Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, PhD in Cultural Studies and Creative Practice, Graduate Certificate in Gestalt, Postgraduate Diploma of Education.
Sophia’s approach is warm and collaborative, and she is committed to understanding each person’s unique experience. Combining deep listening with explorative dialogue, experiential exercises and practical strategies, she supports you to grow in self-awareness, address emotional pain and gain clarity about what gives you joy and meaning.
A childhood spent in rural Aotearoa (NZ) on two collectivist communities has given Sophia a deep understanding of how systems, structures, societal expectations and our relationship with environment influence how we feel. Sophia has many years’ experience working with diverse communities including LGBTQI +, Rainbow Mob, and refugee background Australians. Creative expression is a core part of Sophia’s life, and she welcomes exploration of dreams, poetry and drawings during sessions.
Sophia’s work as a therapist is enriched by 25 years in the community sector in mental health, capacity building and training, with a focus on addressing racism and gendered inequity. She has also worked in secondary schools and as a tertiary educator. A dog fan, she is companion to a pair of brindle whippets.
Sophia’s areas of expertise include:
- Relationship and communication
- Finding meaning and purpose in life
- Childhood neglect
- Gender and sexual identity
- Grief and loss
- Creative/artistic journeys
- Intergenerational trauma
- Anxiety and depression
Sophia’s treatment modalities are:
- Gestalt
- Psychodrama
- Psychodynamic Theory
- Attachment Theory
- Interpersonal Therapy (ITP)
- Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT)
- Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Available:
- Saturday’s – Bellfield
Client groups:
- Individuals
- Ages 15+