Internal Family Systems (IFS) Psychologists and Therapists in Saint Kilda, VIC

Photo of Dr Shikha Gray, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Shikha Gray
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Saint Kilda, VIC 3182
I work with adults & couples dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD & complex trauma, relationship difficulties, OCD and other emotional concerns. I approach therapy with a deep curiosity about you: how you see things like noone else. Depending on what brings you to therapy, we may explore how pivotal moments in life have shaped you, your beliefs, and your relationships, or we may look at practical ways you could bring about the changes you hope for. My aim is to provide a supportive space that helps you understand things more clearly, accept yourself more fully, and feel more capable of meeting life’s challenges.
I work with adults & couples dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD & complex trauma, relationship difficulties, OCD and other emotional concerns. I approach therapy with a deep curiosity about you: how you see things like noone else. Depending on what brings you to therapy, we may explore how pivotal moments in life have shaped you, your beliefs, and your relationships, or we may look at practical ways you could bring about the changes you hope for. My aim is to provide a supportive space that helps you understand things more clearly, accept yourself more fully, and feel more capable of meeting life’s challenges.
(03) 7003 2197 View (03) 7003 2197
Photo of Ronnie Adamowicz, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Ronnie Adamowicz
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Saint Kilda, VIC 3182
Are you feeling stuck, like something important is missing from your life, but you can't quite put your finger on it? Do you find it challenging to have your emotional needs met in relationships? Are you trapped in repetitive patterns, struggling to define healthy boundaries? There is a reason behind these struggles, and together, we will uncover what is holding you back, providing you with the clarity and confidence needed to turn things around. I specialize in somatic therapy, an approach that dives deep into the core of unresolved trauma within the body, facilitating rapid healing.
Are you feeling stuck, like something important is missing from your life, but you can't quite put your finger on it? Do you find it challenging to have your emotional needs met in relationships? Are you trapped in repetitive patterns, struggling to define healthy boundaries? There is a reason behind these struggles, and together, we will uncover what is holding you back, providing you with the clarity and confidence needed to turn things around. I specialize in somatic therapy, an approach that dives deep into the core of unresolved trauma within the body, facilitating rapid healing.
(03) 7037 6993 View (03) 7037 6993
Photo of Gabrielle Klepfisz, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Gabrielle Klepfisz
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Saint Kilda, VIC 3182
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
Photo of Catriona Lightfoot, Social Worker, AMHSW
Catriona Lightfoot
Social Worker, AMHSW
Saint Kilda, VIC 3182
Waitlist for new clients
I have been working exclusively with couples for over 15 years, to help people just like you get over relationship hurdles that get in the way of your connection and make your relationship feel harder than it should be. If you are looking to strengthen and grow your relationship or perhaps stop the fights or you have a particular problem - even big ones like affairs - you haven’t been able to get past I can help you.
I have been working exclusively with couples for over 15 years, to help people just like you get over relationship hurdles that get in the way of your connection and make your relationship feel harder than it should be. If you are looking to strengthen and grow your relationship or perhaps stop the fights or you have a particular problem - even big ones like affairs - you haven’t been able to get past I can help you.
(07) 3088 9135 View (07) 3088 9135
Photo of Michelle Thomson - Port Phillip Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Port Phillip Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Saint Kilda, VIC 3182
Port Phillip Psychology is a friendly practice in Melbourne's Bayside suburbs of St Kilda and Chelsea. We provide counselling for children, adults and couples across a broad range of issues including: anxiety, depression, ADHD, ASD, grief, trauma, infidelity, and relationship issues. We offer assessments at our Chelsea clinic for ADHD and ASD. Our psychologists use a variety of therapies including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), EMDR, Mindfulness, Solution Focussed Therapy and Gottman relationship counselling. You can discover more in the team section on our website.
Port Phillip Psychology is a friendly practice in Melbourne's Bayside suburbs of St Kilda and Chelsea. We provide counselling for children, adults and couples across a broad range of issues including: anxiety, depression, ADHD, ASD, grief, trauma, infidelity, and relationship issues. We offer assessments at our Chelsea clinic for ADHD and ASD. Our psychologists use a variety of therapies including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), EMDR, Mindfulness, Solution Focussed Therapy and Gottman relationship counselling. You can discover more in the team section on our website.
