Substance Use Psychologists and Therapists in Sunshine, VIC

Photo of Shilpi Sharma, Counsellor, ACA-L3
Shilpi Sharma
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Serves Area
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:
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
Photo of Christian Long - Chris Long Clinical Psychologist, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Chris Long Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
2 Endorsed
Online Only
These are evidence-based treatments used for working on depression, anxiety, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, eating disorders, ADHD, substance use, chronic pain and personality disorders.
I take pride in working with people to support them to achieve their goals and to lead a fulfilling life. I commit to individualised and evidence-based practice, which means holding you as the client at the centre of therapeutic work whilst providing psychotherapy supported by clinical research. I work with people to help them understand the 'bigger picture', including what might be underlying and maintaining their difficulties. I also take a skills-based to psychotherapy, with the aim of supporting people to learn practical skills which they can implement long-term. I have experience working with adults, adolescents and children.
These are evidence-based treatments used for working on depression, anxiety, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, eating disorders, ADHD, substance use, chronic pain and personality disorders.
I take pride in working with people to support them to achieve their goals and to lead a fulfilling life. I commit to individualised and evidence-based practice, which means holding you as the client at the centre of therapeutic work whilst providing psychotherapy supported by clinical research. I work with people to help them understand the 'bigger picture', including what might be underlying and maintaining their difficulties. I also take a skills-based to psychotherapy, with the aim of supporting people to learn practical skills which they can implement long-term. I have experience working with adults, adolescents and children.
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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 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 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

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dave Segal, Counsellor, PACFA
Dave Segal
Counsellor, PACFA
Online Only
Specialising in couples counselling, substance use, grief, and trauma I utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
If you’ve found yourself here, chances are something important isn’t feeling right—maybe in your relationship, your sense of self, or both. Whether you’re in a new relationship or have been together for decades, it’s common to feel stuck, disconnected, or unsure of how to move forward. And it’s not always easy to open up to friends, family, or even your partner. I offer a warm, collaborative space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported as we work together to create meaningful, lasting change—emotionally, mentally, and in the way you connect with others. Therapy isn’t about fixing you—it’s about supporting you.
Specialising in couples counselling, substance use, grief, and trauma I utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
If you’ve found yourself here, chances are something important isn’t feeling right—maybe in your relationship, your sense of self, or both. Whether you’re in a new relationship or have been together for decades, it’s common to feel stuck, disconnected, or unsure of how to move forward. And it’s not always easy to open up to friends, family, or even your partner. I offer a warm, collaborative space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported as we work together to create meaningful, lasting change—emotionally, mentally, and in the way you connect with others. Therapy isn’t about fixing you—it’s about supporting you.
(07) 4085 9014 View (07) 4085 9014
Photo of Clare Galdes, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Clare Galdes
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Online Only
Hello and welcome! I’m Clare, an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and Therapist offering telehealth therapy to adults and young adults across Australia. My practice focuses on three key areas: addiction and trauma, neurodiversity, and parenting. I work with people navigating the complex intersections of these experiences whether you’re managing a dual diagnosis, supporting a neurodivergent child, or healing from past trauma while trying to stay present in your daily life. While these are my areas of specialty, I also support people with a wide range of challenges including anxiety, depression, grief and life transitions.
Hello and welcome! I’m Clare, an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and Therapist offering telehealth therapy to adults and young adults across Australia. My practice focuses on three key areas: addiction and trauma, neurodiversity, and parenting. I work with people navigating the complex intersections of these experiences whether you’re managing a dual diagnosis, supporting a neurodivergent child, or healing from past trauma while trying to stay present in your daily life. While these are my areas of specialty, I also support people with a wide range of challenges including anxiety, depression, grief and life transitions.
(03) 7003 2777 View (03) 7003 2777
Photo of Ngoc B Nguyen, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Ngoc B Nguyen
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
If you're looking for an emotionally safe and judgement-free space to work through your struggles, whether that be anxiety, depression, relationship breakdown, stress, or substance use, then let's work together to achieve your goals.
I'd be honoured to hear your story and to collaborate with you as you embark on your therapy journey. I'll support you every step of the way as you work towards developing self-awareness and achieving your short/long-term goals. I have experience working in a private practice, school, and forensic setting, with a wide range of ages.
