Domestic Abuse Psychologists and Therapists in Thornbury, VIC

Paula Lay
Social Worker, MA, AASW
Thornbury, VIC 3071
I am a social worker, sensorimotor psychotherapist, and yoga teacher specialising in working with trauma, anxiety, and depression. My therapeutic approach includes working at the intersection of body-centred practices including sensorimotor psychotherapy, yoga, mindfulness and somatics, as well as bringing a social justice, intersectional lens.Through centring the wisdom of the body and felt-experience and supported by practices that nourish and expand nervous system self-regulation capacity, my aim is to create a kind and safe space within the therapeutic relationship to make space for healing, growth and transformation.
I am a social worker, sensorimotor psychotherapist, and yoga teacher specialising in working with trauma, anxiety, and depression. My therapeutic approach includes working at the intersection of body-centred practices including sensorimotor psychotherapy, yoga, mindfulness and somatics, as well as bringing a social justice, intersectional lens.Through centring the wisdom of the body and felt-experience and supported by practices that nourish and expand nervous system self-regulation capacity, my aim is to create a kind and safe space within the therapeutic relationship to make space for healing, growth and transformation.
0412 952 786 View 0412 952 786
Meld Therapy
Counsellor, MC, PACFA
Thornbury, VIC 3071
With a Master’s qualification in Counselling Psychology and experience across the community sector—working in family violence, family therapy, and mental health—as well as private practice, she supports individuals navigating trauma, emotional regulation difficulties, identity and relationships.
Her work integrates parts-based therapy (Resource Therapy and Internal Family Systems), Somatic Psychology, RI-EMDR and EMDR as core modalities, alongside Attachment-based Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Trauma-Informed CBT, Schema Therapy, and Existential Therapy.
With a Master’s qualification in Counselling Psychology and experience across the community sector—working in family violence, family therapy, and mental health—as well as private practice, she supports individuals navigating trauma, emotional regulation difficulties, identity and relationships.
Her work integrates parts-based therapy (Resource Therapy and Internal Family Systems), Somatic Psychology, RI-EMDR and EMDR as core modalities, alongside Attachment-based Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Trauma-Informed CBT, Schema Therapy, and Existential Therapy.
(03) 7003 2395 View (03) 7003 2395
Accessible Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Online Only
I believe the most effective therapy happens when you feel heard, respected, and actively involved in your own care. You know yourself better than anyone else, and my role is to work alongside you, helping you understand patterns, build practical skills, and move towards the life you want using evidence-based approaches tailored to your goals. Through Accessible Psychology, I provide Australia-wide telehealth, increasing access to quality mental health care for people in remote communities and for those who find face-to-face appointments difficult, overwhelming, or impractical.
I believe the most effective therapy happens when you feel heard, respected, and actively involved in your own care. You know yourself better than anyone else, and my role is to work alongside you, helping you understand patterns, build practical skills, and move towards the life you want using evidence-based approaches tailored to your goals. Through Accessible Psychology, I provide Australia-wide telehealth, increasing access to quality mental health care for people in remote communities and for those who find face-to-face appointments difficult, overwhelming, or impractical.
0466 329 626 View 0466 329 626
Justin West
Social Worker, MA, AASW
1 Endorsed
Thornbury, VIC 3071
Whether you are new to considering therapy or want to go deeper, I'm curious to hear your needs. I maintain that despite the difficulties in our lives, our systems are naturally oriented toward healing and wellbeing. Challenges through both environmental or internal stressors such as trauma, grief and loss, anxiety, and more complex issues of Neurodiversity or personality disorder are issues that can improve.
Whether you are new to considering therapy or want to go deeper, I'm curious to hear your needs. I maintain that despite the difficulties in our lives, our systems are naturally oriented toward healing and wellbeing. Challenges through both environmental or internal stressors such as trauma, grief and loss, anxiety, and more complex issues of Neurodiversity or personality disorder are issues that can improve.
(03) 8338 1605 View (03) 8338 1605
Sam Morgan
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Thornbury, VIC 3071
Sam (he/him) is a relational Gestalt therapist working with adults and older teens. His approach is grounded and warm, offering a steady presence for people who feel emotionally disconnected, stuck, or unsure how to make sense of their experience. With a focus on self-compassion and awareness, Sam supports clients to explore what’s been hard to hold alone and build a more authentic connection with themselves and others.
Sam (he/him) is a relational Gestalt therapist working with adults and older teens. His approach is grounded and warm, offering a steady presence for people who feel emotionally disconnected, stuck, or unsure how to make sense of their experience. With a focus on self-compassion and awareness, Sam supports clients to explore what’s been hard to hold alone and build a more authentic connection with themselves and others.
0479 098 508 View 0479 098 508
Sarah Branchflower
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Thornbury, VIC 3071
I have a friendly, down-to-earth approach and work hard to develop a positive and trusting relationship where clients feel truly heard and supported. I have over a decade of experience supporting adults and adolescents through a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, perinatal mental health concerns, trauma, stress management, life adjustments, and parenting concerns. I have a special passion for perinatal mental health and supporting clients through the transformative journey of becoming parents.
I have a friendly, down-to-earth approach and work hard to develop a positive and trusting relationship where clients feel truly heard and supported. I have over a decade of experience supporting adults and adolescents through a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, perinatal mental health concerns, trauma, stress management, life adjustments, and parenting concerns. I have a special passion for perinatal mental health and supporting clients through the transformative journey of becoming parents.
0490 885 879 View 0490 885 879
Carly Dober
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Thornbury, VIC 3071
