Psychodynamic Psychologists and Therapists in West Melbourne, VIC

Photo of Carl Castle, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Carl Castle
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
West Melbourne, VIC 3003
Carl is an experienced clinical psychologist also trained in the area of human bioscience. Carl uses a holistic approach to comprehensively understand and address the many factors which can undermine mental health, and has particular interest in the mind-body connection and treatment of related disorders. Carl’s experience is broad and informed by work across the lifespan, including specialized work in the area of war and refugee trauma.
Carl is an experienced clinical psychologist also trained in the area of human bioscience. Carl uses a holistic approach to comprehensively understand and address the many factors which can undermine mental health, and has particular interest in the mind-body connection and treatment of related disorders. Carl’s experience is broad and informed by work across the lifespan, including specialized work in the area of war and refugee trauma.
(03) 7003 2968 View (03) 7003 2968
Photo of Ashley Tamrous Karstunen, Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
Ashley Tamrous Karstunen
Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
If you're carrying the weight of trauma, facing anxiety or grief, seeking LGBTQ+ affirming support, or exploring purpose and belonging, you're not alone. I offer a safe, non-judgemental space for healing and clarity. Since 2017, I've helped clients transform and heal from PTSD, depression, grief, and feeling lost or unfulfilled using depth therapy, strength-centred counselling, nervous system regulation, trauma-informed EFT/Tapping, and somatic therapy. My approach creates change from the inside out.
If you're carrying the weight of trauma, facing anxiety or grief, seeking LGBTQ+ affirming support, or exploring purpose and belonging, you're not alone. I offer a safe, non-judgemental space for healing and clarity. Since 2017, I've helped clients transform and heal from PTSD, depression, grief, and feeling lost or unfulfilled using depth therapy, strength-centred counselling, nervous system regulation, trauma-informed EFT/Tapping, and somatic therapy. My approach creates change from the inside out.
0413 762 223 View 0413 762 223
Photo of Dr Tanja Takala, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Tanja Takala
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
West Melbourne, VIC 3003
I specialise in trauma-focused therapy and integrate a range of modalities to meet my clients’ needs, including EMDR, IFS, parts-work, psychodynamic therapy, ACT and CBT.
I am a Clinical Psychologist and EMDR therapist working in Williamstown and the CBD (Flagstaff Gardens). I am passionate about working with individuals who are experiencing the effects of traumatic or stressful life events (current or historical) and hope to better understand their inner world, develop tools for regulating their emotions, and feel more confident in navigating life's challenges. I am committed to providing gender and neurodivergent affirming care and creating a safe space for those who wish to explore their identities, cultivate self-compassion and feel empowered to live life as their most authentic selves.
I specialise in trauma-focused therapy and integrate a range of modalities to meet my clients’ needs, including EMDR, IFS, parts-work, psychodynamic therapy, ACT and CBT.
I am a Clinical Psychologist and EMDR therapist working in Williamstown and the CBD (Flagstaff Gardens). I am passionate about working with individuals who are experiencing the effects of traumatic or stressful life events (current or historical) and hope to better understand their inner world, develop tools for regulating their emotions, and feel more confident in navigating life's challenges. I am committed to providing gender and neurodivergent affirming care and creating a safe space for those who wish to explore their identities, cultivate self-compassion and feel empowered to live life as their most authentic selves.
(03) 7003 2457 View (03) 7003 2457
Photo of Jessica Willcocks, Counsellor, PACFA
Jessica Willcocks
Counsellor, PACFA
1 Endorsed
West Melbourne, VIC 3003
At the heart of everything I do I am person centred and I often bring interventions in from different theories such as DBT skills, ACT, CBT, psychodynamic, mindfulness or positive psychology.
Hi! I’m Jess Willcocks and I’m here to be able to assist you to live your best life. I say that partially joking, but I am here to work with individuals who want to have a deeper understanding of themselves and their behaviours. I want to help you to enrich your life and have the life you have always wanted. Together we will foster your self-awareness, explore your goals and dreams and unlock your full potential to create lasting and meaningful change.
At the heart of everything I do I am person centred and I often bring interventions in from different theories such as DBT skills, ACT, CBT, psychodynamic, mindfulness or positive psychology.
Hi! I’m Jess Willcocks and I’m here to be able to assist you to live your best life. I say that partially joking, but I am here to work with individuals who want to have a deeper understanding of themselves and their behaviours. I want to help you to enrich your life and have the life you have always wanted. Together we will foster your self-awareness, explore your goals and dreams and unlock your full potential to create lasting and meaningful change.
