Feminist Counselling in Thornbury, VIC

Photo of Ruairi Gallagher, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ruairi Gallagher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thornbury, VIC 3071
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in the community sector. Having worked in both urban and regional locations in Australia, and in community-based roles in the UK and Canada, I pride myself on being able to connect with people from all walks of life. I've worked with people of all genders, sexualities, cultures and abilities. Whilst working on Vancouver Island, I ran addictions support groups made up of an assortment of individuals. Homeless folks would be facing similar issues to investment banker-types. This led to me becoming more interested in the universality of trauma and PTSD.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in the community sector. Having worked in both urban and regional locations in Australia, and in community-based roles in the UK and Canada, I pride myself on being able to connect with people from all walks of life. I've worked with people of all genders, sexualities, cultures and abilities. Whilst working on Vancouver Island, I ran addictions support groups made up of an assortment of individuals. Homeless folks would be facing similar issues to investment banker-types. This led to me becoming more interested in the universality of trauma and PTSD.
(03) 8338 4331 View (03) 8338 4331
Photo of Gillian Fernandes, MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Gillian Fernandes
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Thornbury, VIC 3071
I am Gillian, I am a couples and relationship counsellor. I work with relationships, supporting each person to feel understood, held, and connected. I specialise in working with people who want to cut through the noise to really connect with their partner/s. The grind of daily life or a big issue can cause ruptures in the relationship. I work with folks to have important, sometimes painful and often vulnerable, conversations to re-establish connection. When there is ambiguity, I specialise in helping people find clarity on a way to move forward, together, or apart.
I am Gillian, I am a couples and relationship counsellor. I work with relationships, supporting each person to feel understood, held, and connected. I specialise in working with people who want to cut through the noise to really connect with their partner/s. The grind of daily life or a big issue can cause ruptures in the relationship. I work with folks to have important, sometimes painful and often vulnerable, conversations to re-establish connection. When there is ambiguity, I specialise in helping people find clarity on a way to move forward, together, or apart.
(03) 8338 4369 View (03) 8338 4369
Photo of Alexa Sarah Powell - Alexa Powell Therapy , MA, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexa Powell Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Thornbury, VIC 3071  (Online Only)
I approach my work with people in a trauma informed, supportive, empathic and non judgmental way. Building a trusting therapeutic relationship is key to enable you to have a sanctuary for self discovery and connection as we work through life's complexities together. I work with adults of all ages and have extensive experience in grief, loss and trauma, including infertility and perinatal and suicide bereavement. My practice approach is grounded in social work theory and evidence based psychological strategies. I work collaboratively with you to build sustainable skills and approaches to support your mental health into the future.
I approach my work with people in a trauma informed, supportive, empathic and non judgmental way. Building a trusting therapeutic relationship is key to enable you to have a sanctuary for self discovery and connection as we work through life's complexities together. I work with adults of all ages and have extensive experience in grief, loss and trauma, including infertility and perinatal and suicide bereavement. My practice approach is grounded in social work theory and evidence based psychological strategies. I work collaboratively with you to build sustainable skills and approaches to support your mental health into the future.
(03) 8338 1670 View (03) 8338 1670
Photo of Alexandra Heynatz, MA, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandra Heynatz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thornbury, VIC 3071
Working with me is a collaborative process, oriented by curiosity, acceptance and choice. Sessions provide opportunity to rekindle awareness for what you most need and want, build trust in your wisest impulses, and reconnect with ways of living that disrupt harm, promote healing and support ease of being.
Working with me is a collaborative process, oriented by curiosity, acceptance and choice. Sessions provide opportunity to rekindle awareness for what you most need and want, build trust in your wisest impulses, and reconnect with ways of living that disrupt harm, promote healing and support ease of being.
(03) 8338 4265 View (03) 8338 4265
Photo of Kat Maguire, MA, PACFA, Counsellor
Kat Maguire
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thornbury, VIC 3071
Kat (she/her) is a clinically registered psychotherapist specialising in trauma-informed individual therapy for adults and older teens. Approaching her clients with a focus on understanding rather than labelling or diagnosing, Kat believes in delving into each individual's unique story with a nonjudgmental curiosity. With a distinctive mix of humour and warmth, she establishes a secure environment for clients to explore their inner and outer worlds with vulnerability.
Kat (she/her) is a clinically registered psychotherapist specialising in trauma-informed individual therapy for adults and older teens. Approaching her clients with a focus on understanding rather than labelling or diagnosing, Kat believes in delving into each individual's unique story with a nonjudgmental curiosity. With a distinctive mix of humour and warmth, she establishes a secure environment for clients to explore their inner and outer worlds with vulnerability.
