Psychotherapists and Counsellors Answer your Questions

Oh Gosh there are so many, but I think for me the most significant problem in the world today is poverty. Global poverty represents one of the most serious problems in our modern society. The...

Oh Gosh there are so many, but I think for me the most significant problem in the world today is poverty. Global poverty represents one of the most serious problems in our modern society. The world's poorest people frequently experience hunger, have limited access to proper education, often go without light at night, and face some of the most serious health problems in the world. Change needs to happen.

Not having enough importance and respect placed on the natural world, the environment and animals.

Not having enough importance and respect placed on the natural world, the environment and animals.

Lack of understanding

Lack of understanding

Violence towards one another and the environment

Violence towards one another and the environment

From a counsellor's perspective, one of the most significant problems we face today is the growing prevalence of disconnection—from ourselves, others, and the world around us. This disconnection...

From a counsellor's perspective, one of the most significant problems we face today is the growing prevalence of disconnection—from ourselves, others, and the world around us. This disconnection often leads to loneliness, anxiety, depression, and a lack of meaning or purpose in life. Contributing factors include the fast pace of modern life, the overuse of technology, social media pressures, stigma around mental health, and a lack of access to affordable mental health care. These challenges can prevent people from seeking help or fostering meaningful relationships, which are crucial for emotional well-being. Counselling can play a pivotal role in addressing this issue by offering a safe, compassionate space for individuals to reconnect with themselves, build resilience, and develop healthy, authentic relationships with others.

Honestly, I think it's our inability to sit with discomfort. Being unsafe and being uncomfortable are two different things. I think we've grown too accustomed to the 'easy' life, finding things to...

Honestly, I think it's our inability to sit with discomfort. Being unsafe and being uncomfortable are two different things. I think we've grown too accustomed to the 'easy' life, finding things to distract us from our deeper, internal happenings that may make us feel uncomfortable with the truths they want us to acknowledge. I think we need to build up our tolerance for sitting with discomfort and expanding that to learn from our discomfort. Why does this make me feel uncomfortable? What's hard about it to hear/to see? What image of myself do I want to portray that I am avoiding acknowledging this discomfort? There's so much knowledge, understanding, and growth to be had by sitting with and exploring our discomfort.

Indifference.

Indifference.

Climate change, wealth disparity and the tendency toward moral condemnation/blame vs. meaning making come immediately to mind.

Climate change, wealth disparity and the tendency toward moral condemnation/blame vs. meaning making come immediately to mind.

Undeniably climate change. To think that our way of living and that of all living things is increasingly being impacted and may cease to exist, is both distressing and alarming.

Undeniably climate change. To think that our way of living and that of all living things is increasingly being impacted and may cease to exist, is both distressing and alarming.

Climate change, unfortunately. I also believe the after effects of Covid are going to continue for many years. Many of my clients have suffered from the isolation, from losing loved ones and not...

Climate change, unfortunately. I also believe the after effects of Covid are going to continue for many years. Many of my clients have suffered from the isolation, from losing loved ones and not being able to see them in hospital, or attend a funeral. One client had to fight to get overseas to see her unexpectedly dying father. She just made it, attended the funeral and flew straight home to be isolated in hotel quarantine for 2 weeks, in another state. She isn't the only one and many people have their own story of losing loved ones, or being psychologically impacted by the extensive lockdown period in Melbourne. These difficult times are coming out now, and I expect will continue to surface in unassuming ways. We need to be mindful of this in these coming years. There is significant disenfranchised grief, 'a loss that's not openly acknowledged, socially mourned, or publicly supported'. And it's my job to work with people to acknowledge and tend to these losses they haven't felt able to.

Identifying and understanding our own aggression.

Identifying and understanding our own aggression.

A lack of genuinely deep thinking, feeling, and sensing. Immaturity in other words.

A lack of genuinely deep thinking, feeling, and sensing. Immaturity in other words.

Disconnection from ourselves, from spirit and to the boundlessness of existence.

Disconnection from ourselves, from spirit and to the boundlessness of existence.

