Addiction Psychologists and Therapists in Sydenham, VIC

New Heights Therapy
Social Worker, AMHSW
Sydenham, VIC 3037
We are a counselling and psychology practice in the western suburbs of Melbourne. Our team comprises psychologists and mental health social workers, all of whom are fully qualified members of either AHPRA or AASW. At New Heights therapy we believe that every human holds within their being, the ability to affect change and to rise to their full potential, one step at a time. Our staff are trained to support clients across the lifespan, upholding the values of self-determination, respect and human dignity.
We are a counselling and psychology practice in the western suburbs of Melbourne. Our team comprises psychologists and mental health social workers, all of whom are fully qualified members of either AHPRA or AASW. At New Heights therapy we believe that every human holds within their being, the ability to affect change and to rise to their full potential, one step at a time. Our staff are trained to support clients across the lifespan, upholding the values of self-determination, respect and human dignity.
(03) 7302 2430 View (03) 7302 2430
The Psychology and Therapy Clinic, Laura Smolcic
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Sydenham, VIC 3037
I use a range of evidence-based psychological therapies for Depression and Anxiety disorders, Trauma , Bipolar Disorder, Addictions, Work issues and Adjustment Disorders , Perfectionism and Eating Disorders.
I am passionate in helping people access evidence-based, research informed education, so people from all walks of life can find peace in their bodies. I want to educate as many people as I can, so I offer online programs on How to stop body comparing, How to stop Over (or Binge) eating: a 90 min Psychology reset & (coming soon) How to stop hating your body.
I use a range of evidence-based psychological therapies for Depression and Anxiety disorders, Trauma , Bipolar Disorder, Addictions, Work issues and Adjustment Disorders , Perfectionism and Eating Disorders.
I am passionate in helping people access evidence-based, research informed education, so people from all walks of life can find peace in their bodies. I want to educate as many people as I can, so I offer online programs on How to stop body comparing, How to stop Over (or Binge) eating: a 90 min Psychology reset & (coming soon) How to stop hating your body.
(03) 7302 2007 View (03) 7302 2007
Hilina Hagos
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello! My name is Hilina and I’m a licensed psychotherapist and counsellor dedicated to creating a safe, non-judgmental and supportive space you can explore your thoughts, emotions and life experiences. I work with individuals who are seeking clarity, healing and growth. Whether you're navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, identity challenges, or relationship issues, my approach is compassionate, culturally sensitive, and tailored to your unique needs. I deeply believe that everyone has the capacity for transformation and resilience- and therapy can be the space where that begins. Responses to inquiries within 2 business days:)
Hello! My name is Hilina and I’m a licensed psychotherapist and counsellor dedicated to creating a safe, non-judgmental and supportive space you can explore your thoughts, emotions and life experiences. I work with individuals who are seeking clarity, healing and growth. Whether you're navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, identity challenges, or relationship issues, my approach is compassionate, culturally sensitive, and tailored to your unique needs. I deeply believe that everyone has the capacity for transformation and resilience- and therapy can be the space where that begins. Responses to inquiries within 2 business days:)
(03) 7302 8049 View (03) 7302 8049
George Choipel
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Serves Area
I work with adults and young people experiencing stress and anxiety, depression, grief and loss, emotional dysregulation, trauma, or difficulties with behaviour change and substance use.
Holding dual Master’s degrees in Counselling and Social Ethics, I use evidence based and trauma-informed care to help clients navigate complex life decisions and identity conflicts. This structured, culturally sensitive approach fully equips children, youth, and adults to process and confidently live with major choices within their broader world.
I work with adults and young people experiencing stress and anxiety, depression, grief and loss, emotional dysregulation, trauma, or difficulties with behaviour change and substance use.
Holding dual Master’s degrees in Counselling and Social Ethics, I use evidence based and trauma-informed care to help clients navigate complex life decisions and identity conflicts. This structured, culturally sensitive approach fully equips children, youth, and adults to process and confidently live with major choices within their broader world.
