What happens next?
Once you’re registered we’ll be in touch to discuss what you’re going through and then pair you with a member of our friendly team.
Do you need urgent help?
Please note: This is not a crisis helpline. Support is available for you. If you need urgent help then 24/7 support services can be contacted via the below:
- Lifeline: 13 11 14
- Suicide Helpline: 1300 651 251
- 1800 Respect: (Family violence and sexual assault) 1800 737 732
- BayCISS: (Food relief) 9555 9910
- Emergency Services: 000
Gabrielle Bonneville
Counselling Placement Student
Gabrielle is currently completing her Master of Counselling degree at Monash University. Gabrielle has a compassionate and caring nature, and offers a safe space for clients experiencing difficult and challenging times. She has a particular interest in helping people examine the meaning they give to things and to explore beliefs about themselves and the world, and the origins of thoughts, emotions and behaviours.
Gabrielle speaks fluent French and has a deep understanding of the importance of cultural beliefs and the challenges associated with cultural diversity.
Deeksha Giri
Counselling Placement Student
Hey there! My name is Deeksha and I am pursuing a Master of Counselling from Monash University. I have an extensive background in Psychology and hold a strong vocation for counselling. When I am not learning how to be a counsellor, I love spending my time painting, going out cycling and watching Fiction series!
Tony Abhinyano
Counselling Placement Student
Tony Abhinyano is a former Occupational Therapist and Buddhist Monk with forty years of counseling experience. He guides and supports clients to reduce their level of stress and enjoy a better quality of life.
Daryl Davies
Counselling Placement Student
Daryl is an experienced animated television editor who has decided to make a career transition into counselling in order to bring his work life into agreement with his personal interests. As a counsellor he wants to bring innovative techniques into modern counselling practice and help clients deepen their self knowledge. Daryl has completed all course work at Monash and is looking forward to embarking on his counselling career.
If you feel like talking to someone about something specific, or even a general chat, we have four Counselling Placement Students, from Monash University available through the Highett Neighbourhood Community House. Speaking with one of our Counsellors gives you an opportunity to talk about how you are feeling in a safe and non-judgemental environment and helps you identify your resources to cope with these uncertain times. Please contact us to make an appointment on 0492 800 592. The ongoing pandemic is a trying time for all of us. It is important to take care of ourselves. Being away from friends and family, may result in feelings of grief, anxiety or worry for some of us, while others may feel frustrated, restless and disconnected from others. All of these reactions are valid and understandable in the current climate. It is important to acknowledge and understand these feelings and reach out for support if you feel you might need it. Some helpful tips to manage such feelings are –
- Focusing your attention and energy on actions that are in your control such as ensuring we take appropriate steps to protect ourselves and other from the virus such as by practising good hygiene, following the social distancing protocols, etc. This also includes focusing on things we are still able to do rather than those we are not, for instance, catching up on some reading, listening to some podcasts, trying some new recipes, learning new instruments and languages, taking up gardening or parenting a houseplant.
- Maintaining day-to-day routines and activities as much as possible, which includes the basics, such as having healthy and timely meals every day, maintaining a sleep schedule and getting enough sleep, exercising a few times a week (if not every day) and keeping up with your hobbies and activities that you enjoy, as best you can.
- Moderating your intake of news and social media is very important. While it is essential to stay informed and prepared, you must find credible sources of information, such as the Australian Department of Health. Further, a constant flow of heavy information and social media content can intensify stress and agitation.
- Staying connected amidst social isolation is a powerful tool in helping ourselves and others to cope with challenges. Not only can talking to our friends and family bring about a sense of comfort and stability but also give us helpful ways of thinking and dealing with stress and anxiety. We can stay connected in a number of ways through texting, calling, video chatting, virtual book or movie clubs, sharing recipes and working out together over video platforms
In the current climate, taking these steps can seem like a challenge. Please don’t hesitate to reach out and contact us to make an appointment on 0492 800 592.
