Hello
I’m Lou, a holistic therapist who uses person-centred counselling, somatic experiencing (SE) and mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) alongside more traditional counselling modalities.
I have a special interest in helping people who are navigating stress, anxiety, depression, burn-out, trauma and PTSD. I think holistically about wellbeing, mental health and trauma.
Therapy Sessions
In a session with me you will feel safe, respected and heard. I enjoy working with a range of individuals navigating life’s challenges who would like to open up to new and authentic ways of feeling, thinking and acting.
I offer face-to-face counselling sessions on the Central Coast in Woy Woy and on the Mid-North Coast in Tuncurry, as well as online video telehealth sessions.
If you would like a quick chat, to decide if we are the right fit, please use the button below.
Wellbeing
a whole mind and body experience
If your mental health is feeling out of balance, it’s likely your physical health is too, and vice versa.
You will find me to be clear, practical and flexible, as well as having a warm approach and a healthy sense of humour.
I am a trauma-aware and person-centred therapist, which means we work together and you always feel like you have choice and control on the journey of restoring your wellbeing and vitality, allowing you to thrive rather than just survive.
I respect all sexualities, genders and relationship styles. I offer a neurodiverse affirming environment and endeavour to practice cultural humility.
Wellbeing is a whole mind and body experience.
Understanding Trauma
Trauma means wound, shock or injury. It is the emotional (feelings), psychological (thoughts) and physiological (body sensations) residue left over from heightened stress.
Trauma comes from experiencing a disturbing event or ongoing circumstances that result in significant fear and helplessness. Traumatic experiences usually involve being powerless or having control taken away from you. Traumatic events or circumstances take us outside of our zone of tolerance, are psychologically overwhelming for us, and shatter our sense of safety. We can also experience trauma through witnessing disturbing events, hearing about them from others or caring for those with trauma.
Working Through Trauma
Trauma can trap energy in the body and can result in our nervous system getting stuck in the ready-to-act mode.
We work together to create a safe therapeutic relationship, understand the trauma response and develop skills to soothe and calm the mind and nervous system, tune in to the messages from the body and gently release the trapped energy to allow the nervous system to return to a more regulated state.
I have been able to be silent and keep to myself when needed and lay my soul bare at other times.”
‘Beautiful Lou’ – who was calming, made me feel very comfortable and always listened and was respectful to where I was at.”
At all times she is respectful, understanding, very willing to adjust.”
Lou gave me hope, a safe space to cry and talk.”
…her communication style and skills are spot on. So aware of PTSD and sensitive without being ‘airy fairy.’ “