Compass Psychology

21/09/2025

🌏 Non-Combat Trauma in Australian Veterans – The Silent Struggle 🌏

When we think of trauma in veterans, combat often comes to mind. But for many Australian Defence Force members, trauma has arisen from peacekeeping missions, humanitarian deployments, disaster relief, training accidents, and even domestic operations like COVID-19 support.

These experiences may not involve direct warfare, yet they can still leave lasting scars on mental health. Too often, non-combat trauma is misunderstood or dismissed—leaving veterans to feel isolated, invalidated, and unsupported.

At Compass Psychology, we understand that trauma is not defined by the event itself but by how it impacts your mind, body, and relationships. Our clinical psychologists are experienced in supporting veterans to process non-combat trauma and rebuild resilience through evidence-based, compassionate care.

💡 Read our latest blog to learn more about:
✔️ What non-combat trauma is
✔️ How it affects veterans
✔️ Why acknowledgement and early support are essential
✔️ Pathways to recovery and how Compass Psychology can help

👉 Read the full article here: www.compasspsychology.com.au/blog-15.html

If you’re a veteran struggling with non-combat trauma, please know you are not alone—and help is available. 💙

11/07/2025

NAIDOC Week 2025: The Next Generation – Strength, Vision & Legacy

This NAIDOC Week, we honour the strength of our ancestors, the vision of our young people, and the legacy we’re all helping to shape.

As an Indigenous clinical psychologist, I see every day how cultural connection supports healing, identity, and resilience. Culture isn’t just history — it’s living, breathing, and powerful.

This year’s theme is a reminder to invest in the next generation — not just through words, but in how we listen, learn, and walk alongside each other.

Cultural connection matters for all of us. When we value First Nations voices, we build stronger, more compassionate communities — grounded in truth and respect.

Let’s keep showing up, together.

Read more at:
🌐 www.compasspsychology.com.au/blog-14.html

13YARN: 13 92 76 | Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636

Compass Psychology - 344a Barkly Street, Footscray, Victoria.
- Face to face support
- Telehealth available

01/06/2025

😴 **Struggling to sleep after service? You're not alone.**

For many veterans, falling—and staying—asleep can feel impossible. Whether it’s nightmares, hypervigilance, or just not being able to switch off, poor sleep can hit hard. And over time, it takes a toll on your mood, memory, relationships, and physical health.

At Compass Psychology, we *get it*—because some of us have worn the uniform too. We're here to help you rebuild healthy sleep habits, one step at a time.

✔️ Practical strategies
✔️ Trauma-informed care
✔️ No pressure, no judgment—just support that works

Read our latest blog to learn how you can start getting better rest:
👉 https://www.compasspsychology.com.au/blog-13.html

10/05/2025

🌿 We're excited to share that Clinical Psychologist Kim Tran is returning from leave and will be available for appointments from mid-June 2025! Kim brings warmth, insight, and a deep commitment to her clients’ wellbeing.

Spots are limited, so if you've been waiting to reconnect or begin your therapy journey with Kim, now’s the perfect time to book.

📅 Appointments available from mid-June – reach out to secure your place.



www.compasspsychology.com.au/staff

15/04/2025

💬 Thinking about seeing a psychologist, but not sure if it’s for you? You’re not alone.

At Compass Psychology in Footscray, we meet everyday people who are feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, stuck in old patterns, or simply needing someone to talk to.

But many people still hesitate to reach out because of common myths about therapy:
❌ “It’s only for people with serious mental illness”
❌ “Talking won’t change anything”
❌ “Seeing a psychologist means I’ve failed”

The truth? Therapy can help with so many aspects of life — from stress and relationship struggles to trauma, anxiety, and life transitions. And you don’t need to be in crisis to benefit.

At Compass Psychology, our clinical psychologists in Footscray create a safe, compassionate space for you to feel heard and supported. Whether you're looking for clarity, coping tools, or deeper healing through trauma counselling in Melbourne, we’re here to help.

👉 Curious about what the first session looks like?
You don’t need to have everything figured out. We’ll start by understanding what’s going on for you — gently, respectfully, and at your pace.

✨ If you’ve been wondering whether therapy is right for you, take the first step.
You deserve to feel supported.

📍Visit www.compasspsychology.com.au to book or learn more.
📞 We’re ready when you are.

Compass Psychology | Helping everyday people find direction.

07/04/2025

🇦🇺 **Veterans Supporting Veterans – You're Not Alone** 🇦🇺

If you’ve served, you know what it means to push through pain, keep your guard up, and “crack on” no matter what’s going on underneath. But you don’t have to carry it all on your own anymore.

At Compass Psychology, we’re proud to offer clinical psychology support for veterans, by veterans. That means you’ll be talking to someone who gets it. Someone who knows the lingo, understands the culture, and doesn’t need everything explained. We've laced on boots, too.

