Family Psychologists and Therapists in Whittlesea

Photo of Rebecca Harris, Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Rebecca Harris
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I enjoy working with a diverse range of people. My approach brings together mind, body, emotion, and spirit, utilising a range of approaches and interventions such as: Polyvagal theory; somatic psychotherapy; cognitive approaches, mindfulness, and EMDR. I meet clients where they are at, regardless of situation, age, goals or struggles. I believe that each individual is the expert in their own lives and has within them the capacity for growth and healing, but I know that sometimes it can be helpful to have someone walking alongside, supporting the development of the insights and changes that lead to improved wellbeing.
I enjoy working with a diverse range of people. My approach brings together mind, body, emotion, and spirit, utilising a range of approaches and interventions such as: Polyvagal theory; somatic psychotherapy; cognitive approaches, mindfulness, and EMDR. I meet clients where they are at, regardless of situation, age, goals or struggles. I believe that each individual is the expert in their own lives and has within them the capacity for growth and healing, but I know that sometimes it can be helpful to have someone walking alongside, supporting the development of the insights and changes that lead to improved wellbeing.
(03) 8400 0272 View (03) 8400 0272
Photo of Kirsten Perrins, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Kirsten Perrins
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I love supporting adults, young people and their families to understand themselves, and supporting adults to rewrite their life stories with a new affirming lens.
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+.
I love supporting adults, young people and their families to understand themselves, and supporting adults to rewrite their life stories with a new affirming lens.
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 Kristine Lutter, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Kristine Lutter
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialise in anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, trauma, self esteem/self worth, guilt, shame, family of origin issues, bullying and people struggling with infertility. My approach is holistic looking at the physical, social, spiritual (values) and emotional aspects. I attempt to ensure clients feel safe and comfortable before they are able to share what has happened to them. With my experience in this industry, I have trained and supervise counsellors. This has helped me to deepen my understanding of what clients need. Available for online throughout Australia.
I specialise in anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, trauma, self esteem/self worth, guilt, shame, family of origin issues, bullying and people struggling with infertility. My approach is holistic looking at the physical, social, spiritual (values) and emotional aspects. I attempt to ensure clients feel safe and comfortable before they are able to share what has happened to them. With my experience in this industry, I have trained and supervise counsellors. This has helped me to deepen my understanding of what clients need. Available for online throughout Australia.
(03) 8104 9918 View (03) 8104 9918
Photo of Sonia Khodabakhsh, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Sonia Khodabakhsh
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I have worked in different settings such as private practice and community mental health centres offering a full range of psychological interventions to individuals, couples and families.
Welcome! I believe that with appropriate support, we have the inherent potential to move beyond suffering, toward a life of meaning and purpose. My goal is to support every individual to enhance their well- being and life satisfaction and reach their goals. I am an integrative therapist. I draw on a range of evidence-based interventions to ensure a client-specific approach to therapy.
I have worked in different settings such as private practice and community mental health centres offering a full range of psychological interventions to individuals, couples and families.
Welcome! I believe that with appropriate support, we have the inherent potential to move beyond suffering, toward a life of meaning and purpose. My goal is to support every individual to enhance their well- being and life satisfaction and reach their goals. I am an integrative therapist. I draw on a range of evidence-based interventions to ensure a client-specific approach to therapy.
(03) 6160 5409 View (03) 6160 5409
Photo of Jamie Camamile, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Jamie Camamile
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I also have a strong interest and experience working with trauma, including veterans and both survivors and perpetrators of family violence.
I work from a holistic, strengths-based approach to help empower you on your journey whilst using various evidence based techniques to support the process such as CBT, ACT and trauma informed techniques such as PE and EMDR. I am flexible in offering telehealth and face to face appointments and will be guided by your needs.
I also have a strong interest and experience working with trauma, including veterans and both survivors and perpetrators of family violence.
I work from a holistic, strengths-based approach to help empower you on your journey whilst using various evidence based techniques to support the process such as CBT, ACT and trauma informed techniques such as PE and EMDR. I am flexible in offering telehealth and face to face appointments and will be guided by your needs.
