Positive Psychology Counselling in Victoria

Photo of Clarissa Wijaya, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Clarissa Wijaya
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Maribyrnong, VIC 3032
I am a trained counsellor and positive psychology practitioner who is passionate and interested to work collaboratively with clients to listen, explore, understand, empathise, and empower them.
As someone who had a lived experience of severe anxiety, I understand that little things can easily overwhelm you. Simple things can be difficult to do without expending so much nervous energy that by the end you feel so drained and exhausted. Sometimes to feel better and in control, or even to overcome, you might simply need a listening ear or someone to guide and empower you to make decisions or simply someone to encourage you on and push through, I may be able to help you with that.
I am a trained counsellor and positive psychology practitioner who is passionate and interested to work collaboratively with clients to listen, explore, understand, empathise, and empower them.
As someone who had a lived experience of severe anxiety, I understand that little things can easily overwhelm you. Simple things can be difficult to do without expending so much nervous energy that by the end you feel so drained and exhausted. Sometimes to feel better and in control, or even to overcome, you might simply need a listening ear or someone to guide and empower you to make decisions or simply someone to encourage you on and push through, I may be able to help you with that.
(03) 8592 7055 View (03) 8592 7055
Photo of Chris Cunningham, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Chris Cunningham
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Managing stress and changing behaviour is a complex matter. It can be even tougher when you try to do it alone. My clients are looking for the tools to manage their situation effectively and bring about positive behaviour change and improved performance. The people I work with want the power that comes from combining the best elements of coaching, positive psychology with the best therapeutic practices, including both traditional and state of the art methods. They want both coaching support and clinical expertise to help them cope, build their resilience and ultimately thrive across a range of complex situations and experiences.
Managing stress and changing behaviour is a complex matter. It can be even tougher when you try to do it alone. My clients are looking for the tools to manage their situation effectively and bring about positive behaviour change and improved performance. The people I work with want the power that comes from combining the best elements of coaching, positive psychology with the best therapeutic practices, including both traditional and state of the art methods. They want both coaching support and clinical expertise to help them cope, build their resilience and ultimately thrive across a range of complex situations and experiences.
(03) 4014 9024 View (03) 4014 9024
Photo of Francesco Poci - People Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Francesco Poci - People Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton, VIC 3186
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) plus mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing (MI) and positive Psychology orientations are used to assist clients.
Francesco can help with your issues or concerns such as anxiety, depression and phobias. Francesco also has a particular interest working with clients in regard to sexual health concerns. He can help you with workplace concerns, career counselling, life change and existential concerns. In addition to holding a Master of Professional Psychology from Monash University, he also holds a Master of Science in Medicine (HIV, STIs and Sexual Health) from The University of Sydney. He is therefore interested in assisting clients in regard to couples counselling and sexual dysfunction.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) plus mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing (MI) and positive Psychology orientations are used to assist clients.
Francesco can help with your issues or concerns such as anxiety, depression and phobias. Francesco also has a particular interest working with clients in regard to sexual health concerns. He can help you with workplace concerns, career counselling, life change and existential concerns. In addition to holding a Master of Professional Psychology from Monash University, he also holds a Master of Science in Medicine (HIV, STIs and Sexual Health) from The University of Sydney. He is therefore interested in assisting clients in regard to couples counselling and sexual dysfunction.
(03) 9070 3565 View (03) 9070 3565
Photo of Justine Campbell, MA, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Justine Campbell
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Armadale, VIC 3143
Positive psychology is at the heart of my work.
Don't expect to see a change if you don't make one. I enable positive change. My clients may have seen a therapist or coach before, but it didn't change anything for them. They then come to me. They want to make lasting positive change in their lives, but they need somebody to give them structured tools and support them in the growth process. Change can be good, but it is not easy. Typically, my clients come to me feeling that living on auto-pilot or that they have lost touch with who they are at their core. They desire more life satisfaction and are prepared to work for it. They want to thrive not just survive.
Positive psychology is at the heart of my work.
