Adoption Counselling in Geelong, VIC

Photo of Veronica Knox, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member, Psychologist
Veronica Knox
Psychologist, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Verified Verified
Geelong, VIC 3220
Veronica Knox is a Psychologist , Resilience Coach who gets her ‘extraordinary moments’ through helping her clients so they can achieve their well-being goals. She brings ‘Purpose and Passion’ to her work. She makes the complex simple. Drawing from her knowledge and education in neuroscience, psychology and social science and her real life experiences. Her skill is in how we can be utilise our circle of influence ; build resilience; and identify our personal strengths and qualities to be our ‘best self’.
Veronica Knox is a Psychologist , Resilience Coach who gets her ‘extraordinary moments’ through helping her clients so they can achieve their well-being goals. She brings ‘Purpose and Passion’ to her work. She makes the complex simple. Drawing from her knowledge and education in neuroscience, psychology and social science and her real life experiences. Her skill is in how we can be utilise our circle of influence ; build resilience; and identify our personal strengths and qualities to be our ‘best self’.
0438 094 883 View 0438 094 883
Photo of Kate E Lithgow - Enhance Wellbeing Counselling , MA, AMHSW, Counsellor
Enhance Wellbeing Counselling
Counsellor, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Geelong, VIC 3220
Whatever your story, whatever circumstances, at Enhance Wellbeing Counselling we hope that you find support, recovery and healing you need here.  We believe in people and the power of positive change that it is possible; and when we find the keys that are individual to each unique set of circumstances we can bring that change about.  Utilising evidence based therapies such as EMDR, CBT and psychoanalysis, we bring expert, high quality psychological therapy to you, in face to face or Telehealth. We are a highly qualified and experienced team who are passionate about our roles of assisting and supporting people to reach their goals
Whatever your story, whatever circumstances, at Enhance Wellbeing Counselling we hope that you find support, recovery and healing you need here.  We believe in people and the power of positive change that it is possible; and when we find the keys that are individual to each unique set of circumstances we can bring that change about.  Utilising evidence based therapies such as EMDR, CBT and psychoanalysis, we bring expert, high quality psychological therapy to you, in face to face or Telehealth. We are a highly qualified and experienced team who are passionate about our roles of assisting and supporting people to reach their goals
(03) 4240 6428 View (03) 4240 6428
Photo of Anna Maxwell, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Anna Maxwell
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Geelong, VIC 3220
Anna is a registered psychologist and is passionate about helping adults and older adolescents to improve their happiness and wellbeing. Anna has experience working with parents and has facilitated early parenting and attachment-based group programs including Circle of Security and Keeping Your Child in Mind. Anna is committed to building strong, respectful, and collaborative working relationships with her clients. She believes in taking a gentle, person-centred approach so that each client feels heard and understood. Anna supports clients in developing their own insight, self-understanding, and self-compassion.
Anna is a registered psychologist and is passionate about helping adults and older adolescents to improve their happiness and wellbeing. Anna has experience working with parents and has facilitated early parenting and attachment-based group programs including Circle of Security and Keeping Your Child in Mind. Anna is committed to building strong, respectful, and collaborative working relationships with her clients. She believes in taking a gentle, person-centred approach so that each client feels heard and understood. Anna supports clients in developing their own insight, self-understanding, and self-compassion.
(03) 9000 0866 View (03) 9000 0866

