Personality Disorders Psychologists and Therapists 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
Sue Guzick
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Saint Kilda East, VIC 3183
Hello, I’m Sue. I am a Counsellor, Art Therapist, and established Bright Black Art Therapy & Counselling in 2018. You might be considering therapy with long experience of feeling anxious and overwhelmed. Although you have tried many things, it’s not working as well as you would like. I offer a person-centred style, towards understanding YOU and your experiences. Together we use a range of therapeutic methods and choose what is most helpful for you. Therapy plans can include development and practicing new ways for you to work with your most challenging experiences, so they feel like less of a barrier to do what matters most to you.
Hello, I’m Sue. I am a Counsellor, Art Therapist, and established Bright Black Art Therapy & Counselling in 2018. You might be considering therapy with long experience of feeling anxious and overwhelmed. Although you have tried many things, it’s not working as well as you would like. I offer a person-centred style, towards understanding YOU and your experiences. Together we use a range of therapeutic methods and choose what is most helpful for you. Therapy plans can include development and practicing new ways for you to work with your most challenging experiences, so they feel like less of a barrier to do what matters most to you.
0439 413 858 View 0439 413 858
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
Lucy Adlard
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Her clinical interests include behaviour change and addictions, emotional regulation, anxiety (in all its forms), sleep, and mood and personality disorders.
Lucy adapts her therapeutic style to suit each individual, drawing from a range of evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Schema Therapy, and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT).
Her clinical interests include behaviour change and addictions, emotional regulation, anxiety (in all its forms), sleep, and mood and personality disorders.
Lucy adapts her therapeutic style to suit each individual, drawing from a range of evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Schema Therapy, and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT).
(03) 9605 3535 View (03) 9605 3535
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
Maya Feldman
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Serves Area
Maya Feldman is a registered Clinical Psychologist and a Full Member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS). Over the past 16yrs she worked in private practice &held positions in Public and Private Mental Health Settings. Maya utilises evidence based psychological modalities including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, Relaxation Training, Motivational Interviewing. Maya works with a range of presenting problems including Stress and Worry, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Emotional Difficulties, Relationship Issues, Grief and loss, Self Esteem and Self Improvement.
Maya Feldman is a registered Clinical Psychologist and a Full Member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS). Over the past 16yrs she worked in private practice &held positions in Public and Private Mental Health Settings. Maya utilises evidence based psychological modalities including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, Relaxation Training, Motivational Interviewing. Maya works with a range of presenting problems including Stress and Worry, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Emotional Difficulties, Relationship Issues, Grief and loss, Self Esteem and Self Improvement.
(03) 9068 5852 View (03) 9068 5852
Clare O'Bree
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
My therapeutic work holds at its core, a valuing of relationships, and a deep respect for individual life stories. Whatever concern brings you to therapy, my approach will be to collaborate with you sensitively and attentively so that we can move towards deeper understanding of what really matters to you. Through this intricate and attuned process, we can discover what you need in order to experience relief and a greater sense of how to move forward.
My therapeutic work holds at its core, a valuing of relationships, and a deep respect for individual life stories. Whatever concern brings you to therapy, my approach will be to collaborate with you sensitively and attentively so that we can move towards deeper understanding of what really matters to you. Through this intricate and attuned process, we can discover what you need in order to experience relief and a greater sense of how to move forward.
0413 874 330 View 0413 874 330
Dr. Nikolaos Kazantzis
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Dr. Kazantzis is a psychologist and board-approved supervisor registered with AHPRA under the clinical scope of practice. He has over 20 years of experience in psychology consulting within public health (inpatient, outpatient, community mental health, specialist cognitive behavior therapy clinics) and primary care contexts. Dr. Kazantzis is also a Beck Institute CBT Certified Clinician (BICBT-CC).
