Our Team

DIRECTOR / SENIOR CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST

Rita is the founder and managing clinical director at STIA and works in both individual and group schema therapy. Rita is an AHPRA endorsed supervisor. Rita not only draws from Schema Therapy, but EMDR, CBT, DBT and Somatic approaches. Rita is an Advanced ST supervisor/Trainer (ISST), an EMDR Consultant (EMDRAA) & a psychedelic therapist (MMA). Rita is also the Vice President (Events & Symposia) for the Jeff Young Schema Therapy Association; she works mainly with complex PTSD, personality pathology and attachment trauma.

Working hours:

Essendon: Mon & Thurs (9-5)

Consult Fee: $300

PRINCIPAL / SENIOR CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST STIA WERRIBEE

Jessica is a warm, compassionate, and person-centred Clinical Psychologist who values creating a safe, respectful, and collaborative therapeutic space. She works from an evidence-based framework and tailors’ therapy to each individual’s unique experiences, needs, and goals.  Jessica draws on a range of therapeutic approaches, including Schema Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), EMDR, and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) skills. She works with clients in individual and group therapy settings, supporting people to better understand themselves, build emotional awareness, and develop meaningful and sustainable change at a pace that feels right for them.

 Jessica enjoys working across the lifespan with children, adolescents, and adults, and has a strong interest in supporting parents and families. She is passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges across different developmental stages and values working collaboratively where appropriate.

 Jessica is trained in psychological assessment and diagnosis. She has experience supporting people experiencing Depression, Anxiety disorders, Personality disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Complex Trauma, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and Eating disorders.

 Jessica is currently undertaking certification in Individual and Group Schema Therapy

Working hours:

Werribee: Mon (10.30 - 6), Tue-Wed (7am-2pm)

Telehealth: Thursdays 7-2pm

Consult: $280

SENIOR CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST/HEAD OF SUPERVISION

Kim is a registered clinical psychologist and board approved supervisor and has worked in public, private and higher education settings. He takes a person-centred approach to his clinical work and draws on a range of evidence-based approaches, including CBT, ACT, EMDR and schema therapy. He is also a registered mindfulness meditation teacher and integrates this practice into his clinical work. Kim has extensive experience working in posttraumatic mental health and has conducted international research in this field. Kim is Undergoing Individual Schema Therapy certification at the advanced level.

Working Hours:

Carlton: Tuesdays (9-5)

Essendon: Thursday (9-5) & Friday (8.30 - 4.30)

Telehealth: Wednesday (8- 4.30)

Consult: $280

SENIOR FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGIST/CLINICAL LEAD

Sarah is an accredited schema therapist and board approved supervisor. As a registered psychologist with endorsement in Forensic Psychology she has over 15 years of clinical experience. She is a person-centred therapist who applies evidence-based therapies in a personalised way, understanding that everyone’s life experiences are unique. Sarah is non-judgemental, warm and empathic in her approach. She has experience working with a range of concerns including substance use, anxiety, mood, personality, interpersonal difficulties, trauma-related issues, eating disorders and antisocial behaviours. Sarah has worked in private practice, forensic and community settings and utilises Schema Therapy as well as EMDR, ACT, CBT and Mindfulness to help her clients achieve their goals in therapy. Sarah has an interest in perinatal mental health.

Working Hours:

Carlton: Mondays 8-4

Essendon: Tuesdays 8-4 & Wednesday 8-3

Consult: $280

SENIOR CLINICAL PYCHOLOGIST/CLINICAL LEAD

Jennifer (she/her) is a Senior Clinical Psychologist and Board Approved Supervisor. Jennifer takes a client-centred approach and seeks to foster warm and genuine connections with the individuals she works with. She endeavours to create a safe, affirming, and judgement free space in which individuals feel comfortable to share and explore their experiences. Jennifer strives to be a neuroaffirming, sex positive, LGBTQIA+ friendly clinician, who works with individuals in all relationship structures.