I believe one of the most significant problems we face today is disconnection—whether it’s from ourselves, others, or our communities. With the pace of modern life, it’s easy to feel isolated,...

I believe one of the most significant problems we face today is disconnection—whether it’s from ourselves, others, or our communities. With the pace of modern life, it’s easy to feel isolated, overwhelmed, or misunderstood. This disconnection can impact our mental health, relationships, and overall well-being. My work as a social worker is all about rebuilding those connections—helping people find their voice, build meaningful relationships, and reconnect with their sense of purpose. By fostering understanding, compassion, and a sense of belonging, we can tackle this challenge together.

I believe one of the significant problems we face in the world today is inequities and poor access to health care.

I believe one of the significant problems we face in the world today is inequities and poor access to health care.

I think it's tempting to become fixated on the problems of our world today, but I believe the most significant problem is how often we forget to acknowledge how far humanity has come. We are, in...

I think it's tempting to become fixated on the problems of our world today, but I believe the most significant problem is how often we forget to acknowledge how far humanity has come. We are, in Australia, incredibly blessed to live in a free society where we are able to pursue our goals and engage in civil conversations with each other, without the risk of imprisonment, or worse. A brief glance at history will reveal unspeakable suffering at nearly every step along the way, and the fact that we're somehow able to get along and not revert to barbarism is a sheer miracle. Even the wealthiest of Kings and Emperors 300 years ago would eagerly trade places with the average person today, if only to be able to enjoy the conveniences of modern plumbing!

One of the most significant problems we face in the world today is the pervasive sense of disconnection—disconnection from ourselves, from others, and from the natural world. This disconnection...

One of the most significant problems we face in the world today is the pervasive sense of disconnection—disconnection from ourselves, from others, and from the natural world. This disconnection manifests in many ways, including the rising rates of mental health issues, the fragmentation of communities, and the environmental crises we are witnessing. On a personal level, many people struggle with a disconnection from their own emotions, values, and sense of purpose. This can lead to feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and a lack of fulfilment as people find it increasingly difficult to navigate the complexities of modern life. The pressure to constantly achieve, coupled with the overwhelming presence of technology, can further distance individuals from their true selves and from meaningful, face-to-face connections with others. Socially, this disconnection is reflected in the polarization and division we see in many societies. The lack of empathy, understanding, and open dialogue between different groups often exacerbates conflicts and prevents us from finding common ground. This division is fueled by various factors, including economic inequality, cultural differences, and the echo chambers created by social media, which can reinforce biases and deepen divides. Our disconnection from the natural world has also led to environmental degradation and a lack of sustainable practices. The consequences of this are dire, as we see the impact of climate change, loss of biodiversity, and the depletion of natural resources. This disconnection from nature not only threatens the health of our planet but also affects our own well-being, as we lose touch with the sense of peace and balance that comes from being in harmony with the environment. Addressing this widespread disconnection requires a concerted effort to foster greater self-awareness, empathy, and a deeper understanding of our interconnectedness with each other and the world around us. It calls for a shift in our values, where we prioritize relationships, community, and environmental stewardship over material success and individualism. By reconnecting with ourselves, others, and the natural world, we can address many underlying issues that contribute to the challenges we face today.

Ignorance. Sometimes wilful, often not. Political, social, cultural interpersonal, and intrapersonal. I think that as a species we still don't understand ourselves and our place in the scheme of...

Ignorance. Sometimes wilful, often not. Political, social, cultural interpersonal, and intrapersonal. I think that as a species we still don't understand ourselves and our place in the scheme of things well enough. This comes from a lack of education, a lack of exposure to potential solutions, and a lack of reflectivity.

I think a lack of compassion for ourselves and others and difficulty in having healthy boundaries drives many of the problems in the world today. Materialism, competitiveness and lack of community...

I think a lack of compassion for ourselves and others and difficulty in having healthy boundaries drives many of the problems in the world today. Materialism, competitiveness and lack of community have driven us from empathy, respect, love and other important human values.

