Domestic Abuse Counselling in Preston, VIC

Christina Pitter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AASW
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072
Christina has 20 years experience as a mental health social worker and psychotherapist. She works with people whose lives have been affected by childhood & adult trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family violence, and the impact of identity, family, ethnic and cultural issues on mental health. She has a special interest in supporting clients with chronic and physical health and disability issues. Christina hopes that through therapy, people can develop a greater awareness of their emotions, thoughts, strengths and goals and an overall improvement in their wellbeing and relationships with others.
Christina has 20 years experience as a mental health social worker and psychotherapist. She works with people whose lives have been affected by childhood & adult trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family violence, and the impact of identity, family, ethnic and cultural issues on mental health. She has a special interest in supporting clients with chronic and physical health and disability issues. Christina hopes that through therapy, people can develop a greater awareness of their emotions, thoughts, strengths and goals and an overall improvement in their wellbeing and relationships with others.
(02) 4504 0245 View (02) 4504 0245
Photo of Ash Ruskin, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ash Ruskin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Preston, VIC 3072
With a background in individual and group counselling, family therapy, working with victim/survivors and perpetrators of family violence, suicide crisis support, and disability work, Ash is passionate about empowering individual to work towards their goals and embrace their authentic selves.
Ash (she/her) is an accredited social worker and therapist who works with young people and adults from diverse backgrounds and identities, practicing on unceded Wurundjeri country. She specialises in supporting people impacted by various life challenges and often works with people who have experienced anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, family violence, alcohol and drug issues, low self-esteem, suicidal ideation, relationship breakdowns and more. She also supports people navigating life transitions and people within the queer community.
With a background in individual and group counselling, family therapy, working with victim/survivors and perpetrators of family violence, suicide crisis support, and disability work, Ash is passionate about empowering individual to work towards their goals and embrace their authentic selves.
Ash (she/her) is an accredited social worker and therapist who works with young people and adults from diverse backgrounds and identities, practicing on unceded Wurundjeri country. She specialises in supporting people impacted by various life challenges and often works with people who have experienced anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, family violence, alcohol and drug issues, low self-esteem, suicidal ideation, relationship breakdowns and more. She also supports people navigating life transitions and people within the queer community.
(03) 8338 1602 View (03) 8338 1602
Photo of Rachel Lee - Plum Ripples
Plum Ripples
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072  (Online Only)
A social worker and coach with ten years of experience working in the fields of family violence, homelessness and mental health, I am currently an Advanced-level student in Somatic Experiencing.
The supremacy dream has left us frozen, fragmented and disconnected from ourselves, others, and our ecosystem. Working through our body allows us to touch our vital force of life and come closer to our true desires and dreams. When we feel a sense of safety and belonging within ourselves, we enter into deeper intimacy with our wider webs of love - to our kin, the earth and the cosmos. In a world where the dominant narrative is to hustle more to accomplish your dreams, as your somatic coach, I am here to help your nervous system work less hard so you can relax into your Being and trust your inner inklings for what’s next.
A social worker and coach with ten years of experience working in the fields of family violence, homelessness and mental health, I am currently an Advanced-level student in Somatic Experiencing.
The supremacy dream has left us frozen, fragmented and disconnected from ourselves, others, and our ecosystem. Working through our body allows us to touch our vital force of life and come closer to our true desires and dreams. When we feel a sense of safety and belonging within ourselves, we enter into deeper intimacy with our wider webs of love - to our kin, the earth and the cosmos. In a world where the dominant narrative is to hustle more to accomplish your dreams, as your somatic coach, I am here to help your nervous system work less hard so you can relax into your Being and trust your inner inklings for what’s next.
(03) 8338 4601 View (03) 8338 4601
Photo of Samantha Duroska, MSc, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Samantha Duroska
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072
Currently taking on new clients. / Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or struggling with the aftermath of trauma? You’re not alone, and I’m here to help. As a Clinical Psychologist, I guide clients through anxiety and trauma, including experiences like accidents, relational trauma, sexual assault, and childhood abuse. My focus also includes phobias, OCD, panic disorders, and anxiety. I am dedicated to working with adults who want to navigate challenging emotions, situations, or memories. Together, we can work towards finding a sense of self, inner peace, and greater life satisfaction.
Currently taking on new clients. / Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or struggling with the aftermath of trauma? You’re not alone, and I’m here to help. As a Clinical Psychologist, I guide clients through anxiety and trauma, including experiences like accidents, relational trauma, sexual assault, and childhood abuse. My focus also includes phobias, OCD, panic disorders, and anxiety. I am dedicated to working with adults who want to navigate challenging emotions, situations, or memories. Together, we can work towards finding a sense of self, inner peace, and greater life satisfaction.
(03) 8338 1208 View (03) 8338 1208
