
Services
Registered Counsellor
Davida Soma
Languages Spoken:
- English
About me:
My name is Davida. I was born in Papua New Guinea and migrated to Australia. With a bicultural background and re-establishing our lives back here in Australia, I am aware of the social, emotional and cross-cultural challenges of change. That is, anxiety, loss of identity, social isolation and lack of self-esteem and confidence.
My role, as a counsellor (trauma and families), is to support my clients with various challenges. Understanding how these challenges can impact self and others is primary to adjusting behaviours to improve a relationship with self and others. Clients come to me based on a wide range of issues (from relationships, socialisation, learning and community isolation vs participation etc.). My task is to assist individuals recognise their behaviours and change to improve self. My clients (and their families) come with a multitude of challenges but mostly the need to be seen, heard – valued.
Diagnosed with a neurocognitive disorder or a development delay, trauma and or any other challenge, I am very passionate about providing everybody a space for people to talk about their thoughts and beliefs.
Approach:
My approach is strength based and solution focused. That is, I apply various tools (nature, art, music, writing etc.) to meet positive outcomes. I am a results-oriented and client-focused professional who’s been involved in education, community development and conflict management for more than 25-years (Australia) before transitioning into the counselling circle.
I have in-depth understanding of trauma and associated behaviours, and an up-to-date cross-cultural and evidence-based knowledge of the present social issues impacting the lives of children, youth and families from diverse cultural and socio-economic backgrounds. I have a passion for supporting those most vulnerable in our community and also those that have given so much to our communities (health care workers, Defence and Police personnel). After many years of working in education, I am most passionate about our children, youth and families being heard and the impact of their environment.
Experience (in brief):
Before transitioning into a counselling role I worked in education, case management and community development (ACT, NSW and QLD).
The individuals I have supported have travelled far, in life and in personal growth and if I can take anything from my own path, it's gratitude.
I have worked with refugees and victims of crime and participate in advocating for those that need extra support.
I relish supporting individuals diagnosed with various complex disorders and social challenges, as they are often left to resolve issues that they find complex and overwhelming. At most, they just need someone to be present and objective.
I have worked closely people of various cultures and backgrounds and with assorted challenges. For example, anxiety (learning/ education, transition, sensory, social and emotional), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
If you have any further questions, around my knowledge and/ or experience, please reach out and we can discuss further.
Qualifications
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