Hey, how are you? We really care to know.
Aly’s Place offers research-based counselling for couples, families and individuals.
When life gives us lemons...
...we can turn them into fresh lemonade together.
Whatever brings you here, I am sure you have special others in your life.
And sometimes these relationships instead of nurturing you can make you feel hurt, lonely and lost. This does not need to stay this way. We can help you navigate these challenges and learn how to build healthy, fulfilling relationships with yourself and others. In a completely non-judging, professional and caring environment, we will untangle together the situations and life stories that brought you to counselling.
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Aly, Registered Couples Therapist
Our Services
Individual Counselling​
In individual counselling we explore your personal journey and the challenges on your way. We can help you cope with a wide range of personal issues (including grief, trauma, depression and anxiety) and navigate you to a better place.​
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All our counsellors offer individual counselling.
Family and Parenting Counselling
Families are dynamic systems with many moving parts. At times, it can be tough to navigate difficult family events or to know how best to approach raising children. We can help you find an answer to this and many other questions.
We are a passionate team of professional, Masters-Level educated counsellors and psychotherapists, specialising in relationships and couples counselling.
We truly believe that happiness in life lies in healthy relationships with yourself and others. We treat each and every client as an individual with a unique journey and experience worth exploring.
Our role is to help you tell that story and find a way to get where you want to be next.
We can help you navigate these challenges and learn how to build healthy, fulfilling relationships with yourself and others.
In a completely non-judging, professional and caring environment, we will untangle together the situations and life stories that brought you to counselling.
Our Team
About Alyona
Hi, I am Alyona, or Aly for clients. My life journey so far has been a very unusual one and taught me many lessons - but most importantly, it showed me that the most treasured things in life are people we connect with. They are our strengths and our challenges.
I have not met a person who was unhappy in life if they had great relationships: family and friends. My life belief is the secret to happiness lies in healthy relationships: with yourself and others.
My Qualifications
I have a Masters Degree in Counselling and a Graduate Diploma in Psychosexual Therapy. I also hold a Diploma of Education (Postgraduate) and Bachelor of Arts with First Degree Honours.
Currently, I am pursuing a PhD in mental health and teach counselling at Monash University.
Further, I am a Clinical Supervisor and Level 3 Member of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA).
I speak three languages and spent most of my life outside of my home country. And most importantly, I am a mum and a wife.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
> Sexual and intimacy issues
> Couples relationships
> Misattributed paternity/parental discrepancy discoveries
> Interpersonal communication
> Emotions/feelings, trauma and affairs
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*** Please note there is a waitlist for new clients.***
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CLIENT DAYS: Mondays
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Registered with health funds to claim rebates: Bupa, Medibank, ARGH - Police Health Fund, Emergency Services Health, Phoenix Health, St Lukes Health, GMHBA and CUA Health (telehealth only), Teachers Union Health and Westfund.
About Priscilla
Hi, I’m Priscilla! I’m a counsellor that specialises in emotion regulation and communication. Prior to becoming a counsellor, I worked in HR and recruitment across the UK and Canada.
I believe the key to living a fulfilling and happy life is having high-quality relationships, including the relationship to self, and living in alignment with our values. I use an integrative approach that combines tools to help you get into your body and techniques to support your mental wellbeing.
I’m particularly interested in developmental trauma and working with the nervous system to regulate and heal. This brings greater resilience and deeply meaningful relationships.
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I love to get creative and prioritise play and rest. I’m also a mum of a beautiful and curious three-year-old boy.
My Qualifications
My qualifications include a Bachelor of Social Science, Diploma of Counselling, Certificate in Yoga Teaching and a Certificate in Somatic Attachment Therapy. I am also trained in the Gottman Couples Counselling Method and Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT).
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
> Couples relationships
> Interpersonal communication
> Emotion regulation
> Anxiety and stress
> Imposter syndrome
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CLIENT DAYS: Wednesdays, and Saturdays
About Lena
Hello! I’m Lena. I’ve lived across various countries in Europe and Asia and now call Australia my home. Having spent a significant part of my life away from my family and friends taught me to deeply value human connections and inspired me to help others to improve their relationships.
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I am warm, and friendly but also very analytical and straightforward. More than anything, I want you to feel comfortable and safe when working with me. In addition to couples counselling, I am interested in working with unhelpful coping mechanisms.
My Qualifications
​I have a Master of Counselling degree from Monash University and a degree in Communication.
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I have also undertaken further study in Individual and Couples Counselling, Gottman Couples Counselling and Emotion-Focused Couples Therapy.
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Like many of my colleagues, I am multilingual and speak several languages.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
> Couples relationships
> Interpersonal communication
> Emotions/feelings, affairs
> Substance use and unhelpful coping behaviours
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CLIENT DAYS: Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. Online available.
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Registered with health funds to claim rebates: Bupa
About Stephen
Hey, I am Stephen. A former teacher and an armed forces instructor, I understand the value of togetherness across most diverse settings.