Online Therapists

Photo of Rishi Sharma - Indus Therapy Consulting, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rishi Sharma - Indus Therapy Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Balwyn, VIC 3103
AASW accredited Social Worker with experience working in foster care, parent support, substance use, adoption, family violence, forensics and mental health.
Finding yourself doing head miles, feeling hopeless or overwhelmed by recent changes in life? Ever feel that you are carrying the burden of the world on your shoulders since COVID came around? Do you no longer find joy in the things you used to enjoy or are unable to remember what life used to be like before COVID came around?Have you tried therapy before and didn’t feel understood? If you are a person of colour and struggle to find therapists who understand your culture, I hope to provide you with better service. Give us a call or leave an enquiry on the website and we will walk you through your journey to a better life.
AASW accredited Social Worker with experience working in foster care, parent support, substance use, adoption, family violence, forensics and mental health.
Finding yourself doing head miles, feeling hopeless or overwhelmed by recent changes in life? Ever feel that you are carrying the burden of the world on your shoulders since COVID came around? Do you no longer find joy in the things you used to enjoy or are unable to remember what life used to be like before COVID came around?Have you tried therapy before and didn’t feel understood? If you are a person of colour and struggle to find therapists who understand your culture, I hope to provide you with better service. Give us a call or leave an enquiry on the website and we will walk you through your journey to a better life.
(03) 4159 4409 View (03) 4159 4409
Photo of Renee Hughes, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Renee Hughes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Seddon, VIC 3011
I have significant experience working in both health & mental health settings, premature infants, IVF, adoption, parent infant mental health programs, child protection, family violence & within the family court as a court expert.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Parent Infant Mental Health clinician and Family Report Writer with over 20 years experience working in the field. I work mostly with adults experiencing mental health issues and provide a safe space for people to work through their difficulties. My goal is to help people to understand themselves on a deeper level and have better functioning relationships and a happier life! I also write private reports for the Family Court (62G & Child Impact Reports) and can support and coach individuals going through this process.
I have significant experience working in both health & mental health settings, premature infants, IVF, adoption, parent infant mental health programs, child protection, family violence & within the family court as a court expert.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Parent Infant Mental Health clinician and Family Report Writer with over 20 years experience working in the field. I work mostly with adults experiencing mental health issues and provide a safe space for people to work through their difficulties. My goal is to help people to understand themselves on a deeper level and have better functioning relationships and a happier life! I also write private reports for the Family Court (62G & Child Impact Reports) and can support and coach individuals going through this process.
(03) 8595 4462 View (03) 8595 4462
Photo of Sandra Ifrah, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Sandra Ifrah
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Caulfield North, VIC 3161
Sandra Ifrah is a registered psychologist with extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults who are experiencing issues related to mental health. She is an experienced Psychologist with a family-focused approach where the client is provided with a safe, supportive and nurturing environment during sessions, and the family unit is very much a part of the journey to change.
Sandra Ifrah is a registered psychologist with extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults who are experiencing issues related to mental health. She is an experienced Psychologist with a family-focused approach where the client is provided with a safe, supportive and nurturing environment during sessions, and the family unit is very much a part of the journey to change.
(03) 6144 6011 View (03) 6144 6011
Photo of Simon Westcott, MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Simon Westcott
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Carlton North, VIC 3054
I seek to support clients who are looking to make positive change in their lives. They may want to move away from difficult emotional states like depression, anxiety, anger and loneliness or address repetitive and destructive behaviours such as substance abuse or sexual compulsion that are holding them back. They may also be overwhelmed by big transitions like bereavement, divorce or relocation and feel stuck, or unvalued, in their professional journey. I see clients of all ages and from many walks of life, with a particular focus on men's mental health, working professionals, and members of the LGBTQ community.
I seek to support clients who are looking to make positive change in their lives. They may want to move away from difficult emotional states like depression, anxiety, anger and loneliness or address repetitive and destructive behaviours such as substance abuse or sexual compulsion that are holding them back. They may also be overwhelmed by big transitions like bereavement, divorce or relocation and feel stuck, or unvalued, in their professional journey. I see clients of all ages and from many walks of life, with a particular focus on men's mental health, working professionals, and members of the LGBTQ community.
0431 659 979 View 0431 659 979
Photo of Suzanne Sharp, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Suzanne Sharp
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Saint Kilda, VIC 3182
Life doesn't come with a user's guide and all of us struggle at times. In looking for a therapist you have taken a step toward finding greater ease in your life. Psychotherapy is about building a greater awareness and understanding of your patterns in life. This allows you to find a sense of spaciousness where, rather than act reactively, you can make more conscious choices and cultivate a stronger sense of self. If you find yourself often feeling anxious or depressed, held back by past traumas, not living the life you want, or lacking direction, then psychotherapy can offer you the change you need.
Life doesn't come with a user's guide and all of us struggle at times. In looking for a therapist you have taken a step toward finding greater ease in your life. Psychotherapy is about building a greater awareness and understanding of your patterns in life. This allows you to find a sense of spaciousness where, rather than act reactively, you can make more conscious choices and cultivate a stronger sense of self. If you find yourself often feeling anxious or depressed, held back by past traumas, not living the life you want, or lacking direction, then psychotherapy can offer you the change you need.
(03) 7003 2693 View (03) 7003 2693
Photo of Ajani Wadood, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Ajani Wadood
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Wollert, VIC 3750
