relationship and couples counsellor

I am a clinical counsellor and registered Gestalt psychotherapist who specialises in relationship issues. I am passionate about assisting individuals and couples create healthy relationships. For close to a decade I have had the pleasure of working with people who have struggled due to painful relationship patterns. Many of my clients longed to create respectful, loving and life affirming relationships for years before they began counselling with me.

It has been a privilege to witness the transformations of my clients as they break their destructive patterns to form relationships that are based on honesty, respect, and true intimacy.

becoming a counsellor

My interest in counselling grew out of my earlier career as a professional classical musician. For 15 years I performed with world-class orchestras in Australia and overseas. As a performer I often struggled with performance anxiety and nervousness and this led to an interest in the mind and the psychology of performing.

In taking my interest in psychology further, I received my post-graduate degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy from Jansen Newman Institute of Counselling and Applied Psychotherapy after 2 years of study and 50 clinical hours of client work.

Following graduation, I undertook a position as a primary counsellor and group therapist in a residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation setting. This gave me a thorough understanding and appreciation for individuals that struggle with dependence issues. I am currently a preferred service provider for South Pacific Private, Australia’s leading treatment facility.

My musical background led me to be attracted to therapy modalities that involved more than just talk therapy. I was drawn to the more experiential and creative methods and therefore specialized in Gestalt Therapy.

I received my Advanced Diploma in Gestalt Therapy from Gestalt Practitioners Training Sydney after 4 years of study and 30 clinical supervision hours.

My interest in relationship issues developed from working at the organisation, Relationships Australia for over 2 years. It was here that I encountered a wide range of relationship problems and worked with a large population of singles and couples. It was here that I received advanced training in relationship issues. I realised I had a passion for helping couples and individuals achieve their relationship dreams and aspirations.

teaching and training experience

In addition to my work in private practice, I currently facilitate therapy groups of counselling students at Jansen Newman Institute, where I train adult learners in therapeutic skills. Teaching at a tertiary level means that I am up-to-date with the latest developments in counselling and psychotherapy. I am passionate about my own personal and professional development, which includes regular clinical supervision to enhance the quality of my work. What this means is that you are getting the best possible benefits from our work together.

qualifications

• Advanced Diploma in Gestalt Therapy (GPTS)

• Graduate Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy (JNI)

• Bachelor of Music (WAPA)

• Graduate Diploma in Music (Sydney Conservatorium)

professional memberships

• Gestalt Australia & New Zealand (GANZ)

• Clinical Member, Australian Counselling Association (CMACA)

• Psychotherapists and Counsellors Federation of Australia Reg. No. 21029 (PACFA)

• Preferred Service Provider, South Pacific Private, Australia’s Leading Treatment Facility (SPP)

counselling trainings

• 2009 Evolution of Psychotherapy Conference, CA, USA

• Exploring Experiential Worlds

• Ethical Teaching of Counselling and Psychotherapy

• 2009 & 2010 International Therapists’ Leadership Virtual Conference

• Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction Training (MBSR)

• Emotional Freedom Techniques

• The Existential Sand Tray

• A Fresh Look at Gestalt Therapy

• GANZ conference attendee 2004, 2006 and 2008

• NICABM mind-body training

• Gestalt Couples Training I & II

• 2006 Australian Family Therapy Conference

• Domestic Violence Training

• Domestic Violence- Working with Couples

• Sexual Complacency in Long Term Relationships

• Narrative Practice and Couple Therapy

• Gender Euphoria- Exploring Gender Belonging

• Family Constellations Training

• Relational Psychotherapy

• Group Leadership and Facilitation Training

• South Pacific Private Professional Training Program: Module I and II

• Counselling Adult Victims of Sexual Abuse

• Couple Therapy I

• Mindfulness Psychotherapy

• Post-Separation Training

• Ankali Project Emotional Support Training for People Living with HIV/AIDS

Are you ready to move out of relationship pain?

If so, please call me today at 0412 241 410 or email me to set up a FREE, confidential 10-minute phone consultation with myself.

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