Psychotherapists and Counsellors Answer your Questions

Initially, I was simply trying to make sense of people and myself. As I faced my own struggles, I discovered that body-oriented approaches and somatic psychotherapy were what truly helped me to heal...

Initially, I was simply trying to make sense of people and myself. As I faced my own struggles, I discovered that body-oriented approaches and somatic psychotherapy were what truly helped me to heal and grow. That experience ignited my passion and led me to years of study in psychology, counselling, and somatic therapies, so I could offer the same kind of support to others.

I think the biggest factor that has always drawn me back to counselling, regardless of what other paths I have taken along the way, is my never-ending sense of wonder about human beings - what drives...

I think the biggest factor that has always drawn me back to counselling, regardless of what other paths I have taken along the way, is my never-ending sense of wonder about human beings - what drives us, what connects us, what challenges us, what makes us who we are as well as the value I place on exploring how we can be the best version of ourselves. I cannot think of anything I would rather do than to walk with people in their journey of discovering how they can connect with themselves and others in order to feel most alive. This has become more important to me over time as I have valued my own journey and exploration and those who have supported me.

I've always been interested in listening to different people's life stories: how they've endured and overcome challenging times, what drives them, what their passion is and what it is that they love...

I've always been interested in listening to different people's life stories: how they've endured and overcome challenging times, what drives them, what their passion is and what it is that they love about their life. I find it very fulfilling when clients have a greater understanding about themselves and create lasting change through their openness and hard work in therapy.

As part of my own life journey I was significantly injured whilst working as a nurse in a secure mental health hospital ward & I was faced with not being able to continue the work I felt passionate...

As part of my own life journey I was significantly injured whilst working as a nurse in a secure mental health hospital ward & I was faced with not being able to continue the work I felt passionate about due to dealing with significant chronic pain. This forced life change caused great inner anger & despair for me at the time & after the much needed emotional support of a therapist including career guidance for the first time, I embarked on a new path with a similar focus of supporting client mental health - commencing retraining as a Counsellor. I now look back & feel grateful for the new life path I continue on, as it has brought me many personal successes & inner growth I don't believe I would have achieved without the circumstances I faced at that time. Through learning therapy techniques that I could more adeptly support my clients with, I was also able to experience the power of healing my own personal trauma past triggers, as well as no longer have chronic pain! Through my counselling career I have been privileged to support so many people who have inspired me to continue this path. Thus, I continue to have passion for supporting clients healing, growth & happiness in whatever way is important for them.

I originally dreamt of being a journalist but ended up in education. Education was a great forum for understanding child development and family systems. I have increasingly been interested in...

I originally dreamt of being a journalist but ended up in education. Education was a great forum for understanding child development and family systems. I have increasingly been interested in understanding dysfunctional families and how the power structures work. Internal Family Systems (IFS) offers appealing categories to help people understand the family as an ecosystem with a core self at the centre and a multitude of parts which interact in the ecosystem. It's hard to get your head around at first but after a while it really starts to make sense. IFS also takes the shame away from you behaving in certain unhelpful ways. I love my work because I find it meaningful and rewarding. I also like a challenge!

My passion for working within the mental health and addiction field has been ignited by my journey of self-development and inspired by the recovery journeys of other people. This passion and...

My passion for working within the mental health and addiction field has been ignited by my journey of self-development and inspired by the recovery journeys of other people. This passion and inspiration have fuelled my professional and personal values, such as my commitment to work from a harm reduction, trauma-informed and recovery model lens, striving to reduce stigma and support recovery from mental health and addiction problems. These values are grounded in the recognition of the following essential contributing factors for solid recovery journeys: Hope . Positive Sense of Self . Dignity . Empowerment . Self-determination . Self-Efficacy . Collaboration . Safety . Meaningful Life (Sense of Purpose) . Respect

A complicated family of origin and experiences of my own child-raising years led me to see the value of someone external to talk to. I benefitted enormously from the kindness and empathy of a...

A complicated family of origin and experiences of my own child-raising years led me to see the value of someone external to talk to. I benefitted enormously from the kindness and empathy of a professional counsellor. I had always been interested in why people do what they do, why they think and feel as they do. It made sense to study this topic, and it evolved into a counselling masters where I made sense of more of my own experiences, and learnt that the value I had seen in previous experiences was actually evidence and science based. Its a wonderful career.

Iâ??ve always been drawn to understanding people and what helps us through lifeâ??s ups and downs. After more than 15 years working as a manager, I decided to re-train as a counsellor. As a mature...

Iâ??ve always been drawn to understanding people and what helps us through lifeâ??s ups and downs. After more than 15 years working as a manager, I decided to re-train as a counsellor. As a mature practitioner with lived experience, I understand how life can throw unexpected curveballs, and Iâ??m passionate about supporting others through their own challenges.

I was drawn to psychotherapy as I have an interest and care for people's inner worlds. I have benefited from others having held my experience of being an individual person with support and...

I was drawn to psychotherapy as I have an interest and care for people's inner worlds. I have benefited from others having held my experience of being an individual person with support and understanding. This enabled me to come into better understanding of myself and be able to accept more of myself. Few people have been properly listened to, or engaged with someone who tries to understand them without judging them. This is really something transformative and enables deep genuine growth. I am drawn to the profession so that I may offer this to people.