(03) 8797 2849 View (03) 8797 2849
Photo of Christine Savides, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Christine Savides
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
Feeling you need support outside of your family and friends? Not sure about changing or enhancing some aspect of your life? I work with adults, couples and older teenagers looking for solutions. Knowing WHY a pattern keeps showing up or being aware of a past trauma or event can be helpful, AND sometimes "why" just isn't enough to create the change. Combining Gestalt psychotherapy with SE (Somatic Experiencing), we can begin to shift the patterns that are stored in our bodies and our mind memory. Contact me right now and let’s get working!
Feeling you need support outside of your family and friends? Not sure about changing or enhancing some aspect of your life? I work with adults, couples and older teenagers looking for solutions. Knowing WHY a pattern keeps showing up or being aware of a past trauma or event can be helpful, AND sometimes "why" just isn't enough to create the change. Combining Gestalt psychotherapy with SE (Somatic Experiencing), we can begin to shift the patterns that are stored in our bodies and our mind memory. Contact me right now and let’s get working!
0438 446 634 View 0438 446 634
Photo of Justine Campbell, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Justine Campbell
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Don't expect to see a change if you don't make one. I enable positive change. My clients may have seen a therapist or coach before, but it didn't change anything for them. They then come to me. They want to make lasting positive change in their lives, but they need somebody to give them structured tools and support them in the growth process. Change can be good, but it is not easy. Typically, my clients come to me feeling that living on auto-pilot or that they have lost touch with who they are at their core. They desire more life satisfaction and are prepared to work for it. They want to thrive not just survive.
Don't expect to see a change if you don't make one. I enable positive change. My clients may have seen a therapist or coach before, but it didn't change anything for them. They then come to me. They want to make lasting positive change in their lives, but they need somebody to give them structured tools and support them in the growth process. Change can be good, but it is not easy. Typically, my clients come to me feeling that living on auto-pilot or that they have lost touch with who they are at their core. They desire more life satisfaction and are prepared to work for it. They want to thrive not just survive.
(03) 7003 2183 View (03) 7003 2183
Photo of Jo Efron, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Jo Efron
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
Many people reach a point where past experiences, trauma, or life transitions feel too heavy to manage alone. In my practice, I offer a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space to explore emotional dysregulation, grief, and patterns shaped by difficult family dynamics. Together we work toward clarity, self-understanding, and meaningful change, helping you navigate life with balance. I bring a depth-oriented approach informed by trauma work, Jungian psychology, and decades of clinical experience. You’ll find me down to earth, easy to talk to, and committed to providing a confidential space in a realistic 90-minute timeframe.
Many people reach a point where past experiences, trauma, or life transitions feel too heavy to manage alone. In my practice, I offer a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space to explore emotional dysregulation, grief, and patterns shaped by difficult family dynamics. Together we work toward clarity, self-understanding, and meaningful change, helping you navigate life with balance. I bring a depth-oriented approach informed by trauma work, Jungian psychology, and decades of clinical experience. You’ll find me down to earth, easy to talk to, and committed to providing a confidential space in a realistic 90-minute timeframe.
(03) 7003 2157 View (03) 7003 2157
Photo of Liam Hiney - Liam Hiney - The Connection Concept, Counsellor
Liam Hiney - The Connection Concept
Counsellor
Serves Area
I specialise in helping individuals, couples, and adolescents navigate life’s challenges, including anxiety, trauma, relationship struggles, and life transitions. Therapy with me is a collaborative journey to uncover the root causes of your concerns, equip you with practical tools, and foster meaningful, sustainable change. My goal is to provide a safe, compassionate space where you feel truly heard and supported. If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward, know that you're not alone—and change is possible.
I specialise in helping individuals, couples, and adolescents navigate life’s challenges, including anxiety, trauma, relationship struggles, and life transitions. Therapy with me is a collaborative journey to uncover the root causes of your concerns, equip you with practical tools, and foster meaningful, sustainable change. My goal is to provide a safe, compassionate space where you feel truly heard and supported. If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward, know that you're not alone—and change is possible.
(03) 8658 2174 View (03) 8658 2174
Photo of Dr Stephanie Shippen, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Stephanie Shippen
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Being human can be hard. You may feel alone in your struggles. It's important to have a place where you can let your guard down, acknowledge what you're facing, and begin healing. I love providing clients with this type of support. I help clients get to know themselves more deeply. I enjoy working with clients to identify and overcome barriers, prepare and cope with life transitions, heal from trauma, tend and befriend feelings, cultivate self-acceptance and self-compassion, build healthy relationships, and foster meaning and purpose in their life.
