About Me
There’s something about people that draws me. Everyone is totally unique and forty years of being involved in people-oriented roles I’ve come to appreciate that while we all face many anxieties and incongruences in life, talking about it with a compassionate listener can open up possibilities you never thought existed.
I was fortunate to grow up in a migrant family with Mum, Dad and four siblings who gave me enough rope to develop resilience and common sense as well as “a song for every occasion”.
Years later, my 14 year old was having a “morning moment” where she didn’t want to face school another day. Instead of my old response of “Just get to school!”, I stopped and asked her- “What could you do differently that would change your day for the better?”. In that moment, as we talked, I discovered the power of listening… really listening. She made it to school that day and went on to change how she dealt with conflict in a new and lasting way. There is such joy in seeing people empowered to live their best life! So, after years as a Registered Nurse, I realised there was a greater desire to go deeper with others. So began the journey of becoming a Counsellor in 2005, with studies in Counselling and Family therapy completing in 2009 and Mental Health in 2015.
My nursing background has given me a great foundation for counselling. I’ve worked extensively with people living chronic health conditions every day, especially neurological conditions such of Multiple Sclerosis and Dementia. This has also involved supporting incredible family members who are Carers. I’ve been privileged to work in case management and behaviour support for people living with dementia, as well as in strategic district positions in aged care with NSW Health.
When I’m not counselling, I love attempting a gym routine, reading, learning new stuff, nurturing my spirit and being around people (yes, I really love people) -which includes my husband of 40 years, two adult children, their partners and three very special grandchildren.
Qualifications.
Advanced Diploma in Counselling and Family Therapy, Australian Institute of Family Counselling (AIFC) Canberra. ACT, 2009.
Ma Mental Health, University of Newcastle, NSW, 2015.
Graduate Certificate in Aged Care, University of Newcastle, NSW, 1997.
Certificate 4 Training and Assessment, 40116, Plenty Training, 2020.
Clinical Supervisor, Rise Up, 2022.
Level 2 Australian Counselling Association Member.
