Psychotherapists and Counsellors Answer your Questions

From a young age I have been very interested in people and fascinated by people's stories. I remember when I was around 10 years old being very moved by the film The Three Faces of Eve, about a woman...

From a young age I have been very interested in people and fascinated by people's stories. I remember when I was around 10 years old being very moved by the film The Three Faces of Eve, about a woman with disocciative identity disorder, and from that time being drawn to this vocation. I deeply believe in the healing capacity of therapeutic work and offering what I can to help catalyse the self-healing process. In addition, I went through a couple of periods of feeling very distressed, stuck, and through working with a therapist found a way out of this.

I was always interested in communication, and the more experienced I became in my profession, the deeper I wanted to explore the therapy modalities. I worked for some time in an acute psychiatric ward...

I was always interested in communication, and the more experienced I became in my profession, the deeper I wanted to explore the therapy modalities. I worked for some time in an acute psychiatric ward where I learned family therapy (Milan school) and realised that even in psychosis, every act and statement was symbolic and had a meaning for the person, and even if it was difficult to decipher, with persistence one could understand the message the person was trying to communicate. This lead me to the master analyst of symbolic communication, Dr. Carl Jung and his writings. When I was able, I sold my house and trained in Switzerland as a Jungian Analyst.

I believe in people's potential and knew I wanted to help people. I studied psychology at university and then went looking for something more meaningful to me and that's when I enrolled in the...

I believe in people's potential and knew I wanted to help people. I studied psychology at university and then went looking for something more meaningful to me and that's when I enrolled in the transpersonal counselling diploma. I started working with a psychotherapist and through my relationship with her and looking at my dreams I learnt about Jung, dreams and the process of Individuation.

I have never been able to think of any profession more interesting than dynamic psychotherapy, where we encounter the unconscious every day. Not that other professions or relationships are without...

I have never been able to think of any profession more interesting than dynamic psychotherapy, where we encounter the unconscious every day. Not that other professions or relationships are without transferences or an unconscious, but psychotherapy contains an intentional interest into the unconscious. In a sense, people pay you to interpret their unconscious. And, I have never worked with someone and not learned something new, and for this reason I would never choose another profession.

I was blessed to have an existential crisis at a very early age. It threw me into doubting all that I had been educated to believe was meaningful and true. The outcome of this was that I began a...

I was blessed to have an existential crisis at a very early age. It threw me into doubting all that I had been educated to believe was meaningful and true. The outcome of this was that I began a high-octane search for a truth that was authentic and substantial. Experiential psychotherapy and meditation, together proved to be perfect allies in my search. As they worked for me, so I became motivated to share what I have learned (unlearned?) with others.

I have always reached out to those around me in need of help. In my 20s I realized I myself needed help and this was the start of a wonderful journey of self-discovery and healing. I now look back on...

I have always reached out to those around me in need of help. In my 20s I realized I myself needed help and this was the start of a wonderful journey of self-discovery and healing. I now look back on this with deep gratitude and feel called to help others as I have been. I believe that exploring and uncovering what is really going on for someone and helping them to discover the true wonder of themselves is precious. I feel blessed to work with people in this way. Everyone deserves to feel inner peace and a sense of completeness and cost, background or age should not be a barrier. One does not become enlightened by imagining figures of light, but by making the darkness conscious' Carl Jung

Art and literature explore what it is to be a human being and some art works and books explore psychoanalysis in particular. Studying counselling and then psychoanalysis was a logical extension of my...

Art and literature explore what it is to be a human being and some art works and books explore psychoanalysis in particular. Studying counselling and then psychoanalysis was a logical extension of my interest in these themes and practices. My work is, among other things, about freedom of expression. More accurately, it's concerned with free-speak, an ever-emergent practice in the present tense, rather than a formal creed or principle. Some of you may know that my father was part of the violent suppression of the Welsh language. This meant that he and his fellow primary-aged students were hit by their teachers if they were heard speaking Welsh in the attempt to eradicate the Welsh language and culture one child at a time (a language which is now flourishing). I was a child myself when he told me about this, so I've long valued the rights of people to speak their own language, in their own way. This extends to the freedom to speak and write more broadly. You probably know about PEN International, but let me remind you. PEN brings into practice the principle of freedom of expression by defending the rights that ensue - they protect, shelter and resettle writers at risk of harm, imprisonment or death. They also conduct research, promote suppressed world literature, provide advice, advocacy and access to legal help and more. I donate a percentage of each counselling and supervision session fee to them. In this way I feel that I support the individual to speak in the session, and together we support the individual to write (and speak) in the world. I encourage you to connect with their work, here: https://www.pen-international.org/what-we-do