Photo of Chris Carter, MPsych, MAPS, Psychologist
Chris Carter
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072
I am a psychologist with experience working with adults and adolescents in clinical mental health, depression, anxiety, trauma, forensics and addiction. I work with adults with depression, anxiety, personality difficulties and substance use, as well as family and relationship issues, gender and sexuality, anger, life direction, trauma, abuse, self harm and suicidal thoughts. I listen without judgment and provide psychotherapy that is tailored to each individual, the work is confidential.
I am a psychologist with experience working with adults and adolescents in clinical mental health, depression, anxiety, trauma, forensics and addiction. I work with adults with depression, anxiety, personality difficulties and substance use, as well as family and relationship issues, gender and sexuality, anger, life direction, trauma, abuse, self harm and suicidal thoughts. I listen without judgment and provide psychotherapy that is tailored to each individual, the work is confidential.
(03) 9111 5364 View (03) 9111 5364
Photo of Ruku Srivastava, Psychologist
Ruku Srivastava
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072
Ruku’s areas of interest: Anxiety and anxiety-related issues, Trauma and PTSD, Intergenerational trauma, Cultural issues, Depression, ADHD support, Stress management and burnout, Self-Esteem/Self-confidence and Family/ Domestic Violence.
Ruku is passionate about working with clients from a diverse range of cultural, social and economic backgrounds. Her practice is empathetic, culturally responsive and trauma informed. She has extensive experience in community and welfare settings and is able to provide psychological assessment and treatment for a wide range of issues. Ruku uses Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution-focused therapy and Mindfulness-based interventions to assist individuals to achieve their goals and increase overall wellbeing. Ruku can provide therapy in English and Hindi.
Ruku’s areas of interest: Anxiety and anxiety-related issues, Trauma and PTSD, Intergenerational trauma, Cultural issues, Depression, ADHD support, Stress management and burnout, Self-Esteem/Self-confidence and Family/ Domestic Violence.
Ruku is passionate about working with clients from a diverse range of cultural, social and economic backgrounds. Her practice is empathetic, culturally responsive and trauma informed. She has extensive experience in community and welfare settings and is able to provide psychological assessment and treatment for a wide range of issues. Ruku uses Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution-focused therapy and Mindfulness-based interventions to assist individuals to achieve their goals and increase overall wellbeing. Ruku can provide therapy in English and Hindi.
(03) 8771 4030 View (03) 8771 4030
D & M Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072
Stan has maturity and a friendly disposition, and his client-centred approach enables him to engage and empathise with clients of varied backgrounds to help build trust and openness in the therapeutic relationship with clients. He has used an eclectic approach comprising of a variety of therapeutic methods
Stan has maturity and a friendly disposition, and his client-centred approach enables him to engage and empathise with clients of varied backgrounds to help build trust and openness in the therapeutic relationship with clients. He has used an eclectic approach comprising of a variety of therapeutic methods
0459 620 148 View 0459 620 148
Photo of Sally Tyrrell - Creative Healing counselling & art therapy, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Creative Healing counselling & art therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Preston, VIC 3072
Looking for something a little different to traditional talking therapy? Often it can be hard to find the words to express how we are feeling or what is going on in your life that is getting you down. As a Mental Health Social Worker I use my traditional counselling skills and incorporate my Sensorimotor Art Therapy skills to add deeper meaning and reflection to make sense of the world through art, creativity and play. If you would like to make an appointment visit my website and click on the Book Now button
Looking for something a little different to traditional talking therapy? Often it can be hard to find the words to express how we are feeling or what is going on in your life that is getting you down. As a Mental Health Social Worker I use my traditional counselling skills and incorporate my Sensorimotor Art Therapy skills to add deeper meaning and reflection to make sense of the world through art, creativity and play. If you would like to make an appointment visit my website and click on the Book Now button
(03) 9068 5833 View (03) 9068 5833
Photo of Cassandra Allen - Women Assist Counselling, PACFA, Counsellor
Women Assist Counselling
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072  (Online Only)
Women Assist is a professional counselling and psychotherapy service that supports all people who identify as women with their mental health and well-being. We are a trauma-informed and culturally sensitive service, offering counselling and psychotherapy via telephone or online video platform.
Women Assist is a professional counselling and psychotherapy service that supports all people who identify as women with their mental health and well-being. We are a trauma-informed and culturally sensitive service, offering counselling and psychotherapy via telephone or online video platform.
(03) 9344 1672 View (03) 9344 1672
Photo of Josephine Borg, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Josephine Borg
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072
As a person centred humanistic psychologist who aims to meet where my clients are at, I will work towards hearing your story and therapeutic goals. I will also use a modality that will best help you heal. I have experience working with people who have been trauma, challenges with work and life direction, financial challenges, grief and loss I am experienced at providing psychology services with NDIS funding and have helped clients reach their therapeutic goals as well as write up NDIS reports to assist with funding. I look forward to working with you to improve your life situation, heal and be the best version of yourself.
