Body Image Psychologists and Therapists in Sunshine, VIC

Photo of Brett Mackie, Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Brett Mackie
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Serves Area
My ideal client isn't perfect-they've been through things, lost confidence, or carry pain they rarely speak aloud. They're often high-functioning but exhausted, craving a circuit-breaker. They want more than just symptom relief-they want clarity, connection, and a life that actually feels like theirs. They come with questions like "Is this all there is?" or "Why can't I just move on?" —and they're ready, even if nervously, to do the real work of healing with someone who gets it.
My ideal client isn't perfect-they've been through things, lost confidence, or carry pain they rarely speak aloud. They're often high-functioning but exhausted, craving a circuit-breaker. They want more than just symptom relief-they want clarity, connection, and a life that actually feels like theirs. They come with questions like "Is this all there is?" or "Why can't I just move on?" —and they're ready, even if nervously, to do the real work of healing with someone who gets it.
(03) 7303 3771 View (03) 7303 3771
Photo of Kayla Cutajar, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Kayla Cutajar
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Kayla is a Registered Psychologist and Director of Open Minds Studios. She has experience in working with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, and parenting issues. Kayla enjoys helping people understand themselves and their environments better and to feel more empowered in their lives. She finds joy in seeing clients feel more comfortable in themselves and their relationships. Clients who work with Kayla receive an integrated approach to therapeutic care tailored to their needs and interests.
Kayla is a Registered Psychologist and Director of Open Minds Studios. She has experience in working with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, and parenting issues. Kayla enjoys helping people understand themselves and their environments better and to feel more empowered in their lives. She finds joy in seeing clients feel more comfortable in themselves and their relationships. Clients who work with Kayla receive an integrated approach to therapeutic care tailored to their needs and interests.
(03) 8104 9965 View (03) 8104 9965
Photo of Jess Bernardi, Psychologist, PsychD, MACPA
Jess Bernardi
Psychologist, PsychD, MACPA
Serves Area
I'm a Clinical Psychologist and registered supervisor with experience treating individuals in a wide range of mental health settings. I tailor my clinical skills to meet the unique needs of each individual, ensuring that they benefit as much as possible from the therapeutic experience and achieve richer, fuller and more meaningful lives.
I'm a Clinical Psychologist and registered supervisor with experience treating individuals in a wide range of mental health settings. I tailor my clinical skills to meet the unique needs of each individual, ensuring that they benefit as much as possible from the therapeutic experience and achieve richer, fuller and more meaningful lives.
(03) 9034 8481 View (03) 9034 8481
Photo of Sania Javed, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Sania Javed
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
As a multilingual psychotherapist, I specialise in supporting clients through complex challenges such as trauma, grief, anxiety, substance abuse, body dysmorphia, couples and individual therapy etc. I create a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and understood. Using tailored approaches like PCT, CBT, DBT, Gestalt, Mindfulness, and Art therapy, I aim to empower you to overcome emotional and behavioural difficulties, achieve personal growth, and develop healthier coping mechanisms. My goal is to guide you towards lasting positive change and resilience, helping you find balance and purpose in your life.
As a multilingual psychotherapist, I specialise in supporting clients through complex challenges such as trauma, grief, anxiety, substance abuse, body dysmorphia, couples and individual therapy etc. I create a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and understood. Using tailored approaches like PCT, CBT, DBT, Gestalt, Mindfulness, and Art therapy, I aim to empower you to overcome emotional and behavioural difficulties, achieve personal growth, and develop healthier coping mechanisms. My goal is to guide you towards lasting positive change and resilience, helping you find balance and purpose in your life.
(03) 7303 3603 View (03) 7303 3603
Christina Pitter
Social Worker, MA, AASW
Serves Area
Christina has 20 years experience as a mental health social worker and psychotherapist. She works with people whose lives have been affected by childhood & adult trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family violence, and the impact of identity, family, ethnic and cultural issues on mental health. She has a special interest in supporting clients with chronic and physical health and disability issues. Christina hopes that through therapy, people can develop a greater awareness of their emotions, thoughts, strengths and goals and an overall improvement in their wellbeing and relationships with others.
