Psychotherapists and Counsellors Answer your Questions

One of the reasons why I chose this profession was because I always had a strong desire to help others and to assist people with the challenges of daily living. I also witnessed therapy creating...

One of the reasons why I chose this profession was because I always had a strong desire to help others and to assist people with the challenges of daily living. I also witnessed therapy creating positive change for many individuals. Another reason why I was led to choose this line of work was because I was seeking meaningful work by making a difference in peoples lives. It’s also an industry where life experience is valued & I wanted to achieve a feeling of purpose and fulfilment in the work I did. Giving back to the community was also a reason why I chose to become a therapist.

A strong interest in understanding my own and others' internal worlds and relationships as well as a desire to help others in their lives.

A strong interest in understanding my own and others' internal worlds and relationships as well as a desire to help others in their lives.

I struggled with complicated bereavement in my 20's. In my 30's, I went to a grief counsellor, who knew what to say, how to say it and when to say it. I left her therapy room feeling heard,...

I struggled with complicated bereavement in my 20's. In my 30's, I went to a grief counsellor, who knew what to say, how to say it and when to say it. I left her therapy room feeling heard, understood and validated, in a way no one else ever had. I decided that day, I would train to be a therapist so I could one day, offer that to someone else.

Art and literature explore what it is to be a human being and some art works and books explore psychoanalysis in particular. Studying counselling and then psychoanalysis was a logical extension of my...

Art and literature explore what it is to be a human being and some art works and books explore psychoanalysis in particular. Studying counselling and then psychoanalysis was a logical extension of my interest in these themes and practices. My work is, among other things, about freedom of expression. More accurately, it's concerned with free-speak, an ever-emergent practice in the present tense, rather than a formal creed or principle. Some of you may know that my father was part of the violent suppression of the Welsh language. This meant that he and his fellow primary-aged students were hit by their teachers if they were heard speaking Welsh in the attempt to eradicate the Welsh language and culture one child at a time (a language which is now flourishing). I was a child myself when he told me about this, so I've long valued the rights of people to speak their own language, in their own way. This extends to the freedom to speak and write more broadly. You probably know about PEN International, but let me remind you. PEN brings into practice the principle of freedom of expression by defending the rights that ensue - they protect, shelter and resettle writers at risk of harm, imprisonment or death. They also conduct research, promote suppressed world literature, provide advice, advocacy and access to legal help and more. I donate a percentage of each counselling and supervision session fee to them. In this way I feel that I support the individual to speak in the session, and together we support the individual to write (and speak) in the world. I encourage you to connect with their work, here: https://www.pen-international.org/what-we-do

I was searching for my calling and I explored different career paths to find meaning. From fashion to IT to HR. For over 12 years I volunteered in Church and underprivileged schools in India. With all...

I was searching for my calling and I explored different career paths to find meaning. From fashion to IT to HR. For over 12 years I volunteered in Church and underprivileged schools in India. With all the experience, the common area which I enjoyed and felt I belong was in the space of being for another person who needs support. That realisation lead to my studies in psychotherapy/counselling.

This profession was always something I knew was meant for me. I decided on this pathway at the age of 12 and although had hit the usual stumbling blocks along the way, I eventually found my place. I...

This profession was always something I knew was meant for me. I decided on this pathway at the age of 12 and although had hit the usual stumbling blocks along the way, I eventually found my place. I come from a big family - immediate and extended - so from an early age I understood the variety of personalities and characters that can emerge from the one source and how they interact and interplay with one another. This led me to observing the same thing in my friendship groups and soon led to me playing the unofficial counsellor role; a role that fit like a second skin.

From a young age, I remember watching people curiously. As I grew, I started to see something I didn't like. I saw people living unfulfilled lives. I grew a little more and joined the millions of...

From a young age, I remember watching people curiously. As I grew, I started to see something I didn't like. I saw people living unfulfilled lives. I grew a little more and joined the millions of people caught up in 'the rat race' 'earning a living' 'getting by'. But unlike many around me, I never did learn to accept this way of being. Why? Because beauty. I was raised into beauty. Music filled my veins, delivering beauty not oxygen to the extremities of my being. I was trained to see beauty. Therefore, where I saw some living from a state of survival, I also saw those living from a place of soul. I saw artists consumed by their work, I saw mothers embody their role, I saw musicians become one with instruments and husbands dote on their wives the same in their later years as they did in their youth. From this I knew, to live a beautiful life, a life of soul, was possible. A windy road delivered me to my thirties, more or less in one piece. Admittedly, a very different piece than the one which I entered my late teens and twenties. When the world changed in 2020, a simple question soothed my feelings of overwhelm. When the world made me feel small, and helpless, I asked what is the next smallest thing I can do to make this better? And then I went for a walk. Still on that same walk, four years later, my next smallest thing, is to write this Bio. And then shortly after that I might graduate with my degree... And from there maybe help someone. And the ripple effect of the next smallest thing accumulates to living a life of beaty, a life of soul.