If you're looking for an emotionally safe and judgement-free space to work through your struggles, whether that be anxiety, depression, relationship breakdown, stress, or substance use, then let's work together to achieve your goals.
I'd be honoured to hear your story and to collaborate with you as you embark on your therapy journey. I'll support you every step of the way as you work towards developing self-awareness and achieving your short/long-term goals. I have experience working in a private practice, school, and forensic setting, with a wide range of ages.
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Photo of Laura Prior, Social Worker, AASW
Laura Prior
Social Worker, AASW
Mulgrave, VIC 3170
I work with people who are feeling overwhelmed and stressed; are being held back by anxiety or depression; are concerned about their drug and/or alcohol use; or are trying to support someone with substance use issues.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with over 20 years experience working with people with complex issues including mental health, substance abuse and trauma to name a few. I have a gentle, compassionate non-judgmental approach. I have a passion for helping people feel valued, and loved and to live the life they were created to live.
I work with people who are feeling overwhelmed and stressed; are being held back by anxiety or depression; are concerned about their drug and/or alcohol use; or are trying to support someone with substance use issues.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with over 20 years experience working with people with complex issues including mental health, substance abuse and trauma to name a few. I have a gentle, compassionate non-judgmental approach. I have a passion for helping people feel valued, and loved and to live the life they were created to live.
(03) 8613 3470 View (03) 8613 3470
Photo of Simon Westcott, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Simon Westcott
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Carlton, VIC 3053
I seek to support clients who are looking to make positive change in their lives. They may want to move away from difficult emotional states like depression, anxiety, anger and loneliness or address repetitive and destructive behaviours such as substance abuse or sexual compulsion that are holding them back. They may also be overwhelmed by big transitions like bereavement, divorce or relocation and feel stuck, or unvalued, in their professional journey. I see clients of all ages and from many walks of life, with a particular focus on men's mental health, working professionals, and members of the LGBTQ community.
I seek to support clients who are looking to make positive change in their lives. They may want to move away from difficult emotional states like depression, anxiety, anger and loneliness or address repetitive and destructive behaviours such as substance abuse or sexual compulsion that are holding them back. They may also be overwhelmed by big transitions like bereavement, divorce or relocation and feel stuck, or unvalued, in their professional journey. I see clients of all ages and from many walks of life, with a particular focus on men's mental health, working professionals, and members of the LGBTQ community.
0431 659 979 View 0431 659 979
Photo of Rodney Ts - Help Now Group, Social Worker, AMHSW
Help Now Group
Social Worker, AMHSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I provide EMDR, Gestalt, and CBT therapy for people with a wide range of issues from PTSD, Anxiety, Substance Use, Dissociation, and more
The ideal person coming into see me are committing to change for themselves. I see their ideal goals are finding peace with their trauma, anxiety, depression, and etc. I see that they are looking for a calm place even if they have not experienced this in their life before.
I provide EMDR, Gestalt, and CBT therapy for people with a wide range of issues from PTSD, Anxiety, Substance Use, Dissociation, and more
The ideal person coming into see me are committing to change for themselves. I see their ideal goals are finding peace with their trauma, anxiety, depression, and etc. I see that they are looking for a calm place even if they have not experienced this in their life before.
(02) 5133 8472 View (02) 5133 8472
Photo of Caitlin Amanda Gaffney, Social Worker, AASW
Caitlin Amanda Gaffney
Social Worker, AASW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am experienced working with neuro-diversity, addiction/ substance use and behaviour change.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with specialised experience supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, recovery and trauma. I am a Credentialed Eating Disorder Clinician and member of ANZAED. My approach is grounded in empathy, empowerment and collaboration, focused on building the insight, self-compassion, and practical skills needed to achieve your goals and live in alignment with your values. Clients who are referred by a GP with a mental health care plan are eligible for Medicare rebates of $87.25 per session.
I am experienced working with neuro-diversity, addiction/ substance use and behaviour change.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with specialised experience supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, recovery and trauma. I am a Credentialed Eating Disorder Clinician and member of ANZAED. My approach is grounded in empathy, empowerment and collaboration, focused on building the insight, self-compassion, and practical skills needed to achieve your goals and live in alignment with your values. Clients who are referred by a GP with a mental health care plan are eligible for Medicare rebates of $87.25 per session.
