Sophie Allan

Sophie is a registered Senior Clinical Psychologist and a Board-Approved Clinical Supervisor. She is a Member of the Australian Psychological Society (MAPS), the College of Clinical Psychologists, the Australian Clinical Psychology Association (ACPA), and holds an ANZAED Eating Disorder Credential. Sophie completed her Master of Clinical Psychology at Australian Catholic University in Melbourne.

Sophie has experience working with clients across the lifespan. She is passionate about working with adolescents (15+) and adults. She has worked in private and public mental health settings, including hospitals, private clinics, and schools. 

Sophie is interested in treating a range of client presentations including mood and anxiety disorders, emotional dysregulation, distress tolerance difficulties, interpersonal challenges, personality disorders, perfectionism, academic and achievement-based difficulties, low self-esteem, stress, life transitions, chronic pain and disordered eating and body image concerns. 

Sophie’s therapeutic orientation is informed by psychodynamic and attachment-based principles. She brings values of connection, authenticity, and humour to her practice. 

Sophie utilises an eclectic approach, based on the needs of the clients, that draws on Schema Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT).

Ivana Bacovic

Ivana is a registered Clinical Psychologist, who is a Member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS), Melbourne Centre for Emotionally Focused Therapy (MCEFT), Australian Institute of Emotion Focused Therapy (AIEFT) and International Society for Sexual Medicine (ISSM). She is an LGBTIQA+ ally and her pronouns are she/her. Ivana is a multilingual clinician. She is able to provide therapy in English, Serbian, Bosnian and Croatian.

Ivana’s background includes working with a wide range of psychological problems across various settings including private practice, public hospitals and non-for-profit organisations. 

Ivana recognises the courage and vulnerability it takes for clients to engage in therapy and considers the therapeutic relationship a key aspect for change. She utilizes an evidence-based approach to therapy and acknowledges the individual needs of clients and how these may change throughout their life depending on the situations and stressors they experience.

Ivana creates a warm, safe, non-judgemental environment for her clients and is invested in working with clients on their growth.

Ivana’s areas of interests include Depression , Anxiety, Trauma and complex trauma, adjustment/life transitions, anger management, ADHD and ASD, Grief and loss, interpersonal and relationship difficulties, perfectionism, stress and burn-out, as well as sleep difficulties 

Ivana’s goals are to help her clients identify their strengths, gain deeper insight and understanding of themselves, and develop healthier coping responses. 

Evidence based treatments used by Ivana are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) , Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) , Schema Therapy , Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Compassion Focused Therapy, Mindfulness and Motivational Interviewing (MI).

Paula Botero

Paula is a registered psychologist who embraces a person-centred therapeutic framework, valuing collaboration, compassion, and authenticity. She excels at building genuine therapeutic relationships, focusing on being fully present with her clients to help them navigate significant changes for a more meaningful life.

Her clinical experience spans a range of psychological issues including depression, anxiety, anger management, and emotional regulation, with a keen interest in trauma and personality disorders. Paula skillfully integrates Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindfulness-Based Therapies into her practice.

Paula’s ability to work with culturally and linguistically diverse populations, especially migrants from Spanish-speaking countries, highlights her strong intercultural competencies. She assists clients in overcoming challenges related to cultural adaptation and transition, ensuring a compassionate and effective therapeutic experience. Curious for more on Paula’s background? Read on below.

Tim Bramley

Tim is a registered Clinical Psychologist experienced in working with individuals across a range of age groups and treatment settings. 

He has experience in treating anxiety, stress, depression, mood dysregulation, grief, loss, shame, guilt, low self-esteem, eating disorders, personality disorders, as well as behaviours of addiction.  He has assisted people with issues arising from interpersonal relationships, as well as family conflicts and carer support.  Additionally, Tim has supported many patients in adjustment to cancer diagnosis and treatment, end of life issues, as well as managing chronic illness and pain.

Tim’s therapeutic approach is to work with clients to nurture their capacity for self-awareness, self-compassion and self-acceptance.  His work is evidence-based, client-centred, professional, and guided by the core values of care and kindness. He also sees great importance in working collaboratively with his clients and their family members or support systems, where possible.  These therapeutic goals are further complemented by his extensive experience and practice in a variety of meditation techniques. 

Additionally, Tim has a degree in Philosophy, which greatly informs and enriches his clinical practice.  His role as an advocate and a promoter of social justice is reflected in his work in policy developments aimed at improving the resources of Victorian mental health facilities.

