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Adam Szmerling

Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist

“ 20+ years’ psychoanalytic expertise guiding individuals and couples through anxiety, addictions, and relationship struggles to lasting calm. ”

Book an Appointment
Adam Szmerling therapist icon at Bayside Psychotherapy

Expert Profile

Expertise:

Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy
Couples Therapy
Schema Therapy

Can help with:

Relationship Difficulties
Anxiety
Addictions
Anxiety

Available:

Online
In-Clinic

Fees: $200 per 50-min session (Individuals & Couples)
(Medicare rebate $87.25 per session with a valid Mental Health Care Plan)

Sidebar Contact Form

  • This field is hidden when viewing the form

About Me

Struggling with anxiety, relationship issues, or emotional overwhelm? I’m Adam Szmerling, a Melbourne psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience helping people like you find confidence and calm.

Born and raised in Melbourne, I’m an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker (AASW) and Clinical Psychotherapist (PACFA Reg. Clinical 21960).

For over 20 years, I’ve helped individual adults and couples who feel stuck in cycles of anxiety, addictions, relationship difficulties, or overwhelming emotions to find new perspectives and transform themselves.

I own Bayside Psychotherapy, offering both online and face-to-face sessions in Melbourne’s Bayside location. As the owner, I’m proud that our clinic was featured on Channel 7’s House of Wellness, showcasing our expertise in fears and phobias.

My primary approach is Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy, focused on creating nuanced perspectives into your thoughts and behaviors. This method has sound research validating its usefulness for individuals who are committed to the process. I also use Schema Therapy when needed.

To make psychotherapy accessible, I offer secure, encrypted online sessions, so you can receive care from anywhere, whether you’re in Melbourne or another location

Therapy isn’t just about qualifications. Qualities like compassion, empathy, good communication and open-mindedness are equally important. That’s why I approach every session with a non-judgmental attitude, blending Eastern and Western methods to find what works best for you.

My clients often tell me they feel truly heard, understood and accepted for who they are.

Book an Appointment

Expert Profile

Expertise:

Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy
Couples Therapy
Schema Therapy

Can help with:

Relationship Difficulties
Anxiety
Addictions
Anxiety

Available:

Online
In-Clinic

Fees: $200 per 50-min session (Individuals & Couples)
(Medicare rebate $87.25 per session with a valid Mental Health Care Plan)

Sidebar Contact Form

  • This field is hidden when viewing the form

Qualifications

  • Bachelor of Applied Social Science (Counselling)
  • Graduate Diploma of Buddhist Psychotherapy
  • Master of Social Work (MSW)
  • Certificate of Lacanian Psychoanalytic Theory and Practice
  • Golden Key Member
  • Clinical and Mental Health Member of the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA)
  • Accredited Mental Health Social Worker (AMHSW)

How I can help you?

Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or just not yourself? I can help with:
• Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy (Lacanian): Lacanian Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy helps uncover unconscious thoughts through conversation. During our sessions, I pay close attention to your words, noticing subtle hints—like slips of the tongue, repeated phrases, or dreams—that might reveal deeper, hidden motivations. This therapy isn’t about giving advice or solving problems directly; it’s about helping you reflect on these unconscious signs to gain new insights.
Unlike traditional therapy, where you might expect the therapist to fix problems, Lacanian Psychotherapy sees these gaps—or this sense of ‘lack’—as a natural part of being human, not something that needs fixing.
My role is to help you understand this ‘lack’ in a new way. Instead of trying to figure out your unconscious alone, you share it with me, and together we can turn that understanding into lasting change. We begin with conversation, and as trust builds, you might be invited to lie on the couch—a practice that helps deepen your self-reflection.
• Schema Therapy: looks at how early childhood experiences can create patterns that affect your thoughts, feelings and behaviours as an adult. It combines ideas from cognitive-behavioural therapy, attachment theory, and psychodynamic therapy to help you understand and change harmful patterns. This approach also helps couples improve how they relate to each other.
These therapies go beyond treating symptoms—they address the root causes. Regular sessions over time are key to achieving the best results.
Though deeper work takes time, some clients feel positive changes early in therapy as we work towards sustainable change.