Jennifer is passionate about working with autistic individuals, and has a wealth of experience providing assessments of neurodivergence. She has helped clients with a range of mental health difficulties, including; OCD, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, sexual dysfunction, panic disorder, phobias, and more. She has also supported individuals to navigate challenges related to intimacy, identity, relationships, and sexuality. She enjoys working with adolescents, and sees individuals aged 15 years and above. Jennifer uses a mix of evidence-based treatments, including EMDR, Schema Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), DBT, Mindfulness, and more.

Working Hours:

Essendon: Thursday 8-4

Telehealth: Fridays 1-5

Consult Fee: $280

CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST /CLINICAL LEAD

Rose is a Clinical Psychologist and Clinical Lead at the STIA. She takes a warm, compassionate, and person-centred approach to therapy, drawing on a range of evidence-based modalities including Schema Therapy, ACT, DBT, EMDR, CBT, and somatic interventions. Rose works with adolescents and adults, and has experience treating a wide range of concerns including mood disorders, PTSD, eating disorders, personality disorders, and more.

She has experience conducting group therapy and psychological assessments, and has worked in both private practice and hospital settings. Rose is committed to providing high-quality, culturally sensitive, trauma-informed care that is neuroaffirming and LGBTQIA+ friendly. It is important to Rose to be genuine in therapy and to establish a trusting and supportive environment for clients. She believes that effective therapy adapts to the individual. Her therapeutic work is guided by curiosity, collaboration, and a respect for each client’s unique story and strengths.

Working hours:

Essendon: Monday & Wednesday (9.30-6.30)

Online: Thursday (9:30-6:30)

Consult: $280

SENIOR CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST

Pippin is a genuine, warm and non-judgmental psychologist who aims to ensure her clients feel heard and understood working through Borderline Personality Disorder, Complex Trauma, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Anxiety and Depression. Pippin places particular importance on helping clients understand how their current problems may have arisen through earlier life experiences, as well as current factors that may be maintaining their presenting difficulties. Pippin is a Certified Schema Therapist (standard) and also utilises EMDR therapy in her clinical approach.

Working hours:

Thursday (Eltham onsite) 9.30 to 4pm

Wednesday (Telehealth) 5-7pm

Telehealth (Telehealth) 9am to 1.30pm

Consult Fee: $280

SENIOR CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST

Tracy is a compassionate and caring Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years experience working in public hospital, private practice and higher education settings.  Tracy is experienced in working with people who have experienced complex trauma, anxiety, depression, OCD and Bipolar Disorder, with an interest in also working with DID and BPD. Tracy aims to work in a way that is neuroaffirming and culturally sensitive, and is supportive of each person’s authentic gender and sexual identity.  Tracy integrates a range of therapeutic approaches including schema therapy, Eye-Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), somatic and mindfulness-based approaches. Tracy has extensive training and practice in mindfulness and compassion-based meditation, incorporating these practices into therapy when it is helpful for the individual. Tracy also has an interest in working with couples who wish to utilize schema therapy to develop a deeper understanding of their unmet childhood needs and how their coping styles play out in their relationship.  Tracy is a board approved supervisor, a Certified Advanced Individual Schema Therapist, and member of the International Schema Therapy Association.

Working hours:

Carlton - Mondays (9-5) & Thurs (2pm-8pm).

Telehealth - Wednesday (8am-2pm).

Consult: $280

SENIOR CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST

Linda Kenmar is a dedicated and accredited EMDR therapist, as well as a board-approved supervisor, bringing over 15 years of experience in public health to her practice. She specializes in addressing the complex issues surrounding childhood sexual assault, addictions, and trauma, which allows her to support clients through some of their most challenging experiences.

With a compassionate and client-centered approach, Linda aims to guide individuals toward a deeper understanding of themselves and their behavioural patterns. She helps clients explore their relationships with others and how they interact with the world, fostering personal growth and healing in the process.

Linda utilizes a variety of evidence-based therapeutic modalities, including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), family systems therapy, compassion-focused therapy, and schema therapy. This eclectic approach allows her to tailor treatment to meet the unique needs of each client.