Dr Ninawa Butrus

Dr Ninawa Butrus is a Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Board Approved Clinical Supervisor. She has more than 10 years of experience working across a range of clinical settings including: drug and alcohol treatment services; community-based Area Mental Health Services, including inpatient, outpatient and acute/crisis work; employment services; prisons and community correctional services; and private practice. She is a Member of the Australian Psychological Society (MAPS) and the Australian Clinical Psychology Association (ACPA) and is a Fellow of the College of Clinical Psychologists.

Ninawa provides clinical psychological assessment and treatment for individual adult clients and teens (aged 15 years +). Her main areas of practice include the assessment and treatment of personality disorders, identity and sense of self issues, substance use/addictive behaviours, anxiety / worry / panic, avoidance, depression, emotion regulation, stress / coping issues, adjustment difficulties, trauma, dissociation / depersonalisation, anger, self-esteem / assertiveness, suicidal thoughts / self-harming behaviours, relationship difficulties, and workplace issues, and some forensic issues / offending behaviours (upon enquiry). Ninawa is known for her specific expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of complex personality disorders. Ninawa also has an interest in providing psychological services to support busy professionals, healthcare workers and university students.

Ninawa strives to inform, motivate and empower her clients to be the best they can be. Her approach involves clinically assessing the client's presenting problems, providing feedback and recommendations for treatment, assisting clients with setting realistic treatment goals, and then accompanying clients on their unique journey towards meaningful change using psychological therapy.

Laura Coat

Laura is a registered Clinical Psychologist and is currently undertaking further postgraduate study in forensic psychology. Laura is a Member of the Australian Psychological Society (MAPS) and a student member of the Australian and New Zealand Association of Psychiatry and Law (ANZAPPL) and International Association of Forensic Mental Health Services (IAFMHS). She completed her training in clinical psychology at The University of Tasmania and has since worked in a variety of public, private and correctional mental health settings in Tasmania, South Australia, and Victoria.

Laura is a Board-Approved Clinical Supervisor and available to provide supervision to provisional psychologists, generally and clinically registered psychologists, and psychologists undertaking the clinical registrar pathway.

Laura has experience working with adolescents and adults with a variety of mental health difficulties including anxiety, depression, stress, emotional dysregulation, self-injury/harm, anger, trauma, personality disorder. She also has experience working with clients in crisis, experiencing domestic violence, and those with forensic and offending backgrounds.

Laura is particularly interested in working with people who are experiencing sexual health-related concerns, including Vulvodynia, Vaginismus, Dyspareunia, Genito Pelvic Pain and Penetration Disorder (GPPPD), Prostatitis, Erectile Dysfunction. Her practice is LGBTQIA+, non-monogamy, sex work, and kink-inclusive, and she utilises a gender affirming approach. Laura is also trained in non-directive pregnancy counselling and can provide support to pregnant people and their partners under the Medicare partially-funded scheme.

Laura draws upon evidence-based frameworks to inform her therapeutic approach, including Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Schema Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Gottman Method of Relationship Therapy, Trauma-informed therapies, and Gender affirming care.

Georgina de Brelàz

Georgina is a Registered Psychologist with the National Psychology Board of Australia (AHPRA). She has more than two decades of experience in psychological practice in various settings, such as organisational, clinical and educational, and with clients of different ages and for a range of challenges. 

Georgina believes deeply in people's abilities to change, thrive and live meaningful lives. Georgina uses an integrative therapeutic approach that is person-centred, flexible and based on a genuine therapeutic relationship.

Georgina is passionate about providing support to clients when they are navigating challenging times in life, and also collaborating with clients when their aim is to focus on their self-development and growth. Her work is guided by the values of connection, collaboration, and kindness. She is described and seen as warm, approachable, and authentic. 

Georgina is interested in working with a range of clients who may be experiencing anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, complex trauma, grief and loss, low self-esteem, interpersonal or work difficulties, decision making challenges, life transitions, emotional challenges, and adjustment difficulties. 

Georgina’s aim is to work in collaboration with clients to better address their needs and hopes, within a strengths-based approach. She is familiar with different psychological modalities, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Schema Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Gestalt-therapy.

Georgina has completed some training in Eye Movement and Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy and is in the process of obtaining advanced training in EMDR.

Olivia Fox

Olivia is a registered psychologist with the National Psychology Board of Australia (AHPRA). She completed her clinical training at the Cairnmillar Institute. 

Olivia has experience working across the life span in both the private sector and hospital settings.  Olivia has provided psychology treatment to children, adolescents and adults with a variety of mental health concerns. 