This career gives me the opportunity to continually learn from everyone I meet, and most importantly, to apply the skills from my professional training to help people improve their quality of life. I...

This career gives me the opportunity to continually learn from everyone I meet, and most importantly, to apply the skills from my professional training to help people improve their quality of life. I find my career very rewarding.

Social justice has always been very important to me and social work was a way of enacting these values.

Social justice has always been very important to me and social work was a way of enacting these values.

From a young age, I found myself drawn to peopleâ??s stories their struggles, their resilience, and their desire to be heard and understood. I have always been deeply empathetic and sensitive to the...

From a young age, I found myself drawn to peopleâ??s stories their struggles, their resilience, and their desire to be heard and understood. I have always been deeply empathetic and sensitive to the emotions of others, and I often found myself offering support, even before I had the language or tools to do so formally. My journey into counselling was shaped by both personal and professional experiences. Working in the health and aged care sector, I witnessed the profound impact that compassionate, person-centred support can have on someoneâ??s life especially those experiencing mental health challenges, disability, trauma, or emotional distress. I saw the gaps in the system and felt a strong calling to do more not just to manage cases, but to sit with people in their pain and help them make sense of it. I was especially moved by the experiences of children and families navigating complex emotional and behavioural challenges. Their voices are often overlooked, yet they carry deep wisdom and strength. I wanted to be someone they could trust someone who would listen without judgment, and empower them to find their voice. Counselling allows me to bring together my natural compassion, my belief in peopleâ??s ability to grow and heal, and my commitment to social justice. Itâ??s more than a career itâ??s a calling. Itâ??s a privilege to walk alongside individuals as they make sense of their experiences, rediscover their strengths, and begin to heal.

I came to psychotherapy after many years working in business and consulting, where I saw firsthand how much peopleâ??s wellbeing and relationships shape their lives and work. Over time I realised I...

I came to psychotherapy after many years working in business and consulting, where I saw firsthand how much peopleâ??s wellbeing and relationships shape their lives and work. Over time I realised I wanted to be in a role that focused more directly on peopleâ??s inner worlds rather than organisations. My own experience of therapy also showed me how valuable it can be to have a space for reflection, healing, and growth. That combination of personal conviction and professional curiosity led me to train formally in counselling and psychotherapy.

In the 1990s, I began exploring healing work, and later, life led me into founding an IT business. Though I found success there, something essential was missing. A quieter, deeper calling drew me...

In the 1990s, I began exploring healing work, and later, life led me into founding an IT business. Though I found success there, something essential was missing. A quieter, deeper calling drew me backâ??toward extensive training in trauma-informed and experiential therapies, including Process-Oriented Psychology, inner-child healing, Nonviolent Communication, and shadow work. Since then, Iâ??ve dedicated my life to guiding othersâ??supporting clients in their healing, training fellow therapists, and facilitating menâ??s work weekends. I believe in transformation that ripples through individuals, their relationships, and the wider community.

It felt right, and I love the realness of conversations when people are experiencing challenges in their life, and then having the opportunity to see them move through those changes, doing things they...

It felt right, and I love the realness of conversations when people are experiencing challenges in their life, and then having the opportunity to see them move through those changes, doing things they never would have thought possible prior.

During my early twenties, I had my first encounter with psychotherapy. Working with a wonderful practitioner for several years profoundly imprinted on me. For the first time, I truly understood what...

During my early twenties, I had my first encounter with psychotherapy. Working with a wonderful practitioner for several years profoundly imprinted on me. For the first time, I truly understood what it felt like to repair, grow, and change. Thirty-plus years later, this experience set me on a path of personal development to better understand myself and others. As a result, I pursued studies in relational and person-centred therapies and obtained postgraduate qualifications in Counselling and Psychotherapy.

Iâ??ve always been drawn to peopleâ??s stories, to what shapes us, challenges us, and calls us back to who we are. Over the years, I found myself mentoring others, leading teams, and holding space...

Iâ??ve always been drawn to peopleâ??s stories, to what shapes us, challenges us, and calls us back to who we are. Over the years, I found myself mentoring others, leading teams, and holding space in ways that felt deeply meaningful. Through my own personal therapy and inner work, I realised just how transformative that kind of space can be. I didnâ??t step into this profession overnight; it unfolded gradually, alongside two decades of leadership and mentoring, and a strong desire to work in a way that felt more aligned and purposeful. Becoming a therapist felt less like a career switch and more like a return to something that had been waiting in me for a long time.

My passion for counselling began when, as a student nurse in the â??80s, I realised how little time was given attending to the emotional needs of long-term or terminally ill patients in a busy public...

My passion for counselling began when, as a student nurse in the â??80s, I realised how little time was given attending to the emotional needs of long-term or terminally ill patients in a busy public hospital in South Africa. Over the years I developed my counselling skills as complementary to my nursing, completing a Certificate in Basic Counselling and studies in Logotherapy (meaning-centred counselling) through the University of South Africa, while maintaining an Affiliate membership of the Psychological Society of South Africa. Moving to Australia meant putting aside further studies for a number of years. However, I found the passion for counselling remained, leading to the completion of my Master's and gaining registration.