In addition to her extensive work with trauma and addiction, Linda has a special interest in attachment, neurodiversity and couples’ therapy. She is passionate about creating an inclusive and supportive environment for individuals of all backgrounds helping couples improve their communication and deepen their connections.

Working Hours:

Carlton: Wednesdays (9-6)

Essendon: Saturdays (10-2.30)

Consult Fee: $280

CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST

Katrina is a compassionate and caring Clinical Psychologist who enjoys working with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, trauma, personality disorders, and difficulties managing in everyday life. She offers an eclectic approach to her therapy that utilises components of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Compassion-Focused Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy and Schema Therapy. Katrina’s approach is trauma-informed and is based on fostering a safe and supportive therapeutic environment. She is passionate about assisting individuals to develop a deep and empathic understanding of themselves in the context of their life experiences, with the goal of working together towards improved mental wellbeing and greater fulfilment in life.

 Working Hours:

Essendon: Mon, Wed (10-6) & Fridays (8-4)

Consult Fee: $265

CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST

Tegan is a clinical psychologist. She is passionate about creating a safe space where clients can collaboratively work towards achieving their therapeutic goals. Tegan utilises a neuro-affirmative and trauma informed approach in therapy and draws upon a range of evidence-based interventions including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Schema Therapy, EMDR, and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy.

Tegan has experience working with children and adults with adjustment, mood, anxiety, trauma- related, personality, and eating disorders. Tegan is involved in facilitating groups at STIA and diagnostic assessments.

Check out Tegan’s ED credentials here: https://connected.anzaed.org.au/connected/CredProfile?ID=35462

Working hours:

Essendon: Thursday 10-6pm & Friday 9-5

Telehealth: Tuesdays 9-5

Consult: $265

CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST

Lauren is a warm and compassionate Clinical Psychologist who focuses on building genuine and collaborative therapeutic relationships with her clients. Lauren supports individuals experiencing a range of concerns including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma, perfectionism, eating disorders and body image concerns, difficulties in interpersonal relationships, self-esteem and identity concerns, and adjustment to illness or life transitions. Lauren has particular interest working with women’s mental health concerns including perinatal depression, anxiety and adjustment, pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder, and challenges associated with menopause and perimenopause. She also enjoys working with LGBTQI+ individuals and those who have experienced sexuality or gender-based marginalisation.

 Lauren tailors treatment to individual clients’ values, goals and strengths. She applies techniques drawn from evidence-based approaches including Schema Therapy, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness, and interpersonal approaches, with particular interest in emotion-focused methods to promote deep emotional change. Lauren practices in an inclusive, culturally sensitive, trauma-informed way that aims to provide a safe and non-judgemental space for her clients to process their difficulties. She completed her PhD in imagery rescripting for​ anxiety and worry at UNSW Sydney and is currently undergoing Individual Schema Therapy certification at the advanced level.

Working Hours:

Carlton: Monday (8-5) & Thursday (8-2)

Essendon: Tuesday (9-6) & Fridays (8-4)

Consult: $265

SENIOR PSYCHOLOGIST/SOMATIC PSYCHOTHERAPIST

Sharna is a registered psychologist and somatic psychotherapist with over 13 years of experience who brings a unique integration of somatic and transpersonal approaches to her therapeutic work. She creates a safe and transformative space for clients by blending evidence-based treatments with holistic modalities. Sharna utilises EMDR, Havening, Somatic Experiencing, and mindfulness-based approaches, tailoring treatment to each client's individual needs.

With extensive experience in trauma-informed care and complex presentations, Sharna works effectively with both individuals and groups. Her therapeutic approach helps clients develop resilience, process past experiences, and reconnect with their authentic selves.

Sharna draws from her comprehensive training in various modalities including EMDR, somatic psychotherapy, and breathwork, while incorporating schema therapy principles into her practice. She works alongside her therapy dog Kiron to create a welcoming and supportive environment for healing.

