Mr Tod Stokes Counsellor

Founder & Managing Director – Legacy Counselling and Consultancy Academic Co-Lead, First Nations Education & Engagement – University of Adelaide Based in Adelaide, South Australia, Tod Stokes is the Founder and Managing Director of Legacy Counselling and Consultancy, offering culturally grounded counselling and consultancy services to clients locally and across Australia. Tod provides both in-person and online sessions, ensuring accessibility, flexibility, and safety for all who seek support. Qualifications & Professional Background Tod holds a Diploma of Mental Health and a Diploma of Narrative Therapy, and is commencing a Master of Counselling. His professional development includes training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Psychological First Aid, and Trauma-Informed Practice. A highly experienced Indigenous Healing Practitioner, Tod has spent over 15 years working in the domestic and family violence sector, specialising in behaviour change programs for men. His outstanding contributions to the field were recognised with the Premier’s Heide Taylor Award for excellence in family violence prevention. Alongside his clinical practice, Tod serves as Academic Co-Lead, First Nations Education and Engagement at the University of Adelaide’s School of Psychology, where he lectures and helps embed Indigenous knowledge, values, and perspectives into psychology and counselling education. Counselling Approach Tod provides a safe, respectful, and empathetic space where clients feel genuinely heard and supported. His client-centred approach is collaborative and adaptable, combining evidence-based methods such as: Narrative Therapy Cognitive-Behavioural Strategies Mindfulness Practices Solution-Focused Therapy Each session is tailored to the client’s goals and lived experiences, supporting growth, healing, and resilience while maintaining the highest standards of confidentiality and professionalism. Areas of Focus Tod works with adults and young people across a range of issues, including: Stress, anxiety, and depression Relationship and family challenges Grief and loss Life transitions and personal growth Self-esteem and identity concerns His practice is inclusive, culturally sensitive, and responsive to the diverse experiences of every client. Cultural Perspective As a proud Torres Strait Islander man, Tod brings a deeply rooted cultural understanding to his work. His connection to Culture, Country, and Community informs every aspect of his practice, guiding clients to explore healing and wellbeing through both modern and traditional frameworks. Tod’s approach reflects the strength, wisdom, and resilience found within Indigenous ways of knowing and being, while remaining open and inclusive to clients from all cultural and spiritual backgrounds. What Clients Can Expect When working with Tod, clients can expect: A collaborative and supportive therapeutic relationship Practical tools and strategies for positive change Cultural safety and respect for individual identity Flexible options for online or face-to-face sessions Tod is passionate about helping individuals build resilience, rediscover their strengths, and move toward clarity, healing, and empowerment.