My parents were foster parents and i was exposed to social workers and social services at a young age. Through my social work career i got to know colleagues who were counsellors and was drawn to...

My parents were foster parents and i was exposed to social workers and social services at a young age. Through my social work career i got to know colleagues who were counsellors and was drawn to working more intimately one on one with clients.

I have always been fascinated by the human mind, and it was through theatre, literature and philosophy that I originally pursued this interest. My own journey of self-discovery and healing led me to...

I have always been fascinated by the human mind, and it was through theatre, literature and philosophy that I originally pursued this interest. My own journey of self-discovery and healing led me to undertake my own personal therapy (an essential experience for anyone interested in becoming a therapist ). This eventually led to me becoming a psychotherapist myself.

I have always been interested in human sciences and the connection between thoughts, feelings and emotions. I started out volunteering as a counsellor 15 years ago and found I learnt so much about...

I have always been interested in human sciences and the connection between thoughts, feelings and emotions. I started out volunteering as a counsellor 15 years ago and found I learnt so much about individual stories people bring to the work.

This profession was always something I knew was meant for me. I decided on this pathway at the age of 12 and although had hit the usual stumbling blocks along the way, I eventually found my place. I...

This profession was always something I knew was meant for me. I decided on this pathway at the age of 12 and although had hit the usual stumbling blocks along the way, I eventually found my place. I come from a big family - immediate and extended - so from an early age I understood the variety of personalities and characters that can emerge from the one source and how they interact and interplay with one another. This led me to observing the same thing in my friendship groups and soon led to me playing the unofficial counsellor role; a role that fit like a second skin.

I have had an interest from a very young age to connect with people - to be present in their difficulties, to sit with their uncomfortable emotions. I guess that was what eventually got transpired in...

I have had an interest from a very young age to connect with people - to be present in their difficulties, to sit with their uncomfortable emotions. I guess that was what eventually got transpired in me becoming a professional counsellor. My Buddhist practises of compassion, loving kindness, meditation and mindful awareness practices paved the way for my internal development and my profession to be part and parcel of the same.

I believe in service and compassion as a way of being which gives back to me as much as I give to others.

I believe in service and compassion as a way of being which gives back to me as much as I give to others.

From an early age I have been interested in science, the arts, literature, philosophy and the nature of reality. My interest in psychotherapy grew naturally from these earlier preoccupations.

From an early age I have been interested in science, the arts, literature, philosophy and the nature of reality. My interest in psychotherapy grew naturally from these earlier preoccupations.

I had a rough start to life, which ignited a burning desire to answer a simple question: why do people do what they do? As early as my teens I developed an interest in psychology and self-development,...

I had a rough start to life, which ignited a burning desire to answer a simple question: why do people do what they do? As early as my teens I developed an interest in psychology and self-development, which steadily evolved into a dream to become a psychotherapist. While the Enneagram has gone a long way in providing answers to that initial question, I am still driven by a curiosity to learn about people and to offer them understanding, rather than answers or quick fixes.

Personal experiences of suffering and healing inspired me to want to provide psychotherapy to people to help them overcome their suffering.

Personal experiences of suffering and healing inspired me to want to provide psychotherapy to people to help them overcome their suffering.

Counselling addresses fundamental aspects of human well-being, which I find exciting. It empowers individuals to overcome challenges, achieve personal growth, and lead more fulfilling lives. The...

Counselling addresses fundamental aspects of human well-being, which I find exciting. It empowers individuals to overcome challenges, achieve personal growth, and lead more fulfilling lives. The impact of counselling extends beyond the individual client, benefiting families, communities, and society.

