Attachment-based Psychologists and Therapists in Whittlesea, VIC

Photo of Kirsten Perrins, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Kirsten Perrins
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Kirsten's specific areas of interest include autism, ADHD, trauma and Eating Disorders. Her work is informed by evidence-based practice, largely working from a trauma-informed, attachment-focused, narrative and neuroaffirming perspective. Neurodevelopmental assessments are also available, undertaken from an affirming perspective, for ages 5+.
Kirsten's specific areas of interest include autism, ADHD, trauma and Eating Disorders. Her work is informed by evidence-based practice, largely working from a trauma-informed, attachment-focused, narrative and neuroaffirming perspective. Neurodevelopmental assessments are also available, undertaken from an affirming perspective, for ages 5+.
(03) 8400 0307 View (03) 8400 0307
Photo of Jamie Camamile, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Jamie Camamile
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
With over 10 years experience I work with a range of presentations including depression, anxiety, stress, OCD, grief and loss, interpersonal issues, sleep assistance and work place injuries. I also have a strong interest and experience working with trauma, including veterans and both survivors and perpetrators of family violence. I am a strong believer in positive psychology and the concept of accessing psychological support to accomplish self-growth.
With over 10 years experience I work with a range of presentations including depression, anxiety, stress, OCD, grief and loss, interpersonal issues, sleep assistance and work place injuries. I also have a strong interest and experience working with trauma, including veterans and both survivors and perpetrators of family violence. I am a strong believer in positive psychology and the concept of accessing psychological support to accomplish self-growth.
(03) 4713 9244 View (03) 4713 9244
Photo of Lavinia McSwain - Lavinia McSwain, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Lavinia McSwain
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I believe that everyone has a story and that each story is remarkable. I consider it a privilege to be part of your story and to support you along your journey. I am a registered psychologist and a lecturer with more than 16 years of experience working across hospital, community mental health, forensic, and university settings. I have provided psychological assistance to people from all walks of life. I am very aware that one size does not fit all in therapy, so I tailor individual treatment utilising evidence-based approaches, including CBT, ACT, Schema Therapy, DBT and EMDR.
I believe that everyone has a story and that each story is remarkable. I consider it a privilege to be part of your story and to support you along your journey. I am a registered psychologist and a lecturer with more than 16 years of experience working across hospital, community mental health, forensic, and university settings. I have provided psychological assistance to people from all walks of life. I am very aware that one size does not fit all in therapy, so I tailor individual treatment utilising evidence-based approaches, including CBT, ACT, Schema Therapy, DBT and EMDR.
(03) 7303 3862 View (03) 7303 3862
Photo of Erin Jones - Erin Jones Therapy (Art and Play Therapy), Psychotherapist, MA, AThR
Erin Jones Therapy (Art and Play Therapy)
Psychotherapist, MA, AThR
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have a passion working with people to improve their wellbeing and achieve the goals that they set for themselves. I am experienced working with individuals with complex chronic and acute illness and understand the complexities of illness and the impacts this has on a persons mental and emotion state. I also have a large and invested interest in supporting women as they navigate the journey into motherhood (matrescence) and the emotional challenges this can bring along with the change in identity and self. As a mother of 2 young children I understand first hand the day to day challenges being a mother can be.
I have a passion working with people to improve their wellbeing and achieve the goals that they set for themselves. I am experienced working with individuals with complex chronic and acute illness and understand the complexities of illness and the impacts this has on a persons mental and emotion state. I also have a large and invested interest in supporting women as they navigate the journey into motherhood (matrescence) and the emotional challenges this can bring along with the change in identity and self. As a mother of 2 young children I understand first hand the day to day challenges being a mother can be.
(03) 8104 9750 View (03) 8104 9750
Photo of Demi Bereza - Monument Counselling Kilmore, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Monument Counselling Kilmore
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
At Monument Counselling Kilmore we provide individualised counselling support to adults and children experiencing lifes challenges. Our practice is led by principal counsellor Demi Bereza who specialises in trauma support, as well as stress, anxiety, depression and relationship challenges. We want you to achieve your wellbeing goals and understand the importance of support that meets your needs. In your first session our priority is to make you feel comfortable with your counsellor, and build therapeutic goals. Future sessions will implement meaningful strategies. We aim to provide 'take aways' so you can build your growth.
