Personal Philosophy
A space to be heard, understood and gently challenged.
My work is grounded in compassion, curiosity and respect for each person’s lived experience. I understand that midlife can bring both pressure and possibility; a time when long-held roles, relationships and expectations begin to shift.
Counselling with me offers space to explore what may be happening beneath the surface, and to reconnect with your own voice, values and sense of direction.
“The afternoon of human life must also have a significance of its own and cannot be merely a pitiful appendage to
life’s morning”
Carl Jung
Built For Your Needs
How we work together
Compassionate
Insightful
Grounded
Respectful
A non-judgemental space for honest reflection.
Support to recognise patterns, needs and emotional themes.
Practical support for real-life transitions and decisions.
Therapy shaped around your pace, story and goals.
I work collaboratively with you, beginning by building a strong, trusting relationship that sits at the heart of our work together. We will explore your worries and concerns at a pace that feels safe, respectful and supportive.
My aim is for you to feel deeply heard, accepted and valued exactly as you are. Through warmth, empathy and curiosity, I will support you as we uncover new insights and develop practical ways to navigate change. Over time, you may begin to understand yourself more clearly and see new possibilities for the life ahead.
Kerrin Paterson
Background
Many years ago, I reached a point in my life where, despite appearing successful and competent on the outside, I felt lost, disconnected and uncertain about who I really was. I felt bored, stagnant and stuck in a mundane and repetitive life with no relief in sight.
My mental health and relationship suffered.
Like many people in midlife, I found myself questioning my purpose, identity and the path I was on. That experience led me on a journey of reflection, healing and growth.
With the support of wonderful therapists, some good friends, getting out into nature, immersing myself in the arts and philosophy, I gradually rediscovered a stronger, more authentic sense of myself.
Inspired by this transformation, I retrained in psychology, counselling and psychotherapy.
Today, I bring professional expertise and lived experience to my work. I offer you a compassionate, understanding space where you can explore your own challenges, reconnect with yourself, and move towards a life that feels more meaningful and fulfilling.
Professional Background
I hold a Master of Psychotherapy and Counselling and a Bachelor of Psychology with Honours (First Class, University Medal).
I am registered with the two professional bodies in Australia for Counsellors and Psychotherapists: PACFA (Certified Practicing) and ACA (Level 2).
My areas of special interest include:
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Mid and late-life transitions and challenges to sense of self and identity
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Grief, loss, and bereavement
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Loneliness
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Late-life divorce, separation, relationships
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Support for carers, including foster carers.
My approach is grounded in the Person Centred and Existential schools of counselling and psychotherapy.
And my practice is trauma-informed and strengths based.