I work with people of various cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds in both specialist health services (justice, family violence), schools (from Prep to Year 12) and specialist mental health services (adult residential services).
I focus on equipping clients with psychological skills and strategies drawing from the most up-to-date evidence-based therapeutic models so that the clients I see are able to thrive and succeed with what life throws their way. I use a person-centred, strength-based approach in the working relationship.
I work with people of various cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds in both specialist health services (justice, family violence), schools (from Prep to Year 12) and specialist mental health services (adult residential services).
I focus on equipping clients with psychological skills and strategies drawing from the most up-to-date evidence-based therapeutic models so that the clients I see are able to thrive and succeed with what life throws their way. I use a person-centred, strength-based approach in the working relationship.
1300 286 125 View 1300 286 125
Ronnie Adamowicz
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
Are you feeling stuck, like something important is missing from your life, but you can't quite put your finger on it? Do you find it challenging to have your emotional needs met in relationships? Are you trapped in repetitive patterns, struggling to define healthy boundaries? There is a reason behind these struggles, and together, we will uncover what is holding you back, providing you with the clarity and confidence needed to turn things around. I specialize in somatic therapy, an approach that dives deep into the core of unresolved trauma within the body, facilitating rapid healing.
Are you feeling stuck, like something important is missing from your life, but you can't quite put your finger on it? Do you find it challenging to have your emotional needs met in relationships? Are you trapped in repetitive patterns, struggling to define healthy boundaries? There is a reason behind these struggles, and together, we will uncover what is holding you back, providing you with the clarity and confidence needed to turn things around. I specialize in somatic therapy, an approach that dives deep into the core of unresolved trauma within the body, facilitating rapid healing.
(03) 7037 6993 View (03) 7037 6993
Jess Mackenzie
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Serves Area
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
Christina Pitter
Social Worker, MA, AASW
Serves Area
She works with people whose lives have been affected by childhood & adult trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family violence, and the impact of identity, family, ethnic and cultural issues on mental health.
Christina has studied meditation & mindfulness-based therapies, self-compassion therapy and non-violent communication. She has worked at the Centre Against Sexual Assault, Women’s Social Support Services (RWH), Pregnancy Advisory Services, the Foundation for Torture and Trauma and as a fertility counsellor with individuals and couples.
She works with people whose lives have been affected by childhood & adult trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family violence, and the impact of identity, family, ethnic and cultural issues on mental health.
Christina has studied meditation & mindfulness-based therapies, self-compassion therapy and non-violent communication. She has worked at the Centre Against Sexual Assault, Women’s Social Support Services (RWH), Pregnancy Advisory Services, the Foundation for Torture and Trauma and as a fertility counsellor with individuals and couples.
(02) 4504 0245 View (02) 4504 0245
Creative Healing counselling & art therapy
Social Worker, AMHSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to start? Maybe anxiety, depression, or ADHD is holding you back. Perhaps you’re a parent watching your child struggle with emotions or social challenges, or you’re juggling work and life and feeling burnt out. You’re here because you want something to change. You want clarity, balance, and tools that actually help. You want to feel confident, connected, and in control of your life. Whatever your goals—emotional regulation, better relationships, or finding calm in the chaos—I’m here to help you achieve them.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to start? Maybe anxiety, depression, or ADHD is holding you back. Perhaps you’re a parent watching your child struggle with emotions or social challenges, or you’re juggling work and life and feeling burnt out. You’re here because you want something to change. You want clarity, balance, and tools that actually help. You want to feel confident, connected, and in control of your life. Whatever your goals—emotional regulation, better relationships, or finding calm in the chaos—I’m here to help you achieve them.
(03) 9068 5833 View (03) 9068 5833
Allison Browning
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Serves Area
I'm an accredited Medicare registered therapist (AMHSW) with rebates available. I work with trauma, anxiety, mental health issues, grief and loss. I am highly experienced in the area of complex trauma and have a deep understanding of the ways this impacts everyday life and connections. Around trauma, I work both somatically and with talk therapy. I offer a safe and accepting space for members of the LGBTIQ+ community, providing support and understanding around issues such as coming out, gender identity, dysphoria and exploring sexual orientation. I use evidence-based therapeutic approaches to work in a person-centred holistic way.
I'm an accredited Medicare registered therapist (AMHSW) with rebates available. I work with trauma, anxiety, mental health issues, grief and loss. I am highly experienced in the area of complex trauma and have a deep understanding of the ways this impacts everyday life and connections. Around trauma, I work both somatically and with talk therapy. I offer a safe and accepting space for members of the LGBTIQ+ community, providing support and understanding around issues such as coming out, gender identity, dysphoria and exploring sexual orientation. I use evidence-based therapeutic approaches to work in a person-centred holistic way.
(02) 4504 0207 View (02) 4504 0207
Arnaud Domange
Counsellor, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
You may be seeking a deeper understanding of what sits beneath the symptoms or struggles you experience. While tension, emotional reactivity, shutdown, or familiar ways of coping may show up on the surface, you sense there are layers underneath—unresolved emotions, inner conflicts, or protective patterns that developed over time. You may want help understanding what you avoid, what feels overwhelming, and why certain patterns keep returning. You’re looking for support, connection, and clarity, with the aim of greater emotional freedom, authenticity, and lasting change.