Olivia has a particular interest in depression, anxiety, disordered eating, body image, self esteem and perfectionism related concerns . Olivia also has experience working with clients with trauma / complex trauma, and personality disturbances.

Olivia describes her style as genuine, warm, and empathetic.  Olivia understands that seeking therapy can be a daunting and vulnerable experience for many. She seeks to provide a safe and non-judgemental space for her clients to express themselves authentically.

Olivia’s therapy style is collaborative and she strives to meet each client at their current stage.  Her approach includes both skill-building, as well as developing awareness of how / why we face certain emotional challenges and our underlying vulnerabilities. Olivia believes in the power of assisting clients in their journey of self-discovery, and seeks to empower clients in taking steps to create meaningful changes in their lives. 

Olivia describes her therapy approach as eclectic in that she tailors her intervention to the unique needs of each client. Olivia draws upon therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotional Management Skills, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).

Ying Yi Guan

Ying Yi is a Senior Clinical Psychologist and a Board-Approved Supervisor. She completed her clinical training at the University of Melbourne. She has experience working across the lifespan in various primary and tertiary health settings in Victoria.  

Ying Yi’s experience extends to working with a range of neurodevelopmental disorders and mental health challenges including Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders (ADHD), mood disorders, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, personality vulnerability/traits, issues with attachment, and complex trauma. She also has a keen interest in working with younger clients facing various emotional and behavioural challenges in educational and home environments and family work.   

In her practice, Ying Yi places paramount importance in creating safety and authenticity within a therapeutic relationship to co-create change and growth with her clients. She also believes in working collaboratively with clients and those within their support system when possible. 

Ying Yi has a warm, curious, and empathetic approach and strives to meet where her client is at. Through therapy, she hopes to help clients develop better emotional management skills, greater reflective capacity, emotional attunement, and self-compassion.  

Ying Yi draws on various evidence based therapies including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), and Mentalisation-Based Therapy. She is also strongly guided by trauma-informed, emotional-focused, attachment-based, and family-based approaches. She is a registered Circle of Security Parenting Facilitator and is currently undergoing training as a Child-Parent Psychotherapy Therapist.   

Priscilla Floyd

Priscilla is a Consultant Psychologist and completed her studies at the University of Melbourne and Victoria University. Her thesis was in the area of men’s mental health and the effects of exercise on mental health and psychological wellbeing.  Prior to becoming a psychologist, Priscilla was admitted to practice as a lawyer, and worked in employee relations and as an accredited mediator.  Priscilla continues to take a keen interest in workplace psychology and uses her mediation skills in facilitating a safe and productive space for family therapy and couples, including those who are separating.

Priscilla enjoys working with young adults (e.g., 18 – 40) and people of all ages navigating life transitions and personal difficulties for interventions of short, medium or long term duration as required.  Presentations Priscilla frequently works with include anxiety, depression, OCD, stress, trauma, relationship and work difficulties, disordered eating and substance abuse.

Priscilla applies a range of evidence-based approaches tailored to the individual client, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT), Schema Therapy and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) informed approaches, and Positive Psychology.

Priscilla is also trained in Gottman Level 1 couples therapy, which delivers practical tools to help couples strengthen their relationship and manage conflicts.

Priscilla’s therapeutic style is collaborative, animated, friendly, compassionate and analytical. She aims to shed light on the primary causes of a client’s challenges and bring awareness to each client’s innate strengths, wisdom and values to live a more fulfilling life.  

Dr Amber Fougere

Amber is a registered Clinical and Forensic psychologist and a Board-Approved Clinical Supervisor.  Originally from Canada, she completed her training at Monash University, and has extensive experience in the public and private sectors in Canada and Australia.

Amber’s warm, genuine, and at times irreverent approach helps her clients to feel at ease.  She tailors evidence-based approaches to the unique needs of each of her clients to support their recovery.  Amber believes in taking the time to build strong therapeutic relationships with her clients, as she believes this is a crucial component of therapy. 

Amber has advanced training and experience working with individuals with complex trauma, attachment disorders, and dissociative disorders.  She also has special interests in personality disorders, in particular Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD).  She has completed intensive training in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) with Behavioral Tech.

In addition, Amber is experienced in helping individuals struggling with anxiety disorders, anger management concerns, self-injury/harm, substance abuse problems, and eating disorders. 

Amber is passionate about the work she does, and is constantly maintaining and updating her skills through regular professional development.  In particular, she looks for development in the areas of personality disorders, trauma, and issues related to dissociation.  She is a strong advocate for her clients and for the field of mental health more broadly.  She is thus an active participant in professional organizations for this purpose.