As a person centred humanistic psychologist who aims to meet where my clients are at, I will work towards hearing your story and therapeutic goals. I will also use a modality that will best help you heal. I have experience working with people who have been trauma, challenges with work and life direction, financial challenges, grief and loss I am experienced at providing psychology services with NDIS funding and have helped clients reach their therapeutic goals as well as write up NDIS reports to assist with funding. I look forward to working with you to improve your life situation, heal and be the best version of yourself.
(03) 8104 9494 View (03) 8104 9494
Photo of Josh Sasai - Josh Sasai - Wisdom Psychotherapy, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Josh Sasai - Wisdom Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072
Hi, my name is Josh. I specialise in working with clients with trauma (C/PTSD), anxiety, depression and chronic conditions by facilitating Body-Mind Processing practices. I use Buddhist Psychotherapy as my therapeutic framework. Buddhist Psychotherapy is a non-religious, brain science-focused and compassion-oriented framework, which can combine evidence-based counselling methods with body-mind integrative practices for a restored sense of wellbeing. My practice focuses on the body’s innate wisdom to work out solutions to the presented issues, as well as working with emotions as the vehicles to connect body-and-mind.
Hi, my name is Josh. I specialise in working with clients with trauma (C/PTSD), anxiety, depression and chronic conditions by facilitating Body-Mind Processing practices. I use Buddhist Psychotherapy as my therapeutic framework. Buddhist Psychotherapy is a non-religious, brain science-focused and compassion-oriented framework, which can combine evidence-based counselling methods with body-mind integrative practices for a restored sense of wellbeing. My practice focuses on the body’s innate wisdom to work out solutions to the presented issues, as well as working with emotions as the vehicles to connect body-and-mind.
0490 965 822 View 0490 965 822
Photo of Dina Aouad - Yes To New Beginnings Counselling, PACFA, Counsellor
Dina Aouad - Yes To New Beginnings Counselling
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Preston, VIC 3072
Welcome to "Yes To New Beginnings Counselling" profile, where the transformative power of counselling is beautifully mirrored in the life cycle of a butterfly. Just as the butterfly undergoes a remarkable metamorphosis, counselling has the potential to transform individuals by empowering them to embrace new beginnings. With a person-centred approach and expertise in Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), Existential Therapy, and Narrative Therapy, I assist individuals in embracing new beginnings.
Welcome to "Yes To New Beginnings Counselling" profile, where the transformative power of counselling is beautifully mirrored in the life cycle of a butterfly. Just as the butterfly undergoes a remarkable metamorphosis, counselling has the potential to transform individuals by empowering them to embrace new beginnings. With a person-centred approach and expertise in Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), Existential Therapy, and Narrative Therapy, I assist individuals in embracing new beginnings.
(03) 8400 0382 View (03) 8400 0382
Photo of Giorgia Deslandes - Meld Therapy, MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Meld Therapy
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072
Giorgia is a Melbourne-based holistic counsellor. Giorgia is registered with the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) and practices both counselling and psychotherapy. Giorgia is certified in Somatic Therapy for Complex Trauma and draws upon her qualifications in Counselling Psychology (MA) to ensure an integrative, person-centred and strengths based approach to therapy.
Giorgia is a Melbourne-based holistic counsellor. Giorgia is registered with the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) and practices both counselling and psychotherapy. Giorgia is certified in Somatic Therapy for Complex Trauma and draws upon her qualifications in Counselling Psychology (MA) to ensure an integrative, person-centred and strengths based approach to therapy.
(03) 7003 2395 View (03) 7003 2395
Photo of Nancy Carbone - Counselling Service Melbourne, MSc, PACFA, Counsellor
Counselling Service Melbourne
Counsellor, MSc, PACFA
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072
We believe that change comes from within yourself and thats why we help to overcome negative beliefs and deal with emotions that can keep us stuck in unwanted behaviour. To build a stronger foundation for yourself and develop effective coping behaviour call 0449 861 147
We believe that change comes from within yourself and thats why we help to overcome negative beliefs and deal with emotions that can keep us stuck in unwanted behaviour. To build a stronger foundation for yourself and develop effective coping behaviour call 0449 861 147
(03) 9069 9596 View (03) 9069 9596
Photo of Cindy Bridge, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cindy Bridge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072
Cindy is a compassionate Mental Health Social Worker and counsellor with over 20 years experience working in community and public hospital settings, including 11 years at the Royal Women's Hospital Pregnancy Advisory Service. She specialises in working with unplanned pregnancy, pregnancy loss, adjustment to parenting, interpersonal trauma, anxiety and depression. Her approach is strengths-based and person centred, meaning that in working together, the focus is on drawing out your unique strengths and abilities to foster positive change and wellbeing so you can feel more confident to deal with the challenges you face.
Cindy is a compassionate Mental Health Social Worker and counsellor with over 20 years experience working in community and public hospital settings, including 11 years at the Royal Women's Hospital Pregnancy Advisory Service. She specialises in working with unplanned pregnancy, pregnancy loss, adjustment to parenting, interpersonal trauma, anxiety and depression. Her approach is strengths-based and person centred, meaning that in working together, the focus is on drawing out your unique strengths and abilities to foster positive change and wellbeing so you can feel more confident to deal with the challenges you face.
(03) 8338 4738 View (03) 8338 4738
Photo of Leyna Fennell, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Leyna Fennell