A combination of things have led me here: my deep interest in engaging with and getting to know others, my increasing understanding of how the world and society impacts positively and adversely on...

A combination of things have led me here: my deep interest in engaging with and getting to know others, my increasing understanding of how the world and society impacts positively and adversely on people, my fascination with the words and work of those who have understood that truly helping people doesn't mean telling them what to do or even gently nudging them in certain directions, but in giving them the conditions that will help them to chart their own course.

I have always been interested in understanding the human condition. All my endeavors, all my studies, and everything I've done is related to that. On reflection, it seems that our professions choose...

I have always been interested in understanding the human condition. All my endeavors, all my studies, and everything I've done is related to that. On reflection, it seems that our professions choose us.

I think that helping others is a great motivator for an occupation. Although I only help in a very small way, there is never a day when I think my day has been a waste. (I previously worked in a...

I think that helping others is a great motivator for an occupation. Although I only help in a very small way, there is never a day when I think my day has been a waste. (I previously worked in a bank and I thought/felt this way often). There are many ways to help obviously, but this one works for me.

I fell down my own â??holeâ?? at one point in my life, when facing the loss of a child to illness, the loss of my business and my home, all at once. It got so dark for me that it suddenly made sense...

I fell down my own â??holeâ?? at one point in my life, when facing the loss of a child to illness, the loss of my business and my home, all at once. It got so dark for me that it suddenly made sense that everyone would be better off without me. Luckily I realised I wasnâ??t thinking right, and got help - but it taught me that suicide can seem like the best way out for anyone, and it also taught me that there is nothing worse than being that low and being alone. That changed my life and made me retrain as a counsellor; helping others avoid or escape their own dark place has become the reason I do this.

I want to be of service and know that counselling and psychotherapy can support profound growth and healing that has a 'ripple effect' in the world. I believe this work is a 'calling' more than a job...

I want to be of service and know that counselling and psychotherapy can support profound growth and healing that has a 'ripple effect' in the world. I believe this work is a 'calling' more than a job and I feel grateful to be able to be of service in this way.

I am drawn to work that is meaningful, impactful and deep. The field of psychotherapy and counselling drew me in because of the rich and dynamic landscape for relational learning, growth and...

I am drawn to work that is meaningful, impactful and deep. The field of psychotherapy and counselling drew me in because of the rich and dynamic landscape for relational learning, growth and development that is ongoing and forever novel.

A lifelong interest in people and what makes us humans tick is what first drew me to study psychology as a Bachelor's Degree in the U.S. I've always been keen to understand why people act the way they...

A lifelong interest in people and what makes us humans tick is what first drew me to study psychology as a Bachelor's Degree in the U.S. I've always been keen to understand why people act the way they do and think the things they do. What motivates people. Over 11 years ago, I trained as a yoga teacher and a few years later, as a yoga therapist. While teaching, I found people were naturally confiding in me about their struggles and issues in life. As such, I felt further training and professional practice in the field of psychotherapy would be of tremendous benefit to myself and my clients.

My personal experience of being supported by a counselling professional. Experiencing anxiety and depression as a young person led me to access a counsellor. It was my first experience with an adult...

My personal experience of being supported by a counselling professional. Experiencing anxiety and depression as a young person led me to access a counsellor. It was my first experience with an adult who listened to me without judgment. In later years the declining health of my mother to breast cancer led me back into therapy to understand my grief and loss. Both these experiences were supportive and transformational.

I've always been drawn to peopleâ??s storiesâ??what shapes them, what helps them heal, and how they move through challenge. After years in health and wellness coaching, I wanted to go deeper....

I've always been drawn to peopleâ??s storiesâ??what shapes them, what helps them heal, and how they move through challenge. After years in health and wellness coaching, I wanted to go deeper. Counselling felt like the natural next step to support others in a more meaningful, grounded way.

I have always been a seeker, in search of knowledge about spirituality and the journey of self. I have worn many hats and have experienced a lot of life's slings and arrows, but have also been very...

I have always been a seeker, in search of knowledge about spirituality and the journey of self. I have worn many hats and have experienced a lot of life's slings and arrows, but have also been very fortunate on my path to have loved and been loved. I got into transpersonal counselling and transpersonal art therapy as personal development as they were very experiential diplomas. After doing 100s of hours of training and personal development, it was time to begin private practice. I am also an exhibiting artist, and the two go hand in hand.

An early interest in psychology during my first degree.

An early interest in psychology during my first degree.

I have always been a deep thinker and observer of life around me. In my 20's, I had my own internal struggles and found myself reading self help and personal growth books which were validating,...

I have always been a deep thinker and observer of life around me. In my 20's, I had my own internal struggles and found myself reading self help and personal growth books which were validating, helpful and inspiring. I had the opportunity to undertake an introductory person centred counselling course in London which I loved. It led me to be hooked into the counselling and psychology field. Twenty two years later I am still hooked and continue to be fascinated, enlightened and inspired by the field.

I transitioned to psychotherapy from a background in cognitive psychology, anthropology, and applied neuroscience due to my profound passion for helping individuals overcome psychological suffering....

