Questions about identity — who you are, where you belong, and what gives your life meaning — are fundamental to psychological wellbeing. When identity is unclear, unstable, or in conflict, significant distress often follows.
Our registered psychologists in Melbourne provide evidence-based support for identity difficulties across four clinic locations and via Telehealth.
WorkCover, NDIS or TAC approved? YOU PAY NOTHING.
If your claim has been approved, we bill your funder directly. Zero out-of-pocket cost — no gap, no upfront payment, nothing.
Identity refers to the stable, coherent sense of self that includes values, beliefs, roles, and affiliations. Identity difficulties occur when this sense of self is unclear, unstable, fragmented, or in significant conflict — producing existential distress, instability in relationships and goals, and difficulty making decisions (Erikson, 1968).
Identity difficulties we commonly support include:
Identity difficulties may be worth addressing when you experience:
Identity stability is strongly associated with psychological wellbeing, relationship quality, and mental health outcomes (Luyckx et al., 2008).
Identity develops through a process of exploration and commitment (Marcia, 1966). Difficulties arise when this process is disrupted — by trauma, invalidation, cultural conflict, or developmental challenges — leaving the person in a state of identity diffusion or foreclosure.
Psychological support addresses:
Narrative therapy and ACT are particularly effective for identity reconstruction and building a coherent, values-based sense of self (White & Epston, 1990).
Our psychologists use approaches tailored to the specific nature of identity difficulties:
ACT distinguishes between the ‘conceptualised self’ (rigid self-narratives and labels) and a more flexible ‘self as context’ that can observe experience without being defined by it. ACT helps clients clarify their values and build a stable, values-based identity less dependent on external validation (Hayes et al., 2012).
Supports clients in exploring the stories they tell about themselves, externalising problem-saturated narratives, and constructing a richer, more coherent life story that reflects their actual values and strengths (White & Epston, 1990). Particularly useful for cultural identity and post-trauma identity work.
Addresses early maladaptive schemas — deep-seated beliefs about the self formed in childhood — that produce identity instability, emptiness, or identity confusion. Schema therapy’s ‘healthy adult’ work is specifically designed to build a stable, coherent sense of self (Young et al., 2003).
For clients exploring or affirming gender or sexual identity, our psychologists provide affirmative, non-pathologising support. We support clients at all stages of identity exploration, disclosure, and transition — including gender affirmation and navigating family or cultural responses.
Identity work is deeply personal. Your psychologist will create a space where all aspects of your identity can be explored safely and without judgement.
Your first appointment is a space to share your experience of your own identity — what feels unclear, conflicted, or distressing — at your own pace.
We are LGBTQIA+ affirming, culturally responsive, and experienced in working with identity across diverse backgrounds.
Identity work varies greatly in depth and duration. Some people benefit from 8–12 sessions; deeper work around trauma and self-concept may benefit from longer-term therapy.
We offer appointments in-clinic at our Mooroolbark, Wheelers Hill, Reservoir, and Melbourne CBD locations, as well as Telehealth sessions from anywhere in Australia.
WorkCover, NDIS or TAC approved? YOU PAY NOTHING.
If your claim has been approved, we bill your funder directly. Zero out-of-pocket cost — no gap, no upfront payment, nothing.
Is identity confusion a diagnosable condition?
Identity disturbance is a feature of several diagnosable conditions including BPD and dissociative disorders. It also occurs as a standalone presentation. Your psychologist will assess the full context in your first session.
Do you support gender identity exploration?
Yes. We provide affirming, non-pathologising support for people exploring gender identity, seeking affirmation, or navigating transition. We do not apply gatekeeping approaches to gender identity.
Can I access Medicare rebates for identity-related difficulties?
Yes, where identity difficulties co-occur with a clinical-level presentation (depression, anxiety, BPD, adjustment disorder). Your GP can advise on a Mental Health Care Plan.
Identity questions are some of the deepest a person can face. We’re here to help you find your way.
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Erikson, E. H. (1968). Identity: Youth and crisis. Norton.
Hayes, S. C., Strosahl, K. D., & Wilson, K. G. (2012). Acceptance and commitment therapy: The process and practice of mindful change (2nd ed.). Guilford Press.
Luyckx, K., Schwartz, S. J., Berzonsky, M. D., Soenens, B., Vansteenkiste, M., Smits, I., & Goossens, L. (2008). Capturing ruminative exploration: Extending the four-dimensional model of identity formation in late adolescence. Journal of Research in Personality, 42(1), 58–82. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jrp.2007.04.004
Marcia, J. E. (1966). Development and validation of ego-identity status. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 3(5), 551–558. https://doi.org/10.1037/h0023281
White, M., & Epston, D. (1990). Narrative means to therapeutic ends. W. W. Norton & Company.
Young, J. E., Klosko, J. S., & Weishaar, M. E. (2003). Schema therapy: A practitioner’s guide. Guilford Press.