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072
Relationship Therapist and Clinical Supervisor, working with individuals, couples & families. I will work with you to strengthen your relationships with self and others, through careful exploration of your emotional landscape, attending to any emotional blocks holding you back from relating well. Attention given to enhancing communication and supporting expressions of more vulnerable emotions and experiences. Special interest working with challenges related to love, desire, sex and intimacy. My interest and focus surrounds exploring issues through the lens of relationship- whether that be intimate or other.
Relationship Therapist and Clinical Supervisor, working with individuals, couples & families. I will work with you to strengthen your relationships with self and others, through careful exploration of your emotional landscape, attending to any emotional blocks holding you back from relating well. Attention given to enhancing communication and supporting expressions of more vulnerable emotions and experiences. Special interest working with challenges related to love, desire, sex and intimacy. My interest and focus surrounds exploring issues through the lens of relationship- whether that be intimate or other.
(03) 8592 9269 View (03) 8592 9269
Photo of Allison Browning, MA, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Browning
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072
I'm an accredited Medicare registered therapist (AMHSW) with rebates available. I work with trauma, anxiety, mental health issues, grief and loss. I am highly experienced in the area of complex trauma and have a deep understanding of the ways this impacts everyday life and connections. Around trauma, I work both somatically and with talk therapy. I offer a safe and accepting space for members of the LGBTIQ+ community, providing support and understanding around issues such as coming out, gender identity, dysphoria and exploring sexual orientation. I use evidence-based therapeutic approaches to work in a person-centred holistic way.
I'm an accredited Medicare registered therapist (AMHSW) with rebates available. I work with trauma, anxiety, mental health issues, grief and loss. I am highly experienced in the area of complex trauma and have a deep understanding of the ways this impacts everyday life and connections. Around trauma, I work both somatically and with talk therapy. I offer a safe and accepting space for members of the LGBTIQ+ community, providing support and understanding around issues such as coming out, gender identity, dysphoria and exploring sexual orientation. I use evidence-based therapeutic approaches to work in a person-centred holistic way.
(02) 4504 0207 View (02) 4504 0207
Photo of Erica Patrick - Melbourne Mindbody Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Melbourne Mindbody Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072
Learn to let go of the past through Innovative psychology for the mind and body. Using an integrative approach of Acceptance Commitment Therapy, (ACT) Inner child work, and Eye Movement Desensitisation (EMDR) to resolve the past in the present and be free in the future. Erica is also a naturopath and hypnotherapist, working to resolve IBS and physical ailments which are triggered through stress, and nutritional requirements. Naturopathic appointments are separate to psychology appointments. MMBP is a multi-modality clinic that offers additional services for a holistic approach to overall health, melbournemindbodypsychology.com.
Learn to let go of the past through Innovative psychology for the mind and body. Using an integrative approach of Acceptance Commitment Therapy, (ACT) Inner child work, and Eye Movement Desensitisation (EMDR) to resolve the past in the present and be free in the future. Erica is also a naturopath and hypnotherapist, working to resolve IBS and physical ailments which are triggered through stress, and nutritional requirements. Naturopathic appointments are separate to psychology appointments. MMBP is a multi-modality clinic that offers additional services for a holistic approach to overall health, melbournemindbodypsychology.com.
(03) 7003 2894 View (03) 7003 2894
Photo of Kim Thomas, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Kim Thomas
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Preston, VIC 3072
Individually tailored sessions to help each person improve their mental health. Flexible, supportive help to grow and change for the better. Kim has worked within the NDIS framework with complex clients and utilises a variety of techniques to give you strategies and insight towards improved mental health. With an interest in trauma, Kim plans to add EMDR training to her skillset this year. As well as rooms and online options, Kim will walk and talk and in some circumstances, travel to clients.
Individually tailored sessions to help each person improve their mental health. Flexible, supportive help to grow and change for the better. Kim has worked within the NDIS framework with complex clients and utilises a variety of techniques to give you strategies and insight towards improved mental health. With an interest in trauma, Kim plans to add EMDR training to her skillset this year. As well as rooms and online options, Kim will walk and talk and in some circumstances, travel to clients.
(03) 8797 2164 View (03) 8797 2164
Photo of Woody Balfour, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Woody Balfour
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072
As a therapist, I understand the need for warmth and acceptance. This is the foundation of a therapeutic relationship where people can show up with aspects of themselves that are problematic and unhelpful without judgement. I can relate to very human uncomfortable and undesirable behaviors, feelings and beliefs about ourselves. Through consistent support, compassion and curiosity, positive change becomes possible.
As a therapist, I understand the need for warmth and acceptance. This is the foundation of a therapeutic relationship where people can show up with aspects of themselves that are problematic and unhelpful without judgement. I can relate to very human uncomfortable and undesirable behaviors, feelings and beliefs about ourselves. Through consistent support, compassion and curiosity, positive change becomes possible.
(03) 7003 2659 View (03) 7003 2659
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See more therapy options for Preston