Don't expect to see a change if you don't make one. I enable positive change. My clients may have seen a therapist or coach before, but it didn't change anything for them. They then come to me. They want to make lasting positive change in their lives, but they need somebody to give them structured tools and support them in the growth process. Change can be good, but it is not easy. Typically, my clients come to me feeling that living on auto-pilot or that they have lost touch with who they are at their core. They desire more life satisfaction and are prepared to work for it. They want to thrive not just survive.
(03) 7003 2183 View (03) 7003 2183
Photo of Dr Lyndel Cuesta, PhD, MAPS, Psychologist
Dr Lyndel Cuesta
Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Verified Verified
Parkdale, VIC 3195
I have also undertaken further studies including a PhD with a Positive Psychology focus on how to constructively cope with failures/setbacks.
When we learn how to constructively deal with our mental health challenges, we feel more at ease, more energized, and better able to pursue those things in life that nourish us and bring us joy; enabling us to thrive. I enjoy supporting and upskilling individuals who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, burnout, or grief & loss. As a registered Psychologist and full member of the APS, I have over 15 years experience in this field, and also regularly undertake further professional training to keep up to date with new developments in understanding and treating these concerns.
I have also undertaken further studies including a PhD with a Positive Psychology focus on how to constructively cope with failures/setbacks.
When we learn how to constructively deal with our mental health challenges, we feel more at ease, more energized, and better able to pursue those things in life that nourish us and bring us joy; enabling us to thrive. I enjoy supporting and upskilling individuals who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, burnout, or grief & loss. As a registered Psychologist and full member of the APS, I have over 15 years experience in this field, and also regularly undertake further professional training to keep up to date with new developments in understanding and treating these concerns.
0432 662 447 View 0432 662 447
Photo of undefined - Launch Psychology, PsyBA Endorsed, Psychologist
Launch Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
Essendon, VIC 3040
Our approach combines brain science, ACT, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness and positive psychology interventions.
Our philosophy is pretty simple. We believe in you. We want you to be the best version of yourself and we can join you on that journey. Our team at Launch Psychology, Dr. Daniela De Fazio, Dr. Brooke Davis, Dr. Kirrily Rogers and Dr. Ann Sloan, have a practical approach to understanding the psychology of where you are and where you'd like to go. Our focus is on using psychology and neuropsychology frameworks to help you develop the skills and habits to respond flexibly to whatever life deals you.
Our approach combines brain science, ACT, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness and positive psychology interventions.
Our philosophy is pretty simple. We believe in you. We want you to be the best version of yourself and we can join you on that journey. Our team at Launch Psychology, Dr. Daniela De Fazio, Dr. Brooke Davis, Dr. Kirrily Rogers and Dr. Ann Sloan, have a practical approach to understanding the psychology of where you are and where you'd like to go. Our focus is on using psychology and neuropsychology frameworks to help you develop the skills and habits to respond flexibly to whatever life deals you.
(03) 8595 5294 View (03) 8595 5294
Photo of Anna Inkster, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Anna Inkster
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seddon, VIC 3011  (Online Only)
My counselling practice is underpinned by evidence-based psychology theories and principles drawn from positive psychology, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) solution-focused therapy (SFT) and person-centred therapy.
Counselling is a practice that can be very helpful in times of emotional upheaval or periods when our mental health and well-being is suffering. In my practice I take a side by side approach, collaborating with you to explore and discover solutions to issues that are causing blockages and pain. Through working together with me , my clients improve their coping skills, boost self-esteem and achieve much wanted behaviour change, leading to optimal mental health and well-being. I have counselled clients in areas such as anxiety, depression, low -self esteem, loss of direction and family conflict and more.
My counselling practice is underpinned by evidence-based psychology theories and principles drawn from positive psychology, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) solution-focused therapy (SFT) and person-centred therapy.
Counselling is a practice that can be very helpful in times of emotional upheaval or periods when our mental health and well-being is suffering. In my practice I take a side by side approach, collaborating with you to explore and discover solutions to issues that are causing blockages and pain. Through working together with me , my clients improve their coping skills, boost self-esteem and achieve much wanted behaviour change, leading to optimal mental health and well-being. I have counselled clients in areas such as anxiety, depression, low -self esteem, loss of direction and family conflict and more.
(03) 6146 1669 View (03) 6146 1669
Photo of undefined - Mind Mosaics Psychology, MSc, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Mind Mosaics Psychology
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Bacchus Marsh, VIC 3340
Harpreet at Mind Mosacis engage in holistic treatment approaches using evidence based therapies like Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Schema Therapy, Solution Focussed Therapy, Positive Psychology and Trauma focussed treatments.