Ajani Wadood has extensive experience providing evidence-based therapeutic interventions to clients across the lifespan, individuals starting from 3 years and over, and couples. Ajani is a qualified psychotherapist, coach, clinical counsellor, relationship therapist, educator, speech therapist, and a behaviour therapist. Ajani has worked in a range of roles including a registered teacher, NDIS Key worker, Early intervention specialist and Autism Specialist. in addition Ajani have worked with children, adolescents and teenagers and there families.
Ajani Wadood has extensive experience providing evidence-based therapeutic interventions to clients across the lifespan, individuals starting from 3 years and over, and couples. Ajani is a qualified psychotherapist, coach, clinical counsellor, relationship therapist, educator, speech therapist, and a behaviour therapist. Ajani has worked in a range of roles including a registered teacher, NDIS Key worker, Early intervention specialist and Autism Specialist. in addition Ajani have worked with children, adolescents and teenagers and there families.
(03) 7302 2874 View (03) 7302 2874
Photo of Nicole Levy, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Levy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Malvern East, VIC 3145
Have you thought about seeking help for a long time? Struggling to make sense of what is happening in your life and how to manage your feelings and relationships? Do you want to improve your relationship and improve communication and intimacy? Are you finding that anxiety is running your life and, or feeling low in mood and unmotivated? Seeking help can the first step to moving forward and improving aspects of your life that concern you.
Have you thought about seeking help for a long time? Struggling to make sense of what is happening in your life and how to manage your feelings and relationships? Do you want to improve your relationship and improve communication and intimacy? Are you finding that anxiety is running your life and, or feeling low in mood and unmotivated? Seeking help can the first step to moving forward and improving aspects of your life that concern you.
(02) 4810 0688 View (02) 4810 0688
Photo of Tori Orit Brand - Brand Counselling Services, MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Brand Counselling Services
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Bentleigh East, VIC 3165
I believe that loving one’s self is a prerequisite to loving others: our relationships with others are all mirrors of our relationship with ourselves. As a counsellor with over 15 years of experience, I understand that life can be challenging sometimes, and we can lose our way in it. I treat my clients with warmth, empathy, and unconditional support, giving them the space and confidence that they need to walk through the pains of their growth and once again find their love for their true self.
I believe that loving one’s self is a prerequisite to loving others: our relationships with others are all mirrors of our relationship with ourselves. As a counsellor with over 15 years of experience, I understand that life can be challenging sometimes, and we can lose our way in it. I treat my clients with warmth, empathy, and unconditional support, giving them the space and confidence that they need to walk through the pains of their growth and once again find their love for their true self.
(03) 7500 5808 View (03) 7500 5808
Photo of Kate Reimer - Doongalla Counselling, PACFA, Counsellor
Doongalla Counselling
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Croydon South, VIC 3136
With a particular interest in trauma recovery, Kate prioritises a safe, confidential and empathic therapy space. It is in such an environment that a collaborative therapeutic relationship may be developed to facilitate client goals. These goals may consist of developing emotional regulation, recovering from childhood trauma, establishing communication skills, enhancing self-care practices or any other number of goals. Individuals may engage with short-term counselling or longer therapeutic work to address issues such as depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, self-esteem issues, relationship conflict and personal development.
With a particular interest in trauma recovery, Kate prioritises a safe, confidential and empathic therapy space. It is in such an environment that a collaborative therapeutic relationship may be developed to facilitate client goals. These goals may consist of developing emotional regulation, recovering from childhood trauma, establishing communication skills, enhancing self-care practices or any other number of goals. Individuals may engage with short-term counselling or longer therapeutic work to address issues such as depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, self-esteem issues, relationship conflict and personal development.
(03) 8777 0432 View (03) 8777 0432
Photo of Gorica Boskovski - Mindspace Psychology, PsychD, PsyBA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Mindspace Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Beaconsfield, VIC 3807
At Mindspace Psychology we provide a range of therapies and assessments depending on your individual needs for children, adolescents, couples and adults. These sessions are usually 50mins in length. At your first appointment, a thorough assessment is conducted with your treating Psychologist, to allow the development of the best treatment plan. Treatment options will be discussed during the initial appointment and these will form the basis for future sessions. Our Psychologists are able to provide therapy to clients experiencing a number of difficulties using a warm and empathetic approach to help them reach their full potential.
At Mindspace Psychology we provide a range of therapies and assessments depending on your individual needs for children, adolescents, couples and adults. These sessions are usually 50mins in length. At your first appointment, a thorough assessment is conducted with your treating Psychologist, to allow the development of the best treatment plan. Treatment options will be discussed during the initial appointment and these will form the basis for future sessions. Our Psychologists are able to provide therapy to clients experiencing a number of difficulties using a warm and empathetic approach to help them reach their full potential.
(03) 9788 6802 View (03) 9788 6802
Photo of Emma Moody - Emma Moody Counselling, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emma Moody Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Diggers Rest, VIC 3427  (Online Only)
Emma is an Accredited Mental Health Social worker with over 12 years experience working with people with mental health issues. Emma has a Bachelor's Degrees in Social Work as well as additional qualifications that enable her to specialise in counselling and mental health. Emma's current roles include senior Fertility counsellor at a specialised fertility clinic along side managing her own private practice. Prior to this she worked as a team leader in adult and family mental health.
Emma is an Accredited Mental Health Social worker with over 12 years experience working with people with mental health issues. Emma has a Bachelor's Degrees in Social Work as well as additional qualifications that enable her to specialise in counselling and mental health. Emma's current roles include senior Fertility counsellor at a specialised fertility clinic along side managing her own private practice. Prior to this she worked as a team leader in adult and family mental health.
(03) 4420 9609 View (03) 4420 9609
Photo of Rebecca Datson, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Rebecca Datson
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Malvern East, VIC 3145
I am a Clinical Psychologist and Psychotherapist who has worked for 10+ years across various settings. I have a warm, engaging and down-to-earth approach and prioritise a safe and inclusive space. I value the therapeutic relationship to provide a trusted and reflective space for individuals to adjust to life challenges, to become comfortable with who they are and to support the development of a rich and meaningful life. This involves not just ‘talk therapy’, but treating the whole person including the mind-body connection and exploring how wider context impacts them.
