Shamila Kumara

Shamila Kumara

Clinical Psychologist

  • Bachelor of Psychology with Honours

  • Masters of Clinical Psychology

Meet Shamila

Shamila is a warm and inquisitive clinical psychologist dedicated to fostering a nurturing and non-judgmental environment for her clients. With a wealth of experience gained from both private practice and public mental health settings, Shamila brings a unique perspective to her work at MyLife.

Throughout her career, Shamila has had the privilege of assisting individuals from diverse backgrounds in navigating the complexities of their lives. By delving into each client’s personal narrative, she seeks to uncover the underlying patterns in their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours that may be impacting their growth and wellbeing.

Shamila’s work with complex presentations in public health has helped hone her skills in addressing a wide range of psychological issues, including addictions, psychosis and trauma. She is particularly passionate about employing evidence-based approaches such as Schema Therapy to tailor interventions that suit each client’s needs. Her clinical interests extends to substance use concerns, complex trauma, and culturally competent treatment, ensuring that individuals receive personalised care.

Through collaborative engagement, Shamila empowers her clients to explore their experiences and develop effective strategies for managing their concerns. With genuine regard and empathy, she cultivates a therapeutic alliance that serves as a safe and meaningful space for growth.

Based in Melbourne, Shamila offers sessions via video to clients of MyLife. She works with culturally diverse populations in Melbourne, and outside of her work, she enjoys the vibrant culture of Melbourne, whilst also enjoying team sports, coastal walks, and spotting passing dogs.

Shamila Kumara psychologist

Areas of special interest

  • Mood disorders  including depression, bipolar disorder, and pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder

  • Anxiety disorders including specific phobias, panic attacks, health anxiety, social anxiety and perfectionism

  • Substance use issues and addictions

  • Adjustment difficulties (e.g. major life transitions, workplace difficulties, burnout)

  • Trauma presentations including complex trauma, PTSD and acute trauma related stress

  • Relationship and interpersonal difficultes

  • Grief and loss

  • Schema Therapy

Therapeutic approaches

  • Schema Therapy

  • Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)

  • Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
  • Cognitive Processing Therapy

  • Motivational Enhancement Therapy

Memberships & registrations

  • Full registration with AHPRA and the Psychology Board of Australia (PSY0002268949)

  • Registration to provide Clinical Psychology services with Medicare

  • Endorsement in Clinical Psychology

Availability

Shamila sees adults online via video on Thursdays.