Feminist Counselling in Saint Kilda East, VIC

Photo of Sonja Skocic - Melbourne Centre for Womens Mental Health, PhD, FAPS, Psychologist
Melbourne Centre for Womens Mental Health
Psychologist, PhD, FAPS
Verified Verified
Saint Kilda East, VIC 3183  (Online Only)
Melbourne Centre for Women’s Mental Health is a proud Australian feminist mental health service that offers a growing number of clinical and educational programs for women and girls of Victoria. Established in 2018, we stand for anti-oppressive practices in mental health care and offer a variety of therapeutic programs and professional programs designed to empower our clients. We also conduct our own research, publish regular articles and promote lived experience voices.
Melbourne Centre for Women’s Mental Health is a proud Australian feminist mental health service that offers a growing number of clinical and educational programs for women and girls of Victoria. Established in 2018, we stand for anti-oppressive practices in mental health care and offer a variety of therapeutic programs and professional programs designed to empower our clients. We also conduct our own research, publish regular articles and promote lived experience voices.
(03) 7003 2092 View (03) 7003 2092
Photo of Dr Christine Deftereos (Therapeutic Consultations), PhD, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr Christine Deftereos (Therapeutic Consultations)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, AMHSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Kilda East, VIC 3183
I am a Lacanian Psychoanalyst, Accredited Metal Health Social Work and Psychotherapist who hold specialized accreditations in working with Complex Trauma, Acute Stress and Post Traumatic Stress Disorders and a range of mental health presentations. I am committed to providing best practice trauma informed care in a confidential, sensitive and validating therapeutic space, with an emphasis on ‘learning to live with our stories.’ My primary ethical commitment is to provide a safe non-judgmental space for ‘bearing witness,’ for truth telling,’ and in sharing your ‘lived experiences’ via free association. I am also an EMDR Practitioner.
I am a Lacanian Psychoanalyst, Accredited Metal Health Social Work and Psychotherapist who hold specialized accreditations in working with Complex Trauma, Acute Stress and Post Traumatic Stress Disorders and a range of mental health presentations. I am committed to providing best practice trauma informed care in a confidential, sensitive and validating therapeutic space, with an emphasis on ‘learning to live with our stories.’ My primary ethical commitment is to provide a safe non-judgmental space for ‘bearing witness,’ for truth telling,’ and in sharing your ‘lived experiences’ via free association. I am also an EMDR Practitioner.
(03) 7003 2924 View (03) 7003 2924
Photo of Ronnie Adamowicz, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Ronnie Adamowicz
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Saint Kilda East, VIC 3183
Are you feeling stuck, like something important is missing from your life, but you can't quite put your finger on it? Do you find it challenging to have your emotional needs met in relationships? Are you trapped in repetitive patterns, struggling to define healthy boundaries? There is a reason behind these struggles, and together, we will uncover what is holding you back, providing you with the clarity and confidence needed to turn things around. I specialize in somatic therapy, an approach that dives deep into the core of unresolved trauma within the body, facilitating rapid healing.
Are you feeling stuck, like something important is missing from your life, but you can't quite put your finger on it? Do you find it challenging to have your emotional needs met in relationships? Are you trapped in repetitive patterns, struggling to define healthy boundaries? There is a reason behind these struggles, and together, we will uncover what is holding you back, providing you with the clarity and confidence needed to turn things around. I specialize in somatic therapy, an approach that dives deep into the core of unresolved trauma within the body, facilitating rapid healing.
(03) 7037 6993 View (03) 7037 6993
Photo of Claudia G, AThR, Psychotherapist
Claudia G
Psychotherapist, AThR
Verified Verified
Saint Kilda East, VIC 3183
Claudia facilitates group, individual and dyadic art therapy sessions with families, children, infants and adults. Claudia focuses on person - centered, strength based, and trauma informed perspectives. She integrates elements from a range of theory into her practice. Her interests include trauma research, neuroscience, holistic, and psychodynamic therapies such as gestalt therapy and Internal Family Systems Therapy. Claudia has most experience working with individuals experiencing trauma/ (symptoms), family violence, eating disorders, cPTSD/PTSD, sexual assault, with children, and Neurodivergent individuals.
Claudia facilitates group, individual and dyadic art therapy sessions with families, children, infants and adults. Claudia focuses on person - centered, strength based, and trauma informed perspectives. She integrates elements from a range of theory into her practice. Her interests include trauma research, neuroscience, holistic, and psychodynamic therapies such as gestalt therapy and Internal Family Systems Therapy. Claudia has most experience working with individuals experiencing trauma/ (symptoms), family violence, eating disorders, cPTSD/PTSD, sexual assault, with children, and Neurodivergent individuals.
(03) 7003 2134 View (03) 7003 2134

