Psychotherapists and Counsellors Answer your Questions

There are too many reasons to be depressed at the state of the world. The violence, ignorance, greed & corruption are everywhere. It is bewildering. Yet, how to stay curious, connected, present,...

There are too many reasons to be depressed at the state of the world. The violence, ignorance, greed & corruption are everywhere. It is bewildering. Yet, how to stay curious, connected, present, inspired. Despite the state of the world, these states are all available.

There are so many - where do I start! I know that all I can do is do the best I can on any given day and hope I can be that candle in the darkness for my clients when they need it most...so we can...

There are so many - where do I start! I know that all I can do is do the best I can on any given day and hope I can be that candle in the darkness for my clients when they need it most...so we can walk out of the darkness together and they continue their journey with a new sense of hope and inspiration.

A significant problem we face today is disconnectionâ??from our bodies, each other, the land, and our sense of meaning. In a culture that prizes productivity and perfection, we often lose touch with...

A significant problem we face today is disconnectionâ??from our bodies, each other, the land, and our sense of meaning. In a culture that prizes productivity and perfection, we often lose touch with what truly sustains us: belonging, purpose, and embodied presence.

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

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

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.

Disconnection

Disconnection

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.

I think our greatest problem is the experience of isolation and disconnection from ourselves, each other and the world. I think this has developed as a result of a cultural focus on ourselves as...

I think our greatest problem is the experience of isolation and disconnection from ourselves, each other and the world. I think this has developed as a result of a cultural focus on ourselves as individuals where our needs and desires drive us towards our own ends and achievements. This way of life has blinded us to the natural value of community and connection and we have set ourselves up to be consumers competing against each other. The attitudes and behaviours that are a part of this lifestyle leave room for the creation of fear and distrust and lead us away from the natural goodness that lies at the heart of humanity.

I believe one of the most significant problems we face today is disconnectionâ??whether itâ??s from ourselves, others, or our communities. With the pace of modern life, itâ??s easy to feel...

I believe one of the most significant problems we face today is disconnectionâ??whether itâ??s from ourselves, others, or our communities. With the pace of modern life, itâ??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 connectionsâ??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.

Listening to our inner worlds, listening to each other in our relationship with family members, colleagues at work, students and staff at school, members of organisations, government, cultural and...

Listening to our inner worlds, listening to each other in our relationship with family members, colleagues at work, students and staff at school, members of organisations, government, cultural and community groups, in political, religious, sporting contexts locally and internationally.

One of the most significant challenges we face is disconnectionâ??both from ourselves and from one another. Social inequality, discrimination, and stigma continue to harm individuals and communities,...

One of the most significant challenges we face is disconnectionâ??both from ourselves and from one another. Social inequality, discrimination, and stigma continue to harm individuals and communities, often leaving people feeling isolated or unseen. I believe fostering inclusion, compassion, and genuine connection is essential to addressing these issues and supporting collective wellbeing.

War and injustice come firstly to my mind.

War and injustice come firstly to my mind.

Thinking that the parts of us which are anxious, angry, addicted, etc are the problem. They aren't the problem, the problem is the burdens they carry. If we fight against the parts of people we fight...

Thinking that the parts of us which are anxious, angry, addicted, etc are the problem. They aren't the problem, the problem is the burdens they carry. If we fight against the parts of people we fight against people. We need to collectively release the burdens from our internal and external communities, not the people.

Maintaining hope and preserving Self. Staying gentle but not passive, receptive but protective, which is a difficult balancing act.

Maintaining hope and preserving Self. Staying gentle but not passive, receptive but protective, which is a difficult balancing act.

Honestly, I think it's our disconnection with ourself, others, and above all (and I'd say, most importantly) with God. This disconnection with self, others, and God leads to an inability to sit...

Honestly, I think it's our disconnection with ourself, others, and above all (and I'd say, most importantly) with God. This disconnection with self, others, and God leads to an 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 develop deeper connections with ourself, others, and God. 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 and therefore maintaining disconnection? There's so much knowledge, understanding, and growth to be had by sitting with and exploring our discomfort and disconnection.

I baulked at this question... I don't know if it's possible to answer, but I tip my hat to all the therapists on here who have tried! But seriously, if I had to pick one overarching issue,...