In addition to her clinical work, Amber has authored a number of research articles and held some interesting presentations and workshops. You can find out more here.

Persia Hegarty

Persia is a Senior registered Clinical Psychologist and is a member of the Australian Psychological Society (MAPS). She has extensive experience in a range of clinical settings with young people and adults across primary and tertiary mental health settings.

Persia enjoys working with a range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, emotion regulation, interpersonal difficulties, sleep, grief and adjustment, perinatal and general physical health, eating and body image related issues.

Persia is passionate about assisting people live their most fulfilling life and believes that significant change begins with the smallest step. She provides a warm, compassionate, therapeutic environment where you can explore any challenges that you may be facing within a safe, nonjudgmental space.

Persia work focuses on your strengths, identifying unhelpful patterns, building skills to help manage challenges, and working towards valued life goals. Persia enjoys working collaboratively with her clients and tailors’ evidence-based treatment approaches to her client’s needs and goals. She has extensive training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT).

Dr Connie Kellett

Connie is a Consultant Therapist with a Clinical Social Work background. She is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker (AMHSW) who has studied and worked at the University of Melbourne, with more than 25 years of experience in providing therapeutic interventions.

Connie has extensive experience in domestic violence and trauma. Most recently she has held a pivotal role in the Victorian Government designing and implementing Victoria's family violence and mental health responses following recent Royal Commissions.

Connie provides individual, couples and family therapy, as well as relationship counselling. She is experienced in supporting children and adults. She also has a special interest in providing support for people from the LGBTQIA+ community. Client-centred, trauma-informed and strengths-based approaches are taken in all her work. She also provides clinical supervision to practitioners.

Connie believes that everyone can benefit from reflecting upon their life circumstances, in particular, those who are experiencing or have experienced difficult life transitions, distress and trauma. She considers clients in relation to their psychological and physical wellbeing as well as their broader social, cultural and systemic environment.

In her therapeutic work, Connie's invitational approach to clients is warm and empathic. Clients are invited to discuss their preferences within counselling from the outset. Throughout therapy, Connie aims to join with you, and be guided by you and your individual needs with the view to improve your emotional and mental wellbeing.

Widely published, Connie is an experienced educator through public presentations, professional development, Social Work Masters teaching and training. She is an active and continuing researcher with the University of Melbourne in disasters, family violence, and best-practice support for clients post-trauma.

Shamila Kumara

Shamila is a Clinical Psychologist registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). She approaches clients with a genuine nature and warmth. Her aim is to create a judgement-free space where all people can feel their most comfortable.

Shamila has experience in working with clients across the lifespan. She has worked in both private practice settings, hospital and community mental health services.

Shamila has experience working with various concerns, including mood and anxiety disorders, emotion regulation issues, challenges in relation to cultural and ethnic identity, Trauma (including PTSD) and complex Trauma, issues related to self-esteem, perfectionism, sleep, addictions and psychosis.

Shamila utilises a variety of evidence based therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Schema Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI).

When working with clients, Shamila works to facilitate a collaborative therapeutic relationship. She appreciates that every individual comes with their own story, and as such she provides tailored treatment plans in line with her clients’ goals. Shamila also enjoys equipping her clients with as well as psychoeducation, aiming to empower them in understanding their experiences and underlying factors that maintain this.

Shamila welcomes new clients from 22nd January 2024.

Dr Cherry Lau

Cherry is a Registered Senior Clinical Psychologist and is a Member of the Australian Psychological Society (MAPS) and American Psychological Association (APA).

 Cherry has over 10 years of clinical experience in the field of Psychology in Hong Kong. She has worked with adult clients experiencing various emotional and behavioral issues, such as depression, anxiety, phobias, emotional dysregulation, obsessive compulsive issues, and eating disorder. She is also experienced in the treatment for children experiencing depression and anxiety, as well as other developmental challenges such as Attention Deficit / Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), social, communication and behavioural issues.

In addition, Cherry has extensive experience in providing public presentations, seminars, and conducting lectures in universities. Topics include parenting, mental health issues, supporting young children with diverse needs and their families, as well as social, emotional, behavioural, and developmental disabilities.

Cherry believes that by focusing on the psychological roots of emotional suffering, we can look into the problematic relationship patterns in our life. The main goal of psychotherapy is not only to alleviate the most obvious symptoms but to help individuals improve emotional well-being and lead healthier lives.  