Christina has 20 years experience as a mental health social worker and psychotherapist. She works with people whose lives have been affected by childhood & adult trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family violence, and the impact of identity, family, ethnic and cultural issues on mental health. She has a special interest in supporting clients with chronic and physical health and disability issues. Christina hopes that through therapy, people can develop a greater awareness of their emotions, thoughts, strengths and goals and an overall improvement in their wellbeing and relationships with others.
(02) 4504 0245 View (02) 4504 0245
Photo of Marie Vakakis, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Marie Vakakis
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Serves Area
Are you feeling worried, overwhelmed, or struggling in your relationship or daily life? Maybe you and your partner are finding it hard to connect, or perhaps you’re facing challenges on your own—feeling stressed, anxious, or like your usual energy has disappeared. When even small tasks or conversations feel like too much, it can be exhausting, and it’s easy to retreat from the world. I understand how difficult this can be, and I’m here to help. Whether you’re facing relationship issues, personal struggles, or family dynamics, I provide a non-judgmental space for individuals, couples, and families to work through their challenges.
Are you feeling worried, overwhelmed, or struggling in your relationship or daily life? Maybe you and your partner are finding it hard to connect, or perhaps you’re facing challenges on your own—feeling stressed, anxious, or like your usual energy has disappeared. When even small tasks or conversations feel like too much, it can be exhausting, and it’s easy to retreat from the world. I understand how difficult this can be, and I’m here to help. Whether you’re facing relationship issues, personal struggles, or family dynamics, I provide a non-judgmental space for individuals, couples, and families to work through their challenges.
(03) 8613 3424 View (03) 8613 3424
Photo of Hassan Bashiri, Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Hassan Bashiri
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Online Only
Change, development, and success is a marathon, not a sprint. My ideal client seeks support to overcome anxiety and self-doubt and improve their overall well-being. They need a non-judgmental space to explore their thoughts and emotions to gain clarity and self-awareness. They aim to build resilience, boost self-confidence, and develop coping strategies for life's challenges. They want to break free from limiting beliefs and create a more fulfilling life, embracing positive changes. Motivated to invest in personal growth, they are ready to take proactive steps towards a happier and more fulfilling future. See You.
Change, development, and success is a marathon, not a sprint. My ideal client seeks support to overcome anxiety and self-doubt and improve their overall well-being. They need a non-judgmental space to explore their thoughts and emotions to gain clarity and self-awareness. They aim to build resilience, boost self-confidence, and develop coping strategies for life's challenges. They want to break free from limiting beliefs and create a more fulfilling life, embracing positive changes. Motivated to invest in personal growth, they are ready to take proactive steps towards a happier and more fulfilling future. See You.
(07) 2801 5094 View (07) 2801 5094
Photo of Geetha Chetty, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Geetha Chetty
Counsellor, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Geetha! I come from a South African- Indian background and have a deep passion to serve others by empowering them to live their best lives. My expertise is working with youth, adults, and families from different socio-economic and cultural backgrounds. I've worked in correctional services, and various community sectors namely, disadvantaged and marginalised youth, AOD, homelessness, unemployment, sexual assault and family violence. I work with a wide range of psychological challenges including, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, sleep issues, anger and addictions.
Hi, I'm Geetha! I come from a South African- Indian background and have a deep passion to serve others by empowering them to live their best lives. My expertise is working with youth, adults, and families from different socio-economic and cultural backgrounds. I've worked in correctional services, and various community sectors namely, disadvantaged and marginalised youth, AOD, homelessness, unemployment, sexual assault and family violence. I work with a wide range of psychological challenges including, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, sleep issues, anger and addictions.
(03) 7302 2085 View (03) 7302 2085
Photo of Dominica Dorning, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dominica Dorning
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi there, I offer online counselling for survivors of trauma, members of the LGBTIQA+ community and folks from diverse cultural backgrounds. We can work together to help you heal and recover from the impacts of trauma, better understand and accept yourself, improve your relationships and live a full and authentic life. I am a Clinical Psychologist with 13 years experience in the trauma field. I enjoy working with people from all walks of life and am passionate about human rights and social justice issues.