At Monument Counselling Kilmore we provide individualised counselling support to adults and children experiencing lifes challenges. Our practice is led by principal counsellor Demi Bereza who specialises in trauma support, as well as stress, anxiety, depression and relationship challenges. We want you to achieve your wellbeing goals and understand the importance of support that meets your needs. In your first session our priority is to make you feel comfortable with your counsellor, and build therapeutic goals. Future sessions will implement meaningful strategies. We aim to provide 'take aways' so you can build your growth.
(03) 4421 6682 View (03) 4421 6682

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tegan Nedelkos, Social Worker, AMHSW
Tegan Nedelkos
Social Worker, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Kilmore, VIC 3764
My ideal clients are adults navigating overwhelm, grief, identity changes, chronic illness, oncology experiences, burnout, neurodivergence, or LGBTQIA+ journeys. Many come to counselling feeling stuck, exhausted, or unsure where to begin. I offer a calm, person‑centred, trauma‑aware space to explore what’s happening, build practical strategies, and reconnect with clarity, strength, and self‑compassion.
My ideal clients are adults navigating overwhelm, grief, identity changes, chronic illness, oncology experiences, burnout, neurodivergence, or LGBTQIA+ journeys. Many come to counselling feeling stuck, exhausted, or unsure where to begin. I offer a calm, person‑centred, trauma‑aware space to explore what’s happening, build practical strategies, and reconnect with clarity, strength, and self‑compassion.
(03) 4422 2056 View (03) 4422 2056
Photo of Cori Pignatelli, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Cori Pignatelli
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Online Only
Hi. My name is Cori. I am a person-centred, neuroaffirming therapist. My approach is collaborative, respectful, and centred on what matters most to you. I bring a sense of warmth and ease to sessions and understand us to be equals in the therapeutic process. I have significant experience working with people whose identities and experiences are not as often reflected in mainstream spaces and there are no topics off-limits. I work with clients on a broad range of topics and I'm drawn to doing deep work which expands your understanding of self and creates real, lasting changes to your mental health and wellness.
Hi. My name is Cori. I am a person-centred, neuroaffirming therapist. My approach is collaborative, respectful, and centred on what matters most to you. I bring a sense of warmth and ease to sessions and understand us to be equals in the therapeutic process. I have significant experience working with people whose identities and experiences are not as often reflected in mainstream spaces and there are no topics off-limits. I work with clients on a broad range of topics and I'm drawn to doing deep work which expands your understanding of self and creates real, lasting changes to your mental health and wellness.
0476 214 102 View 0476 214 102
Photo of Michele Watson, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Michele Watson
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Fitzroy North, VIC 3068
Hi, my name is Michele and I am a psychologist who works with adults experiencing emotional distress that prevents them from functioning well in their life. You may be experiencing anxiety, low mood, low energy or loss of interest in things. You may have grown up having painful and difficult experiences early in life which prevent you from functioning freely and creatively, or from forming positive relationships with others. I also offer Somatic Experiencing informed support to people recovering from the effects of difficult medical experiences, helping them regain a greater sense of safety, stability and connection with themselves.
Hi, my name is Michele and I am a psychologist who works with adults experiencing emotional distress that prevents them from functioning well in their life. You may be experiencing anxiety, low mood, low energy or loss of interest in things. You may have grown up having painful and difficult experiences early in life which prevent you from functioning freely and creatively, or from forming positive relationships with others. I also offer Somatic Experiencing informed support to people recovering from the effects of difficult medical experiences, helping them regain a greater sense of safety, stability and connection with themselves.
(03) 8595 5351 View (03) 8595 5351
Photo of Anthony Hurst, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Anthony Hurst
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Essendon, VIC 3040
Anthony is a Youth, Family, Couples & EMDR Psychologist, and the Director of Systemic Psychology. Clinically, Anthony frequently works with young people, couples, families and individuals experiencing a range of mental health issues. Professionally, Anthony has worked in private practice, schools, local government, consulting and currently as a postgraduate lecturer at The University of Melbourne.
Anthony is a Youth, Family, Couples & EMDR Psychologist, and the Director of Systemic Psychology. Clinically, Anthony frequently works with young people, couples, families and individuals experiencing a range of mental health issues. Professionally, Anthony has worked in private practice, schools, local government, consulting and currently as a postgraduate lecturer at The University of Melbourne.