I am a Clinical Psychologist and Psychotherapist who has worked for 10+ years across various settings. I have a warm, engaging and down-to-earth approach and prioritise a safe and inclusive space. I value the therapeutic relationship to provide a trusted and reflective space for individuals to adjust to life challenges, to become comfortable with who they are and to support the development of a rich and meaningful life. This involves not just ‘talk therapy’, but treating the whole person including the mind-body connection and exploring how wider context impacts them.
(03) 7003 2044 View (03) 7003 2044
Photo of Cheyne R Bull, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Cheyne R Bull
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlton, VIC 3053
I am a registered Psychologist who is passionate about creating safe and transformative therapeutic spaces where people will feel deeply heard and respected, and where together, we will work to facilitate healing, growth and purpose, always based on your individual needs, barriers, aspirations and experiences. My work is grounded in anti-oppressive principles, recognising that individual wellbeing is shaped by the society we live in, our own personal circumstances, and the intersecting identities with which we walk through the world.
I am a registered Psychologist who is passionate about creating safe and transformative therapeutic spaces where people will feel deeply heard and respected, and where together, we will work to facilitate healing, growth and purpose, always based on your individual needs, barriers, aspirations and experiences. My work is grounded in anti-oppressive principles, recognising that individual wellbeing is shaped by the society we live in, our own personal circumstances, and the intersecting identities with which we walk through the world.
(03) 9118 9090 View (03) 9118 9090
Photo of Melissa Hardy, MA, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Hardy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AASW
Verified Verified
Montrose, VIC 3765
Melissa Hardy is the Director of Wellbeing Campus (wellbeingcampus.com.au) and is dedicated to providing person-centred therapy to clients experiencing mental health concerns such as substance use problems (including alcohol), Anxiety or Depression. She utilises active listening skills and non-judgemental empathy to build strong therapeutic relationships with her clients. Melissa offers one-on-one therapy sessions to those seeking guidance in overcoming life's challenges. She collaborates with her clients to establish personalised goals and develops strategies to help them overcome any obstacles they may encounter along the way.
Melissa Hardy is the Director of Wellbeing Campus (wellbeingcampus.com.au) and is dedicated to providing person-centred therapy to clients experiencing mental health concerns such as substance use problems (including alcohol), Anxiety or Depression. She utilises active listening skills and non-judgemental empathy to build strong therapeutic relationships with her clients. Melissa offers one-on-one therapy sessions to those seeking guidance in overcoming life's challenges. She collaborates with her clients to establish personalised goals and develops strategies to help them overcome any obstacles they may encounter along the way.
(03) 8203 5437 View (03) 8203 5437
Photo of Antonina Quinlan @ Child Play Therapy, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Antonina Quinlan @ Child Play Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Caulfield, VIC 3162
Being a passionate advocate for non-directive Child-Centred Play Therapy, an approach which is backed by neuroscience and is strictly evidence based, I specialise in working therapeutically with families of children of 2-10 years old to support their child towards their full potential. I recognise the importance of facilitating parents with their involvement in the child's therapy by helping them to become therapeutic agents for their children. I have a special interest integrating this in therapy with children on the Autism Spectrum and with other developmental issues.
Being a passionate advocate for non-directive Child-Centred Play Therapy, an approach which is backed by neuroscience and is strictly evidence based, I specialise in working therapeutically with families of children of 2-10 years old to support their child towards their full potential. I recognise the importance of facilitating parents with their involvement in the child's therapy by helping them to become therapeutic agents for their children. I have a special interest integrating this in therapy with children on the Autism Spectrum and with other developmental issues.
0498 177 243 View 0498 177 243
Photo of Catherine Anne Rumball, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Catherine Anne Rumball
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
Catherine offers counselling for any person experiencing challenges in their life. Her goal is for you to feel understood, appreciated and respected for who you are, for what has happened and what is happening in your life. She ise dedicated to helping people to overcome and learn to live well with a wide range of mental health issues. Catherine’s diverse experience includes providing intervention for trauma, depression, anxiety and major mental health disorders as well as providing risk assessments. Catherine has also been involved in providing urgent psychological services, clinical counselling and critical incident defusing.
Catherine offers counselling for any person experiencing challenges in their life. Her goal is for you to feel understood, appreciated and respected for who you are, for what has happened and what is happening in your life. She ise dedicated to helping people to overcome and learn to live well with a wide range of mental health issues. Catherine’s diverse experience includes providing intervention for trauma, depression, anxiety and major mental health disorders as well as providing risk assessments. Catherine has also been involved in providing urgent psychological services, clinical counselling and critical incident defusing.
(03) 7003 2593 View (03) 7003 2593
Photo of Jeremy Neumann - Humans Being Counselling, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Humans Being Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Malvern, VIC 3144
We are much more than your regular psychology clinic. We are a boutique clinic with a team of clinical psychologists and Mental Health Social Workers. We strive to create a calming therapeutic environment, that begins as soon as you walk in the door. ​ We provide evidence-based sensory stimulus such as lush greenery, soft furnishings, calm music and warm herbal tea to aid calm but also to promote self compassion. ​. A trauma sensitive, welcoming space, that treats every client with acceptance, respect and compassion. A physical and emotional space to feel genuinely heard, understood & supported.
We are much more than your regular psychology clinic. We are a boutique clinic with a team of clinical psychologists and Mental Health Social Workers. We strive to create a calming therapeutic environment, that begins as soon as you walk in the door. ​ We provide evidence-based sensory stimulus such as lush greenery, soft furnishings, calm music and warm herbal tea to aid calm but also to promote self compassion. ​. A trauma sensitive, welcoming space, that treats every client with acceptance, respect and compassion. A physical and emotional space to feel genuinely heard, understood & supported.
(03) 7003 2329 View (03) 7003 2329