Working Hours:

Essendon: Tues (10-6) & Weds (9-6)

Consult: $280

SENIOR PSYCHOLOGIST

Kylee has 20 years counselling experience supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds, presenting with a broad range of psychological issues.  This includes work with First Responder personnel and those with mild to more complex support needs in managing intense emotions and behaviours associated with anxiety, depression, isolation, grief, relationship discord, self-esteem, work stress and trauma response issues. 

 Kylee is warm, direct and collaborative.  She builds trust and rapport through attentiveness and genuine interest in understanding clients’ needs and concerns.  She provides a psycho-educational framework based on schema therapy and attachment principles, and holds the space for shared understanding, open discussion and healing.  From this platform, empowerment and action to live your best life is the goal. 

 In partnership with clients and at their own pace, Kylee promotes skill acquisition and develops treatment plans anchored in client centred, realistic and achievable outcomes; in the context of the client’s life, circumstance and readiness for change. 

 Working hours:

Carlton - Wed (8am-5pm)

Telehealth: Mon (8am-5pm)

Consult: $265

REGISTERED PSYCHOLOGIST (CLINICAL REGISTRAR)

Laura is a warm and caring therapist who strives to create a safe and compassionate therapeutic space for her clients. With more than 8 years of clinical work experience in the community and hospital settings, Laura holds a Master of Psychology (Clinical) from the National University of Singapore and is a registered clinical psychologist with the Singapore Psychological Society (SPS). With an integrated and reflective approach to therapy, she practices CBT, schema therapy, compassionate focussed therapy and EMDR to help clients feel more empowered. Laura is passionate about working with clients with depression, anxiety, personality disorders and past trauma experiences. She also has broad experience in the area of maternal mental health and enjoys working with mothers to support them in their journey of pregnancy, childbirth and parenting. Having lived in Singapore with a diverse heritage herself, Laura understands cross cultural issues and is able to connect easily with people from all walks of life.

Working Hours:

The Victoria Clinic Consulting Suites: Mon, Tues & Wednesday (8-4)

Consult: $245

REGISTERED PSYCHOLOGIST (CLINICAL REGISTRAR)

Bernice is a Clinical Psychology Registrar with experience supporting young people and adults. She has a particular interest in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, trauma, problematic substance use, and difficulties with emotion regulation.

 Bernice works collaboratively with individuals to develop treatment plans personalised to their goals and circumstances, drawing on a range of evidence-based therapeutic approaches including Schema Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. 

Bernice is a proud Gunditjmara woman registered with the Australian Indigenous Psychologists Association. She is committed to providing a welcoming and culturally safe space grounded in respect, connection, and understanding to support and empower individuals in their healing. She prioritises creating a non-judgmental environment for individuals to explore their concerns and challenges at their own pace. 

Committed to lifelong learning and professional growth, Bernice values reflective practice and welcomes feedback from her clients to continually inform and improve her work.

Working hours:

Essendon: Tuesday & Thursday (10am-6pm) Monday & Friday (9am-5pm)

Consult: $245

REGISTERED PSYCHOLOGIST

Luke (he/him) is a registered psychologist. He takes a person-centred approach with his clients aimed at creating an environment where clients feel safe, supported, and accepted. Luke engages in an affirming and collaborative therapeutic relationship with his clients, engaging in an evidence-based and client tailor approach to map therapeutic interventions to client needs and goals. He can engage in several therapeutic practices including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Mindfulness skills towards client treatment.

Luke enjoys working across the lifespan, with particular interest supporting the mental health of adolescents and individuals in the LGBTIQA+ community. He has experience working with clients presenting with neurodiversity, depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, substance use disorder/addiction, and borderline and antisocial personality disorders.

Working Hours:

Werribee: Tues & Weds (2-8) & Thurs (7:30-3:30)
Consult: $245

REGISTERED PSYCHOLOGIST (CLINICAL REGISTRAR)

Elise is a psychologist and clinical psychology registrar committed to fostering genuine, meaningful connections with clients. She creates a warm and supportive therapeutic environment, working collaboratively to recognise and build on each person’s strengths. Elise tailors her approach to suit the unique needs of her clients, drawing on a range of evidence-based therapies including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Schema Therapy.

