Depression Psychologists and Therapists in Sunshine, VIC

Photo of Phuong Tran, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Phuong Tran
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
She specialises in helping individuals navigate emotional, mental, and psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma & PTSD, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions, etc.
With extensive experience in public mental health, schools, hospitals, counselling centers, private practice, EAP services, psycho-oncology, palliative care, and hospice care, Phuong brings deep expertise to even the most complex situations. This diverse background ensures each client receives personalized and effective care.
She specialises in helping individuals navigate emotional, mental, and psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma & PTSD, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions, etc.
With extensive experience in public mental health, schools, hospitals, counselling centers, private practice, EAP services, psycho-oncology, palliative care, and hospice care, Phuong brings deep expertise to even the most complex situations. This diverse background ensures each client receives personalized and effective care.
(03) 7302 8767 View (03) 7302 8767
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 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.
My practice relies on Evidence-Based, Person-Centred, Solution Focused and Emotionally Focused approaches, and I believe in working hand in hand with clients to overcome difficulties and emotional disturbances during the therapeutic process. I understand that everyone comes to therapy with different experiences and expectations.
I am a qualified Counsellor, specialised in Depression, Relationships, Career, Return to Work, Rehabilitation, and Vocational counselling.
My practice relies on Evidence-Based, Person-Centred, Solution Focused and Emotionally Focused approaches, and I believe in working hand in hand with clients to overcome difficulties and emotional disturbances during the therapeutic process. I understand that everyone comes to therapy with different experiences and expectations.
(03) 7303 3921 View (03) 7303 3921
Christina Pitter
Social Worker, MA, AASW
Serves Area
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.
Christina has studied meditation & mindfulness-based therapies, self-compassion therapy and non-violent communication. She has worked at the Centre Against Sexual Assault, Women’s Social Support Services (RWH), Pregnancy Advisory Services, the Foundation for Torture and Trauma and as a fertility counsellor with individuals and couples.
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.
Christina has studied meditation & mindfulness-based therapies, self-compassion therapy and non-violent communication. She has worked at the Centre Against Sexual Assault, Women’s Social Support Services (RWH), Pregnancy Advisory Services, the Foundation for Torture and Trauma and as a fertility counsellor with individuals and couples.
(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 Dominica Dorning, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dominica Dorning
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I use my training and experience to help people recover from traumatic experiences and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
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.
I use my training and experience to help people recover from traumatic experiences and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
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 Mary Ta, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Mary Ta
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Using evidence-based practices, I support individuals (aged 10 years and above) for a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, burnout, stress, trauma, grief and loss, life transitions, and relationship issues - among other issues listed below.
I emphasise safety, warmth, and reliability in my work. Sessions are structured with you in mind, focusing on your strengths, resources, and feedback. Whether you're looking for practical strategies, deeper self-understanding, or simply a place to reflect, I aim to meet you at where you're at.
Using evidence-based practices, I support individuals (aged 10 years and above) for a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, burnout, stress, trauma, grief and loss, life transitions, and relationship issues - among other issues listed below.
I emphasise safety, warmth, and reliability in my work. Sessions are structured with you in mind, focusing on your strengths, resources, and feedback. Whether you're looking for practical strategies, deeper self-understanding, or simply a place to reflect, I aim to meet you at where you're at.
(03) 8566 7768 View (03) 8566 7768
Photo of Bandai Choi, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Bandai Choi
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Are you feeling overwhelmed by complex trauma or navigating life as a neurodivergent adult? Many of my clients seek targeted support for emotional dysregulation, attachment struggles, or the weight of unmanaged trauma. They require a therapeutic space that is not only evidence-based but neuro-affirming, culturally responsive, and practical. They want clear steps and a clinician who explains the "why" behind every intervention. We help by prioritizing stabilization, moving at a pace that ensures psychological safety while building usable strategies for daily life.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by complex trauma or navigating life as a neurodivergent adult? Many of my clients seek targeted support for emotional dysregulation, attachment struggles, or the weight of unmanaged trauma. They require a therapeutic space that is not only evidence-based but neuro-affirming, culturally responsive, and practical. They want clear steps and a clinician who explains the "why" behind every intervention. We help by prioritizing stabilization, moving at a pace that ensures psychological safety while building usable strategies for daily life.
(03) 8771 4314 View (03) 8771 4314
Photo of Kayla Ta, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Kayla Ta
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
She works with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, neurodivergence, self-esteem, parenting and family issues, life transitions, and stress.