(02) 3815 6912 View (02) 3815 6912

More Therapists Nearby

Alan Ling
Counsellor, PACFA
Online Only
I support adults experiencing anxiety, difficulties with addiction or recovery, and challenges with anger or emotional regulation.
My ideal client is an adult experiencing anxiety, emotional distress, or feeling unsettled during a life transition. They may be managing work, relationships, or recovery on the surface while feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck internally. Many have a history of complex stress, trauma, or mental health challenges and want support that feels grounded, respectful, and non-judgemental. Their goal is to better understand themselves, feel more emotionally steady, and reconnect with their values and sense of agency.
I support adults experiencing anxiety, difficulties with addiction or recovery, and challenges with anger or emotional regulation.
My ideal client is an adult experiencing anxiety, emotional distress, or feeling unsettled during a life transition. They may be managing work, relationships, or recovery on the surface while feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck internally. Many have a history of complex stress, trauma, or mental health challenges and want support that feels grounded, respectful, and non-judgemental. Their goal is to better understand themselves, feel more emotionally steady, and reconnect with their values and sense of agency.
(03) 6155 4987 View (03) 6155 4987
Ingrid Glanowski
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Northcote, VIC 3070
She works with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, stress, childhood trauma, addiction, self-esteem and grief.
Ingrid is registered psychologist who provides in person therapy to clients in Melbourne and online therapy to clients Australia wide. In therapy, the environment Ingrid creates is compassionate, animated and genuine. She enjoys building long-lasting and meaningful connections with clients, knowing that this can be a catalyst for a successful experience in therapy. Ingrid is specifically interested in clients who present with developmental/relational-trauma and utilises her knowledge of attachment theory and family systems to help clients develop a deeper understanding of themselves.
She works with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, stress, childhood trauma, addiction, self-esteem and grief.
Ingrid is registered psychologist who provides in person therapy to clients in Melbourne and online therapy to clients Australia wide. In therapy, the environment Ingrid creates is compassionate, animated and genuine. She enjoys building long-lasting and meaningful connections with clients, knowing that this can be a catalyst for a successful experience in therapy. Ingrid is specifically interested in clients who present with developmental/relational-trauma and utilises her knowledge of attachment theory and family systems to help clients develop a deeper understanding of themselves.
(03) 9994 1814 View (03) 9994 1814
Dr Madeleine Brygel
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Prahran, VIC 3181
I frequently work with anxiety, depression, addiction, grief and trauma.
I am a registered psychologist with a doctorate in clinical and forensic psychology. I also lecture part-time at Monash University.
I frequently work with anxiety, depression, addiction, grief and trauma.
I am a registered psychologist with a doctorate in clinical and forensic psychology. I also lecture part-time at Monash University.
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Lukas Wooller
Counsellor, MC, PACFA
3 Endorsed
Fitzroy North, VIC 3068
I support adults facing issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, addiction, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, perfectionism, and life transitions.
I often use Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), an evidence-based approach that helps people understand and work with their emotions rather than push them away. It can be a powerful and fruitful way to achieve healing. However, I always ensure that we don't close the door on other ways of working that help my clients find a way forward with their problems.
I support adults facing issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, addiction, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, perfectionism, and life transitions.
I often use Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), an evidence-based approach that helps people understand and work with their emotions rather than push them away. It can be a powerful and fruitful way to achieve healing. However, I always ensure that we don't close the door on other ways of working that help my clients find a way forward with their problems.
0466 066 618 View 0466 066 618
Mairead O'Connor
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Richmond, VIC 3121
I have experience in addiction and recovery, exploring the emotional, relational, and protective patterns beneath behaviours-often tied to grief, trauma, or disconnection.
I take a warm, relational, and trauma-informed approach to therapy. I believe meaningful change happens when you feel genuinely safe, understood, and able to explore your inner world with curiosity and care. I work with adults navigating a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, burnout, and emotional patterns that can feel hard to shift. I also work in a neuroaffirming way with people exploring their experiences of attention, energy, and regulation in a world that isn’t always built with difference in mind.
I have experience in addiction and recovery, exploring the emotional, relational, and protective patterns beneath behaviours-often tied to grief, trauma, or disconnection.