When providing therapy, Cherry believes that genuineness and congruence, unconditional positive regard and empathetic understanding are crucial. She adopts integrative techniques from psychodynamic, humanistic, existential and CBT approaches. She particularly values the importance of providing clients with a non-judgemental environment that they feel safe, and that affirms the inherent value of each individual.

Dr Davi Manzini Macedo

Davi is a registered Psychologist and a member of the Australian Association of Psychologists (AAPi). Through his research background, Davi values the importance of evidence-based practice and ongoing training. Davi has experience as a Post-doctoral research associate with a focus on the social determinants of psychological wellbeing. Davi holds a doctorate degree from the University of Adelaide and you can find his extensive list of published articles and book chapters here.

Through his clinical experience, Davi values the use of evidence-based approaches for each individual’s unique traits and needs. By adopting a person-centred approach, Davi understands each person as the expert on their own difficulties and potential for change. At the same time, he thrives in supporting others to overcome past and present challenges and build meaningful and fulfilling lives. Davi values developing a therapeutic relationship based on warmth, kindness, and an occasional pinch of humour.

Davi has experience in working with a wide range of client presentations, including Depression and other mood disorders, Anxiety related conditions, Emotion Regulation difficulties, Personality vulnerabilities / challenges, Trauma, Complex Trauma, stress- related disorders, grief, anger management, life transitions, as well as interpersonal / relationship challenges, and navigating bullying and harassment. He also has a special interest in helping individuals who survive / surviving narcissistic abuse.

Davi aims at creating a safe space where clients can discuss their difficulties whilst feeling treated with empathy, compassion, and genuine understanding.

Being born in Brazil, Davi is skilled at delivering therapy sessions in both English and Portuguese. Davi extends his welcome to all members of the LGBTQIA+ community and those who identify with culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

Davi uses interventions from a range of therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Schema Therapy. Prolonged Exposure Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). He is currently in advanced training for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR).

Nick Mueller

Nick is a registered Psychologist with extensive experience in psychotherapeutic counselling across diverse communities and a range of issues. Initially educated in psychology at Macquarie University, Nick began as a volunteer in crisis support and suicide prevention. He went on to focus on Psychotherapy and Buddhism, which has informed his philosophy of healing. His recent experience has been at Cabrini, where he provides psychological support for people seeking asylum. 

 Nick’s approach is based in authenticity, curiosity, creativity, and hope. He believes therapy can be a place for people to explore relationships with themselves and others, navigate change and improve emotional wellbeing. He has assisted people from different age group, cultural background, religion, gender and sexual identities.

Nick has strong interests in assisting individuals who have struggles with (complex) trauma, loss and uncertain futures. His other particular areas of interests include:

• survivors of domestic and family violence;

• people exploring gender and/or sexuality;

• children and young people;

• people with alcohol and other drug dependency, and;

• people living with severe and chronic mental disorders.

Nick’s counselling practice focuses on supporting individuals to integrate thoughts, feelings, relationships and behaviours.

His primary Therapeutic Approaches include Mindfulness-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).

Aishwarya (Aish) Nair

Aish (She/her) has experience working with people across the lifespan and from diverse backgrounds, presenting with issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, trauma, complex trauma and personality disorders.

Aish has extensive experience working with adults and young adults, particularly those with complex needs. She is particularly interested in trauma-based work. Her approach to therapy is very much rooted in trying to understand the origins of an individual’s challenges, providing a safe space that allows curiosity and positive regard, leading to skills-building and self-acceptance.

Aish builds honest, open and empathetic therapeutic relationships with her clients. She values collaboration in her consultations and will often encourage her clients to give her feedback. In the same way, she provides gentle, honest and non-judgemental feedback to clients based on what she observes and / or what information is provided in therapy sessions.

Aish utilises Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Mindfulness-based practices. She also provides EMDR to some clients following assessment of their trauma symptoms.

In addition to English, Aish also speaks Malayalam and basic Hindi.

Ruth Nguyen

Ruth Nguyen (she/her/they) is a registered Psychologist with the Australian Health Practitioner Agency (AHPRA) and a Member of the Australian Psychological Society (MAPS).

 Ruth lives and practices on Wurundjeri Woi-Wurrung Country. She/they are passionate about mental health and prioritises collaboration with clients in a non-judgmental space. Ruth hopes that with her professional support, clients can focus on recovery, wellbeing and thrive within their lives.  Ruth has therapeutic experience in group and individual work in private inpatient settings, community health, and most recently on a crisis assessment and treatment team based in a major hospital in far north-west Victoria.  