Kayla's approach is compassionate, curious, and practical. She draws on modalities such as ACT, CBT, DBT, schema therapy, mindfulness, parts work, and psychodynamic therapy. She has experience supporting clients and families navigating neurodiversity, trauma, and family or school challenges, working collaboratively to make daily life more manageable.
She works with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, neurodivergence, self-esteem, parenting and family issues, life transitions, and stress.
Kayla's approach is compassionate, curious, and practical. She draws on modalities such as ACT, CBT, DBT, schema therapy, mindfulness, parts work, and psychodynamic therapy. She has experience supporting clients and families navigating neurodiversity, trauma, and family or school challenges, working collaboratively to make daily life more manageable.
0478 218 789 View 0478 218 789
Photo of Kayla Cutajar, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Kayla Cutajar
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
She has experience in working with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, and parenting issues.
Her clinic hours vary from Monday-Saturday.
She has experience in working with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, and parenting issues.
Her clinic hours vary from Monday-Saturday.
(03) 8104 9965 View (03) 8104 9965
Photo of Cass Kozulin, Social Worker, AASW
Cass Kozulin
Social Worker, AASW
Serves Area
Hi I'm Cass! I am passionate about working with people to help create a happier and more fulfilled life. I believe that everyone has the potential create positive change despite adversity; we just need the tools to be able do so.
Hi I'm Cass! I am passionate about working with people to help create a happier and more fulfilled life. I believe that everyone has the potential create positive change despite adversity; we just need the tools to be able do so.
(03) 7003 2538 View (03) 7003 2538
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
Photo of Renee Hughes, Social Worker, AMHSW
Renee Hughes
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Parent Infant Mental Health clinician and Family Report Writer with over 20 years experience working in the field. I work mostly with adults experiencing mental health issues and provide a safe space for people to work through their difficulties. My goal is to help people to understand themselves on a deeper level and have better functioning relationships and a happier life! I also write private reports for the Family Court (62G & Child Impact Reports) and can support and coach individuals going through this process.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Parent Infant Mental Health clinician and Family Report Writer with over 20 years experience working in the field. I work mostly with adults experiencing mental health issues and provide a safe space for people to work through their difficulties. My goal is to help people to understand themselves on a deeper level and have better functioning relationships and a happier life! I also write private reports for the Family Court (62G & Child Impact Reports) and can support and coach individuals going through this process.
(03) 8595 4462 View (03) 8595 4462
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 Michelle Phan, Social Worker, MA
Michelle Phan
Social Worker, MA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
For many, the imagined future can become clouded by reproductive loss, infertility, depression or anxiety during pregnancy and postpartum, or a difficult transition to parenthood.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker who supports clients throughout their reproductive journeys and the challenges that may arise along the way. I am passionate about empowering people to make informed reproductive choices and helping them navigate infertility, birth trauma, perinatal loss (including stillbirth, miscarriage, and termination), abortion grief, adoption, perinatal mental health concerns, and the transition to parenthood. I work hard to cultivate a trusting, authentic, and collaborative therapeutic relationship to support meaningful and sustainable treatment goals.
For many, the imagined future can become clouded by reproductive loss, infertility, depression or anxiety during pregnancy and postpartum, or a difficult transition to parenthood.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker who supports clients throughout their reproductive journeys and the challenges that may arise along the way. I am passionate about empowering people to make informed reproductive choices and helping them navigate infertility, birth trauma, perinatal loss (including stillbirth, miscarriage, and termination), abortion grief, adoption, perinatal mental health concerns, and the transition to parenthood. I work hard to cultivate a trusting, authentic, and collaborative therapeutic relationship to support meaningful and sustainable treatment goals.
(03) 9958 8772 View (03) 9958 8772
Photo of Pamela Muvezwa - Sanctuary Space Counseling, Counsellor, ACA-L3
Sanctuary Space Counseling
Counsellor, ACA-L3
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Pam is a qualified counsellor with wealth of experience in the areas of addictions,trauma,mental health ,domestic family violence, sexual assault and supervision. Pam provides coaching,mentoring, debriefing support to navigate challenging situations and enhance the emotional,mental and general psychological wellbeing of individuals and their loved ones. With over 15 years of experience under her belt working through a trauma informed lens with clients,Pam is passionate about bringing hope through acceptance,value and belonging .
Pam is a qualified counsellor with wealth of experience in the areas of addictions,trauma,mental health ,domestic family violence, sexual assault and supervision. Pam provides coaching,mentoring, debriefing support to navigate challenging situations and enhance the emotional,mental and general psychological wellbeing of individuals and their loved ones. With over 15 years of experience under her belt working through a trauma informed lens with clients,Pam is passionate about bringing hope through acceptance,value and belonging .