Mind Mosaics works with varied client presentations from general anxiety, depression to complex trauma providing them a safe and a non-judgmental space. Harpreet at Mind Mosaics offers counselling services to various age groups from teenage to elders and holds a research background in lifespan wellbeing. She practices a client centred Feedback Informed Treatment. Often clients respond well to treatment if they are psycho- educated, have goals clarity and holds a shared responsibility in the treatment.
Harpreet at Mind Mosacis engage in holistic treatment approaches using evidence based therapies like Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Schema Therapy, Solution Focussed Therapy, Positive Psychology and Trauma focussed treatments.
Mind Mosaics works with varied client presentations from general anxiety, depression to complex trauma providing them a safe and a non-judgmental space. Harpreet at Mind Mosaics offers counselling services to various age groups from teenage to elders and holds a research background in lifespan wellbeing. She practices a client centred Feedback Informed Treatment. Often clients respond well to treatment if they are psycho- educated, have goals clarity and holds a shared responsibility in the treatment.
(03) 4416 2328 View (03) 4416 2328
Photo of Jamie Camamile, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Jamie Camamile
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seymour, VIC 3660
NO WAIT list - 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.
NO WAIT list - 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 undefined - Embody Art Therapy, AThR, Counsellor
Embody Art Therapy
Counsellor, AThR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melbourne, VIC 3000
Within a person-centred, strengths-based, positive psychology art therapy framework, Clare brings respect, empathy, authenticity and a sense of humour to each session.
Clare, founder of Embody Art Therapy, is a Melbourne based registered art therapist, art therapy group facilitator, mental health and wellbeing advocate and contemporary artist with a longstanding passion for creativity, neuroscience and the mind-body connection. With extensive experience in the mental health field, Clare uses art making as a vehicle to deliver quality outcomes and positive change; enhancing the recovery and/or psychosocial functioning of individuals that may live with or have experienced a range of mental health issues or diagnoses, disability, neurodiversity, social isolation and/or homelessness.
Within a person-centred, strengths-based, positive psychology art therapy framework, Clare brings respect, empathy, authenticity and a sense of humour to each session.
Clare, founder of Embody Art Therapy, is a Melbourne based registered art therapist, art therapy group facilitator, mental health and wellbeing advocate and contemporary artist with a longstanding passion for creativity, neuroscience and the mind-body connection. With extensive experience in the mental health field, Clare uses art making as a vehicle to deliver quality outcomes and positive change; enhancing the recovery and/or psychosocial functioning of individuals that may live with or have experienced a range of mental health issues or diagnoses, disability, neurodiversity, social isolation and/or homelessness.
(03) 7500 5741 View (03) 7500 5741
Photo of undefined - The Safe Space Clinic , PsyBA General, Psychologist
The Safe Space Clinic
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Croydon, VIC 3136  (Online Only)
I use a variety of evidence-based approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) and positive psychology.
I am passionate in providing a safe and comfortable space for clients to feel listened too and understood. I work with children, adolescents and adults, who are experiencing a broad range of life challenges. This includes anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress, relationship difficulties, interpersonal difficulties, low self-esteem and confidence.
I use a variety of evidence-based approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) and positive psychology.
I am passionate in providing a safe and comfortable space for clients to feel listened too and understood. I work with children, adolescents and adults, who are experiencing a broad range of life challenges. This includes anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress, relationship difficulties, interpersonal difficulties, low self-esteem and confidence.
View
Photo of Rory McRae, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Rory McRae
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Williamstown, VIC 3016  (Online Only)
Rory utilises an eclectic approach to therapy and can provide Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Positive Psychology, Brief Solution Focussed Therapy, Family Therapy and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy.
Rory is a friendly and experienced registered psychologist with qualifications in psychology, careers development, exercise science and education. Rory believes developing excellent rapport is essential in therapy to ensure his clients feel comfortable and supported. Rory works with clients of all ages across a diverse range of issues. His special interests include anxiety, ADHD, depression, motivation and goal setting, trauma, bullying, low self esteem and relationship difficulties.
Rory utilises an eclectic approach to therapy and can provide Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Positive Psychology, Brief Solution Focussed Therapy, Family Therapy and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy.