In my previous life as a musician, aspects I loved were collaborating and creating with other people to create something that individually we wouldn't have arrived at on our own. I find a similar...

In my previous life as a musician, aspects I loved were collaborating and creating with other people to create something that individually we wouldn't have arrived at on our own. I find a similar process happens in therapy, working with clients to explore their experience and find a new and fresh approach that they or I wouldn't have come up with in isolation. This can be both fun and daunting. But finding new ways of living and approaching difficult experiences is much safer and easier with another person and perspective to lean on.

I've always been curious about why people are the way they are. I'm naturally drawn to subjects like psychology and sociology, and I love having conversations with people about their lives,...

I've always been curious about why people are the way they are. I'm naturally drawn to subjects like psychology and sociology, and I love having conversations with people about their lives, relationships and how they make meaning.

I have always reached out to those around me in need of help. In my 20s I realized I myself needed help and this was the start of a wonderful journey of self-discovery and healing. I now look back on...

I have always reached out to those around me in need of help. In my 20s I realized I myself needed help and this was the start of a wonderful journey of self-discovery and healing. I now look back on this with deep gratitude and feel called to help others as I have been. I believe that exploring and uncovering what is really going on for someone and helping them to discover the true wonder of themselves is precious. I feel blessed to work with people in this way. Everyone deserves to feel inner peace and a sense of completeness and cost, background or age should not be a barrier. One does not become enlightened by imagining figures of light, but by making the darkness conscious' Carl Jung

I have always been a curious observer of others so psychology made sense because it is a study of human experience and behaviour. Becoming a psychologist and counsellor has been a natural and...

I have always been a curious observer of others so psychology made sense because it is a study of human experience and behaviour. Becoming a psychologist and counsellor has been a natural and enjoyable progression for me.

I had a moment of passion in 2015 (at 43 years old), for the first time in my life, where I realised my calling was to support people experiencing emotional issues that were negatively impacting their...

I had a moment of passion in 2015 (at 43 years old), for the first time in my life, where I realised my calling was to support people experiencing emotional issues that were negatively impacting their behaviour and quality of life. That day, in my old corporate style I came up with a 90-day plan to change careers. I then transitioned from corporate finance to counselling via yoga teaching, wellness coaching and mindfulness meditation teaching, while getting clear on the right counselling course for me which was to have an experiential and practical basis. The psychological skills I've learnt from all of these studies, and just as importantly, my life experience of struggle, stress, and loss, have allowed me to do this work full time; be inspired by my clients, and be nourished by living true to my values and strengths.

My inner growth brought me to Buddhist practice, and that in turn evolved into me becoming a counsellor dedicating myself to support others find the same inner peace and growth.

My inner growth brought me to Buddhist practice, and that in turn evolved into me becoming a counsellor dedicating myself to support others find the same inner peace and growth.

I have always been fascinated by the human mind, and it was through theatre, literature and philosophy that I originally pursued this interest. My own journey of self-discovery and healing led me to...

I have always been fascinated by the human mind, and it was through theatre, literature and philosophy that I originally pursued this interest. My own journey of self-discovery and healing led me to undertake my own personal therapy (an essential experience for anyone interested in becoming a therapist). This eventually led to me becoming a psychotherapist myself.

In my twenties I was a special education art teacher, awakening to the inner world's of my students and to the therapeutic elements of creative expression in whatever form: art, crafts, music, song,...

In my twenties I was a special education art teacher, awakening to the inner world's of my students and to the therapeutic elements of creative expression in whatever form: art, crafts, music, song, dance, movement, drama etc. I was very curious. As a special education junior lecturer on a postgrad in special ed'n, UofM, some of my colleagues alerted me to T.A., Transactional Analysis, Human Relations groups, encounter groups, all of which I entered into experiencing, exploring, reading about. My inner life, the inner lief of my students, the human condition in general became quite absorbing . I attended encounter group marathons, Gestalt group weekend, Reichian & Bioenergetic workshops, then stumbled across Psychodrama via my HOD. All were places in differing forms where the inner and interpersonal were emphasised and allowed, enabled and facilitated. Psychodrama was entrancing from the outset. As I developed slowly in the lecturing role, as I felt into the value of making a difference to students and as I noticed skill and sensitivity, capacity and talent emerging within me, little by little, a new pathway slid into hazy view. I led Human Relations groups for the graduate student teachers to evolve in their own unique ways. In this period most of my colleagues were US imported academics in Special Education, some of whom I became close with, PhD's, Professors. This revealed that in the US Higher Education system, opportunities that did not exist at all in Australia were available. I applied to and was accepted into three US universities, choosing the University of Oregon, Eugene, I embarked with a need to develop much more in the realms of my intellect, knowings and skilled practice, with a view to studying in the field of Counselling Psychology.

