy in my sessions, and I also bring my lived experience as a queer and neurodivergent person into my practice where appropriate. Sessions are person-centred, collaborative and I welcome clients from all walks of life. A central part of my therapeutic approach is helping clients develop practical skills and build a personalised toolkit they can draw on long after therapy ends.
View
Headway Therapy Online
Psychologist, MAPS
Online Only
Welcome! My name is Zipporah, I am a passionate and dedicated psychologist and Founder and Director at Headway Therapy Online. I understand that life can be challenging, and seeking help is a brave and important step toward healing and growth. My approach to therapy stems from a genuine commitment to supporting individuals in navigating the complexities of life’s emotional and mental health struggles and situations. Whether you are dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship challenges; I am here to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can develop skills to support you through your journey.
Welcome! My name is Zipporah, I am a passionate and dedicated psychologist and Founder and Director at Headway Therapy Online. I understand that life can be challenging, and seeking help is a brave and important step toward healing and growth. My approach to therapy stems from a genuine commitment to supporting individuals in navigating the complexities of life’s emotional and mental health struggles and situations. Whether you are dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship challenges; I am here to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can develop skills to support you through your journey.
(03) 9068 5216 View (03) 9068 5216
Meir Kluwgant
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Saint Kilda East, VIC 3183
The challenges associated with mental health are so real and prevalent in society. In fact more than one in five Australians will be impacted by some form of mental illness or condition in their lifetime. Grief, loss and trauma informed counselling, in addition to support for relationship conflict, and generalised anxiety and depression, form the mainstay of his practice. Meir is also a member of the ACA College of Supervisors and an accredited Counselling Supervisor providing support and supervision to counsellors and psychotherapists who work in all fields of mental health.
The challenges associated with mental health are so real and prevalent in society. In fact more than one in five Australians will be impacted by some form of mental illness or condition in their lifetime. Grief, loss and trauma informed counselling, in addition to support for relationship conflict, and generalised anxiety and depression, form the mainstay of his practice. Meir is also a member of the ACA College of Supervisors and an accredited Counselling Supervisor providing support and supervision to counsellors and psychotherapists who work in all fields of mental health.
(03) 7003 2276 View (03) 7003 2276
Suzanne Sharp
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Life doesn't come with a user's guide and all of us struggle at times. In looking for a therapist you have taken a step toward finding greater ease in your life. Psychotherapy is about building a greater awareness and understanding of your patterns in life. This allows you to find a sense of spaciousness where, rather than act reactively, you can make more conscious choices and cultivate a stronger sense of self. If you find yourself often feeling anxious or depressed, held back by past traumas, not living the life you want, or lacking direction, then please reach out so I can support you in finding the change you need.
Life doesn't come with a user's guide and all of us struggle at times. In looking for a therapist you have taken a step toward finding greater ease in your life. Psychotherapy is about building a greater awareness and understanding of your patterns in life. This allows you to find a sense of spaciousness where, rather than act reactively, you can make more conscious choices and cultivate a stronger sense of self. If you find yourself often feeling anxious or depressed, held back by past traumas, not living the life you want, or lacking direction, then please reach out so I can support you in finding the change you need.
(03) 7003 2693 View (03) 7003 2693
Jason Kozica
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Jason loves animals and has two certified therapy dogs, who help make clients feel calm and they often join clients for a “walk and talk” session. Jason particularly likes working with neurodivergent young people and is dedicated to neuroaffirming practices. He has extensive experience working with autistic and ADHD clients and can also do neuroaffirming assessments. He also has substantial experience working with clients with OCD and schizophrenia and has completed intensive training in Exposure and Response Prevention therapy(ERP).
Jason loves animals and has two certified therapy dogs, who help make clients feel calm and they often join clients for a “walk and talk” session. Jason particularly likes working with neurodivergent young people and is dedicated to neuroaffirming practices. He has extensive experience working with autistic and ADHD clients and can also do neuroaffirming assessments. He also has substantial experience working with clients with OCD and schizophrenia and has completed intensive training in Exposure and Response Prevention therapy(ERP).
(03) 8771 4393 View (03) 8771 4393
Melbourne Centre for Womens Mental Health
Psychologist, PhD, FAPS
Serves Area
Melbourne Centre for Women’s Mental Health supports women and girls experiencing anxiety, eating and body image concerns, trauma, grief, and complex life transitions. Many clients seek support when demands have become difficult to manage, or when previous approaches have not led to meaningful change. We provide individual, evidence-based psychological care tailored to each client, helping them understand what’s happening, reduce distress, and move toward more sustainable patterns of functioning. As a feminist-informed service, we are committed to anti-oppressive, respectful care and collaborative, coordinated support where needed.