Hi there, I offer online counselling for survivors of trauma, members of the LGBTIQA+ community and folks from diverse cultural backgrounds. We can work together to help you heal and recover from the impacts of trauma, better understand and accept yourself, improve your relationships and live a full and authentic life. I am a Clinical Psychologist with 13 years experience in the trauma field. I enjoy working with people from all walks of life and am passionate about human rights and social justice issues.
(03) 7302 2372 View (03) 7302 2372
Photo of Inas Abosh, MC
Inas Abosh
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a qualified Counsellor, specialised in Depression, Relationships, Career, Return to Work, Rehabilitation, and Vocational counselling. I have a Graduate Diploma in Rehabilitation and mental health Counselling from Latrobe University. I am accredited by the Australian Society of Rehabilitation Counsellors (ASORC). Many years experience working with individuals and families, offering support in challenges accompanied by mental health, unemployment, disability and domestic violence.
I am a qualified Counsellor, specialised in Depression, Relationships, Career, Return to Work, Rehabilitation, and Vocational counselling. I have a Graduate Diploma in Rehabilitation and mental health Counselling from Latrobe University. I am accredited by the Australian Society of Rehabilitation Counsellors (ASORC). Many years experience working with individuals and families, offering support in challenges accompanied by mental health, unemployment, disability and domestic violence.
(03) 7303 3921 View (03) 7303 3921
Photo of Zen Tebeje, Counsellor
Zen Tebeje
Counsellor
Serves Area
Zen is a certified Counsellor dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges. With a compassionate and client-centred approach, she provides a safe space for you to explore and overcome your concerns. She specialises in mental health support, offering guidance for issues like depression, anxiety, grief, relationships, life coaching, trauma, and stress management. Additionally, she provides expert career counselling & NDIS support. Zen’s approach is client-centred, creating a personalised plan for your unique needs.
Zen is a certified Counsellor dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges. With a compassionate and client-centred approach, she provides a safe space for you to explore and overcome your concerns. She specialises in mental health support, offering guidance for issues like depression, anxiety, grief, relationships, life coaching, trauma, and stress management. Additionally, she provides expert career counselling & NDIS support. Zen’s approach is client-centred, creating a personalised plan for your unique needs.
(03) 7003 2607 View (03) 7003 2607

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Wren Jablonka, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Wren Jablonka
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Mount Waverley, VIC 3149
Wren loves working with adolescents and young adults to both identify strengths and overcome challenges. With adolescents, Wren strives to create a safe space that promotes autonomy and empowerment, allowing for exploration and growth. Some specific areas Wren is passionate about include anxiety, mood, LGBTQIA+ clients, and neurodiversity.
Wren loves working with adolescents and young adults to both identify strengths and overcome challenges. With adolescents, Wren strives to create a safe space that promotes autonomy and empowerment, allowing for exploration and growth. Some specific areas Wren is passionate about include anxiety, mood, LGBTQIA+ clients, and neurodiversity.
(03) 8771 5224 View (03) 8771 5224
Photo of Kara Lee John, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Kara Lee John
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Edithvale, VIC 3196
I specialise in trauma informed care and have a deep understanding of the complex and long-lasting impacts it can have on you. In some cases, therapy itself can be a source of more trauma. Your safety is my highest priority as we work together and empower you to have a say in how we approach your symptoms. There is no one size fits all and so with your feedback, we will find the best suited interventions for you.
I specialise in trauma informed care and have a deep understanding of the complex and long-lasting impacts it can have on you. In some cases, therapy itself can be a source of more trauma. Your safety is my highest priority as we work together and empower you to have a say in how we approach your symptoms. There is no one size fits all and so with your feedback, we will find the best suited interventions for you.
(03) 7500 5629 View (03) 7500 5629
Photo of Amy-Jane Evans, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Amy-Jane Evans
Counsellor, ACA-L2
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I help those challenged with mental health, change, stressors, trauma and those looking to level up in their life in domains of wellness, performance, fitness, lifestyle and career. Whether you're struggling to cope or looking to get the most out of your life, it's not uncommon to feel stuck, get in your own way, or not know where to start. You might decide to work with me if you need that objective space and time where you can work in a safe, collaborative, understanding space to heal your past & come up with practical solutions to improve your capacity for coping, developing your mindset and optimising performance.
