About Kate

My first inspiration for psychotherapy came when I was 18 years old. I was, like most teenagers, navigating my way through many life changes and the creation of my identity as a young adult. At this time I felt an emptiness that I could not even speak about. I did not have any words for it. This emptiness manifested in my life in many ways, through intense difficulties in my relationships, a lack of a feeling of direction in my life and a desire to withdraw from the rest of the world.

At the time I did not have anyone to talk to. A friend gave me a book about psychotherapy. The personal and insightful stories in this book were the first validation that I had of my inner world and the pain that I was in. It was like a medicine for me, and soon afterwards I started having regular psychotherapy as well as studying in the area so that I could learn as much as I could about this method of helping others.

My experience over the last 15 years is that psychotherapy is deeply healing for the soul. Instead of ignoring emotional wounds I have been able to hear and bear the pain of my loss and disappointments and come to terms with my life so that I have a greater sense of peace and confidence in who I am. This healing has meant that I can live well in the present, with family and friends around me, work that is meaningful and fulfilling, and lots of creative expression.

I am a passionate believer in the power of psychotherapy and counselling to help people to gain clarity and insight into their desires and actions and ultimately to have purpose and satisfaction in their lives. I have learned most from my own experience of psychotherapy and seeing many others benefit over many years. When we resolve life problems the benefits are felt by our families and friends too. Therapy has good outcomes that flow outward into the community.

Although I consider my personal experience of therapy to be the best learning that I could have in becoming a therapist, training is also important. I have trained at university level in psychology and philosophy. I have completed post-graduate qualifications in psychoanalytic psychotherapy and group facilitation. I am currently a student with the Perth School of Psychotherapy and Counselling. I consider ongoing education and supervision to be essential to my practice.

I have extensive experience working in community services, particularly with youth and people with disabilities and their families. I have worked with individuals and groups from many walks of life. I consider it a privilege to be able to hear about your experience and to assist where I can.