Therapy to Open New Doors

Naomi is passionate about helping people uncover and address the unhelpful thought and behaviour patterns that hold them back from living a full and meaningful life. To assist clients in clarifying their personal values and goals, while identifying barriers and building on existing strengths, Naomi uses the following: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.  With a Masters degree in Psychology (Clinical), Naomi’s career has spanned hospital, forensic, government and community settings. In addition to private practice, Naomi provides services within Victoria Police. The well-being of same-sex attracted youth has been an area of research that Naomi has been published in, and she is experienced working with individuals identifying as LGBTIQA+, or who are questioning their sexuality.

Areas of experience and special interest include low mood and anxiety issues such as phobias, adjustment to difficult life events such as health diagnosis and illness, management of chronic pain, health behaviour change including weight loss and smoking cessation, sexual and gender identity issues, anger and stress management, and assertiveness training.

I believe the struggles we face (despite the incredible suffering we feel) can be an opportunity to clarify who we are, see things anew and grow into a wiser version of ourselves. Across the last ten years as a psychologist (in prison, community, hospital, remote and private settings), I have been committed and honoured to journey with clients using evidence-based practices as a compass for self-discovery. I aim to offer reflections and skills that can help make your next step more conscious and consistent with your deepest values. I am curious and motivated to explore and enhance your well-being across multiple aspects of life, including mood, sleep, diet, work, social, creative, and spiritual, as I believe all areas are connected and contribute to holistic well-being. I believe the real work of a therapist is to empower you with self-awareness and skills that allow you to create a vital and enriching life far beyond the therapy space, and this is my intention for you. 

Areas of experience and special interest include low mood, worry and anxiety issues, working with the LGBTIQA+ community, gender identity issues,  perinatal mental health (fertility issues, during pregnancy, challenging births, and during the post-natal period), working with young adults clarifying their independence and identity, adjustment to difficult life events such as health diagnosis, illness and loss, health behaviour change, anger and stress management, relationship issues and Borderline Personality Disorder and traits.  Melissa is also member of the Antenatal and Postnatal Psychology Network.