Dr Julie Kruss

Melbourne | Telehealth

Individual Therapy

My name is Julie, and I’m a psychologist practicing on Wurundjeri land, via telehealth with over ten years of experience supporting survivors of complex trauma, sexual assault, and family violence, including work within the prison system. I also work with dissociation, grief and loss, and the psychological and emotional impacts of navigating experiences such as chronic illnesses, and adult diagnoses that were missed in childhood. Additionally, I support people in trauma-exposed professions who are experiencing vicarious trauma, burnout, and moral injury.

My approach is person-centred, trauma-informed, and grounded in our therapeutic relationship. I focus on core values like curiosity, collaboration, choice, non-judgement and empowerment. I draw from a flexible toolkit of evidence-based modalities tailored to each person’s unique needs, that each come with the usual acronyms (lol!). Including Somatic Experiencing (an approach that recognizes how trauma is stored in the nervous system), EMDR, ACT, connection with values, and narrative therapy. I may also incorporate parts-based approaches to help you understand the different sides of yourself, which can promote deeper self-awareness. 

I am sex worker-friendly, and affirming of neurodiversity, LGBTQIAPSB+, consensually non-monogamous relationships, culture, and disability. I recognize how systems of oppression, marginalization, and power dynamics can impact mental health. Being affirming isn’t just a label, it’s an commitment to self-awareness, accountability and ongoing self-reflection around my own privileges and how they shape my perspective and practice.

I know therapy ‘traditionally’ involves sitting across from each other in chairs, but I’m open to breaking that tradition. If it feels more comfortable, we you can sit on the floor, move around, or adjust however we need to. Fidget tools, stimming, and other ways of engaging are welcome, and eye contact is never required. I also love when pop culture references come up, and I sometimes drift off thinking about how I’d survive a zombie apocalypse – humour is welcome in our work together!

Even if your experiences aren’t listed here, if my approach resonates with you, I warmly welcome you to get in touch.