I've always struggled with superficial conversation, preferring to hear about what is meaningful to people. The idea of discussing what matters most and finding ways to help move towards that with...

I've always struggled with superficial conversation, preferring to hear about what is meaningful to people. The idea of discussing what matters most and finding ways to help move towards that with purpose sounded like something I wanted to do for the rest of my life. I still pinch myself everyday, knowing I get to do this for a living.

I was interested in working with people and being part of their journey towards wellness and wholeness. I discovered that the work enabled me to do my own work on my personal issues through...

I was interested in working with people and being part of their journey towards wellness and wholeness. I discovered that the work enabled me to do my own work on my personal issues through supervision with mentors, professional and personal development courses and workshops, and through my own counselling experience.

The intrinsic quality that each subject has something to say that needs to be witnessed and heard. The idea and feeling that one's voice could be buried under layers of categories, diagnoses and...

The intrinsic quality that each subject has something to say that needs to be witnessed and heard. The idea and feeling that one's voice could be buried under layers of categories, diagnoses and prescriptive 'cures' does not reach at the heart of one's individual pain and circumstances. To actually be heard as yourself is a liberation; also, to come to know that one is responsible for one's own 'health' is also a liberation. The work of listening to the subject--one by one--is very important to me.

It was something I had always considered, but initially I went down the IT path. After the death of my Mother I decided to pursue becoming a counsellor. I'd always been interested in what makes humans...

It was something I had always considered, but initially I went down the IT path. After the death of my Mother I decided to pursue becoming a counsellor. I'd always been interested in what makes humans act and react the way they do, so studying it was fascinating.

The exploration of subjectivity.

The exploration of subjectivity.

I chose the counselling profession because I have a strong desire to help people improve their lives. I have an interest in people transitioning through challenging experiences. Some transitions...

I chose the counselling profession because I have a strong desire to help people improve their lives. I have an interest in people transitioning through challenging experiences. Some transitions include parenthood, mid life crisis, grief and loss, trauma, puberty, menopause, identity crisis, depression, relationship issues and career transitions.

I am drawn to working with individuals who may be dealing with challenges which can negatively affect mental health as I know from experience that whether these create or trigger trauma, and how long...

I am drawn to working with individuals who may be dealing with challenges which can negatively affect mental health as I know from experience that whether these create or trigger trauma, and how long this may continue to be acute or prolonged, can depend on how supported they feel in acknowledging and processing their emotional responses, and gradually beginning to make meaning from these events. I am an excellent listener and have been told that I have a calming voice and presence, and this helps to create a safe space to walk alongside others in their journey so that they do not feel that they have to do it alone, which can make any situation seem even more overwhelming.

In the early 2000s I reached a cross-road and a knowing that something was missing in my personal life and in my career. So I began studying psychotherapy and took classes at the Cairnmillar Insitute...

In the early 2000s I reached a cross-road and a knowing that something was missing in my personal life and in my career. So I began studying psychotherapy and took classes at the Cairnmillar Insitute in Melbourne, Australia. Immersed in the field of psychotherapy, there awakened in me a passion for understanding people's inner emotional and psychological worlds and helping them in their growth and healing. Prior to counselling, I worked for many years in education as an academic, teaching Indonesian language, and in business as business director of a tutoring business and as consultant in human resource managment in the early 2000s. A few years later I moved into the role of Research Fellow in Asian theatre studies. While I have loved assisting people in their learning in specific work related areas, I realised I was more and more drawn to helping people holistically, ie helping the whole person in the context of their life.

I've spent lot's of time with people from all walks of life and backgrounds and am an inherently curious person who tries to understand people and human relationships. I've always been a big reader...

I've spent lot's of time with people from all walks of life and backgrounds and am an inherently curious person who tries to understand people and human relationships. I've always been a big reader and enjoyed reading authors that understand the complexity of people and the human experience. I previously worked in physical health and found that the origins of people's physical suffering was often more complex than initially appeared. This lead me to want to understand people and human suffering at a deeper and more complex level.

I find people infinitely fascinating and find helping people a satisfying endeavor.

I find people infinitely fascinating and find helping people a satisfying endeavor.

