Domestic Abuse Psychologists and Therapists in Southbank, VIC

Photo of Emma Baxter, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Emma Baxter
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Serves Area
• Understanding of non physical abuse and coercive control • Explicit support for low or no contact decisions • Client paced, trauma informed care
I work with adults whose lives have been shaped by abusive family systems or controlling relationships. Many of the people I support grew up in environments where their needs were ignored, minimised, or punished, or they have found themselves in relationships marked by emotional harm, manipulation, or coercive control. My approach to counselling is trauma informed, compassionate, and grounded in respect for your autonomy. I believe healing comes from being supported to understand what has happened. Over time, these experiences can deeply impact self trust, boundaries, and the ability to feel safe in relationships
• Understanding of non physical abuse and coercive control • Explicit support for low or no contact decisions • Client paced, trauma informed care
I work with adults whose lives have been shaped by abusive family systems or controlling relationships. Many of the people I support grew up in environments where their needs were ignored, minimised, or punished, or they have found themselves in relationships marked by emotional harm, manipulation, or coercive control. My approach to counselling is trauma informed, compassionate, and grounded in respect for your autonomy. I believe healing comes from being supported to understand what has happened. Over time, these experiences can deeply impact self trust, boundaries, and the ability to feel safe in relationships
0428 258 701 x61 View 0428 258 701 x61
Photo of Charlene Ma - Charlene's Counselling Room, Counsellor, MPsych, PACFA
Charlene's Counselling Room
Counsellor, MPsych, PACFA
Serves Area
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, sadness, or self-doubt, even when you're trying your best to keep things together? Perhaps you feel a deep sense that something is out of balance, and you're longing for inner peace and more fulfilling relationships. I deeply understand that taking the step to seek support requires courage, and I’m here to offer a gentle, supportive space where you feel genuinely heard and valued.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, sadness, or self-doubt, even when you're trying your best to keep things together? Perhaps you feel a deep sense that something is out of balance, and you're longing for inner peace and more fulfilling relationships. I deeply understand that taking the step to seek support requires courage, and I’m here to offer a gentle, supportive space where you feel genuinely heard and valued.
0451 947 206 View 0451 947 206
Photo of Estefania Tello Arce, MPsych
Estefania Tello Arce
Verified Verified
Online Only
If you are already checking this, it means that a part of you is ready to be transformed, I´m here to assist you in that process. My most important objective is to provide you with a safe and professional space to go to the roots of your symptoms, not only the surface. In that way, changes being made are most likely to remain.
If you are already checking this, it means that a part of you is ready to be transformed, I´m here to assist you in that process. My most important objective is to provide you with a safe and professional space to go to the roots of your symptoms, not only the surface. In that way, changes being made are most likely to remain.
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Photo of Anastasia Auld, Counsellor, PACFA
Anastasia Auld
Counsellor, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Do you feel stuck in the same relationship patterns - whether you’re in a relationship or single? You might feel drawn to unavailable partners, stuck in the same arguments, or choosing people who can’t meet you emotionally. These patterns are changeable, and therapy is where that shift begins.
Do you feel stuck in the same relationship patterns - whether you’re in a relationship or single? You might feel drawn to unavailable partners, stuck in the same arguments, or choosing people who can’t meet you emotionally. These patterns are changeable, and therapy is where that shift begins.
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Photo of Michael Elwan, Social Worker, AASW
Michael Elwan
Social Worker, AASW
Online Only
Many of the people I work with are capable, thoughtful, and exhausted from holding it together for a long time. They live with anxiety, grief, the long aftermath of trauma, or the quiet disconnection that comes from years of carrying more than felt sustainable. Couples come looking for somewhere to put down the weight of recurring conflict, distance, or ruptures that have not healed on their own. Many have already had therapy that did not quite reach them. They want a practitioner whose understanding of what they are carrying does not stop at the textbook.
Many of the people I work with are capable, thoughtful, and exhausted from holding it together for a long time. They live with anxiety, grief, the long aftermath of trauma, or the quiet disconnection that comes from years of carrying more than felt sustainable. Couples come looking for somewhere to put down the weight of recurring conflict, distance, or ruptures that have not healed on their own. Many have already had therapy that did not quite reach them. They want a practitioner whose understanding of what they are carrying does not stop at the textbook.