Melbourne Centre for Women’s Mental Health supports women and girls experiencing anxiety, eating and body image concerns, trauma, grief, and complex life transitions. Many clients seek support when demands have become difficult to manage, or when previous approaches have not led to meaningful change. We provide individual, evidence-based psychological care tailored to each client, helping them understand what’s happening, reduce distress, and move toward more sustainable patterns of functioning. As a feminist-informed service, we are committed to anti-oppressive, respectful care and collaborative, coordinated support where needed.
(03) 7044 6711 View (03) 7044 6711
Dr Maddy Fernando
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Maddy—a senior clinical psychologist helping children, young people, and adults create lives that feel steadier, more connected, and more fulfilling. With younger clients, I use playful, creative approaches to make therapy engaging; with adults, our work is reflective, practical, and empowering. I help with common challenges like anxiety, low mood, stress, and adjusting to major life changes, as well as more complex concerns including trauma recovery, navigating neurodivergence (i.e ADHD, autism), borderline personality disorder, eating disorders, and obsessive or compulsive behaviours—focusing on meaningful, lasting change.
Hi, I’m Maddy—a senior clinical psychologist helping children, young people, and adults create lives that feel steadier, more connected, and more fulfilling. With younger clients, I use playful, creative approaches to make therapy engaging; with adults, our work is reflective, practical, and empowering. I help with common challenges like anxiety, low mood, stress, and adjusting to major life changes, as well as more complex concerns including trauma recovery, navigating neurodivergence (i.e ADHD, autism), borderline personality disorder, eating disorders, and obsessive or compulsive behaviours—focusing on meaningful, lasting change.
0426 415 617 View 0426 415 617
Kate Rooney
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Kate, an experienced Clinical Psychologist who is passionate about empowering children, teens and their families to navigate emotional challenges, harness their strengths and develop new skills for a brighter, more resilient future.
I have a warm, empathic and collaborative therapy style tailored to meet the individual needs of my clients and their families and drawing from a variety of evidence-based therapeutic approaches. I aim to enhance the understanding of a child's unique strengths, needs and challenges, while building their capacity to manage the struggles they are experiencing.
Hi, I'm Kate, an experienced Clinical Psychologist who is passionate about empowering children, teens and their families to navigate emotional challenges, harness their strengths and develop new skills for a brighter, more resilient future.
I have a warm, empathic and collaborative therapy style tailored to meet the individual needs of my clients and their families and drawing from a variety of evidence-based therapeutic approaches. I aim to enhance the understanding of a child's unique strengths, needs and challenges, while building their capacity to manage the struggles they are experiencing.
0425 154 318 View 0425 154 318
Dr Cassie Roberts - Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Hello, my name is Cassie and I'm a clinical psychologist working with adolescents and adults.
My approach is tailored to your needs and providing a sense of relief, healing and empowerment. I will listen, understand and reflect on what you say in order for you to see things more clearly, or from a different perspective. I offer long- or short-term therapy, depending on your needs.
Hello, my name is Cassie and I'm a clinical psychologist working with adolescents and adults.
My approach is tailored to your needs and providing a sense of relief, healing and empowerment. I will listen, understand and reflect on what you say in order for you to see things more clearly, or from a different perspective. I offer long- or short-term therapy, depending on your needs.
View
Naomi Rubinstein
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Serves Area
Every relationship experiences challenges. Whether you're feeling disconnected, caught in recurring conflict, struggling to communicate, or navigating a major life transition, improvement is possible. As a counsellor with Gottman Method Levels 1, 2 and 3 training, I use proven relationship interventions tailored to your unique circumstances, helping you create a stronger, healthier, and more fulfilling relationship. I provide a supportive, non-judgemental space where you can better understand each other's needs, strengthen communication, and rebuild trust and connection.
Every relationship experiences challenges. Whether you're feeling disconnected, caught in recurring conflict, struggling to communicate, or navigating a major life transition, improvement is possible. As a counsellor with Gottman Method Levels 1, 2 and 3 training, I use proven relationship interventions tailored to your unique circumstances, helping you create a stronger, healthier, and more fulfilling relationship. I provide a supportive, non-judgemental space where you can better understand each other's needs, strengthen communication, and rebuild trust and connection.
(03) 7003 2543 View (03) 7003 2543
Dr Shalya Hirschson
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Serves Area
As a psychologist, I feel privileged, to observe & work with the difficult life experiences, which lead individuals to engage in therapy. I believe that therapy is a form of self-exploration & learning. In sessions, I use safe, containing ways to help clients process their thoughts and feelings, gaining insight and understanding, so that they can navigate the world around them, with a sense of confidence, purpose and hope. I help clients develop skills to manage their discomfort, pain, uncertainty and fear, to facilitate change in their lives and improve their overall sense of well-being.