I transitioned to psychotherapy from a background in cognitive psychology, anthropology, and applied neuroscience due to my profound passion for helping individuals overcome psychological suffering. My extensive research on human emotions in cognitive psychology and anthropology deepened my fascination with human emotional expression across cultures. This ignited my dedication to caring for people experiencing emotional distress, driven by a belief in their capacity for resilience and self-discovery in the face of life's challenges.

I feel it has chosen me. Although I worked for many years as a software engineer, I was reading Jung in my 20s and was fascinated, though I didn't understand a lot of it. I guess I was on the common...

I feel it has chosen me. Although I worked for many years as a software engineer, I was reading Jung in my 20s and was fascinated, though I didn't understand a lot of it. I guess I was on the common hero's journey path, working in I.T. but also starting to make art. At a certain point I made a serious decision to study art and undertook my MA (Hons) thesis in landscape and imaginal thinking. It was this study that opened up the world of Gestalt to me, particularly its ideas of figure / ground. It was odd how my art works (sculptures), as figures, began to recede and the ground beneath them became more important. I studied Gestalt with my wife, and before we'd finished our study we had already started working with couples together.

Counselling and psychotherapy are able to assist people to heal the root causes of trauma as well as empower people with skills to thrive in the here and now. Through the therapeutic process, we can...

Counselling and psychotherapy are able to assist people to heal the root causes of trauma as well as empower people with skills to thrive in the here and now. Through the therapeutic process, we can uncover and reclaim our innate wisdom and our true selves. I consider it a privilege to be able to walk alongside people through this process, and to be trusted to do so.

The Gestalt philosophy and principles that informed me on how to be a better human being. I was invited to find out for myself how I respond/react to different situations and what is like to be...

The Gestalt philosophy and principles that informed me on how to be a better human being. I was invited to find out for myself how I respond/react to different situations and what is like to be Me....Becoming a practitioner was a by-product of my excitement around my change and growth.

The perception from a young age that human beings live on the surface of themselves and so suffer from their own unconsciousness. I wanted to reach inside to soothe the hurt, and help people to see...

The perception from a young age that human beings live on the surface of themselves and so suffer from their own unconsciousness. I wanted to reach inside to soothe the hurt, and help people to see their beautiful selves.

When I was 11 years old, I came across a Medical Psychiatry textbook. I read about a man with a diagnosis of schizophrenia and became deeply interested in psychology from that moment. As I read and...

When I was 11 years old, I came across a Medical Psychiatry textbook. I read about a man with a diagnosis of schizophrenia and became deeply interested in psychology from that moment. As I read and studied, I realised that I was more interested in understanding human beings and connecting with them through understanding experience, and how we make sense of our lives.

As a manager, leader, parent, uncle and partner over the last 20 years I have found people often seeking me out for advice and support with the challenges of life. After many suggesting that I take up...

As a manager, leader, parent, uncle and partner over the last 20 years I have found people often seeking me out for advice and support with the challenges of life. After many suggesting that I take up a career in counselling and psychotherapy I finally made the decision to do so.

I have always been interested in people and their stories. I think our identity - who we are - is not produced privately and individually but through interaction with others. We benefit from the...

I have always been interested in people and their stories. I think our identity - who we are - is not produced privately and individually but through interaction with others. We benefit from the acknowledgement of others to know ourselves. And having a listener or audience to our life stories can transport us to new places of understanding. So that gives my work purpose and meaning. I commenced my career as a counsellor and social worker because I wanted to do something worthwhile in my life that meant I would be connecting with people. The work that I do is all about valuing relationships, including the therapeutic relationship we establish in our meetings together in the counselling or space. I feel I am privileged to be invited to share in the lives of others and I grow as a person through this process as well.

I have always been interested in the human condition and in relationships and how to enhance them.

I have always been interested in the human condition and in relationships and how to enhance them.

My own experience of psychotherapy when I found myself in a crisis situation. I became more and more intrigued as I explored my unconscious process, my dreams and 'what lies beneath' and how my...

My own experience of psychotherapy when I found myself in a crisis situation. I became more and more intrigued as I explored my unconscious process, my dreams and 'what lies beneath' and how my life-long patterns of relating were played out (and repaired) both in life and in the therapeutic relationship. It never occurred to me that I could enter this profession, until it was suggested to me as a possibility, which I embraced with gusto!

I grew up with a vision impairment and received support for a number of helping professionals, this I think inspired in me an appreciation for the benefit of helping others.

I grew up with a vision impairment and received support for a number of helping professionals, this I think inspired in me an appreciation for the benefit of helping others.

My path into psychotherapy began with my own experience as a client. That work deeply impacted me and affirmed my values of curiosity, empathy, and emotional depth. Iâ??ve always been drawn to the...

My path into psychotherapy began with my own experience as a client. That work deeply impacted me and affirmed my values of curiosity, empathy, and emotional depth. Iâ??ve always been drawn to the complexity of human experienceâ??how we form relationships, make sense of our inner worlds, and carry forward the imprints of our past. With a naturally intuitive style and a longstanding interest in emotions and connection, becoming a therapist felt like a meaningful and natural extension of who I am. Itâ??s a privilege to now offer others the kind of thoughtful, attuned support that shaped my own journey.