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My passion is working with families and parenting couples. I also enjoy working with fathers and sons/daughters to help strengthen their bond.
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Some of my biggest assets are positivity, creativity and play. I believe in a caring but light-hearted approach to therapy – a journey that we can master together.
My Qualifications
I have a Master degree in Counselling and have undertaken further studies in Individual, Couples and Family Counselling, Gottman Couples Counselling, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
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I also worked with families, couples and patients at the Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
> Couples relationships
> Interpersonal communication
> Parent-child relationships
> Individuals at risk
CLIENT DAYS: Wednesdays. Online available.
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Registered with health funds to claim rebates: Bupa, ARGH - Police Health Fund, Emergency Services Health, Phoenix Health, St Lukes Health, GMHBA and CUA Health (telehealth only), Teachers Union Health and Westfund.
About Marsha
Hi! I’m Marsha.
Originally from Melbourne and having lived in various parts of Australia during my childhood, my family eventually settled in Canberra. Following university, I integrated my passions for people, culture, and travel, into a fulfilling career within the travel industry. This journey led me to move to the UK, where I explored much of Europe and the world, and three years in New Zealand, where I met my then-husband.
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At ALY’S PLACE I fulfill dual roles as Counsellor and administrator, pursuing my passion for making a positive impact on others' lives.
My most important role is as a solo-parent to two children, aged 10 and 13. During my downtime, I find joy in activities such as walking, kayaking, exploring new places, and savouring delightful culinary experiences with local food and wine on the Peninsula.
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My counselling approach is solutions-focused, aiming to restore calm, provide clarity, and offer mental and emotional support. I'm passionate about working with individuals, delving into areas such as women's issues, parenting skills, relationships, resilience & coping strategies, self-care, personal development, and the pursuit of life purpose.
My Qualifications
I hold a Bachelor of Management and a Diploma of Counselling, along with certificates in leadership, travel, and tourism.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
> Individual issues
> Women's issues
> Parenting
> Anxiety and stress
> Grief and loss
> Life transitions
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CLIENT DAYS: Wednesdays. Online available.
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About Kellie
Hey, I’m Kellie. I grew up in regional Victoria but then went to live in Washington D.C. for 30 years, just returning a few years ago. While abroad, I enjoyed working one-on-one with a variety of people from different backgrounds - which eventually led me to become a professional counsellor.
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I have a special interest in getting to the root cause of problems and particular empathy for those suffering with depression or loss and grief. I’m also eager to work with couples experiencing difficult transitions.
My Qualifications
I have a Master of Counselling and a Graduate Diploma in Counselling. Further, I am a Level 2 registered counsellor with the Australian Counselling Association and a member of the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
> Couples relationships
> Substance use and dependency
> Anxiety (especially, social anxiety) and depression
> Difficult life transitions, grief and loss
> ADHD and neurodiversity
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CLIENT DAYS: Thursdays
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Registered with health funds to claim rebates: Bupa, ARGH - Police Health Fund, Emergency Services Health, Phoenix Health, St Lukes Health, GMHBA and CUA Health (telehealth only), Teachers Union Health and Westfund.
About Charlie
Hey y’all! I am Charlie. My pronouns are she/her. I was born and raised in Taiwan, but I have lived in the States for a few years before settling down in Australia.
Growing up, I often felt isolated and had to work hard to become resilient, open-minded, and empathetic as I am now.
Counselling and counselling diverse clients in particular, to me, is all about empowerment and advocacy while providing a safe space for you to speak your mind without the fear of being judged. I am here to help you explore and make sense of your unique experiences.
My Qualifications
I hold a Master degree in counselling from Monash University and have a background in biology and sociology. I have also undertaken further study in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and (Trauma-informed) Emotion-Focused Individual Therapy.
I speak Mandarin and English fluently.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
> Person-centered counselling
> Mandarin-speaking counselling
> Cultural diversity
> Queer/LGBTIQA+ experiences
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CLIENT DAYS: Thursdays
About An An
Hi, I'm An An!
I am from Singapore and I moved to Australia to pursue my counselling studies. When working with clients, my main priority is creating a safe space and keeping an open mind to your experiences.
I am empathetic and I hope to keep our sessions light-hearted while getting to know you. Outside of being a counsellor, I enjoy travelling and exploring new places, trying new foods, and meeting people from different cultures.
My Qualifications
I hold a Bachelor of Psychology with honours and I am currently pursuing my Master of Counselling at Monash University.
I speak Mandarin and English fluently.​
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AREAS OF EXPERTISE
> Couples relationships
> Young Couples relationships
> Youth counselling (age 12+)
> Emotions/feelings, trauma and affairs
> Improving communication
> Grief
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CLIENT DAYS: Thursdays. Online available.
About Carmen
Hey, I'm Carmen!
