About REN

 I'm a Masters-qualified, PACFA Registered Certified Practising Counsellor working with adults and young people (15+).

I believe counselling works best when you feel genuinely heard and understood — not judged, labelled, or told what you “should” be doing.

Many people come to counselling feeling overwhelmed, stuck, exhausted, or simply knowing that something isn't quite right. You don't need to know exactly what's wrong or have everything figured out before reaching out.

My approach is practical, collaborative and down-to-earth. We'll start with what's happening for you, make sense of it together, and work towards changes that feel realistic and useful in your life.

And while the things we talk about can be difficult, counselling itself doesn't need to feel overly formal. There's room to be yourself, and there's room for humour when it feels right. 

I began my career as a community pharmacist and have worked in pharmacy for 20 years. I continue to work as a pharmacist alongside my counselling practice.

Over those years, I've supported people through many stages of life and seen how deeply mental health can impact every part of a person's world — relationships, work, confidence, physical health, family, and sense of self.

I often found that the most meaningful moments weren't just about medication or health advice. They were the moments where someone felt comfortable enough to share what was really going on.

Alongside me was Woof, my trained therapy dog, who spent many years supporting people in the pharmacy environment. Watching the comfort and connection she provided reinforced something I strongly believe — feeling safe, accepted, and supported is an important part of healing.

Over time, I realised I wanted to focus more deeply on supporting people's emotional wellbeing. This led me to complete my Master of Counselling and move into the mental health field.

Since completing my counselling training, I have worked extensively in mental health support, including crisis and suicide prevention settings.

This work has allowed me to support people experiencing intense distress, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship challenges, gambling-related concerns, life transitions, and moments where coping feels incredibly difficult.

Working in crisis support has shaped the counsellor I am today. It has taught me the importance of staying calm, listening deeply, and meeting people exactly where they are.

I also work in clinical leadership, supporting counsellors with complex presentations, risk and clinical decision-making. My experience has included working as a Lead Counsellor and Acting Clinical Manager, which has further strengthened my clinical judgement and understanding of what safe, compassionate mental health care looks like.

For clients who may benefit from a calming animal presence, sessions with Woof, my trained therapy dog, may be available by request.

Woof has many years of experience supporting people in healthcare settings and brings a gentle, grounding presence to the counselling space.

Therapy dog sessions are completely optional and always discussed beforehand to make sure they feel right for you. 

Reaching out for counselling can feel like a big step, especially if you've spent a long time managing things on your own.

Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, navigating something difficult, or simply feel ready for things to change, you're welcome to get in touch.

Together, we can explore what's happening and what support might help.