Utilizing cognitive behaviour therapy along with mindfulness-based techniques, Peter provides a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental atmosphere where clients can explore their current concerns and discover solutions that work for them.
Medicare rebates, and some bulk billing available.
Areas of focus include:
Anxiety
Anxiety is the body’s natural way of telling us that we are in danger. We tend to fear anxiety itself because it can be uncomfortable and even frightening, but it is a normal part of the human experience. When anxiety shows up too often, and takes away our ability to manage our emotions and other things in our lives, that’s when it becomes a problem and it may be time to seek help. When we change our relationship with anxiety, we can begin to live healthy, peaceful lives.
Self-esteem
Most of us at one point or another have struggled with negative thoughts about ourselves, or felt like we didn’t measure up. But what is it we measure ourselves against? Our personal view of ourselves is shaped by life experiences and popular culture, including media. We are conditioned to believe that beauty looks a certain way, and that we must participate, act and enjoy certain things to be considered ‘normal’. Low self-esteem can keep you from pursuing your dreams and finding your potential, interrupting your life in a variety of ways. But with the right support and tools, and a commitment to growth, people who struggle with low self-esteem can learn to value themselves in ways they never thought possible.
Relationship issues
Relationships can be the most rewarding of life experiences, and also some of the most challenging. They are wonderful and life-giving to the people in them, making it all the more difficult when a relationship goes bad. Common problems that damage relationship can be conflict, disconnection, anger, betrayal, loss and resentment. Through counselling we can work together to find solutions to the unique challenges so that your relationships can thrive again. We help people identify the roadblocks that prevent the relationship from thriving and discover strategies for reconnection and growth so that each person can have the relationship they want.
Grief and loss
Grief can be a lonely and isolating experience, yet we all experience it as it is a natural part of the human experience. Although grief and loss is unique to each person, we all need connection and compassion through our bereavement. It is not a singular event, it is a lifelong process that can be a celebration of the relationships that was precious to you. Or it is a process of finding peace in the face of unresolved issues. Working through this difficult process with a counsellor can help you make sense out of what you may be feeling and what you want your life to look like as you move forward. It’s never about ‘moving on’ but about moving forward.
Motivation
Motivation is the driving force that determines much of our behaviour. Our desires can motivate us to act in positive and negative ways. In counselling motivation is used to encourage people to make positive behavioural changes in their lives. Regardless of outside guidance and direction, the most powerful place to tap into motivation is inside yourself.
Sexuality and identity
Our individual identities are made up of many things – our intelligence, family relationships, work, what we do for fun, etc. At the core of our identity is our relationship with our gender, sexuality and sexual orientation. An identity that deviates from the ‘cultural norm’ can be challenging as we live in a homophobic and transphobic society. What is a private part of ourselves (gender and sexual orientation) becomes public when it does not fit the norm. Counselling can assist with the exploration of confusion, the coming out process, and dealing with the effects of phobia and discrimination, as well as assist with family dynamics and provide family support.