Dr. Kazantzis is a psychologist and board-approved supervisor registered with AHPRA under the clinical scope of practice. He has over 20 years of experience in psychology consulting within public health (inpatient, outpatient, community mental health, specialist cognitive behavior therapy clinics) and primary care contexts. Dr. Kazantzis is also a Beck Institute CBT Certified Clinician (BICBT-CC).
(03) 9826 0466 View (03) 9826 0466
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. She adopts a family-focused approach, providing clients with a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment, while actively involving the family unit in the journey toward positive change. Sandra also works closely with separated families, offering therapeutic support to navigate complex dynamics, and provides professional reports for court-related purposes to assist in family law matters.
Sandra Ifrah is a registered psychologist with extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing a range of mental health concerns. She adopts a family-focused approach, providing clients with a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment, while actively involving the family unit in the journey toward positive change. Sandra also works closely with separated families, offering therapeutic support to navigate complex dynamics, and provides professional reports for court-related purposes to assist in family law matters.
(03) 6144 6011 View (03) 6144 6011
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
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
Elizabeth Anile
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L2
Serves Area
I work with individuals who feel stuck in patterns of anxiety, self-doubt, or overwhelm and are ready to explore what’s beneath the surface. They may face unresolved trauma, emotional struggles, or relationship challenges. They seek a safe, supportive space to gain clarity and untangle their feelings. Their goal is to feel balanced, connected to their true self, and empowered to navigate life with confidence. They’re motivated by a desire for growth and a deeper sense of peace, authenticity, and fulfillment.
I work with individuals who feel stuck in patterns of anxiety, self-doubt, or overwhelm and are ready to explore what’s beneath the surface. They may face unresolved trauma, emotional struggles, or relationship challenges. They seek a safe, supportive space to gain clarity and untangle their feelings. Their goal is to feel balanced, connected to their true self, and empowered to navigate life with confidence. They’re motivated by a desire for growth and a deeper sense of peace, authenticity, and fulfillment.
View
Gabrielle Klepfisz
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a clinical & forensic psychologist who works with adults navigating trauma, anxiety, mood difficulties, addictive patterns, & eating/body concerns. Many of my clients are reflective and capable but feel stuck in cycles that once helped but are now creating difficulties in their lives. I have substantial experience working with substance use, including ambivalence about change. Whether you want to stop entirely, reduce your use, or simply understand the role of substances in your life, I approach this without judgement, recognising that substance use often reflects attempts to manage stress, emotional pain, or relational strain.
I am a clinical & forensic psychologist who works with adults navigating trauma, anxiety, mood difficulties, addictive patterns, & eating/body concerns. Many of my clients are reflective and capable but feel stuck in cycles that once helped but are now creating difficulties in their lives. I have substantial experience working with substance use, including ambivalence about change. Whether you want to stop entirely, reduce your use, or simply understand the role of substances in your life, I approach this without judgement, recognising that substance use often reflects attempts to manage stress, emotional pain, or relational strain.
(03) 9994 1733 View (03) 9994 1733
Lucianne Grixti
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with people who may be feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain, and who are seeking more than a quick fix. Often, the people that I work with are thoughtful, sensitive, and curious about themselves and their relationships, and have a sense that there is something deeper to be understood about themselves. They may be struggling with recurring patterns, emotional pain, or difficulties that feel hard to explain. In our work together, I offer a steady, reflective space to explore these experiences, supporting greater self-understanding and the possibility of meaningful, lasting change.
I work with people who may be feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain, and who are seeking more than a quick fix. Often, the people that I work with are thoughtful, sensitive, and curious about themselves and their relationships, and have a sense that there is something deeper to be understood about themselves. They may be struggling with recurring patterns, emotional pain, or difficulties that feel hard to explain. In our work together, I offer a steady, reflective space to explore these experiences, supporting greater self-understanding and the possibility of meaningful, lasting change.
0434 142 295 View 0434 142 295
Louise Jones
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
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