(03) 4713 9244 View (03) 4713 9244
Jess Koh
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L3
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I work with individuals living with anxiety, burnout, low self-esteem, perfectionism, and challenges navigating family dynamics or life transitions.
I offer a practical, personalised and trauma-informed approach, blending proven techniques with reflective spaces to reconnect with your values and humanity. Whether it's burnout, anxiety or navigating life transitions, let's make space for grief, change and messy growth. Let's honour your need for real change, authentic connections and build on strengths.
I work with individuals living with anxiety, burnout, low self-esteem, perfectionism, and challenges navigating family dynamics or life transitions.
I offer a practical, personalised and trauma-informed approach, blending proven techniques with reflective spaces to reconnect with your values and humanity. Whether it's burnout, anxiety or navigating life transitions, let's make space for grief, change and messy growth. Let's honour your need for real change, authentic connections and build on strengths.
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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr Anastasiya Suetin, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Anastasiya Suetin
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Bayswater North, VIC 3153
I believe that a thoughtful assessment can be a powerful turning point, helping individuals and families better understand strengths, challenges and the pathways forward.
I see clients with ADHD, autism, giftedness, learning difficulties, anxiety or mood concerns. Many feel misunderstood or unsure about their differences, whether seeking answers for their child or exploring their own neurodivergent identity. At the core, they are looking to be understood, supported and to move toward a more balanced and authentic life.
I believe that a thoughtful assessment can be a powerful turning point, helping individuals and families better understand strengths, challenges and the pathways forward.
I see clients with ADHD, autism, giftedness, learning difficulties, anxiety or mood concerns. Many feel misunderstood or unsure about their differences, whether seeking answers for their child or exploring their own neurodivergent identity. At the core, they are looking to be understood, supported and to move toward a more balanced and authentic life.
(03) 8203 5419 View (03) 8203 5419
Photo of Dianne Mawby, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dianne Mawby
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Malvern, VIC 3144
In your family or as a couple, poor communication may be causing feelings of stress and tension.
Dianne works with presentations of anxiety, depression, childhood and adolescent challenges, sleep issues, interpersonal difficulties, grief and loss. Dianne uses a range of therapies that might include Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, ACT, Strengths based approach, Family systems and Mindfulness.
In your family or as a couple, poor communication may be causing feelings of stress and tension.
Dianne works with presentations of anxiety, depression, childhood and adolescent challenges, sleep issues, interpersonal difficulties, grief and loss. Dianne uses a range of therapies that might include Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, ACT, Strengths based approach, Family systems and Mindfulness.
0492 811 032 View 0492 811 032
Photo of Arianna Buratti, Psychologist, MAPS
Arianna Buratti
Psychologist, MAPS
Carlton, VIC 3053
Arianna has a strong interest in working with people enduring a range of difficulties including anxiety, low mood, emotional instability, trauma, stress, attention deficit and hyperactivity related challenges, and conflict in relationships.
Arianna has a strong interest in working with people enduring a range of difficulties including anxiety, low mood, emotional instability, trauma, stress, attention deficit and hyperactivity related challenges, and conflict in relationships.
(03) 9605 3509 View (03) 9605 3509
Photo of Stephanie Schiftan, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Stephanie Schiftan
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Thornbury, VIC 3071
I work with couples navigating the complexities of intimate life: conflict, disconnection, communication, trust, and the quieter question of whether a relationship can become what both people need it to be. My approach is warm, attachment-informed, and grounded in slowing down reactive patterns to understand what sits beneath them - the emotional meanings, earlier experiences, and unmet needs that often drive disconnection. I draw on EFT, Gottman, narrative approaches, and psychodynamic principles, tailored to each couple. I work with all relationship stages and warmly welcome LGBTQI+ clients and diverse relationship structures.