Originating from the culturally diverse country, Malaysia, I was given an opportunity by the Australian Government to move to Melbourne to pursue my Counselling studies.
My professional journey includes experiences as a humanitarian case worker, addressing issues of sexual and gender-based violence, and as a mental health recovery coach for teenagers and young adults dealing with complex trauma, eating disorders, and personality disorders.
Working with diverse communities has shown me the common thread of the profound impact of relationships on mental health. I'm passionate about helping others navigate their life's journey by focusing on improving relationships, ultimately enhancing overall life quality.
In our sessions, you can expect an open-minded, curious, and empathetic approach, creating a safe space for you to share comfortably. I am committed to doing my best and supporting your well-being. Beyond work, I find joy in singing, traveling, and spending quality time with loved ones.
My Qualifications
I hold a Bachelor of Psychology with Honours and I am currently pursuing my Master of Counselling at Monash University.
​I speak Cantonese and English fluently.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
> Couples relationships
> Individual issues
> Child counselling (age 5+)
> Creative therapies - dance, art, and play
> Life transitions
> Trauma
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CLIENT DAYS: Tuesdays and Fridays. Online available.
About Amy
Hi, I’m Amy!
I grew up on the East Coast and spent my 20's travelling and learning, living in the UK and Sydney, before calling Melbourne home. I am passionate about working with people because I believe that our relationships, both with ourselves and others, enrich our lives. When working with clients, I lead with empathy and curiosity to create a safe space for exploring their inner world and vulnerabilities.
I am interested in working with individuals, couples and furthering my knowledge in Somatic, Art, and Psychosexual Therapy.
Personally, I am passionate about travel, yoga and the creative arts, having trained as a dancer and actor prior to counselling.
My Qualifications
My qualifications include a Bachelor of Arts, Graduate Diploma in Psychology and I am currently completing my Master of Counselling at Monash University. I have also completed Foundations of Intimacy. ​
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
> Couples relationships
> Intimacy and sexuality
> Interpersonal communication
> Emotions/feelings, trauma and affairs
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​CLIENT DAYS: Tuesdays and Wednesdays
About Van
Hi, I’m Van.
I am originally from London, England. I moved to the Mornington Peninsula two years ago. Before I became a counsellor, I was a history teacher.
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My passion lies in helping individuals and couples navigate their emotions and find inner peace, with a focus on creating a safe, supportive environment. I believe that you do not have to control your thoughts; rather, it is about not allowing them to control you. I strive to create a light and warm atmosphere in counselling, making it a welcoming space for exploration and healing.
When I am not in the counselling space, I am at the beach enjoying the beauty of the Peninsula with my two children.
My Qualifications
I have a Graduate Diploma of Counselling and I am currently pursuing my Master of Counselling at the University of Canberra. I am trained in Emotion-Focused therapy and Gottman Couples Counselling. I also hold a Master of Arts in British History, a Bachelor of Arts with Honours, and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
> Couples relationships
> Emotions/feelings, trauma
> Substance use and unhelpful coping behaviours
> Stress management
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​CLIENT DAYS: Mondays and Tuesdays
About Elijah
Hello! I am Elijhanne, or Elijah for clients.
I have recently moved to Australia from South Africa to be with family. My passion for working with people has always been my drive. I am a qualified and experienced Social Worker.
For the first part of my career, I worked as a Somatologist where I was able to transform the lives of individuals holistically through touch and self-care. Becoming a mother led me to pursue studies in social work, where I worked in education and health settings, as an adoption social worker. Families and relationships are important. Collaborating with people brings me joy, especially being able to see and be a part of their journey of restoration.
My counselling encompasses a strengths-based, solution focused and people-centred approach. We all have innate abilities to solve our challenges, however we can benefit from safe and supportive guidance. Relationships go through intense seasons, but I choose to look at them with hope and an opportunity for something
beautiful to grow even when faced with difficulties.
My Qualifications
My qualifications include a Bachelor of Social Work, as well as a Diploma in Holistic and Natural Therapies and a Diploma in Health and Skincare Therapy. I am trained in Emotion-Focused therapy and Gottman Couples Counselling.
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AREAS OF EXPERTISE
> Couples relationships
> Interpersonal communication
> Parent-child relationships
> Grief and loss
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​CLIENT DAYS: Thursdays and Fridays
Fees
FEES -
$160 for 60-minute individual sessions*
$260 for 90-minute couples sessions* $330 for 90-minute family (2+ persons) sessions*
In complex cases, fees may differ. Your therapist will advise you accordingly.
*Processing fees apply to all debit/credit card transactions.
FEES - Alyona (Lead Counsellor)
$220 for 60-minute individual sessions*
$330 for 90-minute couples sessions*
Private health insurance rebates are available with select counsellors.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS
$50 surcharge applies for sessions that run beyond 7pm, on Saturdays, public holidays and during the Xmas break*
Sessions are face-to-face/online
If you experience financial hardship, please reach out and we can work something out.
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