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Photo of Helen Werts - RMB Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
RMB Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Online Only
The key to successful therapy is the therapeutic relationship you and I develop over time. I know that you need to be seen, heard, validated and be able to trust me so I can provide you a safe trauma-informed care and practice. This model focuses on providing you with a safe space to explore and understand your life. I ask 'What happened to you?' and I bear witness to your story. I am a Level 3 Internal Family Systems Therapist, EMDR Consultant (in training), and a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (in training Advanced). On occasions, I am also Program Assistant on IFSI trainings in Australia.
The key to successful therapy is the therapeutic relationship you and I develop over time. I know that you need to be seen, heard, validated and be able to trust me so I can provide you a safe trauma-informed care and practice. This model focuses on providing you with a safe space to explore and understand your life. I ask 'What happened to you?' and I bear witness to your story. I am a Level 3 Internal Family Systems Therapist, EMDR Consultant (in training), and a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (in training Advanced). On occasions, I am also Program Assistant on IFSI trainings in Australia.
(03) 8372 0563 View (03) 8372 0563
Photo of Aish Nair, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Aish Nair
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Aish (She/her) has experience working with people across the lifespan and from diverse backgrounds, presenting with issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, trauma and personality disorders. She has extensive experience working with young people, particularly those with complex needs. She is particularly interested in trauma-based work. She uses CBT, DBT, ACT and Mindfulness-based practices. She builds honest, open and empathetic relationships with her clients. She has a commitment to collaborating with clients in a non-judgmental way to help them build a life worth living.
Aish (She/her) has experience working with people across the lifespan and from diverse backgrounds, presenting with issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, trauma and personality disorders. She has extensive experience working with young people, particularly those with complex needs. She is particularly interested in trauma-based work. She uses CBT, DBT, ACT and Mindfulness-based practices. She builds honest, open and empathetic relationships with her clients. She has a commitment to collaborating with clients in a non-judgmental way to help them build a life worth living.
(03) 7003 2466 View (03) 7003 2466

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Karen Sri Thomas, Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
Karen Sri Thomas
Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
1 Endorsed
South Yarra, VIC 3141
Sometimes memories of family violence or childhood abuse can further complicate your situation, making you feel isolated and disconnected from others.
As an experienced, trauma-informed, psychotherapist, I help clients connect with their emotional & psychological needs, and attune deeply and holistically with themselves and what they're going through. You'll be supported in pausing & listening to your whole self moment-by-moment, at a pace that's right for you, and in experiential, bodily ways.
Sometimes memories of family violence or childhood abuse can further complicate your situation, making you feel isolated and disconnected from others.
As an experienced, trauma-informed, psychotherapist, I help clients connect with their emotional & psychological needs, and attune deeply and holistically with themselves and what they're going through. You'll be supported in pausing & listening to your whole self moment-by-moment, at a pace that's right for you, and in experiential, bodily ways.
(03) 7500 5598 View (03) 7500 5598
Photo of Dr Rashika Perera Gomez, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Rashika Perera Gomez
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Bayswater, VIC 3153
Focus areas include stress, bullying, third culture issues, domestic abuse, separation, parenting, postpartum, and life transitions.
I’m Dr Rashika Perera Gomez, Clinical Psychologist and founder of Open Mind Psych. I hold a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a PhD from the University of Melbourne, and have been in private practice since 2010. With over 15 years’ experience and a research background, I offer compassionate, evidence-based therapy for individuals and couples. I’ve worked at the University of Melbourne, Royal Children’s Hospital, Monash Medical Centre, and Foundation House. Sessions are available in Bayswater, Croydon (VIC), or via telehealth. Medicare, TAC, WorkCover, and Private clients accepted.
Focus areas include stress, bullying, third culture issues, domestic abuse, separation, parenting, postpartum, and life transitions.