I work with couples navigating the complexities of intimate life: conflict, disconnection, communication, trust, and the quieter question of whether a relationship can become what both people need it to be. My approach is warm, attachment-informed, and grounded in slowing down reactive patterns to understand what sits beneath them - the emotional meanings, earlier experiences, and unmet needs that often drive disconnection. I draw on EFT, Gottman, narrative approaches, and psychodynamic principles, tailored to each couple. I work with all relationship stages and warmly welcome LGBTQI+ clients and diverse relationship structures.
0452 614 105 View 0452 614 105
Photo of Harry C Monaghan - Harry Monaghan (IFS Therapy) , Psychotherapist, MPsych
Harry Monaghan (IFS Therapy)
Psychotherapist, MPsych
Online Only
I am an experienced psychotherapist, having worked for more than 10 years as a clinician in the community mental health field supporting young people, adolescents, adults and families facing significant complex trauma.
Having worked with many different therapeutic modalities I now primarily use Internal Family Systems (IFS) because it offers the most compassionate and effective way I know to understand and work with the full complexity of human experience and create deep and lasting healing. I integrate somatic, polyvagal, AEDP and mindfulness based practices.
I am an experienced psychotherapist, having worked for more than 10 years as a clinician in the community mental health field supporting young people, adolescents, adults and families facing significant complex trauma.
Having worked with many different therapeutic modalities I now primarily use Internal Family Systems (IFS) because it offers the most compassionate and effective way I know to understand and work with the full complexity of human experience and create deep and lasting healing. I integrate somatic, polyvagal, AEDP and mindfulness based practices.
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Photo of Uma Symons, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Uma Symons
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Online Only
Therapy is a highly individual experience that should centre your needs and your level of comfort. Uma provides a warm and empathetic approach to therapy, with an appreciation for what your unique strengths and insights can bring to therapy. Uma has lived experience as a person with ADHD, as well as experience building community within environmental and youth advocacy spaces. Uma works primarily within values-based modalities such as Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, but can also provide Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Narrative Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Therapy is a highly individual experience that should centre your needs and your level of comfort. Uma provides a warm and empathetic approach to therapy, with an appreciation for what your unique strengths and insights can bring to therapy. Uma has lived experience as a person with ADHD, as well as experience building community within environmental and youth advocacy spaces. Uma works primarily within values-based modalities such as Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, but can also provide Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Narrative Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy.
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Photo of Danielle Mundey - Still I RiseCounselling, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Still I RiseCounselling
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Online Only
I am an ACA-accredited counsellor providing trauma-informed, online support for individuals navigating domestic and family violence, sexual trauma, parenting challenges, and the unique pressures of FIFO life. Drawing on both professional training and lived experience, I offer a compassionate, non-judgemental space where clients feel safe to explore, heal, and rebuild. My approach is grounded, practical, and centred around helping you regain clarity, emotional balance, and a sense of control.
I am an ACA-accredited counsellor providing trauma-informed, online support for individuals navigating domestic and family violence, sexual trauma, parenting challenges, and the unique pressures of FIFO life. Drawing on both professional training and lived experience, I offer a compassionate, non-judgemental space where clients feel safe to explore, heal, and rebuild. My approach is grounded, practical, and centred around helping you regain clarity, emotional balance, and a sense of control.
(07) 4516 9358 View (07) 4516 9358
Photo of Jean Hansen, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Jean Hansen
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Fitzroy, VIC 3065
At our Fitzroy and Hobart clinics, we offer a serene, supportive environment for individuals, couples, and families.
I take a warm, compassionate, trauma-informed approach, creating a safe, non-judgmental space for healing. Believing clients are experts in their own lives, I empower them using evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, ACT, and Schema Therapy. I’m also trained in CBT-E to support those with eating disorders, tailoring treatment to each client’s unique needs.
At our Fitzroy and Hobart clinics, we offer a serene, supportive environment for individuals, couples, and families.
I take a warm, compassionate, trauma-informed approach, creating a safe, non-judgmental space for healing. Believing clients are experts in their own lives, I empower them using evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, ACT, and Schema Therapy. I’m also trained in CBT-E to support those with eating disorders, tailoring treatment to each client’s unique needs.
