Gottman Method Psychologists and Therapists in Sunshine, VIC

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 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 Nick Chien-Hung Koyang, Counsellor, AASW
Nick Chien-Hung Koyang
Counsellor, AASW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
To address each person's unique needs, he integrates skills from EMDR, Mindful CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Gottman Method.
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.
To address each person's unique needs, he integrates skills from EMDR, Mindful CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Gottman Method.
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
Photo of Shilpi Sharma, Counsellor, ACA-L3
Shilpi Sharma
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Serves Area
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.
Stress, Anxiety & Depression – practical support for stress management and emotional regulation. Couples Counselling – Rebuild connection, trust, and communication. Court-recognised certificate courses with personalised counselling sessions in Anger Management, Addiction & Recovery Support, and an abridged Men’s Behaviour Change program.
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.
Stress, Anxiety & Depression – practical support for stress management and emotional regulation. Couples Counselling – Rebuild connection, trust, and communication. Court-recognised certificate courses with personalised counselling sessions in Anger Management, Addiction & Recovery Support, and an abridged Men’s Behaviour Change program.
(03) 7302 2312 View (03) 7302 2312
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
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 is a client centred therapist who is trained in CBT, ACT, DBT, Mindfulness, IPT, play therapy, child parent relationship therapy, schema therapy, self compassion, Gottmans couples and more. She received Honours in psychology at Deakin University.
A professional and dedicated psychologist working with children, adolescents, families and adults, with over twenty years experience. Wendy is a client centred therapist who is trained in CBT, ACT, DBT, Mindfulness, IPT, play therapy, child parent relationship therapy, schema therapy, self compassion, Gottmans couples and more. She received Honours in psychology at Deakin University.
(03) 8594 4003 View (03) 8594 4003

