The 5 Best Psychologists in Melbourne That’ll Help You Cope with Life
Finding a psychologist who actually helps you make progress can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Except that each wrong haystack is costing you $200 per session.
No one should be stuck seeing a psychologist who offers the same generic advice you could’ve found on a motivational poster at a discount store. Or worse, when you finally quit, they seem more relieved than you.
That’s why we’ve done the legwork for you, reviewing Melbourne’s best psychologists and talking to previous patients to find professionals who would make a difference.
Whether you’re dealing with burnout or family issues, the psychologists below could be exactly what you’re looking for.
How much does it cost to see a psychologist in Melbourne?
It costs at least $150 per session to see a psychologist in Melbourne. This is just an estimate. The final cost will depend on the type of psychologist, the number of sessions, and other factors.
1. MVS Psychology Group: Collins Street, Melbourne
Address: Suite 8 level 7/350 Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
Contact Details: +61370368795
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 9 PM
MVS Psychology Group stood out among the psychologists in Melbourne we reviewed for their expertise in supporting medical staff through trauma.
They offer Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP), which helps uncover unconscious conflicts from past events that might be driving anxiety or depression.
An emergency nurse we talked to told us she’d struggled with burnout and nightmares after responding to violent incidents. Through therapy at MVS, she began to understand why certain sounds or situations triggered her.
Over time, she learned to manage her emotions without feeling overwhelmed.
What we appreciate most is their focus on long-term change, not quick symptom relief
Their therapists focus on building emotional awareness and resilience that clients carry with them well beyond therapy.
We also love that they work alongside doctors at local hospitals, which allows care to be coordinated with their GP or specialist when needed.
That said, their 48-hour cancellation policy is quite strict. A few of their clients reported being charged for missed appointments due to unexpected emergencies they couldn’t anticipate.
They really care, and it shows in everything. Thank you guys!
“I came to MVS after a really tough time in my life. I’d been carrying trauma for years and honestly didn’t think therapy would make much difference. I’d tried before and it never felt like it helped. But this place was different.
From the first session I actually felt safe. My psychologist really understood trauma not just on a surface level but in a way that made me feel seen and not crazy for how I was reacting to things. They didn’t rush me or make me talk about things I wasn’t ready for, but somehow still helped me start to put the pieces together.
The whole clinic has this amazing feeling about it – white curtains, nice artwork, very curated space such a great space. Even walking in there I felt like I could breathe again. The reception team are just wonderful and so kind and never make you feel like just another appointment, which honestly means a lot when you’re struggling. I have to Say Eliza and Elena are the most caring reception staff I’ve ever met. Always offering me tea or coffee.
I’ve made more progress here than I ever thought possible. I sleep better, I’m less on edge, and I actually feel like I have my life back. Still got work to do, but for the first time it feels possible.
If you’re dealing with trauma or just feel stuck, I can’t recommend MVS Psychology enough to you honestly. They really care, and it shows in everything. Thank you guys!”
- Michigan Water Google Reviews
Has a warm, gentle approach
“I have seen psychologist Charlotte Arnold on a couple of ocassions. She has a warm, gentle approach yet seems to get a very good grasp on things quite quickly. I feel very comfortable opening up to her and trust her process. Reception staff are great also.”
- Surhey Tuck Google Reviews
2. Inner Eastern Psychology | Melbourne Psychologists
Address: 4 Erin St, Richmond VIC 3121, Australia
Contact Details: +61390881990
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Friday – 9 AM to 5 PM
When we were asking around for top psychologists in Melbourne, many we talked to said they immediately felt safe at Inner Eastern Psychology. With such a reputation, we just had to check them out.
When we looked into them, we immediately understood what patients meant. The therapy rooms are warm, quiet, and free of clinical coldness. We believe this makes opening up much easier for the patient.
Their work focuses on individual therapy but also includes family, parent, and couples support. Plus, they cover issues like anxiety, eating disorders, grief, and more.
What really impressed us, though, was their thorough matching process. They take an interest in their clients and find out about their concerns and preferences before matching them with someone.
One couple we talked to said they ended up with a psychologist who uses Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT). They said it helped them stop arguing in circles and start really listening to each other.
We also think it’s neat that Inner Eastern Psychology provide support letters after 3 consecutive appointments. This is helpful for work or study accommodations.
The only downside? They don’t offer court reports, so those who need psychological documentation for legal cases will need to look elsewhere.
Everything was smooth
“Everything was smooth, from finding the right psychologist to get my first appointment booked. The admin team took the time to listen carefully to my situation and make sure I was matched with someone who suited my needs.
I’m quite time-poor, so I really appreciated how proactive the team was in booking a few sessions ahead for me. It meant I didn’t have to worry about missing out on a spot, and it made the whole process much less stressful.
Admin team is genuinely supportive and organised. I feel well cared for every step of the way.”
- Chi ying Tse Google Reviews
Highly recommend this practice!
“Highly recommend this practice! The reception team was patient and thorough in answering all my questions. They were incredibly prompt in helping me find a psychologist, and I was able to see someone within a week. Their instructions were clear, and my psychologist has been fantastic. I’m very happy with the practice and grateful that my friend recommended it to me!
- Is good Weng ke Google Reviews
Really great psychology practice! The admin process was straightforward and well-organized, and the psychologist is experienced and professional. The rooms are lovely and comfortable, creating a welcoming environment for sessions. Everything was handled smoothly from start to finish, making the whole experience positive. Would definitely recommend to anyone looking for psychologist.”