When I initially entered university I knew I wanted to work with children, but I didn't want to be a teacher. My own childhood experiences and upbringing led me to this desire. I remember somebody...

When I initially entered university I knew I wanted to work with children, but I didn't want to be a teacher. My own childhood experiences and upbringing led me to this desire. I remember somebody mentioning doing Social Work, but I didn't really have any idea what that was. So I did some research and discovered that volunteer work was a prerequisite for entering a post graduate in Social Work. I eventually found voluntary work with very challenging and disengaged children. I remember being told to f*** off by an 8 year old and having to coax them down from the roof of the building in my second week of being there. I was hooked! The rest is history....

My path to psychotherapy was shaped by a lifelong fascination with the complexities of the human experience—life, death, and the spaces in between. From early on, I sought to understand how...

My path to psychotherapy was shaped by a lifelong fascination with the complexities of the human experience—life, death, and the spaces in between. From early on, I sought to understand how people make meaning from their stories and express their inner worlds through art, dreams, and other creative outlets. This curiosity led me to diverse roles—supporting young people in Montessori arts education, working with individuals facing disabilities or life-threatening illnesses, and helping the disadvantaged and elderly navigate their journeys. It wasn't until my mid-thirties that I fully realised my calling as a psychotherapist. My own experiences—marked by both struggle and growth—taught me the power of connection and the importance of finding meaning in our stories. The more I engaged in this work, the more I felt compelled to support others in their journeys of self-discovery, healing, and transformation, much like the ways I’ve been guided and sometimes lacked guidance myself. This work continually inspires and challenges me, and it is here that I find a deep sense of purpose and fulfilment.

I chose social work and counselling because I’m passionate about making a difference in people’s lives. From a young age, I was drawn to helping others and advocating for those facing challenges....

I chose social work and counselling because I’m passionate about making a difference in people’s lives. From a young age, I was drawn to helping others and advocating for those facing challenges. Social work allows me to combine my skills, empathy, and dedication to support individuals and families in overcoming obstacles, building resilience, and finding hope. It’s more than a career for me—it’s a calling to create positive, lasting change.

I realised that some of my friends and family ask me for advise about their relationships or situations. They say that I am insightful, objective, have good listening skills and empathetic. So I...

I realised that some of my friends and family ask me for advise about their relationships or situations. They say that I am insightful, objective, have good listening skills and empathetic. So I decided to study counselling and social works so I can be empowered with knowledge and tools to effectively support my community.

I had a rough start to life, which ignited a burning desire to answer a simple question: why do people do what they do? As early as my teens I developed an interest in psychology and self-development,...

I had a rough start to life, which ignited a burning desire to answer a simple question: why do people do what they do? As early as my teens I developed an interest in psychology and self-development, which steadily evolved into a dream to become a psychotherapist. While the Enneagram has gone a long way in providing answers to that initial question, I am still driven by a curiosity to learn about people and to offer them understanding, rather than answers or quick fixes.

I chose this profession, for the sense of purpose that it gives me. The kind of work I get to do with people at really difficult or wonderful moments of their lives, I considered to be a valuable use...

I chose this profession, for the sense of purpose that it gives me. The kind of work I get to do with people at really difficult or wonderful moments of their lives, I considered to be a valuable use of my time. Assessing and formulating a problem and identifying its interconnecting pieces comes really naturally to me.

I was drawn to psychotherapy and counselling by a deep desire to help individuals navigate the complexities of their inner world. My journey into this profession was fueled by a commitment to mental...

I was drawn to psychotherapy and counselling by a deep desire to help individuals navigate the complexities of their inner world. My journey into this profession was fueled by a commitment to mental health and personal development and a passion for guiding others towards greater self-awareness, balance, and well-being. Having built my business focusing on honouring my mother's legacy, who passed away five years ago, I wanted to create a space where people feel seen, heard, and supported in their journeys. I am a PACFA registered counsellor, and my ICF ACC Coach background allows me to combine evidence-based approaches with a personalised, compassionate touch. I have always been inspired by the transformative power of psychotherapy, particularly in how it can help people connect with their true selves and foster meaningful change in their lives. My work is grounded in various therapeutic modalities, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Gottman theory, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). These approaches resonate with my belief in the importance of the ego and soul work and the value of cultivating mindfulness and self-compassion. Through Stabilise, I aim to create a supportive environment where clients can explore their inner worlds, overcome challenges, and ultimately lead more fulfilling lives.

Previously I worked in mental health recovery support in both inpatient and outpatient settings, provided psychological care to hundreds of people in drug-affected states as a Dancewize volunteer, and...

Previously I worked in mental health recovery support in both inpatient and outpatient settings, provided psychological care to hundreds of people in drug-affected states as a Dancewize volunteer, and have been active in drug law reform and environmental activism. Before entering mental health I had a career in communications, helping to foster the social enterprise, solar energy, and education sectors. I’ve worked and studied in many different areas, but over time common threads have emerged. I’ve realised that my path has always been shaped by a desire to understand how and why people change, what produces effective communication, and what is possible for humans both individually and collectively.