I’m Dr Rashika Perera Gomez, Clinical Psychologist and founder of Open Mind Psych. I hold a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a PhD from the University of Melbourne, and have been in private practice since 2010. With over 15 years’ experience and a research background, I offer compassionate, evidence-based therapy for individuals and couples. I’ve worked at the University of Melbourne, Royal Children’s Hospital, Monash Medical Centre, and Foundation House. Sessions are available in Bayswater, Croydon (VIC), or via telehealth. Medicare, TAC, WorkCover, and Private clients accepted.
(03) 8413 7375 View (03) 8413 7375
Photo of Fiona Cheung, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Fiona Cheung
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Vermont, VIC 3133
No matter your age or where you are in life, there are times when things can feel overwhelming or uncertain. I offer both in-person and online counselling to support you through these challenges. In our sessions, I aim to create a warm, safe, and non-judgmental space where you can speak openly and explore what’s been going on for you at your own pace. Whether you are dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, or family challenges, I am here to walk alongside you with care and empathy.
No matter your age or where you are in life, there are times when things can feel overwhelming or uncertain. I offer both in-person and online counselling to support you through these challenges. In our sessions, I aim to create a warm, safe, and non-judgmental space where you can speak openly and explore what’s been going on for you at your own pace. Whether you are dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, or family challenges, I am here to walk alongside you with care and empathy.
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Photo of Audrey Margaret Sarmiento - Enrei Counselling, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Enrei Counselling
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, trauma, grief or identity struggles? You don’t have to face it alone. I’m Audrey, the counsellor behind Enrei Counselling, providing trauma-informed, culturally sensitive support to adults across Australia. Together, we’ll create a safe, compassionate space to gently explore your emotions and attachment experiences. Through deepening emotional awareness, we’ll heal relational wounds, strengthen your connections, and build emotional resilience. You can expect greater emotional insight, healing from past hurts, practical tools for managing anxiety and grief, and support that honours your identity.
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, trauma, grief or identity struggles? You don’t have to face it alone. I’m Audrey, the counsellor behind Enrei Counselling, providing trauma-informed, culturally sensitive support to adults across Australia. Together, we’ll create a safe, compassionate space to gently explore your emotions and attachment experiences. Through deepening emotional awareness, we’ll heal relational wounds, strengthen your connections, and build emotional resilience. You can expect greater emotional insight, healing from past hurts, practical tools for managing anxiety and grief, and support that honours your identity.
(02) 5133 6270 View (02) 5133 6270
Photo of Stefanie Morgan - Space Wellness (NSW) - Stef Morgan, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Space Wellness (NSW) - Stef Morgan
Counsellor, ACA-L1
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Do you feel somewhat stuck? Perhaps overwhelm, physical pain or yearning for something different? Maybe you'd simply like to do better? Why not consider a coupling of counselling, clinical hypnotherapy and strategic psychotherapy? Unaware, you may be running outdated patterns which are at odds with the YOU of today, making it difficult to navigate and effect change. I use permissive Ericksonian hypnotherapy (particularly the Gordian Pillars) to uncover well-worn patterns of stuckness, then gently infuse the subconscious with alternate options. Safe, effective, gentle and life-changing.
Do you feel somewhat stuck? Perhaps overwhelm, physical pain or yearning for something different? Maybe you'd simply like to do better? Why not consider a coupling of counselling, clinical hypnotherapy and strategic psychotherapy? Unaware, you may be running outdated patterns which are at odds with the YOU of today, making it difficult to navigate and effect change. I use permissive Ericksonian hypnotherapy (particularly the Gordian Pillars) to uncover well-worn patterns of stuckness, then gently infuse the subconscious with alternate options. Safe, effective, gentle and life-changing.
(02) 5566 2525 View (02) 5566 2525
Photo of Trudy Cahill, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Trudy Cahill
Counsellor, ACA-L1
1 Endorsed
Hampton Park, VIC 3976
I'm here to help you heal from trauma or abuse, support child development and parenting, strengthen relationships, guide ASD parenting, and walk with you through grief, bereavement or domestic violence recovery.
I help people experiencing emotional distress, trauma or grief, or striving to create a nurturing home amid complex family dynamics. You may feel overwhelmed, uncertain and longing for relief. You need to reduce distress, improve communication, build confidence, resilience and stronger relationships. You want practical strategies, gentle insights and compassionate guidance that honours your experience and empowers you to find balance, hope and meaning. We work at your pace. You may also be supporting loved ones with autism or ADHD; together we tailor routines and coping tools to reclaim wellbeing and connection.