I help those challenged with mental health, change, stressors, trauma and those looking to level up in their life in domains of wellness, performance, fitness, lifestyle and career. Whether you're struggling to cope or looking to get the most out of your life, it's not uncommon to feel stuck, get in your own way, or not know where to start. You might decide to work with me if you need that objective space and time where you can work in a safe, collaborative, understanding space to heal your past & come up with practical solutions to improve your capacity for coping, developing your mindset and optimising performance.
(03) 4236 7435 View (03) 4236 7435
Photo of Brydan Xavier - The Liminal Clinic, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
The Liminal Clinic
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Prahran, VIC 3181
You may be feeling exhausted from constantly masking or trying to hold everything together while struggling underneath. We support adults experiencing anxiety, trauma, burnout, ADHD burnout, autistic overwhelm, identity concerns, emotional exhaustion, and relationship difficulties. We are neurodiversity-affirming, LGBTQIA+ inclusive, TGDNB-affirming, and welcoming of kink, BDSM, furry, HIV+, sex worker, and non-traditional relationship communities. We provide affirming therapy, ADHD assessment, neurodivergence screening, WPATH assessments, EMDR, and EMDR 2.0.
You may be feeling exhausted from constantly masking or trying to hold everything together while struggling underneath. We support adults experiencing anxiety, trauma, burnout, ADHD burnout, autistic overwhelm, identity concerns, emotional exhaustion, and relationship difficulties. We are neurodiversity-affirming, LGBTQIA+ inclusive, TGDNB-affirming, and welcoming of kink, BDSM, furry, HIV+, sex worker, and non-traditional relationship communities. We provide affirming therapy, ADHD assessment, neurodivergence screening, WPATH assessments, EMDR, and EMDR 2.0.
(03) 7042 9820 View (03) 7042 9820
Photo of Kirsten Perrins, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Kirsten Perrins
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Panton Hill, VIC 3759
Waitlist for new clients
Kirsten's specific areas of interest include autism, ADHD, trauma and Eating Disorders. Her work is informed by evidence-based practice, largely working from a trauma-informed, attachment-focused, narrative and neuroaffirming perspective. Neurodevelopmental assessments are also available, undertaken from an affirming perspective, for ages 5+.
Kirsten's specific areas of interest include autism, ADHD, trauma and Eating Disorders. Her work is informed by evidence-based practice, largely working from a trauma-informed, attachment-focused, narrative and neuroaffirming perspective. Neurodevelopmental assessments are also available, undertaken from an affirming perspective, for ages 5+.
(03) 8400 0307 View (03) 8400 0307
Photo of Jessica Willcocks, Counsellor, PACFA
Jessica Willcocks
Counsellor, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VIC 3121
Hi! I’m Jess Willcocks and I’m here to be able to assist you to live your best life. I say that partially joking, but I am here to work with individuals who want to have a deeper understanding of themselves and their behaviours. I want to help you to enrich your life and have the life you have always wanted. Together we will foster your self-awareness, explore your goals and dreams and unlock your full potential to create lasting and meaningful change.
Hi! I’m Jess Willcocks and I’m here to be able to assist you to live your best life. I say that partially joking, but I am here to work with individuals who want to have a deeper understanding of themselves and their behaviours. I want to help you to enrich your life and have the life you have always wanted. Together we will foster your self-awareness, explore your goals and dreams and unlock your full potential to create lasting and meaningful change.
0478 407 339 View 0478 407 339
Photo of Dr Jodie Mechielsen, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Jodie Mechielsen
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
You may be experiencing an eating disorder or other eating/exercise/ body image concerns or struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship difficulties, PTSD, perfectionism, emotional challenges, or tough life transitions.
I offer therapy Australia-wide via telehealth. I use a range of approaches, adapted to your needs, including EMDR, Schema Therapy, Specialist Supportive Clinical Management, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. My preferred therapies are those that support you to address the deep, underlying difficulties that are still impacting your life now.
You may be experiencing an eating disorder or other eating/exercise/ body image concerns or struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship difficulties, PTSD, perfectionism, emotional challenges, or tough life transitions.
I offer therapy Australia-wide via telehealth. I use a range of approaches, adapted to your needs, including EMDR, Schema Therapy, Specialist Supportive Clinical Management, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. My preferred therapies are those that support you to address the deep, underlying difficulties that are still impacting your life now.