As a psychologist, I feel privileged, to observe & work with the difficult life experiences, which lead individuals to engage in therapy. I believe that therapy is a form of self-exploration & learning. In sessions, I use safe, containing ways to help clients process their thoughts and feelings, gaining insight and understanding, so that they can navigate the world around them, with a sense of confidence, purpose and hope. I help clients develop skills to manage their discomfort, pain, uncertainty and fear, to facilitate change in their lives and improve their overall sense of well-being.
(03) 9988 1271 View (03) 9988 1271
Stronger Together Psychotherapy
Social Worker, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am an accredited mental health social worker (AMHSW) and accredited EMDR practitioner with over 20 years of clinical experience working with children, adolescents, adults, families and couples.
You may be feeling overwhelmed by trauma, anxiety, or depression, and finding it hard to fully engage in life. Unprocessed experiences can stay stuck in the nervous system, keeping you on edge or disconnected. I offer a safe, empathetic space where you are truly heard. Using evidence-based trauma therapy, including EMDR, I help you process the past, reduce distress, and create lasting change—so you can regain control, resilience, and live more fully, not just cope.
I am an accredited mental health social worker (AMHSW) and accredited EMDR practitioner with over 20 years of clinical experience working with children, adolescents, adults, families and couples.
You may be feeling overwhelmed by trauma, anxiety, or depression, and finding it hard to fully engage in life. Unprocessed experiences can stay stuck in the nervous system, keeping you on edge or disconnected. I offer a safe, empathetic space where you are truly heard. Using evidence-based trauma therapy, including EMDR, I help you process the past, reduce distress, and create lasting change—so you can regain control, resilience, and live more fully, not just cope.
0413 316 492 View 0413 316 492
Jade Araujo
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Online Only
I work primarily with adults experiencing trauma, burnout, relationship difficulties and anxiety, as well as those seeking greater understanding of ADHD or autism. Many of my clients are capable, thoughtful individuals who have spent years managing challenges independently, yet find themselves feeling stuck in familiar patterns or overwhelmed by ongoing demands. Therapy offers a space to better understand these experiences, develop insight and create meaningful, lasting change. Together, we explore the experiences, beliefs and coping patterns that may be influencing your wellbeing, relationships and sense of self.
I work primarily with adults experiencing trauma, burnout, relationship difficulties and anxiety, as well as those seeking greater understanding of ADHD or autism. Many of my clients are capable, thoughtful individuals who have spent years managing challenges independently, yet find themselves feeling stuck in familiar patterns or overwhelmed by ongoing demands. Therapy offers a space to better understand these experiences, develop insight and create meaningful, lasting change. Together, we explore the experiences, beliefs and coping patterns that may be influencing your wellbeing, relationships and sense of self.
View
Chris Bolton
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I place an emphasis on a respectful relationship where thoughts and feelings are treated with sensitivity and honesty. I provide a supportive and relaxed environment, and believe that no thought or feeling deserves judgment in therapy. I enjoy helping people with anxiety, phobias, OCD, depression, trauma, problems with assertiveness, anger, behavioural problems, and relationship issues. I hope to offer people an opportunity to understand what is happening inside themselves that is causing their suffering, to build skills to regulate anxiety, to gain stability in relationships, and to heal and unlock potential.
I place an emphasis on a respectful relationship where thoughts and feelings are treated with sensitivity and honesty. I provide a supportive and relaxed environment, and believe that no thought or feeling deserves judgment in therapy. I enjoy helping people with anxiety, phobias, OCD, depression, trauma, problems with assertiveness, anger, behavioural problems, and relationship issues. I hope to offer people an opportunity to understand what is happening inside themselves that is causing their suffering, to build skills to regulate anxiety, to gain stability in relationships, and to heal and unlock potential.
(03) 7003 2703 View (03) 7003 2703
Christina Kioulafas
Counsellor, PACFA
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I work with Complex PTSD, Autism and ADHD as specialties, I also have a background in child and adolescent psychotherapy - which helps me to see you throughout your whole lifespan.
Are you feeling stuck? Do you feel like there are always challenges that stop you from a balanced life? Or maybe you are struggling with the same patterns and trauma that just won't go away? Modern life can be so complicated, there is so much happening in the world it can be hard to find our own place in it. People are struggling in this global climate. Counselling can help you to connect to yourself. So often we think about connection to others, but how can we do that when we feel a sense of unrest and disconnection to our true self?
I work with Complex PTSD, Autism and ADHD as specialties, I also have a background in child and adolescent psychotherapy - which helps me to see you throughout your whole lifespan.