Most of my life people have been coming to me to share their stories and issues. In my first experience as a client in counselling I felt inspired and began to consider whether I wanted to be a...

Most of my life people have been coming to me to share their stories and issues. In my first experience as a client in counselling I felt inspired and began to consider whether I wanted to be a therapist myself. When I first started studying psychology it fit me, which was in stark contrast to what previous studies felt like. It feels like its genuinely me. People fascinate me and my curiosity and empathy in the work has not diminished in two decades. As a creative person, dealing with the complexities of people has been a very compelling challenge in adapting to what a specific person needs.

My interest in the unconscious and existential philosophy gave me early frameworks to understand my experience of being human. I wondered about unconscious and existential impacts on mental health,...

My interest in the unconscious and existential philosophy gave me early frameworks to understand my experience of being human. I wondered about unconscious and existential impacts on mental health, how others live with our level of consciousness, and how ideas within these fields may support people in navigating life. I became interested in therapy as a space where this could be explored. As I began working in the community sector, my interests expanded towards society. I learnt about the necessity to consider the social and historical contexts in which we are uniquely embedded, in order to understand mental, emotional, physical and spiritual wellbeing. I experienced and witnessed the benefits of therapy, felt it combined many of my different interests, and is a path that requires me to be authentic.

High school was hard. Not just for me, but a lot of my friends (and enemies), too. I wanted to be there for them, and as I got older I wanted to be there for lots of people. Once I started studying...

High school was hard. Not just for me, but a lot of my friends (and enemies), too. I wanted to be there for them, and as I got older I wanted to be there for lots of people. Once I started studying counselling, it just felt like the right fit for me. I tried other things too, but I always came back.

I've spent lot's of time with people from all walks of life and backgrounds and am an inherently curious person who tries to understand people and human relationships. I've always been a big reader...

I've spent lot's of time with people from all walks of life and backgrounds and am an inherently curious person who tries to understand people and human relationships. I've always been a big reader and enjoyed reading authors that understand the complexity of people and the human experience. I previously worked in physical health and found that the origins of people's physical suffering was often more complex than initially appeared. This lead me to want to understand people and human suffering at a deeper and more complex level.

After starting a postgraduate degree in Psychology, I realised I was much more interested in the counselling conversation than the rats and stats research-based approach of formal Psychology, so I...

After starting a postgraduate degree in Psychology, I realised I was much more interested in the counselling conversation than the rats and stats research-based approach of formal Psychology, so I changed my degree to Counselling, a choice I have never regretted. My own experience of receiving effective therapeutic support also led me to train so I could give back by providing support to others. I strongly believe that a therapist should have undergone their own therapy - both so that they are aware of their own issues and limitations, and also to ensure that every therapist has a sense of the process their clients are engaged in!

Since I was a little girl, I have always been passionate about understanding and supporting others on their journey of personal growth and well-being. I was naturally drawn to listening to people's...

Since I was a little girl, I have always been passionate about understanding and supporting others on their journey of personal growth and well-being. I was naturally drawn to listening to people's stories, offering a compassionate ear, and providing guidance during difficult times. This innate desire to help and make a positive impact led me to choose psychotherapy or counseling as a profession. Witnessing the transformative power of therapy in my own life and the lives of those around me further solidified my commitment to this path. It brings me immense joy to create a safe and supportive space for individuals to explore their emotions, gain insights, and navigate their unique journeys towards healing and self-discovery.

I believe in people's potential and knew I wanted to help people. I studied psychology at university and then went looking for something more meaningful to me and that's when I enrolled in the...

I believe in people's potential and knew I wanted to help people. I studied psychology at university and then went looking for something more meaningful to me and that's when I enrolled in the transpersonal counselling diploma. I started working with a psychotherapist and through my relationship with her and looking at my dreams I learnt about Jung, dreams and the process of Individuation.

I am passionate about working with people to achieve meanings in their life and helping make positive changes.

I am passionate about working with people to achieve meanings in their life and helping make positive changes.

Various life challenges, and the kind and magical strangers who moved me along the way, as well as a reverence for the web of life.

Various life challenges, and the kind and magical strangers who moved me along the way, as well as a reverence for the web of life.

Navigating a tumultuous path marked by cultural conditioning and disordered behaviours, Laura embarked on a quest for healing, confronting burnout, overwhelm, and anxiety. This journey led her through...