Being human can be hard. You may feel alone in your struggles. It's important to have a place where you can let your guard down, acknowledge what you're facing, and begin healing. I love providing clients with this type of support. I help clients get to know themselves more deeply. I enjoy working with clients to identify and overcome barriers, prepare and cope with life transitions, heal from trauma, tend and befriend feelings, cultivate self-acceptance and self-compassion, build healthy relationships, and foster meaning and purpose in their life.
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Photo of Natalie Sarah Cohen, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Natalie Sarah Cohen
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a seasoned counselor, I endeavor to bring a wealth of empathy and insight to guide individuals on their journey to self-discovery and healing. With a blend of modalities and evidence-based therapeutic techniques, I create a safe space for clients to explore their emotions and experiences. I am dedicated to fostering resilience and empowering others to overcome obstacles. Known for a compassionate approach and a commitment to continuous professional development, I offer support and connection, helping individuals navigate life
As a seasoned counselor, I endeavor to bring a wealth of empathy and insight to guide individuals on their journey to self-discovery and healing. With a blend of modalities and evidence-based therapeutic techniques, I create a safe space for clients to explore their emotions and experiences. I am dedicated to fostering resilience and empowering others to overcome obstacles. Known for a compassionate approach and a commitment to continuous professional development, I offer support and connection, helping individuals navigate life
(03) 7500 5004 View (03) 7500 5004
Photo of Joanne Dennison - South Yarra Psychology, Psychologist, FAPS
South Yarra Psychology
Psychologist, FAPS
Serves Area
South Yarra Psychology sees clients with a wide range of presenting issues. The practice has a team of highly-qualified psychologists. The practice offers a free 10-minute 'psychologist matching appointment' for new clients (via telephone); to discuss their treatment needs and recommend a psychologist who is best suited to these. Appointments (including the free psychologist matching appointment) can be booked through the practice's online booking system (accessible via www.SYP.au). The website also contains profiles on each of the psychologists, with their specific interests and treatment approaches.
South Yarra Psychology sees clients with a wide range of presenting issues. The practice has a team of highly-qualified psychologists. The practice offers a free 10-minute 'psychologist matching appointment' for new clients (via telephone); to discuss their treatment needs and recommend a psychologist who is best suited to these. Appointments (including the free psychologist matching appointment) can be booked through the practice's online booking system (accessible via www.SYP.au). The website also contains profiles on each of the psychologists, with their specific interests and treatment approaches.
(03) 9070 5676 View (03) 9070 5676
Photo of Nina Stevanovic - Nina Stevanovic Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Nina Stevanovic Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I use a combination of therapeutic modalities, including CBT, IFS and Somatic Therapy.
Welcome to my therapy space! I am particularly interested in helping women overcome perfectionism, people pleasing, self-worth challenges and body dissatisfaction. I love to help women explore all the different parts of who they are and who they want to become, through dismantling old stories and belief patterns, and identifying new ways of being. I also offer a space where women are able to discuss sexuality and delve into taboo topics, if that is something that they wish to explore.
I use a combination of therapeutic modalities, including CBT, IFS and Somatic Therapy.
Welcome to my therapy space! I am particularly interested in helping women overcome perfectionism, people pleasing, self-worth challenges and body dissatisfaction. I love to help women explore all the different parts of who they are and who they want to become, through dismantling old stories and belief patterns, and identifying new ways of being. I also offer a space where women are able to discuss sexuality and delve into taboo topics, if that is something that they wish to explore.
(03) 7500 5471 View (03) 7500 5471
Photo of Susan Lackner - MSRCC - Specialist Relationship Therapists, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
MSRCC - Specialist Relationship Therapists
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Serves Area
Melbourne Specialist Relationship Counselling Clinic (MSRCC) provides specialised couple, relationship and marriage counselling for couples and individuals seeking relationship support and more from their relationship. Do you find yourself and your significant other at a crossroads, where you often find yourself experiencing similar problems and difficulties and struggling to navigate through your differences? Do you and your partner find yourselves stuck in negative patterns, struggling to resolve the same conflicts again and again? Are issues in your sexual relationship or parenting style causing friction?
Melbourne Specialist Relationship Counselling Clinic (MSRCC) provides specialised couple, relationship and marriage counselling for couples and individuals seeking relationship support and more from their relationship. Do you find yourself and your significant other at a crossroads, where you often find yourself experiencing similar problems and difficulties and struggling to navigate through your differences? Do you and your partner find yourselves stuck in negative patterns, struggling to resolve the same conflicts again and again? Are issues in your sexual relationship or parenting style causing friction?