Domestic Abuse Counsellors

What are the most effective ways to recover from domestic abuse?

Leaving an abusive relationship requires tremendous courage, so survivors in treatment should recognise that they have already completed the most important step. Still, the trauma of physical or emotional abuse can be difficult to process and overcome. Therapy can help survivors process trauma, grief, and difficult emotions, treat relevant mental health symptoms, and create a new framework for boundaries and relationships in the future. For some, support groups can also be an invaluable outlet for healing.

When should an individual seek help for domestic abuse?

Victims of intimate partner violence should seek help immediately. It can take substantial time, planning, energy, and courage to leave an abusive relationship, but starting the process—by seeking therapy, calling the domestic violence hotline, or simply confiding in a loved one—will help them get there. Those who have left abusive relationships but haven’t sought treatment can also greatly benefit from therapy to process and heal from the experience.

What are the consequences of staying in an abusive relationship?

Remaining in an abusive relationship has serious repercussions. In addition to the ongoing threat of physical danger and emotional abuse, research shows that intimate partner violence is associated with a range of mental health disorders including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and substance abuse. Therefore it’s important for individuals in an abusive relationship to seek help as soon as possible.

How can you get domestic abuse treatment for someone else?

It can be very complicated to identify and leave an abusive relationship; barriers include the threat of violence, financial instability, and family pressures. Those concerned about a loved one in an abusive relationship should talk to them about the situation, provide them with resources such as the domestic violence hotline, and introduce the idea of seeing a therapist due to their concern for the person’s safety and well-being.