Navigating a tumultuous path marked by cultural conditioning and disordered behaviours, Laura embarked on a quest for healing, confronting burnout, overwhelm, and anxiety. This journey led her through a messy spiritual awakening, where she encountered both deception and wisdom, ultimately deciding to leave her job and immerse herself in somatics, psychotherapy, and philosophy.? Laura integrates somatic psychotherapy, counselling, yoga, embodiment, and bodywork to lead individuals on profound journeys of transformation. Her passion for somatic psychotherapy and creative expression movement stems from her own lived experience, where she confronted pain, shame, and trauma, once living outside her body due to a painful gynecological condition. Laura’s expertise encompasses trauma resolution, anxiety management, spiritual awakening support, and navigating intergenerational trauma, C-PTSD/PTSD, and nervous system regulation. She also has extensive experience working with dissociation, dysregulation, anxiety and trauma. Furthermore, Laura has facilitated various groups that empower women to reclaim their voice, expression, and connection to their bodies and selves. Her commitment to holistic healing is evident in her diverse studies from her Postgraduate Counselling & Psychotherapy degree accredited through PACFA and trained under renowned practitioners like Scott Lyons in Somatic Stress Release™ , Somatic Movement therapy, Integrative Somatic Trauma Therapy, Embodiment teacher training, Non-Linear Movement training, and Body-Mind Centering® Somatic movement education. And currently completing her Somatic Experiencing® Professional Training 3 year training. Fluent in navigating diverse cultures from her upbringing in 15 countries, Laura fosters a deep understanding and connection with individuals from various backgrounds and her South American roots. Living authentically and embracing imperfection and beauty with grace, she extends the privilege of her experience to empower others to reconnect with their innate capacity for alignment and wholeness. Currently based in Melbourne, Australia, Laura is deeply committed to serving others on their healing journeys, specializing in Somatic Experiencing, Hakomi, and Internal Family Systems, offering transformative tools that have shaped her path.

My own lived experience and the impulse to resource my body and nervous system from familiar ways of coping that had led to unhelpful choices. My pursuit of therapy as a client not only helped me but...

My own lived experience and the impulse to resource my body and nervous system from familiar ways of coping that had led to unhelpful choices. My pursuit of therapy as a client not only helped me but enabled me to find the modalities that I practice today that benefitted me beyond talk therapy.

I was that kid at high school that all her friends would go to with their big life issues. I figured out that I was pretty good at helping them, and so I thought I'd do it for a job!

I was that kid at high school that all her friends would go to with their big life issues. I figured out that I was pretty good at helping them, and so I thought I'd do it for a job!

An interest in the resilience of peoples' coping styles and a desire to learn how they have developed over their lifetime.

An interest in the resilience of peoples' coping styles and a desire to learn how they have developed over their lifetime.

I initially trained as an archaeologist but after having young children I discovered counselling and psychotherapy and after having some therapy which changed the direction of my life I went on to...

I initially trained as an archaeologist but after having young children I discovered counselling and psychotherapy and after having some therapy which changed the direction of my life I went on to train as psychotherapist.

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...

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.

From an early age I have been interested in science, the arts, literature, philosophy and the nature of reality. My interest in psychotherapy grew naturally from these earlier preoccupations.

From an early age I have been interested in science, the arts, literature, philosophy and the nature of reality. My interest in psychotherapy grew naturally from these earlier preoccupations.

I have always been passionately curious about people; in my career I wanted to learn what made each of us who we are, and why we do what we do. I also have always been a bit of a counsellor. Even as...

I have always been passionately curious about people; in my career I wanted to learn what made each of us who we are, and why we do what we do. I also have always been a bit of a counsellor. Even as an early teenager I was the one that friends would come to, to chat through how they were feeling or have a good cry to get it out. I guess it grew from there!

The intrinsic quality that each subject has something to say that needs to be witnessed and heard. The idea and feeling that one's voice could be buried under layers of categories, diagnoses and...

The intrinsic quality that each subject has something to say that needs to be witnessed and heard. The idea and feeling that one's voice could be buried under layers of categories, diagnoses and prescriptive 'cures' does not reach at the heart of one's individual pain and circumstances. To actually be heard as yourself is a liberation; also, to come to know that one is responsible for one's own 'health' is also a liberation. The work of listening to the subject--one by one--is very important to me.

I was always interested in communication, and the more experienced I became in my profession, the deeper I wanted to explore the therapy modalities. I worked for some time in an acute psychiatric ward...

I was always interested in communication, and the more experienced I became in my profession, the deeper I wanted to explore the therapy modalities. I worked for some time in an acute psychiatric ward where I learned family therapy (Milan school) and realised that even in psychosis, every act and statement was symbolic and had a meaning for the person, and even if it was difficult to decipher, with persistence one could understand the message the person was trying to communicate. This lead me to the master analyst of symbolic communication, Dr. Carl Jung and his writings. When I was able, I sold my house and trained in Switzerland as a Jungian Analyst.

From a young age I have been very interested in people and fascinated by people's stories. I remember when I was around 10 years old being very moved by the film The Three Faces of Eve, about a woman...