(03) 9448 8028 View (03) 9448 8028
Photo of Louise Pearson - Louise Pearson Counselling, Counsellor, AMHSW
Louise Pearson Counselling
Counsellor, AMHSW
Heidelberg, VIC 3084
Perhaps you are dealing with grief or bereavement, chronic illness or disability, are having relationship difficulties or are struggling with anxiety and depression. Perhaps you are simply feeling the need for change in your life but are unsure of what that change might look like. I work with a wide range of people and issues, always starting from where you are at. I believe that when you feel supported, positive change can occur.
Perhaps you are dealing with grief or bereavement, chronic illness or disability, are having relationship difficulties or are struggling with anxiety and depression. Perhaps you are simply feeling the need for change in your life but are unsure of what that change might look like. I work with a wide range of people and issues, always starting from where you are at. I believe that when you feel supported, positive change can occur.
(03) 7003 2875 View (03) 7003 2875
Photo of Robin Wilkinson - Robin Wilkinson- Right Relationship, Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Robin Wilkinson- Right Relationship
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Brunswick, VIC 3056
I have trained in relationship therapy, family therapy, attachment-based therapy, sex therapy and applied neuroscience.
You’re longing for a relationship that feels safe, connected, and honest, whether you’re navigating conflict, repair after infidelity, communication breakdowns, mismatched needs, or the complexity of being in a neurodiverse partnership. You want clarity, trust, and emotional grounding, but feel stuck in patterns you can’t shift alone. Attachment wounds, unresolved conflicts and unexpected triggers keep getting in the way. You're stuck in a vicious relationship spiral. You value depth, growth, and authentic connection, and you’re ready for support that honours your identities, your values, and the way you love.
I have trained in relationship therapy, family therapy, attachment-based therapy, sex therapy and applied neuroscience.
You’re longing for a relationship that feels safe, connected, and honest, whether you’re navigating conflict, repair after infidelity, communication breakdowns, mismatched needs, or the complexity of being in a neurodiverse partnership. You want clarity, trust, and emotional grounding, but feel stuck in patterns you can’t shift alone. Attachment wounds, unresolved conflicts and unexpected triggers keep getting in the way. You're stuck in a vicious relationship spiral. You value depth, growth, and authentic connection, and you’re ready for support that honours your identities, your values, and the way you love.
(03) 7003 2077 View (03) 7003 2077
Photo of Emma Brown-Davies - Counselling and Wellbeing, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Counselling and Wellbeing
Counsellor, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Online Only
With more than 23 years in the helping professions in the UK and Australia, in various health, education, mental health areas across the lifespan, I'm able to support people with a wide range of presenting issues to support people navigating life's challenges. It can feel like no one gets it sometimes, even those closest to you. Wanting someone to listen to you who really gets it, I truly do and I know how to support you. I provide an opportunity to explore what you're experiencing with compassion focused on guiding you towards health and wellbeing.
With more than 23 years in the helping professions in the UK and Australia, in various health, education, mental health areas across the lifespan, I'm able to support people with a wide range of presenting issues to support people navigating life's challenges. It can feel like no one gets it sometimes, even those closest to you. Wanting someone to listen to you who really gets it, I truly do and I know how to support you. I provide an opportunity to explore what you're experiencing with compassion focused on guiding you towards health and wellbeing.
(08) 6206 8179 View (08) 6206 8179
Photo of Dr Bronte McLeod, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Dr Bronte McLeod
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
South Yarra, VIC 3141
Our inner world holds deep wisdom, often hidden beneath the stories we tell ourselves. By tuning into our emotions and listening to our bodies, we can uncover a personal map to a more meaningful life. With support and encouragement, we can recognise what we long for, what we need, ‘what truly feels right for me'. Together, we can explore how past experiences and the world around you shape your present-moment experience. When you become aware of old patterns, you can decide which ones still serve you - and which ones don’t - allowing you to step into new ways of being that bring greater connection, fulfilment, health, and wellbeing.