I take a warm, relational, and trauma-informed approach to therapy. I believe meaningful change happens when you feel genuinely safe, understood, and able to explore your inner world with curiosity and care. I work with adults navigating a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, burnout, and emotional patterns that can feel hard to shift. I also work in a neuroaffirming way with people exploring their experiences of attention, energy, and regulation in a world that isn’t always built with difference in mind.
(03) 7036 8795 View (03) 7036 8795
Angelique Marie Brown
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Croydon, VIC 3136
My work in therapy includes experience in a range of emotional and psychological issues including depression, anxiety disorders (OCD, panic & generalised anxiety), trauma and PTSD (including complex trauma of historical sexual abuse and childhood trauma), ADHD, relationship issues and personality disorders (such as BPD); as well as addiction problems (e.g. substance abuse, gambling, and pornography).
I have special interest in anxiety disorders - OCD, panic, social anxiety, and PTSD. I have also completed my endorsement as a Counselling Psychologist with AHPRA. NOTE: I am no longer providing face to face sessions in the Gippsland area.
My work in therapy includes experience in a range of emotional and psychological issues including depression, anxiety disorders (OCD, panic & generalised anxiety), trauma and PTSD (including complex trauma of historical sexual abuse and childhood trauma), ADHD, relationship issues and personality disorders (such as BPD); as well as addiction problems (e.g. substance abuse, gambling, and pornography).
I have special interest in anxiety disorders - OCD, panic, social anxiety, and PTSD. I have also completed my endorsement as a Counselling Psychologist with AHPRA. NOTE: I am no longer providing face to face sessions in the Gippsland area.
(03) 6118 7175 View (03) 6118 7175
Francesca Palazzolo
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with all sorts of issues including mental health, addictions and relationship issues to name a few.
I have over 10 years experience as a counsellor working in community health settings and now in private practice since 2024. I am an approved counsellor with Victims Services NSW and a PACFA Clinical Supervisor.
I work with all sorts of issues including mental health, addictions and relationship issues to name a few.
I have over 10 years experience as a counsellor working in community health settings and now in private practice since 2024. I am an approved counsellor with Victims Services NSW and a PACFA Clinical Supervisor.
(03) 6411 0202 View (03) 6411 0202
Vanessa Bryden-Jones
Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
Preston, VIC 3072
You may be struggling with relationships, self-worth, boundaries or emotional wellbeing, or navigating trauma, loss, addiction or significant change.
I work primarily from a psychodynamic, existential and attachment-based perspective, exploring the patterns that shape how we relate to ourselves and others. My approach is trauma-informed and integrative, drawing on a range of therapeutic perspectives to support deeper understanding and meaningful change.
You may be struggling with relationships, self-worth, boundaries or emotional wellbeing, or navigating trauma, loss, addiction or significant change.
I work primarily from a psychodynamic, existential and attachment-based perspective, exploring the patterns that shape how we relate to ourselves and others. My approach is trauma-informed and integrative, drawing on a range of therapeutic perspectives to support deeper understanding and meaningful change.
0421 209 156 View 0421 209 156
Gome Simfukwe
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Serves Area
My work experience has focused primarily in the Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) field as well as in working with individuals and communities impacted by natural disasters.
If you're looking for someone who understands what it's like to live in a foreign land and have to navigate multiple cultures, then I may just be that perfect fit for you. As a migrant living in Australia, I am aware of the challenges associated with cross cultural relationships at various levels including personal, work, education etc. I am professionally trained in counselling with a specific interest in trauma and its impacts on mental health.
My work experience has focused primarily in the Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) field as well as in working with individuals and communities impacted by natural disasters.
If you're looking for someone who understands what it's like to live in a foreign land and have to navigate multiple cultures, then I may just be that perfect fit for you. As a migrant living in Australia, I am aware of the challenges associated with cross cultural relationships at various levels including personal, work, education etc. I am professionally trained in counselling with a specific interest in trauma and its impacts on mental health.
