About

JuliaDerry.JPG

Julia Derry

Counsellor

Master of Social Science (Human Services Counselling)

A little about me

Clients have commented on how I have a warm, kind and gentle nature. I think it’s these qualities that help create a safe, honest and genuine connection with people. I think it can be healing to be given a space with someone who wants to sit with you through challenging thoughts, emotions and experiences and offer understanding. When I talk with people, I really try to put myself in their shoes to understand where they are at, why they might be stuck, whilst being compassionate about their struggles. I help clients to clarify their goals and then work together to develop strategies and navigate difficulties in order to achieve their goals. With a client-centred approach, I draw on a variety of evidence-based approaches. I might not have all the answers, but I work collaboratively with people to find a better way forward.

I can help you with:

  • Adjustment to life changes

  • Anxiety

  • Burnout

  • Carer support

  • Communication skills

  • Demotivation

  • Depression

  • Emotional difficulties

  • Family issues

  • Friendship issues

  • Generalised anxiety

  • Grief and loss

  • Health anxiety

  • Identity issues

  • Job dissatisfaction

  • Life transitions

  • Low self-esteem

  • Parenting problems

  • Perfectionism

  • Procrastination

  • Relationship issues

  • Self-development

  • Self-esteem

  • Sleep problems

  • Social skills

  • Social anxiety

  • Stress

  • Study dissatisfaction

  • Work issues

  • Wellbeing and self-care

My therapeutic approaches

Depending on my client’s needs and preferences, I draw on a variety of evidence-based approaches including:

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

  • Client Centred Therapy

  • Cognitive Behaviour Therapy

  • Compassion-based approaches

  • Interpersonal Therapy

  • Mindfulness

  • Positive Psychology

  • Solution Focused Therapy

  • Strengths-based approaches

  • Trauma-informed practice

My background and experience

After a career in marketing, I started studying counselling because of a persistent desire to support others and help make a difference in people's lives. I've worked in various mental health settings over six years and have spent the last four years counselling adults in community-based organisations. After completing my Master’s of Counselling at Swinburne University, I now teach there in the Master’s of Counselling course in the Foundations of Counselling and Advanced Counselling subjects.

Chat with me

For more information and to explore if we are good fit, please contact us to have a confidential chat.