Get Personalised Support From an Experienced Psychologist in South Yarra

You’re not alone. Get personalised, evidence-based support for anxiety, depression, stress and life challenges.

  • Highly experienced principal psychologist
  • Evidence-based therapy tailored to you
  • Personalised support for adults aged 18 and over
  • AHPRA-registered psychologist
  • Medicare & private health rebates available
  • Evidence-based, tailored therapy (CBT, ACT, EMDR)
  • Often immediate availability, no waitlists

Your Trusted Psychologist in South Yarra

Fortitude Wellbeing is a boutique psychology clinic led by Melissa Bell, an AHPRA-registered psychologist in South Yarra.

We offer a safe and trusted therapeutic setting where you can feel heard, understood, and acknowledged by someone who responds to you with empathy and professionalism.

We support adults experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, relationship challenges, life transitions and other concerns that affect daily life.

New clients can visit our South Yarra psychology clinic or phone us directly. We often have immediate availability.

Our South Yarra Psychologist’s Services

Adult ADHD Assessments

Anxiety Counselling

Depression Treatment

Relationship Therapy

Workshops

Hypnosis

Start Your Journey to Mental Wellness Today

Principal Psychologist

Meet Your Trusted Psychologist: Melissa Bell

Melissa is a registered psychologist and teacher with over 18 years of clinical experience.

She is passionate about creating a safe space for existing and new clients, helping them feel comfortable discussing past experiences, engaging with their feelings and behaviours, and expressing how they cope with challenges.

Melissa attends regular clinical supervision with a board-registered supervisor and continues professional learning.

She also works with a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, stress management, eating disorders, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties and relationship challenges.

Therapeutic Approaches

Appointments will include a mix of therapeutic approaches and evidence-based therapy options tailored to each person.

Different approaches may suit different concerns and stages of life. Treatment is designed to help clients better understand their emotions, strengthen self-esteem and develop practical coping strategies.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Person-Centred Therapy

Psychoeducation

Why Choose Us As Your South Yarra Psychology Clinic?

Qualified and Experienced Psychologist

Melissa Bell is an AHPRA-registered psychologist with almost two decades of experience.

She takes a thoughtful, personalised approach to supporting each client.

Supportive Environment

Melissa fosters a supportive environment, so you feel safe to be yourself throughout your sessions.

Many clients find that having a space free from judgment makes it easier to explore difficult emotions and discuss sensitive concerns.

Evidence-Based Therapies

Melissa uses evidence-based psychological approaches tailored to each client to support their individual needs.

Positive Relationships

Melissa works collaboratively with you to build a strong therapeutic relationship and practical coping strategies.

Personalised Therapeutic Services

Every individual is unique, and so is our approach. Melissa customises therapies to resonate with and benefit each client.

She will work collaboratively with you to build practical coping strategies that support lasting change over time.

Experience Professional Support and Guidance

What To Expect From Our Counselling Services

Initial Sessions

In your first consultation with Melissa, you’ll discuss your background, struggles, concerns, therapeutic preferences and goals.

Many clients find this first step helpful when discussing symptoms, emotions, communication difficulties and concerns that may feel difficult to talk about.

Personalised Treatment Plan

From your initial consultation, Melissa will craft a unique therapeutic plan for your needs, providing personalised care at every stage.

Engaging and Supportive Sessions

With your personalised plan, you’ll engage in face-to-face or online therapy sessions. Your appointment will be a place of learning, understanding, reflection, creativity, and growth.

Therapy sessions provide support and help clients manage stress, grief, self-criticism, and emotional challenges while developing practical coping strategies with greater ability and courage.

Future Planning

As your therapy sessions progress, we’ll discuss the progress made and outline any appropriate next steps to help maintain your wellbeing.

Our Location

Fortitude Wellbeing is conveniently located on Toorak Road, South Yarra. You can book via the contact form below or give us a call.

Our office location in South Yarra

Please note that online appointments are also available.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly does a psychologist do?

A psychologist works with you to understand how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours affect your mental health, conducting assessments, developing individualised treatment plans, and delivering evidence-based therapy. 

At Fortitude Wellbeing, Melissa draws on approaches like CBT, ACT, and EMDR to support adults working through anxiety, stress, depression, relationship difficulties, and more. You can read more about what a psychologist does on our blog

What's the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist?

The difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist is that a psychologist delivers talk therapy and evidence-based treatment, while a psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can prescribe medication.

If your concerns are emotional or behavioural and you are looking for a therapy-based approach, a psychologist is likely the right fit. For a full breakdown, see our guide on the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist.

Is it better to see a psychologist or a counsellor?

Whether to see a psychologist or a counsellor depends on what you are dealing with. Psychologists are trained to diagnose and treat mental health conditions using evidence-based methods, while counsellors typically focus on everyday emotional challenges and short-term support.

If you are unsure, our blog walks through how to decide whether to see a psychologist or a counsellor.

Is it worth going to a psychologist?

Seeing a psychologist is worth it for many people, particularly those looking to build practical coping strategies, improve self-awareness, manage stress, and work through concerns that have become hard to carry alone. 

Our blog covers the benefits of seeing a psychologist in more detail.

Can I get a Medicare rebate?

Medicare rebates may be available depending on your circumstances, as may private health insurance rebates. You can discuss your eligibility, fees, and rebates with your psychologist and insurance provider.

How many sessions will I need?

The number of sessions you need depends on your concerns, goals, and individual circumstances. Your psychologist will discuss a suitable treatment plan with you as therapy progresses.

Speak With an Experienced Psychologist in South Yarra Today

Get supportive care for your mental health in a safe space and work through life’s challenges with our South Yarra psychologist.

Email

Clinic

Suite 5/35 Toorak Rd, South Yarra VIC 3141