(08) 6336 9977 View (08) 6336 9977
Romir Akhil
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Online Only
Hi, I’m Romir. I work especially well with men navigating identity struggles, addictive patterns, avoidance, and a sense of emotional or spiritual disconnection. You may look like you’re functioning on the outside, but underneath feel stuck, lost, or disconnected from yourself. Therapy can be a space to slow down, make sense of what’s happening, and begin finding your way back.
Hi, I’m Romir. I work especially well with men navigating identity struggles, addictive patterns, avoidance, and a sense of emotional or spiritual disconnection. You may look like you’re functioning on the outside, but underneath feel stuck, lost, or disconnected from yourself. Therapy can be a space to slow down, make sense of what’s happening, and begin finding your way back.
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Chris Van Der Pluym
Counsellor, AASW
Brunswick, VIC 3056
In Brunswick, Bundoora and Whittlesea Victoria. Check my website for more information on locations. Let's discover your story together and understand why it feels as though you're stuck and look for ways to move forward. We can demystify your anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other challenges to find out what they are and where they have come from, and apply grounded strategies with support to help you make changes, move forward, and start kicking goals.
In Brunswick, Bundoora and Whittlesea Victoria. Check my website for more information on locations. Let's discover your story together and understand why it feels as though you're stuck and look for ways to move forward. We can demystify your anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other challenges to find out what they are and where they have come from, and apply grounded strategies with support to help you make changes, move forward, and start kicking goals.
(03) 9716 3322 View (03) 9716 3322
Emma Mansell
Counsellor, PsychD, ACA-L2
Melbourne, VIC 3000
Hello, my name is Emma, and I am an LGBTQIA+ therapist and consultant specialising in mental health and addiction support.
I specialise in LGBTQIA+ therapy, supporting individuals exploring their gender identity or transitioning. With a gentle, client-paced approach, I aim to create a safe space where you feel understood and respected. Having faced challenges myself, I’m here to offer compassion, guidance, and support tailored to your unique journey.
Hello, my name is Emma, and I am an LGBTQIA+ therapist and consultant specialising in mental health and addiction support.
I specialise in LGBTQIA+ therapy, supporting individuals exploring their gender identity or transitioning. With a gentle, client-paced approach, I aim to create a safe space where you feel understood and respected. Having faced challenges myself, I’m here to offer compassion, guidance, and support tailored to your unique journey.
(02) 8403 2271 View (02) 8403 2271
Amy Somers
Counsellor, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Saint Kilda East, VIC 3183
Often people with adhd/high sensitivity can experience unique challenges with emotions, addiction, decision-making, relationships, and self-worth.
My areas of expertise and interest are working with adhd/high sensitivity, and also psychedelic therapy. I work with highly sensitive and neurodiverse individuals, specialising in untangling adhd, high-sensitivity and trauma. You might have a late diagnosis or may just find a greater sense of self-understanding and self-compassion through the lense of adhd/high sensitivity. You've possibly masked your whole life, keeping it together on the outside, but perhaps in periods of transition (relationships, life stages, careers) everything feels so overwhelming.
Often people with adhd/high sensitivity can experience unique challenges with emotions, addiction, decision-making, relationships, and self-worth.
My areas of expertise and interest are working with adhd/high sensitivity, and also psychedelic therapy. I work with highly sensitive and neurodiverse individuals, specialising in untangling adhd, high-sensitivity and trauma. You might have a late diagnosis or may just find a greater sense of self-understanding and self-compassion through the lense of adhd/high sensitivity. You've possibly masked your whole life, keeping it together on the outside, but perhaps in periods of transition (relationships, life stages, careers) everything feels so overwhelming.
(08) 7744 7536 View (08) 7744 7536
Louise Du Chesne
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Melbourne, VIC 3000
She works with couples and individuals around their intimate personal relationships as well as with individuals who experience addiction, anxiety and depression.
From a treatment perspective, Louise adopts a relational approach and is trained in a number of modalities including relational psychotherapy, Gestalt therapy, Schema therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. She uses Sue Johnson’s Emotionally Focused Therapy in her work with couples.
She works with couples and individuals around their intimate personal relationships as well as with individuals who experience addiction, anxiety and depression.
