HELLO

About Me

Hello, I’m Birgit Patenall, a professional counsellor and registered member of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA).

HOW I CAN HELP YOU

We all meet personal challenges at various times of our lives, and sometimes we need help to guide us through them.

I have a special interest in women in midlife who are facing challenges due to major life transitions, such as choosing or changing a career, divorce or separation, empty nest, grief & loss, caring for elderly parents, effects of menopause, retirement, or generally feeling a lack of direction in life.

My services include one-on-one counselling for adults, group counselling for women going through divorce or separation, and a support group for women who have migrated to Australia and are struggling with the difficulties of living apart from family.

My counselling experience covers a range of therapies. At all times, I work in accordance with the ethical guidelines of the ACA and attend the required, regular Clinical Supervision and Professional Development courses and programs.

Therapy types:

• Gestalt Psychotherapy

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

• Person-Centred Therapy

• Solution-focused brief therapy

• Group Counselling

There are several ways I work with my clients, and together we can work out the best way for you, whether it is one-on-one in-person sessions, online or telephone counselling, or in a counselling or support group. Whichever option we choose to work together, my approach is the same - it will be a holistic, non-judgemental, patient and supportive experience.

I take confidentiality and privacy very seriously, so you can be always assured of complete discretion.

Qualifications, Training and Experience

• Certified Gestalt Psychotherapist

• Bachelor in Counselling

• Group therapy facilitation

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

• Person Centred Therapy

• Life Coaching certificate

• Mental Health First Aid training

• Lifeline telephone crisis supporter

• Youth mentor at The Smith Family