About me
MY APPROACH
I am a counsellor with almost 10 years' experience supporting adults with their alcohol and other drug use, mental health concerns and other life challenges, as well as people affected by someone else’s drinking or drug use. My background is in social work, and I have worked across not-for-profit and community services settings, including alcohol and other drug treatment, harm reduction and family support.
My approach is practical, collaborative and non-judgemental. I aim to create a space where you feel comfortable talking openly, making sense of what's happening, and identifying the changes that feel right for you.
LGBTQIA+ AFFIRMING PRACTICE
I welcome people of all genders and sexual orientations. My approach is LGBTQIA+ affirming, providing a space where you feel safe, respected and able to be yourself.
I provide queer-affirming therapy and supervision that acknowledges the impact of minority stress and discrimination on wellbeing while also celebrating the strengths, resilience and capacity for joy in our communities. I also recognise the importance of chosen family and the ways LGBTQIA+ communities foster connection, support and belonging.
Therapeutic Approach
Rather than working from a single therapeutic model, I draw on a range of evidence-based approaches and adapt these to each person's goals, strengths and circumstances.
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
Explores the connections between thoughts, emotions and behaviours, and helps develop more helpful ways of thinking about and responding to yourself, others and the situations you face. CBT has a strong evidence base for anxiety, depression and alcohol and other drug concerns.
Motivational interviewing
Recognises that motivation is the essential ingredient for change and explores your own reasons for change, focusing on what matters to you. This includes working through ambivalence and building confidence in your ability to make changes.
Compassion-focused therapy
Helps reduce shame and self-criticism and develop greater compassion towards yourself and others. It also builds the ability to self-soothe and respond more effectively to difficult emotions.
Mindfulness and relaxation
Mindfulness builds awareness of the present moment, including thoughts, emotions and physical sensations, and is about learning the skill of responding rather than reacting. Relaxation strategies provide practical ways to reduce physical tension and stress, manage anxiety and improve sleep.
qualifications
Bachelor of Social Work
Graduate Certificate in Mental Health
Member, Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW)