Family Psychologists and Therapists in Sunshine

Photo of Ian Egginton, Counsellor
Ian Egginton
Counsellor
Sunshine, VIC 3020
My work in the youth sector showed me how powerful healthy relationships are for children and families.
Healing begins with honesty. My approach combines a strengths based perspective with solution focused strategies. I work at a pace that supports safety and vulnerability, giving you room to take risks, express your truth, and draw closer to each other with confidence.
My work in the youth sector showed me how powerful healthy relationships are for children and families.
Healing begins with honesty. My approach combines a strengths based perspective with solution focused strategies. I work at a pace that supports safety and vulnerability, giving you room to take risks, express your truth, and draw closer to each other with confidence.
(03) 7302 8183 View (03) 7302 8183
Photo of Qi May Leong - Positive Mind Hub, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Positive Mind Hub
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
We are a child, teen and adult friendly psychology practice located in Williams Landing and Keilor East that provides comprehensive psychological services, including psychotherapy and assessment for individuals of all ages. Assessments include ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) assessments.
We are a child, teen and adult friendly psychology practice located in Williams Landing and Keilor East that provides comprehensive psychological services, including psychotherapy and assessment for individuals of all ages. Assessments include ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) assessments.
(03) 9191 3567 View (03) 9191 3567
Photo of Nick Chien-Hung Koyang, Counsellor, AASW
Nick Chien-Hung Koyang
Counsellor, AASW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Nick specialises in supporting people experiencing trauma, family violence, PTSD, depression, anxiety and relationship issues (including couples and marriage counselling).
Nick Koyang is a dedicated and experienced counsellor providing support to adults of all ages in Melbourne. With years of professional expertise across diverse sectors—acute mental health, aged care, education, and private practice—Nick offers personalised counselling for individuals and couples. He is an Accredited Social Worker with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW). Whether you are facing personal challenges, relationship difficulties, or simply seeking clarity and growth, Nick provides a safe and supportive space to navigate life's complexities.
Nick specialises in supporting people experiencing trauma, family violence, PTSD, depression, anxiety and relationship issues (including couples and marriage counselling).
Nick Koyang is a dedicated and experienced counsellor providing support to adults of all ages in Melbourne. With years of professional expertise across diverse sectors—acute mental health, aged care, education, and private practice—Nick offers personalised counselling for individuals and couples. He is an Accredited Social Worker with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW). Whether you are facing personal challenges, relationship difficulties, or simply seeking clarity and growth, Nick provides a safe and supportive space to navigate life's complexities.
0468 863 690 View 0468 863 690
Roberto Cusati
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Knowledge and expertise in grief and loss, social isolation and loneliness in elderly, youth , children and adults, family issues and relationships, cultural issues.
Understanding that human experience is complex and individualised, my therapeutic approach revolves around person-centred counselling. This can be achieved through a range of therapeutic modalities designed to engage with individuals during therapeutic sessions. Interested in helping support people in being able to have the best possible meaningful individual life journey that is important to them.
Knowledge and expertise in grief and loss, social isolation and loneliness in elderly, youth , children and adults, family issues and relationships, cultural issues.
Understanding that human experience is complex and individualised, my therapeutic approach revolves around person-centred counselling. This can be achieved through a range of therapeutic modalities designed to engage with individuals during therapeutic sessions. Interested in helping support people in being able to have the best possible meaningful individual life journey that is important to them.
(02) 9158 6466 View (02) 9158 6466
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 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 Geetha Chetty, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Geetha Chetty
Counsellor, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My expertise is working with youth, adults, and families from different socio-economic and cultural backgrounds.
I believe that we are all unique and experience the world differently in our own special way. Therefore, I do not use a one size fits all counselling approach but adopt different strategies and techniques to provide the most effective treatment for my clients. I use a culturally sensitive, strengths-based, and trauma-informed approach to guide my practice.
My expertise is working with youth, adults, and families from different socio-economic and cultural backgrounds.
I believe that we are all unique and experience the world differently in our own special way. Therefore, I do not use a one size fits all counselling approach but adopt different strategies and techniques to provide the most effective treatment for my clients. I use a culturally sensitive, strengths-based, and trauma-informed approach to guide my practice.
(03) 7302 2085 View (03) 7302 2085
Wendy Henriks
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
A professional and dedicated psychologist working with children, adolescents, families and adults, with over twenty years experience.
Wendy has extensive experience working in schools, private practice and community based organisations. Wendy offers counselling sessions, couples counselling and assessments to children and adults. Assessments include autism, Vineland, educational and cognitive.
A professional and dedicated psychologist working with children, adolescents, families and adults, with over twenty years experience.
Wendy has extensive experience working in schools, private practice and community based organisations. Wendy offers counselling sessions, couples counselling and assessments to children and adults. Assessments include autism, Vineland, educational and cognitive.
(03) 8594 4003 View (03) 8594 4003
Photo of Chrissie Borg - Chrissie's Creative Therapies, Counsellor, MA, AThR
Chrissie's Creative Therapies
Counsellor, MA, AThR
Serves Area
Focus areas have included Disability, Family Services, Dept
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.
Focus areas have included Disability, Family Services, Dept
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 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 have significant experience working in both health & mental health settings, premature infants, IVF, adoption, parent infant mental health programs, child protection, family violence & within the family court as a court expert. My services include - individual & couples counselling, private reports for the Family Court & professional supervision.