Having navigated a number of difficult life situations myself, I have developed strong empathy and passion for supporting others.

Having navigated a number of difficult life situations myself, I have developed strong empathy and passion for supporting others.

I have always had a natural pull towards assisting individuals around me throughout various situations. Now, actually having the skills and tools to be able to assist others, has given me a true...

I have always had a natural pull towards assisting individuals around me throughout various situations. Now, actually having the skills and tools to be able to assist others, has given me a true purpose and yet again confirmed that this is the path I have always been destined for. Practicing as a counsellor has allowed me to assist individuals to find their unique path and achieve their short and long term goals in life. There is no end to education and learning. My primary goal as a therapist, is to assist clients as best I can.

An interest in the resilience of peoples' coping styles and a desire to learn how they have developed over their lifetime.

An interest in the resilience of peoples' coping styles and a desire to learn how they have developed over their lifetime.

I am passionate about working with the human condition and consider it a great privilege to be able to help individuals, couples and families to create a better life, relationships and future for...

I am passionate about working with the human condition and consider it a great privilege to be able to help individuals, couples and families to create a better life, relationships and future for themselves. It brings me tremendous satisfaction to witness people overcome their difficulties and grow and change for the better.

It is a cliche, but I was one of those kids who wanted to 'help people' when he grew up. I couldn't think of any other profession that was as direct in this sense, as the work of a psychologist. So,...

It is a cliche, but I was one of those kids who wanted to 'help people' when he grew up. I couldn't think of any other profession that was as direct in this sense, as the work of a psychologist. So, that's what I pursued. As an 18-year-old, the long journey required to become a psychologist was difficult to comprehend. I studied for four years initially before undertaking a two-year internship, which involved regular supervision and study. After that, I completed a further two years of study for a masters program. Then still, there is a two-year registrar program, which involves regular case reviews and supervision. Now, at 40 years of age, I am pursuing a PhD study in neurofeedback for the treatment of post traumatic stress disorder, and the ways that early trauma and neglect contribute to the trauma response. I like the challenge that is the work of a psychologist; both personally, and professionally. This work requires that we are never completely separate from it in that our own growth becomes part of the work we do with others. It is a field that is constantly changing as new research becomes available. I read constantly about the brain, I read about old and new techniques, and I have also engaged a lot in my own therapy. To be a therapist in therapy is interesting, because it shows us what it's like to be vulnerable (and even skeptical of the therapist). It is also a way to learn new approaches in a completely experiential way. The rewards of this work are also great. After many years working in the field, the privilege of working so intimately with people still feels very real to me.

It's been a long journey. I did a psychology degree in my 20s, and as a sub-major studied philosophy and religious studies subjects. I learnt so much, but had serious issues with the diagnostic and...

It's been a long journey. I did a psychology degree in my 20s, and as a sub-major studied philosophy and religious studies subjects. I learnt so much, but had serious issues with the diagnostic and labelling approach of psychology in those days, was young, still finding my way in life, and was enjoying my working life as a Hansard reporter. After having children, I returned to study. My social work degree was a wonderful experience, allowing me to further my inclination towards helping individuals not just at the personal level but also through advocacy and political pathways. In my work as a social worker, I met people who opened my mind and heart, and found myself learning something new everyday. I then did a Masters, learning new techniques and approaches in areas that interested me, and helping me feel authentically ready to be a therapist.

I wanted to be a psychologist since high-school always having a strong desire to help those under emotional and mental distress. I completed the undergraduate training in psychology however the...

I wanted to be a psychologist since high-school always having a strong desire to help those under emotional and mental distress. I completed the undergraduate training in psychology however the Government at the time removed student loans which meant I could not afford to do post-graduate training at that time. I became a social worker and begun my career as a counselor however I always wanted the further training in treating more significant mental health issues and so returned to post-graduated studies in Clinical Psychology in 2014. With the increase in anxiety and depression I have not regretted this decision. I enjoy the emphasis on evidence based practice which psychology provides. I want to know that the interventions I plan and deliver with my clients have the best chance of creating sustained change. I don't want to waste anyone's time or money!