Rory is a friendly and experienced registered psychologist with qualifications in psychology, careers development, exercise science and education. Rory believes developing excellent rapport is essential in therapy to ensure his clients feel comfortable and supported. Rory works with clients of all ages across a diverse range of issues. His special interests include anxiety, ADHD, depression, motivation and goal setting, trauma, bullying, low self esteem and relationship difficulties.
1800 327 477 x1 View 1800 327 477 x1
Photo of undefined - Sera Elmasri, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Sera Elmasri
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Camberwell, VIC 3124
This means that I am also trained in scientific approaches to improving well-being, and integrating positive psychology interventions (PPIs) with treatment and recovery goals, particularly relating to reducing stress and enhancing work performance.
I provide effective treatment for adults experiencing Anxiety, Panic attacks, OCD, Depression, Low Self -Esteem, Acute and Chronic stress & Burnout. My approach is to: (1) Understand the client as well as the environments in which they function (2) Teach clients effective techniques and coping strategies (3) Build strong skills to create sustainable change. Many people have seen various therapists throughout their lifetimes. Often they find themselves relapsing back to the same problems. Clients who undertake counselling with me will be guided on how to change long standing patterns of negative behaviours and progress forward.
This means that I am also trained in scientific approaches to improving well-being, and integrating positive psychology interventions (PPIs) with treatment and recovery goals, particularly relating to reducing stress and enhancing work performance.
I provide effective treatment for adults experiencing Anxiety, Panic attacks, OCD, Depression, Low Self -Esteem, Acute and Chronic stress & Burnout. My approach is to: (1) Understand the client as well as the environments in which they function (2) Teach clients effective techniques and coping strategies (3) Build strong skills to create sustainable change. Many people have seen various therapists throughout their lifetimes. Often they find themselves relapsing back to the same problems. Clients who undertake counselling with me will be guided on how to change long standing patterns of negative behaviours and progress forward.
(03) 7003 2802 View (03) 7003 2802
Photo of Henry Meghaizel, PhD, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Henry Meghaizel
Counsellor, PhD, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Scoresby, VIC 3179
I am a professional counsellor, trained in individual counselling, couples therapy, and Schema Focused Therapy; Dr of Philosophy, Research in Positive Psychology and Well-Being, Psychological well-being Practitioner, Director of Practical Wisdom Consulting. Have been working in the mental health sector for over 12 years. As a counsellor and practitioner, I have worked within the community and private sector. I support couples, and clients who experience depression, anxiety, past trauma, grief and loss, life's changes issues, relationships. I brings to my clients a compassionate, practical and scientific evidence based approaches.
I am a professional counsellor, trained in individual counselling, couples therapy, and Schema Focused Therapy; Dr of Philosophy, Research in Positive Psychology and Well-Being, Psychological well-being Practitioner, Director of Practical Wisdom Consulting. Have been working in the mental health sector for over 12 years. As a counsellor and practitioner, I have worked within the community and private sector. I support couples, and clients who experience depression, anxiety, past trauma, grief and loss, life's changes issues, relationships. I brings to my clients a compassionate, practical and scientific evidence based approaches.
(03) 7500 5123 View (03) 7500 5123
Photo of undefined - Positive Mind Works, MSc, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Positive Mind Works
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Ocean Grove, VIC 3226  (Online Only)
Positive Mind Works is a Telehealth Counselling, Psychology, and Psychiatry clinic. We provide support in the comfort and privacy of your own home for couples, adults, and young people. Positive Mind Works has been developed to provide convenient access to expert and confidential support. Clients are offered individualised support based on their goals and chosen focus. We specialise in treating depression, anxiety, panic, stress, relationship difficulties, grief, phobias, OCD, ADHD and PTSD/trauma. A coaching and positive psychology service are also offered for clients wishing to improve motivation toward their goals.
Positive Mind Works is a Telehealth Counselling, Psychology, and Psychiatry clinic. We provide support in the comfort and privacy of your own home for couples, adults, and young people. Positive Mind Works has been developed to provide convenient access to expert and confidential support. Clients are offered individualised support based on their goals and chosen focus. We specialise in treating depression, anxiety, panic, stress, relationship difficulties, grief, phobias, OCD, ADHD and PTSD/trauma. A coaching and positive psychology service are also offered for clients wishing to improve motivation toward their goals.
1800 327 477 View 1800 327 477
Photo of undefined - Happy Minds Psychology, MSc, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Happy Minds Psychology
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Ocean Grove, VIC 3226
I draw from a number of treatment modalities including Positive Psychology, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (I’ll explain this psych speak during our sessions!).