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Magdalena Mroczka - Reset & Grow Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Reset & Grow Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Melbourne, VIC 3000
Magda's clients vary from well-seasoned in therapy to these who never worked with a psychologist before. Many are experiencing a major life transition such as geographical relocation, relationship breakdown/dissatisfaction or a career transition. It is her vision and passion to facilitate individuals, couples and families in connect to their values, learning practical tools to cope with life's challenges more effectively, and live happier and more meaningful lives. She specialises in providing services to culturally and linguistically diverse clients, LGBTQI clients, and clients who identify as religious and/or spiritual.
Magda's clients vary from well-seasoned in therapy to these who never worked with a psychologist before. Many are experiencing a major life transition such as geographical relocation, relationship breakdown/dissatisfaction or a career transition. It is her vision and passion to facilitate individuals, couples and families in connect to their values, learning practical tools to cope with life's challenges more effectively, and live happier and more meaningful lives. She specialises in providing services to culturally and linguistically diverse clients, LGBTQI clients, and clients who identify as religious and/or spiritual.
(03) 9069 9783 View (03) 9069 9783
Photo of Raquel Tomaino, Counsellor, PACFA
Raquel Tomaino
Counsellor, PACFA
Preston, VIC 3072
Raquel is a registered counsellor working with individuals and couples, with a focus on helping people get to know the different parts of themselves. Much of her work centres on supporting adults with relational difficulties of all kinds - whether that's with a partner, family, coworkers, or within themselves. Some of the other common challenges she works with include people-pleasing, boundaries, self-worth, anxiety, grief, and the lingering impacts of past experiences. Whatever brings someone in, she finds that underneath most of it are parts of us that are just trying to help - even when they don't.
Raquel is a registered counsellor working with individuals and couples, with a focus on helping people get to know the different parts of themselves. Much of her work centres on supporting adults with relational difficulties of all kinds - whether that's with a partner, family, coworkers, or within themselves. Some of the other common challenges she works with include people-pleasing, boundaries, self-worth, anxiety, grief, and the lingering impacts of past experiences. Whatever brings someone in, she finds that underneath most of it are parts of us that are just trying to help - even when they don't.
0431 988 593 View 0431 988 593
Photo of Olivia Syposs, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Olivia Syposs
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Malvern East, VIC 3145
Navigating life’s transitions, relationships, and personal challenges can feel daunting, but you don’t have to face them alone. I specialise in working with adolescents young adults in their 20s and 30s who are navigating relationship challenges, eating disorders, family trauma, mood disorders, and the ripple effects of complex family dynamics or sustained trauma. Together, we’ll create a space where your story is valued, your experiences are understood, and your goals take center stage.
Navigating life’s transitions, relationships, and personal challenges can feel daunting, but you don’t have to face them alone. I specialise in working with adolescents young adults in their 20s and 30s who are navigating relationship challenges, eating disorders, family trauma, mood disorders, and the ripple effects of complex family dynamics or sustained trauma. Together, we’ll create a space where your story is valued, your experiences are understood, and your goals take center stage.
(03) 7500 5494 View (03) 7500 5494
Photo of Sarah Dakhili, Counsellor, AMHSW
Sarah Dakhili
Counsellor, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Sarah is a Psychotherapist and Mental Health Social Worker. She has been working within the field of mind-body disorders (MBD) for over 14 years, specialising in Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) chronic pain, trauma recovery and Tension Myositis Syndrome (TMS), including other challenges such as stress, anxiety, depression, Fibromyalgia and PTSD. Her motto is simple: “Supporting clients in creating authentic power within themselves and in turn being able to make what was once difficult, easier”.
Sarah is a Psychotherapist and Mental Health Social Worker. She has been working within the field of mind-body disorders (MBD) for over 14 years, specialising in Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) chronic pain, trauma recovery and Tension Myositis Syndrome (TMS), including other challenges such as stress, anxiety, depression, Fibromyalgia and PTSD. Her motto is simple: “Supporting clients in creating authentic power within themselves and in turn being able to make what was once difficult, easier”.
(07) 3130 0085 View (07) 3130 0085
Photo of Jess Mackenzie, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Jess Mackenzie
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Fitzroy, VIC 3065
Jess offers individual counselling, couples counselling and supervision. She is welcoming and friendly and recognises the importance of building a therapeutic relationship to which people can bring problems and issues without judgement. Jess understands that we all experience uncomfortable and unhelpful behaviours and feelings. With support and some gently challenging, these behaviours and feelings can start to shift.
Jess offers individual counselling, couples counselling and supervision. She is welcoming and friendly and recognises the importance of building a therapeutic relationship to which people can bring problems and issues without judgement. Jess understands that we all experience uncomfortable and unhelpful behaviours and feelings. With support and some gently challenging, these behaviours and feelings can start to shift.
(03) 8372 0590 View (03) 8372 0590
Photo of Imogen Rose Todd - Imogen Todd - Sex Therapy, MSc
Imogen Todd - Sex Therapy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brunswick, VIC 3056
As a queer Sexologist and Mental Health Social Worker, I am here to support clients with a range of presenting difficulties. I offer sex therapy, relationship/couples therapy, perinatal therapy, and general counselling. I have expertise in supporting those with sexual function issues, including painful sex, erectile dysfunction, vaginismus and more. I also support people experiencing performance anxiety, mismatch in desire, body image concerns, relationship issues, sexual assault survivors, sex workers, and those needing support exploring gender and sexuality. I provide a warm, safe and non-judgemental space to meet client needs.
As a queer Sexologist and Mental Health Social Worker, I am here to support clients with a range of presenting difficulties. I offer sex therapy, relationship/couples therapy, perinatal therapy, and general counselling. I have expertise in supporting those with sexual function issues, including painful sex, erectile dysfunction, vaginismus and more. I also support people experiencing performance anxiety, mismatch in desire, body image concerns, relationship issues, sexual assault survivors, sex workers, and those needing support exploring gender and sexuality. I provide a warm, safe and non-judgemental space to meet client needs.
(03) 8338 1600 View (03) 8338 1600
Photo of Leah Smith - Opening Doors Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Opening Doors Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
3 Endorsed
Black Rock, VIC 3193
Waitlist for new clients
Leah Smith, Director and Principal Psychologist of "Opening Doors Psychology" has a passion for working with adolescents (14+ years), young adults/adults, and also works with some couples. Leah is particularly interested in working with eating disorders and body image concerns, as well as, anxiety disorders, trauma, neurodivergence and interpersonal/relational difficulties. Leah strives to provide a safe space for clients to develop a deeper understanding of themselves, guide clients to and equip them with the necessary skills, to enable them to manage their symptoms and unique difficulties, and address ongoing problematic patterns.
Leah Smith, Director and Principal Psychologist of "Opening Doors Psychology" has a passion for working with adolescents (14+ years), young adults/adults, and also works with some couples. Leah is particularly interested in working with eating disorders and body image concerns, as well as, anxiety disorders, trauma, neurodivergence and interpersonal/relational difficulties. Leah strives to provide a safe space for clients to develop a deeper understanding of themselves, guide clients to and equip them with the necessary skills, to enable them to manage their symptoms and unique difficulties, and address ongoing problematic patterns.