I reached a point a few years ago, and having raised a family and learned to help my kids through their tough times, I thought I might be able to use those experiences to help others. So I applied to...

I reached a point a few years ago, and having raised a family and learned to help my kids through their tough times, I thought I might be able to use those experiences to help others. So I applied to study counselling and I found I loved it. I also developed a much deeper understanding of myself in the process.

One of the reasons why I chose this profession was because I always had a strong desire to help others and to assist people with the challenges of daily living. Therapy also creates positive change....

One of the reasons why I chose this profession was because I always had a strong desire to help others and to assist people with the challenges of daily living. Therapy also creates positive change. Some other aspects included … • Seeking meaningful work by making a difference in my clients life; • Its is an industry where life experience is valued; • I am a brilliant listener and wanted to help people feel heard; • I also wanted to experience a feeling of purpose and fulfilment in the work I did and give back to the community.

I chose a counselling as a career due to a desire to help others overcome personal challenges and improve their mental health and well-being. Additionally, I have always had a strong interest in the...

I chose a counselling as a career due to a desire to help others overcome personal challenges and improve their mental health and well-being. Additionally, I have always had a strong interest in the human mind and emotions, and want to use my skills and knowledge to make a positive difference in people's lives. Actually, it was my therapist during a time of transition who suggested I study counselling. I never looked back. I moved from a high pressure advertising career into counselling. Being able to help people, listen and support them adds so much meaning into my life.

Most of my life people have been coming to me to share their stories and issues. In my first experience as a client in counselling I felt inspired and began to consider whether I wanted to be a...

Most of my life people have been coming to me to share their stories and issues. In my first experience as a client in counselling I felt inspired and began to consider whether I wanted to be a therapist myself. When I first started studying psychology it fit me, which was in stark contrast to what previous studies felt like. It feels like its genuinely me. People fascinate me and my curiosity and empathy in the work has not diminished in two decades. As a creative person, dealing with the complexities of people has been a very compelling challenge in adapting to what a specific person needs.

Since I was a little girl, I have always been passionate about understanding and supporting others on their journey of personal growth and well-being. I was naturally drawn to listening to people's...

Since I was a little girl, I have always been passionate about understanding and supporting others on their journey of personal growth and well-being. I was naturally drawn to listening to people's stories, offering a compassionate ear, and providing guidance during difficult times. This innate desire to help and make a positive impact led me to choose psychotherapy or counseling as a profession. Witnessing the transformative power of therapy in my own life and the lives of those around me further solidified my commitment to this path. It brings me immense joy to create a safe and supportive space for individuals to explore their emotions, gain insights, and navigate their unique journeys towards healing and self-discovery.

I have had a lifetime interest in well-being, personal growth and development. I have had many wonderful work opportunities and these opportunities led me to understand that I wanted work in the...

I have had a lifetime interest in well-being, personal growth and development. I have had many wonderful work opportunities and these opportunities led me to understand that I wanted work in the helping profession. When I began studying counselling & psychotherapy, I knew I was in the right place.

In my 20s I embarked on a journey of trying to find my Self'. Having grown up in a good upper middle class family in Germany, I could not find any life satisfaction from participating in the consumer...

In my 20s I embarked on a journey of trying to find my Self'. Having grown up in a good upper middle class family in Germany, I could not find any life satisfaction from participating in the consumer economic miracle' of post -war Germany. So I left, as many other young people also did at this time, to find enlightenment', by travelling through India, participating in meditation retreats and listening to wise Indian men, who basically told me that I was a Buddha' already, that my “suffering was bogus” and that I was truly “bliss, love and free”. Even though this sounded great, I continued to experience a discrepancy between those enlightened' statements and my experience of myself. So I started to investigate cognitively and emotionally, through therapeutic models, this discrepancy between my original Buddha nature' and my lived life experience. Then, when I turned 30, I participated in a program called the Hoffman Process and it changed my life. For the first time I really experienced myself as innately lovable' and that love was the basis of all human relatedness. I was invited by the founder Bob Hoffman to participate in the first training course conducted here in Australia. Since then, I have continued to participate in various forms of psychotherapeutic trainings to help me develop both personally and professionally.