From a young age I have been very interested in people and fascinated by people's stories. I remember when I was around 10 years old being very moved by the film The Three Faces of Eve, about a woman with disocciative identity disorder, and from that time being drawn to this vocation. I deeply believe in the healing capacity of therapeutic work and offering what I can to help catalyse the self-healing process. In addition, I went through a couple of periods of feeling very distressed, stuck, and through working with a therapist found a way out of this.

I was blessed to have an existential crisis at a very early age. It threw me into doubting all that I had been educated to believe was meaningful and true. The outcome of this was that I began a...

I was blessed to have an existential crisis at a very early age. It threw me into doubting all that I had been educated to believe was meaningful and true. The outcome of this was that I began a high-octane search for a truth that was authentic and substantial. Experiential psychotherapy and meditation, together proved to be perfect allies in my search. As they worked for me, so I became motivated to share what I have learned (unlearned?) with others.

My parents were foster parents and i was exposed to social workers and social services at a young age. Through my social work career i got to know colleagues who were counsellors and was drawn to...

My parents were foster parents and i was exposed to social workers and social services at a young age. Through my social work career i got to know colleagues who were counsellors and was drawn to working more intimately one on one with clients.

I have always been interested in human sciences and the connection between thoughts, feelings and emotions. I started out volunteering as a counsellor 15 years ago and found I learnt so much about...

I have always been interested in human sciences and the connection between thoughts, feelings and emotions. I started out volunteering as a counsellor 15 years ago and found I learnt so much about individual stories people bring to the work.

I believe in service and compassion as a way of being which gives back to me as much as I give to others.

I believe in service and compassion as a way of being which gives back to me as much as I give to others.

Personal experiences of suffering and healing inspired me to want to provide psychotherapy to people to help them overcome their suffering.

Personal experiences of suffering and healing inspired me to want to provide psychotherapy to people to help them overcome their suffering.

Counselling addresses fundamental aspects of human well-being, which I find exciting. It empowers individuals to overcome challenges, achieve personal growth, and lead more fulfilling lives. The...

Counselling addresses fundamental aspects of human well-being, which I find exciting. It empowers individuals to overcome challenges, achieve personal growth, and lead more fulfilling lives. The impact of counselling extends beyond the individual client, benefiting families, communities, and society.

I chose the counselling profession because I have a strong desire to help people improve their lives. I have an interest in people transitioning through challenging experiences. Some transitions...

I chose the counselling profession because I have a strong desire to help people improve their lives. I have an interest in people transitioning through challenging experiences. Some transitions include parenthood, mid life crisis, grief and loss, trauma, puberty, menopause, identity crisis, depression, relationship issues and career transitions.

I am drawn to working with individuals who may be dealing with challenges which can negatively affect mental health as I know from experience that whether these create or trigger trauma, and how long...

I am drawn to working with individuals who may be dealing with challenges which can negatively affect mental health as I know from experience that whether these create or trigger trauma, and how long this may continue to be acute or prolonged, can depend on how supported they feel in acknowledging and processing their emotional responses, and gradually beginning to make meaning from these events. I am an excellent listener and have been told that I have a calming voice and presence, and this helps to create a safe space to walk alongside others in their journey so that they do not feel that they have to do it alone, which can make any situation seem even more overwhelming.

In the early 2000s I reached a cross-road and a knowing that something was missing in my personal life and in my career. So I began studying psychotherapy and took classes at the Cairnmillar Insitute...

In the early 2000s I reached a cross-road and a knowing that something was missing in my personal life and in my career. So I began studying psychotherapy and took classes at the Cairnmillar Insitute in Melbourne, Australia. Immersed in the field of psychotherapy, there awakened in me a passion for understanding people's inner emotional and psychological worlds and helping them in their growth and healing. Prior to counselling, I worked for many years in education as an academic, teaching Indonesian language, and in business as business director of a tutoring business and as consultant in human resource managment in the early 2000s. A few years later I moved into the role of Research Fellow in Asian theatre studies. While I have loved assisting people in their learning in specific work related areas, I realised I was more and more drawn to helping people holistically, ie helping the whole person in the context of their life.

I find people infinitely fascinating and find helping people a satisfying endeavor.

I find people infinitely fascinating and find helping people a satisfying endeavor.

Having navigated a number of difficult life situations myself, I have developed strong empathy and passion for supporting others.

Having navigated a number of difficult life situations myself, I have developed strong empathy and passion for supporting others.

I have always had a natural pull towards assisting individuals around me throughout various situations. Now, actually having the skills and tools to be able to assist others, has given me a true...

I have always had a natural pull towards assisting individuals around me throughout various situations. Now, actually having the skills and tools to be able to assist others, has given me a true purpose and yet again confirmed that this is the path I have always been destined for. Practicing as a counsellor has allowed me to assist individuals to find their unique path and achieve their short and long term goals in life. There is no end to education and learning. My primary goal as a therapist, is to assist clients as best I can.

I am passionate about working with the human condition and consider it a great privilege to be able to help individuals, couples and families to create a better life, relationships and future for...