0478 407 339 View 0478 407 339
Photo of Joshua Comyn, Psychotherapist, PhD, ACA-L3
Joshua Comyn
Psychotherapist, PhD, ACA-L3
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Something isn’t quite right. It may be that you can’t stop yourself from worrying. Or you are compulsively avoiding things (places, people, certain situations). Perhaps you find yourself flying into a sudden, uncontrollable, panic. It may be that you are feeling down: you can’t shake the sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness in your life. You may be feeling worthless and guilty too. It could be your relationships that aren’t working (partner, friends, family, boss, or colleagues). Perhaps past experiences are haunting you so that you lose your connection to the present and the people in it. Perhaps it's all of the above.
Something isn’t quite right. It may be that you can’t stop yourself from worrying. Or you are compulsively avoiding things (places, people, certain situations). Perhaps you find yourself flying into a sudden, uncontrollable, panic. It may be that you are feeling down: you can’t shake the sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness in your life. You may be feeling worthless and guilty too. It could be your relationships that aren’t working (partner, friends, family, boss, or colleagues). Perhaps past experiences are haunting you so that you lose your connection to the present and the people in it. Perhaps it's all of the above.
(03) 7003 2150 View (03) 7003 2150
Photo of Carmen Beaumont - Vida Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Vida Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Many people come to therapy feeling overwhelmed or unsure of how to move forward, whether it’s in their relationships, work, or within themselves. You may be struggling with anxiety, low mood, self-doubt, or a life transition that feels especially heavy right now. Whatever you're facing, you don’t have to go through it alone. In therapy, we’ll work together to build on your strengths and develop practical, meaningful strategies to help you feel more grounded, confident, and connected.
Many people come to therapy feeling overwhelmed or unsure of how to move forward, whether it’s in their relationships, work, or within themselves. You may be struggling with anxiety, low mood, self-doubt, or a life transition that feels especially heavy right now. Whatever you're facing, you don’t have to go through it alone. In therapy, we’ll work together to build on your strengths and develop practical, meaningful strategies to help you feel more grounded, confident, and connected.
(03) 9328 3636 View (03) 9328 3636
Photo of Shiva Chouhan, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Shiva Chouhan
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
In a warm and collaborative space, our work will blend EMDR, ACT, CBT and psychodynamic practices - customized to your pace and goals.
You’ll find a therapeutic space that’s warm, collaborative, and centred around your unique needs. My approach draws from a range of evidence-based therapies—including EMDR, CBT, ACT, and psychodynamic methods— to support both immediate relief and deeper healing.
In a warm and collaborative space, our work will blend EMDR, ACT, CBT and psychodynamic practices - customized to your pace and goals.
You’ll find a therapeutic space that’s warm, collaborative, and centred around your unique needs. My approach draws from a range of evidence-based therapies—including EMDR, CBT, ACT, and psychodynamic methods— to support both immediate relief and deeper healing.
(03) 7003 2544 View (03) 7003 2544
Photo of Chris Madden, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Chris Madden
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Serves Area
I'm a qualified counsellor with a background in visual art. In sculpture, my process is one of layering and uncovering—of allowing for something unexpected to emerge through close attention and curiosity. In a similar way, therapy can bring patterns, memories, and underlying meanings into focus. As a therapist, I offer a space where people can discuss their thoughts, feelings, and personal history in an environment that is open, confidential, and free from judgement. My role is not to provide advice or ready-made solutions, but to support the process of exploration and encourage curiosity along the way.
I'm a qualified counsellor with a background in visual art. In sculpture, my process is one of layering and uncovering—of allowing for something unexpected to emerge through close attention and curiosity. In a similar way, therapy can bring patterns, memories, and underlying meanings into focus. As a therapist, I offer a space where people can discuss their thoughts, feelings, and personal history in an environment that is open, confidential, and free from judgement. My role is not to provide advice or ready-made solutions, but to support the process of exploration and encourage curiosity along the way.
(08) 6725 3425 View (08) 6725 3425
Photo of Hugo Mario Gonzales, Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Hugo Mario Gonzales
Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Serves Area
In our sessions, I use psychodynamic therapy to help you uncover underlying emotional patterns, and for those experiencing trauma or personality disorders, I incorporate trauma-focused therapy to address the deep emotional wounds and promote healing.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, emotionally stuck, or locked in the same painful patterns—whether in your relationships, your sense of self, or your ability to feel safe in the world. Maybe you've tried to push through it, but the anxiety, shame, or emotional exhaustion keeps coming back. You may not have words for what’s wrong, but you know something needs to change. Whether you're navigating the aftermath of trauma, struggling in your relationship, or feeling trapped by intense emotions or inner criticism, therapy can offer a space to breathe, make sense of what’s happening, and begin to heal.