I always thought I was a good communicator but I wasn't sure what to do with that skill. I stumbled to counselling and realised that it was about so much more than that. It was about listening,...

I always thought I was a good communicator but I wasn't sure what to do with that skill. I stumbled to counselling and realised that it was about so much more than that. It was about listening, understanding and meeting people where they are at; mentally and emotionally. I didn't really know where counselling would take me, thinking back on the last ten years its been an incredible personal and professional journey.

As a teacher I found I was far more interested in my students' wellbeing than the curriculum. I naturally found myself counseling and decided I really should be qualified to do so!

As a teacher I found I was far more interested in my students' wellbeing than the curriculum. I naturally found myself counseling and decided I really should be qualified to do so!

I find the internal worlds' of people beautiful and fascinating and so since I was a teenager I was always curious to learn and understand as much as I could about human behaviour. I just knew in my...

I find the internal worlds' of people beautiful and fascinating and so since I was a teenager I was always curious to learn and understand as much as I could about human behaviour. I just knew in my heart what I wanted to be!

I realised that some of my friends and family ask me for advise about their relationships or situations. They say that I am insightful, objective, have good listening skills and empathetic. So I...

I realised that some of my friends and family ask me for advise about their relationships or situations. They say that I am insightful, objective, have good listening skills and empathetic. So I decided to study counselling and social works so I can be empowered with knowledge and tools to effectively support my community.

Like many therapists, I've come into my profession through my own healing journey. But I've always been a space holder for people. I'm the one people turn to when they need to discuss something or...

Like many therapists, I've come into my profession through my own healing journey. But I've always been a space holder for people. I'm the one people turn to when they need to discuss something or process emotions. I'm calm, non-judgemental and a good listener. I've also been fascinated by psychology, consciousness and human potential for many years. When I was a shiatsu therapist, my favourite part was post-treatment, when clients were feeling relaxed and expansive and would start talking about what was going on for them emotionally. Over time my shiatsu treatments evolved into informal counselling sessions. At the same time, I was a volunteer for a harm reduction organisation, helping guide people through bad psychedelic experiences at festivals. When I hit a life and career crisis several years later, moving more formally into counselling seemed like a natural progression. I can honestly say that I've never regretted that decision.

For as long as I can remember, I have wondered about the meaning of life. My curiosity about why and how we slip into unstable mental health, and then remain in those unhealthy patterns for indefinite...

For as long as I can remember, I have wondered about the meaning of life. My curiosity about why and how we slip into unstable mental health, and then remain in those unhealthy patterns for indefinite periods, got me interested in the study of the various psychotherapies. I decided to pursue psychotherapy as a profession as it gradually began to point to ways in which I could understand what it meant to be human, and in relationship, and how to better understand myself in these relational dimensions.

I decided on a career as a Psychotherapist & Counsellor as a result of a very successful and fruitful period of personal therapy, following a deep depression.

I decided on a career as a Psychotherapist & Counsellor as a result of a very successful and fruitful period of personal therapy, following a deep depression.

I initially trained as an archaeologist but after having young children I discovered counselling and psychotherapy and after having some therapy which changed the direction of my life I went on to...

I initially trained as an archaeologist but after having young children I discovered counselling and psychotherapy and after having some therapy which changed the direction of my life I went on to train as psychotherapist.

I love people, their stories, struggles, triumphs and individual characters and personalities. I find nothing more rewarding than seeing my clients improve in their wellbeing.

I love people, their stories, struggles, triumphs and individual characters and personalities. I find nothing more rewarding than seeing my clients improve in their wellbeing.

I am a Registered Nurse and Midwife who does counselling and Psychotherapy. I found that as patients talked about their problems and difficulties, the only tools I had available were to reframe their...

I am a Registered Nurse and Midwife who does counselling and Psychotherapy. I found that as patients talked about their problems and difficulties, the only tools I had available were to reframe their circumstances, and offer Cognitive behaviour therapy to cope with their health or relationship problems. Fortunately I was referred by a friend to ISTDP, I then found I had the tools to talk to both an anxious mother, or an ill patient. Since 2010 I have focused on providing ISTDP therapy.