Are you feeling stuck? Do you feel like there are always challenges that stop you from a balanced life? Or maybe you are struggling with the same patterns and trauma that just won't go away? Modern life can be so complicated, there is so much happening in the world it can be hard to find our own place in it. People are struggling in this global climate. Counselling can help you to connect to yourself. So often we think about connection to others, but how can we do that when we feel a sense of unrest and disconnection to our true self?
(03) 7003 2090 View (03) 7003 2090
Lauren Ross
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Serves Area
Do you have a wish to understand your mind, to become un-stuck, and to have healthier relationships with yourself and others? I launched Melbourne Psychology House to offer people an opportunity to understand what is happening inside themselves that is causing their suffering, to build skills to regulate anxiety, to gain stability in relationships, and to heal and unlock potential. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, relationship difficulties, women's health concerns, emotion regulation challenges, and more.
Do you have a wish to understand your mind, to become un-stuck, and to have healthier relationships with yourself and others? I launched Melbourne Psychology House to offer people an opportunity to understand what is happening inside themselves that is causing their suffering, to build skills to regulate anxiety, to gain stability in relationships, and to heal and unlock potential. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, relationship difficulties, women's health concerns, emotion regulation challenges, and more.
(03) 7003 2027 View (03) 7003 2027
Louise Jones
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Louise is an EMDR-accredited psychologist, providing trauma-focused and informed counselling and assessment services to people experiencing a wide range of mental health issues. She is committed to working with clients to move beyond symptom management to address the issues that are underlying their presenting concerns. Louise provides a safe and respectful space in which people can explore the challenges they are facing at a pace that is led by them and tailored to their specific needs.
Louise is an EMDR-accredited psychologist, providing trauma-focused and informed counselling and assessment services to people experiencing a wide range of mental health issues. She is committed to working with clients to move beyond symptom management to address the issues that are underlying their presenting concerns. Louise provides a safe and respectful space in which people can explore the challenges they are facing at a pace that is led by them and tailored to their specific needs.
(03) 8658 1285 View (03) 8658 1285
Sandra Ifrah
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Sandra Ifrah is a registered psychologist with extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing a range of mental health concerns.
Sandra’s experience stems from working in many different organizations and settings, both in the public and private sectors. She has worked in schools, hospitals, and community settings and believes that a team effort will yield the best results in the long run.
Sandra Ifrah is a registered psychologist with extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing a range of mental health concerns.
Sandra’s experience stems from working in many different organizations and settings, both in the public and private sectors. She has worked in schools, hospitals, and community settings and believes that a team effort will yield the best results in the long run.
(03) 6144 6011 View (03) 6144 6011
Alexandra Stone
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am clinical psychologist committed to creating a warm, respectful, and inclusive therapeutic environment. I focus my practice on fostering a non-judgmental and accepting space where clients feel free to express themselves authentically. I draw on a range of therapeutic techniques and modalities, tailoring each session to meet the unique needs and therapeutic goals of each client.
I am clinical psychologist committed to creating a warm, respectful, and inclusive therapeutic environment. I focus my practice on fostering a non-judgmental and accepting space where clients feel free to express themselves authentically. I draw on a range of therapeutic techniques and modalities, tailoring each session to meet the unique needs and therapeutic goals of each client.
0450 093 588 View 0450 093 588
FAQ - Teenage and Adolescent Therapists
What does therapy for teenagers look like?
When a therapist works with a teenager, the pair will talk about what the teen is struggling with and explore solutions, which may involve interpersonal skills, coping strategies, medication, or lifestyle changes related to sleep, diet, and exercise. Different therapists employ different modalities, but most involve a combination of conversation and skill building.

How long does therapy for teenagers generally take to work?
There’s variability in teenagers’ experiences and challenges; some may begin to improve from therapy within a few weeks while others may take several months or longer. Teens can discuss their progress with their therapist periodically to assess how they’re improving and any changes to the treatment plan that could potentially accelerate that progress.

How do you encourage a teenager to go to therapy?
It’s helpful to express your concern and love while framing therapy as an opportunity to explore a tool that could help improve their life; just like they practice baseball or dance, now they can practice their emotional skills. Give your teen control over the process where you can—maybe by weighing in on choice of therapist and signaling that therapy involves confidentiality, so a parent need not know all that is discussed in sessions.

How do you prepare teens for therapy?
You can prepare your teenager for therapy by describing what the process will look like and setting expectations for timeline, if requested. You can explain that the first session may begin with an assessment phase, that they can describe their experiences but that the therapist will ask questions too, and that it may take time to feel comfortable opening up. Ask how they’re feeling about the process and answer any questions calmly and supportively.