Wow this is a huge question. The climate crisis, colonialism and imperialism, the cisheteropatriarchy. People choosing greed, power and violence over collective liberation

Wow this is a huge question. The climate crisis, colonialism and imperialism, the cisheteropatriarchy. People choosing greed, power and violence over collective liberation

There are lots of problems, but the lack of support and safety for the people who want to fight those problems, but are locked into a cycle of survival mode and self-hatred for not making the changes...

There are lots of problems, but the lack of support and safety for the people who want to fight those problems, but are locked into a cycle of survival mode and self-hatred for not making the changes they want to, is the one I try to have an impact on.

Disconnection. Polarisation.

Disconnection. Polarisation.

This is an interesting question but - with apologies - I would prefer not to answer here. I think talking about this with other people rather than answering in writing is important as setting down...

This is an interesting question but - with apologies - I would prefer not to answer here. I think talking about this with other people rather than answering in writing is important as setting down just one 'biggest issue' can be so divisive. There are a lot of really important urgent matters in the world. I will say I am a 'leftie' and I'm interested in people (hence my job). I hope that gives a sense of who I am :)

In my view, one of the most significant problems we face in the world today is the pervasive disconnection and lack of empathy among individuals and communities. In an increasingly interconnected...

In my view, one of the most significant problems we face in the world today is the pervasive disconnection and lack of empathy among individuals and communities. In an increasingly interconnected world, it is essential that we foster a sense of understanding, compassion, and unity. The divisions based on race, religion, nationality, and other differences hinder our ability to address pressing global challenges effectively. It is crucial to cultivate empathy, promote inclusivity, and bridge the gaps that divide us. By embracing our shared humanity and recognizing the interconnectedness of all beings, we can work towards creating a more compassionate, equitable, and sustainable world for present and future generation

Cultures of dominance embedded in all levels of society, largely not seen or spoken about by most of us.

Cultures of dominance embedded in all levels of society, largely not seen or spoken about by most of us.

We want a quick fix to all our problems and just like small wounds that take their time to heal, life has its own timeline

We want a quick fix to all our problems and just like small wounds that take their time to heal, life has its own timeline

Wow, they ask the light questions, huh?! It's hard to whittle it down to one. I'd say how polarised, and divisive politics and public debate has become. I see that it has been at least partly...

Wow, they ask the light questions, huh?! It's hard to whittle it down to one. I'd say how polarised, and divisive politics and public debate has become. I see that it has been at least partly responsible for things like inaction on climate change, and the increasing transphobia in the English speaking world at the moment.

Despair and anxiety that the world is changing and how little control as individuals, we have.

Despair and anxiety that the world is changing and how little control as individuals, we have.

Climate Change and degradation of the planet.

Climate Change and degradation of the planet.

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,...

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.

Social isolation and the loss of community

Social isolation and the loss of community

I think climate change is the most significant problem we face today.

I think climate change is the most significant problem we face today.

Reduction and eradication of our basic subjectivity; that each one of us is unique. This generalization of people leads to some of the ideologies of hate that is so problematic. As though basic...

Reduction and eradication of our basic subjectivity; that each one of us is unique. This generalization of people leads to some of the ideologies of hate that is so problematic. As though basic humanism is being forgotten or destroyed.

Having a future in a healthy world. Understanding that living by materialism alone will not satisfy the human soul.

Having a future in a healthy world. Understanding that living by materialism alone will not satisfy the human soul.

Environmental problems, the pollution of the earth, our home, loss of species and humans disconnection from nature.

Environmental problems, the pollution of the earth, our home, loss of species and humans disconnection from nature.

To live in a world that is off kilter in a way that is sane, is no mean feat. We live in a world that is full of stressors. Psychotherapy offers the opportunity to heal our wounds and find approaches...

To live in a world that is off kilter in a way that is sane, is no mean feat. We live in a world that is full of stressors. Psychotherapy offers the opportunity to heal our wounds and find approaches to living that enable us to be aware, intelligent and self-respectful, even when the environment around us is testing.

Climate change.

Climate change.

Stigma and discrimination for minoritised communities, be it mental health, identity, race or culture. Cost and access to mental health supports.