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Photo of Martina Stewart - Martina Stewart | Elpis Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Martina Stewart | Elpis Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Carlton, VIC 3053
I am a registered psychologist and Board-approved supervisor. I have been providing therapeutic interventions for over 15 years in a wide range of settings including early intervention services, community mental health, and forensic rehabilitation. I provide therapeutic interventions to clients presenting with a range of complex issues, including depression and anxiety, personality disorders and substance misuse. I am particularly passionate about working with individuals who are affected by trauma-related difficulties and I have a thorough understanding of the impact of early life experiences in shaping a person's development.
I am a registered psychologist and Board-approved supervisor. I have been providing therapeutic interventions for over 15 years in a wide range of settings including early intervention services, community mental health, and forensic rehabilitation. I provide therapeutic interventions to clients presenting with a range of complex issues, including depression and anxiety, personality disorders and substance misuse. I am particularly passionate about working with individuals who are affected by trauma-related difficulties and I have a thorough understanding of the impact of early life experiences in shaping a person's development.
(03) 7003 2547 View (03) 7003 2547
Photo of Madeline Allen - Ease of Mind Counselling, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Ease of Mind Counselling
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Online Only
I have extensive experience working with substance use, anger, anxiety, low mood, stress and more with both men and women.
I provide counselling support for most concerns, from needing a mindset refresh to major distress. However, have a special interest in substance use, behaviour change, anxiety and stress, improving mood and emotion management. I encourage those who may find it hard to talk - telehealth can sometimes work well if you're unsure about counselling.
I have extensive experience working with substance use, anger, anxiety, low mood, stress and more with both men and women.
I provide counselling support for most concerns, from needing a mindset refresh to major distress. However, have a special interest in substance use, behaviour change, anxiety and stress, improving mood and emotion management. I encourage those who may find it hard to talk - telehealth can sometimes work well if you're unsure about counselling.
(03) 4327 9683 View (03) 4327 9683
Photo of Thomas Reiner, Counsellor, PhD, ACA-L1
Thomas Reiner
Counsellor, PhD, ACA-L1
Brunswick, VIC 3056
My counselling approach is person-centred and strength-based. You are invited to speak openly, without being judged or being told what to do. My counselling creates a sounding board for things you might want to talk about and provides a space to explore what you might like to do differently, achieve, or just understand better.
My counselling approach is person-centred and strength-based. You are invited to speak openly, without being judged or being told what to do. My counselling creates a sounding board for things you might want to talk about and provides a space to explore what you might like to do differently, achieve, or just understand better.
(03) 8338 4744 View (03) 8338 4744
Photo of Li Lian Koh, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Li Lian Koh
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
[Telehealth only]. Li Lian is a registered Clinical Psychologist who works primarily with older adolescents and adults, and enjoys working with clients of differing cultural backgrounds and presenting issues. She has experience working with anxiety disorders, depression, PTSD, anger management, addictions, as well as criminal and offending behaviours. Li Lian ensures that she creates a warm, empathetic and non-judgemental space for clients. She encourages open and honest communication to ensure that clients feel comfortable in sharing their thoughts, feelings, behaviours and any feedback about the process.
[Telehealth only]. Li Lian is a registered Clinical Psychologist who works primarily with older adolescents and adults, and enjoys working with clients of differing cultural backgrounds and presenting issues. She has experience working with anxiety disorders, depression, PTSD, anger management, addictions, as well as criminal and offending behaviours. Li Lian ensures that she creates a warm, empathetic and non-judgemental space for clients. She encourages open and honest communication to ensure that clients feel comfortable in sharing their thoughts, feelings, behaviours and any feedback about the process.
(03) 7003 2061 View (03) 7003 2061
Photo of Murray Sibbison - Prodigal Family Services, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Prodigal Family Services
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Caulfield North, VIC 3161
Hi, my name is Murray. I'm an Addiction Specialist, Counsellor, Christian Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor. With an extensive background in addictions, my knowledge of the topic reaches beyond the norm having lived my own personal experience seeking help and residential rehabilitation for a drug and alcohol addiction and deteriorating mental health as a young adult. I have over twelve years’ professional experience in the Alcohol & Other Drug (AOD) sector, and ten years professional experience as a counsellor, including six years living and working in a residential drug & alcohol rehabilitation centre.
