Sexual Abuse Psychologists and Therapists in Wantirna South, VIC

Photo of Nancy Mounir, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Nancy Mounir
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My client may be living with the effects of sexual abuse or complex trauma and feels overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsafe in their own body or relationships.
I offer trauma-informed, evidence-based therapy for sexual abuse, complex trauma, and PTSD. I help clients build safety, regulate emotions, and understand trauma responses without shame. My work supports both mind and body, guiding clients toward healing, self-compassion, and lasting change at their own pace. I offer therapy in both English and Arabic.
My client may be living with the effects of sexual abuse or complex trauma and feels overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsafe in their own body or relationships.
I offer trauma-informed, evidence-based therapy for sexual abuse, complex trauma, and PTSD. I help clients build safety, regulate emotions, and understand trauma responses without shame. My work supports both mind and body, guiding clients toward healing, self-compassion, and lasting change at their own pace. I offer therapy in both English and Arabic.
(03) 7500 5314 View (03) 7500 5314
Photo of Jo White - Melbourne Sandplay & Expressive Therapies , Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
Melbourne Sandplay & Expressive Therapies
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
Serves Area
Melbourne Sandplay and Expressive Therapies provides a safe space for you to explore your inner psyche and find peace and healing through deep therapeutic engagement. Sandplay is the ideal mode to heal from trauma and find your own inner resources. Guided drawing also helps you engage your body “knowing” to guide you towards healing. I would be honoured to share your healing journey with you.
Melbourne Sandplay and Expressive Therapies provides a safe space for you to explore your inner psyche and find peace and healing through deep therapeutic engagement. Sandplay is the ideal mode to heal from trauma and find your own inner resources. Guided drawing also helps you engage your body “knowing” to guide you towards healing. I would be honoured to share your healing journey with you.
(03) 9864 1852 View (03) 9864 1852
Photo of Uyen (Winnie) Ai Pham, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Uyen (Winnie) Ai Pham
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Winnie sees clients with a broad range of presenting issues including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, family violence, sexual assaults, pain management, grief, trauma, PTSD, and is experienced working with refugees. She is able to provide counselling services in English as well as Vietnamese and works with children, youth, and adults. She has more than 14 years experience and practice, and began her psychology career as a counsellor with the Victorian Aboriginal Health Services. Winnie has knowledge and skills working with a wide range of age groups including, children, youth, adults, and the elderly.
Winnie sees clients with a broad range of presenting issues including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, family violence, sexual assaults, pain management, grief, trauma, PTSD, and is experienced working with refugees. She is able to provide counselling services in English as well as Vietnamese and works with children, youth, and adults. She has more than 14 years experience and practice, and began her psychology career as a counsellor with the Victorian Aboriginal Health Services. Winnie has knowledge and skills working with a wide range of age groups including, children, youth, adults, and the elderly.
(03) 9560 8880 View (03) 9560 8880
Photo of Magdalen Ser, Social Worker, MSc, AMHSW
Magdalen Ser
Social Worker, MSc, AMHSW
Serves Area
Have you spent years trying to understand yourself, yet still find yourself caught in the same emotional patterns or relationship difficulties? Perhaps you've gained valuable insight through previous therapy, yet something still feels stuck. When insight alone hasn't been been enough, it is often because the effects of trauma are reflected not only in how we think, but also in the protective ways our mind and nervous system have learned to respond.
Have you spent years trying to understand yourself, yet still find yourself caught in the same emotional patterns or relationship difficulties? Perhaps you've gained valuable insight through previous therapy, yet something still feels stuck. When insight alone hasn't been been enough, it is often because the effects of trauma are reflected not only in how we think, but also in the protective ways our mind and nervous system have learned to respond.
(03) 9994 1795 View (03) 9994 1795
Photo of Judy Tomlinson, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Judy Tomlinson
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I am a Clinical Psychologist with 20 years of experience in the field. My practice is dedicated to helping adults navigate their mental health journeys. My areas of expertise encompass a range of concerns, including anxiety, trauma, depression, pain and chronic health conditions, grief, self-esteem, workplace issues, and relationship issues. I believe in the power of tailored interventions, and I work closely with clients to design treatment plans that align with their unique needs.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with 20 years of experience in the field. My practice is dedicated to helping adults navigate their mental health journeys. My areas of expertise encompass a range of concerns, including anxiety, trauma, depression, pain and chronic health conditions, grief, self-esteem, workplace issues, and relationship issues. I believe in the power of tailored interventions, and I work closely with clients to design treatment plans that align with their unique needs.
