Question 1

1. What are “stuck patterns”?

Accepted Answer

“Stuck patterns” are emotional or behavioural loops that the brain and body learned earlier in life—often for protection—that continue to show up even when they no longer serve us. These patterns live in our neural networks and can affect how we respond to stress, relationships, conflict, intimacy, and everyday life.

Question 2

2. What does “trauma-informed counselling” mean?

Accepted Answer

Trauma-informed counselling means we work at a pace that feels safe. We recognize how past experiences influence emotions, behaviour, and the nervous system—and we never push you beyond your capacity. The goal is to gently explore patterns while building emotional safety, awareness, and resilience.

Question 3

3. What happens in a session?

Accepted Answer

Sessions may include:Exploring patterns and emotional triggers.Building awareness of body sensations, thoughts, and feelings.Learning emotional regulation skills.Developing language for emotions. Experimenting with new, healthier responses.LaughterTearsProcessing emotional memories safely later on down the track.You always remain in control of what you want to explore.

Question 4

4. What does “pattern exploration” involve?

Accepted Answer

Pattern exploration involves identifying recurring emotional or relational loops—where they began, how they show up, and what they’re trying to protect you from. Once we understand the pattern, we can gently update it over time, as the brain creates new neural pathways that support healthier, more flexible responses.

Question 5

5. What counselling approaches do you use?

Accepted Answer

My eclectic approach may include:Person Centered counsellingTrauma-informed counsellingDialectical behavior therapySomatic awarenessCBT-informed toolsMindfulness and groundingAttachment-focused explorationNervous system educationEmotional regulation educationLived experience insight​We tailor the approach to your needs—not the other way around.

Question 6

6. How does emotional regulation fit into this?

Accepted Answer

Emotional regulation is the ability to experience emotions without becoming overwhelmed or shutting down. Many stuck patterns emerge from earlier moments when emotional support or safety was missing. At Stuck Patterns Counselling, we help you:​Recognize your emotions.Feel them.Understand them.Tolerate them.Express them in healthy ways​.Better regulation leads to better relationships, decision-making, and self-understanding.

Question 7

7. What are emotional memories?

Accepted Answer

Emotional memories are past experiences—especially overwhelming or unsupported ones—that can be stored across the brain and body. When triggered by present-day cues they can create intense emotional reactions that don’t seem to “match” the situation. We work to help you process and soften these emotional imprints so they no longer control your present.

Question 8

8. Can stuck patterns really change?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The brain supports change through neuroplasticity—it can learn and adapt at any age. With awareness, emotional literacy, supportive guidance, and new experiences, old patterns can loosen, shift, and be replaced by healthier ones.

Question 9

9. Do you offer online sessions?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer video and phone sessions, providing a safe, accessible environment for individuals who prefer the comfort of home.

Question 10

10. Who do you work with?

Accepted Answer

In the simplest terms, anyone who is stuck​ and/or who is experiencing;Common Recurring Emotional Struggles​You may notice patterns such as:Emotions that feel too big or too hard to manageEmotions that feel muted, distant, or hard to accessGetting triggered by situations that don’t fully match the present momentFeeling stuck in loops of anxiety, shame, fear, or self-doubtStruggling to regulate emotions once they’re activatedRepeating emotional reactions, even when you understand where they come fromFeeling disconnected from your needs or unsure of your boundariesDifficulty feeling your emotionsEmotional avoidance​These are everyday experiences for many people. They reflect learned emotional patterns, not personal flaws.​Examples of How These Patterns Show Up in Daily Life​For some people, these emotional patterns might look like:Feeling anxious in situations that seem “small” or “shouldn’t” be stressful.Replaying the same relationship dynamics or arguments.Avoiding emotional conversations or shutting down during conflict.Being overly self-critical or expecting perfection.Carrying responsibility for others’ feelings.Feeling overwhelmed around intimacy or closeness.Struggling to say no or yes, set boundaries, or name your needs.Overthinking decisions or seeking reassurance.Feeling lonely even in social situations.Becoming reactive without intending to.Anxiety when someone gets close or when intimacy deepens.People-pleasing or apologizing for things that aren’t your fault.Avoiding conflict or shutting down during difficult conversations.Overthinking simple decisions or needing reassurance.Perfectionism that makes even small tasks feel high-stakes.Overworking to avoid the fear of making a mistake.Feeling responsible for other people’s emotions or comfort.Withdrawing when emotions feel too big or too confusing.Becoming reactive before you’ve had a chance to think.Freezing when you need to speak up or set a boundary.Feeling on edge even in safe or calm situations.Sabotaging calm moments because part of you expects something to go wrong.Avoiding your own needs because they feel like a burden.Or anyone who would like to increase their emotional literacy, feel their feelings and improve their and emotion regulation.

