DIRECTOR / SENIOR CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST

Rita is the founder and 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) and an accredited EMDR Practitioner (EMDRAA).

Working hours:
Essendon - Mon, Tues & Thurs (9-5)

Consult Fee: $300

SENIOR CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST/RESEARCH COORDINATOR

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 - Tuesday 9-5

Essendon- Thursday 9-5 and Friday 8-5

Telehealth - Wednesday 8-1

Consult: $265

SENIOR FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGIST

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 ACT, CBT and Mindfulness to help her clients achieve their goals in therapy. Sarah has an interest in perinatal mental health.

Working Hours:

Telehealth- Tuesdays 8-4

Carlton: Mondays 8-4

Essendon: Wednesday 8-3

Consult: $265

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. Katina’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. *Katrina has immediate availability*

CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST / GROUP & ASSESSMENT COORDINATOR

Jessica is a warm and empathetic Clinical Psychologist that works from and evidence-based framework, utilising a range of therapeutic modalities, including Schema Therapy, CBT, EMDR and DBT skills. Jessica works collaboratively with individuals in both individual and group therapy tailoring treatment to the needs of each individual. Jessica is trained in assessment and diagnosis. She is passionate about working with individuals across the lifespan, providing treatment for mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, ASD, complex trauma, eating disorders, and personality disorders. Jessica is also responsible for group and assessment coordination. Jessica is Undergoing Schema Therapy Certification in Group Schema Therapy.

Working hours:
Essendon: Mon (2pm-8pm), Tue-Wed (7am-2pm)

Telehealth: Thursdays 7-2pm

Consult: $255

PSYCHOLOGIST (CLINICAL REGISTRAR)

Bernice is a psychologist and Clinical Psychology Registrar. She fosters a safe and non-judgemental environment and works collaboratively with individuals to develop a tailored treatment plan. Bernice recognises it takes time to build rapport and trust, so works to her clients’ pace to build strong therapeutic relationships.

Bernice draws upon a range of evidence-based therapy modalities including CBT, ACT, DBT, Schema Therapy, EMDR, mindfulness and self-compassion.

Bernice has experience working with young people and adults. She strives to provide a culturally safe and LGBTQIA+ friendly space. Bernice has an interest in working with clients experiencing anxiety and mood disorders, trauma, substance use, personality disorders, and offending behaviour.

Working hours:

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

Consult: $240

SENIOR CLINICAL PYCHOLOGIST/CLINICAL LEAD

Dr Jennifer Baxter (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 strives to create a safe, judgement free space in which individuals feel comfortable to share and explore their experiences. Jennifer is passionate about understanding her clients and providing an environment in which they can work together to improve or overcome whatever difficulties they are facing.

Jennifer has a special interest working with autistic individuals, and has a wealth of experience providing assessment and helping clients with a range of mental health difficulties, including; OCD, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, sexual dysfunction, panic disorder, phobias, self-harm and suicidality. She has worked with individuals of all ages and is most passionate about working with adolescents. Jennifer uses a mix of evidence-based treatments, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Schema Therapy, Mindfulness, Trauma Focused Therapy and more.

Working Hours:

TVC: Monday - Wednesday 9-5

Essendon: Thursday 8-4

Telehealth: Fridays 1-5

Consult Fee: $265

REGISTERED PSYCHOLOGIST (CLINICAL REGISTRAR)

Shameta adopts a warm, empathetic, and collaborative approach to her practice. As a Clinical Psychology Registrar, she values providing clients with a non-judgemental space to feel accepted, understood, and valued to reduce distress and ease the recovery process. Shameta applies a scientist-practitioner approach to her practice by drawing upon a range of current evidence-based treatment and research. Her practice integrates elements from various therapies including CBT, ACT, DBT, Schema Therapy, EMDR and Mindfulness. She tailors treatment to suit clients’ individual needs, goals, and presentations with the aim of providing and prioritising person-centred care. Shameta has gained clinical experience working across various healthcare settings including private practices, private hospitals, and public hospitals. Her compassionate approach has allowed her to create strong therapeutic alliances with her clients when working with diverse populations and mental health concerns. Shameta is involved in the specialist inpatient programs at The Victoria Clinic.