I work with women who are experiencing feelings of anxiety, loss or who are finding their new reality challenging. I work with women who have a voice inside their head that critcises and judges them. I work with women who are trying to conceive, are pregnant or who are already parents. I am experienced working with women and couples who are committed to pursuing their dream of having a family via IVF. I am passionate about helping parents manage the trials of parenting and create secure attachments to their young children.
I draw from a number of treatment modalities including Positive Psychology, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (I’ll explain this psych speak during our sessions!).
I work with women who are experiencing feelings of anxiety, loss or who are finding their new reality challenging. I work with women who have a voice inside their head that critcises and judges them. I work with women who are trying to conceive, are pregnant or who are already parents. I am experienced working with women and couples who are committed to pursuing their dream of having a family via IVF. I am passionate about helping parents manage the trials of parenting and create secure attachments to their young children.
(08) 9126 9440 View (08) 9126 9440
Photo of Karen Barnes, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Karen Barnes
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Caroline Springs, VIC 3023  (Online Only)
Karen is an Australian Registered Psychologist with a range of experience over clinical, vocational, and more complex settings. As well as holding full APS membership, she is also a member of the Positive Psychology, Trauma and Psychology, and Intellectual Disability and Autism groups. With a passion for Individuality and Neurodiversity, she applies this approach to every unique individual she works with to explore and develop the person’s strengths and talents to assist in empowering them to achieve their goals.
Karen is an Australian Registered Psychologist with a range of experience over clinical, vocational, and more complex settings. As well as holding full APS membership, she is also a member of the Positive Psychology, Trauma and Psychology, and Intellectual Disability and Autism groups. With a passion for Individuality and Neurodiversity, she applies this approach to every unique individual she works with to explore and develop the person’s strengths and talents to assist in empowering them to achieve their goals.
1800 327 477 View 1800 327 477
Photo of Judith Thomas, PsychD, MAPS, Psychologist
Judith Thomas
Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Verified Verified
Brighton, VIC 3186
Judith uses a variety of evidence based therapies including CBT, ACT, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Positive Psychology techniques, hypnotherapy and EMDR.
Judith has worked in Brighton for more than 25 years. She works with teenagers, adults and couples. She has a broad range of expertise in different therapies and has worked with clients requiring assistance for anxiety, depression, phobias, panic attacks, low self esteem, PTSD, relationship difficulties, parenting issues, and grief.
Judith uses a variety of evidence based therapies including CBT, ACT, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Positive Psychology techniques, hypnotherapy and EMDR.
Judith has worked in Brighton for more than 25 years. She works with teenagers, adults and couples. She has a broad range of expertise in different therapies and has worked with clients requiring assistance for anxiety, depression, phobias, panic attacks, low self esteem, PTSD, relationship difficulties, parenting issues, and grief.
(03) 7003 2741 View (03) 7003 2741
Photo of Dylan Robert Charles Arnot, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Dylan Robert Charles Arnot
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prahran, VIC 3181
I integrate best-practice mind and physiological sciences, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), coaching and positive psychology approaches.
I work with a diverse array of adult and adolescent clients, including high performers in the creative industries, sports and workplace leadership, as well as those experiencing challenges such as burnout, life transitions, anxiety, panic attacks, and ASD.
I integrate best-practice mind and physiological sciences, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), coaching and positive psychology approaches.
I work with a diverse array of adult and adolescent clients, including high performers in the creative industries, sports and workplace leadership, as well as those experiencing challenges such as burnout, life transitions, anxiety, panic attacks, and ASD.
(03) 7003 2867 View (03) 7003 2867
Photo of Peter John Webb, MSc, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Peter John Webb
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Hawthorn, VIC 3122
I use a range of psychotherapy approaches including cognitive behaviour therapy, schema therapy, mindfulness, positive psychology, integrative psychology, and my own research in the psychology of wisdom.
I can help you with stress, anxiety, or depression arising from toxic relationships at home or at work; facing a crossroad in life; strengthening your psychological well-being; overcoming negative mindset; enhancing your adult development; overcoming your self-sabotage patterns; and learning how to make wise choices in life.
I use a range of psychotherapy approaches including cognitive behaviour therapy, schema therapy, mindfulness, positive psychology, integrative psychology, and my own research in the psychology of wisdom.
I can help you with stress, anxiety, or depression arising from toxic relationships at home or at work; facing a crossroad in life; strengthening your psychological well-being; overcoming negative mindset; enhancing your adult development; overcoming your self-sabotage patterns; and learning how to make wise choices in life.
(03) 7003 2050 View (03) 7003 2050