Hi, my name is Murray. I'm an Addiction Specialist, Counsellor, Christian Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor. With an extensive background in addictions, my knowledge of the topic reaches beyond the norm having lived my own personal experience seeking help and residential rehabilitation for a drug and alcohol addiction and deteriorating mental health as a young adult. I have over twelve years’ professional experience in the Alcohol & Other Drug (AOD) sector, and ten years professional experience as a counsellor, including six years living and working in a residential drug & alcohol rehabilitation centre.
(03) 8658 8900 View (03) 8658 8900
Photo of Carolina Bustos, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Carolina Bustos
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I am a warm and non-judgmental therapist, who enjoys working collaboratively with my clients. I use a humanistic approach and a variety of evidence-based techniques to facilitate goal achievements. I work reflectively and obtain feedback from my clients to ensure treatment plans make genuine sense through their time in therapy. I provide a welcoming space for my younger clients where they feel free to express their emotions and thoughts in a safe and fun manner (play therapy, artistic activities or verbal communication). Having lived in several countries, I have a broad understanding of cultural differences and human diversity.
I am a warm and non-judgmental therapist, who enjoys working collaboratively with my clients. I use a humanistic approach and a variety of evidence-based techniques to facilitate goal achievements. I work reflectively and obtain feedback from my clients to ensure treatment plans make genuine sense through their time in therapy. I provide a welcoming space for my younger clients where they feel free to express their emotions and thoughts in a safe and fun manner (play therapy, artistic activities or verbal communication). Having lived in several countries, I have a broad understanding of cultural differences and human diversity.
(03) 6164 5011 View (03) 6164 5011
Photo of Dettie Onus Browne, Social Worker, AMHSW
Dettie Onus Browne
Social Worker, AMHSW
Northcote, VIC 3070
I'm experienced working with people of all age groups, across a range of areas including but not limited to: anxiety, complex trauma, stress, burnout, grief, family conflict, identity-related challenges, depression, substance use, family violence, low-confidence and chronic shame.
I’m a white, neurodivergent, non-binary queer and trans mental health social worker and clinical family therapist with over a decade of experience in community organisations. I am an integrative therapist who takes a collaborative and transparent approach, drawing on systemic theory, attachment theory, IFS, interpersonal therapy and others (see below).
I'm experienced working with people of all age groups, across a range of areas including but not limited to: anxiety, complex trauma, stress, burnout, grief, family conflict, identity-related challenges, depression, substance use, family violence, low-confidence and chronic shame.
I’m a white, neurodivergent, non-binary queer and trans mental health social worker and clinical family therapist with over a decade of experience in community organisations. I am an integrative therapist who takes a collaborative and transparent approach, drawing on systemic theory, attachment theory, IFS, interpersonal therapy and others (see below).
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See more therapy options for Sunshine

Substance Use Therapists
How do substance and drug recovery or rehabilitation programs work?
In inpatient programs, individuals live in a facility with other clients in recovery; in outpatient programs, individuals reside at home. These facilities are staffed with healthcare professionals including physicians, nurses, psychologists, counsellors, and psychotherapists. Staff often also includes people who have recovered themselves, serving as mentors and guides. These programs may use abstinence, harm reduction, detoxification, psychotherapy, and other methods.

How do 12-step programs combined with psychotherapy work?
Members of 12-step programs help each other reach abstinence and work to maintain it. These programs promote complete change in the individual’s emotional, mental, physical, and even spiritual perspectives. Some programs require that new members attend 90 meetings in 90 days. Many people do attend these programs in conjunction with their work in psychotherapy; the combination of therapy along with 12-step can be extremely effective.

How does harm reduction combined with psychotherapy work?
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, harm reduction prevents death, injury, disease, overdose, and substance misuse. People who choose harm reduction for substance use reduce the amount of drugs they consume. It is not abstinence-based like a 12-step program, but combining harm reduction with psychotherapy proves to be effective for many people.

Are there specific medications for substance and drug use?
There are medications approved to treat substance use disorder—such as buprenorphine, methadone, naltrexone, and acamprosate. These medications do help people cope with substance use as well as avoid the problem of relapse. Naltrexone can help reduce cravings, methadone is an opioid medication used to treat severe pain, and acamprosate may help ease symptoms like poor sleep and anxious feelings.