Counselling in Wonthaggi, VIC

I have experience working with adults and adolescents aged 16 and older, addressing a wide range of presentations, severities, and co-morbidities. My primary focus is treating individuals experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, personality disorders, emotional dysregulation, interpersonal or relationship challenges, low motivation, and stress or burnout.
I have experience working with adults and adolescents aged 16 and older, addressing a wide range of presentations, severities, and co-morbidities. My primary focus is treating individuals experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, personality disorders, emotional dysregulation, interpersonal or relationship challenges, low motivation, and stress or burnout.

Sharon Churchill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Wonthaggi, VIC 3995
Waitlist for new clients
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, with experience in health, community and private settings. Alongside my undergraduate qualifications, I am near completion of a Master of Youth Mental Health (University of Melbourne) and specialise in adolescent mental health, family violence, sexual assault and generalist mental health issues.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, with experience in health, community and private settings. Alongside my undergraduate qualifications, I am near completion of a Master of Youth Mental Health (University of Melbourne) and specialise in adolescent mental health, family violence, sexual assault and generalist mental health issues.

Nature plus Nurture specialise in counselling for children, adolescents and families. The founder and Director 'Jen Rushani' is a qualified Child Play Therapist (Master of Child Play Therapy) with a background in Psychology and extensive career in Early Childhood Education and early intervention. Nature plus Nurture provide the following services, Child Play Therapy, Filial Therapy (educational model of family therapy), Adolescent Counselling, and a Learn to Play Program with a focus on building pretend play skills in young children.
Nature plus Nurture specialise in counselling for children, adolescents and families. The founder and Director 'Jen Rushani' is a qualified Child Play Therapist (Master of Child Play Therapy) with a background in Psychology and extensive career in Early Childhood Education and early intervention. Nature plus Nurture provide the following services, Child Play Therapy, Filial Therapy (educational model of family therapy), Adolescent Counselling, and a Learn to Play Program with a focus on building pretend play skills in young children.

Hi, I am Francesca. I offer therapeutic services both as an online counsellor and on-site as Equine assisted therapist. I create a safe and gentle space in which my clients can explore the difficult aspects of life and thereby gaining a deep understanding of their thoughts, emotions and the impact of our responses on self and others. When working on-site in my beautiful paddock in the hills of South Gippsland, the horses become our therapeutic partners supporting with co-regulation, communication of boundaries and nurture connection to other social beings and nature. More info on www.thehorsewithin.com.au
Hi, I am Francesca. I offer therapeutic services both as an online counsellor and on-site as Equine assisted therapist. I create a safe and gentle space in which my clients can explore the difficult aspects of life and thereby gaining a deep understanding of their thoughts, emotions and the impact of our responses on self and others. When working on-site in my beautiful paddock in the hills of South Gippsland, the horses become our therapeutic partners supporting with co-regulation, communication of boundaries and nurture connection to other social beings and nature. More info on www.thehorsewithin.com.au

I am passionate counsellor assisting women, young adults and children who may be experiencing issues with self-esteem, self-image, anxiety, low moods, etc. Each person is unique and requires an individual approach in meeting their specific needs.
I am passionate counsellor assisting women, young adults and children who may be experiencing issues with self-esteem, self-image, anxiety, low moods, etc. Each person is unique and requires an individual approach in meeting their specific needs.

I’m Alisoun, a Creative Arts and Somatic Therapist in Cowes, Phillip Island. I have learned through life experience and formal study to use creative expression, embodiment, and inquiry as powerful guides through some of life’s complex and difficult matters. I work with both children and adults, adopting a collaborative approach and offering 'more-than-verbal' methods for communication, understanding, and self-expression. I have a Masters in Therapeutic Arts Practice and am in my final year of training in Somatic Experiencing (c).
I’m Alisoun, a Creative Arts and Somatic Therapist in Cowes, Phillip Island. I have learned through life experience and formal study to use creative expression, embodiment, and inquiry as powerful guides through some of life’s complex and difficult matters. I work with both children and adults, adopting a collaborative approach and offering 'more-than-verbal' methods for communication, understanding, and self-expression. I have a Masters in Therapeutic Arts Practice and am in my final year of training in Somatic Experiencing (c).

My work in therapy includes experience in a range of emotional and psychological issues including depression, anxiety disorders (OCD, panic & generalised anxiety), trauma and PTSD (including complex trauma of historical sexual abuse and childhood trauma), relationship issues and personality disorders (such as BPD); as well as addiction problems (e.g. substance abuse, gambling, and pornography). Whilst these are all complex issues, I have also seen many people who are needing assistance with wanting to focus on living a better life, and working on strategies to improve and grow as a person or build their self esteem.
My work in therapy includes experience in a range of emotional and psychological issues including depression, anxiety disorders (OCD, panic & generalised anxiety), trauma and PTSD (including complex trauma of historical sexual abuse and childhood trauma), relationship issues and personality disorders (such as BPD); as well as addiction problems (e.g. substance abuse, gambling, and pornography). Whilst these are all complex issues, I have also seen many people who are needing assistance with wanting to focus on living a better life, and working on strategies to improve and grow as a person or build their self esteem.