0411 615 313 View 0411 615 313
Photo of Emma Love, Social Worker, AASW
Emma Love
Social Worker, AASW
Serves Area
I have been trained in EMDR, IFS Informed EMDR, and Somatic Therapy and EMDR.
I deeply enjoy working with adults & LGBTQ+ people who are navigating anxiety, depression, burnout, and trauma. I offer long-term, affirming psychotherapy for individuals who want more than short-term fixes. Many of my clients are thoughtful, high-achieving adults seeking a consistent therapeutic relationship with someone who understands their history, supports them through life’s transitions, and offers steady, relational care over time.
I have been trained in EMDR, IFS Informed EMDR, and Somatic Therapy and EMDR.
I deeply enjoy working with adults & LGBTQ+ people who are navigating anxiety, depression, burnout, and trauma. I offer long-term, affirming psychotherapy for individuals who want more than short-term fixes. Many of my clients are thoughtful, high-achieving adults seeking a consistent therapeutic relationship with someone who understands their history, supports them through life’s transitions, and offers steady, relational care over time.
0480 801 257 View 0480 801 257
Photo of Amy Somers, Counsellor, PACFA
Amy Somers
Counsellor, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I integrate parts-based modalities like Internal- Family Systems and Focusing with Emotion-Focused Therapy.
You've come here because you're suffering in some way. It is my honour to be able to offer a therapy space for people who want to face the pain in their lives, and see what might be on the other side. Many people come at times of change or transition: relationships, life stages, careers, dark nights of the soul, or plunges into the deep end. Or, people come feeling stuck after years of coping with trauma and addiction. In sessions, I support you to identify the conflicts, emotions, memories, and relationship struggles that repeat and we find ways to experience these differently.
I integrate parts-based modalities like Internal- Family Systems and Focusing with Emotion-Focused Therapy.
You've come here because you're suffering in some way. It is my honour to be able to offer a therapy space for people who want to face the pain in their lives, and see what might be on the other side. Many people come at times of change or transition: relationships, life stages, careers, dark nights of the soul, or plunges into the deep end. Or, people come feeling stuck after years of coping with trauma and addiction. In sessions, I support you to identify the conflicts, emotions, memories, and relationship struggles that repeat and we find ways to experience these differently.
(08) 7744 7536 View (08) 7744 7536
Photo of Melissa Jane Moss, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Melissa Jane Moss
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Finding a therapist who can deeply attune to you and creatively integrate approaches that truly align with your needs can be really hard. It often takes energy from every part of your life- especially when you’re already running on empty. I want to reassure you that I understand, both professionally and personally, just how crucial this stage is. That’s why I’ve made it a priority to ensure this part of the process feels as welcoming and informative as possible. ​
Finding a therapist who can deeply attune to you and creatively integrate approaches that truly align with your needs can be really hard. It often takes energy from every part of your life- especially when you’re already running on empty. I want to reassure you that I understand, both professionally and personally, just how crucial this stage is. That’s why I’ve made it a priority to ensure this part of the process feels as welcoming and informative as possible. ​
(03) 7003 2037 View (03) 7003 2037
Photo of Sally Tanner, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Sally Tanner
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Online Only
My approach is integrative and client-led, drawing on CBT, ACT, person-centred, IFS-informed and somatic frameworks - always fitting the approach to you, not the other way around.
Do you feel like you've been living in ways that looked right from the outside, but felt misaligned from within? Whether you're navigating anxiety, burnout, relationship stress, or a deeper question of identity and authenticity, you don't have to keep pushing through alone. I'm Sally, a Melbourne-based counsellor with a Masters in Counselling and ACA Level 2 registration. I specialise in anxiety and burnout, relationship stress, identity and authenticity, and late-diagnosed ADHD and neurodivergence. I offer a warm, evidence-informed space - non-pathologising, collaborative, and entirely on your terms.
My approach is integrative and client-led, drawing on CBT, ACT, person-centred, IFS-informed and somatic frameworks - always fitting the approach to you, not the other way around.