From a treatment perspective, Louise adopts a relational approach and is trained in a number of modalities including relational psychotherapy, Gestalt therapy, Schema therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. She uses Sue Johnson’s Emotionally Focused Therapy in her work with couples.
(02) 4504 0154 View (02) 4504 0154
Catherine O'Leary -first things first counselling
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am an experienced trauma-&IFS-informed therapist. I work well with people who are ready to do 'the work'. I briefly bring strategies that can be useful to your everyday life initially, relying on modalities such as mindfulness and polyvagal theory, before moving into deeper work based in Internal Family Systems (IFS), if and when the time is right. I assist/guide you to reveal and heal the parts of you that carry thoughts, feelings and behaviours that no longer serve you. It is not always doom and gloom. We work together light-heartedly to safely reveal your unconscious motivations and inner strength, towards lasting healing.
I am an experienced trauma-&IFS-informed therapist. I work well with people who are ready to do 'the work'. I briefly bring strategies that can be useful to your everyday life initially, relying on modalities such as mindfulness and polyvagal theory, before moving into deeper work based in Internal Family Systems (IFS), if and when the time is right. I assist/guide you to reveal and heal the parts of you that carry thoughts, feelings and behaviours that no longer serve you. It is not always doom and gloom. We work together light-heartedly to safely reveal your unconscious motivations and inner strength, towards lasting healing.
(02) 9100 0725 View (02) 9100 0725
Melissa Smoker
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Greensborough, VIC 3088
Melissa currently provides individual therapy to teens and adults experiencing a range of issues including trauma, sleep concerns, addictions, life transitions, general anxiety, depression, stress and burnout, ADHD coaching.
I am currently accepting new referrals - book through my booking link via my website
Melissa currently provides individual therapy to teens and adults experiencing a range of issues including trauma, sleep concerns, addictions, life transitions, general anxiety, depression, stress and burnout, ADHD coaching.
I am currently accepting new referrals - book through my booking link via my website
(03) 8400 0989 View (03) 8400 0989
Addiction Therapists
What is the best therapy for addiction?
Addiction treatment will be tailored to the individual. People seeking help for addiction—whether with a psychotherapist, in an outpatient clinic, or in a residential program—should expect to engage in multiple types of treatments, sometimes including medication. For anyone recovering from addiction, avoiding situations in which one has typically used a substance is essential, as is the support of close connections. Since substance use disorders tend to co-occur with underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression, those must also be addressed as part of any recovery plan.

How long does therapy for addiction take?
There is no set timeline for recovery from addiction. Patients and their families should expect the work to last several months, if not longer. Residential treatment programs may be based on a stay of 30, 60, or 90 days, with continuing work after release, but only about 1 percent of people are treated in such facilities. Ceasing use is just the first step; therapy to help maintain abstinence and effect behavior change must follow. The process of recovery, neuroscience has shown, involves brain cells recovering the capacity to respond to natural sources of reward and restore control over the impulse to use. Another definition of recovery is restoring voluntary control over one’s substance use and retaking all of one’s previous responsibilities.

How effective is drug addiction treatment?
Substance use disorders are treatable and remission is achievable for many who seek recovery; by some estimates, more than three-quarters of people who become addicted to alcohol or drugs recover. But that success rarely occurs quickly or on a set timeline; relapse is not only common, but many therapists and clinicians view it as a normal part of the process—not always a sign that a person has returned to addiction, but a signal that their treatment should be adjusted to help them regain control. Overall, research suggests, five years after the end of substance use, one’s risk of relapse is no greater than that of others who had not faced addiction. Other experts believe that complete abstinence is not the only measure of recovery, and that, through effective treatment, many people can learn to control their use.

How can you get addiction treatment for someone?
The most important factor in recovery from addiction is widely understood to be an individual’s commitment to change. For that reason,“interventions” in which friends and family gather to urge or force someone to begin immediate treatment often backfire; even when such efforts do lead someone to begin treatment, they may be less likely to stay than those who are self-driven. Still, family members can play an important role in supporting an individual who seeks help and can take part in family therapy as one element of a loved one’s treatment.