Ms Carolyn Choy

A conversation with Carolyn Choy

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

  For me, there is no greater privilege than being trusted with someone’s story and complete vulnerability. I was drawn to psychotherapy by a deep respect for the resilience of the human spirit and the yearning for growth and change. I believe that with the right support, we can do more than just endure difficulties; we can use them to overcome and thrive.
  
  I chose this profession because I am genuinely fascinated by what makes us unique - what drives us, what we love, and how we navigate pain. I find it incredibly rewarding to walk alongside clients as they do the challenging work of self-discovery, helping them uncover the strength and agency to create lasting change.

• Which philosophical approaches have influenced your professional development?

  My professional worldview is deeply influenced by Existential and Phenomenological philosophies. To me, this means holding a profound respect for difference and meeting every client with an 'open heart' - listening to your unique experience without assumption or judgement.
  
  Philosophically, I view the difficulties we face as an necessary part of the whole picture. I believe that life wouldn't be as rich an experience if everything were always smooth-going. Even though we naturally wish for ease (most of the time!), I believe it is often through overcoming adversity that we discover our true resilience and character.

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

  I find the whole human journey fascinating. I am particularly drawn to our innate resilience - our vitality and our drive to make things better for ourselves and those around us.
  
  I see these qualities in every client, regardless of the specific issues they bring. In so many ways, we are unique, yet fundamentally the same: we all seek deeper connections, a more meaningful life, and a stronger, kinder relationship with ourselves.

• What methods do you use?

  My core training is in the Gestalt approach, a rich and dynamic method that encompasses the 'here and now,' creative experimentation and the therapeutic relationship itself. I have a real passion for collaboration and working with the living dynamic between us.
  
  I work holistically, engaging with the whole of who you are (mind, body, and environment), rather than just focusing on how you think. To support this I integrate influences from Existential, Systemic, Attachment, and Somatic therapies, allowing me to tailor our work to what you need in the moment.

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

  Progress looks different for everyone. For some, simply sharing their story in a safe, non-judgmental environment brings immediate relief and clarity after just one or two sessions.
  
  For deeper work, particularly when working through long-standing patterns or complex trauma, progress is more gradual. It might look like slowly unpacking layers of your experience as you feel safe enough to do so. Regardless of the timeframe, I work to your unique pace, ensuring we move fast enough to see change, but slow enough to feel safe.

• How has therapy made a difference in your life?

  Being a therapist gives me a profound sense of purpose. It is a privilege to be invited into people’s inner worlds and to witness their transformation.
  
  This work constantly reminds me of the resilience of the human spirit. Seeing clients face their challenges and grow helps me stay grounded and grateful in my own life. It has taught me that no matter how stuck we feel, change is always possible and that genuine human connection is the most powerful tool we have.

• What do you like most about being a therapist?

  I love the unique nature of the therapeutic relationship. In our busy lives, it is rare to find a space that is entirely dedicated to you - without agenda, judgement, or expectation.
  
  Being able to offer that sanctuary is what I value most. It is a privilege to create a safe, supportive environment where clients can drop their guard and be truly vulnerable. Witnessing someone use that safety to really get to know themselves, grow and reclaim their life is a wonderful and moving experience

• Do you ever have 'bad hair' days?

  Absolutely! I am just as human as anyone else. Like everyone, I have days where things feel off or life throws a curveball.
  
  I don't believe therapists are meant to be 'perfect' or immune to life’s ups and downs. When I have those days, I try to practice what I preach: slow down, be kind to myself and talk to family and friends. It's normal and more than ok to not to have it all together all the time!

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

  I believe the most significant problem we face today is a profound sense of disconnection. We live in an era where we are more 'connected' than ever digitally, yet many of us feel increasingly isolated, lonely and unseen.
  
  We often lose touch with our own bodies, our true feelings, and the natural world around us. This disconnection is frequently at the root of anxiety and depression. On top of this, we are exhausted from trying to keep up or fit in, leading to burnout and a deep sense of emptiness.
  
  Rebuilding that genuine contact - with ourselves and with others and listening to our own internal wisdom again is the key.

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

  I love the poem 'Desiderata' by Max Ehrmann. Its opening line, 'Go placidly amid the noise and haste' remains consistently relevant in modern life.
  
  I particularly love the confirmation that despite the sham and drudgery, 'it is still a beautiful world'. It captures the spirit of acceptance and hope I cultivate in the therapy room.
  
  I also deeply connect with the poem 'Wild Geese' by Mary Oliver. It begins with the powerful permission that 'You do not have to be good,' and speaks to the 'soft animal of your body.' In a world that constantly demands we improve or perform, this poem is a beautiful reminder of the softness, gentleness, and kindness we owe to ourselves. It speaks to the heart of my work: helping clients let go of shame and reclaim their natural right to be here, exactly as they are.
  
  Desiderata by Max Erhmann [https://cchoy.com.au/desiderata/] and the poem Wild Geese by Mary Oliver [https://cchoy.com.au/wild-geese/]