(02) 4504 0120 View (02) 4504 0120
Photo of Melanie Anderson, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Melanie Anderson
Counsellor, ACA-L2
3 Endorsed
Ferntree Gully, VIC 3156
I am a specialist Counsellor with 14+ years experience supporting women in community and therapeutic settings. Women are incredible connectors that give so much of themselves to workplaces, families and community. Sometimes this can result in feeling disconnected from themselves. Women also experience relationship breakdowns, parenting challenges, loss, abuse and traumatic experiences. These can really rock the foundation of who we are. I can help you make sense of what has happened and how to move forward with who you are becoming and what you want for your life.
I am a specialist Counsellor with 14+ years experience supporting women in community and therapeutic settings. Women are incredible connectors that give so much of themselves to workplaces, families and community. Sometimes this can result in feeling disconnected from themselves. Women also experience relationship breakdowns, parenting challenges, loss, abuse and traumatic experiences. These can really rock the foundation of who we are. I can help you make sense of what has happened and how to move forward with who you are becoming and what you want for your life.
(03) 5907 5884 View (03) 5907 5884
Photo of Lee Cubis, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Lee Cubis
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Melbourne, VIC 3004
I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 18 years working in the health and disability sectors (as a support worker, assistant in nursing and Psychologist). I have an interest in working with people from LGBTQIA+ populations including individuals and relationship work. I have a strong understanding of the many ways that intimate relationships are structured. I als work with adults from all populations to manage anxiety disorders using effective and evidence-based interventions. I have a further interest in working with adults with disability including acquired brain injury, intellectual disability, ASD, and neuro-degenerative disease.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 18 years working in the health and disability sectors (as a support worker, assistant in nursing and Psychologist). I have an interest in working with people from LGBTQIA+ populations including individuals and relationship work. I have a strong understanding of the many ways that intimate relationships are structured. I als work with adults from all populations to manage anxiety disorders using effective and evidence-based interventions. I have a further interest in working with adults with disability including acquired brain injury, intellectual disability, ASD, and neuro-degenerative disease.
(03) 6316 1110 View (03) 6316 1110
Photo of Cody Tonkin, Psychologist, MPsych, Assoc MAPS
Cody Tonkin
Psychologist, MPsych, Assoc MAPS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Cody is a registered psychologist who likes to help you understand how your past can influence your present and to help you look at the roots of an issue. She likes to work towards long lasting change and uncover patterns that have developed over time, transform them and help you to develop a deeper sense of self. Cody works with a range of presentations including anxiety, stress, trauma and childhood trauma, life adjustments, depression, grief & loss, coping skills, life coaching, interpersonal or relationship difficulties and supervision.
Cody is a registered psychologist who likes to help you understand how your past can influence your present and to help you look at the roots of an issue. She likes to work towards long lasting change and uncover patterns that have developed over time, transform them and help you to develop a deeper sense of self. Cody works with a range of presentations including anxiety, stress, trauma and childhood trauma, life adjustments, depression, grief & loss, coping skills, life coaching, interpersonal or relationship difficulties and supervision.
(03) 9118 9048 View (03) 9118 9048
Photo of Ru Connolly, Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Ru Connolly
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Online Only
I’m Ru, an Integrative Psychotherapist. Psychotherapy supports both the processing of distressing experiences and the development of self-actualisation and insight. My approach is grounded in attachment and developmental perspectives, as well as systems and psychodynamic theories. I am guided by trauma-informed principles and use somatic practices. I work extensively with personality disorders and CPTSD.
I’m Ru, an Integrative Psychotherapist. Psychotherapy supports both the processing of distressing experiences and the development of self-actualisation and insight. My approach is grounded in attachment and developmental perspectives, as well as systems and psychodynamic theories. I am guided by trauma-informed principles and use somatic practices. I work extensively with personality disorders and CPTSD.
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Photo of Safaa Hakim, Counsellor, PACFA
Safaa Hakim
Counsellor, PACFA
Docklands, VIC 3008
I am compassionate about guiding my clients to explore their difficulties and strengthen their emotional wellbeing. I provide specific counselling in the areas of anxiety, stress, depression, and relationships; as well as behavioural and other cognitive issues, offering a wide range of counselling support to meet the needs of clients and an organisation’s employees.