I'm here to help you heal from trauma or abuse, support child development and parenting, strengthen relationships, guide ASD parenting, and walk with you through grief, bereavement or domestic violence recovery.
I help people experiencing emotional distress, trauma or grief, or striving to create a nurturing home amid complex family dynamics. You may feel overwhelmed, uncertain and longing for relief. You need to reduce distress, improve communication, build confidence, resilience and stronger relationships. You want practical strategies, gentle insights and compassionate guidance that honours your experience and empowers you to find balance, hope and meaning. We work at your pace. You may also be supporting loved ones with autism or ADHD; together we tailor routines and coping tools to reclaim wellbeing and connection.
(03) 8771 5552 View (03) 8771 5552
Photo of Srividya (Sri) Ravichandran - SoulShine Counselling, Counsellor, ACA-L2
SoulShine Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I support individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, complex trauma, relationship changes, family violence, stress, parenting challenges, and life transitions.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming, and it can be difficult to carry everything on your own. Having a space where you feel heard and understood can make a meaningful difference. I’m Sri, an ACA Level 2 registered counsellor and founder of SoulShine Counselling. I offer a supportive space to explore what you are going through at a pace that feels right for you. My approach is trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming, and grounded in respect, empathy, and collaboration. I provide counselling primarily in English, and can also offer sessions in Tamil, Kannada, and Hindi. Please reach out if you would like to explore counselling.
I support individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, complex trauma, relationship changes, family violence, stress, parenting challenges, and life transitions.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming, and it can be difficult to carry everything on your own. Having a space where you feel heard and understood can make a meaningful difference. I’m Sri, an ACA Level 2 registered counsellor and founder of SoulShine Counselling. I offer a supportive space to explore what you are going through at a pace that feels right for you. My approach is trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming, and grounded in respect, empathy, and collaboration. I provide counselling primarily in English, and can also offer sessions in Tamil, Kannada, and Hindi. Please reach out if you would like to explore counselling.
(03) 8771 4425 View (03) 8771 4425
Photo of Patricia Lewis, Psychotherapist, PsychD, ACA-L4
Patricia Lewis
Psychotherapist, PsychD, ACA-L4
Online Only
Are you broken-hearted? Find hope and healing as you learn to love yourself again. Has trauma visited your life? Reclaim your life from the effects of hurt and pain and rediscover your hopes and dreams for a hope-filled future.
Are you broken-hearted? Find hope and healing as you learn to love yourself again. Has trauma visited your life? Reclaim your life from the effects of hurt and pain and rediscover your hopes and dreams for a hope-filled future.
(02) 9100 0165 View (02) 9100 0165
Photo of Kat O'Mara, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Kat O'Mara
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
McKinnon, VIC 3204
I work with adults recovering from trauma, family dysfunction, and domestic or emotional abuse.
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 work with adults recovering from trauma, family dysfunction, and domestic or emotional abuse.
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.
(03) 7500 5605 View (03) 7500 5605
Photo of Carvin L Winans, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Carvin L Winans
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Croydon, VIC 3136
People across the lifespan that suffer from anxiety, ADHD, ASD, wanting to improve in social skills and master emotional regulation. I also work with couples and families.
People across the lifespan that suffer from anxiety, ADHD, ASD, wanting to improve in social skills and master emotional regulation. I also work with couples and families.
(03) 8203 5414 View (03) 8203 5414
Photo of Tania Curlis, Social Worker, AMHSW
Tania Curlis
Social Worker, AMHSW
Patterson Lakes, VIC 3197
We all feel stuck sometimes, making sense of ongoing grief, loss, or life’s uncertainty. Do you want more time, freedom, to feel heard or to make sense of the 'right' next steps for you? You may want to feel you have work that is more meaningful, happier relationships, or to resolve current or past difficult experiences. It would be a privilege to support you through the challenges and changes you are experiencing in your life, making sense of it together. Therapy is a partnership of courage; a willingness to step into the unknown, to find a more satisfying way of living and understanding life and self.