(03) 5910 7511 View (03) 5910 7511
Photo of Elizabeth Holmquest - Elizabeth Holmquest - Paper Daisy Therapy , Social Worker, AMHSW
Elizabeth Holmquest - Paper Daisy Therapy
Social Worker, AMHSW
Online Only
Online Only - Hello! I'm Elizabeth. Are you struggling with family of origin issues from the past and need support? I work with people who have had experiences including (but not limited to) sexual, physical and emotional abuse and/or neglect. You're not alone. Recovery is possible. I support people to achieve the goals and intentions most important to them.
Online Only - Hello! I'm Elizabeth. Are you struggling with family of origin issues from the past and need support? I work with people who have had experiences including (but not limited to) sexual, physical and emotional abuse and/or neglect. You're not alone. Recovery is possible. I support people to achieve the goals and intentions most important to them.
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Photo of Patricia Martins, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Patricia Martins
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Carlton, VIC 3053
Hi, I’m Patricia Martins, a Portuguese and Spanish speaking psychologist who helps immigrants find their place in Australia. I know how hard it can be to leave your home country and start a new life in a different culture. I’ve been there myself. That’s why I decided to dedicate my career to helping people like you, who are going through a similar journey. Whether you are struggling with emotional distress, anxiety, loneliness, or any other issue, I’m here to support you and help you thrive in your new environment.
Hi, I’m Patricia Martins, a Portuguese and Spanish speaking psychologist who helps immigrants find their place in Australia. I know how hard it can be to leave your home country and start a new life in a different culture. I’ve been there myself. That’s why I decided to dedicate my career to helping people like you, who are going through a similar journey. Whether you are struggling with emotional distress, anxiety, loneliness, or any other issue, I’m here to support you and help you thrive in your new environment.
(03) 9070 5328 View (03) 9070 5328

See more therapy options for Sunshine

Body Image Therapists
How does body image affect mental health?
Poor body image can influence mental health because it can reduce self-esteem and decrease functioning in other areas of one's life. Negative body image may hinder someone's ability to perform daily tasks, including professional and social responsibilities, because they may feel self-conscious or shame surrounding their appearance; a desire to change one's body as a result of negative body image can also trigger behaviors such as extreme dieting, excessive exercise, or obsessive social media comparison. Poor body image is associated with a number of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, although many people experience negative body image even in the absence of meeting the diagnostic criteria for any mental health disorders.

What does it mean to have a positive body image?
Body image refers to how one internally perceives their appearance and internally "talks" to themself about their body. Positive body image is therefore indicative of a positive perception of one's self and positive internal self-talk that underscores one's strengths. People who have good body image often have higher self-esteem, self-worth, and self-confidence, and they also often recognise how external factors, such as social media or relationship patterns, can influence body image. While body image can change at different life stages and in response to various triggers, practicing self-acceptance and a body-positive mindset can help maintain a more stable sense of positive body image.

Is body image the same as self-esteem?
Body image and self-esteem are often related, but they are distinct concepts. Self-esteem is a broader term that can be shaped by a number of factors outside of body image, including one's functioning at school or in the workplace; it refers to one's capacity to handle various life challenges. Poor body image can be one way in which one's self-esteem is reduced. Reduced self-esteem as a result of poor body image can cause individuals to feel negative about their appearance, withdraw from social interactions, and/or rely on harmful behaviours as a coping mechanism. A "body positive" approach to body image therapy is therefore often used to encourage a more positive view of one's self and thus encourage better self-esteem.

What type of therapy is best to foster a positive body image?
The type of therapy best suited to improve body image depends on each person, as there is not a single therapy specific to body image improvement. That said, many individuals with poor body image benefit from therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based therapy. CBT can be used to help challenge distorted or negative thoughts about one's body, while ACT and mindfulness practices can facilitate a more positive body image through self-acceptance and identification of one's personal strengths. Regardless of treatment type, clients should look for body image therapists who encourage the development of a sense of self outside of their external appearance and help clients reduce unwanted behaviours developed as a result of poor self-esteem, such as dieting or disordered eating patterns.