Somatic Psychologists and Therapists in Upper Ferntree Gully, VIC

Hannah Bruce
Counsellor, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Her approach is warm, practical and trauma-informed, drawing on EFT, somatic counselling, motivational interviewing and the Blue Knot Foundation’s guidelines for complex trauma.
Her areas of speciality include: • Childhood trauma and sexual abuse • Complex PTSD and dissociation • Attachment and relational trauma • Substance use and addiction • Victims of crime and institutional harm • Emotional regulation, grief, and identity
Her approach is warm, practical and trauma-informed, drawing on EFT, somatic counselling, motivational interviewing and the Blue Knot Foundation’s guidelines for complex trauma.
Her areas of speciality include: • Childhood trauma and sexual abuse • Complex PTSD and dissociation • Attachment and relational trauma • Substance use and addiction • Victims of crime and institutional harm • Emotional regulation, grief, and identity
(03) 8203 5751 View (03) 8203 5751
Julia Yarzar
Social Worker, AASW
1 Endorsed
Specialising in somatic (body based) and trauma-informed practices, helping to deepen each individual's experience of their emotions and responses to daily life stress, parenting and trauma.
With over 15 years of Social Work practice experience, and as a qualified Embodied Processing Practitioner, and most importantly a mother of two neurodivergent children I offer a safe, trauma-informed place for you to explore your emotions, experience your nervous system, understand your reactions and help you navigate the immense job of being a care-giver.
Specialising in somatic (body based) and trauma-informed practices, helping to deepen each individual's experience of their emotions and responses to daily life stress, parenting and trauma.
With over 15 years of Social Work practice experience, and as a qualified Embodied Processing Practitioner, and most importantly a mother of two neurodivergent children I offer a safe, trauma-informed place for you to explore your emotions, experience your nervous system, understand your reactions and help you navigate the immense job of being a care-giver.
(03) 8203 5430 View (03) 8203 5430
Michelle Downs
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
I am an AMHSW, Accredited EMDR therapist, trained and experienced in attachment-EMDR and Advanced Clinical Resource Therapy. Specialising in c-PTSD, I work with adults impacted by childhood trauma and attachment disruption. Also with acute trauma from violence, SA, accidents, and first responders. As an outcome-focused therapist, I work with individuals to achieve effective and positive results. Understanding the importance of a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship, I naturally put people at ease and provide an open, honest, safe space without judgment. I work with people via NDIS, WorkSafe, GP referral and self referral.
I am an AMHSW, Accredited EMDR therapist, trained and experienced in attachment-EMDR and Advanced Clinical Resource Therapy. Specialising in c-PTSD, I work with adults impacted by childhood trauma and attachment disruption. Also with acute trauma from violence, SA, accidents, and first responders. As an outcome-focused therapist, I work with individuals to achieve effective and positive results. Understanding the importance of a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship, I naturally put people at ease and provide an open, honest, safe space without judgment. I work with people via NDIS, WorkSafe, GP referral and self referral.
(03) 5905 7112 View (03) 5905 7112
Ros Wilson
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
My ideal clients are women who look capable and successful on the outside but privately feel emotionally exhausted. Many grew up with emotionally immature or narcissistic parents and learnt that being responsible, keeping the peace, becoming the peacekeeper, or carrying everyone else's needs. They often struggle with people-pleasing, guilt, anxiety, self-doubt, hypervigilance, or difficulty setting boundaries. Together we'll make sense of these survival patterns, calm your nervous system, rebuild self-trust and healthy boundaries, help you reconnect with the woman you've always been beneath years of adapting to survive.
My ideal clients are women who look capable and successful on the outside but privately feel emotionally exhausted. Many grew up with emotionally immature or narcissistic parents and learnt that being responsible, keeping the peace, becoming the peacekeeper, or carrying everyone else's needs. They often struggle with people-pleasing, guilt, anxiety, self-doubt, hypervigilance, or difficulty setting boundaries. Together we'll make sense of these survival patterns, calm your nervous system, rebuild self-trust and healthy boundaries, help you reconnect with the woman you've always been beneath years of adapting to survive.