Do you feel like you've been living in ways that looked right from the outside, but felt misaligned from within? Whether you're navigating anxiety, burnout, relationship stress, or a deeper question of identity and authenticity, you don't have to keep pushing through alone. I'm Sally, a Melbourne-based counsellor with a Masters in Counselling and ACA Level 2 registration. I specialise in anxiety and burnout, relationship stress, identity and authenticity, and late-diagnosed ADHD and neurodivergence. I offer a warm, evidence-informed space - non-pathologising, collaborative, and entirely on your terms.
0466 382 582 View 0466 382 582
Photo of Keren Ludski, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Keren Ludski
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Serves Area
I also integrate Internal Family Systems to help you gently understand the parts of you carrying pain, fear, guilt, anger or longing.
I work with people navigating grief, loss and major life transitions, including pregnancy, baby, infant and child loss. Many clients come to me feeling shattered, isolated, overwhelmed or unsure how to carry a loss that has changed them. I offer warm, trauma-informed counselling that gives space for grief to be witnessed without judgement. Together, we gently make sense of what has happened, support the parts of you carrying pain, guilt, fear or longing, and find ways to live alongside grief with more steadiness, self-compassion and support.
I also integrate Internal Family Systems to help you gently understand the parts of you carrying pain, fear, guilt, anger or longing.
I work with people navigating grief, loss and major life transitions, including pregnancy, baby, infant and child loss. Many clients come to me feeling shattered, isolated, overwhelmed or unsure how to carry a loss that has changed them. I offer warm, trauma-informed counselling that gives space for grief to be witnessed without judgement. Together, we gently make sense of what has happened, support the parts of you carrying pain, guilt, fear or longing, and find ways to live alongside grief with more steadiness, self-compassion and support.
0418 897 894 View 0418 897 894
Photo of The Mind Clan - The Mind Clan, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
The Mind Clan
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
The Mind Clan Psychology is a warm, inclusive psychology practice designed specifically for young adults aged 18-35. We understand that the journey to self-healing can be complex, and we’re here to support you with authenticity, humor, and connection. Our approach is deeply human-centered, we prioritize creating a space where you feel safe, seen, and heard! Whether you're struggling with anxiety, trauma, identity and LGBTQIA+ exploration, life transitions, or family/relationship challenges, our psychologists bring a compassionate and playful energy to help you explore your experiences without judgment.
The Mind Clan Psychology is a warm, inclusive psychology practice designed specifically for young adults aged 18-35. We understand that the journey to self-healing can be complex, and we’re here to support you with authenticity, humor, and connection. Our approach is deeply human-centered, we prioritize creating a space where you feel safe, seen, and heard! Whether you're struggling with anxiety, trauma, identity and LGBTQIA+ exploration, life transitions, or family/relationship challenges, our psychologists bring a compassionate and playful energy to help you explore your experiences without judgment.
(03) 9070 5415 View (03) 9070 5415
Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists
What is Internal Family Systems therapy?
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a type of talk therapy that focuses on sub-personalities, or “families,” within a person, which may be made up of wounded parts and unpleasant emotions like anger and shame. These sub-personalities can come into conflict with each other and with an individual’s core Self, leaving the person feeling detached from positive traits such as the “8 C’s” of confidence, calmness, creativity, clarity, curiosity, courage, compassion, and connectedness. By healing a patient’s wounded parts, a therapist aims to restore balance and bring on positive change.

How does Internal Family Systems therapy work?
An IFS therapist will work with a patient to identify their particular sub-personalities, recognize the emotions powering them, and release them. By doing so, the patient should become more able to address any underlying problems their sub-personalities may have been trying to protect them from. Ultimately, a patient discovers ways to manage internal and external conflicts on their own, through techniques such as relaxation exercises, journaling, and making charts depicting the relationships between their core Self and their distinct parts.

Does Internal Family Systems therapy work?
IFS therapy has been shown to help people address conditions such as depression, anxiety, panic, fears and phobias, trauma, and substance use disorders. Some research has also found that it can help individuals deal with symptoms of physical health conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, such as pain, everyday functioning, depressive feelings, and low self-compassion. There are some conditions for which IFS treatment, specifically discussions of one’s “parts,” may be less appropriate, such as schizophrenia or other states that involve psychosis or paranoia.

How long does Internal Family Systems therapy take?
As with most forms of talk therapy, there is no set duration or end point for IFS therapy. After becoming comfortable with a therapist and the core concepts of IFS, some patients quickly make progress. While experiences vary, most will find that it is a relatively longer-term therapy, involving months and sometimes years of sessions.