She works with children, adolescents, and adults across a range of presentations, including anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, substance use, emotion regulation difficulties, self-esteem issues, and interpersonal challenges. Elise maintains a strong commitment to ongoing professional development and reflective practice.reflection throughout her practice

Working Hours:

Essendon: Mon & Wed (9.30-6.30) & Fridays (8-4)

TVC: Tuesdays (8-4)

Consult: $245

REGISTERED PSYCHOLOGIST (CLINICAL REGISTRAR)

Danielle is a Clinical Psychology Registrar in the final stages of completing her Doctoral Degree. She is committed to delivering evidence-based, person-centred interventions that promote self-understanding, resilience and the achievement of individual goals.

She has practiced across public, private, community, and educational settings, and has experience working with clients across the lifespan. Danielle has supported individuals presenting with a broad range of difficulties, including anxiety and mood disorders, trauma-related presentations, personality disorders, and substance use difficulties, in both individual and group-based formats.

Her clinical practice is grounded in an integrative therapeutic framework, drawing on Schema therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI).

Danielle is dedicated to fostering a safe, collaborative and non-judgmental therapeutic environment. She places strong emphasis on authenticity, therapeutic alliance and client autonomy, working at a pace that supports sustainable and meaningful change.

Working Hours:

Essendon: Monday (9-6), Tuesday (2-8) & Wednesday (1:30-8)

Carlton: Thursday (9-6) and Friday (8-5)

Consult Fee: $245

REGISTERED PSYCHOLOGIST (CLINICAL REGISTRAR)

James is a warm and dedicated psychologist who is passionate about helping people understand and overcome complex mental health difficulties. He is committed to creating a supportive and compassionate space where clients can process their experiences while cultivating meaningful change on their own terms.

James has years of experience working in various public and private health settings with adults, children, young people and families. He has experience working with persistent mood disorders, anxiety, complex trauma, eating disorders, relationship difficulties, personality disorders and more. He uses Schema Therapy, ACT, CBT and DBT in his approach, guided by clients' needs. James has a strong interest in supporting individuals with complex trauma. His doctoral research focused on cultural influences on trauma, and he is committed to delivering culturally responsive, trauma-informed psychological services.  

 Working Hours:

Carlton: Monday & Wednesdays (9-6)

Essendon: Tuesdays & Thursdays (9-6)

Telehealth: Fridays (8-12)

Consult Fee: $245

REGISTERED PSYCHOLOGIST (CLINICAL REGISTRAR)

Tiffenee is a Registered Psychologist and Clinical Psychology Registrar. Tiffenee strives to ensure her clients are always treated with compassion, empathy, and authenticity, and works collaboratively with each individual to tailor treatment plans in accordance with their goals and lifestyles. Tiffenee employs techniques from a range of therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) and is undergoing training in Schema Therapy to assist clients in achieving their goals.

With experience in both the public and private health sectors, Tiffenee has had a wide range of experience working with individuals with a range of diagnoses, including ASD, ADHD, anxiety, dissociation, depression, psychosis, sleep difficulties and personality disorders, but has developed a passion for working with complex trauma. Tiffenee has experience working with individuals across the lifespan but finds particular enjoyment working with adolescents and adults.

Working Hours:

Essendon: Wednesday (9-6) & Fridays (8-5)

Telehealth: Thursdays (8-2; fortnightly)

Consult: $245

PROVISIONAL PSYCHOLOGIST

Ailish Ansell (she/her) is a Provisional Psychologist currently completing her 5+1 internship year after attaining a Master of Professional Psychology. She takes a collaborative, client-centred approach and strives to be neuroaffirming to create a warm, non-judgemental space where individuals feel supported to explore their experiences and work toward meaningful change. Ailish is committed to understanding each person’s unique context and tailoring evidence-based interventions to their needs and goals.