(03) 6146 3205 View (03) 6146 3205
Mindheart Therapy
Social Worker
Serves Area
My name is Lorraine Marsh, and if you have found your way here, then maybe you are looking for a different way to live your life. Have you lost a sense of your authentic self? What dreams have you let go of? Maybe you have never been encouraged to want something just for yourself? What are your intrinsic values? Would you like to understand thought and relationship patterns that no longer serve you? How can you rediscover what you love and to learn new skills to thrive? When was the last time you thought about what you wanted and took action to get it?
My name is Lorraine Marsh, and if you have found your way here, then maybe you are looking for a different way to live your life. Have you lost a sense of your authentic self? What dreams have you let go of? Maybe you have never been encouraged to want something just for yourself? What are your intrinsic values? Would you like to understand thought and relationship patterns that no longer serve you? How can you rediscover what you love and to learn new skills to thrive? When was the last time you thought about what you wanted and took action to get it?
(03) 5909 9829 View (03) 5909 9829

More Therapists Nearby

Olivia Campbell
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Fitzroy, VIC 3065
Hello, my name is Olivia (she/her). I am a clinical psychologist and I help people who are thoughtful, self-reflective, and interested in developing a deeper understanding of themselves, their relationships, and their emotional patterns. My clients are typically high-functioning, emotionally curious, and motivated to engage in reflective work. Over time, they commonly report feeling more self-aware, confident, and better able to respond (rather than react) to life’s challenges.
Hello, my name is Olivia (she/her). I am a clinical psychologist and I help people who are thoughtful, self-reflective, and interested in developing a deeper understanding of themselves, their relationships, and their emotional patterns. My clients are typically high-functioning, emotionally curious, and motivated to engage in reflective work. Over time, they commonly report feeling more self-aware, confident, and better able to respond (rather than react) to life’s challenges.
(03) 7042 9961 View (03) 7042 9961
Stonewater Art Therapy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Ferntree Gully, VIC 3156
Hi, I'm Samuel (He/They/She/Any) and I'm a non-binary/genderfluid Arts Psychotherapist. In life I have used the creative arts as a way of understanding, listening to and responding to my experiences and inner conflicts. I’m passionate about integrating our inner and outer selves and believe in the value the arts offer in encountering resources and parts of ourselves which aren’t accessed in normal daily life. I offer a gentle, non-judgemental and inclusive therapeutic space for you to reveal yourself as we explore struggles, hopes and what growth and resolution looks like for you at this time.
Hi, I'm Samuel (He/They/She/Any) and I'm a non-binary/genderfluid Arts Psychotherapist. In life I have used the creative arts as a way of understanding, listening to and responding to my experiences and inner conflicts. I’m passionate about integrating our inner and outer selves and believe in the value the arts offer in encountering resources and parts of ourselves which aren’t accessed in normal daily life. I offer a gentle, non-judgemental and inclusive therapeutic space for you to reveal yourself as we explore struggles, hopes and what growth and resolution looks like for you at this time.
(03) 8203 5271 View (03) 8203 5271
STIA Psychology - Essendon
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Essendon, VIC 3040
We offer individual therapy for a number of clinical conditions including: personality disorders, trauma, mood disorders, eating disorders & body image, substance use, anxiety & OCD , anger and related behaviours, couples & families, emotional dysregulation, and attachment Styles & relationship difficulties.
We offer individual therapy for a number of clinical conditions including: personality disorders, trauma, mood disorders, eating disorders & body image, substance use, anxiety & OCD , anger and related behaviours, couples & families, emotional dysregulation, and attachment Styles & relationship difficulties.
(03) 9007 2433 View (03) 9007 2433
Abira Siddiqui
Social Worker, AMHSW
Coburg, VIC 3058
Through somatic and nervous system-informed approaches, she supports clients to gently build awareness, regulate emotions, and develop a stronger sense of internal safety.
Abira offers a warm, grounded space where individuals can slow down, feel supported, and begin to reconnect with themselves. Her work centres on building safety, trust, and genuine connection, allowing clients to explore their experiences at a pace that feels right for them. She works with adults and young people navigating trauma, emotional overwhelm, identity, and complex life experiences. Sessions are collaborative and attuned, creating space for reflection, skill-building, and deeper exploration—without pressure or expectation.