After starting a postgraduate degree in Psychology, I realised I was much more interested in the counselling conversation than the rats and stats research-based approach of formal Psychology, so I...

After starting a postgraduate degree in Psychology, I realised I was much more interested in the counselling conversation than the rats and stats research-based approach of formal Psychology, so I changed my degree to Counselling, a choice I have never regretted. My own experience of receiving effective therapeutic support also led me to train so I could give back by providing support to others. I strongly believe that a therapist should have undergone their own therapy - both so that they are aware of their own issues and limitations, and also to ensure that every therapist has a sense of the process their clients are engaged in!

I had considered moving into mental health at different times in my life, but it wasn't until 2012, when I was diagnosed with testicular cancer that I had the real 'aha' moment that made me turn my...

I had considered moving into mental health at different times in my life, but it wasn't until 2012, when I was diagnosed with testicular cancer that I had the real 'aha' moment that made me turn my life around and begin on the road to counselling. I remember that I sat down and wrote a list of every job, position or role I had had during my life - then considering each one, wrote down which parts of each role I found real fulfillment in. In pretty much every role, the thing that I enjoyed the most was working with people - helping them to discover new skills and abilities in themselves, watching as they experienced change and celebrating with them their successes. It brought me to a moment of clarity - where I suddenly realised that counselling was the obvious role for me, and that almost everything I had done up until that point was almost a precursor to my current work.

In my twenties I was a special education art teacher, awakening to the inner world's of my students and to the therapeutic elements of creative expression in whatever form: art, crafts, music, song,...

In my twenties I was a special education art teacher, awakening to the inner world's of my students and to the therapeutic elements of creative expression in whatever form: art, crafts, music, song, dance, movement, drama etc. I was very curious. As a special education junior lecturer on a postgrad in special ed'n, UofM, some of my colleagues alerted me to T.A., Transactional Analysis, Human Relations groups, encounter groups, all of which I entered into experiencing, exploring, reading about. My inner life, the inner lief of my students, the human condition in general became quite absorbing . I attended encounter group marathons, Gestalt group weekend, Reichian & Bioenergetic workshops, then stumbled across Psychodrama via my HOD. All were places in differing forms where the inner and interpersonal were emphasised and allowed, enabled and facilitated. Psychodrama was entrancing from the outset. As I developed slowly in the lecturing role, as I felt into the value of making a difference to students and as I noticed skill and sensitivity, capacity and talent emerging within me, little by little, a new pathway slid into hazy view. I led Human Relations groups for the graduate student teachers to evolve in their own unique ways. In this period most of my colleagues were US imported academics in Special Education, some of whom I became close with, PhD's, Professors. This revealed that in the US Higher Education system, opportunities that did not exist at all in Australia were available. I applied to and was accepted into three US universities, choosing the University of Oregon, Eugene, I embarked with a need to develop much more in the realms of my intellect, knowings and skilled practice, with a view to studying in the field of Counselling Psychology.

My belief that we can be healed using the creative process, based on the principles of Carl Jung, A deep curiosity in research in order to consider and practise new ways of assisting others, A...

My belief that we can be healed using the creative process, based on the principles of Carl Jung, A deep curiosity in research in order to consider and practise new ways of assisting others, A lived experience of having a family member with a psychosis.

I have found counselling essential to my wellbeing due to some difficult earlier experiences. I don't see myself as different to anybody else and I think this gives me a real sense of humility and...

I have found counselling essential to my wellbeing due to some difficult earlier experiences. I don't see myself as different to anybody else and I think this gives me a real sense of humility and compassion for people who are struggling. I am so grateful to have had some fantastic counsellors and teachers and I see myself in service to others. It is a profound privilege for me to sit with people as they navigate significant challenges.

Many things probably led me to be a therapist, but my most motivating force was wanting to find a job that fitted within my humanistic values.

Many things probably led me to be a therapist, but my most motivating force was wanting to find a job that fitted within my humanistic values.

Psychotherapy and counselling was a natural progression for me after leaving my nursing career. I volunteered as a lifeline crisis counsellor for 5 years and discovered my passion and love of enabling...