Ruth aims to practice with a trauma-informed, attachment, strengths and resilience-based framework. She is dedicated to cultivating a safe and encouraging therapeutic environment to promote meaningful discussion, skills acquisition, and insightful change.

Ruth welcomes clients wishing to do individual work in the space of general counselling and specific skills training relating to:

• self-development, identity, introspection of personality

• life transitions, burnout, stress, situational challenges

• ambiguous loss

• decision making

• emotional challenges

• relationships, sex positivity, sexuality, gender

• symptom reduction relating to anxiety and depression, and

• psychological impacts relating to chronic mental health illness

Ruth wishes to extend a specific welcome to clients who are from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, are indigenous or identify as LGBTIQA+.

Vivian Nguyen

Vivian (she/her) is a registered Clinical Psychologist working within both the private and public mental health sector. When working with clients, Vivian values transparency, empathy, and humanity which reflect in her strong commitment to client-tailored approaches, evidence-based practice, and ethical governance.

Vivian is trained and experienced in working across different age groups and with people of diverse backgrounds. Growing from her own personal experiences as a first-generation Vietnamese-Australian, Vivian is able to apply a culturally safe perspective to her work and invites her clients to explore, identify, and enhance their wellbeing, functionality, and relationships through the lens of their own unique history. She is a passionate clinician, aiming to support her clients through the natural changes that occur in life and championing an enriched interior life filled with compassion, insight, and empowerment.

Vivian works with adolescents, emerging adults, and adults motivated to achieve improved wellbeing but also those who are presenting with depression and anxiety concerns, relationship issues, emotional dysregulation, trauma and complex trauma, adjustment and transition difficulties, grief, relational and attachment trauma, challenges related to identity, addiction, personality disorder presentations such as Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), as well as Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Due to her former appointment with Tasmania Police, Vivian is also interested in working with emergency services personnel and their family members.

Vivian brings her experience in various evidence-based interventions when working with clients, such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Schema Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT).

Divya Pugazhenthi

Divya (she/her) is a registered Clinical Psychologist.  She has experience working with people across the lifespan, presenting with issues such as Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, anger management, interpersonal difficulties, trauma, complex trauma, and Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD).  Divya has also worked with clients whose challenges are related to neurodiversity, such as Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders (ADHD).

Divya has particularly interests with young people aged 12 to 25, having worked in the youth community and public mental health services, and schools.  Divya works to create a safe and inclusive space for all.  She enjoys working with the LGBTIQA+ community and individuals of various cultural backgrounds. She is compassionate and motivated to provide inclusive services.

Divya applies Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-based practices, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)-informed approaches and trauma-informed CBT in her practice.  Divya’s clients appreciate the respectful, open and empathetic relationships that she builds with them.  She collaborates with clients non-judgementally and provides a warm and supportive space to work towards their goals.  

Divya’s client-centred and informed approach has been impactful, as it involves getting to know the person, their story, their values and strengths to collaboratively work on their goals, effectively tailoring her approach to the individual. She believes in being able to help the individual develop skills to manage their mental health, and promote self-reliance and confidence.

Dr Alana Rogers

Alana is a registered Clinical Psychologist and a member of the Australian Psychological Society (MAPS).  She has extensive experience working within both primary and tertiary mental health settings.

Alana enjoys helping people move through challenging times, building a strong, collaborative relationship as she supports people to develop strategies to feel more confident in their ability to cope.  She works from a person-centred approach with warmth, kindness and compassion.  Throughout her practice, she tries to create a safe space in which people feel heard and understood, and experience unconditional acceptance, authenticity, integrity and hope.

Alana is experienced working with children, young people and adults.  While understanding that every individual is unique, she draws on a range of therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing and Schema Therapy to help clients with issues such as stress, adjustment, Anxiety, Depression, anger, emotional management difficulties, grief and loss, perfectionism, eating and body image related concerns, life transitions, trauma, complex trauma, existential, sleep and relationship difficulties.

Complementing her clinical work, Alana has authored various researcher papers focusing on perinatal mental health.  Click learn more to see her publications.

Rochelle Salita

 Rochelle is a registered Clinical Psychologist with a diverse range of experience in public health and university settings across both Victoria and Queensland. 

Rochelle has wide-ranging clinical interests relating to: trauma, complex trauma, emotional management problems, identity and behavioural problems, interpersonal, social and family issues, as well as child and adolescent specific difficulties. 