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Melissa Desmarchelier, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Melissa Desmarchelier
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melbourne, VIC 3000
I work predominantly with adolescents, young people, and adults, and have a special interest in working with people who are studying or working in creative fields (music, visual arts, dance), people from culturally and linguistically-diverse backgrounds and the LGBTQIA+ community, girls from age 12 and women of all ages. I apply an integrative approach of evidence-based interventions including CBT, ACT, EFT, NT and SFT. I have a special interest in Mindfulness, Music-Assisted Therapy, Animal-Assisted Therapy, Feminist Psychology and working with girls and women. I work with many adults seeking ADHD & Autism Assessment & coaching.
I work predominantly with adolescents, young people, and adults, and have a special interest in working with people who are studying or working in creative fields (music, visual arts, dance), people from culturally and linguistically-diverse backgrounds and the LGBTQIA+ community, girls from age 12 and women of all ages. I apply an integrative approach of evidence-based interventions including CBT, ACT, EFT, NT and SFT. I have a special interest in Mindfulness, Music-Assisted Therapy, Animal-Assisted Therapy, Feminist Psychology and working with girls and women. I work with many adults seeking ADHD & Autism Assessment & coaching.
(07) 2100 4865 View (07) 2100 4865
Photo of Lucy Walton, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Lucy Walton
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000  (Online Only)
I usually work with folks who identify as female, however I am happy to consult with anyone who is comfortable to work within a feminist framework.
Typically, my clients have been to therapy many times before, but don't quite get to the bottom of their problems. They have tried the traditional methods of therapy that promote coping, but feel disheartened when they inevitably fall back into their old habits. Often they appear fine on the outside, but every day is a struggle. There is a big feeling of stuckness, or that 'something isn't right'. It's often hard to say exactly what is wrong. The words 'anxiety' and 'depression' don't seem to properly explain things. There may be a history of bad relationships, or struggling to accept love. Despite all this, they haven't given up.
I usually work with folks who identify as female, however I am happy to consult with anyone who is comfortable to work within a feminist framework.
Typically, my clients have been to therapy many times before, but don't quite get to the bottom of their problems. They have tried the traditional methods of therapy that promote coping, but feel disheartened when they inevitably fall back into their old habits. Often they appear fine on the outside, but every day is a struggle. There is a big feeling of stuckness, or that 'something isn't right'. It's often hard to say exactly what is wrong. The words 'anxiety' and 'depression' don't seem to properly explain things. There may be a history of bad relationships, or struggling to accept love. Despite all this, they haven't given up.
(03) 7037 6990 View (03) 7037 6990
Photo of Tara Megan Scott - Tara - Cathartic Collaborations, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tara - Cathartic Collaborations
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melbourne, VIC 3000
My practice framework encompasses neurodivergent affirming strengths based methods, harm reduction, trauma informed approaches, anti-oppressive practices, feminist theory, and systemic practice.
Immediate availability for NDIS and Private (self funded) referrals. Hello! I'm Tara (they/them) and I provide therapeutic support in person in Nundah, Brisbane or telehealth Australia wide. I am queer, neurodivergent (Autism & ADHD) and non-binary. I am passionate about providing therapeutic support to neurodivergent (particularly Autistic folks & ADHDers) and LGBTQIA+ adolescents and adults.
My practice framework encompasses neurodivergent affirming strengths based methods, harm reduction, trauma informed approaches, anti-oppressive practices, feminist theory, and systemic practice.
Immediate availability for NDIS and Private (self funded) referrals. Hello! I'm Tara (they/them) and I provide therapeutic support in person in Nundah, Brisbane or telehealth Australia wide. I am queer, neurodivergent (Autism & ADHD) and non-binary. I am passionate about providing therapeutic support to neurodivergent (particularly Autistic folks & ADHDers) and LGBTQIA+ adolescents and adults.
(07) 2100 4431 View (07) 2100 4431
Photo of Samantha Carruthers, MPsych, MAPS, Psychologist
Samantha Carruthers
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000
For adults seeking 1-1 support from an experienced and caring psychologist. Together we can work on issues such as adjusting to life changes, symptoms of anxiety and depression or simply getting your mojo back. I have extensive experience working with executive leaders and workplace issues. I created Anahata Psychology and Consulting Practice to facilitate change, with Heart. I offer face to face and telehealth. Telehealth suits people who don’t necessarily have the time to come into an office, live away or prefer the privacy of their own home.
For adults seeking 1-1 support from an experienced and caring psychologist. Together we can work on issues such as adjusting to life changes, symptoms of anxiety and depression or simply getting your mojo back. I have extensive experience working with executive leaders and workplace issues. I created Anahata Psychology and Consulting Practice to facilitate change, with Heart. I offer face to face and telehealth. Telehealth suits people who don’t necessarily have the time to come into an office, live away or prefer the privacy of their own home.
(07) 4028 4850 View (07) 4028 4850
Photo of Jean Chaney - Hill Top Counselling Centre, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hill Top Counselling Centre
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000  (Online Only)
As a highly experienced mental health clinician with over 20 years' practice, I understand that people can suffer from anxiety, low motivation and mood changes when life's problems become overwhelming. Life can be challenging at times and tough times can leave us feeling overwhelmed and distressed. It's easier to overcome challenging times with the right support, and therapy can be a good option to help you "get back on track.'. My therapeutic approach is short term, recovery based, and future focused. I will always work with you in partnership, as you set your own personal goals for recovery.
As a highly experienced mental health clinician with over 20 years' practice, I understand that people can suffer from anxiety, low motivation and mood changes when life's problems become overwhelming. Life can be challenging at times and tough times can leave us feeling overwhelmed and distressed. It's easier to overcome challenging times with the right support, and therapy can be a good option to help you "get back on track.'. My therapeutic approach is short term, recovery based, and future focused. I will always work with you in partnership, as you set your own personal goals for recovery.
(08) 6109 8214 View (08) 6109 8214
Photo of Andy Allen, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andy Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000
I am very happy to work with individuals from all walks of life and backgrounds. I enjoy working with clients in freeing themselves of past traumatic experiences to live life more fully and freely. Additionally, I have extensive experience working from a lived experience lens with LGBTIQA+ communities and am kink, non-monogamous, and sex worker positive. I have a keen interest in working with people experiencing sexual health difficulties related to their mental health using a variety of hands-off counselling techniques. Finally, I offer couples counselling using the Gottman Method.
I am very happy to work with individuals from all walks of life and backgrounds. I enjoy working with clients in freeing themselves of past traumatic experiences to live life more fully and freely. Additionally, I have extensive experience working from a lived experience lens with LGBTIQA+ communities and am kink, non-monogamous, and sex worker positive. I have a keen interest in working with people experiencing sexual health difficulties related to their mental health using a variety of hands-off counselling techniques. Finally, I offer couples counselling using the Gottman Method.
(03) 9994 1801 View (03) 9994 1801
Photo of Kirsten Maclean Barnett, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Kirsten Maclean Barnett
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melbourne, VIC 3000
I provide a safe and inclusive space where you can express yourself authentically, and where you will be held in a non-judgmental and deeply compassionate way. You might be experiencing a significant life event or transition … feeling overwhelmed, stressed, anxious or depressed … a big question or uncertainty might loom over you ... or maybe you have curious body symptoms or dreams. I will support you to uncover the unknown. Working with clients of all genders from teen into late adulthood, although I also specialise in menstrual cycle awareness and rites of passage midwifery.
I provide a safe and inclusive space where you can express yourself authentically, and where you will be held in a non-judgmental and deeply compassionate way. You might be experiencing a significant life event or transition … feeling overwhelmed, stressed, anxious or depressed … a big question or uncertainty might loom over you ... or maybe you have curious body symptoms or dreams. I will support you to uncover the unknown. Working with clients of all genders from teen into late adulthood, although I also specialise in menstrual cycle awareness and rites of passage midwifery.
(08) 5117 3155 View (08) 5117 3155
Photo of Carly Dober, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Carly Dober
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melbourne, VIC 3000