Through somatic and nervous system-informed approaches, she supports clients to gently build awareness, regulate emotions, and develop a stronger sense of internal safety.
Abira offers a warm, grounded space where individuals can slow down, feel supported, and begin to reconnect with themselves. Her work centres on building safety, trust, and genuine connection, allowing clients to explore their experiences at a pace that feels right for them. She works with adults and young people navigating trauma, emotional overwhelm, identity, and complex life experiences. Sessions are collaborative and attuned, creating space for reflection, skill-building, and deeper exploration—without pressure or expectation.
(03) 7303 3146 View (03) 7303 3146
Lara Graves
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Fitzroy North, VIC 3068
Hi, I’m Lara (she/her), a registered psychologist and proud queer woman of trans experience, dedicated to supporting individuals across diverse genders, sexualities, and neurotypes. With lived experience within kink, queer, and poly/RA communities, I bring a deeply affirming, intersectional lens to my practice, understanding firsthand the impact of stigma, marginalisation, and systemic barriers on mental health. I am committed to providing trauma-informed, client-led, strengths-based care that celebrates neurodiversity and fosters authentic self-expression.
Hi, I’m Lara (she/her), a registered psychologist and proud queer woman of trans experience, dedicated to supporting individuals across diverse genders, sexualities, and neurotypes. With lived experience within kink, queer, and poly/RA communities, I bring a deeply affirming, intersectional lens to my practice, understanding firsthand the impact of stigma, marginalisation, and systemic barriers on mental health. I am committed to providing trauma-informed, client-led, strengths-based care that celebrates neurodiversity and fosters authentic self-expression.
(02) 9420 3143 View (02) 9420 3143
Novi C Sutanto
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
1 Endorsed
Coburg, VIC 3058
With a mindfulness and somatic-based approach, we'll work in the present moment experience to investigate patterns of conscious and unconscious beliefs & behaviours.
I work with individuals (and couples) who are interested in learning more about themselves and how they can relate to themselves and others in a healthier way. We all have moments where we could use that extra support, whether it is going through a major life change or wanting one to happen. My door is always open to all kinds of diversity and I strive towards understanding each person's experiences in managing differences, that may show up as anxiety, depression, burnout, relationship issues; as we move towards a deeper sense of belonging and a more rewarding life, through practices in mindfulness and gentle self-inquiry.
With a mindfulness and somatic-based approach, we'll work in the present moment experience to investigate patterns of conscious and unconscious beliefs & behaviours.
I work with individuals (and couples) who are interested in learning more about themselves and how they can relate to themselves and others in a healthier way. We all have moments where we could use that extra support, whether it is going through a major life change or wanting one to happen. My door is always open to all kinds of diversity and I strive towards understanding each person's experiences in managing differences, that may show up as anxiety, depression, burnout, relationship issues; as we move towards a deeper sense of belonging and a more rewarding life, through practices in mindfulness and gentle self-inquiry.
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Jenny Leanne Walker
Social Worker, AASW
Prahran, VIC 3181
I work with adults (18–35) navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship challenges. My goal is to help you reconnect with what truly matters so you can live with more purpose and fulfillment. I take a Humanistic approach, grounded in the belief that everyone has the capacity to create a meaningful life in their own unique way
I work with adults (18–35) navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship challenges. My goal is to help you reconnect with what truly matters so you can live with more purpose and fulfillment. I take a Humanistic approach, grounded in the belief that everyone has the capacity to create a meaningful life in their own unique way
0415 731 517 View 0415 731 517
Anke Bezuidenhout
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
I am passionate about listening to people and helping them make sense of their personal stories. My diverse experience spans schools, early childhood intervention centres and private practice where I have worked predominantly with young adults, autism spectrum disorder, and culturally and linguistically diverse clients (particularly from regions across Asia and the Middle East). I work with clients seeking support for life transitions and adjustments; anxiety, stress and low mood; attachment and relationship patterns; values, identity exploration, and self-understanding.