Warm and authentic in her approach, Rochelle is a passionate mental health advocate who seeks to understand her clients’ experiences from their own individual and unique perspectives. Working openly, flexibly and collaboratively with clients, Rochelle combines several integrative approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Schema Therapy, Psychodynamic-informed approaches, Open Dialogue approach, and Family Therapy.

Rochelle believes that mastery of the mind is key to personal empowerment.  She also believes that individuals do not exist in single spheres but rather in complex interpersonal ecosystems.  With this in mind, she has a strong interest in family and social network involvement in treatment.

Dr Ming Tam

Ming is a registered Clinical and Forensic Psychologist. She has diverse experience across public and private mental health settings, and in treating a range of psychological concerns and disorders.  

Ming is experienced in working with adults with issues of adjustment, anxiety, depression, stress, grief, mood disorders, relationship problems, managing intense emotions, experience of trauma and/or complex trauma.  Ming is also interested in working with individuals with maladaptive behavioural and/or emotional patterns, such as interpersonal difficulties, emotional regulation issues, impulsive behaviours, and individuals with personality disorders.  Additionally, Ming has experience in working with people from various cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

Ming believes that building a safe, trusting relationship with her client is the foundation for meaningful life changes.  Ming values transparency and openness in therapeutic relationships, complemented with supportive and non-judgemental exploration.

While being informed by a range of evidence-based therapeutic frameworks including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness-based therapy, and Trauma-Informed frameworks, Ming’s approach to therapy is individually tailored to meet the specific needs of her clients.  In addition to these skills-based approaches, Ming also aims at helping clients to develop understanding of their inner psychological processes, their past, and unhelpful patterns of thoughts and behaviours.

Ming’s focus is client-centred and often encourages feedback from clients to actively participate in their therapeutic journey. Ming enjoys working collaboratively with clients to empower them to learn new skills, and to redefine the relationships that they have with themselves, others, and the world.

Choo Hong Tan

Choo is a Registered Clinical Psychologist, a Member of the Australian Psychological Society (MAPS) and the Australian Clinical Psychologist Association (ACPA). Choo completed her training at the University of Melbourne, Australian National University and Australian Catholic University. She has a background working across the lifespan in both public and private settings, as well as in youth forensics. She also has a background in early childhood education and behavioural analysis.

Choo’s approach is warm, empathic and holistic, and takes into account the individual’s needs and personal story to therapy. She draws on the therapeutic relationship and works collaboratively with clients to achieve wellbeing in their lives. Growing up in multicultural Malaysia, Choo is passionate about working in an inclusive and affirming manner, and welcomes children (3 years or older), adolescents, adults, and older adults from all cultures, identities, orientations and walks of life.

Choo is interested in working with individuals with a range of presentations including trauma and complex trauma, anxiety and mood difficulties, neurodivergence (ADHD, Autism etc.), emotional dysregulation, adjustment and transitions, school readiness/academic based difficulties, grief and loss, interpersonal difficulties, challenges related to gender and identity, as well as personality disturbances / disorder.

Choo uses evidence-based frameworks and is trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR), Gottman Method and Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) for Couples Therapy. Choo’s therapeutic style is also influenced by trauma informed and relational frameworks such as psychodynamic, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and attachment theory.

Sophie Tan

Sophie is a registered Clinical Psychologist who has completed her training in Clinical Psychology at the University of Melbourne. She has experience working with individuals across different age groups, including young persons, adults and older adults in public and private settings.

Sophie’s therapeutic approach is informed by her authenticity to connect with others, positive regard and respect for each and every individual. She creates a warm and safe space for individuals to explore their difficulties, and values the therapeutic rapport that she builds with her clients. Sophie believes that in order to alleviate suffering, it is important as a first step to develop self-awareness to issues underlying personal distress and challenges. Throughout this journey, change and psychological healing shall occur.

Sophie has experience working with individuals from diverse age groups and socio-cultural backgrounds with a broad range of difficulties. These include, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, difficult emotions, emotional dysregulation, stress, adjustment issues, sleep problems, interpersonal challenges and relationship issues, trauma and complex trauma, as well as issues relating to physical health.

Sophie appreciates the utilization of different therapy modalities to best suit individuals' needs.  She mainly incorporates psychodynamic frameworks that focus on emotions, relational patterns and behaviours.  She is currently undertaking training in Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP).

Dr Janet Tong

Janet is a Registered Clinical Psychologist and a Member of the Australian Psychological Society (MAPS). Janet completed her Doctor of Clinical Psychology at Monash University. She has worked with children, adolescents, adults, older adults and families in public mental health settings.