I work with people of various cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds in both specialist health services (justice, family violence), schools (from Prep to Year 12) and specialist mental health services (adult residential services). I also facilitate group wellbeing programs for individuals & businesses, and have co-facilitated group workshops focused on teaching people practical skills to manage distress. I work best with people who are ready to take what we discuss in session, and implement this in their lives. I am a Director on the board with Australian Association of Psychologists Incorporated (AAPi).
I work with people of various cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds in both specialist health services (justice, family violence), schools (from Prep to Year 12) and specialist mental health services (adult residential services). I also facilitate group wellbeing programs for individuals & businesses, and have co-facilitated group workshops focused on teaching people practical skills to manage distress. I work best with people who are ready to take what we discuss in session, and implement this in their lives. I am a Director on the board with Australian Association of Psychologists Incorporated (AAPi).
1300 286 125 View 1300 286 125
Photo of Perri Carlson-Hawke, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Perri Carlson-Hawke
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000
I am a skilled and experienced clinical psychologist, deeply committed to providing compassionate and effective care. I have developed a reputation as a warm, empathetic, and trustworthy psychologist who is able to connect with her clients on a deep level. I have helped countless individuals overcome a wide range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, and disordered eating.
I am a skilled and experienced clinical psychologist, deeply committed to providing compassionate and effective care. I have developed a reputation as a warm, empathetic, and trustworthy psychologist who is able to connect with her clients on a deep level. I have helped countless individuals overcome a wide range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, and disordered eating.
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Photo of Mim Kempson - Sex and Relationship Therapist | Mim Kempson, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Sex and Relationship Therapist | Mim Kempson
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000
As a Sexologist and Registered Counsellor, I support individuals and couples facing challenges in sex, communication, dating, libido, FIFO relationships, neurodiversity (ADHD/ASD), family stresses, sexual difficulties/pain, codependency, healing from betrayal, ENM/polyamory, and more. I work with LGBTQ+ people and anyone feeling constrained or exhausted by the pressures to have a certain kind of marriage/relationship, income, family, career, appearance, to behave in a certain way, and be a certain person.
As a Sexologist and Registered Counsellor, I support individuals and couples facing challenges in sex, communication, dating, libido, FIFO relationships, neurodiversity (ADHD/ASD), family stresses, sexual difficulties/pain, codependency, healing from betrayal, ENM/polyamory, and more. I work with LGBTQ+ people and anyone feeling constrained or exhausted by the pressures to have a certain kind of marriage/relationship, income, family, career, appearance, to behave in a certain way, and be a certain person.
(08) 7079 5667 View (08) 7079 5667
Photo of Sally Boothby, MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Sally Boothby
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Elwood, VIC 3184
I have over 25 years' experience of supporting and empowering people in a range of settings. I currently run my own practice in Elwood, focusing on supporting people to improve the quality of their lives. Specialising in (but not limited to) anxiety, addictive behaviours, trauma recovery, family violence, and ADHD, I bring a range of therapeutic techniques to my practice.
I have over 25 years' experience of supporting and empowering people in a range of settings. I currently run my own practice in Elwood, focusing on supporting people to improve the quality of their lives. Specialising in (but not limited to) anxiety, addictive behaviours, trauma recovery, family violence, and ADHD, I bring a range of therapeutic techniques to my practice.
(03) 7003 2881 View (03) 7003 2881
Photo of Jodie Arnot, MA, PACFA, Counsellor
Jodie Arnot
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Malvern, VIC 3144
Discover the freedom of no longer being your own worst critic. • You might like support with: Self-criticism, Concerns about not being "enough", Body image, Low self-worth, Perfectionism, Problematic relationship with exercise, Comparison pressures, Burnout, Overwhelm... Maybe you feel like you're constantly getting in your own way, holding yourself back, or wasting valuable moments at war with yourself? I can help.
Discover the freedom of no longer being your own worst critic. • You might like support with: Self-criticism, Concerns about not being "enough", Body image, Low self-worth, Perfectionism, Problematic relationship with exercise, Comparison pressures, Burnout, Overwhelm... Maybe you feel like you're constantly getting in your own way, holding yourself back, or wasting valuable moments at war with yourself? I can help.
(03) 6144 6013 View (03) 6144 6013