- CHONGHIN SIO Google Reviews
3. Cova Psychology
Address: Suite 19/12 Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
Contact Details: +61396543557
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 8 PM
- Saturday – 9 AM to 5 PM
What immediately caught our attention about Cova Psychology is its inclusive treatment philosophy, which acknowledges neurodivergent-affirming practices.
This means they don’t try to “fix” autism or ADHD but rather help people work with their brain’s wiring.
One professional who’d struggled with ADHD shared that his psychologist at Cova helped him develop executive function strategies. These strategies helped transform his work performance within a few months.
We also appreciate that their team works with conditions such as pathological demand avoidance that require specialized expertise. They are also helpful for personality disorders like narcissism and bipolar disorder.
One client we spoke with had been bouncing between psychologists to address her borderline personality disorder. She told us that Cova actually understood the nuances of her condition and provided a treatment that really helped navigate her emotions.
The clinic primarily serves adults 18 and over, with limited spots for young people aged 13 to 18. But at least they offer online sessions, giving patients greater flexibility in how they access care.
I would highly recommend Cova Psychology
“I would highly recommend Cova Psychology. From my very first online enquiry they have been responsive, LGBT+ inclusive and in open communication about every step in the process. My therapist Chris has by far been the best therapist I’ve ever had, the location is convenient and the rooms are very comfortable.
- Dylan B Mitchell Google Reviews
I had a great experience with Cova.
I had a great experience with Cova. The team is professional, welcoming, and really takes the time to listen. The environment is calm and supportive, which made me feel comfortable from the start. I appreciate the thoughtful approach and the practical strategies that have helped me. Would definitely recommend to anyone looking for a reliable and caring psychology clinic.
4. Inner Melbourne Clinical Psychology
Address: 1/423 Little Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
Contact Details: +61393761958
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8 AM to 8 PM
- Saturday – 9 AM to 4 PM
Inner Melbourne Clinical Psychology actually walks the talk on therapeutic diversity. Their language accessibility makes them a top choice for Melbourne’s diverse population.
These psychologists speak English, Serbian, and Croatian. A Serbian-speaking client told us that processing anxiety in her first language made therapy exponentially more effective.
We also appreciate that these clinical psychologists analyze and tailor their patients’ treatment plans. A client dealing with childhood trauma told us her psychologist blended EMDR with internal family systems therapy to help her progress.
For couples, they offer emotion-focused therapy and systemic approaches. A few couples mentioned their sessions left them with tools to break patterns they’d been stuck in for years.
We also appreciate that they offer clinical supervision for fellow psychologists, which means their team is continually refining their skills and staying current with new research.
The only complaint we’ve heard is that they are quite slow at answering calls. A few people said they had to play phone tag for a few days before their initial appointment was set.
I highly recommend Inner Melbourne Psychology
“I’ve seen psychologists at both the Kensington & CBD locations and have had nothing but positive experiences at both. Seeing a psychologist can be a little bit daunting, but the staff at both clinics have made me feel valued and welcome, from the administrators, to the psychologists and practice owner. I highly recommend Inner Melbourne Psychology and have already referred other people their way.
- Jess Grierson Google Reviews
The resources provided to be really helpful in understanding
“I’ve found the resources provided to be really helpful in understanding my own situations and find ways to move forward positively.”
- Nell Casey Google Reviews
5. Foundation Psychology Melbourne
Address: Level 1/66 Whitehorse Rd, Deepdene VIC 3103, Australia
Contact Details: +61390392177
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday – 8:45 AM to 5:30 PM
- Wednesday & Thursday – 8:45 AM to 6:30 PM
- Friday – 9 AM to 5:30 PM
The first thing that stood out to us is that their clinical psychologists have completed 8-year PhD-level training. As a leading clinical psychology practice in Melbourne, we appreciate that they use evidence-based methods such as CBT and ACT.
Their work never feels formulaic, and we appreciate that they never lose sight of the fact that every person is unique.
One woman dealing with perinatal depression said her psychologist helped her understand not just her symptoms, but how becoming a parent again had shifted her relationships and daily life.
They provide care for individuals, teenagers, families, and children. Online psychology sessions are also available for greater flexibility.
That said, some of their clients mentioned it can be tricky to secure a video appointment, since they seem to be the go-to for many.
Additionally, their couple’s psychological therapy caught our attention. They use the Gottman Method, which is grounded in decades of research on what makes relationships last.
A couple we spoke to said this approach helped them to rekindle the relationship they once had.
The payment processing was smooth
“I went in for my assessment this year.
The staff attended to my multitude of questions before I was booked, with the level of detail I was looking for.
The scheduling was prompt in comparison to what I had heard about typical wait times for an assessment.
The payment processing was smooth, and allowed to be broken down per session.
The doctor/psychologist who oversaw my assessment was Dr. Lauren Hanegraaf.
The sessions were calm and productive. The doctor was friendly and helpful.
The report was thorough, and included many important components such as: assessment details, suggested workplace accommodations, recommendations for future help and resources. Most important was the summary, which was quite humanizing in my time of uncertainty and worry.
The clinic/doctor label their services as neuro-affirming, which I find to be accurate.
Should you need to find a quality clinic to manage your assessments, they will serve you well.”
- Taylor Greenall Google Reviews
Truly appreciate the effort to get me the help that would benefit me the most
“I was due to see Andrea. She called me prior to our initial appointment and we had chat about my specific requirements. She then kindly referred me to a psychologist who specializes in my specific concerns – she said she did not want to just through the motions with me for the sake of it but wanted to get me the help O really needed. I found her so honest and easy to talk to and truly appreciate the effort to get me the help that would benefit me the most.”
- Shan E Google Reviews