Janet has experience treating anxiety, low mood, attachment-related difficulties, stress, grief, anger, low self-esteem, perfectionism, school-related issues, childhood trauma, existential issues, individuation, disordered eating, and challenging personalities.

With a preference for a systemic approach, she has assisted individuals with issues arising from interpersonal relationships and the wider family system, and strives to work collaboratively with clients and their families if possible. She has also worked in health settings, supporting patients in navigating their feelings around their cancer or chronic illness diagnoses, treatment, and rehabilitation.

Janet values authenticity, compassion and empathy. Her therapeutic approach is client-informed, strengths-based and trauma-informed. Her therapeutic style is eclectic; drawing techniques from evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Schema Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), trauma-informed practice, mindfulness, narrative therapy and family-based approaches. She supports clients to turn within for self-exploration, to develop the skills to identify unhelpful patterns and work towards meaningful change.

Dr Melissa Tso

Melissa is a registered Psychologist, and an endorsed Forensic Psychologist, with experience providing therapy in a range of private and public health settings.

Melissa’s therapeutic style utilises a combination of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Psychodynamic- and Schema-informed therapy.

Her areas of interest include mood disorders (such as anxiety and depression), adjustment issues, difficulties with stress and coping (including difficulties with emotional regulation and impulsive and compulsive behaviours), as well as interpersonal and relationship difficulties.

Melissa’s therapeutic approach emphasises the importance of the therapeutic alliance, working collaboratively with her clients, and empowering them by assisting with deepening their insight, enhancing curiosity about themselves, and building on their strengths.

Please note that Melissa is only consulting via Telehealth at present.

Tracy Wang

Tracy is a Psychologist trained in Melbourne and is a member of the Australian Psychological Society (MAPS). During her training as a clinician, she has assisted clients in the justice system mainly with their substance abuse and offending behaviour, but also presented with a range of complex mental health presentations.

Tracy is authentic and warm towards her clients. She holds positive regard, and believes in helping clients to manage their unresolved issues to maximise their growth as well as to improve their emotional and mental wellbeing. Tracy’s non-judgemental approach sees that she tends to build rapport and trust readily with clients. This provides clients with a sense of safety in therapy and helps to achieve optimal psychological outcome.

Tracy is interested in helping clients with a wide range of difficulties, such as depression, anxiety, attachment and family issues, interpersonal relationships, anger management, workplace issues, personality disturbance, career and life coaching, life and career transition, identity, and self-esteem.

In addition to the above, coming from a Chinese immigrant family herself, Tracy is deeply passionate about working with clients from the Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) backgrounds. She appreciates immensely the importance of cultural understanding in therapy, and how this contributes to change and progress in therapy. With this in mind, Tracy is interested in helping clients with both the unique challenges that arise from their own culture and identity, as well as cross-cultural difficulties within self and in the community.

Margaret Xiong

Margaret is an experienced Clinical Psychologist with more than 6 years of practice in community mental health, public outpatient and university counselling services.  

She is passionate about working with adults experiencing a range of mental health issues, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, stress, sleep issues, adjustment difficulties, issues related to study / work, relationship and / or personal growth.

Margaret has a warm, compassionate, caring and collaborative approach. She is committed to creating a safe, non-judgemental space for clients to delve into self-exploration, gaining insights into their experiences, emotions and challenges. She looks to support clients to build a deeper understanding of themselves and move toward building their own meaningful and fulfilling life.

Margaret recognises therapy is not a “one size fits all” practice. She tailors treatment approaches for each client, integrating treatment approaches such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Schema Therapy

Please note that Margaret is currently only consulting via Telehealth after hours.

Sally Yeh

Sally is a Clinical Psychologist who has worked with adults and young people in private settings, headspace, as well as in a hospital focusing on helping adults with sleep issues.

Sally has a special interest in working with clients experiencing social anxiety, sleep and career decision-making issues.  She is passionate about helping individuals with: Anxiety, including social and health anxiety, Phobias, Depression, stressful life changes, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, sleep difficulties, perfectionism, self-esteem and self-development, as well as decision-making, including career decision-making

Sally believes that all feelings and emotions are valid, and they are often there to help us. As such, she is very interested in working with her clients to understand themselves, their emotions and to develop awareness of where they are coming from.

Sally believes that celebrating our successes, however small they may feel, and using our strengths to support us can be meaningful and therapeutic, which in turn would help improve our emotional health.

Sally hopes to provide a warm, accepting and safe space for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings and strengths, and to empower them to achieve their wellbeing goals.