MATT

Matt Hallam, Psychologist in Kew, Melbourne.

Who We Are

Matt Hallam

Psychologist

Matt Hallam, psychologist in Kew, Melbourne, with his pug Tyson.

Hey, I’m Matt Hallam, as a psychologist, I’m passionate about helping people understand and accept themselves, just as they are. Life brings its challenges, and I believe we can find ways to work with these challenges, embracing a life of self-awareness and balance.

Acceptance-Based Therapy for Self-Understanding

Here in Kew or online

Blending reflective practices and strength-based strategies, my approach focuses on empowering adults to understand their patterns, giving them a chance to break free.

As a psychologist I’ve worked with hundreds of clients, and so often I see how we fight against ourselves – should-ing ourselves into impossible positions and repeating the same patterns, over and over.

Our brains are shaped by our past experiences, often forming patterns we might not see clearly. Acceptance means recognising these behaviours for what they are—parts of our brain’s wiring. By understanding and reflecting on them, we create space for meaningful change and growth.

Support From an Experienced Psychologist for Anxiety, Low Mood, ADHD, and Life Transitions

  • Acceptance based therapy
  • Strength based approaches
  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
  • Psychoanalytic foundations

I’m particularly passionate about supporting adults with ADHD, anxiety, and low mood. These experiences often bring unique perspectives and challenges, and I enjoy helping clients reflect on their stories, find self-acceptance, and explore new ways to navigate their world authentically.

I’m always surprised by the topics that come up, once trust and rapport has been established, it often feels that no topic is out of bounds. So often I am the only person to hear these tales. I always treat you with respect and am forever grateful for your trust.

How I Work as a Psychologist

My therapy style is conversational, reflective, and collaborative. Together, we explore what’s beneath the surface, finding practical strategies that feel right for you. Each session is a safe, open space where you can share freely, dig into self-understanding, and find ways to move forward with greater acceptance and self-awareness.

The Role of Self-Reflection

Self-understanding is at the heart of growth. It’s not about having all the answers; it’s about staying curious, observing your behaviours without judgement, and asking yourself what’s truly going on. Through reflection and acceptance, new paths for wellbeing can emerge.

What to Expect in Therapy with Matt

  • Support for ADHD, anxiety, and low mood
  • Reflective, strength-based sessions tailored to you
  • A safe, relaxed environment to explore self-understanding
  • Practical strategies to enhance your wellbeing

Tyson: Your Therapy Companion

You’ll often find my pug, Tyson, by my side. He’s a friendly little guy—happiest on my lap or in front of food—ready to say hello.

Therapy is about exploration and discovery—a way to find acceptance and navigate life more authentically. If that sounds like something you’d like to explore, I’d be happy to connect.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Matt’s approach to therapy, and how might it benefit me?

Matt’s approach is rooted in understanding how our brain works and how our past shapes its wiring. We all have behaviours that stem from this wiring—some we like, and others we don’t. Acceptance is about recognising these behaviours and reflecting on what’s really happening underneath. This is where change begins: seeing patterns for what they are, understanding the complexities of our brain and experiences, and embracing the possibility of reshaping them over time. It’s not a quick fix, but through self-understanding and acceptance, you can start to navigate your challenges with greater clarity and confidence.

How does Matt personalise each session to suit my needs?

Matt takes a collaborative approach to tailor therapy sessions to your unique story and challenges. By helping you explore how your brain’s wiring affects your behaviours and experiences, he encourages acceptance—not just of yourself, but also of the often harsh realities of the world. Sessions are designed to support you in making sense of your experiences, accepting them for what they are, and finding practical strategies to navigate life’s ups and downs.

Why does Matt value acceptance?

Matt values acceptance because it provides a grounded perspective on life. The world can be unfair, unpredictable, and challenging—factors we often have no control over. But instead of feeling powerless, Matt believes that recognising these difficulties as part of life allows you to see things more clearly and work with them. Acceptance isn’t about resigning yourself to circumstances; it’s about acknowledging what is, understanding your brain’s responses to these realities, and then finding ways to navigate and adapt in a way that promotes well-being.

Why did Matt choose to focus on areas like ADHD, anxiety, and low mood?

When working with Matt, you can expect a safe, open space where the complexities of life are recognised without sugar-coating. Sessions involve reflecting on how your brain’s wiring affects your experiences and behaviour, accepting these patterns for what they are, and creating a plan to navigate life’s realities. Matt encourages you to get comfortable, take off your shoes if you’d like, and engage in reflective discussions aimed at fostering deeper self-understanding, acceptance, and positive change over time.

Is Tyson friendly?

Yes, Tyson is a friendly pug, but he’s a daddy’s boy. He’ll come over to say hi, but his favourite place is on Matt’s lap or in front of food. If you love pugs, you’ll likely have a friend in Tyson too!

How does Matt support clients with ADHD through therapy and resources?

Matt’s therapy sessions and practical resources, like the ADHD reflective planners, support self-reflection and self-management. He understands how ADHD impacts brain wiring and behaviour, helping you see how these patterns play out in your daily life. Through a focus on acceptance and self-understanding, Matt works with you to identify ways to work with your ADHD, understand its roots, and develop tailored strategies that lead to a greater sense of balance and empowerment.

How do I know if Matt is the right psychologist for me?

To help you decide if Matt’s approach feels right, Equal Psychology offers free 15-minute meet and greets. This gives you the opportunity to discuss your concerns, understand Matt’s perspective on acceptance and brain wiring, and see if his approach aligns with your needs. His goal is to provide a reflective and supportive space where you can openly explore your experiences and decide if this path resonates with you.

MAAPi logo white