I am compassionate about guiding my clients to explore their difficulties and strengthen their emotional wellbeing. I provide specific counselling in the areas of anxiety, stress, depression, and relationships; as well as behavioural and other cognitive issues, offering a wide range of counselling support to meet the needs of clients and an organisation’s employees.
(03) 9034 5950 View (03) 9034 5950
Photo of Lisa Torney, Social Worker, AMHSW
Lisa Torney
Social Worker, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Brunswick, VIC 3056
Sexual or relationship concerns can be difficult to talk about and may negatively impact our emotional well-being and mental health. Often people tell me they have not felt comfortable discussing sexuality with other therapists and seek me out to explore issues of concern without judgement. As an accredited psychosexual therapist and mental health social worker I have worked for nearly 30 years supporting people to improve their sexual and interpersonal relationships, manage depression, anxiety, low self esteem, body image issues, sexual pleasure post trauma, grief, loss, communication difficulties and other concerns.
Sexual or relationship concerns can be difficult to talk about and may negatively impact our emotional well-being and mental health. Often people tell me they have not felt comfortable discussing sexuality with other therapists and seek me out to explore issues of concern without judgement. As an accredited psychosexual therapist and mental health social worker I have worked for nearly 30 years supporting people to improve their sexual and interpersonal relationships, manage depression, anxiety, low self esteem, body image issues, sexual pleasure post trauma, grief, loss, communication difficulties and other concerns.
(03) 9118 9063 View (03) 9118 9063
Photo of Kara Makhetha, Counsellor, PACFA
Kara Makhetha
Counsellor, PACFA
Fitzroy North, VIC 3068
I work with adults who feel constantly anxious, overwhelmed, or burnt out, particularly those who are neurodivergent (ADHD and autism). You might find yourself masking at work, overthinking interactions, struggling to set boundaries, or feeling like your brain is always "on". My clients are high-functioning professionals or adults seeking clarity, relief, and practical strategies that fit their lifestyle. Whether you're navigating workplace stress, relationship challenges, or masking fatigue, I provide trauma-informed, neuroaffirming support to help you feel calmer, clearer, and more confident in your decisions and interactions.
I work with adults who feel constantly anxious, overwhelmed, or burnt out, particularly those who are neurodivergent (ADHD and autism). You might find yourself masking at work, overthinking interactions, struggling to set boundaries, or feeling like your brain is always "on". My clients are high-functioning professionals or adults seeking clarity, relief, and practical strategies that fit their lifestyle. Whether you're navigating workplace stress, relationship challenges, or masking fatigue, I provide trauma-informed, neuroaffirming support to help you feel calmer, clearer, and more confident in your decisions and interactions.
0400 538 613 View 0400 538 613
Photo of Jase George Dimos, Psychologist
Jase George Dimos
Psychologist
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Finding the right fit with a psychologist is not only important, but sometimes daunting. My name is Jase, and I opened Psychology in Balance with the vision of creating a space where clients can be well understood and motivated to become the best version of themselves - for themselves. I work with individuals and couples on a range of concerns, including anxiety, complex trauma, ADHD, relationship issues, emotional burnout, acute stress, attachment injuries, emotion regulation difficulties, and a lack of meaning or purpose. My practice is LGBTQIA+ informed and welcoming to all nationalities and spiritual dispositions.
Finding the right fit with a psychologist is not only important, but sometimes daunting. My name is Jase, and I opened Psychology in Balance with the vision of creating a space where clients can be well understood and motivated to become the best version of themselves - for themselves. I work with individuals and couples on a range of concerns, including anxiety, complex trauma, ADHD, relationship issues, emotional burnout, acute stress, attachment injuries, emotion regulation difficulties, and a lack of meaning or purpose. My practice is LGBTQIA+ informed and welcoming to all nationalities and spiritual dispositions.
0468 375 150 View 0468 375 150
Photo of Dr Sherilene Carr, Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Dr Sherilene Carr
Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Prahran, VIC 3181
I work with people who have experienced significant life-stressors and trauma, and related symptoms of depression and anxiety. My approach is to sit alongside you as you explore how these stressful life events have impacted you, your relationships with others, and your opportunities. My first priority is to develop a strong therapeutic alliance with you, grounded in respect and authenticity, to enable you to feel safe in the process. My goal is to guide and support you as you process what has happened to you and how you can move towards a future of good mental health and wellbeing.