In our sessions, I use psychodynamic therapy to help you uncover underlying emotional patterns, and for those experiencing trauma or personality disorders, I incorporate trauma-focused therapy to address the deep emotional wounds and promote healing.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, emotionally stuck, or locked in the same painful patterns—whether in your relationships, your sense of self, or your ability to feel safe in the world. Maybe you've tried to push through it, but the anxiety, shame, or emotional exhaustion keeps coming back. You may not have words for what’s wrong, but you know something needs to change. Whether you're navigating the aftermath of trauma, struggling in your relationship, or feeling trapped by intense emotions or inner criticism, therapy can offer a space to breathe, make sense of what’s happening, and begin to heal.
(08) 6490 9346 View (08) 6490 9346
Photo of Kayleigh Young, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Kayleigh Young
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Clinical Psychologist and Board-Approved Supervisor working with adults experiencing anxiety, stress, trauma, burnout and workplace challenges. I often work with thoughtful, capable individuals who are used to coping well but find themselves feeling overwhelmed, stuck or burnt out. This may relate to demanding roles, relationship difficulties or significant life transitions. Many are used to being the one others rely on and are now looking for space to step back, make sense of what is happening, and move forward with greater clarity, confidence and practical strategies.
I am a Clinical Psychologist and Board-Approved Supervisor working with adults experiencing anxiety, stress, trauma, burnout and workplace challenges. I often work with thoughtful, capable individuals who are used to coping well but find themselves feeling overwhelmed, stuck or burnt out. This may relate to demanding roles, relationship difficulties or significant life transitions. Many are used to being the one others rely on and are now looking for space to step back, make sense of what is happening, and move forward with greater clarity, confidence and practical strategies.
(03) 9068 5543 View (03) 9068 5543
Photo of Dr Trudy Clutterbok, Social Worker, PhD, AMHSW
Dr Trudy Clutterbok
Social Worker, PhD, AMHSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
The people who work with me are often independent thinkers, they're bright and creative. They might also feel isolated, stuck, that there's something missing, or that they haven't yet been heard in a way that allows them to feel a bit freer to really enjoy their lives. Many would say that they feel like outsiders. The people I work with have often had seriously difficult histories. Sometimes they support someone else who suffers. I value working with others of all ages from my LGBTQ+ and GBKS (diversity in gender, body, kinship & sexuality) communities.
The people who work with me are often independent thinkers, they're bright and creative. They might also feel isolated, stuck, that there's something missing, or that they haven't yet been heard in a way that allows them to feel a bit freer to really enjoy their lives. Many would say that they feel like outsiders. The people I work with have often had seriously difficult histories. Sometimes they support someone else who suffers. I value working with others of all ages from my LGBTQ+ and GBKS (diversity in gender, body, kinship & sexuality) communities.
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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ally Moloney, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Ally Moloney
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
South Yarra, VIC 3141
Ally is a warm, attuned clinical psychologist and board-approved supervisor with over a decade of experience supporting people who have experienced trauma, difficult relationships, or early emotional wounds that continue to shape how they see themselves and connect with others. Many feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected, and are seeking to better understand their emotions, heal from the past, and build stronger connections with themselves and those around them.
Ally is a warm, attuned clinical psychologist and board-approved supervisor with over a decade of experience supporting people who have experienced trauma, difficult relationships, or early emotional wounds that continue to shape how they see themselves and connect with others. Many feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected, and are seeking to better understand their emotions, heal from the past, and build stronger connections with themselves and those around them.
(03) 9827 2673 View (03) 9827 2673
Photo of Sandra Pucci, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Sandra Pucci
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Camberwell, VIC 3124
She favours a psychodynamic framework, to get to the origins of possible dysfunctional patterns with the aim of improving self-understanding and growth.
Sandra is an experienced bilingual clinical psychologist who sees different people from all walks of life, as circumstances bring many of us to therapy at different points or phases in life and for a variety of reasons. Sandra’s therapy setting provides a caring, not judgemental, supportive space where people can feel safe to express themselves and their inner feelings and where the person can have the experience to feel held in an accepting, respectful and empathetic way. This catharsis provides the individual with a freedom to unburden, relax and try to find a new stable foundation for a more fulfilling future and experiences.
She favours a psychodynamic framework, to get to the origins of possible dysfunctional patterns with the aim of improving self-understanding and growth.