Working Hours:

TVC Inpatient Programs: Thurs & Fridays (9-5)

Consult Fees: $240

COUNSELLOR/ACCREDITED MENTAL HEALTH SOCIAL WORKER

Lauren applies an empathetic, non-judgemental approach to therapy. As an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, she is committed to working alongside clients to draw out their strengths, whilst ensuring that they feel safe, heard and in charge of their own narrative. Having worked in a variety of settings, including hospitals, family violence services, EAP and Youth Justice, Lauren’s practice is holistic, and client centred. Lauren has supported people across the lifespan with anxiety, depression, trauma, offending behaviours, grief, shame, relationship issues, and personality disorders. She integrates a blend of evidence-based treatment modalities, including Schema Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), and Narrative Therapy. Lauren uses an attachment lens to empower clients to explore their relational dynamics and achieve post-traumatic growth. She welcomes clients from all backgrounds and is an LGBTQI+ friendly clinician.

Working Hours:

Essendon: Mon 8am - 4pm; Tues & Wed (10am - 6pm),

Telehealth: Thursday 8am-4pm

Consult Fee: $240

REGISTERED PSYCHOLOGIST (CLINCAL REGISTRAR)

Tegan is a psychologist and clinical psychology registrar. 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.

Working hours:

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

Consult: $240

SENIOR PSYCHOLOGIST

Bonnie is a registered psychologist with endorsement in Forensic Psychology, and a certified Schema Therapist at the Advanced level. Bonnie has worked with adults in hospital, community and private practice settings utilising schema therapy, cognitive-behavioural therapy and acceptance and mindfulness-based approaches, tailored to each client’s needs, goals, and preferences. She has experience working with a range of mental health conditions, substance use, anger, trauma, and attachment and interpersonal relationship difficulties. Bonnie is an AHPRA endorsed supervisor. Bonnie utilises Schema Therapy, EMDR, DBT and CBT to her clinical approach.

Working hours:

Consult: $265

SENIOR PSYCHOLOGIST

Kylee has 15 years of experience counselling people from diverse backgrounds with a broad range of psychological issues. With experience working with anxiety, depression, isolation, grief, relationship discord, self-esteem, work stress and trauma response – Kylee is warm, direct and collaborative. Working with clients at their own pace, Kylee develops treatment plans anchored in realistic and achievable outcomes. Kylee is undergoing Individual Schema Therapy certification at the standard level.

Working hours:
Carlton - Wed (8am-5pm)

Telehealth: Mon (8am-5pm)

Consult: $240

COUPLES THERAPIST

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: $280

SENIOR CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST

Mat takes a collaborative approach to therapy, working with clients struggling with body image concerns, problematic eating, low self-worth, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, perfectionism, psychosis, and difficulty with long-standing emotional and behavioural difficulties .). Mat is a certified Schema Therapist at the Advanced level , EMDR trained practitioner and a board approved supervisor. Mat works with people from all walks of life and is an LGBTIQ friendly psychologist.

Working hours:
Essendon: Friday and Sat (8am-2pm).

Consult Fee: $265

CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST /CLINICAL COORDINATOR

As a Clinical Psychologist, Rose takes a supportive, compassionate and person-centred approach to working with her clients. Rose employs a variety of evidence-based techniques, including Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectal Behaviour Therapy, EMDR and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. In addition to individual therapy, Rose is also involved in the delivery of group therapy at STIA and inpatient programs at The Victoria Clinic.

Working hours:
Currently on Extended Leave

Consult: $255

PROVISIONAL PSYCHOLOGIST

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. Laura has recently moved to Melbourne and as part of her transition process, she will be temporarily practising as a provisional psychologist before obtaining general registration.