(03) 7003 2952 View (03) 7003 2952
Photo of Maria Brates, MA, AThR, Counsellor
Maria Brates
Counsellor, MA, AThR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thornbury, VIC 3071
Hi, I’m Maria. I am an Art Therapist and Counsellor with over 14 years of experience. I am dedicated to empowering individuals on their journey towards self-discovery and emotional well-being. I offer a trauma-informed, non-judgmental, inclusive, and warm space for you to be yourself and discuss any topic you like. Guided by your needs, I support you in understanding and addressing areas that require change.
Hi, I’m Maria. I am an Art Therapist and Counsellor with over 14 years of experience. I am dedicated to empowering individuals on their journey towards self-discovery and emotional well-being. I offer a trauma-informed, non-judgmental, inclusive, and warm space for you to be yourself and discuss any topic you like. Guided by your needs, I support you in understanding and addressing areas that require change.
(03) 5615 2115 View (03) 5615 2115
Photo of Dr Kate McMahon, PhD
Dr Kate McMahon
Registered Music Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Thornbury, VIC 3071
I specialise in using evidence-based music and counseling approaches to help you build confidence, manage big emotions and cope with life's challenges. You might be looking to cope with chronic illness, depression or anxiety, or to connect better with yourself or someone else. You might want to loosen the impact of trauma on your life, or build confidence. You might be looking for a therapy that goes beyond words and taps into the wisdom of your body and creative soul. I bring 7 years of experience working with people across a range of life experiences, and a dedication to work with you to improve your life.
I specialise in using evidence-based music and counseling approaches to help you build confidence, manage big emotions and cope with life's challenges. You might be looking to cope with chronic illness, depression or anxiety, or to connect better with yourself or someone else. You might want to loosen the impact of trauma on your life, or build confidence. You might be looking for a therapy that goes beyond words and taps into the wisdom of your body and creative soul. I bring 7 years of experience working with people across a range of life experiences, and a dedication to work with you to improve your life.
(03) 8338 4138 View (03) 8338 4138
Photo of Rachel Lee - Plum Ripples
Plum Ripples
Verified Verified
Thornbury, VIC 3071  (Online Only)
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.
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 Paula Lay, MA, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paula Lay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AASW
Verified Verified
Thornbury, VIC 3071
I am a social worker, sensorimotor psychotherapist, and yoga teacher specialising in working with trauma, anxiety, and depression. My therapeutic approach includes working at the intersection of body-centred practices including sensorimotor psychotherapy, yoga, mindfulness and somatics, as well as bringing a social justice, intersectional lens.Through centring the wisdom of the body and felt-experience and supported by practices that nourish and expand nervous system self-regulation capacity, my aim is to create a kind and safe space within the therapeutic relationship to make space for healing, growth and transformation.
I am a social worker, sensorimotor psychotherapist, and yoga teacher specialising in working with trauma, anxiety, and depression. My therapeutic approach includes working at the intersection of body-centred practices including sensorimotor psychotherapy, yoga, mindfulness and somatics, as well as bringing a social justice, intersectional lens.Through centring the wisdom of the body and felt-experience and supported by practices that nourish and expand nervous system self-regulation capacity, my aim is to create a kind and safe space within the therapeutic relationship to make space for healing, growth and transformation.
(03) 8338 1137 View (03) 8338 1137
Photo of Carly Dober, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Carly Dober
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thornbury, VIC 3071
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 Lee Beaton, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Lee Beaton
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Thornbury, VIC 3071
Lee is a Gestalt Psychotherapist specialising in healing relationships. She works with both couples and individuals but specialise in attachment-focused couples work. She describes her therapeutic approach as person-centred, warm, effective, and compassionate. This allows her to help you unlock deep relational healing. The way we orientate to life is directly influenced by the multiple challenges we have faced in our upbringing, our environment, and our life circumstances. Lee believes the way we handle our and other’s emotions is what makes the difference to us living a connected and happy life by forming healthy relationships.
Lee is a Gestalt Psychotherapist specialising in healing relationships. She works with both couples and individuals but specialise in attachment-focused couples work. She describes her therapeutic approach as person-centred, warm, effective, and compassionate. This allows her to help you unlock deep relational healing. The way we orientate to life is directly influenced by the multiple challenges we have faced in our upbringing, our environment, and our life circumstances. Lee believes the way we handle our and other’s emotions is what makes the difference to us living a connected and happy life by forming healthy relationships.
(03) 6118 7199 View (03) 6118 7199
Photo of Ronnie Adamowicz, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Ronnie Adamowicz
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Thornbury, VIC 3071
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 Ruth Katerelos, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Ruth Katerelos
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Thornbury, VIC 3071
In over 20 years as a therapist, I have worked with a wide range of clients and couples with many and varied issues. I work in a way that is strongly client, and emotionally focused. I have worked with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, substance issues, food disorders, grief, child-hood trauma, uncertainty around sexuality and gender, around identity and self confidence/esteem. I work well with clients who are looking to change their lives and who are open to exploring their issues; to challenge their thinking and to examine what isn't working for them and to take practical steps to shift beyond where they are now.