Psychotherapy and counselling was a natural progression for me after leaving my nursing career. I volunteered as a lifeline crisis counsellor for 5 years and discovered my passion and love of enabling people to change through listening and being curious moved me forward to further studies in a Diploma/Bachelor of Counselling and recently diploma in Holistic Counselling and Psychotherapy that has given me skills to experience counselling at a deeper level. Counselling has given me the opportunity to connect with people and enable them to gain insight into their life situation and find effective long lasting solutions.

I am passionate about working with people to achieve meanings in their life and helping make positive changes.

I am passionate about working with people to achieve meanings in their life and helping make positive changes.

I had a moment of passion in 2015 (at 43 years old), for the first time in my life, where I realised my calling was to support people experiencing emotional issues that were negatively impacting their...

I had a moment of passion in 2015 (at 43 years old), for the first time in my life, where I realised my calling was to support people experiencing emotional issues that were negatively impacting their behaviour and quality of life. That day, in my old corporate style I came up with a 90-day plan to change careers. I then transitioned from corporate finance to counselling via yoga teaching, wellness coaching and mindfulness meditation teaching, while getting clear on the right counselling course for me which was to have an experiential and practical basis. The psychological skills I've learnt from all of these studies, and just as importantly, my life experience of struggle, stress, and loss, have allowed me to do this work full time; be inspired by my clients, and be nourished by living true to my values and strengths.

A lifelong quest to understand the ways people develop meaning and purpose in their lives for enrichment and as a consequence discover unique ways to live beyond the material and superficial...

A lifelong quest to understand the ways people develop meaning and purpose in their lives for enrichment and as a consequence discover unique ways to live beyond the material and superficial attributes that society's systems can unwittingly enforce upon us. I am particularly passionate about infusing the physiological with our emotional wellbeing.

I have always been a curious observer of others so psychology made sense because it is a study of human experience and behaviour. Becoming a psychologist and counsellor has been a natural and...

I have always been a curious observer of others so psychology made sense because it is a study of human experience and behaviour. Becoming a psychologist and counsellor has been a natural and enjoyable progression for me.

It chose me. No, just kidding. But for the books, I was at a crossroad in my life and needed, yes needed to find a vocation that was meaningful and one that is also sense making. 10 years down the...

It chose me. No, just kidding. But for the books, I was at a crossroad in my life and needed, yes needed to find a vocation that was meaningful and one that is also sense making. 10 years down the track, I am glad. It is both meaningful and sense making.

Possibly the main thing that has caused me to choose this field of work is that I find people interesting and wonderful. The more I have learnt about people, their patterns and ways of survival, the...

Possibly the main thing that has caused me to choose this field of work is that I find people interesting and wonderful. The more I have learnt about people, their patterns and ways of survival, the more fascinated I became. The other main reason why I have chosen to be a counsellor is to understand myself. This has been an on-going and enlightening process.

I have always been interested in helping people live the lives they want to live. I don't think life needs to be lived a particular way, but I do know we're happiest when we're living it our way. My...

I have always been interested in helping people live the lives they want to live. I don't think life needs to be lived a particular way, but I do know we're happiest when we're living it our way. My ultimate joy is helping people define what is important to them, and finding ways to get to this.

Many other forms of support are only accessible if the client defines themselves through their problems, ie support for people with a diagnosed Mental Illness, Homelessness, Family Violence, etc....

Many other forms of support are only accessible if the client defines themselves through their problems, ie support for people with a diagnosed Mental Illness, Homelessness, Family Violence, etc. Counselling and Psychotherapy offers clients the opportunity to define themselves by their capacity for growth and change which I find by far a more attractive Framework.

In my work as a teacher, I was finding more and more that people (students and colleagues alike) would come to me seeking guidance on things other than curriculum. I found I really enjoyed helping...

In my work as a teacher, I was finding more and more that people (students and colleagues alike) would come to me seeking guidance on things other than curriculum. I found I really enjoyed helping people talk through their problems and they seemed to walk away feeling better. It just seemed a natural progression to do it full-time.

I was curious to learn more about myself, and through this became interested in working in this field.

I was curious to learn more about myself, and through this became interested in working in this field.