I have always marveled at the resilience of the human spirit... and I have wondered what conditions must be present to allow someone to overcome adversity. Having experienced good therapy as a...

I have always marveled at the resilience of the human spirit... and I have wondered what conditions must be present to allow someone to overcome adversity. Having experienced good therapy as a client, it has become clear to me that we could all potentially thrive if we were given empathy, honesty, support, wisdom, loving-kindness, and gentle challenge. While I was a personal support volunteer for the Red Cross, I recognised my own ability to offer those same conditions to others, just by turning my care and attention towards their struggles. From then on, I dedicated myself to learning professional skills that could be used to form warm, supportive, purposeful relationships with my clients.

I was drawn to psychotherapy by a deep interest in attachment theory and the ways our early experiences shape our present lives and relationships. I find it inspiring that, while we cannot always...

I was drawn to psychotherapy by a deep interest in attachment theory and the ways our early experiences shape our present lives and relationships. I find it inspiring that, while we cannot always change others or our circumstances, we can choose to understand ourselves more deeply and create meaningful change from within. This belief in personal empowerment and the transformative potential of self awareness is at the heart of why I chose this profession

After a crisis in my private life I was looking for different ways to live my life. I enrolled in a training program for psychotherapy, and over time I transitioned from being helped to being the...

After a crisis in my private life I was looking for different ways to live my life. I enrolled in a training program for psychotherapy, and over time I transitioned from being helped to being the helper.

Iâ??ve always been drawn to understanding peopleâ??s stories and what helps them heal and grow. My early work in social work and supporting people through adversity showed me the power of...

Iâ??ve always been drawn to understanding peopleâ??s stories and what helps them heal and grow. My early work in social work and supporting people through adversity showed me the power of compassionate listening and connection. Over time, I realised that counselling and psychotherapy were the most meaningful ways for me to support others in finding hope, clarity, and strength, especially during lifeâ??s toughest moments. Helping people feel seen, heard, and empowered continues to inspire me every day.

Before opening my private practice, I worked extensively in hospital and community settings across South Western Sydney. My role as an Accredited Social Worker involved supporting individuals and...

Before opening my private practice, I worked extensively in hospital and community settings across South Western Sydney. My role as an Accredited Social Worker involved supporting individuals and families through some of their most challenging and vulnerable momentsâ??whether it was during a hospital admission, after a diagnosis, or when navigating complex systems like housing, Centrelink, child protection, or mental health services. These years gave me not only clinical experience, but also a deep compassion for the human condition and the resilience we each carryâ??even when we donâ??t feel it.

I have always had a deep interest in who we are as human beings and how we live our lives, how we see ourselves in each of our worlds and how we present ourselves to others. This fascination led me to...

I have always had a deep interest in who we are as human beings and how we live our lives, how we see ourselves in each of our worlds and how we present ourselves to others. This fascination led me to study psychology at Sydney University. After a year I realised this subject could not (for me) fully account for the nuances in human nature. I switched to Italian language and literature. In the post graduate world I ambled through several degrees until I came upon psychotherapy. It was here I found more meaningful ways to talk about and understand what it means to be human.

I chose to be a counsellor as I have a natural inclination to help others and care about health and wellbeing of all people.

I chose to be a counsellor as I have a natural inclination to help others and care about health and wellbeing of all people.

My own personal (ongoing) journey as a client of very good therapy. As I gained understanding and better emotional functioning, improved relationships and healing in so many ways, I wanted to support...

My own personal (ongoing) journey as a client of very good therapy. As I gained understanding and better emotional functioning, improved relationships and healing in so many ways, I wanted to support others to be blessed as I have been.

My family of origin experiences growing up formed the bedrock of my desire to understand individual differences, personal temperament, human suffering and resilience, in the face of life's storms and...

My family of origin experiences growing up formed the bedrock of my desire to understand individual differences, personal temperament, human suffering and resilience, in the face of life's storms and relational challenges.

Since my student days I've been interested in psychotherapy, particularly in relation to literature and art, which I studied at university. After a rewarding academic, writing and publishing career, I...

Since my student days I've been interested in psychotherapy, particularly in relation to literature and art, which I studied at university. After a rewarding academic, writing and publishing career, I returned to my early interests, and decided to retrain as a counsellor and psychotherapist, making use of my academic teaching skills as well as mentoring and pastoral care, while gaining new skills in counselling. I've always found helping others rewarding, and I love the intellectual and emotional challenges of seeing someone whole, while providing empathetic and respectful guidance for clients as they seek self-understanding, personal growth and acceptance.

I believe we all have a unique gift to offer the world. It was in my own pursuit of peace and purpose I became interested in therapy. Firstly I received it and then I became interested in becoming a...

I believe we all have a unique gift to offer the world. It was in my own pursuit of peace and purpose I became interested in therapy. Firstly I received it and then I became interested in becoming a therapist. When a close family friend committed suicide, this propelled me to join Lifeline and that's when I began to learn how to sit with someone in distress. Since then I have continued on to study a Diploma in Counselling, then a Masters in Gestalt.

