Each month we spotlight an ACA member in the ACA Monthly Bulletin, our monthly newsletter. The Member Spotlight is designed to showcase the work of our members to you! We hope their stories inspire or spark interest. Let’s share our experiences within our counselling community.
What motivated you to pursue a career in counselling?
As an academic deeply engaged in education, leadership, and wellbeing research, I’ve always been passionate about human development—both intellectually and emotionally. My transition into counselling was driven by a desire to move beyond theoretical understanding and into direct, compassionate practice. I’ve seen firsthand, particularly in my work with students and diverse communities, how unresolved emotional stress and lack of culturally appropriate support can impact wellbeing and life outcomes. Counselling allows me to complement my academic work with grounded, one-on-one support that empowers individuals to heal, grow, and thrive.
What specific areas do you primarily work within?
A strong focus of my work is supporting culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) individuals, mature-age students, international students, and those experiencing complex cross-cultural transitions. I engage with people facing a broad range of challenges, including academic performance pressure, low motivation, emotional distress, anxiety, stress, identity concerns, time management difficulties, and procrastination. I also support individuals experiencing burnout or emotional fatigue, particularly in academic or high-responsibility professional settings. My approach blends mindfulness and solution-focused strategies, thoughtfully adapted to the unique personal and cultural context of each individual I work with. In educational settings, I also draw on techniques such as motivational interviewing, psychoeducation, and strengths-based support to help learners manage stress, overcome procrastination, stay engaged, and build confidence.
Can you share a recent success or achievement in your counselling work that you're proud of?
One recent example involved supporting a mature-age student who was experiencing intense academic pressure and self-doubt after returning to study in her 40s. She felt overwhelmed by digital learning platforms, struggled with time management, and questioned her capabilities. Through regular meetings, we worked on reframing negative self-talk, building self-regulation strategies, and reconnecting with her long-term goals. Over time, she became more confident in her learning, re-engaged with her coursework, and completed her subject successfully. Seeing her reclaim her sense of purpose and belief in herself was deeply rewarding.
What is the most rewarding aspect of being a counsellor for you?
For me, the most rewarding aspect is creating a supportive and non-judgmental space where students, especially those from diverse or marginalised backgrounds, feel genuinely seen and heard. In the academic setting, many students carry hidden pressures, self-doubt, or cultural expectations that impact their wellbeing and performance. Witnessing them rediscover their strengths, reframe challenges, and move forward with renewed confidence is incredibly meaningful and reaffirms the value of this work.
How do you contribute to the betterment of the profession and your community?
I serve as a Senior Lecturer in Leadership and Management and as a Mentor and Advisor for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students at the Australian Institute of Business. I actively advocate for culturally competent counselling through research, education, and practice. My work bridges academic and therapeutic spaces, contributing to a more inclusive, reflective, and socially responsive profession. I regularly supervise and mentor students, deliver presentations and talks, and lead initiatives aimed at enhancing mental health literacy across diverse communities.
Are there any projects or initiatives you're currently involved in?
Yes, I’m currently involved in several research projects that reflect my commitment to wellbeing and inclusivity: “Supporting Students in Tertiary Education in Managing Emotional Stress, Motivation, and Study-Work-Life Balance”, “Cultural Competency in Evolving Diverse Societies”, and “Harnessing the Power of Peer Support at the Workplace.” These projects explore practical strategies for fostering emotionally healthy, inclusive, and high-functioning environments in both educational and professional settings.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career in counselling/psychotherapy?
Begin with curiosity and humility. Counselling is not about solving providing solutions but walking alongside others as they make sense of their world. It's a profession that demands emotional presence, cultural sensitivity, and a commitment to ongoing personal and professional growth.
Is there a quote or philosophy that inspires your work?
Yes, one quote by Rumi that deeply resonates with me is: “Don't you know yet? It is your light that lights the world.” It reminds me that every individual carries inherent worth and potential, even when they may not see it themselves. My role as a counsellor, educator, or mentor is to help others reconnect with that light and recognise their own capacity for resilience, growth, and impact.
Open question – tell anything that was not asked in the previous questions.
As someone who bridges academic research, counselling practice, and community mentoring, I see myself as both a practitioner and a learner. I believe that our work as counsellors is not just about helping individuals—it’s about contributing to more compassionate systems. Whether I’m presenting research, supporting a client in distress, or mentoring a young person, my aim is the same: to make space for growth, healing, and dignity.