Caitlin Hennessy (She/her)Counsellor

Caitlin is a Registered Counsellor completing a Bachelor of Counselling at Griffith University. She was a finalist in the ‘Head of School of Psychology 2023’ and received the Griffith Award for Academic Excellence three years in a row. Following a series of health issues, Caitlin noticed a gap in holistic and inclusive mental health support for those experiencing chronic health issues, which led to her leaving a career in journalism and pursuing qualifications based on her lifelong interest in counselling. Caitlin has previous experience in the community non-profit sector and within the Australian school system. Throughout her time in the non-profit sector, Caitlin gained a deeper understanding of working alongside those experiencing situational distress and LGBTQIA+ specific issues. From these experiences Caitlin understood the need for Trans and LGBQIA+ safe providers and became passionate about creating these safe and inclusive spaces with equal opportunities for mental health support. Caitlin has also developed a keen interest in supporting those moving through the transitional stages of relationship issues or endings utilising attachment-based theory. Caitlin’s personal philosophy of counselling practice is a holistic approach informed by intersectionality framework, ensuring mental health is looked at within a wider view, taking into consideration the effects of oppressive systems on the individual. Through this lens, Caitlin approaches her clients with empathy and genuineness, creating a non-judgemental space for clients to explore their experiences. One of her key values as a counsellor is maintaining a safe and supportive space while acting as a facilitator to ensure a dynamic of collaboration rather than hierarchical expertise. Stemming from the belief that the client is the expert of their story, Caitlin provides a facilitation of reflection and support with the contribution of tools, to assist with further understanding and exploration of self. Using several modern and post-modern therapy modalities (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Attachment theory), Caitlin works to provide the most evidence-based care for her clients. On a personal front; Caitlin loves books, podcasts, community spaces, and exploring new cultures. You can usually find her cozied up with a fiction book and a cup of tea outside of the therapy room.