Why work with me?

Choosing a psychotherapist is about finding someone who really understands what you’re going through.

Here’s why I might be a good fit for you:

  • I bring a caring, non-judgmental approach to our sessions.
  • Your privacy is important to me. I use secure, encrypted platforms for online sessions to keep your information safe.
  • I blend Eastern and Western therapeutic practices to create a treatment plan that’s right for you.
  • I stay updated with the latest research and methods to make sure you get the best care. My specialties include Lacanian Psychoanalysis, Buddhist Psychotherapy, mindfulness and Schema Therapy.
  • I’m committed to ongoing professional development and providing supervision to other therapists, so I’m always learning and growing in my practice.

I only take on clients who are a good fit for my methods and are committed to the therapy process. This means being open to exploring how your past affects your present and being ready to work through difficult issues. Initial sessions are a valuable opportunity to trial the method and see if there is a fit.

Understanding your needs

Psychotherapy takes time. We’ll work together to understand your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. Over time, many people start to feel more in control of their lives and emotions.

If you’re curious about why you think, feel, and act the way you do—and are ready to explore these questions—my approach could be right for you.

I know that symptom relief is important to you, but focusing too much on symptoms can make things worse. It’s a bit like trying to fall asleep—the more you try, the harder it can be. Instead, we’ll work on understanding you better, which can bring natural relief.

Getting started

Therapy works best when you’re committed to prioritising our sessions with openness to exploring your deeper thoughts and feelings and establishing fresh perspectives.

If that sounds like you, I’d love to help. Here’s how to get started:

1. Book your session: You can call me at (03) 9557 9113 or book your appointment online.

2. Prepare for your session: For online appointments, I’ll send you a secure form to fill out and a link to our virtual waiting room. For in-person appointments, you’ll receive an email confirmation and an intake form to complete before your visit.

My role is to help you understand this ‘lack’ in a new way. Instead of trying to figure out your unconscious alone, you share it with me, and together we can turn that understanding into lasting change. We begin with conversation, and as trust builds, you might be invited to lie on the couch—a practice that helps deepen your self-reflection.

You can claim Medicare rebates with a valid Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP). Bulk-billing is not available. You or your GP can email me, or fax your referral to 03 9124 1522.

I also accept NDIS self-managed and plan-managed clients on a case by case basis. Please contact me before booking if you are an NDIS participant.

Is it time to work on you?

Book an Appointment
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Adam Szmerling

Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist

“ 20+ years’ psychoanalytic expertise guiding individuals and couples through anxiety, addictions, and relationship struggles to lasting calm. ”

Book an Appointment
Adam Szmerling therapist icon at Bayside Psychotherapy

Expert Profile

Expertise:

Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy
Couples Therapy
Schema Therapy

Can help with:

Relationship Difficulties
Anxiety
Addictions
Anxiety

Available:

Online
In-Clinic

Fees: $200 per 50-min session (Individuals & Couples)
(Medicare rebate $87.25 per session with a valid Mental Health Care Plan)

Sidebar Contact Form

  • This field is hidden when viewing the form

About Me

Struggling with anxiety, relationship issues, or emotional overwhelm? I’m Adam Szmerling, a Melbourne psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience helping people like you find confidence and calm.

Born and raised in Melbourne, I’m an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker (AASW) and Clinical Psychotherapist (PACFA Reg. Clinical 21960).

For over 20 years, I’ve helped individual adults and couples who feel stuck in cycles of anxiety, addictions, relationship difficulties, or overwhelming emotions to find new perspectives and transform themselves.

I own Bayside Psychotherapy, offering both online and face-to-face sessions in Melbourne’s Bayside location. As the owner, I’m proud that our clinic was featured on Channel 7’s House of Wellness, showcasing our expertise in fears and phobias.