You may be seeking a deeper understanding of what sits beneath the symptoms or struggles you experience. While tension, emotional reactivity, shutdown, or familiar ways of coping may show up on the surface, you sense there are layers underneath—unresolved emotions, inner conflicts, or protective patterns that developed over time. You may want help understanding what you avoid, what feels overwhelming, and why certain patterns keep returning. You’re looking for support, connection, and clarity, with the aim of greater emotional freedom, authenticity, and lasting change.
0408 343 875 View 0408 343 875
Shey Cooper
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I currently have availability to take on a few new clients. I support individuals with a broad range of clinical needs in a non-judgmental, neuro-affirming and holistic way, utilising evidence based treatments. I provide a nurturing and safe space, and use a strength based, supportive and collaborative approach. My goal is to assist individuals in gaining greater insight and self-awareness, to enhance their emotional well-being, with the aim of supporting them to reach their full potential and thrive.
I currently have availability to take on a few new clients. I support individuals with a broad range of clinical needs in a non-judgmental, neuro-affirming and holistic way, utilising evidence based treatments. I provide a nurturing and safe space, and use a strength based, supportive and collaborative approach. My goal is to assist individuals in gaining greater insight and self-awareness, to enhance their emotional well-being, with the aim of supporting them to reach their full potential and thrive.
(03) 7037 6950 View (03) 7037 6950
Fitzroy North Counselling
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Serves Area
Karen works with adolescents, adults & couples. She has a particular interest in anxiety, depression, trauma, identity, grief, life transitions, & communication and relationships. In her confidential counselling space she helps clarify issues, identify goals, & explores thinking, emotions, and behaviour that may be getting us a little stuck. Karen provides a warm, authentic counselling space that will support you in sharing your story, in creating your own meaning, and in building your own strategies to navigate your identified concerns.
Karen works with adolescents, adults & couples. She has a particular interest in anxiety, depression, trauma, identity, grief, life transitions, & communication and relationships. In her confidential counselling space she helps clarify issues, identify goals, & explores thinking, emotions, and behaviour that may be getting us a little stuck. Karen provides a warm, authentic counselling space that will support you in sharing your story, in creating your own meaning, and in building your own strategies to navigate your identified concerns.
(03) 7003 2721 View (03) 7003 2721
Bita Riazati - Anxiety Depression Relationships
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or finding the same difficulties keep returning, therapy offers a place to talk things through at your own pace. I’m a Melbourne-based psychologist working with adults and young people in ongoing sessions, where we can make sense of what’s happening and find a way forward - please feel free to call or enquire via my website.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or finding the same difficulties keep returning, therapy offers a place to talk things through at your own pace. I’m a Melbourne-based psychologist working with adults and young people in ongoing sessions, where we can make sense of what’s happening and find a way forward - please feel free to call or enquire via my website.
(03) 5907 1828 View (03) 5907 1828
Sam Solly
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I am a Clinical Psychologist who believes you are already whole. Therapy is an invitation to reconnect with your inner wisdom and the part of you that knows what is true. I work intuitively, drawing from EMDR, somatic therapies, mindfulness, Polyvagal Theory, the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), and nature-based approaches. Together, we explore your patterns, build capacity for life’s challenges, and create space for greater connection, authenticity and ease.
I am a Clinical Psychologist who believes you are already whole. Therapy is an invitation to reconnect with your inner wisdom and the part of you that knows what is true. I work intuitively, drawing from EMDR, somatic therapies, mindfulness, Polyvagal Theory, the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), and nature-based approaches. Together, we explore your patterns, build capacity for life’s challenges, and create space for greater connection, authenticity and ease.
View
Chris Carter
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Serves Area
I work with adults with depression, anxiety, personality difficulties and substance use, as well as family and relationship issues, gender and sexuality, anger, life direction, trauma, abuse, self harm and suicidal thoughts.
I offer personal sessions locally and telehealth and phone sessions locally and remotely. My fee is negotiable for those experiencing significant hardship. I can offer Medicare and private health rebates.
I work with adults with depression, anxiety, personality difficulties and substance use, as well as family and relationship issues, gender and sexuality, anger, life direction, trauma, abuse, self harm and suicidal thoughts.
I offer personal sessions locally and telehealth and phone sessions locally and remotely. My fee is negotiable for those experiencing significant hardship. I can offer Medicare and private health rebates.
(03) 9111 5364 View (03) 9111 5364
Leyna Fennell
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
Relationship Therapist and Clinical Supervisor, working with individuals, couples & families. I will work with you to strengthen your relationships with self and others, through careful exploration of your emotional landscape, attending to any emotional blocks holding you back from relating well. Attention given to enhancing communication and supporting expressions of more vulnerable emotions and experiences. Special interest working with challenges related to love, desire, sex and intimacy. My interest and focus surrounds exploring issues through the lens of relationship- whether that be intimate or other.
Relationship Therapist and Clinical Supervisor, working with individuals, couples & families. I will work with you to strengthen your relationships with self and others, through careful exploration of your emotional landscape, attending to any emotional blocks holding you back from relating well. Attention given to enhancing communication and supporting expressions of more vulnerable emotions and experiences. Special interest working with challenges related to love, desire, sex and intimacy. My interest and focus surrounds exploring issues through the lens of relationship- whether that be intimate or other.
(03) 8592 9269 View (03) 8592 9269

