Strength-Based Counselling in Australian Capital Territory

Photo of Donna Marie Smythe, MA, Counsellor
Donna Marie Smythe
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mawson, ACT 2607
I use a variety of therapeutic approaches, such as Person-centred, Solution Focused, Strength-based, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Emotion-focused Therapy, amongst others.
Welcome! My name is Donna. I am a person centred therapist who is passionate about helping others, particularly those suffering from Trauma. My training comes from world leaders in the field and is ongoing. I have extensive experience working with youth and across diverse cultures. Also, with the LGBTQI+ community. My mission is to assist you on a deeper level to be empowered, find hope, and strengthen your belief in self to improve wellbeing.
I use a variety of therapeutic approaches, such as Person-centred, Solution Focused, Strength-based, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Emotion-focused Therapy, amongst others.
Welcome! My name is Donna. I am a person centred therapist who is passionate about helping others, particularly those suffering from Trauma. My training comes from world leaders in the field and is ongoing. I have extensive experience working with youth and across diverse cultures. Also, with the LGBTQI+ community. My mission is to assist you on a deeper level to be empowered, find hope, and strengthen your belief in self to improve wellbeing.
(02) 5926 2994 View (02) 5926 2994
Photo of Sally Cox - The Therapeutic Space, MA, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Therapeutic Space
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AASW
Verified Verified
Dunlop, ACT 2615
Working across the lifespan as a Family therapist, Sally specialises in working with children and adolescents particularly in areas of mental health, family separation, anxiety and depression. Working as a strength based clinical therapist Sally works with the client to establish strengths, to build a relationship of trust and safety. Sally has 17 years experience working in the community sector in areas of family violence, sexual abuse, family separation, foster care, trauma and mental health.
Working across the lifespan as a Family therapist, Sally specialises in working with children and adolescents particularly in areas of mental health, family separation, anxiety and depression. Working as a strength based clinical therapist Sally works with the client to establish strengths, to build a relationship of trust and safety. Sally has 17 years experience working in the community sector in areas of family violence, sexual abuse, family separation, foster care, trauma and mental health.
(02) 5118 9470 View (02) 5118 9470
Photo of Rabia Muqtadir, PhD, PACFA, Counsellor
Rabia Muqtadir
Counsellor, PhD, PACFA
Verified Verified
Florey, ACT 2615  (Online Only)
Life can offer challenges that can simply be overwhelming. It is in those times that many of us feel confused/lost or simply unheard in our relationships and struggle to communicate with our loved ones. For some of us trauma from our past is captivating enough to feel stuck and hold us back to fully become who we are suppose to be or experience of loss and grief impact our well-being and challenge our mental health. It could be anxiety and depression that keep you captive. If you are experiencing any of this or other life challenges I would encourage you to reach out and take a step towards well-being and meaning full life.
Life can offer challenges that can simply be overwhelming. It is in those times that many of us feel confused/lost or simply unheard in our relationships and struggle to communicate with our loved ones. For some of us trauma from our past is captivating enough to feel stuck and hold us back to fully become who we are suppose to be or experience of loss and grief impact our well-being and challenge our mental health. It could be anxiety and depression that keep you captive. If you are experiencing any of this or other life challenges I would encourage you to reach out and take a step towards well-being and meaning full life.
(02) 5133 8847 View (02) 5133 8847
Photo of Penni Dickson, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Penni Dickson
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Deakin, ACT 2600
I have a person-centered approach utilising Narrative Therapy, Art Therapy, CBT, compassion-focused therapy, strength-based approach.
I am an experienced Counsellor and Psychotherapist working with youth, adolescents, adults, and couples. Drawing from a range of modalities I can work with you on a range of mental health issues including trauma work, grief, depression, and anxiety. I also work with people sorting through life's storms as couples or individuals, dealing with relationship issues, interpersonal communication, recovering from bullying or trauma, or coping with major life changes.
I have a person-centered approach utilising Narrative Therapy, Art Therapy, CBT, compassion-focused therapy, strength-based approach.
I am an experienced Counsellor and Psychotherapist working with youth, adolescents, adults, and couples. Drawing from a range of modalities I can work with you on a range of mental health issues including trauma work, grief, depression, and anxiety. I also work with people sorting through life's storms as couples or individuals, dealing with relationship issues, interpersonal communication, recovering from bullying or trauma, or coping with major life changes.
(02) 5941 6274 View (02) 5941 6274
Photo of Eryn Long, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Eryn Long
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Coombs, ACT 2611  (Online Only)
Cognitive behavioural therapy, solution-focused therapy, strength-based therapy, and mindfulness techniques are just a few of the modalities utilised.
I provide support to a diverse range of individuals who each face their own specific circumstances and challenges: Defence personnel and veterans who have dedicated their lives to serving the country, first responders who courageously confront emergencies on a daily basis, family members of defence and first responder personnel who often carry the emotional weight of their loved ones' experiences, executives and business owners managing the pressures of leadership, and public servants dedicating their efforts to the community.