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Photo of Ana-Louise Almagro, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Ana-Louise Almagro
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Abbotsford, VIC 3067
I work primarily using CBT, Schema, EMDR and Gottman Method.
I am dedicated to working with clients to develop realistic and achievable therapeutic goals. I believe the most important part of effective therapy is a strong connection with your therapist and I work hard to build a strong therapeutic alliance.
I work primarily using CBT, Schema, EMDR and Gottman Method.
I am dedicated to working with clients to develop realistic and achievable therapeutic goals. I believe the most important part of effective therapy is a strong connection with your therapist and I work hard to build a strong therapeutic alliance.
(03) 7003 2488 View (03) 7003 2488
Photo of Hopal Grant-McClintock - Mind Matters Christian Counselling, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Mind Matters Christian Counselling
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Online Only
Caring for matters of the mind in a Christ-centered way is important to my practice. I believe mental health is an integral part of overall wellbeing You may be experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or major life transitions. I provide a safe, supportive space to explore your concerns, gain clarity, and begin moving toward healing and positive change. I use evidence-based approaches and practical strategies. For those who desire it, I also integrate Christian faith and prayer into the counselling process to support growth and restoration.
Caring for matters of the mind in a Christ-centered way is important to my practice. I believe mental health is an integral part of overall wellbeing You may be experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or major life transitions. I provide a safe, supportive space to explore your concerns, gain clarity, and begin moving toward healing and positive change. I use evidence-based approaches and practical strategies. For those who desire it, I also integrate Christian faith and prayer into the counselling process to support growth and restoration.
(02) 5605 7606 View (02) 5605 7606
Photo of Bree Baxter, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Bree Baxter
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Eltham, VIC 3095
Bree is an experienced counsellor, trained in Level 1 and 2 Gottman Method Therapy.
Bree specialises in providing support to relationships as they navigate new challenges and everyday stressors. With a focus on couples counselling and both maternal and paternal mental health, Bree is committed to making therapy both accessible and affordable for couples. Bree is a registered counsellor and professional supervisor with the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) and a certified Gottman Bringing Baby Home Educator. Her approach is designed to empower individuals with practical strategies and meaningful insights that can be applied well beyond the therapy space.
Bree is an experienced counsellor, trained in Level 1 and 2 Gottman Method Therapy.
Bree specialises in providing support to relationships as they navigate new challenges and everyday stressors. With a focus on couples counselling and both maternal and paternal mental health, Bree is committed to making therapy both accessible and affordable for couples. Bree is a registered counsellor and professional supervisor with the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) and a certified Gottman Bringing Baby Home Educator. Her approach is designed to empower individuals with practical strategies and meaningful insights that can be applied well beyond the therapy space.
(03) 8400 0041 View (03) 8400 0041
Photo of Claire Ruthven - Claire Ruthven Counselling, Social Worker, AMHSW
Claire Ruthven Counselling
Social Worker, AMHSW
Carlton North, VIC 3054
Hi there! My name is Claire and I'm a counsellor specialising in relationship and couples' therapy. I see both couples and individuals in my practice My approach to counselling starts by allowing space and time to get to know you, and what has brought you to seek support at this time. I enjoy getting to know people from all walks of life, and I aim to create a warm and trusting experience in sessions.
Hi there! My name is Claire and I'm a counsellor specialising in relationship and couples' therapy. I see both couples and individuals in my practice My approach to counselling starts by allowing space and time to get to know you, and what has brought you to seek support at this time. I enjoy getting to know people from all walks of life, and I aim to create a warm and trusting experience in sessions.
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Photo of Darren Wong, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Darren Wong
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Mitcham, VIC 3132
I am dedicated to helping individuals and couples foster self-awareness, resilience, and meaningful change. Whether navigating personal challenges, relationship dynamics, or life transitions, I seeks to empower clients with practical tools and insights in a non-judgmental, supportive and confidential environment. My goal is to help you move toward clarity, healing, to achieve a more fulfilling life.
I am dedicated to helping individuals and couples foster self-awareness, resilience, and meaningful change. Whether navigating personal challenges, relationship dynamics, or life transitions, I seeks to empower clients with practical tools and insights in a non-judgmental, supportive and confidential environment. My goal is to help you move toward clarity, healing, to achieve a more fulfilling life.
(03) 8203 5496 View (03) 8203 5496
Photo of Alexandra Scoleri, Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Alexandra Scoleri
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Carlton, VIC 3053
My couples therapy training includes the Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy and PACT (Psychobiological approach to couples therapy).
People often come to psychotherapy as an alternative to mainstream psychological treatments, in the hope of finding deeper resolutions to long standing issues. Psychotherapy indeed offers a path to resolving underlying causes of mental health or relational issues, through longer term therapy. In my practice of psychotherapy, I offer a reflective relationship, where we use the body (somatic therapy) and our relationship (interpersonal therapy), as sources of insight and change. This process can not only relieve symptoms such as anxiety or depression but also provides fundamental insights into who you are and who you might want to be.
My couples therapy training includes the Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy and PACT (Psychobiological approach to couples therapy).
People often come to psychotherapy as an alternative to mainstream psychological treatments, in the hope of finding deeper resolutions to long standing issues. Psychotherapy indeed offers a path to resolving underlying causes of mental health or relational issues, through longer term therapy. In my practice of psychotherapy, I offer a reflective relationship, where we use the body (somatic therapy) and our relationship (interpersonal therapy), as sources of insight and change. This process can not only relieve symptoms such as anxiety or depression but also provides fundamental insights into who you are and who you might want to be.
(03) 9827 0302 View (03) 9827 0302
Photo of Mim Kempson - Sex & Relationship Therapist - Mim Kempson, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Sex & Relationship Therapist - Mim Kempson
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Online Only
As a registered counsellor specialising in sex, dating and relationships, I support individuals and couples in communicating more effectively, deepening intimacy and navigating conflict in ways that strengthen trust and respect. I also specialise in ADHD and autism, helping adults unmask so that they can connect more authentically in their relationships. The clients I work with are often self-aware but feel stuck in not knowing how to transform that awareness into action. They're wanting to create sustainable, positive change in their lives and build meaningful relationships that don't just tolerate who they are, but celebrate it.
As a registered counsellor specialising in sex, dating and relationships, I support individuals and couples in communicating more effectively, deepening intimacy and navigating conflict in ways that strengthen trust and respect. I also specialise in ADHD and autism, helping adults unmask so that they can connect more authentically in their relationships. The clients I work with are often self-aware but feel stuck in not knowing how to transform that awareness into action. They're wanting to create sustainable, positive change in their lives and build meaningful relationships that don't just tolerate who they are, but celebrate it.
(08) 6206 8724 View (08) 6206 8724