Hello, my name is Susan Wilder and I am a dedicated and empathetic counsellor providing in-person support for adolescents, adults, couples and families in Cowes (Phillip Island/Bass Coast). Are you looking for a kind and gentle therapist for yourself or family member? Specialist services include; anxiety, depression, grief, relationships, family violence, trauma and neurodiversity. NDIS participants are supported to meet their plan goals through counselling.
Hello, my name is Susan Wilder and I am a dedicated and empathetic counsellor providing in-person support for adolescents, adults, couples and families in Cowes (Phillip Island/Bass Coast). Are you looking for a kind and gentle therapist for yourself or family member? Specialist services include; anxiety, depression, grief, relationships, family violence, trauma and neurodiversity. NDIS participants are supported to meet their plan goals through counselling.

Is your child or young person experiencing struggles? Do they worry, have trouble with friendships, or maybe they are upset, angry or avoid people? Have they experienced something traumatic or had a past where they were hurt or abused? I have many year's experience working with children, teens and their parents, including where experiences of trauma may have affected their ability to experience safe, joyful relating together. I provide a comfortable and safe space where play, art and music as well as talking are used to help young people connect to their feelings and work through their difficulties.
Individual adults welcome too.
Is your child or young person experiencing struggles? Do they worry, have trouble with friendships, or maybe they are upset, angry or avoid people? Have they experienced something traumatic or had a past where they were hurt or abused? I have many year's experience working with children, teens and their parents, including where experiences of trauma may have affected their ability to experience safe, joyful relating together. I provide a comfortable and safe space where play, art and music as well as talking are used to help young people connect to their feelings and work through their difficulties.
Individual adults welcome too.

Whether you are in need of brief, solution-focused counselling, or whether you require longer term support for long term and/or complex issues, I can provide a safe space in which we can work together towards your desired outcomes. I believe that everybody should be able to access professional support no matter what their background is or what their current issues are.
Whether you are in need of brief, solution-focused counselling, or whether you require longer term support for long term and/or complex issues, I can provide a safe space in which we can work together towards your desired outcomes. I believe that everybody should be able to access professional support no matter what their background is or what their current issues are.

Horses offer a non-judgment relationship, congruence, and transparency, something often many of us have been lacking in our lives. They can teach us how to be brave, how to manage big emotions and most importantly, because they are such magnificent creatures they sit with us while we deal with our stuff. EAP has been found to be an effective treatment for children, adolescents, and adults including: • Complicated Grief • Depression and anxiety • Difficult behaviours • Children and adolescents ‘at risk’ with maladaptive behaviours • Disruptive behaviours • Adolescents with depression, anxiety and low esteem •
Horses offer a non-judgment relationship, congruence, and transparency, something often many of us have been lacking in our lives. They can teach us how to be brave, how to manage big emotions and most importantly, because they are such magnificent creatures they sit with us while we deal with our stuff. EAP has been found to be an effective treatment for children, adolescents, and adults including: • Complicated Grief • Depression and anxiety • Difficult behaviours • Children and adolescents ‘at risk’ with maladaptive behaviours • Disruptive behaviours • Adolescents with depression, anxiety and low esteem •

Cardinia Equine Assisted Counselling and Learning
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Equine and Animal Assisted Psychotherapy is an innovative approach to clinical practice and psychotherapy where clients are invited into safe relational experiences with horses and animals to address therapeutic goals. This is engaging and effective for diverse clients including adults, children, adolescents, organisations, and specialist client groups.
Equine and Animal Assisted Psychotherapy is an innovative approach to clinical practice and psychotherapy where clients are invited into safe relational experiences with horses and animals to address therapeutic goals. This is engaging and effective for diverse clients including adults, children, adolescents, organisations, and specialist client groups.

