Perspective Matters Counselling
I foster a supportive environment where your voice is valued. My counselling approach is both person-centred and strength-based, providing a pathway to clarity and inner peace.
Sophia Meehan
Counsellor (Mental Health, Relationships, and Career Guidance)
Before opening my counselling practice, I was employed in frontline and leadership positions in both the private and public sectors for over 30 years. Surprising to some people, I also have a trade background and spent 10 years managing a small rural enterprise. This broad-ranging experience ensures my relatability to people from all walks of life, while bringing to light their individual concerns and day-to-day challenges. I am a registered counsellor with the Australian Counselling Association, and have undertaken training in trauma-informed care, recognising and responding to grief, working with individuals at risk of suicide, and applying the CHIME framework to mental health recovery https://shorturl.at/1nwuG. My academic and professional qualifications are listed below.
Qualifications
- Master of Guidance and Counselling (Distinction), James Cook University.
- Master of Applied Science, Charles Sturt University.
- Bachelor of Applied Science, Southern Cross University.
- Diploma of Project Management, Australian Institute of Public Administration.
- Certificate of Public Participation, International Association for Public Participation.
- Certificate of Completion Peer Guide Program, SANE.
- Associate Environmental Auditor, Quality Society of Australia.
- Trade Certificate in Bricklaying and Masonry, TAFE NSW.
Ongoing Studies
- Doctor of Philosophy, Health and Society, University of Wollongong.
Memberships and Affiliations
- Australian Counselling Association Membership (Level 2) No. 26975.
- James Cook University Alumni Association.
- Charles Sturt University Alumni Association.
Current Clearance Checks
- Criminal History Check (release date 16/07/2024).
- National Health and Disability Worker Check No. 38880225. (expiry date 07/08/2029).
- Working with Children Check (Employee) No. WWC2659343E (expiry date 30/07/2029).
- Working with Children Check (Volunteer) No. WWC2659343V (expiry date 05/05/2028).
Professional Obligations
As a registered (Level 2) member of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA), I undertake 10 hours of clinical supervision and accrue 25 points of ongoing professional development annually. I also hold current professional indemnity and public liability insurance and comply with the ACA’s Code of Ethics and Practice.
Key Features of My Counselling Practice
Personalised Care
Evidence Based Therapies
Genuinely Inclusive
Empathetic Listening
Confidential Discussions
Holistic Care
Flexible Scheduling
Practical Guidance
Nonjudgmental Support
Person Centred Approach
Trust Building Communication
Culturally Sensitive
Strength Based Therapy
Present Moment Focus
Continuous Improvement
Creating a Safe Space
My Commitment to You
I provide a safe and respectful counselling environment for all clients, guided by the following commitments:
Inclusivity. Everyone is welcome. I will not discriminate, judge, or hold any prejudices against clients, allowing them to speak honestly and openly.
Individuality. Everyone is different. I will tailor my counselling to meet the unique needs of each client, acknowledging and respecting our differences.
Quality care. Everyone is entitled to optimal care. I will use therapies that are grounded in a strong evidence base only, ensuring that our time together is productive and rewarding.