Hello, I’m Helena
PACFA Reg. Clinical 23698
Welcome! I am a psychotherapist and counsellor based in Brisbane, offering in-person, tele-health and phone sessions. With a Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy and as a lecturer in the discipline of counselling, I bring extensive knowledge to our therapeutic journey. I am clinically registered with the Psychotherapy and Counsellors Federation of Australia and recognised on the Australian Register of Counsellors and Psychotherapists. As a lifelong learner, I continuously expand my expertise in humanistic and postmodern therapy approaches, therapeutic philosophies, and embodied practices.
In my career, I have worked as a restorative justice facilitator, trauma-informed social skills trainer, and emotional intelligence coach in both non-government organisations and the government sector. I have designed and led various groups, covering psycho-education, creative expression for personal growth, social skills programs in schools and counseling groups in culturally diverse communities. Additionally, I have lent my voice to mindfulness and meditation programs and developed psycho-educational e-Learning training programs for not-for-profit and corporate sectors. In my private practice, I provide support to adolescents, adults, couples, and parents. I am also a lecturer and tutor in the discipline of counselling.
My Approach
Drawing from my training and experience, I employ a range of therapeutic interventions tailored to your needs. These include Expressive Therapies, Contemplative Therapies, Integrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness Interventions, Trauma-Informed Practice, Narrative Therapy, Brief Solution-Focused Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy.
I have successfully supported clients facing various challenges, such as anxiety, depression, panic, perfectionism, emotion dysregulation, stress, HFA (Level 1 ASD), family conflict, self-esteem, relationship conflict, gender and sexual identity, issues within CALD communities, life transitions, parenting adolescents, and survivors of domestic and family violence and trauma. I have a particular interest in working with individuals who are seeking therapy for the first time and those who have experienced long-term intimate partner and family violence.
A little history about me
During my childhood and adolescence, I had the opportunity to perform professionally in theatres, street shows, television, and radio plays. You may come across some content about my ventures on Australian television in the ’80s. It was my passion for theatre, especially improvisation, that ignited my creativity, curiosity, and fascination with the human experience and condition. Theatre taught me the value of collaboration, embracing differences, exploring diverse perspectives, and cultivating heartful communication. Therapy became a natural vocation for me, allowing me to empower and celebrate personal growth in others, which brings me immense joy. Even today, my therapeutic groups incorporate classic drama games and warmups because I believe spontaneity, creativity, and laughter are vital elements in the therapeutic process.
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me. If you are ready to embark on a transformative journey, I invite you to get in touch. Let’s connect and create a therapeutic space that nurtures your growth and well-being.