Mrs Leif Lawson
Psychotherapist, Counsellor
Leif Lawson Counselling
Balmain, Sydney NSW 2041
In Person + Telehealth
Philosophy & Vision
I offer a warm and empathetic space within which you can safely share what is on your mind and work through the challenges you are facing. I take a holistic approach to counselling, and believe that trust between a client and therapist is the cornerstone of effective counselling. Together we will work towards you developing a stronger, healthier and more secure sense of self.
Background
Prior to becoming a counsellor, I had a wide ranging career working in both the university and health & fitness industries. I also have extensive life experience gained in part through living in many different parts of the world.
Services
Among the issues I have worked through with previous clients are: low self-esteem; identity challenges, including their sexuality; the pain of loss and bereavement; the stress from work, study and family demands; relationship breakdown; as well as anxiety and depression. I am also committed to working with people from all genders, all ethnic backgrounds and sexual identities.
Areas of Special Interest
Accreditations
- PG Diploma in Human Relations & Counselling - 2018 - Human Relations Scotland
- Grad Certificate in Counselling - 2014 - Edinburgh Napier University
Modalities
Attachment Theory - Mindfulness - Person Centred - Psychodynamic - Solution Oriented
Therapy Approach
My aim is to work with you so that you become more self-aware and thus able to improve your understanding of how the past is influencing your current behaviour. Together we will explore the unresolved and often unconscious issues that are inhibiting your ability to lead a happy and fulfilled life today.
Within the therapeutic relationship we will therefore explore the full range of your emotions, thoughts, past experiences and beliefs, with the view to developing a holistic picture of the drivers of your present emotional state. Only once we really understand the underlying source of your unwanted feelings or behaviours can we find ways to change them.
Professional Associations
- Australian Counselling Association - Level 2
- British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy
Practice Locations
2 Booth Street
Balmain NSW 2041
Balmain - off street parking around Booth Street and 1 hour free parking in Woolworth's car park.
Greenwich - short walk from St Leonards train station, parking in neighbouring streets or meter parking.
157 Pacific Highway
Greenwich NSW 2065
Appointments
Balmain - Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays
Greenwich - Fridays
Fees & Insurance
All sessions in person or via Telehealth are $120.
Payment Options
Payment via bank transfer or by card in person.
Contact Leif
Please contact me to make an appointment
A conversation with Leif Lawson
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I feel I was always driven to the 'helping professions' from a young age. Being of an introverted nature, I enjoy listening and observing and noticed that this came in handy as I developed and moved into my career.
I'm always thinking about what makes us 'tick' as humans, why we behave as we do and how our early attachments and experiences help shape us as to WHO we are today.
After many years working in the tertiary education field, I decided to make my hobby of yoga/fitness into a part time job. During these years, I discovered my love of helping people through fitness and movement (often whilst listening to them and their needs or woes with life), that I decided one day I would train in mental health.
Post motherhood, I decided it was time to go and make that dream come true, so I did. I retrained for 3 years and haven't looked back. Finding psychotherapy has been an amazing and challenging journey.