Families + Adolescents with Neurodiversity. NDIS participants welcome. Counselling for Mums, Dads and Kids in a warm and nurturing online environment. Do you have a late diagnosis of autism or ADHD? Providing therapeutic support and kindness for all ages and stages. Grandparents and carers welcome.
Families + Adolescents with Neurodiversity. NDIS participants welcome. Counselling for Mums, Dads and Kids in a warm and nurturing online environment. Do you have a late diagnosis of autism or ADHD? Providing therapeutic support and kindness for all ages and stages. Grandparents and carers welcome.
More Therapists Nearby

Our sole focus is on your well-being and your unique journey towards healing and transition. Your needs, experiences, and aspirations are at the heart of everything we do. I am here to help you unburden yourself from the weight of difficult past experiences that may be holding you back. Together, we will explore the inner conflicts of your world.
Our sole focus is on your well-being and your unique journey towards healing and transition. Your needs, experiences, and aspirations are at the heart of everything we do. I am here to help you unburden yourself from the weight of difficult past experiences that may be holding you back. Together, we will explore the inner conflicts of your world.

Phoenix Rise Equine Therapies offers counselling whilst engaging with our amazing therapy horses. Our programs are for children, young people and adults including NDIS participants, with a focus on mental health support through somatic exploration with a holistic and trauma informed approach to healing the mind, body and spirit. We are passionate in supporting those who experience a range of issues including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, PTSD, trauma, challenging behaviours , difficulty in focus, plus so much more. We tailor our programs to our clients individual goals they are wanting to work towards.
Phoenix Rise Equine Therapies offers counselling whilst engaging with our amazing therapy horses. Our programs are for children, young people and adults including NDIS participants, with a focus on mental health support through somatic exploration with a holistic and trauma informed approach to healing the mind, body and spirit. We are passionate in supporting those who experience a range of issues including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, PTSD, trauma, challenging behaviours , difficulty in focus, plus so much more. We tailor our programs to our clients individual goals they are wanting to work towards.

Hello, are you feeling stuck or facing a difficult decision or experiencing a major life transition with feelings of extreme sadness, hopelessness and or anxiety? For some people, especially the older person it can be a challenging time for you trying to move through change with those persistent thoughts and feelings. My role is to support and guide you through your anxiety, loss & grief, hopelessness or major life transition. Together we can overcome the obstacles you have by noticing whats going on for you. I have a nursing background, this combined with my holistic counselling and life experience I can help you move forward.
Hello, are you feeling stuck or facing a difficult decision or experiencing a major life transition with feelings of extreme sadness, hopelessness and or anxiety? For some people, especially the older person it can be a challenging time for you trying to move through change with those persistent thoughts and feelings. My role is to support and guide you through your anxiety, loss & grief, hopelessness or major life transition. Together we can overcome the obstacles you have by noticing whats going on for you. I have a nursing background, this combined with my holistic counselling and life experience I can help you move forward.

Integrative Creative Companioning was developed after a decade of studying the nature of mind through the fields of yoga, psychology, philosophy and spirituality. Based on the intrinsic interconnection of body/mind/spirit/soul, this approach focuses on integrating expanded experiences through the body, to provide a relaxed resting place for mind- body.
Integrative Creative Companioning was developed after a decade of studying the nature of mind through the fields of yoga, psychology, philosophy and spirituality. Based on the intrinsic interconnection of body/mind/spirit/soul, this approach focuses on integrating expanded experiences through the body, to provide a relaxed resting place for mind- body.

Ali was tired of hearing stories from people seeking help for their mental health and failing. She saw an alternative that shifted away from a clinical setting as the key. Sitting in an office, talking about your worries and insecurities is intimidating and very difficult to do. While it takes a different kind of bravery to do this with an equine partner, the benefits are insurmountable. Heartline provides a unique opportunity for clients to connect with horses in a safe and supportive environment. Our program allows individuals to engage in experiential learning, fostering personal growth and self-discovery in real time.
Ali was tired of hearing stories from people seeking help for their mental health and failing. She saw an alternative that shifted away from a clinical setting as the key. Sitting in an office, talking about your worries and insecurities is intimidating and very difficult to do. While it takes a different kind of bravery to do this with an equine partner, the benefits are insurmountable. Heartline provides a unique opportunity for clients to connect with horses in a safe and supportive environment. Our program allows individuals to engage in experiential learning, fostering personal growth and self-discovery in real time.

Looking for a safe space to unpack and reflect? Welcome to Mangrove Counselling Co. With a masters degree in Counselling and a background in Psychology, I have worked in the field of mental health for over 10 years, most recently working as a trauma counsellor in the community sector. I work with adolescents and adults who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and childhood abuse & neglect. I am also happy to offer a space to individuals navigating through neurodivergence, questioning their gender identity or those wanting to explore and rediscover their authentic selves after a loss or big life transition.
Looking for a safe space to unpack and reflect? Welcome to Mangrove Counselling Co. With a masters degree in Counselling and a background in Psychology, I have worked in the field of mental health for over 10 years, most recently working as a trauma counsellor in the community sector. I work with adolescents and adults who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and childhood abuse & neglect. I am also happy to offer a space to individuals navigating through neurodivergence, questioning their gender identity or those wanting to explore and rediscover their authentic selves after a loss or big life transition.

