About me

I am a qualified counsellor registered with the Australian Counselling Association, with over 10 years of experience working in social services. My background includes supporting people in drug and alcohol services, working with young people, individuals experiencing homelessness, and refugees and people seeking asylum.

After contracting a virus and experiencing complications from it, I became chronically ill. As a result, I lost my career and, along with it, my sense of purpose, my identity, and connections with people I once thought were friends. Consequently, I had to slowly rebuild both my health and my identity over many years. Through this experience, I came to understand the grief associated with life transitions that we didn’t choose, the loss of freedom and independence when you no longer have a stable income, and the often degrading processes involved in applying for access to public support.

I believe mental health support should be available to everyone, especially those who feel isolated due to chronic pain or energy-limiting conditions. This belief led to the creation of Chronically Heard. During my own struggles, I found it difficult to locate an affordable therapist who truly understood my experiences. This motivated me to begin studying counselling so I could help fill that gap. I offer inclusive, deeply person-centred talking therapy and aim to provide a safe and understanding space for people living with chronic illness. My approach is to meet you where you are. This includes acknowledging when things are genuinely difficult and helping you process your experiences, rather than recommending inaccessible strategies such as simply “staying positive” or “taking up a hobby.” . 

Other areas of interest include support with drug and alcohol misuse, with a focus on risk management and principles from SMART Recovery. I have additional training in this area and significant experience through my work in social services.

I also support people experiencing:

– Anxiety

– Depression

– Stress and burnout

– Life transitions (such as moving countries)

– Grief and loss, including the loss of a pet

– Issues around control and managing anger

– Boundary setting

– Self-worth and identity challenges