Photo of Rebecca Reale - Wholehearted Psychology, MPsych, MAPS, Psychologist
Wholehearted Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000
We can focus on a specific problem area you bring to therapy, and delve to a deeper level of understanding of the issue/s so as to resolve it, or we can work in a more fluid, open-ended manner, with self-discovery in mind. While I am not resistant to diagnosis and working within a pathological lens, I like to see people outside of narrow diagnostic labels. In the first instance, my first approach is to understand a client’s suffering by learning about them as unique individuals with complex histories and adaptive coping strategies. As I engage wholeheartedly with clients, my ask is that clients attempt to engage wholeheartedly too.
We can focus on a specific problem area you bring to therapy, and delve to a deeper level of understanding of the issue/s so as to resolve it, or we can work in a more fluid, open-ended manner, with self-discovery in mind. While I am not resistant to diagnosis and working within a pathological lens, I like to see people outside of narrow diagnostic labels. In the first instance, my first approach is to understand a client’s suffering by learning about them as unique individuals with complex histories and adaptive coping strategies. As I engage wholeheartedly with clients, my ask is that clients attempt to engage wholeheartedly too.
(03) 8338 1979 View (03) 8338 1979
Photo of Claire Dicarlo - Rad Parents | Claire Dicarlo , ACA-L1, Counsellor
Rad Parents | Claire Dicarlo
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000  (Online Only)
As parents, we're pressured to have perfect families and bombarded with advice on how to raise our kids. But so many of us are struggling with little support - we usually don't have the 'village' people speak of. It’s no wonder we end up feeling overwhelmed and stressed instead of enjoying family life. If you feel exhausted, anxious or angry, or you feel guilty that you're not the parent you want to be - you are not alone. So many parents tell me they wish they'd enjoyed the early years more. I don't want you to have those regrets.
As parents, we're pressured to have perfect families and bombarded with advice on how to raise our kids. But so many of us are struggling with little support - we usually don't have the 'village' people speak of. It’s no wonder we end up feeling overwhelmed and stressed instead of enjoying family life. If you feel exhausted, anxious or angry, or you feel guilty that you're not the parent you want to be - you are not alone. So many parents tell me they wish they'd enjoyed the early years more. I don't want you to have those regrets.
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Photo of Kirstin Robertson-Gillam, PhD, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Kirstin Robertson-Gillam
Psychotherapist, PhD, PACFA
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000  (Online Only)
I offer tailored counselling by phone or video for people navigating neurological conditions and age-related cognitive changes, as well as for their adult children coping with their parents' evolving health challenges. I will collaborate with your medical professionals by providing comprehensive clinical assessments and reports. As an associate of the Parkinson's Unit, Concord Hospital, Sydney, and a former practitioner at Dementia Australia, I have clinical experience with neurodegenerative conditions. My goal is to empower you with practical coping strategies, guided meditations, and an enhanced understanding of cognitive health.
I offer tailored counselling by phone or video for people navigating neurological conditions and age-related cognitive changes, as well as for their adult children coping with their parents' evolving health challenges. I will collaborate with your medical professionals by providing comprehensive clinical assessments and reports. As an associate of the Parkinson's Unit, Concord Hospital, Sydney, and a former practitioner at Dementia Australia, I have clinical experience with neurodegenerative conditions. My goal is to empower you with practical coping strategies, guided meditations, and an enhanced understanding of cognitive health.
(02) 6188 7349 View (02) 6188 7349
Photo of Lexie Ashwell-Jones - The Kink Counsellor (Lexie Ashwell-Jones), MC, ACA-L2, Counsellor
The Kink Counsellor (Lexie Ashwell-Jones)
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000  (Online Only)
Life is messy and imperfect. Sexuality and identity is a lifelong journey. So many of us are limited in our exploration due to shame, stigma, or lack of sexuality education. I believe in a sex-positive approach which acknowledges and celebrates the diversity of human sexuality, identity and expression. When we are informed, empowered and validated, we live happier and more authentic lives.
Life is messy and imperfect. Sexuality and identity is a lifelong journey. So many of us are limited in our exploration due to shame, stigma, or lack of sexuality education. I believe in a sex-positive approach which acknowledges and celebrates the diversity of human sexuality, identity and expression. When we are informed, empowered and validated, we live happier and more authentic lives.
(02) 9100 0765 View (02) 9100 0765