I am passionate about working with the human condition and consider it a great privilege to be able to help individuals, couples and families to create a better life, relationships and future for themselves. It brings me tremendous satisfaction to witness people overcome their difficulties and grow and change for the better.

I wanted to be a psychologist since high-school always having a strong desire to help those under emotional and mental distress. I completed the undergraduate training in psychology however the...

I wanted to be a psychologist since high-school always having a strong desire to help those under emotional and mental distress. I completed the undergraduate training in psychology however the Government at the time removed student loans which meant I could not afford to do post-graduate training at that time. I became a social worker and begun my career as a counselor however I always wanted the further training in treating more significant mental health issues and so returned to post-graduated studies in Clinical Psychology in 2014. With the increase in anxiety and depression I have not regretted this decision. I enjoy the emphasis on evidence based practice which psychology provides. I want to know that the interventions I plan and deliver with my clients have the best chance of creating sustained change. I don't want to waste anyone's time or money!

I chose a counselling as a career due to a desire to help others overcome personal challenges and improve their mental health and well-being. Additionally, I have always had a strong interest in the...

I chose a counselling as a career due to a desire to help others overcome personal challenges and improve their mental health and well-being. Additionally, I have always had a strong interest in the human mind and emotions, and want to use my skills and knowledge to make a positive difference in people's lives. Actually, it was my therapist during a time of transition who suggested I study counselling. I never looked back. I moved from a high pressure advertising career into counselling. Being able to help people, listen and support them adds so much meaning into my life.

I have had a lifetime interest in well-being, personal growth and development. I have had many wonderful work opportunities and these opportunities led me to understand that I wanted work in the...

I have had a lifetime interest in well-being, personal growth and development. I have had many wonderful work opportunities and these opportunities led me to understand that I wanted work in the helping profession. When I began studying counselling & psychotherapy, I knew I was in the right place.

In my 20s I embarked on a journey of trying to find my Self'. Having grown up in a good upper middle class family in Germany, I could not find any life satisfaction from participating in the consumer...

In my 20s I embarked on a journey of trying to find my Self'. Having grown up in a good upper middle class family in Germany, I could not find any life satisfaction from participating in the consumer economic miracle' of post -war Germany. So I left, as many other young people also did at this time, to find enlightenment', by travelling through India, participating in meditation retreats and listening to wise Indian men, who basically told me that I was a Buddha' already, that my “suffering was bogus” and that I was truly “bliss, love and free”. Even though this sounded great, I continued to experience a discrepancy between those enlightened' statements and my experience of myself. So I started to investigate cognitively and emotionally, through therapeutic models, this discrepancy between my original Buddha nature' and my lived life experience. Then, when I turned 30, I participated in a program called the Hoffman Process and it changed my life. For the first time I really experienced myself as innately lovable' and that love was the basis of all human relatedness. I was invited by the founder Bob Hoffman to participate in the first training course conducted here in Australia. Since then, I have continued to participate in various forms of psychotherapeutic trainings to help me develop both personally and professionally.

I always thought I was a good communicator but I wasn't sure what to do with that skill. I stumbled to counselling and realised that it was about so much more than that. It was about listening,...

I always thought I was a good communicator but I wasn't sure what to do with that skill. I stumbled to counselling and realised that it was about so much more than that. It was about listening, understanding and meeting people where they are at; mentally and emotionally. I didn't really know where counselling would take me, thinking back on the last ten years its been an incredible personal and professional journey.

Like many therapists, I've come into my profession through my own healing journey. But I've always been a space holder for people. I'm the one people turn to when they need to discuss something or...

Like many therapists, I've come into my profession through my own healing journey. But I've always been a space holder for people. I'm the one people turn to when they need to discuss something or process emotions. I'm calm, non-judgemental and a good listener. I've also been fascinated by psychology, consciousness and human potential for many years. When I was a shiatsu therapist, my favourite part was post-treatment, when clients were feeling relaxed and expansive and would start talking about what was going on for them emotionally. Over time my shiatsu treatments evolved into informal counselling sessions. At the same time, I was a volunteer for a harm reduction organisation, helping guide people through bad psychedelic experiences at festivals. When I hit a life and career crisis several years later, moving more formally into counselling seemed like a natural progression. I can honestly say that I've never regretted that decision.

For as long as I can remember, I have wondered about the meaning of life. My curiosity about why and how we slip into unstable mental health, and then remain in those unhealthy patterns for indefinite...

For as long as I can remember, I have wondered about the meaning of life. My curiosity about why and how we slip into unstable mental health, and then remain in those unhealthy patterns for indefinite periods, got me interested in the study of the various psychotherapies. I decided to pursue psychotherapy as a profession as it gradually began to point to ways in which I could understand what it meant to be human, and in relationship, and how to better understand myself in these relational dimensions.

I decided on a career as a Psychotherapist & Counsellor as a result of a very successful and fruitful period of personal therapy, following a deep depression.

