Offering a safe, non judgemental space for all minds, bodies, and identities
Hi, I’m Susie
I am a registered psychotherapist who offers inclusive, culturally responsive, trauma-informed psychotherapy. My treatment approach is holistic, compassionate, and tailored to each individual’s unique needs. I help clients to build stronger internal resources to overcome the inevitable hurdles of life and gain a deeper understanding of their thoughts, feelings, relationships, and experiences. In my sessions I facilitate a warm, non-judgemental space to support a safe exploration of thoughts, feelings, and sensations. This contributes to a deeper understanding of one’s own internal landscape which promotes healing and growth. I acknowledge the mind-body (psyche-soma) as an intricate and intelligent system. A disconnection or imbalance in this system can contribute to psychological distress and emotional dysregulation which may present in the forms of anxiety, depression, unwanted repetitive patterns, thoughts and behaviours.
As a relational psychotherapist, I consider the therapeutic relationship to be an important element of the work. This corresponds with research findings which consistently show that a strong therapeutic relationship is essential for successful therapy outcomes. For this reason, I generally work with clients on a weekly basis. My professional training and experience has been informed by diverse cultural perspectives, psychodynamic theory, attachment and other developmental theories, neuroscience, trauma research, and embodied awareness.
Professional interests and qualifications
I am a PACFA registered psychotherapist, licensed to work with clients in Australia and internationally (excluding the U.S). I completed my post graduate training at AUT University (NZ) where I obtained a Master of Psychotherapy with first class honours. I have a love for dance and movement which initially sparked my therapeutic interest in the connection of mind-body. This later developed into my thesis topic which centred around embodiment in psychotherapy. I continue to deepen my understanding on this topic through ongoing professional development and training.
I acknowledge my position as a settler on colonised land, both here on Wurundjeri and in my home country, Aotearoa New Zealand. My own life experiences have led to my interest in working with those who have marginalised identities and contributes to my commitment to inclusive treatment approaches.
Currently, I work in community mental health and in private practice in Naarm / Melbourne.