Stigma and discrimination for minoritised communities, be it mental health, identity, race or culture. Cost and access to mental health supports.

We see the cost of things and not their value.

We see the cost of things and not their value.

When group think interferes with individual and social cohesion.

When group think interferes with individual and social cohesion.

Rejection and fear We grapple with two issues daily and use different means and ways to fight against them. Some cope with it better, others require insight, and they manage. Still, others are...

Rejection and fear We grapple with two issues daily and use different means and ways to fight against them. Some cope with it better, others require insight, and they manage. Still, others are overwhelmed and fail to overcome and seek help.

Our difficulty to connect as humans to ourselves and others with compassion.

Our difficulty to connect as humans to ourselves and others with compassion.

When we lose our sense of connection with others, our community or environment, we are not as strong or empowered as when we embrace diversity with empathy, compassion and non-judgement. In our...

When we lose our sense of connection with others, our community or environment, we are not as strong or empowered as when we embrace diversity with empathy, compassion and non-judgement. In our relationships with each other and the earth, we need to be mindful of giving and receiving in balance to encourage and maintain equilibrium and harmony, which can start with the cultivation of mutual gratitude and kindness.

Listening to each other in our individual relationships personally, in famlies, at work, at school, in organisations, government, within cultural groups, religion, sports, domestic politics, world...

Listening to each other in our individual relationships personally, in famlies, at work, at school, in organisations, government, within cultural groups, religion, sports, domestic politics, world politics.

Fear.

Fear.

I believe the biggest issue at the moment is the toxic elements of our culture, too much screen time and lack of real connection and healthy communities.

I believe the biggest issue at the moment is the toxic elements of our culture, too much screen time and lack of real connection and healthy communities.

One of the most significant problems that we face today, is forgetting the free art of 'compassion' and 'understanding'. Although most of us still adopt compassion for one another, unfortunately, some...

One of the most significant problems that we face today, is forgetting the free art of 'compassion' and 'understanding'. Although most of us still adopt compassion for one another, unfortunately, some simply do not. This reality saddens me and I try to remind both myself and my clients, that giving is but a 'need' within each one of us. Giving allows us to feel 'good'. This is natures way to tell us to keep doing it as much as we can for one another. Giving can mean but is not limited to; time, effort and currency. Sometimes, being a voice to assist those who truly need it, allows room for something magical to occur within and we instantly are gifted with gratitude and appreciation for both ourselves and others.

Not accepting diversity.

Not accepting diversity.

Accepting difference.

Accepting difference.

The Beatles named it in the 1960's - All you need is Love'. Thousands of years of War, Pestilence, Plague and Catastrophe and the resulting trauma reaction, has left many people bereft and...

The Beatles named it in the 1960's - All you need is Love'. Thousands of years of War, Pestilence, Plague and Catastrophe and the resulting trauma reaction, has left many people bereft and disconnected from their essential self and the ability to recognize the innate connectedness of existence and our inherent loveability. In the 1st World, we live very time poor lives. In the pursuit of manufactured needs, there is not much time left for relationships - especially with our children and significant Other. Today, people's need for belonging is conducted over social media, where a public face' is created and displayed for general consumption. This can engender an anxiety about being judged by their community for falling short of perceived social expectations and further separate people from themselves and each other.

Disconnection from our true selves.

Disconnection from our true selves.

Disconnection. Disconnection from each other as we descend into tribalism and live more of our lives online; disconnection from ourselves; disconnection from our bodies, as we live more and more...

Disconnection. Disconnection from each other as we descend into tribalism and live more of our lives online; disconnection from ourselves; disconnection from our bodies, as we live more and more of our lives in our heads; disconnection from the world around we live in as we are urbanised and removed from nature; disconnection from lives of deep meaning and purpose; and disconnection from traditions and spirituality.

Despite the many advances that we see around us that provide for a life of ease, life still remains problematic and our personal issues remain elusive! Among the many problems that come to mind, what...

