Professional Background & Training

Qualification & Internal Family Systems (IFS) Training

I have completed a Master’s in Psychology at Monash University, however am currently operating under the title “Pyschotherapist” (See more of my training below). I have completed both Standard and Advanced Internal Family Systems (IFS) training through the IFSCA, and have practiced under the supervision of a Level 3 IFS supervisor for the past five years. Alongside this and perhaps most importantly, I continue to engage in my own consistent IFS therapy, which supports me to remain present, reflective and deeply respectful of the process I invite clients into.

Clinical Experience, consultation & trauma-informed practice

My first role in the field over 10 years ago was in a youth residential mental health setting, where I worked closely with young people navigating challenging, complex and often overwhelming emotions. This was my first real introduction to how people can feel completely overtaken by certain states, whether that was intense fear, rage, numbness or deep sadness and how, in those moments, it can feel like there’s no way out. I learned that these responses weren’t random or irrational but deeply rooted in past experiences and often ways of coping with pain that felt unbearable.

I then transitioned to clinical roles, supporting people of all ages who had been through significant trauma. I’ve worked with individuals who had been given many different mental health labels, OCD, BPD, complex trauma, eating disorders, bi-polar disorder, schizophrenia and more. While these diagnoses can sometimes be helpful in making sense of experiences, I don’t see them as defining who someone is. Instead I focus on understanding the relational and adaptive nature of distress, how it developed, how it makes sense and how we can create space for something different (My approach).

I continue to work in community mental health in a not-for-profit setting, supporting individuals and families as they navigate trauma, family conflict, parenting challenges and everyday challenges. Alongside this, I provide consultation and run training for health professionals, educators and parents, helping them understand the impact of trauma, how it affects the nervous system and brain and how to respond in ways that support regulation, safety and connection.

Working with Diverse Communities

My work has given me experience supporting neurodivergent individuals, queer and non-binary people, refugees and First Nations communities. I have deep respect for the unique strengths and challenges that come with navigating identity, culture, systemic barriers and intersectional experiences and I approach this work with cultural humility and deep listening.