Gentle Strength Counselling
Compassionate, respectful and authentic support
Learn more about me
Trusted Counsellor
Hi my name is Amy and I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, and experienced Counsellor. I hold a Master of Social Work degree and I have over 20 years experience working in the human services industry. Some of my career highlights have been working as a high school Counsellor, a Counsellor for CanTeen ( young people living with cancer) and being a volunteer in Vietnam for the Christina Noble Children's Foundation. I offer a person centred, humanistic approach that allows people to feel seen and heard, and I utilise a range of therapies that include but are not limited to Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution Focussed Therapy and Narrative Therapy. If you are willing I will meet you where you are at, build a purposeful relationship with you and use empathy, compassion and gentle strength to support you. I provide counselling for children (5 and older), adolescents, adults, couples and families. I have completed the level 1 Gottman Couples Therapy training and I am a ‘Circle of Security’ parenting facilitator. If this sounds like something you are looking for please get in touch today to see what I can do for you.
Face to face and online
A safe space.
I work out of an office space in Swansea, Newcastle NSW. If you are unable to access me face to face you can also communicate with me over the phone or online. If you choose online I will speak to you via an easy-to-use, secure site.
Adolescent counselling
You matter
Adolescents can be a challenging and confusing time, and you may need support to navigate the ups and downs of life. Such as relationships, family, school, low self esteem, isolation, mental health, and grief and loss. I value building meaningful relationships and take time to really understand your world and what you need to feel safe, to belong, and to believe in yourself and your future.
Individual counselling for adults
You are worthy
Part of the human condition is to experience struggle but no one should have to suffer in silence or alone. I can offer you support throughout life’s ebbs and flows, to help you process, heal and accept. If you are ready and willing we will work on what you need, and build a positive relationship that empowers you.
Mothers support group and individual counselling for mothers
You are not alone
Motherhood can be a wonderful and miraculous experience, and at the same time be exhausting, overwhelming and lonely. These feelings are normal but for some women they don’t always have a safe or supportive place to share their truth. I provide Individual counselling offering empathy and genuine support during one of life’s most complex and contradictory times. My support groups are that space for mothers who want to connect with other mothers, and who want to feel seen and heard without judgment. More details about my mothers groups below.
Children’s counselling
You deserve to be celebrated
My work with children is playful, respectful and holistic. I engage children creatively and compassionately, giving them time and space to be themselves and express what’s going on for them. They may be struggling with big emotions, grief and loss, anxiety, poor self worth, friendships, family challenges, or just finding life hard. I support children and care givers/parents to communicate and connect more effectively.
Mother’s Support Groups
Reach out if you are interested in joining the next group
This 6 x week mother’s support group is for mothers with babies and children from 0-2 who are looking for genuine connection and support. My personal experience of the overwhelm, anxiety and isolation of motherhood, along with my professional social work skill set and knowledge has led me to develop this therapeutic program. The group offers you (mothers) the chance to express and heal from your mothering experience, as well as regain a sense of self, helping to nourish, guide and inspire you on your mothering journey. It’s an early intervention program that aims to prevent mothers from reaching burn out and helps to lesson the strain on a mothers mental health. Every week will have a different theme/topic that is relevant and that is centred around the groups needs. I facilitate a welcoming environment that encourages compassion and togetherness, helping to create a peer support network that empowers women. This is a safe space for you (mothers) to come weekly for 2 x hours over 6 x weeks to honour your worth and wellbeing (and babies welcome). It’s an opportunity to connect with like minded women, put yourself first and practice self compassion.
If for some reason the age of your child or other factors are a barrier to you accessing this group please contact me today to see what I can do for you.
“Nothing is so strong as gentleness. Nothing is so gentle as real strength”. Ralph W. Sockman
My practice is located at 172 - 178 Pacific Highway Swansea 2281, NSW Australia. Upstairs in the Swansea Central building. Professional qualifications: Master of Social Work, Diploma of Education, Bachelor of Social Science, Cert IV T&A, Diploma of Community Services. Accredited Mental Health Social Worker (AASW). If you have a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP you can access the Medicare rebate. Provider No : 5880793J
0451 346 003
