Pooja Rai

I am a Provisional Psychologist, currently doing the 5+1 Internship. I am registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and Australian Psychological Society (APS). I  believe in the holistic approach to therapy and working collaboratively with all my clients towards their emotional well-being and therapeutic goals. I  approach each client with empathy, care and curiosity, taking time to understand their emotional needs and provide a treatment plan tailored to their specific individual needs. I  give a safe and non-judgmental space for the clients to share their experiences and needs.

I believe that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered in their journey towards healing. I am passionate about developing a warm, collaborative, safe and confidential space for clients.

With experience supporting people from all walks of life—including children, adults, older adults, Aboriginal clients, and LGBTQ+ communities—I work across a wide range of concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, PTSD, relationship challenges, and low self-esteem. I have experience in working with children and adults of various presentations across age groups over 18 years of age and with Cultural Diversity including depression, anxiety, stress, trauma and neurodivergence.

 I have worked with clients experiencing phobias, relationship issues, domestic violence, work related stress, sleep issues, Addiction, Gambling, Anger Management and Self Esteem.

 My work is guided by empathy and collaboration, drawing on approaches like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), cognitive restructuring, and solution-focused strategies. I work mainly with Person Centred Therapy and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) framework incorporating techniques from other evidence-based therapies such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy and Schema Therapy.

Having worked as a domestic violence counsellor, I have supported individuals through some of life’s most difficult moments. I’m especially passionate about helping clients navigate interpersonal trauma and rebuild a sense of safety and self-worth.

I also have a strong interest in ADHD and cognitive assessments and am keen to support clients through tailored evaluations, where helpful.

Fluent in Hindi and Urdu and conversational in Punjabi, I aim to make therapy as accessible and culturally sensitive as possible. If you’re looking for support that honours your story and background, I’m here to walk alongside you.

I currently see individuals and couples at our Melbourne CBD office, and via Telehealth.

Please call reception on 1300224665 to book an appointment.