Holistic Healing for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples
For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, healing is not about focusing on just one part of a person. Healing involves the mind, body, emotions and spirit. It is also about strengthening our connection to Culture, family, community and Country.
Healing is most effective when it is culturally strong, developed locally and led by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Community knows what community needs. When our people are involved in designing and leading healing programs, the support is more meaningful, culturally safe and connected to the lived experiences of the people taking part.
Supporting men and boys to reconnect with Culture, identity and positive cultural values can play an important role in healing and creating change. Investment in Aboriginal community-controlled men’s healing and behaviour change programs does more than improve individual and family wellbeing. It can also reduce the long-term social and financial costs associated with family violence, disconnection, trauma and involvement with government systems.
Culture is at the heart of everything we do at Warru Counselling and Consultancy. We understand that healing looks different for every person. Our role is to walk alongside you as you strengthen relationships, reconnect with Culture and Country, and work through the experiences that may be holding you back.
Since 2012, I have supported individuals, families and communities to build healthier relationships and create greater balance in their lives. My approach brings together professional counselling, lived experience, Culture and connection. I believe healing begins when people feel heard, respected and culturally safe.
You do not have to walk the healing journey alone. Together, we can explore what healing means for you, strengthen the connections that support you and create a pathway towards a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Counselling on Country
For more than 13 years, Warru Counselling and Consultancy has supported individuals, families and communities through culturally safe and responsive mental health and wellbeing services.
We understand that every person’s story is different. People come to counselling with their own experiences, strengths, challenges, relationships and connections to Culture and Country. Because of this, we do not believe in using the same approach for everyone. Our support is shaped around the individual and what they need to feel safe, heard and supported.
We provide a respectful and non-judgemental space where people can talk openly about what is happening in their lives. Our role is to walk alongside each person as they make sense of their emotions, work through past trauma and identify the changes they would like to make.
At Warru, we understand that mental health cannot be separated from physical, emotional, spiritual, cultural and social wellbeing. Our approach is holistic and recognises the importance of family, kinship, community, Culture and connection to Country.
Where appropriate, our support can be delivered on Country and can include culturally grounded healing practices, yarning and reflection. We support people to recognise behaviours that may be causing harm, understand where those behaviours come from and develop healthier ways of responding.
Our experienced and compassionate counsellors work in partnership with each person to develop practical and meaningful strategies that strengthen wellbeing, relationships and connection. We do not tell people how to live their lives. Instead, we support them to recognise their own strengths, make informed choices and move forward in a way that feels right for them.
Healing is not something that should be rushed or forced. It is a journey, and we are here to walk alongside you.
At Warru Counselling and Consultancy, we believe that in order to heal, it is important to understand and appreciate one's culture and ancestral knowledge. Our supportive methods enable clients to reconnect with their spirit and harness the wisdom of their ancestors to reconcile with themselves and heal. We approach each client with compassion and understanding, and strive to provide a safe and nurturing environment for them to share their journey.
Feedback from Clients
Warru Counselling and Consultancy acknowledges and pays our respects to the traditional custodians across the lands, waters and seas, and thank our Elders for their continued custodianship, while recognising that Sovereignty was never ceded.
We also thank our Torres Strait Island ancestors and Elders for continuing to guide us.