I decided on a career as a Psychotherapist & Counsellor as a result of a very successful and fruitful period of personal therapy, following a deep depression.

I love people, their stories, struggles, triumphs and individual characters and personalities. I find nothing more rewarding than seeing my clients improve in their wellbeing.

I love people, their stories, struggles, triumphs and individual characters and personalities. I find nothing more rewarding than seeing my clients improve in their wellbeing.

I am a Registered Nurse and Midwife who does counselling and Psychotherapy. I found that as patients talked about their problems and difficulties, the only tools I had available were to reframe their...

I am a Registered Nurse and Midwife who does counselling and Psychotherapy. I found that as patients talked about their problems and difficulties, the only tools I had available were to reframe their circumstances, and offer Cognitive behaviour therapy to cope with their health or relationship problems. Fortunately I was referred by a friend to ISTDP, I then found I had the tools to talk to both an anxious mother, or an ill patient. Since 2010 I have focused on providing ISTDP therapy.

I had considered moving into mental health at different times in my life, but it wasn't until 2012, when I was diagnosed with testicular cancer that I had the real 'aha' moment that made me turn my...

I had considered moving into mental health at different times in my life, but it wasn't until 2012, when I was diagnosed with testicular cancer that I had the real 'aha' moment that made me turn my life around and begin on the road to counselling. I remember that I sat down and wrote a list of every job, position or role I had had during my life - then considering each one, wrote down which parts of each role I found real fulfillment in. In pretty much every role, the thing that I enjoyed the most was working with people - helping them to discover new skills and abilities in themselves, watching as they experienced change and celebrating with them their successes. It brought me to a moment of clarity - where I suddenly realised that counselling was the obvious role for me, and that almost everything I had done up until that point was almost a precursor to my current work.

My belief that we can be healed using the creative process, based on the principles of Carl Jung, A deep curiosity in research in order to consider and practise new ways of assisting others, A...

My belief that we can be healed using the creative process, based on the principles of Carl Jung, A deep curiosity in research in order to consider and practise new ways of assisting others, A lived experience of having a family member with a psychosis.

I have found counselling essential to my wellbeing due to some difficult earlier experiences. I don't see myself as different to anybody else and I think this gives me a real sense of humility and...

I have found counselling essential to my wellbeing due to some difficult earlier experiences. I don't see myself as different to anybody else and I think this gives me a real sense of humility and compassion for people who are struggling. I am so grateful to have had some fantastic counsellors and teachers and I see myself in service to others. It is a profound privilege for me to sit with people as they navigate significant challenges.

Many things probably led me to be a therapist, but my most motivating force was wanting to find a job that fitted within my humanistic values.

Many things probably led me to be a therapist, but my most motivating force was wanting to find a job that fitted within my humanistic values.

Psychotherapy and counselling was a natural progression for me after leaving my nursing career. I volunteered as a lifeline crisis counsellor for 5 years and discovered my passion and love of enabling...

Psychotherapy and counselling was a natural progression for me after leaving my nursing career. I volunteered as a lifeline crisis counsellor for 5 years and discovered my passion and love of enabling people to change through listening and being curious moved me forward to further studies in a Diploma/Bachelor of Counselling and recently diploma in Holistic Counselling and Psychotherapy that has given me skills to experience counselling at a deeper level. Counselling has given me the opportunity to connect with people and enable them to gain insight into their life situation and find effective long lasting solutions.

A lifelong quest to understand the ways people develop meaning and purpose in their lives for enrichment and as a consequence discover unique ways to live beyond the material and superficial...

A lifelong quest to understand the ways people develop meaning and purpose in their lives for enrichment and as a consequence discover unique ways to live beyond the material and superficial attributes that society's systems can unwittingly enforce upon us. I am particularly passionate about infusing the physiological with our emotional wellbeing.

It chose me. No, just kidding. But for the books, I was at a crossroad in my life and needed, yes needed to find a vocation that was meaningful and one that is also sense making. 10 years down the...

It chose me. No, just kidding. But for the books, I was at a crossroad in my life and needed, yes needed to find a vocation that was meaningful and one that is also sense making. 10 years down the track, I am glad. It is both meaningful and sense making.

I have always been interested in helping people live the lives they want to live. I don't think life needs to be lived a particular way, but I do know we're happiest when we're living it our way. My...

I have always been interested in helping people live the lives they want to live. I don't think life needs to be lived a particular way, but I do know we're happiest when we're living it our way. My ultimate joy is helping people define what is important to them, and finding ways to get to this.

In my work as a teacher, I was finding more and more that people (students and colleagues alike) would come to me seeking guidance on things other than curriculum. I found I really enjoyed helping...

In my work as a teacher, I was finding more and more that people (students and colleagues alike) would come to me seeking guidance on things other than curriculum. I found I really enjoyed helping people talk through their problems and they seemed to walk away feeling better. It just seemed a natural progression to do it full-time.