We all feel stuck sometimes, making sense of ongoing grief, loss, or life’s uncertainty. Do you want more time, freedom, to feel heard or to make sense of the 'right' next steps for you? You may want to feel you have work that is more meaningful, happier relationships, or to resolve current or past difficult experiences. It would be a privilege to support you through the challenges and changes you are experiencing in your life, making sense of it together. Therapy is a partnership of courage; a willingness to step into the unknown, to find a more satisfying way of living and understanding life and self.
(03) 7003 2843 View (03) 7003 2843
Photo of Neha Gazdar, Counsellor, PACFA
Neha Gazdar
Counsellor, PACFA
Online Only
As a mental health counselor with experience in the domestic violence sector and in schools, I will work with clients who have a range of issues and needs.
Specializing in challenging life transitions and trauma, I offer a compassionate and empathetic approach to counseling. I prioritize safe spaces for clients to share, with personalized treatment plans tailored to meet unique needs and goals. Whether it's anxiety, depression, or relationship issues, I'm here to guide you towards healing and growth.
As a mental health counselor with experience in the domestic violence sector and in schools, I will work with clients who have a range of issues and needs.
Specializing in challenging life transitions and trauma, I offer a compassionate and empathetic approach to counseling. I prioritize safe spaces for clients to share, with personalized treatment plans tailored to meet unique needs and goals. Whether it's anxiety, depression, or relationship issues, I'm here to guide you towards healing and growth.
(03) 7303 3604 View (03) 7303 3604
Photo of Jana Fugaro, Social Worker, AASW
Jana Fugaro
Social Worker, AASW
Melbourne, VIC 3000
Helping with Relationships & Communication, Anxiety & Depression, Trauma & Abuse including Family Violence, Stress & Life Transitions, Grief & Loss & Infertility struggles.
I take a holistic approach to my counselling support considering the person's whole wellbeing integrating all levels including physical, emotional, social & spiritual. I have extensive experience working with Women & Families covering Parenting struggles, Family Violence, Grief & Loss & am an ANZICA approved Fertility Counsellor well versed in IVF.
Helping with Relationships & Communication, Anxiety & Depression, Trauma & Abuse including Family Violence, Stress & Life Transitions, Grief & Loss & Infertility struggles.
I take a holistic approach to my counselling support considering the person's whole wellbeing integrating all levels including physical, emotional, social & spiritual. I have extensive experience working with Women & Families covering Parenting struggles, Family Violence, Grief & Loss & am an ANZICA approved Fertility Counsellor well versed in IVF.
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Domestic Abuse Therapists
What are the most effective ways to recover from domestic abuse?
Leaving an abusive relationship requires tremendous courage, so survivors in treatment should recognise that they have already completed the most important step. Still, the trauma of physical or emotional abuse can be difficult to process and overcome. Therapy can help survivors process trauma, grief, and difficult emotions, treat relevant mental health symptoms, and create a new framework for boundaries and relationships in the future. For some, support groups can also be an invaluable outlet for healing.

When should an individual seek help for domestic abuse?
Victims of intimate partner violence should seek help immediately. It can take substantial time, planning, energy, and courage to leave an abusive relationship, but starting the process—by seeking therapy, calling the domestic violence hotline, or simply confiding in a loved one—will help them get there. Those who have left abusive relationships but haven’t sought treatment can also greatly benefit from therapy to process and heal from the experience.

What are the consequences of staying in an abusive relationship?
Remaining in an abusive relationship has serious repercussions. In addition to the ongoing threat of physical danger and emotional abuse, research shows that intimate partner violence is associated with a range of mental health disorders including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and substance abuse. Therefore it’s important for individuals in an abusive relationship to seek help as soon as possible.

How can you get domestic abuse treatment for someone else?
It can be very complicated to identify and leave an abusive relationship; barriers include the threat of violence, financial instability, and family pressures. Those concerned about a loved one in an abusive relationship should talk to them about the situation, provide them with resources such as the domestic violence hotline, and introduce the idea of seeing a therapist due to their concern for the person’s safety and well-being.