(03) 8203 5133 View (03) 8203 5133
Photo of Heidi Chia, Social Worker, AMHSW
Heidi Chia
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
Hello, I'm Heidi. I am a compassionate and collaborative therapist who enjoys working with adolescents and adults. I strive to create a warm, safe and accepting space where people feel supported to make sense of their experiences, reconnect with their inner strengths, and move toward meaningful and lasting change.
Hello, I'm Heidi. I am a compassionate and collaborative therapist who enjoys working with adolescents and adults. I strive to create a warm, safe and accepting space where people feel supported to make sense of their experiences, reconnect with their inner strengths, and move toward meaningful and lasting change.
(03) 8771 5393 View (03) 8771 5393
Photo of Geordy Sebastian, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Geordy Sebastian
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Clinical Psychologist currently working in both private practice and Victorian public mental health. I provide individual sessions with people who experience psychological distress to bring about positive change in how they feel and function, in a highly individualized and professional way. My areas of interests include anxieties and phobias, panic disorder, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), self-esteem, adjustment to life changes, anger management, stress and trauma. My therapeutic approach is anchoring on Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) incorporates other evidence-based approaches such as ACT, DBT and Mindfulness.
Clinical Psychologist currently working in both private practice and Victorian public mental health. I provide individual sessions with people who experience psychological distress to bring about positive change in how they feel and function, in a highly individualized and professional way. My areas of interests include anxieties and phobias, panic disorder, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), self-esteem, adjustment to life changes, anger management, stress and trauma. My therapeutic approach is anchoring on Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) incorporates other evidence-based approaches such as ACT, DBT and Mindfulness.
(03) 7500 5802 View (03) 7500 5802
Photo of Dan Solomon, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Dan Solomon
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Hi, I'm Dan. I am currently on leave and am not accepting new clients (from Nov 2025 to Feb 2026). I apologise for the inconvenience. I am the principal psychologist and director at In Balance Psychology Clinic. I am very passionate about the profession. My top priority is as a therapist is for each and every client to experience an environment of warmth and respect throughout their therapeutic journey. I work with individuals, tailoring treatment to specific needs. Seeking help is a very important one, therefore you will be met where you are, listened to, and provided with targeted strategies for making real change.
Hi, I'm Dan. I am currently on leave and am not accepting new clients (from Nov 2025 to Feb 2026). I apologise for the inconvenience. I am the principal psychologist and director at In Balance Psychology Clinic. I am very passionate about the profession. My top priority is as a therapist is for each and every client to experience an environment of warmth and respect throughout their therapeutic journey. I work with individuals, tailoring treatment to specific needs. Seeking help is a very important one, therefore you will be met where you are, listened to, and provided with targeted strategies for making real change.

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lucy McCarthy, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Lucy McCarthy
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Bentleigh East, VIC 3165
My particular areas of expertise are in the treatment of Complex Trauma, Childhood Sexual Abuse and Problem Gambling.
I engage with my clients in a respectful and professional manner, underpinned by warmth and openness. I endeavour to bring an authenticity that allows you to feel comfortable and confident enough to explore your concerns, then co create a plan utilising treatments such as Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Cognitive Therapy or Attachment Based Interventions.
My particular areas of expertise are in the treatment of Complex Trauma, Childhood Sexual Abuse and Problem Gambling.
I engage with my clients in a respectful and professional manner, underpinned by warmth and openness. I endeavour to bring an authenticity that allows you to feel comfortable and confident enough to explore your concerns, then co create a plan utilising treatments such as Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Cognitive Therapy or Attachment Based Interventions.