My primary approach is Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy, focused on creating nuanced perspectives into your thoughts and behaviors. This method has sound research validating its usefulness for individuals who are committed to the process. I also use Schema Therapy when needed.

To make psychotherapy accessible, I offer secure, encrypted online sessions, so you can receive care from anywhere, whether you’re in Melbourne or another location

Therapy isn’t just about qualifications. Qualities like compassion, empathy, good communication and open-mindedness are equally important. That’s why I approach every session with a non-judgmental attitude, blending Eastern and Western methods to find what works best for you.

My clients often tell me they feel truly heard, understood and accepted for who they are.

Book an Appointment

Expert Profile

Expertise:

Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy
Couples Therapy
Schema Therapy

Can help with:

Relationship Difficulties
Anxiety
Addictions
Anxiety

Available:

Online
In-Clinic

Fees: $200 per 50-min session (Individuals & Couples)
(Medicare rebate $87.25 per session with a valid Mental Health Care Plan)

Sidebar Contact Form

  • This field is hidden when viewing the form

Qualifications

  • Bachelor of Applied Social Science (Counselling)
  • Graduate Diploma of Buddhist Psychotherapy
  • Master of Social Work (MSW)
  • Certificate of Lacanian Psychoanalytic Theory and Practice
  • Golden Key Member
  • Clinical and Mental Health Member of the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA)
  • Accredited Mental Health Social Worker (AMHSW)

How I can help you?

Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or just not yourself? I can help with:
• Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy (Lacanian): Lacanian Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy helps uncover unconscious thoughts through conversation. During our sessions, I pay close attention to your words, noticing subtle hints—like slips of the tongue, repeated phrases, or dreams—that might reveal deeper, hidden motivations. This therapy isn’t about giving advice or solving problems directly; it’s about helping you reflect on these unconscious signs to gain new insights.
Unlike traditional therapy, where you might expect the therapist to fix problems, Lacanian Psychotherapy sees these gaps—or this sense of ‘lack’—as a natural part of being human, not something that needs fixing.
My role is to help you understand this ‘lack’ in a new way. Instead of trying to figure out your unconscious alone, you share it with me, and together we can turn that understanding into lasting change. We begin with conversation, and as trust builds, you might be invited to lie on the couch—a practice that helps deepen your self-reflection.
• Schema Therapy: looks at how early childhood experiences can create patterns that affect your thoughts, feelings and behaviours as an adult. It combines ideas from cognitive-behavioural therapy, attachment theory, and psychodynamic therapy to help you understand and change harmful patterns. This approach also helps couples improve how they relate to each other.
These therapies go beyond treating symptoms—they address the root causes. Regular sessions over time are key to achieving the best results.
Though deeper work takes time, some clients feel positive changes early in therapy as we work towards sustainable change.

Why work with me?

Choosing a psychotherapist is about finding someone who really understands what you’re going through.

Here’s why I might be a good fit for you:

  • I bring a caring, non-judgmental approach to our sessions.
  • Your privacy is important to me. I use secure, encrypted platforms for online sessions to keep your information safe.
  • I blend Eastern and Western therapeutic practices to create a treatment plan that’s right for you.
  • I stay updated with the latest research and methods to make sure you get the best care. My specialties include Lacanian Psychoanalysis, Buddhist Psychotherapy, mindfulness and Schema Therapy.
  • I’m committed to ongoing professional development and providing supervision to other therapists, so I’m always learning and growing in my practice.

I only take on clients who are a good fit for my methods and are committed to the therapy process. This means being open to exploring how your past affects your present and being ready to work through difficult issues. Initial sessions are a valuable opportunity to trial the method and see if there is a fit.

Understanding your needs

Psychotherapy takes time. We’ll work together to understand your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. Over time, many people start to feel more in control of their lives and emotions.

If you’re curious about why you think, feel, and act the way you do—and are ready to explore these questions—my approach could be right for you.

