PMDD, PCOS and Menopause
Hormonal health conditions carry significant psychological dimensions that are often under-recognised. Psychological support can help you manage mood, improve sleep, and navigate life with these conditions.
THE CONDITIONS
Real experiences, often minimised.
PMDD, PCOS, and menopause each involve significant psychological symptoms that deserve serious clinical attention. These are not "just hormones."
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
PMDD is characterised by severe mood symptoms that occur in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle and resolve shortly after menstruation begins. Around 3 to 8% of people with menstrual cycles experience PMDD. Symptoms can include extreme mood swings, irritability, depression, anxiety, and difficulty functioning in daily life.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
PCOS is a hormonal condition affecting around 1 in 10 people with ovaries. Beyond its physical features, PCOS is associated with elevated rates of anxiety, depression, and body image difficulties, often compounded by the challenges of living with a chronic health condition that is frequently misunderstood or undertreated.
Perimenopause and Menopause
The perimenopause and menopause transition can involve significant mood changes, sleep disruption, cognitive changes, and identity shifts alongside physical symptoms. These psychological dimensions are often under-recognised in medical settings and can significantly affect quality of life and relationships.
PSYCHOLOGICAL SYMPTOMS
How hormonal conditions affect mental health.
Severe mood swings, irritability, or anger
Persistent low mood or feelings of hopelessness
Anxiety, tension, or feeling on edge
Difficulty concentrating or brain fog
Sleep disturbances and persistent fatigue
Changes in appetite or food cravings
Reduced confidence or self-esteem
Relationship strain related to mood changes
HOW PSYCHOLOGY CAN HELP
Complementing medical care.
Psychological support can complement your medical management of hormonal health conditions. Our psychologists use evidence-based approaches to help you manage mood symptoms, develop coping strategies, improve sleep, and navigate the psychological dimensions of living with these conditions.
We work alongside your GP, gynaecologist, or other medical providers where applicable, and can provide written reports or letters of support for medical appointments when helpful.
Cognitive-behavioural therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness-based approaches all have evidence for managing mood difficulties associated with hormonal conditions. Your psychologist will work with you to identify the most appropriate approach.
OUR PSYCHOLOGISTS
Informed support for hormonal health.
Lucy Adlard
Psychologist
Lucy brings particular sensitivity to the psychological dimensions of hormonal health conditions. She provides evidence-based support that complements medical management, and creates a space where clients feel genuinely understood.
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Rivkah Bendet
Psychologist
Rivkah works with mood difficulties related to hormonal health conditions, including in the context of neurodivergence. She uses evidence-based approaches to help clients manage symptoms, build coping strategies, and reduce the burden these conditions can place on daily life.
View full profileFREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Common questions about PMDD, PCOS and menopause support.
No. These require medical assessment through your GP or a specialist, including any blood work or physical examination. What psychological support addresses is the mood, anxiety and cognitive impact of these conditions, which is often significant and frequently under-recognised.
Hormonal fluctuations influence the same neurochemical systems involved in mood regulation, sleep and attention, which is why premenstrual, postpartum and perimenopausal periods can bring mood instability, anxiety and difficulty concentrating. These experiences are real and clinically significant rather than something to manage alone.
No. You can book directly with any of our psychologists without a GP referral. A referral is only needed if you want to claim the Medicare rebate, which requires a Mental Health Care Plan prepared by your GP. Appointments are available in person at our St Kilda clinic and by telehealth across Australia.
Sessions with our registered psychologists are $260.30 before 4pm and $270.45 from 4pm. With a valid Mental Health Care Plan from your GP you can claim a Medicare rebate of $101.55 per session for up to 10 sessions per calendar year. The rebate is processed on the spot, so you pay the gap only.
Lucy Adlard and Rivkah Bendet work with PMDD, PCOS and menopause related presentations at our St Kilda clinic. You can read each of their profiles on our team page, or use our matching questionnaire if you would like help choosing.
Your experience deserves to be taken seriously.
No referral required. Contact us to discuss how we can support you alongside your medical team.