I am a passionate, caring and dedicated European who loves helping others. I travel and engage with others with passion and am curious about the world and people. I have developed a reputation for an inquisitive and warm environment in the therapy room. I believe my good energy and genuine enthusiasm encourages people to learn about their mind and behaviour! I love working with kids, adolescents, and adults who have a strong desire to question and understand themselves in their own unique ways. I work collaboratively to develop an evidence-based treatment plan with my clients, empowering them to take control of their lives and goals
I am a passionate, caring and dedicated European who loves helping others. I travel and engage with others with passion and am curious about the world and people. I have developed a reputation for an inquisitive and warm environment in the therapy room. I believe my good energy and genuine enthusiasm encourages people to learn about their mind and behaviour! I love working with kids, adolescents, and adults who have a strong desire to question and understand themselves in their own unique ways. I work collaboratively to develop an evidence-based treatment plan with my clients, empowering them to take control of their lives and goals
See more therapy options for Wonthaggi
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Wonthaggi, VIC
10+
Average cost per session
$160
Counsellors in Wonthaggi, VIC who prioritize treating:
92% | Depression |
92% | Anxiety |
92% | Trauma and PTSD |
85% | Self Esteem |
85% | Stress |
69% | ADHD |
69% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
83% | NDIS |
17% | Other |
17% | Bupa |
How Counsellors in Wonthaggi, VIC see their clients
93% | In Person and Online | |
7% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Wonthaggi?
Search for nearby psychologists or counsellors by inputting your city, suburb, postcode, or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or postcode into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
Counsellors and Psychotherapists listed in the directory are members of the main professional associations, mainly the Australian Counselling Association and the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia. Psychologists must be registered in the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). Most Social Workers listed in the directory are members of the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW).
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given that professional memberships are not a statutory requirement for social workers, psychotherapists and counsellors in Australia, certain qualified professionals or organisations may choose not to maintain such memberships despite possessing the necessary qualifications. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given that professional memberships are not a statutory requirement for social workers, psychotherapists and counsellors in Australia, certain qualified professionals or organisations may choose not to maintain such memberships despite possessing the necessary qualifications. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counsellor?
Counsellors, psychotherapists and psychologists can all provide counselling or talking therapy and have credentials and experience that enable them to do so in Australia.
Psychologists have earned a 4 year undergraduate degree in psychology and have completed a postgraduate internship or postgraduate degree. Psychotherapists generally have an undergraduate degree in a health related field in addition to 3-4 years of specialist training in psychotherapy and a period of personal psychotherapy. In order to belong to a professional organisation such as the ACA or PACFA, counsellors and psychotherapists are required to have completed a certain level of AQF qualifications and/ or an approved training course as well as clinical and supervision hours. Social Workers registered with the AASW are required to have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Social Work from an accredited institution.
Psychologists have earned a 4 year undergraduate degree in psychology and have completed a postgraduate internship or postgraduate degree. Psychotherapists generally have an undergraduate degree in a health related field in addition to 3-4 years of specialist training in psychotherapy and a period of personal psychotherapy. In order to belong to a professional organisation such as the ACA or PACFA, counsellors and psychotherapists are required to have completed a certain level of AQF qualifications and/ or an approved training course as well as clinical and supervision hours. Social Workers registered with the AASW are required to have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Social Work from an accredited institution.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, the cost of a therapy session in Australia could be between $100 and $250. If you have private insurance, your plan may cover some if not all of your sessions. You should contact your insurance provider to determine if they provide coverage for therapy sessions and to determine what, if any, requirements they might have in order for your sessions to be covered, such as a referral from your GP or medical specialist.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. The Better Access Scheme is a government program offering Medicare rebates for mental health care. To access the program you will need to be assessed and diagnosed by your GP and get a Mental Health Plan. This will allow you to receive up to 10 individual sessions and 10 group sessions a year with practitioners who accept bulk billing, with no out of pocket costs for you.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. The Better Access Scheme is a government program offering Medicare rebates for mental health care. To access the program you will need to be assessed and diagnosed by your GP and get a Mental Health Plan. This will allow you to receive up to 10 individual sessions and 10 group sessions a year with practitioners who accept bulk billing, with no out of pocket costs for you.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your postcode.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Therapists who are part of a professional organisation such as the ACA, PACFA, or the APS are bound by an ethical framework that requires them to uphold a confidentiality agreement. Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship and only under specific circumstances, such as when there is the potential or known harm to the client or others or when a minor is in danger, will a therapist be obligated to break the agreement. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed during the initial consultation.