See more therapy options for Victoria

Positive Psychology Counsellors

How does positive psychology therapy work?

Positive psychology therapy derives from the work of Martin Seligman of the University of Pennsylvania. He and others developed the field of positive psychology building on humanistic theory. Positive psychology therapy is similar to acceptance and commitment therapy, and it essentially quiets emotional distress through positivity, contentment, and well-being. This therapy does not reduce the individual to symptoms and conditions.

When do I know if I need treatment using positive psychology?

If an individual is overwhelmed by emotional distress and general negativity, they may feel trapped. A positive psychology therapist can help them view their emotions and behaviours differently, and approach life with a better understanding of their positive strengths. This therapy can provide an individual with the coping skills needed for a healthier and more constructive life.

What should I expect from positive psychology therapy?

The patient may be asked to explore their signature strengths. The therapist will also ask the individual to talk about their goals, which should be specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and timely. Discussing negative experiences and symptoms is important, but so is the exploration of positive experiences. The objective is to identify and lessen negative thoughts and behaviours and move toward optimal health and productivity. The individual will see life in a more positive and fulfilling way. This therapy is proactive and may use forgiveness, gratitude, hope, and compassion to help reframe negativity.

Is positive psychology effective in therapy?

Positive psychology therapy is evidence-based and effective. One study found that people with eating disorders benefit from this type of intervention. This therapy encourages the person to reframe their distressed thoughts and move into healthier patterns of functioning. This therapy also aims to move an individual toward what works well in their life. Positive psychology therapy can elicit lifelong change, with higher levels of satisfaction, less stress, as well as positive emotional and behavioural habits.