Melbourne Psychology and Counselling

Psychology and Counselling is a diverse field that consists of numerous philosophies and theories about how to work with people. We believe in a humanistic and relational approach since most people find interpersonal warmth and trust to be a key component to facilitate therapeutic change. However, this is often not enough to sustain change in an individual.

Cognitive and behavioural therapy

A mixture of both cognitive and behavioural strategies are required to address a variety of psychological problems. Such strategies are in particular helpful for symptoms or disorders involving anxiety, depression, and trauma. This involves discovering problematic thought processes that underlay symptoms and correcting them to reflect a more reasonable way of thinking. Some clients benefit from longer-term therapy involving the discovery of dynamic themes that have developed through attachment problems in childhood or during their adolesces. Once uncovered it is a long journey to uproot the underlying issue but extremely rewarding on completion.

With each client we see, we strive to facilitate a level of improved self-understanding into their nature, as well as how they interact with others. Without such insight, change is often temporary, if not altogether elusive. Our main aim is to achieve change that has a long-lasting and sustainable impact on the client’s world and all that surrounds it.

How do I know if I need to see a psychologist?’

A common question as a psychologist we regularly get asked is ‘how do I know if I need to see a psychologist?’ It is a good question and one that should be answered with respect and integrity. Psychology and Counselling fluctuates between being a science and an art, and this means it can be extremely subjective. The best way to know when someone would benefit from seeing a psychologist is when signs and symptoms of problems like anxiety, depression, or trauma begin to interfere with day-to-day functioning. It is recommended to seek help when relationships, friendships, and work-life become too hard because symptoms are getting in the way. Often people report that they can’t manage their anger anymore, or that they can’t focus at work, or that they no longer get enjoyment out of their usual activities. These are just some of the reasons why seeking help may be of benefit.

Melbourne Psychology and Counselling treatments

Jeff Edmonds - Melbourne Psychologist and Counsellor

Jeff Edmonds, Psy.D.

With years of clinical experience working as a Psychologist in America and Australia, Jeff Edmonds draws upon his extensive expertise of working with clients from all walks of life. As a clinical psychologist he is trained to reduce symptoms and alleviate distress using a variety of therapeutic techniques. Most of the adults he sees struggle with symptoms including depression, anxiety, trauma, parenting difficulties, and relationship distress. Most of the children and adolescents he sees struggle with symptoms including Autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, and problems with anxiety. Some examples of the practical application of his skills include giving talks to schools and businesses regarding anxiety and work-place stress management. His clinical experiences include inpatient and office-based psychological intervention, emergency department intervention, and school and home-based counselling services.

Jeff is a Registered Clinical Psychologist (Licence #PSY0001130089) and received a B.A. in Psychology and a B.M in Music Composition from Michigan State University (1999), and a Doctorate of Psychology (Psy.D.) from the California School of Professional Psychology-San Diego (2007).

Apurva Nargundkar - Melbourne Psychology and Counselling

Apurva Nargundkar, MProfPsych, MAPS

Apurva is a Registered Psychologist who provides psychological support and guidance for individuals, families and organisations spanning from children to adults. Her work with LGBTQIA+ and gender diverse clients has covered various issues such as self-acceptance and exploration, family acceptance, identity, transitioning, and social difficulties. Apurva comes from a multi-cultural background, making her an exemplary person to understand issues such as cultural integration and “culture shock”, language barriers, and social acceptance. Her skills go beyond just psychology, she is fluent in three languages (English, Hindi and Marathi) and can carry out sessions in any of the three languages (if desired). Apurva’s style as a counsellor is respectful, calm and compassionate. She strives to offer a safe and judgement-free space to help clients develop a deeper understanding of themselves on their quest to self-discovery.

Apurva has a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Psychology from The University of Melbourne, and a Postgraduate Diploma and Master’s Degree in Psychology from Monash University.

Danielle de Guara, BA(Hons)MPsych, MAPS

Danielle is a registered Counselling Psychologist and has worked in private practice and the community sector for over 12 years. As a therapist, Danielle is warm, compassionate and supportive. Her focus is to fully understand people’s lives from their unique perspective and to help them gain clarity to create meaningful balanced lives.

Danielle is pluralistic in approach, meaning she draws on a diverse range of evidence-based psychological approaches in her treatment. She has trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Schema Therapy and also draws on other frameworks to inform her approach. She has experience across a diverse range of clinical presentations including depression (including postnatal), anxiety, relationship difficulties, self-esteem, workplace issues, body concerns, sleep, and existential concerns.

In addition to her training in Counselling Psychology, Danielle is currently completing her Masters in Clinical Psychology, and previously completed a Masters degree in Organisational Psychology.