In over 20 years as a therapist, I have worked with a wide range of clients and couples with many and varied issues. I work in a way that is strongly client, and emotionally focused. I have worked with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, substance issues, food disorders, grief, child-hood trauma, uncertainty around sexuality and gender, around identity and self confidence/esteem. I work well with clients who are looking to change their lives and who are open to exploring their issues; to challenge their thinking and to examine what isn't working for them and to take practical steps to shift beyond where they are now.
(02) 4504 0223 View (02) 4504 0223
Photo of Kate McLellan - Curam Psychology, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Curam Psychology
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Thornbury, VIC 3071
My approach to working with clients is collaborative and caring. I believe that the relationship between a client and therapist is one of the most important factors to successful therapy and building a strong, trusting foundation is key. I really enjoy supporting people to work through the emotional blocks which are preventing them from living their fullest life. The focus of my work is usually around developing an understanding a client's story and their unmet needs, supporting them to meet those needs, develop compassion for themselves, and cope with challenges.
My approach to working with clients is collaborative and caring. I believe that the relationship between a client and therapist is one of the most important factors to successful therapy and building a strong, trusting foundation is key. I really enjoy supporting people to work through the emotional blocks which are preventing them from living their fullest life. The focus of my work is usually around developing an understanding a client's story and their unmet needs, supporting them to meet those needs, develop compassion for themselves, and cope with challenges.
(03) 8400 0893 View (03) 8400 0893
Photo of Ana Galbán León - Galena Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Galena Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Thornbury, VIC 3071
Hi, I'm Ana, founder of Galena Psychology. In my practice I intend to bring warmth and attunement, providing a nurturing space where clients can deepen self-awareness and cultivate personal growth. I have a special interest in supporting young women who struggle with low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, and unresolved family trauma. My approach is ideal for those experiencing depression or feeling disconnected from themselves, as I guide them to find their strengths and build self-trust. It’s a privilege to support individuals in improving their lives, and I am very grateful to be part of people's healing journeys :)
Hi, I'm Ana, founder of Galena Psychology. In my practice I intend to bring warmth and attunement, providing a nurturing space where clients can deepen self-awareness and cultivate personal growth. I have a special interest in supporting young women who struggle with low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, and unresolved family trauma. My approach is ideal for those experiencing depression or feeling disconnected from themselves, as I guide them to find their strengths and build self-trust. It’s a privilege to support individuals in improving their lives, and I am very grateful to be part of people's healing journeys :)
(03) 8330 3112 View (03) 8330 3112
Photo of Lindsay Thomas, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsay Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Thornbury, VIC 3071
My name is Lindsay, I have over 20 years experience working with people who have experienced abuse and trauma.
My name is Lindsay, I have over 20 years experience working with people who have experienced abuse and trauma.
(03) 8338 4847 View (03) 8338 4847
Photo of Allison Browning, MA, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Browning
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Thornbury, VIC 3071
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 Cindy Bridge, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cindy Bridge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Thornbury, VIC 3071
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 Cassia Kelsall, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cassia Kelsall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thornbury, VIC 3071
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker (AMHSW) with post graduate qualifications in Narrative Therapy. I have worked as a counsellor for over 15 years and have worked with multiple themes and client groups, including family violence, complex trauma, grief and loss, family and social relationships, and life transitions. My work is trauma informed and uses a range of modalities including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Internal Family Systems. I am committed to developing and maintaining a non-judgmental, safe and trusting therapeutic relationship.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker (AMHSW) with post graduate qualifications in Narrative Therapy. I have worked as a counsellor for over 15 years and have worked with multiple themes and client groups, including family violence, complex trauma, grief and loss, family and social relationships, and life transitions. My work is trauma informed and uses a range of modalities including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Internal Family Systems. I am committed to developing and maintaining a non-judgmental, safe and trusting therapeutic relationship.
(03) 7003 2755 View (03) 7003 2755
Photo of Sam Solly, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Sam Solly
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Thornbury, VIC 3071
I am an experienced Clinical Psychologist and Accredited EMDR clinician with a special interest in EMDR Intensive therapy. Only taking referral for EMDR Intensives at this time. This therapy model differs from traditional therapy; rather than one 50-minute session once per week, it involves longer sessions (up to 3 hours) and more frequently (multiple per week or daily). The duration and frequency of the sessions can vary depending on your needs.
I am an experienced Clinical Psychologist and Accredited EMDR clinician with a special interest in EMDR Intensive therapy. Only taking referral for EMDR Intensives at this time. This therapy model differs from traditional therapy; rather than one 50-minute session once per week, it involves longer sessions (up to 3 hours) and more frequently (multiple per week or daily). The duration and frequency of the sessions can vary depending on your needs.
View
1

See more therapy options for Thornbury

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.