Sandra is an experienced bilingual clinical psychologist who sees different people from all walks of life, as circumstances bring many of us to therapy at different points or phases in life and for a variety of reasons. Sandra’s therapy setting provides a caring, not judgemental, supportive space where people can feel safe to express themselves and their inner feelings and where the person can have the experience to feel held in an accepting, respectful and empathetic way. This catharsis provides the individual with a freedom to unburden, relax and try to find a new stable foundation for a more fulfilling future and experiences.
(03) 8797 5353 View (03) 8797 5353
Photo of Luke Lawrence, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Luke Lawrence
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Hello! My goal is to provide you with a supportive, non-judgmental and welcoming space in which we can work together. I am particularly interested in working with late teens and adults, providing support for PTSD and trauma, anxiety and depression, alcohol- and other drug-related problems / addictions, relationship issues, and men’s and women's health concerns. I’m passionate about helping others explore why their emotional and psychological wellbeing is challenged in a way that is specific to their needs, and culturally appropriate.
Hello! My goal is to provide you with a supportive, non-judgmental and welcoming space in which we can work together. I am particularly interested in working with late teens and adults, providing support for PTSD and trauma, anxiety and depression, alcohol- and other drug-related problems / addictions, relationship issues, and men’s and women's health concerns. I’m passionate about helping others explore why their emotional and psychological wellbeing is challenged in a way that is specific to their needs, and culturally appropriate.
(03) 4240 5968 View (03) 4240 5968
Photo of Wendy Oh, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Wendy Oh
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Ringwood East, VIC 3135
She blends evidence-based techniques with empathetic understanding utilising strategies such as Mindfulness-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Emotion-focused therapy, Psychodynamic therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Polyvagal theory.
Wendy works with clients ages 12 onwards, individuals, couples and families. With a broad knowledge of presentations, Wendy sees clients experiencing a range of mental health challenges including PTSD, Relationship breakdown, Anxiety, Depression, Loss & Grief, Autism, ADHD, Domestic Violence and Parenting and more.
She blends evidence-based techniques with empathetic understanding utilising strategies such as Mindfulness-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Emotion-focused therapy, Psychodynamic therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Polyvagal theory.
Wendy works with clients ages 12 onwards, individuals, couples and families. With a broad knowledge of presentations, Wendy sees clients experiencing a range of mental health challenges including PTSD, Relationship breakdown, Anxiety, Depression, Loss & Grief, Autism, ADHD, Domestic Violence and Parenting and more.
(03) 8203 5522 View (03) 8203 5522
Photo of Mellisah Mancuveni, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Mellisah Mancuveni
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Hi, my name is Mellisah, a Registered Psychologist with diverse experience, having worked with clients ranging from the ages of 7 years to older adults. I have experience with various presentations including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, family challenges and other individual or social difficulties. My practice is underpinned by evidence based intervention, cultural considerations and a strength focused approach. From the moment you meet me, you’ll realise that I am friendly, approachable and attentive to clients’ needs.
Hi, my name is Mellisah, a Registered Psychologist with diverse experience, having worked with clients ranging from the ages of 7 years to older adults. I have experience with various presentations including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, family challenges and other individual or social difficulties. My practice is underpinned by evidence based intervention, cultural considerations and a strength focused approach. From the moment you meet me, you’ll realise that I am friendly, approachable and attentive to clients’ needs.
(08) 6490 9120 View (08) 6490 9120
Photo of Courtney Pearson, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Courtney Pearson
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
Attention Gentlemen! Are you feeling overwhelmed and alone? Are you struggling to form meaningful connections with others? Are the traditional ‘rules’ of masculinity preventing you from living your best life? Well, look no further! I am a counsellor and psychotherapist at Mindful Elk Therapy who specialises in men’s issues. I provide support to help men navigate confusing emotions, explore interpersonal trauma, break unhealthy relationship patterns, cope with the emotional impact of family separation, workplace stress, embrace their strengths, forgive their mistakes, and discover their unique identity.
Attention Gentlemen! Are you feeling overwhelmed and alone? Are you struggling to form meaningful connections with others? Are the traditional ‘rules’ of masculinity preventing you from living your best life? Well, look no further! I am a counsellor and psychotherapist at Mindful Elk Therapy who specialises in men’s issues. I provide support to help men navigate confusing emotions, explore interpersonal trauma, break unhealthy relationship patterns, cope with the emotional impact of family separation, workplace stress, embrace their strengths, forgive their mistakes, and discover their unique identity.