*Laura has immediate availability*

Working Hours:

TVC Consulting Suites: Tues 8.30-4.30

TVC Inpatient Program: Mon & Wed 8.30-4.30

Consult: $150

DOCTORAL CANDIDATE/ALCOHOL & DRUG COUNSELLOR

Nathan Akoka is an AOD Counsellor and in the final stages of his doctoral candidature in Clinical and Forensic Psychology program at Swinburne University. He is well-versed in a range of therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behavorial Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Schema Therapy. His approach is client-centred, empathetic, and tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. Nathan has years of experience working across both private and public sectors in Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) services, where he has provided individual counselling, group facilitation, and comprehensive assessments. Due to his own lived experience of overcoming addiction and being in recovery, Nathan has a keen interest in supporting others in their journeys and fostering a sense of hope. Currently, Nathan serves as a Youth AOD Worker at YSAS, supporting young people aged 12-25 during their residential withdrawal. Nathan has completed rotations within acute inpatient forensic hospital wards, providing assessment and intervention to forensic patients. He has also co-facilitated DBT Comprehensive programs and provided individual DBT sessions. With a strong interest in personality disorder and substance use, Nathan’s doctoral thesis focuses on dimensional models of assessing personality dysfunction in substance use treatment settings and understanding how schema therapy constructs may map onto novel personality assessment tools.

Working Hours:

Essendon/TVC - Thurs/Fridays (9-5)

Consult Fee: $200

INTEGRATIVE PSYCHOTHERAPIST AND CLINICAL COUNSELLOR

Joy has one guiding philosophy to her care, “what is in the way, is the way”. She has used this philosophy to guide her work in public and private mental health for over 7 years. Her extensive experience working with a wide range of complex mental health issues including trauma, attachment disturbances and neurodivergence continually deepens her passion to help guide people towards healing. 

She not only draws from Schema Therapy, but also EMDR, DBT, and Somatic approaches in her practice. Joy is undergoing the Group Schema Therapy certification.

Working Hours:

TVC: Mon, Tues & Thurs (9-5)

Consult: $240

SENIOR CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST

Working mainly with young people and couples, Tracy uses a range of approaches including schema therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), Eye-Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), and mindfulness-based approaches. Tracy has extensive training in meditation and provides training on mindfulness and self-compassion. Tracy is a registered supervisor and a Schema Therapy certification candidate at the Advanced level.

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

Telehealth - Wednesday (8am-2pm).

Consult: $265

CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST

Jonathan is a clinical psychologist who is passionate about helping people understand and overcome complex challenges in their lives. He has worked in public mental health and private practice with children, adolescents, adults and families for several years. He has a special interest in the treatment of complex trauma including the use of EMDR (Eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing), schema therapy and mindfulness. He works holistically and understands the importance of placing mental health disorders and problems in people’s social, personal and political context. He has supported people with anxiety and depression, trauma and PTSD, disordered eating and body image issues, relationship difficulties, and personality disorders. He has significant experience working with individuals on the Autism spectrum and endeavours to be neuro-affirmative in his practice. Jonathan is working towards certification as a schema therapist at the standard level. He has completed Basic Training in EMDR and is working towards certification with EMDRAA.

Working hours:
Essendon - Thurs (2pm-8pm)

Consult: $255

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 Undergoing Schema Therapy Certification at the Advanced Level and also utilises EMDR therapy in her clinical approach.

Working hours:
Tuesday (Eltham onsite) 8.30 to 4pm

Friday (Telehealth) 9am to 3.30pm

Consult Fee: $255

CONSULT 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 - Tuesdays (10-5)

PROVISIONAL PSYCHOLOGIST

Ailish is a dedicated and compassionate Provisional Psychologist, who strives to foster a supportive and collaborative environment that empowers clients to achieve their psychological goals. With a Master of Professional Psychology from the Institute of Social Neuroscience, Ailish is currently completing her 5+1 internship year.

Ailish has experience working with individuals across the lifespan, within both community and private practice settings. She has a keen interest in complex mental health issues, and is committed to providing evidence-based treatment to support individuals in overcoming mental health challenges.

Working Hours:

TVC: Mondays (9-5)

Essendon: Thurs (8-2)

Consult: $150