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 have significant experience working in both health & mental health settings, premature infants, IVF, adoption, parent infant mental health programs, child protection, family violence & within the family court as a court expert. My services include - individual & couples counselling, private reports for the Family Court & professional supervision.
(03) 8595 4462 View (03) 8595 4462
Photo of Zen Tebeje, Counsellor
Zen Tebeje
Counsellor
Serves Area
I work with clients who may be struggling with depression or trauma related to their relationships or family.
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.
I work with clients who may be struggling with depression or trauma related to their relationships or family.
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
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 Jeremy Cohen, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Jeremy Cohen
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Serves Area
My areas of expertise are addiction issues, childhood and family trauma and conflict, relationship and attachment issues, nervous system re-regulation (the Polyvagal approach) and group work/group therapy.
I am a creative and collaborative clinician with a practice wisdom that has developed over twenty-five years in clinical and public health roles working with individuals, kids and teens, couples and groups, ranging across Alcohol & Other Drug, Oncology Hospital Social Work, Hospital Mental Health and Juvenile Justice sectors as well as in private practice.
My areas of expertise are addiction issues, childhood and family trauma and conflict, relationship and attachment issues, nervous system re-regulation (the Polyvagal approach) and group work/group therapy.
I am a creative and collaborative clinician with a practice wisdom that has developed over twenty-five years in clinical and public health roles working with individuals, kids and teens, couples and groups, ranging across Alcohol & Other Drug, Oncology Hospital Social Work, Hospital Mental Health and Juvenile Justice sectors as well as in private practice.
(03) 9007 2552 View (03) 9007 2552
Photo of Samantha Taffe, Social Worker, MSc, AMHSW
Samantha Taffe
Social Worker, MSc, AMHSW
Serves Area
I use Internal Family Systems to support clients facing suicidality, BPD, and trauma.
Therapy can feel like a big step. Maybe part of you is hopeful, part of you is skeptical, and another part is already trying to cancel the appointment. I’m trained in IFS (Level 1, 2 & 3), EMDR and DBT. IFS sees every person as made up of many parts, each one trying (sometimes in unhelpful ways) to keep us safe and seen. Whether it’s the overachiever, the inner critic, the people pleaser, or the stay in bed binge scroller. I’ve met them all, in clients and in myself. Together, we’ll help your Self step into the lead with curiosity, compassion and a laugh or two along the way Sessions Telehealth and In person
I use Internal Family Systems to support clients facing suicidality, BPD, and trauma.
Therapy can feel like a big step. Maybe part of you is hopeful, part of you is skeptical, and another part is already trying to cancel the appointment. I’m trained in IFS (Level 1, 2 & 3), EMDR and DBT. IFS sees every person as made up of many parts, each one trying (sometimes in unhelpful ways) to keep us safe and seen. Whether it’s the overachiever, the inner critic, the people pleaser, or the stay in bed binge scroller. I’ve met them all, in clients and in myself. Together, we’ll help your Self step into the lead with curiosity, compassion and a laugh or two along the way Sessions Telehealth and In person
(03) 4422 4836 View (03) 4422 4836
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 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 has worked in a variety of roles in the public and private sector such as specialist trauma counsellor AOD counsellor,Mental health practitioner,team lead ,group facilitator and supervisor,in addition to her independent practice as a manager and senior counsellor.
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 has worked in a variety of roles in the public and private sector such as specialist trauma counsellor AOD counsellor,Mental health practitioner,team lead ,group facilitator and supervisor,in addition to her independent practice as a manager and senior counsellor.
(03) 7303 3702 View (03) 7303 3702
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 Phuong Tran, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Phuong Tran
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
She supports people through major life transitions and the emotional impact of chronic or terminal illness, and works deeply with chronic pain and palliative care, offering compassionate, dignified support to individuals and families.
Phuong Tran is a compassionate and experienced clinical psychotherapist and counsellor with over 15 years of expertise. She specialises in helping individuals navigate emotional, mental, and psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma & PTSD, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions, etc. Phuong provides a safe, supportive space for healing and growth. Clients come to her feeling overwhelmed, seeking not only relief but also personal growth, clarity, and purpose. Phuong’s holistic, culturally sensitive approach empowers them to regain control, build emotional resilience, and achieve lasting well-being.
She supports people through major life transitions and the emotional impact of chronic or terminal illness, and works deeply with chronic pain and palliative care, offering compassionate, dignified support to individuals and families.
Phuong Tran is a compassionate and experienced clinical psychotherapist and counsellor with over 15 years of expertise. She specialises in helping individuals navigate emotional, mental, and psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma & PTSD, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions, etc. Phuong provides a safe, supportive space for healing and growth. Clients come to her feeling overwhelmed, seeking not only relief but also personal growth, clarity, and purpose. Phuong’s holistic, culturally sensitive approach empowers them to regain control, build emotional resilience, and achieve lasting well-being.
(03) 7302 8767 View (03) 7302 8767
Photo of Michelle Phan, Social Worker, MA
Michelle Phan
Social Worker, MA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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.
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 Marie Vakakis, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Marie Vakakis
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Serves Area
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.
For couples, I use the Gottman approach, which focuses on improving communication, rebuilding trust, and deepening emotional connection. Together, we’ll explore practical strategies to manage conflict, increase understanding, and nurture your relationship’s strengths.
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.
For couples, I use the Gottman approach, which focuses on improving communication, rebuilding trust, and deepening emotional connection. Together, we’ll explore practical strategies to manage conflict, increase understanding, and nurture your relationship’s strengths.
(03) 8613 3424 View (03) 8613 3424