Our inner world holds deep wisdom, often hidden beneath the stories we tell ourselves. By tuning into our emotions and listening to our bodies, we can uncover a personal map to a more meaningful life. With support and encouragement, we can recognise what we long for, what we need, ‘what truly feels right for me'. Together, we can explore how past experiences and the world around you shape your present-moment experience. When you become aware of old patterns, you can decide which ones still serve you - and which ones don’t - allowing you to step into new ways of being that bring greater connection, fulfilment, health, and wellbeing.
0408 711 896 View 0408 711 896
Photo of Jacynta Hodges, Social Worker, MSc, AMHSW
Jacynta Hodges
Social Worker, MSc, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Specialising in high risk adolescents and adults, I offer contemporary psychoanalysis and EMDR resulting in powerful therapeutic benefits. Integrating several types of therapy (CBT, solution focused, problem solving), psychoanalysis informs my work in terms of the way I conceptualise the client's current problems and EMDR (as needed) results in a faster way of processing trauma. Combining these two therapies provides effective in-depth therapy with relatively brief therapy. If you have been suffering with unresolved psychological trauma, I can help you to overcome the problems that are keeping you from maximising your potential.
Specialising in high risk adolescents and adults, I offer contemporary psychoanalysis and EMDR resulting in powerful therapeutic benefits. Integrating several types of therapy (CBT, solution focused, problem solving), psychoanalysis informs my work in terms of the way I conceptualise the client's current problems and EMDR (as needed) results in a faster way of processing trauma. Combining these two therapies provides effective in-depth therapy with relatively brief therapy. If you have been suffering with unresolved psychological trauma, I can help you to overcome the problems that are keeping you from maximising your potential.
(03) 8771 4020 View (03) 8771 4020
Photo of Jackie Monteith - Sacred Space Counselling, Counsellor
Sacred Space Counselling
Counsellor
Olinda, VIC 3788
I have a councelling, teaching and Youth Work background with Post Grad Family Therapy, Degree Youth Work and Educational Diplomas
I have had over 20 years’ experience in the helping professions. I have worked as a Youth Worker with disadvantaged young people, a teacher in the community services sector and managing my own practice as a counsellor. In my work I use and apply varies therapeutic modalities including a solution-based approach underpinned by my extensive knowledge and experience.
I have a councelling, teaching and Youth Work background with Post Grad Family Therapy, Degree Youth Work and Educational Diplomas
I have had over 20 years’ experience in the helping professions. I have worked as a Youth Worker with disadvantaged young people, a teacher in the community services sector and managing my own practice as a counsellor. In my work I use and apply varies therapeutic modalities including a solution-based approach underpinned by my extensive knowledge and experience.
(03) 8203 5592 View (03) 8203 5592
FAQ - About Family Therapy
What do family therapists do?
A family therapist facilitates the process of understanding and improving how a family functions. The therapist will help family members develop empathy for one another. They’ll seek to understand existing patterns, misunderstandings, and conflicts that arise, in order to help the family arrive at a realistic, unified understanding and develop the coping skills they need to build stronger relationships.

How long does therapy for families take to work?
Therapy manifests differently in every family; a common time frame is 12 weekly sessions, but some families may see improvement after just a few weeks. Families should discuss their goals with the therapist at the beginning of the process and periodically revisit those goals to assess their progress together.

How can you encourage a family member to attend family therapy?
You can encourage family members to attend therapy by expressing with both love and concern the challenges you see and explaining how a therapist could help the family navigate those challenges together. An outside perspective can help everyone feel heard, get on the same page, and develop new skills. If family members are still hesitant, it may be helpful to emphasize that family therapy is short-term—it won’t last forever.

Is therapy for families effective?
Family therapy can significantly improve family dynamics and relationships. Research suggests that family therapy can help individuals understand their role in the family, communicate and solve problems together, reduce conflict and draw boundaries when necessary, and develop coping skills for stressors, major life changes, and mental or physical illnesses within the family.