- Nancy McWilliams
Mr Ashley White
Counselling Psychologist, Clinical Supervisor
Mosaic Psychology
South Yarra, Melbourne VIC 3141
In Person + Telehealth
Philosophy & Vision
Being a therapist is not just a job for me. It's part of who I am, and I wouldn't have it any other way. That means when we work together, you have my clinical expertise and my genuine care and investment. It makes therapy more effective, more efficient, and less painful.
Background
I've always been excited about the prospect of recovery and growth after trauma, and much of my experience has involved supporting survivors of trauma, child abuse and neglect. I've also run support groups for new dads in specialty hospital settings; co-facilitated groups for people experiencing dissociation; supported veterans in crisis; helped couples undergoing IVF; consulted to therapeutic residential care units for young survivors of abuse and neglect; volunteered as a live-in mentor for children in out-of-home care; counselled students paralyzed by perfectionism and anxiety; helped men have non-violent relationships; and worked on suicide helplines with the most desperate and hurting people.
Services
It gets full-on at times. Life feels demanding, people seem harsh or confusing, the hurt feels overwhelming, and the answers seem so far away. Other times, you’re left wondering what the point of it all is, and whether there is more to life.
I know, because I’ve been there.
Trust is earned, and I expect to have to earn yours. I’ll start by treating you as a unique individual. No cookie-cutter therapy approaches. We will come up with ways that are tailor-made for your specific problems, circumstances, and personal strengths.
It feels really good to be listened to, understood, and supported. Gaining clarity, a kinder attitude towards yourself, and a set of tools to navigate life will be worth the effort.
Let me know when you’re ready!
Areas of Special Interest
Accreditations
- Master of Counselling Psychology - 2017 - La Trobe University
- Postgraduate Diploma of Psychology - 2011 - Swinburne University of Technology
- Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology) - 2007 - Swinburne University of Technology
Modalities
Attachment Theory - Existential - Experiential - Integrative - Mindfulness - Person Centred - Trauma-Informed
Therapy Approach
I'm most enthusiastic about Emotion Focused Therapy, as it fits with my natural inclination to value emotions and incorporates what we understand about attachment in relationships, including the relationship between therapist and client. It's a powerful and evidence-based therapeutic approach that has been shown to work with a range of mental disorders and general mental health issues. I'm internationally certified as an Emotion Focused Therapy Practitioner.
In reality, though, I'm a true pragmatist. I see no problems with being informed by neuroscientific explanatory models of human experience and relationships, at the same time as being sensitive to existential themes in clients' narratives about their lives.
Practice Locations
Suite 208, 122 Toorak Road
South Yarra VIC 3141
Unmetered 1- and 2-hour street parking available. Easily accessible by train/tram.
Appointments
Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays.
Evening appointments available.
Fees & Insurance
The cost of a standard 50-minute consultation is $190, payable in full at the end of each session. For those with a GP referral and Mental Health Treatment Plan, Medicare provides rebates for a number of sessions per year.
Payment Options
EFTPOS, cash
Contact Ashley
Please contact me to make an appointment
A conversation with Ashley White
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I've always struggled with superficial conversation, preferring to hear about what is meaningful to people. The idea of discussing what matters most and finding ways to help move towards that with purpose sounded like something I wanted to do for the rest of my life. I still pinch myself everyday, knowing I get to do this for a living.
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The way we 'do' emotions influences how we view ourselves and others, and how we act in the world. I'm convinced that in an effort to cope, many people develop creative ways to interfere with natural emotional processes, ultimately hurting or limiting themselves by doing so. Most people who find their way to therapy need help understanding and undoing these ways of coping, and finding alternative ways to cope and live.
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So often our basic human needs seem to be in competition. For example, many people try to balance their need for connection with others with their need for emotional safety, which can create a kind of approach/avoid dynamic. Reconciling the tension created by these apparently contrasting needs is very meaningful for me.
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I'm most enthusiastic about Emotion Focused Therapy, as it fits with my natural inclination to value emotions and incorporates what we understand about attachment in relationships, including the relationship between therapist and client. It's a powerful and evidence-based therapeutic approach that has been shown to work with a range of mental disorders and general mental health issues. I'm internationally certified as an Emotion Focused Therapy Practitioner.
In reality, though, I'm a true pragmatist. I see no problems with being informed by neuroscientific explanatory models of human experience and relationships, at the same time as being sensitive to existential themes in clients' narratives about their lives.
You may have heard about some mainstream approaches like Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). We can draw from these where appropriate, whilst mining the wisdom contained within classic literature, film, and Western and Eastern philosophy in order to help you. Approaching therapy in this way helps to ensure we don't shut the door to something that you might benefit from. Your reasons for coming to therapy are unique, so the therapy needs to be tailored to you. -
When clients find the courage to go to places that they fear, and 'come out the other side' of a painful topic or area of their lives still emotionally intact.
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Self-awareness is the master variable in life. It gives you greater control over your actions and helps you live a more deliberate and satisfying life. I've experienced first-hand how therapy helps to build this awareness and empower you in the process.
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That moment after a difficult journey into a painful place gives way to a full-belly laugh with a client.
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Literally? No - my bald head is always... well, the same.
Figuratively? Sure - I try to own them and be transparent about bad hair days, though. I think it's the only way. -
Shame. I'm convinced most of the collective problems we face are either caused or exacerbated by the ways we cope with feelings of defectiveness or inadequacy. Anger, greed, violence, alienation, dishonesty, consumerism, lack of compassion - you name it.
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'The Death of Socrates' by Jacques-Louis David. Such an immortalizing of a hero for truth.