Ailish has experience working with children (including pre-school and school-aged clients), adolescents and adults in both private practice and hospital-based environments. She has experience working with a range of mental health difficulties including; anxiety, depression, challenges associated with neurodivergence, substance use, trauma, emotion regulation and interpersonal challenges. Drawing on Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Schema Therapy, Ailish is passionate about helping clients build insight, develop practical skills and achieve sustainable improvements in their wellbeing.

Working Hours:

TVC: Mondays (9-5)

Essendon: Weds (7-3) Thurs (8-2)

Consult: $150

REGISTERED PSYCHOLOGIST (CLINICAL REGISTRAR)

Gabriel is a Clinical Psychology Registrar who strives to create a safe and non-judgemental environment where people can feel understood and empowered to collaboratively work through the difficulties they are facing. In his practice Gabriel uses a warm, empathetic and client-centred approach to draw from evidence-based interventions including Schema Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Psychodynamic Therapy. Gabriel has an interest working with people who are experiencing a range of challenges including depression, anxiety, relationship/interpersonal difficulties, trauma, life transitions and addictions. Gabriel seeks to support people to better understand themselves in the pursuit of living their life in a way that aligns best with their values.

 Working Hours:

Essendon: Mondays (9-6) & Wednesdays (2-8)

Carlton: Tuesdays (9-6) & (every second) Friday (8-4)

Telehealth: Thursdays (8-2)

Consult: $245

REGISTERED PSYCHOLOGIST (CLINICAL REGISTRAR

Jess (she/her) is a Registered Psychologist and Clinical Psychology Registrar who works from a neuro-affirming and trauma-informed framework. She is person-centred and approaches each session in a thoughtful and individualised way. Jess is passionate about creating a safe and non-judgemental therapeutic space where individuals feel able to explore their experiences and work towards their goals. She values authenticity and is committed to fostering genuine and meaningful connections. 

Jess has experience working with a broad range of presentations across children, adolescents, and adults in both individual and group settings. This includes mood and anxiety disorders, trauma and trauma-related difficulties, gender questioning and gender diversity, neurodiversity, LGBTQIA+ individuals, interpersonal challenges, substance use, personality challenges and somatic concerns. She has worked across public, community, and educational settings, and draws on a range of evidence-based interventions including CBT, ACT, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, and Health Psychology. 

Jess is known for her warmth, empathy, collaborative style and her creative approach to therapy. Jess’s strengths are in working with neurodiversity, anxiety, trauma and gender diversity. When not at work, Jess enjoys reading fiction books and going camping. 

Working hours:

Essendon: Mon (8-5) & Tues (8-2)

Carlton: Weds & Thurs (8-5)

Telehealth: Fri (8-3)

Consult: $245

SENIOR ACCREDITED MENTAL HEALTH SOCIAL WORKER

Kawa (also known as Kaveh) is a compassionate clinician with over seven years’ experience supporting adults through anxiety, depression, trauma, and life challenges. He offers a calm, respectful, and non-judgemental space where clients can feel understood, supported, and safe to explore what is holding them back.

Kawa works with people experiencing a wide range of difficulties, including emotional overwhelm, relationship struggles, low self-esteem, the effects of past trauma, and ongoing stress. He has particular expertise in working with complex and developmental trauma, including experiences of childhood abuse or neglect, as well as sexual assault, domestic violence, and alcohol and other drug (AOD) concerns.

His work is grounded in attachment-informed, client-centred, and evidence-based approaches, drawing on therapies such as EMDR, Schema Therapy, ACT, DBT, MBT, Ego-State Therapy, and CBT. Therapy is always tailored to the individual, at a pace that feels safe and collaborative.

Kawa holds a Master of Social Work and is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker. He is also the published translator of Trauma and Recovery (2016), reflecting his commitment to making trauma-informed knowledge more accessible. He also offers counselling in English, Kurdish, Farsi, and Dari, and is dedicated to providing culturally sensitive and inclusive care.