Question 11

11. How long does counselling usually take?​

Accepted Answer

Everyone is different. Many clients notice meaningful change in 6–12 sessions when they practice between sessions. We set goals together and review progress regularly. If you would like to know more you can find out at my blog post on the timeline of emotional regulation in therapy.

Question 12

12. Is what I say confidential?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Sessions are confidential except in rare legally required situations (e.g. immediate risk).

Question 13

13. How quickly can I start?

Accepted Answer

A: Usually within 1–2 weeks depending on availability. Book a free 15‑minute consult to check fit.

Question 14

14. Are Stuck Patterns Counsellors registered, insured and safety checked?

Accepted Answer

Stuck Patterns Counselling is fully insured, registered, and safety compliant. This includes:Professional Indemnity InsurancePublic Liability InsuranceNational Police CheckWorking With Children Check (WWCC)Registration with the Australian Counselling Association (ACA)These measures ensure ethical, accountable, and safe practice for every client. Letting you know you’re in qualified and professionally supported hands at all times.

Question 15

15. What qualifications and education do you hold?

Accepted Answer

Higher education Qualifications and Work experienceDiploma of Counselling.Currently studying a Bachelor of Counselling.Certificate IV in Medical Practice Assisting.Certificate III in Pathology Specimen Collection.Certificate III in Business.10 years of experience as a Medical Assistant in a Gp surgery.4 years of professional counselling experience.Advanced Study MajorRelationship Counselling and Conflict Resolution.Additional Training - Micro credentialsDialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) .Trauma-Informed Counselling.Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT).Counselling Assessment.Mindfulness in Therapy.Diverse Genders and Sexualities .Health counselling.Ongoing Professional DevelopmentI am committed to continuous learning so that clients receive the most effective, up-to-date, and compassionate care.Alison – Neuroscience & Psychology.Neuroscience of Emotions and Social Cognition.Advanced Diploma in Brain and Behavior.Mental Health Academy – Trauma, Neuroscience & Therapy Training.Stories of Our Ancestors: The Impact of Culture.Principles of Trauma-Informed Practice.The Unmanageable Traumatic Demand of Coercive Control.Working with Trauma.When Talk Therapy Is Not Enough.Interrupting Intergenerational Trauma in Substance Use.What Is Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT)?Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT) for Individuals.Personal Synthesis and the ECS: A Transdiagnostic Approach.Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG).Xylazine: Worsening the Opiate CrisisFit Your Own Mask First: Professional Self-care for Helpers.Using CBT with Panic Disorder.Understanding and Preventing Compassion Fatigue.Diagnosing Trauma-Related Disorders.Trauma and Addiction: Taking Motivational Interviewing to the Next Level.Expected Discomfort vs Adverse Effects of Mindfulness: A Guide for Therapists.First Do No Harm: The Need for Trauma-Sensitive Mindfulness.Trauma Informed Care: Mindfulness-Based Treatment for Post-Traumatic Growth.How Behavioural Activation Can Help Your Depressed Clients.Community CoursesAnger management and conflict resolution.Tuning into kids.123 magic and emotion coaching. QC21 Supporting a suicidal young person.

Question 16

16. Do you do your own therapeutic work as a counsellor?

Accepted Answer

I believe in doing the same inner work I guide clients through.I have spent meaningful time in individual therapy and marriage counselling, and I continue to seek therapy from time to time.This helps me:stay regulated and self-awareunderstand the counselling process from the insidemaintain emotional clarityshow up fully and compassionately for my clientsIt is part of my ongoing commitment to ethical, grounded practice.

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