Psychotherapy & Counselling for Teens and Adults in Melbourne

At True Self Space, we offer compassionate, evidence-informed mental health counselling and psychotherapy for adolescents and adults in Templestowe and Melbourne’s north-east suburbs. Whether you are seeking psychotherapy in Templestowe, local counselling services, or a trusted counsellor, we provide a safe and respectful space to explore your emotions, thoughts, and personal growth.

We provide mental health counselling and psychotherapy for adolescents and adults in Melbourne, offering a compassionate approach to mental health, and creating a safe space to explore emotions, thoughts and behaviours.

Counselling with Melanie focuses deeply on building a strong therapeutic relationship, and creating a collaborative environment that is rooted in curiosity and compassion. We go beyond the surface, guiding you to connect with, understand and foster a more authentic relationship with your True Self. Melanie specialises in relational therapy and Internal Family Systems (IFS) Psychotherapy.

Our Services

About Melanie Pontikis

Melanie Pontikis is a PACFA and IFS registered psychotherapist with a trauma-informed, relational approach. She provides a safe and supportive space where clients feel seen, heard, and understood. Melanie’s work integrates:

Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy
Relational and attachment-based frameworks
Trauma-informed and client-centred care
Inclusive, LGBTQIA+ affirming practice

Sessions are offered in person at our private practice in Templestowe and online.

Templestowe Counsellor Specialising in IFS Therapy

About Me

Counselling Services in Templestowe

Counselling for Adolescents (Ages 12–18)

As a trusted Templestowe counsellor, Melanie supports teens through anxiety, identity exploration, peer relationships, and academic stress. Sessions focus on emotional regulation, resilience, and empowerment tailored to developmental needs.

Psychotherapy for Adults

Melanie provides counselling in Templestowe for adults navigating anxiety, self-doubt, trauma, relationship difficulties, perfectionism, internal conflict, or major life changes. Her sessions support clients to develop insight, build self-compassion, and gain clarity around identity, values, and the direction they want to move in.

Our Therapy Approach

Online and In-Person Therapy in Templestowe

We offer:

In-person therapy in Templestowe
Telehealth sessions available across Melbourne and beyond

Whether you prefer face-to-face support or the flexibility of online counselling, we create a welcoming space tailored to your unique needs. We serve clients from Templestowe and nearby suburbs such as Doncaster, Templestowe Lower, Doncaster East, Bulleen, Lower Plenty, and Warrandyte.

Get Started with a 15-Minute Consult

No referral is needed to begin. Book your free 15-minute consultation to discuss your concerns, goals, and whether True Self Space is the right fit for you.

Do I need a referral?
No referral is required. You can book directly with us.

Are Medicare rebates available?
We currently operate as a privately billing service. Please contact us to discuss session fees.

Is this a crisis service?
No. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 000 or contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.

What to Expect in Your First Therapy Session

In your first session, you’ll be welcomed into a calm, supportive space. We’ll go over confidentiality, talk through what brings you to therapy, and explore whatever feels most present whether that’s anxiety, relationships, or just feeling stuck. There’s no pressure to have the perfect words. Therapy is a gentle, collaborative process where you’re supported to feel seen and understood.

After the session, we’ll reflect on how it felt and discuss next steps, including how often you’d like to meet. You're welcome to bring questions or simply come as you are. For more details, see our blog post: Here's a Breakdown of What a First Session Might Look Like.”

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