Working Hours:

Carlton: Monday (8-3)

Eltham: Wednesday (8-5)

Consult: $280

REGISTERED PSYCHOLOGIST (CLINICAL REGISTRAR)

Liana is a registered Psychologist and Clinical Registrar. She brings experience working with individuals across the lifespan including children, adolescents and adults from diverse cultural and socio-economic backgrounds. Liana is committed to providing client-centred care and tailors treatment to meet each person’s unique needs, taking into account trauma history, personality and cultural context.

Liana has worked in both clinical settings and school environments, supporting clients with a variety of presentations, including emotional regulation difficulties, anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, as well as ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder. She draws on evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and Schema Therapy, integrating culturally sensitive and trauma-informed practices to provide individualised support and is passionate about helping clients build self-understanding, resilience and personal growth.

Liana values reflective practice and ongoing professional development and is actively developing her skills in Schema Therapy and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy to enhance her therapeutic work. While Liana has experience working across the lifespan, she has a particular interest in working with adolescents and adults and brings a trauma-informed lens to her work with a wide range of presentations.

In addition to therapy, Liana is trained in conducting cognitive and educational assessments to help individuals better understand their strengths and challenges and to identify strategies that can support their learning and development.

Liana aims to foster a collaborative therapeutic relationship in a non-judgmental and safe environment and support clients to create meaningful, lasting change in their lives.

Working hours:

Werribee: Mon & Tues (2-8), Weds (7:30-3), Thurs (7:30 -1:30)

Telehealth: Fri (8:30-4:30)

Consult: $245

REGISTERED PSYCHOLOGIST

Christian is a genuine, practical and caring psychologist with a master’s degree in professional psychology from Victoria University. His training is in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), however, Christian is always learning and expanding his knowledge to better support positive growth for his clients. Christian also has over a decade of experience volunteering within the drug and alcohol sector.

Over the past few years Christian has worked with a wide variety of mental health presentations including depression, anxiety, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), borderline personality disorder (BPD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Additionally, Christian has worked with a diverse array of nationalities, across all age groups and is experienced in conducting assessments, and providing therapeutic intervention for individuals and in groups.

Christian’s aim is to provide evidence-based, client-centred therapy that facilitates long lasting change. 

Working Hours:

Werribee: Mon (7:30-1:30), Tues & Thurs (2-8)

Consult: $245

SENIOR CLINICAL & FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGIST

Bonnie is a registered psychologist with endorsement in Clinical and Forensic Psychology, and is a certified Schema Therapist & supervisor with the ISST. Bonnie has worked with adults in hospital, community and private practice settings. She has experience working with a range of mental health conditions, substance use, anger, trauma, and attachment and interpersonal relationship difficulties. She is collaborative and trauma-informed in her approach, and is neuroaffirming and LGBTQIA+ friendly. Bonnie utilises a range of evidence-based approaches including Schema Therapy, EMDR, DBT, ACT and CBT; tailoring each person’s treatment to their individual needs, goals and preferences.  

Bonnie is an AHPRA endorsed supervisor.

Working hours: Bonnie is currently on extended leave & not taking referrals.

Consult: $280

COUPLES THERAPIST/HEAD OF RESEARCH

A trained therapist in Integrative Behavioural Couples Therapy (IBCT), one of the leading evidence-based therapies for couples, Gery is one of Australia’s top relationship researchers and experts in attachment theory. Working with some of the world’s leading researchers and therapists in romantic and family relationships. Gery is STIA’s research advisor.

Working hours:

Essendon: Thurs (8am-2pm)

Consult: $300

CONSULTANT PSYCHIATRIST

Specialising in assessment and holistic treatment for people suffering with eating disorders and/or trauma related mental illnesses, Dr Redston is a Fellow of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP) with advanced certification in psychotherapy and accreditation in Schema Therapy. Dr Redston works collaboratively with the team at STIA to help people live their best lives. Dr Redston is no longer taking on new patients.

Working hours:

Essendon: Tues (10-5)