I baulked at this question... I don't know if it's possible to answer, but I tip my hat to all the therapists on here who have tried! But seriously, if I had to pick one overarching issue, itâ??s this: the systems weâ??ve built often devalue what makes us human - our differences, our creativity, our messiness. Whether itâ??s ableism, imperialism, transphobia, racism, or classism, these structures thrive on conformity and exclusion, leaving so many people feeling like they donâ??t belong. And when you add in things like climate change, late-stage capitalism, and the endless churn of bureaucracyâ?¦ Well, itâ??s no wonder so many of us are overwhelmed. That said, the flip side of all this is that we're incredibly resilient, resourceful, and good at finding connection, even in the messiest of times. Every day, I see people challenging these systems, building communities, and creating spaces where authenticity and care come first. So, while I canâ??t pinpoint *the* most significant problem (because honestly, who can?), I know that fostering collective care, justice, and mutual support is a pretty solid place to start.

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

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.

When group think interferes with individual and social cohesion.

When group think interferes with individual and social cohesion.

Communication is often the most significant challenge many clients face, closely followed by issues of trustâ??both in themselves and in others. Reflecting on this, it raises an important question:...

Communication is often the most significant challenge many clients face, closely followed by issues of trustâ??both in themselves and in others. Reflecting on this, it raises an important question: What is the most pressing problem we encounter in the world today? For many, it may well be the struggle to connect authentically and build trust in our relationships. Addressing these fundamental issues is key to fostering understanding, healing, and stronger connections in both our personal lives and communities.

Identifying and understanding our own aggression.

Identifying and understanding our own aggression.

Greed and disconnection.

Greed and disconnection.

Inequality is a major issue because it perpetuates poverty, limits opportunities, and creates divisions in society. Addressing it is key to fostering a more just, equitable world where everyone has...

Inequality is a major issue because it perpetuates poverty, limits opportunities, and creates divisions in society. Addressing it is key to fostering a more just, equitable world where everyone has the chance to thrive.

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.

Social isolation and the loss of community

Social isolation and the loss of community

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.

I believe the most significant problem we face today is the growing mental health crisis. Rising levels of anxiety, depression, and stress are affecting many people, fueled by factors like social...

I believe the most significant problem we face today is the growing mental health crisis. Rising levels of anxiety, depression, and stress are affecting many people, fueled by factors like social isolation, economic instability, and global challenges. Mental health often gets overlooked or stigmatized, making it harder for people to seek help. Addressing this issue by increasing awareness and improving access to resources is crucial for our overall well-being.

Negative stigma around taking care of your mental health.

Negative stigma around taking care of your mental health.

climate change, the inability to see from another perspective and lack of boundaries.

climate change, the inability to see from another perspective and lack of boundaries.

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.

Lack of faith trust and love

Lack of faith trust and love

The most significant problem we face today is a deep fear of vulnerability, which prevents us from showing our true selves and admitting to our fears and insecurities. This fear, combined with a...

The most significant problem we face today is a deep fear of vulnerability, which prevents us from showing our true selves and admitting to our fears and insecurities. This fear, combined with a growing sense of disconnection from ourselves, others and our environment, leaves many of us feeling numb, alone and adrift in a world full of endless distractions and comparison traps.

We face a multitude of problems all at the same time presented to us in real time courtesy of our devices 24/7. If we wanted to, we could bury ourselves in individual, communal and global crisis...

We face a multitude of problems all at the same time presented to us in real time courtesy of our devices 24/7. If we wanted to, we could bury ourselves in individual, communal and global crisis without much pause. Thus delineating boundaries for your mental health has become the most challenging, but necessary aspect of living within the world today.

The world is facing a growing mental health crisis, which has been exacerbated by the pandemic, economic pressures, and societal stresses. Mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and burnout...

The world is facing a growing mental health crisis, which has been exacerbated by the pandemic, economic pressures, and societal stresses. Mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and burnout are on the rise, and there is a need for greater access to mental health care, as well as reducing the stigma around seeking help. This is one of the pivotal reasons which lead me to counselling.

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.

Violence towards one another and the environment

Violence towards one another and the environment

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.

One of the most significant problems we face in the world today is the pervasive sense of disconnectionâ??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 disconnectionâ??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.

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

Climate Change and degradation of the planet.

Climate Change and degradation of the planet.

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

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

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.

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.

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