When did you start at NBP? What were you doing before that?
I started at NBP in March 2022. I had been working the last two and a half years for 1800 RESPECT as a crisis counsellor. I am passionate about domestic violence but I have always wanted to go into private practice. Now I get the variety of working in both roles.
I previously worked as a mental health practitioner with mental illness; another passion. Before that, during my studies in counselling, I worked in the disability sector.
Why did you get into the field of Psychology/Therapy in the first place?
I have always been passionate about psychology and counselling. People always came to me with their problems and I have enjoyed supporting them. My friends and family often suggested from a young age that I should get into this field and I was keen. My first degree was in counselling in my 20s, then I went on to further studies in the area of psychology. I did a lot of volunteer work to contribute to the community and gain experience while studying. I also did paid work in the areas of drug and alcohol addiction, physical and intellectual disability, acquired brain injury, and school counselling.
What would you have done if you didn’t become a therapist?
I have an abiding interest in this area, so it is hard to imagine my life without working in this field. But I do love all creatures great and small, so perhaps I could have been a vet or wildlife supporter because I care about fury friends as well.
What do you like best about your job?
I love the diversity of the people that come into our office. I love that they are brave enough to reach out to get support and I genuinely care about helping them. I love it when we reach the goals that we set out to achieve, and when they make breakthroughs and gain new understanding. It’s humbling to work with people from different walks of life and various backgrounds, who might just need a little support to reach their goals or find more peace. It is very satisfying when clients can see positive changes in their lives and they are grateful for the support I have provided. It is a real gift to support people in this way.
Which are your favorite therapies to draw from and why?
I like to draw from quite a few different therapies because I don’t believe ‘one size fits all’. The most important thing is a non-judgmental approach. It takes courage to come to therapy and it is crucial to create a safe space in sessions. I take a humanistic approach. My focus is person-centered. The Gottman Method is great for couples because it is research-driven and teaches great strategies. I also love non-violent communication (NVC) as I find it very helpful for getting messages across in a non-threatening way. I use motivational interviewing to get things started and a strengths-based approach to help clients build on their existing strong points. I also like to use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to reframe slightly distorted thinking and help make positive changes in the direction of clients’ goals. Sometimes a solution-focused approach is needed to help clients work through issues in a fast and effective way. If things need to be explored more deeply, then narrative therapy is useful. I use an eclectic approach to therapy because we are all different and so are our relationships.
What activities do you enjoy outside of work?
Outside work I enjoy spending time with my son, friends and family. We enjoy social activities and spend time in nature. I love enjoying Brisbane’s beautiful sunshine!
Want to see Freya?
Freya works at our Lutwyche office. You can learn more about Freya here. Individuals and couples can book to see her by phoning 07 3726 5595.