See more therapy options for Sunshine

Gottman Method Therapists
How does the Gottman method work?
One of the core doctrines of the Gottman method is that negative emotions hurt relationships about five times more than positive emotions help them. Thus, couples require five times more positive interactions than negative interactions with each other. The therapist will guide clients on how to improve communication and understanding of each other to manage conflict and have their emotional needs met. The therapist will also advise couples on how to repair relations with each other when conflict arises, and therefore avoid lasting damage.

Is the Gottman method evidence-based?
Yes, this method is an evidence-based approach to couples therapy. The method is based on more than 40 years of research by Drs. John and Julie Gottman, the psychologists who developed the method. The Gottmans analysed decades of data to draw conclusions about what types of interactions are likely to lead to specific results, and which interventions are most likely to lead to success. Studies have found that this approach leads to improvements in relationship satisfaction, intimacy, communication skills, and a lower rate of divorce.

How long does the Gottman method take?
The duration of treatment depends on the specific challenges clients face. Sessions are typically 60 to 90 minutes long, and an average course of treatment is around 10 sessions. In some cases, such as for couples dealing with a critical problem, the therapist will suggest an intensive course of treatment, with daily sessions over the first two to four days. Treatment is complete when the couple is satisfied and has met the goals they’ve set, and when the therapist believes they have the skills to continue on their own.

Is the Gottman method effective?
Through the Gottman method, couples can achieve changes that are real and sustainable. This treatment has been used for more than 40 years; the method is supported by empirical research, including randomised controlled trials that have demonstrated effectiveness in improving relationship outcomes for couples. Like any talk therapy, success or failure depends in large part on how committed the clients are to making positive changes and working toward results.