I work with people who have experienced significant life-stressors and trauma, and related symptoms of depression and anxiety. My approach is to sit alongside you as you explore how these stressful life events have impacted you, your relationships with others, and your opportunities. My first priority is to develop a strong therapeutic alliance with you, grounded in respect and authenticity, to enable you to feel safe in the process. My goal is to guide and support you as you process what has happened to you and how you can move towards a future of good mental health and wellbeing.
(03) 9118 9021 View (03) 9118 9021
Photo of Biljana Vukovic, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Biljana Vukovic
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Pascoe Vale, VIC 3044
Biljana is a registered psychologist and a member of the Australian Association of Psychologists. She works with adults, adolescents and children from a trauma-informed perspective on a range of issues including depression, anxiety, unhelpful coping mechanisms, body image and self-esteem issues, anger management, addiction issues, relationship difficulties, and issues related to identity and sexuality. Biljana enjoys working with clients from many different socio-cultural backgrounds and is invested in ensuring that her practice provides a safe space for clients from marginalised communities.
Biljana is a registered psychologist and a member of the Australian Association of Psychologists. She works with adults, adolescents and children from a trauma-informed perspective on a range of issues including depression, anxiety, unhelpful coping mechanisms, body image and self-esteem issues, anger management, addiction issues, relationship difficulties, and issues related to identity and sexuality. Biljana enjoys working with clients from many different socio-cultural backgrounds and is invested in ensuring that her practice provides a safe space for clients from marginalised communities.
(03) 8372 0530 View (03) 8372 0530
Photo of Mira Chazan, Social Worker, AASW
Mira Chazan
Social Worker, AASW
Fitzroy, VIC 3065
Trauma and ongoing stress can leave survival energy stuck in the nervous system. We may adapt by seeking or avoiding certain situations, or hold tension to protect ourselves from difficult feelings and sensations. While these strategies once helped us cope and survive, they can also leave us feeling trapped and disconnected. Together, we work with sensitivity and compassion, bringing gentle awareness and support to underlying patterns without pressure to force change. At your pace, we create the conditions for the nervous system to gradually settle and reorganise, allowing inner security, vitality and connection to emerge.
Trauma and ongoing stress can leave survival energy stuck in the nervous system. We may adapt by seeking or avoiding certain situations, or hold tension to protect ourselves from difficult feelings and sensations. While these strategies once helped us cope and survive, they can also leave us feeling trapped and disconnected. Together, we work with sensitivity and compassion, bringing gentle awareness and support to underlying patterns without pressure to force change. At your pace, we create the conditions for the nervous system to gradually settle and reorganise, allowing inner security, vitality and connection to emerge.
(03) 9070 5249 View (03) 9070 5249
Attachment-based Therapists
Is attachment-based therapy the same as attachment therapy?
Attachment-based therapy may be confused with what is called “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy”), a discredited and dangerous approach to treating children with attachment disorders, autism, or other mental health concerns. Attachment therapy—not attachment-based therapy—may involve restraining a child, forcing eye contact, and other coercive or abusive techniques. None of these practices are used in attachment-based therapy and the two modalities are in no way related.

What should I expect from attachment-based therapy?
Attachment-based therapy is based on attachment theory, which posits that children’s early relationships with their caregivers strongly influence their ability to navigate the world later in life. Thus, adults who seek attachment-based therapy should expect to deeply explore their childhood, identifying the dynamics or experiences that disrupted their attachment and the steps necessary to overcome challenges that arose as a result. Parents and children should expect to explore the possible factors that disrupted the parent-child relationship and work toward restoring trust and connection.

How long does attachment-based therapy last?
Certain forms of attachment-based therapy, especially those designed for parents and children, last for a set number of sessions; for example, Attachment and Biobehavioural Catch-Up, a specific attachment-based approach for young children who have undergone early adversity, unfolds over 10 one-hour sessions. When attachment-based therapy is practiced on adults or combined with other modalities, it may not last a specific length of time; clients may wish to ask prospective therapists how long they expect treatment to take.

Does attachment-based therapy work?
Most of the research on attachment-based therapy focuses on children and adolescents. Some of this research shows a positive effect, especially for attachment-based family therapy (ABFT). Other studies, however, have found that attachment-based therapy is no more effective than other approaches to childhood depression, anxiety, or suicidality. Less is known about the therapy’s efficacy on adult populations.