(03) 4233 2821 View (03) 4233 2821
Photo of Georgia de Keyzer, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Prov
Georgia de Keyzer
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Prov
Brunswick West, VIC 3055
I draw on Cognitive Behavioural and Psychodynamic approaches, tailoring my work to each client’s needs.
I draw from Cognitive Behavioural and Psychodynamic modalities in my therapeutic work, tailoring the techniques to each client. I focus on balancing between supporting clients to make practical changes to everyday life to support their needs, as well as unpacking previous experiences and how they affect the client’s current day-to-day life.
I draw on Cognitive Behavioural and Psychodynamic approaches, tailoring my work to each client’s needs.
I draw from Cognitive Behavioural and Psychodynamic modalities in my therapeutic work, tailoring the techniques to each client. I focus on balancing between supporting clients to make practical changes to everyday life to support their needs, as well as unpacking previous experiences and how they affect the client’s current day-to-day life.
(03) 7003 2683 View (03) 7003 2683
Photo of Elise Zijai - Hart&Seek, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Hart&Seek
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Essendon North, VIC 3041
If you're an adolescent or woman feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in unresolved past experiences, you're not alone. You might be exhausted by the internal chaos, constantly battling big emotions, or struggling to silence that critical inner voice. You want to feel grounded, confident, and free from the pasts' grip. You yearn to understand your emotions better, to stop feeling like 'too much', or 'not enough', and to genuinely feel at peace within yourself, finally embracing all the parts that you, you.
If you're an adolescent or woman feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in unresolved past experiences, you're not alone. You might be exhausted by the internal chaos, constantly battling big emotions, or struggling to silence that critical inner voice. You want to feel grounded, confident, and free from the pasts' grip. You yearn to understand your emotions better, to stop feeling like 'too much', or 'not enough', and to genuinely feel at peace within yourself, finally embracing all the parts that you, you.
(03) 8104 9305 View (03) 8104 9305
Photo of Dr Pauline Hall, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Pauline Hall
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
My practice supports adults experiencing psychological injury, trauma, and complex mental health conditions, including individuals in CTP and medico-legal contexts. Presentations commonly include PTSD, anxiety, depression, and neurodevelopmental conditions such as Autism and ADHD, often in the context of workplace or significant life stressors. Clients typically seek clarity, validation, and a structured path forward. Services are culturally sensitive and evidence-based, integrating thorough assessment with targeted intervention to support recovery, functional improvement, and informed decision-making.
My practice supports adults experiencing psychological injury, trauma, and complex mental health conditions, including individuals in CTP and medico-legal contexts. Presentations commonly include PTSD, anxiety, depression, and neurodevelopmental conditions such as Autism and ADHD, often in the context of workplace or significant life stressors. Clients typically seek clarity, validation, and a structured path forward. Services are culturally sensitive and evidence-based, integrating thorough assessment with targeted intervention to support recovery, functional improvement, and informed decision-making.
(02) 9411 7837 View (02) 9411 7837
Psychodynamic Therapists
Is psychodynamic therapy evidence-based?
Studies have found psychodynamic therapy to be effective in treating conditions like social anxiety, eating disorders, chronic pain, some personality disorders, and depression; indeed, some studies have found it to be just as effective as CBT or medication. What’s more, several studies have found that the benefits of psychodynamic therapy tend to endure—even grow—long after treatment has ended.

How long does psychodynamic therapy last?
Unlike CBT and other more structured forms of therapy, psychodynamic therapy tends to be open-ended and may not be limited to a set number of sessions. It is common for clients to be in therapy for a year or longer and to see their therapist one to three times a week, though the exact schedule and timeline may vary depending on a client’s challenges and progress. However, brief psychodynamic therapy is available, which tends to be more goal-oriented and typically unfolds over 16 to 30 sessions.

Does psychodynamic therapy work?
Research finds that psychodynamic therapy can help someone manage or reduce symptoms of diagnosable mental health conditions like depression or anxiety. The modality may also offer a range of benefits that are harder to measure but just as valuable—such as increased self-worth or healthier relationships. While no therapy type will work for everyone, research and anecdotal evidence suggest that psychodynamic therapy can be highly effective.

What are the limitations of psychodynamic therapy?
Some meta-analyses have concluded that there is little evidence to suggest that psychodynamic therapy can effectively treat certain mental health conditions such as PTSD, OCD, or psychosis, though it is sometimes used to do so. More broadly, the open-ended, free-association structure of psychodynamic therapy may be frustrating for clients who prefer a more structured, time-limited, or goal-oriented approach.