Healing begins with understanding your story of  pain  and strength.

Understanding Trauma: Healing the Imprints on Body, Mind, and Brain

Trauma is not only about what happened to us but how it changes us inside. It can stem from a single, shocking event—like an accident, assault, or sudden loss—or from a series of distressing experiences that build over time, such as neglect, abuse, chronic pain, or chronic illness. In moments where our sense of safety, wellbeing, and ability to cope are shattered, trauma can leave deep imprints on our mind, brain, and body. These imprints may manifest as overwhelming emotions, physical tension, or difficulties in daily life.

For some, this may develop into Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), where the past continues to intrude into the present through flashbacks, nightmares, or heightened vigilance. Others may feel a persistent sense of numbness, disconnection, or being on edge without understanding why.

Clients often come to me seeking relief from overwhelming symptoms—angry outbursts, persistent sadness, sleepless nights, or heightened anxiety—only to discover that these struggles are connected to a deeper, unacknowledged pain. These parts of you, as difficult as they may feel, have been working tirelessly to protect you from revisiting the core wound beneath.

In therapy, we can gently create a safe and compassionate space to explore these protective parts, gradually uncovering and healing the pain they guard. This process can help you reconnect with your true Self—a place where joy, safety, and meaningful relationships are once again possible.

I deeply respect the courage it takes to be vulnerable and share your story. I offer a free phone consultation to ensure you feel safe in the therapeutic relationship before making an appointment.

Please book a phone consultation so I can create the time and space to focus on you.

“Like the slow unfolding of a flower, your nervous system heals in its own time. Be patient, for peace will bloom from the depths of your pain.”

Living in a difficult body

Whether it is a new diagnosis or a long-standing condition, living in a difficult body can profoundly impact every aspect of your life. It may leave you feeling isolated, anxious, or depressed, while also challenging your sense of identity and self-worth. You may find yourself grieving the life you once envisioned, caught in the painful space between what you hoped for and what is now your reality.

In this chasm resides grief, a complex and often silent companion. Grief frequently intertwines with shame and guilt, creating an unbearably heavy burden to carry. You may blame yourself for what your body can no longer do, or feel guilty for the strain your condition places on those around you. Living in a difficult body can challenge your closest relationships, add financial pressures, and affect your work, your dreams, and even your ability to find joy in daily life.

I understand that trauma often walks hand-in-hand with the experiences of illness and chronic pain. These experiences leave traces—not only on your body but also on your mind and emotions. And this impact isn’t confined to you alone; those who love and care for you may carry their own wounds, shaped by witnessing your struggle and feeling powerless to help.

You do not have to carry this burden alone. Through compassionate and tailored support, you can begin to process the weight of your experience, find moments of peace, and reconnect with your sense of self beyond illness or pain. Therapy offers a space to explore your feelings, your grief, and your resilience, helping you navigate a life that still holds meaning and connection.

Hi, I am Jo

I know from personal experience the challenges of trauma and living in a body that feels like it is betraying you. Having both a chronic pain condition and a chronic health condition shapes every aspect of my life. It is why I retrained in mental health and why I offer my service to you.

  • “I feel so safe and comfortable with Jo, validated, listened to, understood and supported by Jo, the only person I’ve ever felt this comfortable with in my 67 years. She’s a very special, highly trained, and educated lady with so much personal experience which means she can relate to my grief, trauma and pain."

    Deb

  • “I’ve been seeing a psychologist for two years, but I made more progress around my trauma in just one session with Jo. Her thoughtful questioning opened up areas I hadn’t considered, helping me understand myself in a new way. I’m excited to continue working with her and feel hopeful about the healing ahead.”

    Mark

    *name changed for privacy

  • “I have had the joy of working with Jo now for three sessions and she’s hands down the best counsellor I’ve ever seen. Her capacity to hold space and tap into the meaning behind my words is just incredible. She is kind, authentic and honest and I felt such a sense of ease upon first meeting her. I feel optimistic about my future having Jo in my life.”

    Mel

Taking the next step

Reaching out for help can be difficult. I offer a range of ways that you can begin engaging with your wellbeing and mental health.

The latest articles

Insights from Jo

Practical insights and compassionate guidance to support your path from merely surviving to truly thriving.

Blog
How to set healthy boundaries
How to set healthy boundaries
Why Trauma-Informed Therapy Matters for Chronic Illness
Why Trauma-Informed Therapy Matters for Chronic Illness
Understanding triggers: A window into trauma and healing
Understanding triggers: A window into trauma and healing

Common questions

  • The trauma therapy I offer is not covered under the Medicare Framework. My approach is highly specialised and tailored to support deep healing, which falls outside the scope of standard mental health rebates.

    I understand that affordability is important, so I offer a small number of sliding-scale appointments to make therapy more accessible. If this isn't the right fit, I am happy to help you explore other options, including practitioners who accept Mental Health Care Plans. Your wellbeing is my priority, and I want you to find the support that best meets your needs.

  • I offer both in-person and online sessions. To book please click book now and then choose telehealth for online appointments.

  • This is a complex question, as there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Some people find significant healing within 8 sessions, while others may benefit from engaging in therapy over a longer period, sometimes for years. After working together, I will be able to provide a clearer sense of what might be most helpful for you.

    Research shows that the most important factors in healing are the quality of the relationship between the client and practitioner, as well as the client’s willingness to engage in reflection and practice outside of sessions.

  • 2024: Individual therapy session: $100

    *My fees will be increasing from Jan 1 2025 to reflect my ongoing professional development and the value of my services.

    2025: Individual therapy session: $130

  • I specialise in supporting individuals who have experienced trauma or live with chronic illness or chronic pain. My primary therapeutic approaches include Deep Brain Reorienting and Internal Family Systems, both of which are designed to foster deep healing and self-understanding.

    In addition, I draw on techniques from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, mindfulness practices, and narrative therapy. I also provide counselling for grief and loss. This integrative approach allows me to tailor therapy to your unique needs and goals, ensuring you feel supported throughout your healing journey.