(03) 7303 3702 View (03) 7303 3702
Photo of Emma Lapierre, Social Worker, AASW
Emma Lapierre
Social Worker, AASW
Serves Area
Your teen might be putting enormous pressure on themselves, pushing through gruelling training sessions and still doubting whether they're good enough, no matter how hard they work. Maybe you've noticed they've lost their love for the sport they once lived for, or you feel like you don't know your teen anymore. They want to succeed, but the pressure, stress, and self-doubt are getting in the way, and you aren't sure how to help.
Your teen might be putting enormous pressure on themselves, pushing through gruelling training sessions and still doubting whether they're good enough, no matter how hard they work. Maybe you've noticed they've lost their love for the sport they once lived for, or you feel like you don't know your teen anymore. They want to succeed, but the pressure, stress, and self-doubt are getting in the way, and you aren't sure how to help.
(03) 7042 9979 View (03) 7042 9979
Photo of Chrissie Borg - Chrissie's Creative Therapies, Counsellor, MA, AThR
Chrissie's Creative Therapies
Counsellor, MA, AThR
Serves Area
I work with children and adults of all ages, to develop self-regulation techniques, process trauma, connect with the deeper, hidden parts of self, explore lifes challenges from different perspectives, and to create gentle shifts in ways of thinking, feeling and being. We start individual or group arts therapy sessions, with a short guided meditation or self-regulation practices to settle into the space and bring your self into that present moment, as a way of creating space for our somatic, arts therapy session.
I work with children and adults of all ages, to develop self-regulation techniques, process trauma, connect with the deeper, hidden parts of self, explore lifes challenges from different perspectives, and to create gentle shifts in ways of thinking, feeling and being. We start individual or group arts therapy sessions, with a short guided meditation or self-regulation practices to settle into the space and bring your self into that present moment, as a way of creating space for our somatic, arts therapy session.
(03) 9007 2072 View (03) 9007 2072
Photo of Jo Lockart - Kind Heart Counselling , Social Worker, MA, AASW
Kind Heart Counselling
Social Worker, MA, AASW
Serves Area
I offer safe, compassionate and holistic support for women (16+) Australia wide.If you’re carrying the impact of trauma—whether from sexual assault, childhood abuse, bullying, interpersonal violence or medical misogyny—I’m here to support you gently and compassionately. I have more than 15 years of training and expertise in complex childhood trauma and trauma caused by domestic, institutional or sexual abuse. You will find my approach is grounded in care, collaboration and a deep respect for you and your life experience. I’ll meet you where you are, at your pace, and help you move toward a life with more peace, clarity and meaning.
I offer safe, compassionate and holistic support for women (16+) Australia wide.If you’re carrying the impact of trauma—whether from sexual assault, childhood abuse, bullying, interpersonal violence or medical misogyny—I’m here to support you gently and compassionately. I have more than 15 years of training and expertise in complex childhood trauma and trauma caused by domestic, institutional or sexual abuse. You will find my approach is grounded in care, collaboration and a deep respect for you and your life experience. I’ll meet you where you are, at your pace, and help you move toward a life with more peace, clarity and meaning.
(03) 9068 6218 View (03) 9068 6218
Photo of Shilpi Sharma, Counsellor, ACA-L3
Shilpi Sharma
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Serves Area
Stress, Anxiety & Depression – practical support for stress management and emotional regulation.
I'm a Registered Counsellor based in Melbourne, providing compassionate, evidence-based counselling to individuals and couples across Australia. I help clients gain clarity, build emotional resilience, and create lasting growth through practical tools and actionable strategies. With certifications and training in Cognitive Principle Therapy (CPT), The Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Clinical Trauma, and Addictions-Informed Mental Health, My work is grounded in the belief that every person has the capacity to heal, grow, and realign with their true self, given the right space, guidance, and support. My Specialities Include:
Stress, Anxiety & Depression – practical support for stress management and emotional regulation.
I'm a Registered Counsellor based in Melbourne, providing compassionate, evidence-based counselling to individuals and couples across Australia. I help clients gain clarity, build emotional resilience, and create lasting growth through practical tools and actionable strategies. With certifications and training in Cognitive Principle Therapy (CPT), The Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Clinical Trauma, and Addictions-Informed Mental Health, My work is grounded in the belief that every person has the capacity to heal, grow, and realign with their true self, given the right space, guidance, and support. My Specialities Include:
(03) 7302 2312 View (03) 7302 2312

See more therapy options for Sunshine

Depression Therapists
What is the goal of therapy for depression?
Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognise and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?
Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?
Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioural activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?
Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?
Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.