Cognitive behavioural therapy, solution-focused therapy, strength-based therapy, and mindfulness techniques are just a few of the modalities utilised.
I provide support to a diverse range of individuals who each face their own specific circumstances and challenges: Defence personnel and veterans who have dedicated their lives to serving the country, first responders who courageously confront emergencies on a daily basis, family members of defence and first responder personnel who often carry the emotional weight of their loved ones' experiences, executives and business owners managing the pressures of leadership, and public servants dedicating their efforts to the community.
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Photo of Diane Helen Marie Koopman - DHM Counselling , MC, ACA-L2, Counsellor
DHM Counselling
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canberra, ACT 2600  (Online Only)
Accessible and affordable online Counselling that is culturally sensitive, intersectional and trauma informed. All people welcome as I have experience in primary healthcare, domestic violence, workplace injury management, and mentoring kids and their families to navigate everyday challenges and big feelings. I aim to provide a safe, transparent and nurturing space that builds trust and rapport in the therapeutic relationship. I am a strength-based therapist encouraging clients to identify their own skills and resources, to make informed decisions and set achievable goals. I offer pre-diagnosis Assessments for various presentations.
Accessible and affordable online Counselling that is culturally sensitive, intersectional and trauma informed. All people welcome as I have experience in primary healthcare, domestic violence, workplace injury management, and mentoring kids and their families to navigate everyday challenges and big feelings. I aim to provide a safe, transparent and nurturing space that builds trust and rapport in the therapeutic relationship. I am a strength-based therapist encouraging clients to identify their own skills and resources, to make informed decisions and set achievable goals. I offer pre-diagnosis Assessments for various presentations.
(02) 8403 1598 View (02) 8403 1598
Photo of Catriona Ward, MC, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Catriona Ward
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canberra, ACT 2600
Welcome to Oak Counselling! As a qualified counsellor, my approach is rooted in person-centred and strength-based principles. This means I believe that you are the expert of your own life and that you have the potential to change and grow. We’ll work together to set and achieve your goals. My role is to support you by creating a genuine and safe environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment. I’m here to help you discover your strengths and find pathways that resonate with you. Whether you’re facing challenges or simply looking to grow, I’m committed to walking alongside you on this journey.
Welcome to Oak Counselling! As a qualified counsellor, my approach is rooted in person-centred and strength-based principles. This means I believe that you are the expert of your own life and that you have the potential to change and grow. We’ll work together to set and achieve your goals. My role is to support you by creating a genuine and safe environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment. I’m here to help you discover your strengths and find pathways that resonate with you. Whether you’re facing challenges or simply looking to grow, I’m committed to walking alongside you on this journey.
(08) 6490 9341 View (08) 6490 9341
Photo of Jackie Holmes, ACA-L3, Counsellor
Jackie Holmes
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
Canberra, ACT 2600  (Online Only)
I have a warm, strength-based approach to counselling, and strive to help people feel safe and supported.
Many people I work with suffer from various forms of anxiety, including obsessive thoughts, social anxiety, as well as issues with body image, relationships, and life transitions. Generally, those I work with are feeling “stuck” and are at a point where they long for or are desperate for relief. I help people regain a deeper connection with themselves and others and support them in moving forward to experience more peace and contentment in their life. I welcome neuro-diversity, and individuals who feel they navigate life a bit differently than others!
I have a warm, strength-based approach to counselling, and strive to help people feel safe and supported.
Many people I work with suffer from various forms of anxiety, including obsessive thoughts, social anxiety, as well as issues with body image, relationships, and life transitions. Generally, those I work with are feeling “stuck” and are at a point where they long for or are desperate for relief. I help people regain a deeper connection with themselves and others and support them in moving forward to experience more peace and contentment in their life. I welcome neuro-diversity, and individuals who feel they navigate life a bit differently than others!
(08) 7079 4603 View (08) 7079 4603
Photo of Hong (Helen) Qin - Helen Qin Counselling (English, Mandarin), PACFA, Psychotherapist
Helen Qin Counselling (English, Mandarin)
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Canberra, ACT 2600
My clinical counselling strategies include CBT, ACT, Solution-focused, Mindfulness, Strength-based, Interpersonal psychotherapy, Trauma-informed approach as well as Gottman Method for couple counselling/therapy and systemic family approach.
Hello, I am an registered Medicare provider, highly professional and compassionate bilingual psychotherapist/counsellor (English, Mandarin) and Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with more than 10 years of clinical experience. I am also a professionally trained and qualified relationship/marriage counsellor (Dr. John Gottman method of couple counselling level 3 trained).
My clinical counselling strategies include CBT, ACT, Solution-focused, Mindfulness, Strength-based, Interpersonal psychotherapy, Trauma-informed approach as well as Gottman Method for couple counselling/therapy and systemic family approach.
