Marie Vakakis's Linkedin Analytics

I’m a dog-loving, hiking enthusiast with a bad habit of leaving tea cups everywhere! When I'm not out enjoying nature or practicing yoga, I'm deeply committed to improving mental health and well-being. With a background in Social Work, Adolescent Development, as well as Couple and Family Therapy, I bring a unique blend of passion and expertise to my work. From competitive Uno games [I play to win] and mindful colouring with teens and navigating conflicts in couples counselling, I truly enjoy every aspect of helping individuals and families thrive. My journey in this field has been shaped by a solid foundation, including a Bachelor of Arts from Monash University, a Masters of Social Work and a Graduate Diploma in Youth Mental Health from The University of Melbourne and a Masters of Family Therapy from La Trobe University. I've also undergone training in Gottman Couples Therapy and EMDR Therapy. Beyond my practice, I host the Podcast This Complex Life. I've had the privilege of guest lecturing in the MSW course at the University of Melbourne and playing a vital role in social work student field education as a university liaison and supervisor for The University of Melbourne and RMIT. I run Mental Health First Aid training and Tuning into Teens. My specialties include adolescent and adult psychotherapy, addressing anxiety, depression, and psychological distress, offering couples therapy, and providing parent guidance and education. I'm also passionate about training school staff and workplaces in mental health and well-being and making mental health education engaging and accessible for parents.