See more therapy options for Geelong

Adoption Counsellors

Does my adopted child need therapy?

Not every adopted child needs therapy. However, many can benefit from seeing an adoption-informed therapist, especially if they were victims of abuse or neglect, appear withdrawn or disconnected, have behavioural or developmental issues (which may or may not be related to their adoption), are struggling with feelings of grief or loss surrounding their birth parents, or find it difficult to establish an identity, a challenge that often becomes most apparent during adolescence.

When should adoptive parents seek therapy?

Prospective parents can benefit from therapy even before an adoption—for example, to voice worries and fears; to reconcile infertility struggles, if relevant; or simply to prepare themselves for parenthood. After the adoption, parents who are struggling to bond with their child; are unsure how to talk about adoption or related issues, such as race; or whose child is dealing with developmental, behavioural, or psychiatric concerns can address these and other issues with the help of an adoption-competent therapist.

Is family therapy appropriate for adoptive families?

Family therapy can be invaluable for strengthening the bond between adoptive parents and children, helping the latter feel more secure in their place in the family. Family therapy can also help adoptive families navigate complex communication issues—for example, parents who feel uncomfortable discussing race with their child, who in turn feels invalidated by their silence, or a child who has questions about his birth parents but avoids asking them out of fear of hurting his adoptive parents’ feelings.

What therapy is not appropriate for adoption issues?

A discredited therapy known as “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy” or “rebirthing therapy”) should not be used to treat adopted and foster children, though it was largely designed for this population. Attachment therapy involves restraining, coercing, and punishing the child in order for them to “release” negative emotions and attach to their new caregivers—techniques that are abusive and dangerous and have even proven fatal in some cases.