Despite the many advances that we see around us that provide for a life of ease, life still remains problematic and our personal issues remain elusive! Among the many problems that come to mind, what really strikes me as being problematic is our general inability to reflect on things that matter. Instead, we keep busy in order to feel that we are achieving something of importance. I say this in the context of avoiding the challenges of getting to attend to our deepest questions and concerns of our living. Instead, we pretend that a solution is just around the corner, looking for instant relief, not waiting to discover what we as individuals have done and continue to do to perpetuate this distress.

Apart from global warming and environmental degradation the two things that worry me are 1. the increasing systematic placement of very young children into child care and 2. The financialisation of...

Apart from global warming and environmental degradation the two things that worry me are 1. the increasing systematic placement of very young children into child care and 2. The financialisation of our world where the bottom line (and bean counters) rule. Managerialism seems to be an expression of this dehumanising trend.

I believe climate change is the most significant problem we face in the world today.

I believe climate change is the most significant problem we face in the world today.

I would like to see more compassion and love freely available to and in all sentient beings. Love one another.

I would like to see more compassion and love freely available to and in all sentient beings. Love one another.

People who hold on to their viewpoints too firmly. By all means, have opinions, draw conclusions and say what you think, but hold onto these things lightly and be open to having your mind changed...

People who hold on to their viewpoints too firmly. By all means, have opinions, draw conclusions and say what you think, but hold onto these things lightly and be open to having your mind changed or your perspective broadened. In politics, holding viewpoints too firmly leads to the subjugation of minorities and subcultures, restrictive government, terrorism and war. In people, it leads to distrust, judgement and hatred of others. In yourself, it can stop you from understanding your own strengths and inhibit you from learning more about yourself and your capabilities.

Inequalities between peoples of all cultures in finances, housing and health. Others' lack of understanding how to live a good and rewarding life in the simplest way possible.

Inequalities between peoples of all cultures in finances, housing and health. Others' lack of understanding how to live a good and rewarding life in the simplest way possible.

Lack of support in an increasingly complex and stressful world. I don't believe as humans we were designed for how our lives have evolved and our nervous systems are struggling. Our lives have been...

Lack of support in an increasingly complex and stressful world. I don't believe as humans we were designed for how our lives have evolved and our nervous systems are struggling. Our lives have been and are being turned upside by life events and it is hard to maintain balance and equilibrium.

Who knows what I would have said a two weeks ago, but now it's definitely coronavirus.

Who knows what I would have said a two weeks ago, but now it's definitely coronavirus.

Loneliness. I think the way our society have become so focused on independence, using IT devices to find everything from love to food while sitting on the lounge with such an array of choice it...

Loneliness. I think the way our society have become so focused on independence, using IT devices to find everything from love to food while sitting on the lounge with such an array of choice it actually creates anxiety because we want only the best. The way our work life is structured, such as work from home or big organisations dictating work structure to capitalise on profit can be isolating. People become isolated in many ways leading to poor emotional and mental health and this can lead them to experience emptiness, isolation and low self esteem making it difficult for them to connect or reconnect with society.

We all face different problems but generally I think not living an authentic integrated way creates a lot of suffering. I would like to see a fuller sense of community outside our workplaces and...

We all face different problems but generally I think not living an authentic integrated way creates a lot of suffering. I would like to see a fuller sense of community outside our workplaces and techno devices. We need to interact with a diverse range of people or we can become polarised by default.

Loneliness, isolation and that many think that's just life in modern day

Loneliness, isolation and that many think that's just life in modern day

As a global community, climate crisis is the most significant problem we face in the world today. It represents a real threat to our children's wellbeing and the comfort of our species. I also see the...

As a global community, climate crisis is the most significant problem we face in the world today. It represents a real threat to our children's wellbeing and the comfort of our species. I also see the disconnection we have cultivated, the individualistic worlds we live in, as a significant problem for our mental health and wellbeing.

Disconnection. It can be so hard to remember and honour our essential interconnectedness with each other, with the planet, with the past, with the present and with the future. E.M. Forster's dictum,...

Disconnection. It can be so hard to remember and honour our essential interconnectedness with each other, with the planet, with the past, with the present and with the future. E.M. Forster's dictum, 'Only connect,' is one I come back to all the time.