I am passionate about listening to people and helping them make sense of their personal stories. My diverse experience spans schools, early childhood intervention centres and private practice where I have worked predominantly with young adults, autism spectrum disorder, and culturally and linguistically diverse clients (particularly from regions across Asia and the Middle East). I work with clients seeking support for life transitions and adjustments; anxiety, stress and low mood; attachment and relationship patterns; values, identity exploration, and self-understanding.
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Jaen Andrews
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Online Only
I use a blend of emotion focused therapy, somatic therapy and person centred therapy, as well as a sprinkling of CBT and DBT.
I have a gentle, trauma informed approach to counselling and will use a variety of different techniques. I will commonly draw on Emotion Focused Therapy, Somatic Therapy and Gottman techniques tailored to your individual situation. I have a special interest in supporting people with chronic pain, particularly women and vulva owners.
I use a blend of emotion focused therapy, somatic therapy and person centred therapy, as well as a sprinkling of CBT and DBT.
I have a gentle, trauma informed approach to counselling and will use a variety of different techniques. I will commonly draw on Emotion Focused Therapy, Somatic Therapy and Gottman techniques tailored to your individual situation. I have a special interest in supporting people with chronic pain, particularly women and vulva owners.
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Anthony Hansen
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Online Only
You might be here because the bad days never seem to end.... perhaps you're feeling emotionally exhausted, disconnected or you’re stuck in a cycle of negative thought patterns like, “I’m not good enough” or “I'll never change or get better”. Maybe you're struggling with anxiety, chronic stress, fatigue, depression, emotional numbness, difficult memories.... or past traumatic experiences that continues to affect your life today? There may be tension in your body that feels more emotional in origin, or you're feeling disconnected from yourself and others. Perhaps it's finally beginning to take a toll on you, or your relationships?
You might be here because the bad days never seem to end.... perhaps you're feeling emotionally exhausted, disconnected or you’re stuck in a cycle of negative thought patterns like, “I’m not good enough” or “I'll never change or get better”. Maybe you're struggling with anxiety, chronic stress, fatigue, depression, emotional numbness, difficult memories.... or past traumatic experiences that continues to affect your life today? There may be tension in your body that feels more emotional in origin, or you're feeling disconnected from yourself and others. Perhaps it's finally beginning to take a toll on you, or your relationships?
(07) 2100 4484 View (07) 2100 4484
Emma Fuller
Psychologist, MA, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Pakenham, VIC 3810
Using a combination of EMDR, parts work (including Internal Family Systems-informed approaches), somatic therapy, and nervous system regulation, ACT, CBT.
Are you longing for more than just coping? You may have tried therapy before—but you're still left with patterns that don’t shift, emotions that feel stuck, or a nervous system that never quite settles. If you're ready to explore the deeper layers of your inner world, I offer a gentle, evidence-based approach to healing that goes beyond surface-level change. I work with clients who are curious about how they’re put together—those who want to understand not just what they feel, but why.
Using a combination of EMDR, parts work (including Internal Family Systems-informed approaches), somatic therapy, and nervous system regulation, ACT, CBT.
Are you longing for more than just coping? You may have tried therapy before—but you're still left with patterns that don’t shift, emotions that feel stuck, or a nervous system that never quite settles. If you're ready to explore the deeper layers of your inner world, I offer a gentle, evidence-based approach to healing that goes beyond surface-level change. I work with clients who are curious about how they’re put together—those who want to understand not just what they feel, but why.
(03) 5910 7894 View (03) 5910 7894
Nina Isabella
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Serves Area
I am an ACA Level 3 registered dedicated women’s health counsellor, trauma-informed mental health clinician, childbirth educator, and somatic psychotherapist with over 20 years experience in supporting women and gender-diverse individuals through life's tender transitions.
• Fertility, pregnancy, birth preparation and debriefing • Matrescence and complexities of motherhood • Parenting, relationship dynamics and personal growth • Menopause as a portal to transformation • Identity, orientation, life purpose and career shifts • Chronic pain and long-term health challenges • Grief, loss and emotional distress
I am an ACA Level 3 registered dedicated women’s health counsellor, trauma-informed mental health clinician, childbirth educator, and somatic psychotherapist with over 20 years experience in supporting women and gender-diverse individuals through life's tender transitions.