Whether you’re managing PTSD, anxiety, depression, moral injury, adjustment issues after discharge, or just feeling like you're stuck, there is support funded by DVA.

💡 How it works:
- If you hold a **DVA White or Gold Card**, you can access psychological support at no cost to you.
- You don’t need a diagnosis to start—just reach out to your GP and ask for a DVA referral (you can download this from our website!).
- Choose Compass Psychology as your provider. Simple.

We understand how overwhelming it can feel to reach out. You might be thinking, “I’m not bad enough,” or “others have it worse.” But here’s the truth: it doesn't matter if you served one day or 30 years, your service mattered, and your mental health matters too.

We’ve helped veterans through all kinds of struggles—from the silent weight of transition, to flashbacks, sleep issues, anger, grief, problems with alcohol or other substances, or just trying to be a good partner or parent after years of high-tempo work.

Our goal is simple: to walk alongside you, without judgement, and help you find your footing again.

🪖 Our clinical psychologists are veterans, so we bring not just professional expertise but lived experience.

📍 We’re based in Footscray, Melbourne, but we also offer telehealth appointments across Australia, including for those in regional or remote locations.

If you’ve been meaning to get help but weren’t sure where to start—this is your sign.

👉 Start the conversation today.
Ask your GP for a referral to Compass Psychology through DVA (download the form from www.compasspsychology.com.au/veterans.html).
Or if you want help navigating the process, just give us a call or visit our website.

You served your country. Now let us help you take care of you.

**Compass Psychology – Veterans Supporting Veterans.**



www.compasspsychology.com.au/veterans.html

22/03/2025

🇦🇺 Supporting Our Fellow Veterans at Compass Psychology 🎖️

At Compass Psychology, we deeply understand the unique challenges faced by those who have served our country. As a veteran-owned and operated practice, our clinicians bring firsthand military experience to our therapeutic approach, ensuring that we not only speak your language but also genuinely comprehend the intricacies of military life.

Why Choose Compass Psychology?

- Lived Experience: Our team’s personal military backgrounds allow us to connect authentically with our veteran clients, fostering a therapeutic environment built on trust and mutual understanding.

- Tailored Support: We specialise in addressing mental health concerns prevalent among veterans, including trauma, anxiety, and depression, utilising evidence-based therapies to guide your journey toward healing.

- Community Commitment: Beyond individual therapy, we are dedicated to supporting the broader veteran community, recognising the profound impact of military service on both mental health and family dynamics.

If you or someone you know is navigating the transition to civilian life or facing service-related challenges, reach out to u. At Compass Psychology, you're not just a client; you're a fellow veteran, and we're here to support you every step of the way.

Contact Us:

📍 Address: 344a Barkly Street, Footscray VIC 3011

📞 Phone: (03) 86091925

✉️ Email: info@compasspsychology.cm.au

🌐 Website: https://www.compasspsychology.com.au/veterans.html

Our clinical psychologists support veterans at our Footscray office or via Telehealth.

09/02/2025

ADHD and Personality: More Than Just a Label

The other day, I sat with a bright and curious 9-year-old client who said, "If I didn’t have ADHD, I’d be a different person." It was a big thought, and an important one. We talked about how ADHD is a part of him, but not all of him.

Many children and adults with ADHD struggle with this question of identity. ADHD influences focus, emotions, and behaviour, but it doesn’t define a person’s whole personality. It’s just one thread in the bigger picture of who they are.

For adults diagnosed later in life, the experience can be both a relief and a challenge. Many look back and wonder how things might have been different if they had known earlier. But a diagnosis doesn’t change who they are—it helps them understand themselves in a new way.

ADHD isn’t just about challenges—it also brings strengths like creativity, energy, and out-of-the-box thinking. The key is to embrace these strengths while learning to manage difficulties.

At Compass Psychology, we help adolescents and adults navigate ADHD with confidence and self-acceptance. If you or someone you love is exploring ADHD, we’re here to support you. Let’s focus on strengths, not just struggles.

💙 Reach out to Compass Psychology in Melbourne to learn more!

Read more at:

https://www.compasspsychology.com.au/blog-12.html

People can often view others only in the context of having ADHD, but they are much more...

14/12/2024

The Psychological Impact of Birth Trauma: It Affects Both Parents

Childbirth is a life-changing moment, but for some, it can be overwhelming and traumatic. Birth trauma doesn’t just affect mothers—fathers and partners can feel its impact too. At Compass Psychology in Melbourne, we’re here to help you navigate the challenges and start healing.

What Is Birth Trauma?
Birth trauma refers to emotional distress caused by difficult or frightening childbirth experiences. It can stem from medical complications, emergency interventions, or feeling unsupported during labour. These experiences leave emotional scars that often go unnoticed, affecting both parents in unique ways.

How It Affects Mothers
For mothers, birth trauma can lead to flashbacks, anxiety, depression, and difficulty bonding with their baby. Some even avoid future pregnancies due to fear of experiencing another traumatic birth.