See more therapy options for Sunshine

FAQ - About Family Therapy
What issues does family therapy help with?
Family therapy can help families navigate the complex dynamics of family life, including communication challenges and recurring conflict between family members. A therapist can help family members identify dysfunctional patterns in communication and develop healthier ways of relating. Family therapy may also be helpful during major life transitions or stressful events that affect the family system, such as grief, divorce, trauma, relocation, or a serious illness. In some cases, family therapy can support families coping with specific mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, alcohol or substance use disorders, and eating disorders. In these situations, therapy can provide education and support to family members, as well as to the individual with the mental health diagnosis.

How do I know if my family needs counselling?
Family therapy may be helpful if a family consistently struggles with conflict or communication in a way that affects daily life or relationships. It can also be beneficial when someone in the family is experiencing significant emotional or behavioural changes, such as a family member becoming aggressive, withdrawing, or struggling to cope after a traumatic event. Additionally, some concerns, such as addiction or eating disorders, may be especially important to address in the context of the family unit.

Who attends family counselling sessions?
Family counselling sessions are often attended by members of the immediate family, such as parents, caregivers, children, or siblings. However, other family members may attend when appropriate, including grandparents, stepparents, stepsiblings, or co-parents. Who attends may depend on the family’s needs, the therapist’s recommendations, and the goals of treatment.

Can family therapy be done online?
Family therapy can often be done online. Virtual sessions may be especially convenient when family members live in different locations, have busy schedules, or live in an area where family therapists are less accessible. However, online therapy may not be the best fit for every family. In-person care may be more appropriate when there are safety concerns, severe conflict, limited privacy at home, or when young children have difficulty engaging through a screen.

What therapeutic approaches are used in family counselling?
Family therapy can take different forms, including systemic family therapy (exploring how individual actions affect the family), structural family therapy (uncovering the structure and relationship dynamics of the family unit), and attachment-based family therapy (focusing on how bonds between family members shape relationships). Family therapy may also include psychoeducation, which helps family members learn more about a mental health condition and how to respond to it more effectively.

How much does family therapy cost and is it covered by insurance?
Family therapy sessions, which typically last about an hour, often range from around AUD $150 to $250 or more, depending on factors such as location, therapist experience, session length, and practice setting. Family therapy often costs more than individual therapy because it involves multiple participants and more complex treatment planning. In Australia, family therapy is often paid out of pocket, although some private health insurance policies may provide partial rebates, depending on the provider type and policy. Medicare rebates may be available in limited circumstances when a person has a Mental Health Treatment Plan established by their GP and is referred to an eligible mental health professional. However, these rebates only apply when services are provided by Medicare-eligible providers and are often subject to a limited number of sessions.