Hello, I am an registered Medicare provider, highly professional and compassionate bilingual psychotherapist/counsellor (English, Mandarin) and Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with more than 10 years of clinical experience. I am also a professionally trained and qualified relationship/marriage counsellor (Dr. John Gottman method of couple counselling level 3 trained).
(02) 9098 5155 View (02) 9098 5155
Photo of Ahu Kocak, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Ahu Kocak
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Deakin, ACT 2600
I have worked with resistant and complex presentations throughout most of my career and have a huge passion for enabling recovery even in the most challenging cases. I can provide expert assessments for several areas of clinical and legal practice, and have developed several group programs to address behaviours that pose risks to the community.
I have worked with resistant and complex presentations throughout most of my career and have a huge passion for enabling recovery even in the most challenging cases. I can provide expert assessments for several areas of clinical and legal practice, and have developed several group programs to address behaviours that pose risks to the community.
(02) 5943 9942 View (02) 5943 9942
Photo of Jessica Minchin, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Minchin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Belconnen, ACT 2617
Jessica has extensive postgraduate training and experience in the field of mental health and family violence and has worked as a mental health professional for over 12 years with people across the lifespan in a variety of settings. This includes forensic mental health, child and adolescent mental health, specialist youth outreach mental health “early psychosis”, women’s health and private practice.
Jessica has extensive postgraduate training and experience in the field of mental health and family violence and has worked as a mental health professional for over 12 years with people across the lifespan in a variety of settings. This includes forensic mental health, child and adolescent mental health, specialist youth outreach mental health “early psychosis”, women’s health and private practice.
(02) 5135 5535 View (02) 5135 5535
Photo of Dr Hilary Anne Berthon - Corella Counselling, PACFA, Counsellor
Corella Counselling
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Florey, ACT 2615
It is your ability to integrate change, to identify valued ways of living and to build connection that is the key to living well as you grow older. You may be coping with life transitions or change, managing a chronic illness or disability, or caring for someone. You may be experiencing loss, or dealing with stress, anxiety or depression.
It is your ability to integrate change, to identify valued ways of living and to build connection that is the key to living well as you grow older. You may be coping with life transitions or change, managing a chronic illness or disability, or caring for someone. You may be experiencing loss, or dealing with stress, anxiety or depression.
(02) 5135 1318 View (02) 5135 1318
Photo of Lyndsey Houghton - Umbrella Counselling , ACA-L2, Counsellor
Umbrella Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Deakin, ACT 2600
I am open and inclusive and have twenty years of working with teenagers and their families behind me. I work with a person centred approach and seek to help you gain insight into your own behaviours and support you to make meaningful changes in your life as well as helping to repair any fractured relationships in families.
I am open and inclusive and have twenty years of working with teenagers and their families behind me. I work with a person centred approach and seek to help you gain insight into your own behaviours and support you to make meaningful changes in your life as well as helping to repair any fractured relationships in families.
(02) 5941 6680 View (02) 5941 6680
Photo of Andrew Chan, MSc, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Andrew Chan
Counsellor, MSc, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Phillip, ACT 2606
Living life can be fulfilling, exciting and enriching. It is not without disappointments, hurts and struggles that bring us to a place of isolation, regret, grief or anxiety. Yet greater adversity can bring greater triumphs. With self-realisation, resolve and empowerment, your story will not have to speak of defeat. It would be an honour to have the opportunity to journey with you as a licensed counselor (M Couns., ACA) with 10 years of experience working with people of all ages and backgrounds in different settings. I have a passion to see everyone lead successful and meaningful lives, building healthy relationships and families.
Living life can be fulfilling, exciting and enriching. It is not without disappointments, hurts and struggles that bring us to a place of isolation, regret, grief or anxiety. Yet greater adversity can bring greater triumphs. With self-realisation, resolve and empowerment, your story will not have to speak of defeat. It would be an honour to have the opportunity to journey with you as a licensed counselor (M Couns., ACA) with 10 years of experience working with people of all ages and backgrounds in different settings. I have a passion to see everyone lead successful and meaningful lives, building healthy relationships and families.
0414 657 118 View 0414 657 118
Photo of Jon Nielsen - Jon Nielsen Counselling Canberra, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Jon Nielsen Counselling Canberra
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phillip, ACT 2606
I often work with people living with anxiety, depression, and loneliness. Together we can focus on techniques that reduce negative impacts, lessen your distress and enhance your ability to take control of your own life. There is hope for a happier, more connected tomorrow.
I often work with people living with anxiety, depression, and loneliness. Together we can focus on techniques that reduce negative impacts, lessen your distress and enhance your ability to take control of your own life. There is hope for a happier, more connected tomorrow.
