I have a particular interest in supporting individuals experiencing grief and loss, life transitions, stress, general anxiety and depression, as well as spiritual and ministry-related concerns. I draw on a range of evidence-based approaches, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). With twenty years of Christian ministry experience, I also offer Biblical Counselling as part of the process, for those who request it.

GP Counsellor Level 2 Focussed Psychological Therapies (Australian Society of Psychological Medicine)

Counselling Therapist for over 25 years;Retired Lecturer/Unit Coordinator School of Psychology & Counselling Queensland University of Technology; Retired Staff Counsellor, Clinical Supervisor & Educator Relationships Australia. Former Lecturer Australian College of Applied Psychology. Retired Lecturer (former) Australian College of Natural Medicine

Hi, my name is Samantha and I am a skilled and empathetic counsellor and relationship therapist. I prioritise compassion and creating a safe space in my sessions. My goal is to ensure that my clients feel heard, respected, and secure. I strive to create an atmosphere of approachability and understanding, supporting my clients throughout their therapeutic journey. I work with teenagers and adults who may be dealing with mental health challenges like anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, grief and loss, life adjustments, self-esteem issues, or who are just seeking additional support. My areas of specialisation include adolescent issues, adult development, and couples therapy. I desire to provide a supportive and effective therapeutic alliance, tailored to my clients’ specific needs and goals. I adopt a client-focused holistic approach, utilising a range of therapeutic techniques to assist individuals and couples in navigating their challenges. I integrate modern Cognitive Behaviour Therapies (CBT) with elements of Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, delving into unconscious patterns and beliefs, fostering self-awareness, and working with past behavioural patterns. Being Trauma-Informed, I prioritise safety during sessions, incorporating grounding techniques and breathing exercises to help clients remain present in the moment. In my couples therapy work, I heavily draw upon the Gottman Method, which involves a comprehensive assessment of the relationship and utilises research-based interventions based on the Sound Relationship House Theory. The goals of Gottman Method Couples Therapy are to address verbal conflicts, enhance intimacy, respect, and affection, eliminate barriers that hinder progress, and foster empathy and friendship within the relationship.

I have multiple years experience supporting and working with a wide range of demographics including people who live with BPD, schizoaffective disorder, GAD, BPD, ADHD, ASD, as well as isolated seniors, youth at risk, people with low incomes, people who are homeless or at risk, substance abuse, trauma survivors, and cancer patients. I have a particular niche focused and deeply invested in supporting survivors of trauma of abusive relationships, neglect, sexual assault, and significant illness. Further expanding my niche, I work heavily with people navigating various life stages from adolescence to adulthood with a deep understanding of the nuances of the varying phases. I am experienced in supporting people living with varying complexities of anxiety, perfectionism, grief and loss, and emotional regulation.