More Therapists Nearby

Tony Nguyen
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
We all fall on hard times. Darkness and malevolence are part of the human condition, and tragedy often strikes when we least expect it. The counterbalance is a deep human connection – a helping hand or guiding light. The first step to getting that help is often the hardest, and finding the right person is important. That help can be the difference, and it’s the reason why I became a psychologist.
We all fall on hard times. Darkness and malevolence are part of the human condition, and tragedy often strikes when we least expect it. The counterbalance is a deep human connection – a helping hand or guiding light. The first step to getting that help is often the hardest, and finding the right person is important. That help can be the difference, and it’s the reason why I became a psychologist.
(03) 7003 2142 x61 View (03) 7003 2142 x61
Niki Yuen Fen Bruysters
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Fitzroy North, VIC 3068
I work as a clinical psychologist and practice upon a foundation of empathy and authenticity. To embrace vulnerability is terrifying, so I prioritise creating a supportive safe space with my clients to move towards recovery goals. I am passionate about shifting the ‘hush-hush’ discourse around vulnerabilities with mental health, and empowering individuals to embrace the human nature to experience difficulties.
I work as a clinical psychologist and practice upon a foundation of empathy and authenticity. To embrace vulnerability is terrifying, so I prioritise creating a supportive safe space with my clients to move towards recovery goals. I am passionate about shifting the ‘hush-hush’ discourse around vulnerabilities with mental health, and empowering individuals to embrace the human nature to experience difficulties.
0493 967 479 View 0493 967 479
Kefu Xie
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Glen Waverley, VIC 3150
I am keen to support individuals who are experiencing emotional distress, ongoing mood or relationship difficulties, or the lasting impacts of complex trauma. Many of the people I work with are seeking relief, clarity, or a deeper understanding of themselves and their patterns. I’m passionate about working with clients from LGBTQIA+, neurodiverse, and multicultural communities, offering a safe and affirming space to explore their experiences and work toward meaningful change.
I am keen to support individuals who are experiencing emotional distress, ongoing mood or relationship difficulties, or the lasting impacts of complex trauma. Many of the people I work with are seeking relief, clarity, or a deeper understanding of themselves and their patterns. I’m passionate about working with clients from LGBTQIA+, neurodiverse, and multicultural communities, offering a safe and affirming space to explore their experiences and work toward meaningful change.
0493 156 299 View 0493 156 299
Dr Vesna Newman-Morris
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Carlton, VIC 3053
Dr Vesna Newman-Morris is a senior clinical psychologist with further training in psychoanalysis. She has an established private practice and has worked in specialist public mental health services, community health services, and the university sector. She works with people with diverse backgrounds and a broad variety of issues. Her clinical and research expertise includes the impact of complex developmental trauma on personality function and mental health, including early childhood trauma and abuse, responses to traumatic events, and intergenerational risk and protective factors in attachment relationships.
Dr Vesna Newman-Morris is a senior clinical psychologist with further training in psychoanalysis. She has an established private practice and has worked in specialist public mental health services, community health services, and the university sector. She works with people with diverse backgrounds and a broad variety of issues. Her clinical and research expertise includes the impact of complex developmental trauma on personality function and mental health, including early childhood trauma and abuse, responses to traumatic events, and intergenerational risk and protective factors in attachment relationships.
(03) 8797 5601 View (03) 8797 5601
Ilia Ghanizadeh
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Caroline Springs, VIC 3023
Ilia is bilingual; she speaks English and Farsi/Persian. She has over 15 yeas of clinical practice over-seas and in Australia. She has obtained four degrees in psychology and has successfully treated clients with a variety of issues including chronic and severe problems such as personality disorders. She is equipped with the required knowledge and skills.
Ilia is bilingual; she speaks English and Farsi/Persian. She has over 15 yeas of clinical practice over-seas and in Australia. She has obtained four degrees in psychology and has successfully treated clients with a variety of issues including chronic and severe problems such as personality disorders. She is equipped with the required knowledge and skills.
(03) 7302 2460 View (03) 7302 2460
Personality Disorders Therapists
What are the common treatment options for personality disorders?
Personality disorders are typically treated with psychotherapy, sometimes in conjunction with medication. Therapy can help people with personality disorders develop skills to tolerate difficult emotions, navigate interpersonal relationships, and solidify their sense of self. Medications can treat symptoms that co-occur with the disorder, such as depression, anger, aggression, and impulsivity.

When to seek treatment for personality disorders?
Even though treatment for personality disorders can be an uphill battle, it’s best to seek help if you suspect that you or a loved one is struggling with one, because personality disorders can create substantial problems in life. Symptoms depend on the specific disorder, but overall signs of personality disorders include consistent difficulty maintaining close relationships, dramatic variations in self-esteem, and an unstable sense of identity.

How long does therapy take for personality disorders?
The timeline for treating personality disorders isn’t as clear-cut as it is for other disorders. Change can be difficult, taking from around one year to five, 10, or more. The key is finding a therapist who has extensive experience treating the relevant disorder. For example, a psychologist who specialises in narcissistic personality disorder has specific communication strategies that allow them to sustain the relationship and be more effective with narcissistic patients.

Can therapy help people with personality disorders?
Research suggests that for those who are motivated to address concerns or interpersonal conflict related to a personality disorder, therapy is far more effective than no treatment, and that most people in therapy see improvements. However, since personality disorders involve entrenched elements of identity, they are less responsive to treatment than are other mental health conditions. Finding an expert who has extensive experience working with a given personality disorder is one factor that increases the likelihood of successful treatment.