See more therapy options for Saint Kilda East

Feminist Counsellors

How does feminist therapy work?

Feminist therapy sessions are not only personal but often cultural or political in nature, as the approach is based on the belief that people are affected by, and often struggle with, cultural and societal norms and biases, and need to move beyond those external pressures or stressors to tap their own confidence and engage more fully in their own identity. Sessions may therefore include discussions of sexism, diversity, and gender issues and talk of steps toward greater empowerment for patients who believe they have been silenced and seek to raise their voices.

What are examples of feminist therapy techniques?

Along with traditional talk therapy and analysis, a feminist therapist may employ techniques such as role-playing and assertiveness training to help clients build their self-esteem so that they feel they can act freely, and not based on cultural expectations or gender roles dictated by others. A feminist therapist may also engage in bibliotherapy, offering suggested readings on gender identity or social power inequities as they work toward viewing mental-health concerns through a broad cultural lens before focusing on how they affect the individual. Somatic therapy techniques, with an emphasis on body awareness, self-compassion, and mindfulness practices are also often part of feminist therapist practice.

How long does feminist therapy last?

As with most forms of talk therapy, there is no set duration or end point for feminist therapy; people who believe that they are making progress typically continue until they feel they’ve addressed the issues that had been holding them back. It may take some time to become comfortable discussing personal issues, but once a client feels they can do so, they could expect therapy to last for a number of months, typically including at least 12 sessions.

Does feminist therapy work?

As a relatively recent therapeutic technique, there is not yet a body of evidence proving the efficacy of feminist therapy. However, the approach is based on proven core principles of talk therapy, with a particular emphasis on developing a therapeutic relationship based on equality and authentic connection between therapist and client and discovering and building on clients’ personal strengths to help them gain a greater sense of personal power and agency.