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Places We Love: Collingwood
- justintrounson
- Jun 5
- 3 min read
At Connected Minds Psychology, we believe that healing, connection and growth don’t only happen inside a clinic room — they happen through community. That’s why our practice was purposefully designed as a welcoming, calm and inclusive space in the heart of Collingwood, a neighbourhood we’re proud to call home.
Nestled just south of Johnston Street, Connected Minds is surrounded by vibrant, creative, and community-minded local businesses that reflect the values we hold dear: authenticity, connection and wellbeing. In this first post of our “Places We Love” series, we’re sharing a few of the Collingwood spots that fill our days with good food, inspiration and meaningful moments.
📍46 Oxford St, Collingwood
This eclectic café is more than just a go-to for coffee—it’s a community hub. Whether we’re finishing some admin on the couch before a session or catching up with friends or family over brunch, SoJo’s cosy vibe, welcoming staff and warm fireplace always offer a sense of home. It’s the kind of place where people know your name, and that means a lot to us. Stephanie rates SoJo to have the best corn fritters in Melbourne.
📍2/27 Budd St, Collingwood
For those of us at Connected Minds who turn to movement and hot and cold exposure as part of our self-care, INNER is a gem. This thoughtfully designed leafy studio is all about balance, inner strength and connection, values that align perfectly with our therapeutic approach. Breathwork classes followed by a group sauna and cold plunge are the perfect way to get out of your head and into your body. They also run live vinyl sets during summer, if you like a bit of music with your cold plunge.
📍302 Smith St, Collingwood
Food for mood - nutrition and mental wellbeing go hand-in-hand, and Alimentary does food that nourishes both body and mind. Their Mediterranean-inspired menu and warm hospitality make it a perfect lunch spot for a team debrief or a solo reset. We love their commitment to quality, local ingredients. The Kale Caesar Salad with anchovy dressing is an absolute must try!
📍183 Smith St, Fitzroy
Just a short walk from our practice, The Source is a favourite for those who care about sustainability and mindful living. Bulk wholefoods, eco-friendly home goods, and a community-first ethos make this shop a quiet powerhouse of Collingwood’s wellness culture. Samantha from The Source ensures our team space is well stocked with wholesome and yummy between session snacks - the dark chocolate almonds are the most popular item in our clinic kitchen!
📍28A Stanley St, Collingwood
Connection doesn’t always happen in daylight hours. The Moon is our go-to for low-key, intimate gatherings after work. It’s warm and unpretentious - think natural wines, thoughtful design and a rotating menu that never disappoints. Perfect for celebrating small wins and big ideas. There is always room for charcuterie at The Moon!
📍73 Rupert St, Collingwood
Photo by courtney.laura.photography
A true Collingwood icon. Rupert on Rupert is a beautiful collision of industrial design and lush greenery. We love it for team dinners, meeting friends or just soaking up the ambiance. This cool mid-century bar and restaurant captures the creativity and hospitality that defines our incredible neighbourhood. One of the Connected Minds team members even had their wedding here!
Why Community Matters to Us
At Connected Minds Psychology, we believe mental health is intrinsically linked to the environments we’re part of. That’s why we’ve designed our practice not only as a space for therapy, but also as a community resource - a place where people in Collingwood, Fitzroy, Clifton Hill, Abbotsford, Carlton and surrounds can feel grounded and supported.
We’re proud to be part of this neighbourhood, and we’ll continue sharing more of the places and people who inspire us. (Watch out for our secret local chilli oil hook-up in our next post!)
Stay tuned for more in our Places We Love series, and next time you’re walking the streets of Collingwood, drop in and say hello - we’d love to connect.