More Therapists Nearby

Enrei Counselling
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, trauma, grief or identity struggles? You don’t have to face it alone. I’m Audrey, the counsellor behind Enrei Counselling, providing trauma-informed, culturally sensitive support to adults across Australia. Together, we’ll create a safe, compassionate space to gently explore your emotions and attachment experiences. Through deepening emotional awareness, we’ll heal relational wounds, strengthen your connections, and build emotional resilience. You can expect greater emotional insight, healing from past hurts, practical tools for managing anxiety and grief, and support that honours your identity.
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, trauma, grief or identity struggles? You don’t have to face it alone. I’m Audrey, the counsellor behind Enrei Counselling, providing trauma-informed, culturally sensitive support to adults across Australia. Together, we’ll create a safe, compassionate space to gently explore your emotions and attachment experiences. Through deepening emotional awareness, we’ll heal relational wounds, strengthen your connections, and build emotional resilience. You can expect greater emotional insight, healing from past hurts, practical tools for managing anxiety and grief, and support that honours your identity.
(02) 5133 6270 View (02) 5133 6270

See more therapy options for Thornbury

Domestic Abuse Therapists
What are the most effective ways to recover from domestic abuse?
Leaving an abusive relationship requires tremendous courage, so survivors in treatment should recognise that they have already completed the most important step. Still, the trauma of physical or emotional abuse can be difficult to process and overcome. Therapy can help survivors process trauma, grief, and difficult emotions, treat relevant mental health symptoms, and create a new framework for boundaries and relationships in the future. For some, support groups can also be an invaluable outlet for healing.

When should an individual seek help for domestic abuse?
Victims of intimate partner violence should seek help immediately. It can take substantial time, planning, energy, and courage to leave an abusive relationship, but starting the process—by seeking therapy, calling the domestic violence hotline, or simply confiding in a loved one—will help them get there. Those who have left abusive relationships but haven’t sought treatment can also greatly benefit from therapy to process and heal from the experience.

What are the consequences of staying in an abusive relationship?
Remaining in an abusive relationship has serious repercussions. In addition to the ongoing threat of physical danger and emotional abuse, research shows that intimate partner violence is associated with a range of mental health disorders including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and substance abuse. Therefore it’s important for individuals in an abusive relationship to seek help as soon as possible.

How can you get domestic abuse treatment for someone else?
It can be very complicated to identify and leave an abusive relationship; barriers include the threat of violence, financial instability, and family pressures. Those concerned about a loved one in an abusive relationship should talk to them about the situation, provide them with resources such as the domestic violence hotline, and introduce the idea of seeing a therapist due to their concern for the person’s safety and well-being.