(02) 5943 7397 View (02) 5943 7397
Photo of Fiona Gray - Creating Connections Counselling, MA, PACFA, Counsellor
Creating Connections Counselling
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Narrabundah, ACT 2604
Do you need someone to talk to? Are you doubting your self-worth & self-esteem or have difficulties with anxiety & depression? Would you like to improve your communication with your partner or a member of your family? Have you experienced a betrayal or has someone in the relationship had difficulties with addiction or behavioural difficulties? Have you been affected by previous traumatic experiences? I provide a trauma-informed approach, trained in EMDR & guided imagery. My goal is to ensure you are heard and understood in every session. I am here to work with you to facilitate a safe space to explore your inner needs.
Do you need someone to talk to? Are you doubting your self-worth & self-esteem or have difficulties with anxiety & depression? Would you like to improve your communication with your partner or a member of your family? Have you experienced a betrayal or has someone in the relationship had difficulties with addiction or behavioural difficulties? Have you been affected by previous traumatic experiences? I provide a trauma-informed approach, trained in EMDR & guided imagery. My goal is to ensure you are heard and understood in every session. I am here to work with you to facilitate a safe space to explore your inner needs.
(02) 5104 9730 View (02) 5104 9730
Photo of Raji Samprathi, PACFA, Counsellor
Raji Samprathi
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Kaleen, ACT 2617
Life’s challenges can often feel overwhelming. Anxiety, burnout, stress, or low self-esteem or depression might make you feel disconnected, trapped, or uncertain about the future. You may feel as though you’re stuck in unhelpful cycles, seeking relief yet unsure where to turn. Together, we can work through these obstacles, guiding you toward a place of balance, resilience, and fulfillment. In our sessions, you’ll find a safe, compassionate space to explore your experiences at a pace that feels right for you. My goal is to help you find a way to help you move forward with confidence and hope.
Life’s challenges can often feel overwhelming. Anxiety, burnout, stress, or low self-esteem or depression might make you feel disconnected, trapped, or uncertain about the future. You may feel as though you’re stuck in unhelpful cycles, seeking relief yet unsure where to turn. Together, we can work through these obstacles, guiding you toward a place of balance, resilience, and fulfillment. In our sessions, you’ll find a safe, compassionate space to explore your experiences at a pace that feels right for you. My goal is to help you find a way to help you move forward with confidence and hope.
(02) 5129 0804 View (02) 5129 0804
Photo of Krystal Carter - Krystal @ Wellbeings Therapy & Assessment Services, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Krystal @ Wellbeings Therapy & Assessment Services
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Belconnen, ACT 2617
I am an experienced psychologist and social worker aiming to provide therapy and assessment to help identify and address a variety of concerns you may have - either for yourself or your child. I have particular experience in trauma (incl. sexual assault and childhood sexual abuse), parenting issues, cancer care, bereavement, grief and loss (incl. perinatal loss), perinatal mental health, sleep issues, adjustment to illness, ADHD, dementia, depression, stress management, anxiety and a range of other mental health issues.
I am an experienced psychologist and social worker aiming to provide therapy and assessment to help identify and address a variety of concerns you may have - either for yourself or your child. I have particular experience in trauma (incl. sexual assault and childhood sexual abuse), parenting issues, cancer care, bereavement, grief and loss (incl. perinatal loss), perinatal mental health, sleep issues, adjustment to illness, ADHD, dementia, depression, stress management, anxiety and a range of other mental health issues.
(02) 5120 0319 View (02) 5120 0319
Photo of Melisa Campisi, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Melisa Campisi
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Canberra, ACT 2601
Offering weekend in person and weekday telehealth appointments. I understand the courage it takes to reach out for support and I aim to create a warm and compassionate space where people feel safe and comfortable being themselves. I enjoy working collaboratively with people on issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, relationship issues, self-esteem and assertiveness. Life throws up all sorts of challenges and I look forward to helping you navigate them and realise your own strengths and potential.
Offering weekend in person and weekday telehealth appointments. I understand the courage it takes to reach out for support and I aim to create a warm and compassionate space where people feel safe and comfortable being themselves. I enjoy working collaboratively with people on issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, relationship issues, self-esteem and assertiveness. Life throws up all sorts of challenges and I look forward to helping you navigate them and realise your own strengths and potential.
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Photo of Anna Brett - Anna - Text Counselling Online, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Anna - Text Counselling Online
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holt, ACT 2615  (Online Only)
Not everyone enjoys speaking out loud. Would you like to communicate through text with? Maybe you just like having the space to think as you type out your response, or maybe you want to talk about something difficult, and you feel like it would be easier through text.
Not everyone enjoys speaking out loud. Would you like to communicate through text with? Maybe you just like having the space to think as you type out your response, or maybe you want to talk about something difficult, and you feel like it would be easier through text.
0493 798 111 View 0493 798 111