I know that symptom relief is important to you, but focusing too much on symptoms can make things worse. It’s a bit like trying to fall asleep—the more you try, the harder it can be. Instead, we’ll work on understanding you better, which can bring natural relief.

Getting started

Therapy works best when you’re committed to prioritising our sessions with openness to exploring your deeper thoughts and feelings and establishing fresh perspectives.

If that sounds like you, I’d love to help. Here’s how to get started:

1. Book your session: You can call me at (03) 9557 9113 or book your appointment online.

2. Prepare for your session: For online appointments, I’ll send you a secure form to fill out and a link to our virtual waiting room. For in-person appointments, you’ll receive an email confirmation and an intake form to complete before your visit.

My role is to help you understand this ‘lack’ in a new way. Instead of trying to figure out your unconscious alone, you share it with me, and together we can turn that understanding into lasting change. We begin with conversation, and as trust builds, you might be invited to lie on the couch—a practice that helps deepen your self-reflection.

You can claim Medicare rebates with a valid Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP). Bulk-billing is not available. You or your GP can email me, or fax your referral to 03 9124 1522.

I also accept NDIS self-managed and plan-managed clients on a case by case basis. Please contact me before booking if you are an NDIS participant.

Is it time to work on you?

Book an Appointment
View therapists who do online
In-clinic session
In-clinic session

Adam Szmerling

Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist

“ 20+ years’ psychoanalytic expertise guiding individuals and couples through anxiety, addictions, and relationship struggles to lasting calm. ”

Book an Appointment
Adam Szmerling therapist icon at Bayside Psychotherapy

Expert Profile

Expertise:

Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy
Couples Therapy
Schema Therapy

Can help with:

Relationship Difficulties
Anxiety
Addictions
Anxiety

Available:

Online
In-Clinic

Fees: $200 per 50-min session (Individuals & Couples)
(Medicare rebate $87.25 per session with a valid Mental Health Care Plan)

Sidebar Contact Form

  • This field is hidden when viewing the form

About Me

Struggling with anxiety, relationship issues, or emotional overwhelm? I’m Adam Szmerling, a Melbourne psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience helping people like you find confidence and calm.

Born and raised in Melbourne, I’m an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker (AASW) and Clinical Psychotherapist (PACFA Reg. Clinical 21960).

For over 20 years, I’ve helped individual adults and couples who feel stuck in cycles of anxiety, addictions, relationship difficulties, or overwhelming emotions to find new perspectives and transform themselves.

I own Bayside Psychotherapy, offering both online and face-to-face sessions in Melbourne’s Bayside location. As the owner, I’m proud that our clinic was featured on Channel 7’s House of Wellness, showcasing our expertise in fears and phobias.

My primary approach is Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy, focused on creating nuanced perspectives into your thoughts and behaviors. This method has sound research validating its usefulness for individuals who are committed to the process. I also use Schema Therapy when needed.

To make psychotherapy accessible, I offer secure, encrypted online sessions, so you can receive care from anywhere, whether you’re in Melbourne or another location

Therapy isn’t just about qualifications. Qualities like compassion, empathy, good communication and open-mindedness are equally important. That’s why I approach every session with a non-judgmental attitude, blending Eastern and Western methods to find what works best for you.

My clients often tell me they feel truly heard, understood and accepted for who they are.

Book an Appointment

Expert Profile

Expertise:

Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy
Couples Therapy
Schema Therapy

Can help with:

Relationship Difficulties
Anxiety
Addictions
Anxiety

Available:

Online
In-Clinic

Fees: $200 per 50-min session (Individuals & Couples)
(Medicare rebate $87.25 per session with a valid Mental Health Care Plan)

Sidebar Contact Form

  • This field is hidden when viewing the form

Qualifications

  • Bachelor of Applied Social Science (Counselling)
  • Graduate Diploma of Buddhist Psychotherapy
  • Master of Social Work (MSW)
  • Certificate of Lacanian Psychoanalytic Theory and Practice
  • Golden Key Member
  • Clinical and Mental Health Member of the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA)
  • Accredited Mental Health Social Worker (AMHSW)

How I can help you?

Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or just not yourself? I can help with:
• Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy (Lacanian): Lacanian Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy helps uncover unconscious thoughts through conversation. During our sessions, I pay close attention to your words, noticing subtle hints—like slips of the tongue, repeated phrases, or dreams—that might reveal deeper, hidden motivations. This therapy isn’t about giving advice or solving problems directly; it’s about helping you reflect on these unconscious signs to gain new insights.
Unlike traditional therapy, where you might expect the therapist to fix problems, Lacanian Psychotherapy sees these gaps—or this sense of ‘lack’—as a natural part of being human, not something that needs fixing.
My role is to help you understand this ‘lack’ in a new way. Instead of trying to figure out your unconscious alone, you share it with me, and together we can turn that understanding into lasting change. We begin with conversation, and as trust builds, you might be invited to lie on the couch—a practice that helps deepen your self-reflection.
• Schema Therapy: looks at how early childhood experiences can create patterns that affect your thoughts, feelings and behaviours as an adult. It combines ideas from cognitive-behavioural therapy, attachment theory, and psychodynamic therapy to help you understand and change harmful patterns. This approach also helps couples improve how they relate to each other.
These therapies go beyond treating symptoms—they address the root causes. Regular sessions over time are key to achieving the best results.
Though deeper work takes time, some clients feel positive changes early in therapy as we work towards sustainable change.

Why work with me?

Choosing a psychotherapist is about finding someone who really understands what you’re going through.

Here’s why I might be a good fit for you:

  • I bring a caring, non-judgmental approach to our sessions.
  • Your privacy is important to me. I use secure, encrypted platforms for online sessions to keep your information safe.
  • I blend Eastern and Western therapeutic practices to create a treatment plan that’s right for you.
  • I stay updated with the latest research and methods to make sure you get the best care. My specialties include Lacanian Psychoanalysis, Buddhist Psychotherapy, mindfulness and Schema Therapy.
  • I’m committed to ongoing professional development and providing supervision to other therapists, so I’m always learning and growing in my practice.

I only take on clients who are a good fit for my methods and are committed to the therapy process. This means being open to exploring how your past affects your present and being ready to work through difficult issues. Initial sessions are a valuable opportunity to trial the method and see if there is a fit.

Understanding your needs

Psychotherapy takes time. We’ll work together to understand your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. Over time, many people start to feel more in control of their lives and emotions.

If you’re curious about why you think, feel, and act the way you do—and are ready to explore these questions—my approach could be right for you.

I know that symptom relief is important to you, but focusing too much on symptoms can make things worse. It’s a bit like trying to fall asleep—the more you try, the harder it can be. Instead, we’ll work on understanding you better, which can bring natural relief.

Getting started

Therapy works best when you’re committed to prioritising our sessions with openness to exploring your deeper thoughts and feelings and establishing fresh perspectives.

If that sounds like you, I’d love to help. Here’s how to get started:

1. Book your session: You can call me at (03) 9557 9113 or book your appointment online.

2. Prepare for your session: For online appointments, I’ll send you a secure form to fill out and a link to our virtual waiting room. For in-person appointments, you’ll receive an email confirmation and an intake form to complete before your visit.

My role is to help you understand this ‘lack’ in a new way. Instead of trying to figure out your unconscious alone, you share it with me, and together we can turn that understanding into lasting change. We begin with conversation, and as trust builds, you might be invited to lie on the couch—a practice that helps deepen your self-reflection.

You can claim Medicare rebates with a valid Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP). Bulk-billing is not available. You or your GP can email me, or fax your referral to 03 9124 1522.

I also accept NDIS self-managed and plan-managed clients on a case by case basis. Please contact me before booking if you are an NDIS participant.

Is it time to work on you?

Book an Appointment
View therapists who do in-clinic

Start Your Therapy Journey Today—Choose Online or In-Clinic Above