I first studied massage, and was intrigued at the way people would, week after week, re-create in their bodies the tensions I had massaged away the week before. This led me to investigate the...

I first studied massage, and was intrigued at the way people would, week after week, re-create in their bodies the tensions I had massaged away the week before. This led me to investigate the mind-body connection, and eventually to study Somatic Psychotherapy, in which mental, emotional and physical experience are seen as not only connected but as facets of a greater whole.

I have always been curious about human behaviour, what makes people the way they are, the things they do. I have always been interested in others' experiences, what they liked and disliked, why they...

I have always been curious about human behaviour, what makes people the way they are, the things they do. I have always been interested in others' experiences, what they liked and disliked, why they did something; e.g., why go to all the effort of writing a film or a piece of music. Were they intending to express something specific or did it just come out automatically (or both). I would ask questions, listen and try to see the world from their point of view. This was a way for me to have another experience myself.

I was going through some issues of my own in my 20's. A good friend suggested I see a wise and insightful Clinical Social Worker, Bev. She had such a profound impact on my life that I decided to...

I was going through some issues of my own in my 20's. A good friend suggested I see a wise and insightful Clinical Social Worker, Bev. She had such a profound impact on my life that I decided to change professions. I enrolled to study Social Work at Sydney University and began volunteering as phone counsellor. My field placement with Relationships Australia was another important influence as was meeting a gifted body-mind psychotherapist in 1999. This lead me to study a more holistic approach to psychotherapy involving the mind-body connection, and how that shapes our brain, emotions and behaviours.

A deep curiosity and interest in people and the human condition.

A deep curiosity and interest in people and the human condition.

Having benefited from counselling myself I understand the amazing support this service can offer.

Having benefited from counselling myself I understand the amazing support this service can offer.

I have a background in community work that allowed me the immense privilege of being with people during vulnerable moments of their lives. This lead me to choose a social work degree, which then lead...

I have a background in community work that allowed me the immense privilege of being with people during vulnerable moments of their lives. This lead me to choose a social work degree, which then lead to my specialising in mental health. Now I can be with in a different, and more profound, way.

Life offered me a chance to teach music in a maximum security gaol. This opened my eyes to the power of music to heal and connect. So, I studied for my post-grad qualifications and started working...

Life offered me a chance to teach music in a maximum security gaol. This opened my eyes to the power of music to heal and connect. So, I studied for my post-grad qualifications and started working initially in disability work. After a few years, I transitioned to working with children who have experienced intergenerational trauma. This reinforced my understanding of musicâ??s extraordinary capacities, but, thanks to working alongside art, dance, drama, and play therapists (as well as a social worker), it also introduced me to the power of play and connection. So, I feel comfortable including elements of these modalities into our sessions, if that is what suits you. After 12 years, I left the childhood trauma role and took up part-time work in an acute adolescent mental health unit, and another part-time role in a hospice for adolescents and young adults, as well as my private practice mental health and NDIS work. From what I can tell, all of us seek the same thing, positive relationships with our self and others. Along this path, I have lost 8 mates to suicide; all of whom were under clinical care for their mental health. I feel that menâ??s mental health is critically important to our society, and can be done better than it generally is. So, for the past 6 or so years, in addition to my work with women and children, I have been putting extra energy into supporting menâ??s mental health needs. Meanwhile, I continue to live my lifeâ?¦ travelling, training martial arts, building loving relationships, spending time in natureâ?¦ all of which informs and enriches my therapy work.

My passion for psychotherapy emerged out of my own experience of being a client in therapy in my mid 20's. Going to psychotherapy made a big difference to myself. I then began studying psychology and...

My passion for psychotherapy emerged out of my own experience of being a client in therapy in my mid 20's. Going to psychotherapy made a big difference to myself. I then began studying psychology and when I was ready, I opened my practice as a psychologist. I do get a lot of pleasure out of seeing people, grow, develop and learn to manage their mental health concerns. I think the importance of psychotherapy is underestimated in our society. Psychotherapy is very important for developing the skills to face the challenges of life in effective ways. Psychological skills should be taught to us as we grow up.

During a therapy session in my early twenties it dawned on me that if I trained as a therapist I could support others through the same process I was experiencing myself. A process I was deeply...

During a therapy session in my early twenties it dawned on me that if I trained as a therapist I could support others through the same process I was experiencing myself. A process I was deeply grateful for. My experience as a therapy client had been invaluable. It allowed me to understand who I was and how I had been shaped by my family history and my early development. Lived experience of the psychotherapeutic process led me to discover who I was within the broader context of family of origin. It facilitated my insight into how I perceived myself, my important relationships and the world. My perception of life and relationships changed and broadened. I felt better able to self-regulate, to discover myself anew, to better understand my parents and my family and their lot in life, and to take responsibility for myself in the life I had been given. It has allowed me to guide myself where I want to my life path to go, within the limitations of who I am and the cards I have been dealt in life. Helping others to do the same is a natural extension of the work I have done myself.

Having worked for many years to become a licensed psychologist my values inspire me to be of service to others in a meaningful way. It's important to keep growing and learning.. This leads me to...

