A safe space to discover what you really want in life and love

Counsellor wearing a light blazer and matching blue outfit sitting on a stool, smiling.

Hi, I’m Vanessa Wylie, a Counsellor dedicated to supporting individuals and couples through life’s pivotal transitions. If you are experiencing relationship struggles, are navigating change, or feeling stuck and unsure where to turn, I can help.

I offer sessions in South Yarra, Toorak and online. My approach is warm, down-to-earth, and focused on helping you feel heard, understood and empowered to move forward.

Areas of specialisation include:

Relationship challenges

Self-worth and identity rebuilding

Healing the imprint of childhood trauma

Managing anxiety, work-related stress, family conflict, retirement, and major life transitions

Rediscovering your authentic self

Grief, loss, and major transitions

Navigating ageing, shifting body image, and health changes

Stronger relationships. Deeper connection. A more fulfilling life.

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Feeling stuck or unsure of what comes next? Whether you’re navigating a stagnant relationship, coping with betrayal, or simply feeling disconnected from who you are, you don’t have to face it alone. Maybe you’re craving deeper connection, a renewed sense of purpose, or just want to rediscover yourself.

Life can feel overwhelming, especially when you’ve spent years prioritising others. But it's never too late to take that next step toward a more fulfilling life. Whether you’re looking to strengthen your relationship or reconnect with yourself, with the right support, you can create the life and connections you’ve been longing for.

“Your story is still unfolding, and a beautiful new chapter awaits.”

Vanessa Wylie

Vanessa Wylie

After a rewarding corporate career, becoming a parent was a life-changing experience that inspired me to rethink my path. My journey into wellbeing began over 20-years ago, working with Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities, and later writing life stories with older adults. These diverse experiences, along with honest conversations and meaningful relationships, set me on the path to completing a Master of Counselling.

Since then, I’ve had the privilege of supporting others in many ways, from working with an esteemed University developing and assessing mental health programs for aged-care residents, guiding young mums and their babies, and general counselling for adults with life challenges such as grief, anxiety, and relationship struggles.

These experiences taught me a fundamental truth: healthy, respectful relationships, both with yourself and others, are at the heart of wellbeing. As a counselling therapist, I work with adults at a crossroads in their lives, helping them make sense of themselves and the world around them. Together, we explore the connection between mind, body, spirit, and environment, with the purpose of clarifying confusion, fostering growth, and creating space for authentic, trusting relationships.

Alongside my evidence-based training, I bring my own life experience. I’ve been with my partner for 30 years and we’ve raised children who are now adults. Like many couples, we’ve navigated our share of challenges, and more recently, the transition into empty nesting. I understand first-hand how complex, vulnerable, and rewarding relationships can be.e.

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Therapy that fits your life

I offer both in-person and Telehealth sessions, making it easy to fit counselling into your schedule. Whether you’re seeking individual therapy or couples counselling, this is your opportunity to take the first step toward the future you deserve.

A person holding their hands together, engaged in a conversation with a therapist or counselor in a cozy office setting.

Individual Counselling

In-person and Telehealth

$145

Two people sitting and holding hands, one wearing a denim jacket and the other in dark clothing, in a dimly lit setting.

Couples/ Marriage Counselling

In-person and Telehealth

$225

A warm and supportive approach.

Clients describe me as warm, approachable, and easy to connect with. I’m here to listen to your story, explore what’s working and what’s not, and help you find clarity. Together, we’ll work on building resilience, improving relationships, and rediscovering who you are, so you can live a life that feels meaningful and aligned with your values.

I know reaching out for help can be hard, especially if previous efforts didn’t bring the change you were seeking. That’s why I strive to create a safe, compassionate, and judgement-free space where you can feel seen and supported.

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What to expect

  • No need to bring anything, just bring yourself/yourselves.

  • The first session is all about getting to know you. We’ll discuss what’s brought you to counselling, touch on mood, sleep, and wellbeing, and review some background like work, family, social support, and any relevant medical or therapy history.

  • That’s completely normal. Many people feel the same way at first. I will be guided by you and ask questions that create a comfortable, safe space. We’ll go at your pace, there’s no rush to share everything straight away.

  • My practice is guided by fairness, trust, and non-judgement. I welcome all identities with openness and respect.

  • Everything we do in our sessions is based on proven methods. I blend different therapy approaches tailored to your needs.

    I often use an Emotion-Focused approach with individuals and couples. I draw from relational/attachment-based techniques including: The Gottman Method, Psychodynamic Therapy and EMDR to guide our work together.

Book a FREE discovery appointment

Contact

vanessa@vanessawylie.com.au
03 96053530

122 Toorak Road,
South Yarra, VIC, 3141

459 Toorak Road,
Toorak, VIC, 3142

FAQs

  • I conveniently offer both in-person sessions in Toorak, Melbourne, and HIPAA-compliant Telehealth sessions within Australia.

  • Counsellors cannot accept MHCPs. As such, you are not required to see a GP for a referral. By seeing a therapist without an MHCP, you will not receive a diagnosis that may be labelling or affect other areas of your life , and your treatment will not be recorded in your medical records.

  • Rebates are available through most major Private Health Funds. You just need to contact your Health Fund to check your coverage and rebate amount before booking an appointment.

  • I offer a free 15-minute enquiry call so we can discuss how counselling might meet your needs. After that, we’ll arrange a 50-minute session at a time that works for you.

  • Post-Graduate Studies:
    Master of Counselling – Swinburne University, VIC
    Graduate Diploma in Counselling – Swinburne University, VIC

    Further Training:
    I value ongoing professional development and continue to update my education in Counselling and Psychotherapy. My training is extensive; therefore, I’ve only listed some of the more relevant courses below:

    Emotion-Focused Psychotherapy – The Annandale Institute, NSW

    Emotion-Focused Couple Work – The Annandale Institute, NSW

    Emotion-Focused Individual Therapy – ICEFT, International

    Gottman Method Level 1 - Relationship Institute Australasia, VIC

    Gottman Couples Therapy Core Principles – Drs. J&J Gottman, International

    Working with Difficult Couples - Jacqueline McDiarmid, AUS

    Acceptance & Commitment Therapy – Dr Russ Harris, AUS

    Trauma-Informed Practice: Safety and Stabilisation – Blue Knot, AUS

    EMDR: Level 1 - Caroline Burrows, VIC

    Accreditation:
    Registered Counsellor, Australian Counselling Association (ACA) Level 4

    NDIS - Worker Screening Clearance Approved 80372469