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Strength-Based Counsellors

How does strength-based therapy work?

During strength-based therapy sessions, the therapist will ask about an individual’s experiences of stress, pain, or trauma with the goal of orienting the client to view themselves as a survivor rather than a victim, and focusing on their strengths rather than on their weaknesses. In framing a client’s personal narrative along these lines, the therapist and client work together to identify existing skills that can be harnessed.

Is strength-based therapy evidence-based?

Strength-based therapy is an evidence-based treatment that has been studied extensively and shown to be effective across domains. The treatment has been found to be particularly effective in helping individuals who are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health concerns. Strength-based therapy has been used by therapists to help clients for more than 60 years.

How long does strength-based therapy last?

There’s no precise timeline for strength-based therapy. The duration of treatment depends on the individual’s specific needs and goals and the severity of their concerns. Some individuals may find they achieve their therapeutic goals quickly, while others might benefit from ongoing support and guidance in order to continue progressing.

How effective is strength-based therapy?

Clinical research and decades of practice have shown strength-based therapy to be an effective treatment to improve mental health and well-being for many conditions. The treatment can engender a sense of connection and collaboration between the therapist and the individual, fostering a positive therapeutic relationship. For individuals with narcissistic tendencies, strength-based therapy may be less effective, as the focus on the individual’s strengths may undermine the work needed to honestly assess the challenges the individual faces.