Having worked for many years to become a licensed psychologist my values inspire me to be of service to others in a meaningful way. It's important to keep growing and learning.. This leads me to the helping field and specializing in trauma processing using EMDR, Tapping, and Parts Therapy Resource Therapy.

For as long as I can remember I've been interested in how life works, its meaning and purpose, the why's and how's of existence. Philosophy, psychology, and spirituality deal with these issues, and...

For as long as I can remember I've been interested in how life works, its meaning and purpose, the why's and how's of existence. Philosophy, psychology, and spirituality deal with these issues, and psychotherapy integrates them all and applies them to actual lives. Connected with this is a passion for following the oracle at Delphi's dictum of know thyself', a fascination with reaching my human potential through an exploration of my internal world, which would enable me to offer this process to other people. I am very interested in how individual self-awareness interacts with and contributes to the development/evolution of consciousness of humankind. At some point I realised that my own personal wounds and suffering provided also a strong, albeit for a long time, unconscious motivator to enter this profession. This has sparked my interest in the notion of the wounded healer' and helping others integrate their wounds more consciously. To me psychotherapy is a practice of being aware, fully present, and a witness to someone else's life experience. I have learnt that when I'm able to focus my consciousness in this way it can have a powerful effect on others that can lead to profound changes in perception, sense of self, and experience of life. Another thing I've realised along the way is the importance of care. There seems to be a dearth of real care in many aspects of life, and one of the many things psychotherapy can provide is a sense that someone cares. This can be a profound experience for people who've lived in environments where this quality was sorely missing.

* A deep passion and desire to support people to live the life they want for themselves. * Being able to sit with a therapist when I have experienced my own emotional pain, trauma, grief and loss and...

* A deep passion and desire to support people to live the life they want for themselves. * Being able to sit with a therapist when I have experienced my own emotional pain, trauma, grief and loss and feeling safe to tell my story and support to find my way.

My own experience of transformation through Gestalt Therapy.

My own experience of transformation through Gestalt Therapy.

I was always attracted to the idea of working with people and had a belief that expressing yourself and exploring problems was useful (I suspect my mother's kitchen table conversations with my friends...

I was always attracted to the idea of working with people and had a belief that expressing yourself and exploring problems was useful (I suspect my mother's kitchen table conversations with my friends played a part). My cultural heritage and knowledge about how people hold on to values in the face of hard times and the importance of noticing and speaking about what sustains you and what you appreciate was also something I grew up surrounded by. When I was in year 10 I had to write a psychology report on a character from the novel we were studying. This sparked my interest although report writing is certainly not the favourite part of what I do now! The careers adviser tried to deter me with the image of rats and stats but I was determined to survive it for the sake of the end goal of sharing in people's journeys.

Growing up in a complex family system and then experiencing how life-changing therapy can be.

Growing up in a complex family system and then experiencing how life-changing therapy can be.

My choice to study Social Work initially was due to a strong interest in working with children and the idea of having fun in my job was very important and appealing. Out of rebellion I decided I...

My choice to study Social Work initially was due to a strong interest in working with children and the idea of having fun in my job was very important and appealing. Out of rebellion I decided I didn't want to be a teacher (like everyone else in my family it seemed! - mother, father, step father, grandfather, aunts, uncles.) As I gained experience in working therapeutically with children and the adults in their lives I increasingly enjoyed working creatively with people of all ages and also with groups of people. Continuing to learn about people (our minds, emotions, bodily experiences, dreams etc.) and relationships, led me to expand my awareness of various healing modalities and to study Process Oriented Psychology - the love of my life! I will talk more about this in the next question.

As a young girl still in high school I was always reading books surrounding mental wellness and anything motivational. As it turned out, as an adult all the education and training that I did...

As a young girl still in high school I was always reading books surrounding mental wellness and anything motivational. As it turned out, as an adult all the education and training that I did surrounded helping individuals mentally and emotionally. It is what I can call; a life long passion, and my persistence for learning continues to grow.

I want to help people to understand why they feel and behave the way they do. When people understand *why* they do something, they have the awareness and power to change things and move from just...

I want to help people to understand why they feel and behave the way they do. When people understand *why* they do something, they have the awareness and power to change things and move from just surviving, to thriving.

I grew up in a family dedicated to assisting others through the provision of medical and health services to the community so it is hardly surprising that I developed a strong interest in helping...

I grew up in a family dedicated to assisting others through the provision of medical and health services to the community so it is hardly surprising that I developed a strong interest in helping others from an early age. In spite of this, I ended up working in the investment banking and finance industry specialising in mergers and acquisitions. After ten years of working in the industry I realised that something was missing and I wanted my life to be different. So I took what was for me a very brave step - I started my personal therapeutic journey and asked someone for support. Even though my journey hasn't always been easy and has sometimes been confronting and painful, I received great comfort in the knowledge that I wasn't alone. Now life is easier and less of an effort to manage (even the difficult moments), my heart is more open, my relationships are richer and more honest and I am living more of the life that I want. The dedication that I have to my own self development and my passion for helping others led me to the field of counselling and psychotherapy. I welcome the opportunity to be your companion as you embark on your own personal journey.