(03) 7500 5855 View (03) 7500 5855
Photo of Barbara Drossos, Social Worker, AMHSW
Barbara Drossos
Social Worker, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Coburg, VIC 3058
I support people who have experienced sexual assault and violence, as well as those who struggle with their mental health, childhood trauma, attachment, relationships, parenting, heartbreak and shame.
Life can be hard to navigate, especially when we face transitions, stressors and/or crises. Counselling can make a difference. I provide non-judgmental, warm and thoughtful support to work towards change through increasing self-awareness, developing interpersonal and self-care skills, as well as processing trauma that may still be impacting your life.
I support people who have experienced sexual assault and violence, as well as those who struggle with their mental health, childhood trauma, attachment, relationships, parenting, heartbreak and shame.
Life can be hard to navigate, especially when we face transitions, stressors and/or crises. Counselling can make a difference. I provide non-judgmental, warm and thoughtful support to work towards change through increasing self-awareness, developing interpersonal and self-care skills, as well as processing trauma that may still be impacting your life.
(03) 9344 1556 View (03) 9344 1556
Damien Gafforini
Social Worker, AMHSW
Doreen, VIC 3754
I have 20 years of experience, in particular supporting those whom have experienced some form of traumatic event (especially sexual abuse).
I have 20 years of counselling experience. With degree’s in Psychology, Social Work and Child Psychotherapy. I provide specialised supports for clients who have complex trauma through the use of such tools as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), Neurofeedback, QEEG and trauma therapy. I also provide Couples Counselling.
I have 20 years of experience, in particular supporting those whom have experienced some form of traumatic event (especially sexual abuse).
I have 20 years of counselling experience. With degree’s in Psychology, Social Work and Child Psychotherapy. I provide specialised supports for clients who have complex trauma through the use of such tools as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), Neurofeedback, QEEG and trauma therapy. I also provide Couples Counselling.
(03) 9068 6002 View (03) 9068 6002
Photo of Peta de Burgh, Social Worker, AMHSW
Peta de Burgh
Social Worker, AMHSW
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
I have experience working with adults who have suffered from childhood sexual abuse, physical abuse and neglect, as well as those who have been affected by a recent traumatic event.
I use a range of specialist interventions when working with Trauma, such as Somatic Therapy, TF-CBT ,EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing) psycho-education, and stabilisation techniques. I am particularly interested in polyvagal theory, brain plasticity, body psychotherapy, and incorporate this into my work with you.
I have experience working with adults who have suffered from childhood sexual abuse, physical abuse and neglect, as well as those who have been affected by a recent traumatic event.
I use a range of specialist interventions when working with Trauma, such as Somatic Therapy, TF-CBT ,EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing) psycho-education, and stabilisation techniques. I am particularly interested in polyvagal theory, brain plasticity, body psychotherapy, and incorporate this into my work with you.
(03) 7003 2905 View (03) 7003 2905
Photo of San Leenstra, Counsellor, MA, AThR
San Leenstra
Counsellor, MA, AThR
Serves Area
I have over 20 years experience working with individuals, adults, teens, children and families and have qualifications in Art Therapy, Family Therapy and have many years experience working in sexual assault recovery and trauma-informed practice.
I am passionate about working collaboratively and believe in balancing honesty with warmth and care, being straight forward as well as gentle, kind and non-judgemental. I work client-centred, with unconditional positive regard and allow each perspective to be heard, valued and taken seriously. I support each individual to explore their own unique way of being in this world, with all its challenges and rewards. I invite you to embrace a journey of self-discovery and growth in a safe, supportive environment where your voice matters.
I have over 20 years experience working with individuals, adults, teens, children and families and have qualifications in Art Therapy, Family Therapy and have many years experience working in sexual assault recovery and trauma-informed practice.
I am passionate about working collaboratively and believe in balancing honesty with warmth and care, being straight forward as well as gentle, kind and non-judgemental. I work client-centred, with unconditional positive regard and allow each perspective to be heard, valued and taken seriously. I support each individual to explore their own unique way of being in this world, with all its challenges and rewards. I invite you to embrace a journey of self-discovery and growth in a safe, supportive environment where your voice matters.