• Fertility, pregnancy, birth preparation and debriefing • Matrescence and complexities of motherhood • Parenting, relationship dynamics and personal growth • Menopause as a portal to transformation • Identity, orientation, life purpose and career shifts • Chronic pain and long-term health challenges • Grief, loss and emotional distress
(03) 4422 4945 View (03) 4422 4945
EMDR and Complex Trauma, Insight n Beyond
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L4
Serves Area
How would you like your therapy journey to be? Hi I am Sally. I’m a seasoned trauma therapist working with individuals, couples, and families across diverse life experiences. My international work with varied communities has shaped a culturally sensitive, compassionate approach. You will find a professional and supportive space where you can safely explore challenges and create meaningful, lasting change. I work with complex traumas, childhood adverse experience, sexual assault and sexual issues, one off events of rupture or multiple traumas. Been in therapy for long periods of time and nothing seems to fully work?
How would you like your therapy journey to be? Hi I am Sally. I’m a seasoned trauma therapist working with individuals, couples, and families across diverse life experiences. My international work with varied communities has shaped a culturally sensitive, compassionate approach. You will find a professional and supportive space where you can safely explore challenges and create meaningful, lasting change. I work with complex traumas, childhood adverse experience, sexual assault and sexual issues, one off events of rupture or multiple traumas. Been in therapy for long periods of time and nothing seems to fully work?
(08) 9509 6340 View (08) 9509 6340
James Skinner - YouBeYou Therapy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
9 Endorsed
Online Only
If you are facing relationship struggles like infidelity, lack of emotional connection, or communication issues email me now. I can support you to understand your behaviour, break unhealthy patterns, and create a better relationship for you and your partner.
If you are facing relationship struggles like infidelity, lack of emotional connection, or communication issues email me now. I can support you to understand your behaviour, break unhealthy patterns, and create a better relationship for you and your partner.
(02) 8403 2074 View (02) 8403 2074
Anne Robertson
Social Worker, MA, AASW
1 Endorsed
Coburg, VIC 3058
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and Family Therapist . I have been working as a therapist for the last 18 years, however have been in the field for the last 30 years, I have extensive experience working with adults, young people and children and have spent extensive time working in settings including Community Health and Non Government Organisations. I have supported clients with issues including trauma, childabuse, family violence, injustice, as well as parents supporting children with anxiety/depression or regulating their emotional world. I support clients develop a therapeutic plan that targets their hopes.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and Family Therapist . I have been working as a therapist for the last 18 years, however have been in the field for the last 30 years, I have extensive experience working with adults, young people and children and have spent extensive time working in settings including Community Health and Non Government Organisations. I have supported clients with issues including trauma, childabuse, family violence, injustice, as well as parents supporting children with anxiety/depression or regulating their emotional world. I support clients develop a therapeutic plan that targets their hopes.
(03) 8338 1770 View (03) 8338 1770
Somatic Therapists
How does somatic therapy work?
Somatic therapy is a form of treatment that focuses on how the body and mind are interconnected. In this approach, physical symptoms are addressed because they may in fact signal emotional distress. Somatic therapists combine mindfulness, talk therapy, breathwork, yoga, dance, and physical manipulations of the body to help patients become more attuned to what their body is telling them.

Is EMDR a somatic therapy?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a form of somatic therapy, as it incorporates mental and physical principles. EMDR involves remembering a traumatic experience while allowing one’s eyes to track a side-to-side visual stimulus from a therapist. This lateral eye movement is believed to diminish the painful power of the memory so that it can be discussed with a therapist.

Is somatic therapy evidence-based?
Somatic therapy has been researched and studied, and some forms of somatic therapy are found to be effective in treating a wide range of conditions. Because somatic therapy encompasses many techniques, some, such as EMDR and meditation, have been studied more than others.

What is somatic trauma therapy?
Somatic trauma therapy is based on the idea that when people experience trauma, they can become stuck in the “freeze” part of a “fight, flight, or freeze” response. In this state, trauma can manifest itself both mentally and physically—through tension in the muscles, anxiety, and stress. Popular forms of somatic trauma therapy include EMDR, sensorimotor therapy, and somatic experiencing.