A spiritual experience I had when I was 12 years old, following that inner thread led me to this profession - an inner and professional life journey.

A spiritual experience I had when I was 12 years old, following that inner thread led me to this profession - an inner and professional life journey.

I reached a critical time in my life when I was not sure how to carry on. I joined Lifeline as a trainee telephone counsellor, and their training taught me how to listen to others (and myself) with...

I reached a critical time in my life when I was not sure how to carry on. I joined Lifeline as a trainee telephone counsellor, and their training taught me how to listen to others (and myself) with empathy. I became a telephone and face to face counsellor, and went on to train other counsellors and design and facilitate Lifeline's Mens Anger Management groups. Exchanging heartfelt experiences with the men in these groups was fundamental to my decision to become a professional in this area. During this time my new wife and I joined Free To Be Me, a group which taught us about ourselves as a couple, and I found this experience deeply moving and helpful in understanding the dynamics of close relationships and how to make these more loving.

I LOVE my work with children, young people, adults and families. I became a counsellor and social worker in order to assist people with issues that are overwhelming or hard to make sense of. I deeply...

I LOVE my work with children, young people, adults and families. I became a counsellor and social worker in order to assist people with issues that are overwhelming or hard to make sense of. I deeply care about social justice, equality and culture and how these things impact on people. I have stayed in the profession for a long time because it is diverse and rewarding work. Being able to witness and assist people recover from trauma, mental health and substance issues are among the things I enjoy most about the work.

I found such understanding and relief during my own therapy and was able to change unhelpful patterns of behaviour and find more harmony, joy and purpose in life. This success led me to train and work...

I found such understanding and relief during my own therapy and was able to change unhelpful patterns of behaviour and find more harmony, joy and purpose in life. This success led me to train and work in the field of psychotherapy and couples counselling. Every one is whole at their core and healing involves letting go of what is not you and reconnecting to the true you underneath the hurt, protection and adaptation that you have used to get through life.

I have always had a keen interest in understanding people and how their minds work. I find practicing psychology and conducting assessments very rewarding, particularly observing client's reaching...

I have always had a keen interest in understanding people and how their minds work. I find practicing psychology and conducting assessments very rewarding, particularly observing client's reaching their goals. I wanted to work with children and young people in particular as I value early intervention and teaching young people the skills to effectively cope with life's challenges.

I would say that what made me choose psychotherapy as a profession was a fascination for the mind and imagination, as well as deep compassion for suffering.

I would say that what made me choose psychotherapy as a profession was a fascination for the mind and imagination, as well as deep compassion for suffering.

I initially become interested in psychology after reading self-help books in my late 20s. I found that I understood and enjoyed reading about human behaviour and psychology and it started from there....

I initially become interested in psychology after reading self-help books in my late 20s. I found that I understood and enjoyed reading about human behaviour and psychology and it started from there. Since then I have continued my interest and passion for the field and continued learning.

Being born legally blind and only learning to see at the age of 5, had me set off to a diverse start. Back in the 70s bullying was very common which led to a lot of trauma. Additionally, I developed...

Being born legally blind and only learning to see at the age of 5, had me set off to a diverse start. Back in the 70s bullying was very common which led to a lot of trauma. Additionally, I developed food allergies which led to a near-death experience at the age of 13. For a long time I lived dissociated from my body. My recovery followed the path of the wounded healer, which began in my years working as a physiotherapist. To fully return to my body I used bodywork therapies and expressive therapies such as dance therapy. Raising my neurological diverse sons ended in my Diploma in early childhood education. During this time, I learned a lot about intergenerational Trauma. I realised that professionally I reached the limit of my qualifications with my bodywork and decided to become a counsellor. I now live a soulful, joyful family life, and I know healing is possible.

I have always been interested in human behaviour and as I grew older the amount of suffering we can go through as humans became more evident. I am very strength-based by nature and so learning about...

I have always been interested in human behaviour and as I grew older the amount of suffering we can go through as humans became more evident. I am very strength-based by nature and so learning about ways to not only survive but thrive during times of hardship was very appealing to me. We often hear about post-traumatic stress, however post-traumatic growth is also a thing. It is such an honour to walk beside people as they navigate ways to thrive during their hardships whatever they may be.

I have always had a caring attitude and curiosity about people. I have a close family member with Schizophrenia and wanted to know how to be useful for people experiencing extreme states of...

I have always had a caring attitude and curiosity about people. I have a close family member with Schizophrenia and wanted to know how to be useful for people experiencing extreme states of consciousness. I wanted to find meaning in the midst of the difficulty of growing up with someone who experienced psychosis. I worked as a nurse in general and mental health fields. After undergoing profound shamanic spiritual experiences I became very interested in healing and the life paths of healers, and wrote my PhD on this. (Later I wrote my book 'Here There be Soul-Eaters: Sacred Journeys of Nurse Healers' from the PhD). Experiencing psychotherapy during the completion of my PhD led me to study Process Work (Process Oriented Psychology). I am particularly interested in practicing from a framework which does not pathologise the disturbances people go through. Rather, Process Work seeks to uncover the deep meaning and learning held within disturbance. This was particularly helpful for me as a client of therapy, not having my painful and confusing experiences labelled as pathology.