(03) 4422 2660 View (03) 4422 2660
Photo of Hannah Bruce, Counsellor, PACFA
Hannah Bruce
Counsellor, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Hannah is a specialist trauma counsellor with deep experience supporting adult survivors of childhood trauma, complex PTSD, addiction, and victims of crime — including those engaging with the National Redress Scheme. With an extensive background in counselling, she brings warmth, clarity, and grounded empathy to her work. Hannah has worked across community mental health, addiction recovery, and trauma support services. Her practice is informed by EFT, somatic counselling, motivational interviewing, and the Blue Knot Foundation’s Clinical Practice Guidelines for Complex Trauma.
Hannah is a specialist trauma counsellor with deep experience supporting adult survivors of childhood trauma, complex PTSD, addiction, and victims of crime — including those engaging with the National Redress Scheme. With an extensive background in counselling, she brings warmth, clarity, and grounded empathy to her work. Hannah has worked across community mental health, addiction recovery, and trauma support services. Her practice is informed by EFT, somatic counselling, motivational interviewing, and the Blue Knot Foundation’s Clinical Practice Guidelines for Complex Trauma.
(03) 8203 5751 View (03) 8203 5751
Photo of Dr Melissa Vella, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Melissa Vella
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Officer, VIC 3809
Hi there, let me guess... You are here because you used to be able to cope. You have faced a lot of things in your life, and have always managed. But you are now struggling, and you are surprised and feeling shame that you can’t tough this one out. You have compassion for others who aren’t coping and are always the strong one, the listening ear. But somehow, you see yourself as different, you are not supposed to fall apart. And certainly not now.
Hi there, let me guess... You are here because you used to be able to cope. You have faced a lot of things in your life, and have always managed. But you are now struggling, and you are surprised and feeling shame that you can’t tough this one out. You have compassion for others who aren’t coping and are always the strong one, the listening ear. But somehow, you see yourself as different, you are not supposed to fall apart. And certainly not now.
View
Photo of Kat O'Mara, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Kat O'Mara
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
McKinnon, VIC 3204
I also work with women who have experienced sexual abuse, assault, and rape.
You’ve always been the one who holds it all together: for your children, your partner, your family. Now you’re quietly falling apart. Perhaps you’re coping with the pain of estrangement, the aftermath of a controlling or emotionally abusive relationship, or the exhaustion of trying to keep everyone else afloat while ignoring your own needs. On the outside, you seem capable; inside, you feel anxious, alone, or disconnected. The old strategies like perfectionism, people-pleasing and staying silent aren’t working anymore.
I also work with women who have experienced sexual abuse, assault, and rape.
You’ve always been the one who holds it all together: for your children, your partner, your family. Now you’re quietly falling apart. Perhaps you’re coping with the pain of estrangement, the aftermath of a controlling or emotionally abusive relationship, or the exhaustion of trying to keep everyone else afloat while ignoring your own needs. On the outside, you seem capable; inside, you feel anxious, alone, or disconnected. The old strategies like perfectionism, people-pleasing and staying silent aren’t working anymore.
(03) 7500 5605 View (03) 7500 5605
Photo of Meg Wettenhall, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Meg Wettenhall
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Online Only
She is experienced in supporting individuals who have experienced developmental and complex trauma, family violence, and sexual assault.
Meg bring's warmth, curiosity, authenticity, and compassion to sessions. She aims to help you create genuine change by deepen your relationship with yourself, others, and the world around you; focusing on building self-awareness, communication and emotion regulation skills, and new ways of relating that allow you to live with greater ease and authenticity.
She is experienced in supporting individuals who have experienced developmental and complex trauma, family violence, and sexual assault.
Meg bring's warmth, curiosity, authenticity, and compassion to sessions. She aims to help you create genuine change by deepen your relationship with yourself, others, and the world around you; focusing on building self-awareness, communication and emotion regulation skills, and new ways of relating that allow you to live with greater ease and authenticity.
(03) 4238 0899 View (03) 4238 0899
Photo of Geetha Chetty, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Geetha Chetty
Counsellor, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Williams Landing, VIC 3027
I've worked in correctional services, and various community sectors namely, disadvantaged and marginalised youth, AOD, homelessness, unemployment, sexual assault and family violence.