How It Affects Fathers
Fathers or partners aren’t immune. Witnessing a loved one in pain or feeling helpless during childbirth can lead to symptoms similar to PTSD, such as flashbacks and emotional withdrawal. Many struggle to express their emotions or seek help.

Finding Help
Recovery is possible. Therapies like EMDR and CBT can help process trauma, while support groups and couples therapy strengthen connections. Self-care and understanding birth trauma are also crucial steps toward healing.

We’re Here to Support You
At Compass Psychology in Melbourne, our compassionate team provides evidence-based treatments for individuals and couples. We’re dedicated to helping you work through the emotional impact of birth trauma and reclaim the joy of parenthood.

You’re not alone. Let’s start the healing journey together. Contact Compass Psychology today. 💙

Read more at:

The psychological impact of birth trauma can have profound and lasting impacts on parents and partners.

12/12/2024

Simon Kimm is a clinical psychologist and board approved supervisor. Simon has availability for availability for supervision in 2025 and is able to provide general supervision to psychologists and supervise provisional psychologists who are undertaking the 4+2 and 5+1 programs as primary or secondary supervisor. Please contact www.compasspsychology.com.au/contact.html for more information.

Contact us to learn how our team of clinical psychologists at Compass Psychology can support you on your mental health journey.

11/11/2024

🐾 **Honoring the Grief of Losing a Beloved Pet** 🐾

Losing a pet can be as heartbreaking as losing a human loved one, yet this grief is often misunderstood. Pets aren’t just animals; they’re family members who provide unconditional love, companionship, and emotional stability. For many, their loss leaves an emotional void that feels overwhelming (Branson, 2015).

Our pets offer more than cuddles. They help reduce anxiety, stress, and depression, and studies even show they can lower cortisol levels while increasing oxytocin, the bonding hormone (Beetz et al., 2012). The depth of this connection means their passing can trigger real, intense grief – a loss that deserves validation and support.

At Compass Psychology, we understand the profound impact losing a pet can have on mental health. We provide compassionate support to help you navigate the pain, honor the bond you shared, and find a path forward. 💙 If you or someone you know needs help, please reach out.

📞 **Support Lines**:
- Pet Loss Support Line: 1300 431 450
- Griefline: 1300 845 745
- Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636
- Lifeline: 13 11 14

🔗 *This post is in memory of ‘Charlotte,’ a loyal companion of nearly 17 years.*

**References**
- Australian Companion Animal Council. (2021). *The Australian pet population: 2021 survey results*.
- Beetz, A., et al. (2012). *Frontiers in Psychology, 3*, 234.

Read more:

Grieving the loss of a pet is deep and emotional experience that affects your mental health.

25/10/2024

**Surviving a Narcissistic Parent: Finding Healing and Support**

Growing up with a narcissistic parent can leave lasting emotional scars. Narcissistic parents often put their own needs above their child’s, leading to a cycle of emotional manipulation, control, and sometimes neglect. This environment can leave children—both young and adult—feeling inadequate, self-doubting, and deeply unsure of their worth. The impact is significant, but healing is possible.

--- Understanding Narcissistic Parenting ---

Narcissistic parents usually seek constant admiration and control, often using their children to fulfil these needs. As a result, children may:
- Feel responsible for their parent’s happiness.
- Struggle with setting boundaries.
- Experience chronic self-doubt and people-pleasing tendencies.

These patterns can carry into adulthood, affecting relationships, self-esteem, and overall well-being.

--- Treatment Options for Healing ---

Healing from the effects of a narcissistic parent requires emotional support, skill-building, and often, therapy.

For **children** still living with a narcissistic parent, therapy focuses on:
- **Emotional validation**: Reinforcing that their feelings matter.
- **Building self-worth**: Helping children develop a positive sense of self.
- **Resilience skills**: Teaching ways to manage the parent’s behaviour without compromising their own needs.

For **adult children** of narcissists, therapy can provide:
- **Boundary-setting strategies**: Learning to establish and protect emotional space from the parent.
- **Healing past trauma**: Working through feelings of guilt, anger, or sadness.
- **Self-compassion**: Learning to prioritise personal well-being without guilt.

Approaches like **Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)** and **Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)** are effective in helping process trauma and break free from old patterns (Beck et al., 2020).

--- How Compass Psychology Can Help ---

At Compass Psychology in Melbourne, our clinical psychologists offer compassionate support tailored to those affected by narcissistic parenting. Whether you are a parent seeking help for a child or an adult ready to address past wounds, our team is here to help you develop the resilience, confidence, and freedom to move forward.

The journey to healing can be complex, but with support, it’s possible to reclaim your life, self-worth, and peace of mind.

---

**References**
Beck, J. S., et al. (2020). *Cognitive Behavior Therapy: Basics and Beyond*. Guilford Press.
https://compasspsychology.com.au/blog-9.html

Send a message to learn more