10 Questions with Amelia Harrison

• What led you to choose psychotherapy or counselling as a profession?

• My path into the Psychotherapy and Counselling sector has evolved over the last 15 years. My journey began in the Education Sector as a welfare support officer, developing a strong relational understanding of the complexity people face in our society. I have had the privilege and opportunity to lead highly experienced and well-respected practitioners in the First Nations arena, who have guided me through decolonised and trauma-informed approaches.

• Which philosophical approaches have influenced your professional/personal development?

• I pride myself on an evolving practice journey, consistently learning and integrating skills throughout my practice. My integrative approach reflects on EFT (Emotional Focus Therapy) techniques, unfolding and expanding, accessing and utilising Play and Art therapy strategies, whilst supporting through a reflecting and trauma-informed approach.

• Which particular aspects of health or the human journey are you interested in?

• My interests expand in knowing that the individual holds the knowledge to their recovery. The expert is not the therapist but the individual themselves. We know that there is no "perfect solution" or "one size fits all" in counselling. However, we can move together in exploring what best fits the individual and how change presents through one's exploration and experience.
  

• What method/s do you use?

• I use a variety of methods to support clients through change. My main ethos is based on an EFT - Emotional Focused Therapy, Somatic Attachment healing and response base approaches.

• When do you think the client will start to feel that progress is being made?

• The client identifies change through reflection and meaning. Offering a safe space for progress, sifting through the challenges and heaviness is a part of the progress in change. As the therapist, I highlight breakthroughs and triumphs, what is more important is how the client feels and connects to these changes.

• How has therapy made you a better person?

• Therapy provided a safe space for me to explore the depth and heartache of self. To unpack and revisit events that have played a significant role in my life. Therapy has further provided a redirection on life decisions and the idealism of self.
  

• What do you like most about being a therapist?

• I enjoy being present with others, being connected and unfolding with the client through their experience. Witnessing moments of clarity and healing is an honouring experience to be a part of.
  

• Do you ever have 'bad hair' days?

• Absolutely! That's life right, whether it’s moving through the transition of life or responding to events and experiences that have been out of my control. I try hard to refocus on self, what do I need and who can help me through this. Most importantly, taking the pressure off self when experiencing 'bad hair’ days is paramount.
  

• What do you think is the most significant problem we face, in the world today?

• Disconnection for one another, Active listening and compassion. Covid has been really difficult for some and enlightening for others. When we can show empathy and humanity we can connect with others without fear and judgment.

• Can you share the name of a book, film, song, event or work of art that inspires you?

• 'Set Boundaires, Find Peace' - Nedra Tawwab
  'How to do the Work' - The Holistic Pscyhologist