I believe that we are all unique and experience the world differently in our own special way. Therefore, I do not use a one size fits all counselling approach but adopt different strategies and techniques to provide the most effective treatment for my clients. I use a culturally sensitive, strengths-based, and trauma-informed approach to guide my practice.
I've worked in correctional services, and various community sectors namely, disadvantaged and marginalised youth, AOD, homelessness, unemployment, sexual assault and family violence.
I believe that we are all unique and experience the world differently in our own special way. Therefore, I do not use a one size fits all counselling approach but adopt different strategies and techniques to provide the most effective treatment for my clients. I use a culturally sensitive, strengths-based, and trauma-informed approach to guide my practice.
(03) 7302 2085 View (03) 7302 2085
Photo of Sarah Jones, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Sarah Jones
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Preston, VIC 3072
Sarah Jones is an effective therapist with 25 years’ experience counselling adults, couples, and older adolescents (15 years and older). She is a Clinical Member of the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia, and a senior clinician who has contributed to the field through providing professional development and supervision of other counsellors. Sarah works with individuals and couples addressing their mental health, communication and fulfilment in life.
Sarah Jones is an effective therapist with 25 years’ experience counselling adults, couples, and older adolescents (15 years and older). She is a Clinical Member of the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia, and a senior clinician who has contributed to the field through providing professional development and supervision of other counsellors. Sarah works with individuals and couples addressing their mental health, communication and fulfilment in life.
(03) 8338 1006 View (03) 8338 1006
Photo of Tammy Stander, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Tammy Stander
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Online Only
I am a trauma-informed and neurodiverse affirming RI-EMDR therapist and clinical supervisor. I seek to create a deepening awareness of self and enhance connection with others. I work primarily in the areas of complex trauma and dissociation supporting individuals and their loved ones. Exploration of the human condition has always intrigued me. I am curious as to the driving force behind why we do what we do and what determines our path in life. In understanding our life’s journey and what shapes it, we can begin to move towards a more content existence - with a balanced relationship with the world and the connections it brings.
I am a trauma-informed and neurodiverse affirming RI-EMDR therapist and clinical supervisor. I seek to create a deepening awareness of self and enhance connection with others. I work primarily in the areas of complex trauma and dissociation supporting individuals and their loved ones. Exploration of the human condition has always intrigued me. I am curious as to the driving force behind why we do what we do and what determines our path in life. In understanding our life’s journey and what shapes it, we can begin to move towards a more content existence - with a balanced relationship with the world and the connections it brings.
(02) 9159 6712 View (02) 9159 6712
Sexual Abuse Therapists
How do therapists treat sexual abuse?
A good therapist will be nonjudgmental and possibly demonstrate active listening, repeating back what the client says to show that they have understood. These skills allow people to feel comfortable discussing their traumatic experiences openly. Some important treatment goals are to restore a sense of safety and to rebuild confidence. In addition to working one-on-one with the patient, a therapist might bring in supportive family members to assist the client.

Do you have to talk extensively about sexual abuse in therapy?
Survivors frequently find it difficult to describe what happened to them out loud. They can even still be in a state of denial if the sexual abuse occurred recently. It is important for survivors to acknowledge that what happened isn’t their fault and to challenge and reappraise any unhealthy feelings or thoughts as they arise. Art therapy and play therapy are useful non-verbal means of communication for some survivors.

How long does treatment for sexual abuse take?
Recovery from sexual abuse can be a long and difficult process. Some survivors are able to move on naturally on their own, given time, while others require the guidance of a trained therapist. Therapy needs vary and can range from a few sessions to months or even years. Healing from sexual abuse takes time, and everyone’s journey will look a little different.

Can trauma symptoms caused by sexual abuse come back after treatment?
As occurs in many cases of trauma, survivors of sexual abuse may experience PTSD-like symptoms long after the abuse has ceased or after an initial round of treatment has occurred. In such a case, there is evidence that prolonged exposure therapy is a useful treatment for survivors, and may be more efficacious than supportive counseling alone. While triggers may continue to cause distress, the idea is that, with time and repeated exposure, their power will fade, allowing survivors to move on with their lives.