Counsellor and teenage client walking during a walk and talk therapy session in Ballina, Northern Rivers

My Counselling Approach

I believe effective counselling begins with connection.

The relationship between counsellor and client is central to creating a space where you feel safe, respected and able to be yourself.

My approach is person-centred, strengths-based and evidence-informed. I draw from a range of therapeutic approaches and tailor sessions to your individual needs and goals.

Together, we may explore your thoughts, emotions, behaviours, experiences and patterns, while developing practical strategies and greater self-awareness.

What Happens In A Counselling Session?

Your first session is about getting to know each other and understanding what has brought you to counselling.

We will explore:

  • What you would like support with

  • Your current challenges and experiences

  • Your goals for counselling

  • What approach feels most helpful for you

There is no expectation to have everything worked out before you arrive.

Counselling is a process, and we move at a pace that feels comfortable for you.

Individual Counselling Options

Sessions are available:

  • Walk & Talk Therapy in natural settings

  • Online counselling

Sessions are available across the Northern Rivers NSW.

Taking The Next Step

Choosing a counsellor is a personal decision.

If you are looking for a warm, professional and supportive counselling space, I invite you to get in touch.

BOOK A session

Outdoor counselling session with therapist in a natural setting, Northern Rivers NSW

Counselling for Older Teens (16+) & Adults | Northern Rivers NSW

A supportive space to understand yourself, navigate challenges and create meaningful change.

Counselling provides a confidential and supportive space to explore your thoughts, emotions, experiences and the challenges you may be facing.

At Coastal Counselling, I offer individual counselling for older teens (16+) and adults who are seeking support with anxiety, self-worth, grief and loss, and life transitions.

You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, disconnected from yourself, or simply know that something needs to change.

Counselling offers a space to pause, reflect and gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your experiences.

Who I Work With

I support individuals aged 16+ who are navigating a range of life experiences, including:

  • Young people transitioning through late adolescence and into adulthood

  • Adults experiencing periods of change, uncertainty or emotional difficulty

  • People who feel overwhelmed, anxious or stuck

  • Those wanting to develop greater self-awareness and self-understanding

  • Individuals wanting support through significant life transitions

You do not need to wait until things feel unmanageable to seek support. Counselling can be valuable at any stage of life.

Areas I Support

Anxiety & Stress

Anxiety can affect how we think, feel and respond to everyday situations.

Counselling can help you explore:

  • Patterns of worry and overthinking

  • Stress responses and emotional overwhelm

  • Triggers and coping strategies

  • Ways to build greater calm and confidence

Self-Worth & Confidence

Our relationship with ourselves influences how we experience the world.

Counselling can support you to explore:

  • Self-criticism and limiting beliefs

  • Confidence and identity

  • Boundaries and personal needs

  • Connecting with your values and strengths

Grief & Loss

Grief is a deeply personal experience and can follow many types of loss.

This may include:

  • Losing someone important

  • Relationship changes

  • Changes in identity or circumstances

  • Health challenges

  • Adjusting to a life you didn't expect

Counselling provides space to process your experience with compassion and understanding.

Life Transitions

Change can bring both opportunity and uncertainty.

Counselling may support you through:

  • Leaving school or becoming independent

  • Career changes

  • Relationship changes

  • Parenting transitions

  • Major life decisions

  • Finding direction and purpose

BOOK A session

  • ''The different ways to think about a situation are most useful in my sessions with Sahra. I learnt that I am capable and strong enough to get through things in life that I find challenging. One of the best counselling services around. I get so much from each session and would definitely recommend’’

    Client testimonial

  • "Sahra came into my life when I needed her the most. I had just lost my beautiful mum and I was not in a good place. Sahra listened to me and gave me the tools to help navigate my horrific grief, she saved me from myself and the dark hole I was in. To be able to walk on the beach and talk about how I was feeling was such a beautiful experience. I will be forever grateful to Sahra for her kindness and help"

    Client testimonial

  • "Sahra came into my life when I needed her the most. I had just lost my beautiful mum and I was not in a good place. Sahra listened to me and gave me the tools to help navigate my horrific grief, she saved me from myself and the dark hole I was in. To be able to walk on the beach and talk about how I was feeling was such a beautiful experience. I will be forever grateful to Sahra for her kindness and help"

    Client testimonial

  • "My daughter had sessions with Sahra during some tough times as a teenager, and it truly made a difference. Sahra's compassionate approach not only helped her navigate challenges but also empowered her to develop resilience and coping strategies. I'm grateful for Sahra's support and would encourage any parent looking for effective counselling for their teenage daughter to consider Walk and Talk Therapy with Sahra"

    Parent testimonial

  • “Sahra makes it feel like a conversation instead of asking questions and evaluating me. She is a lovely human being"

    Teen client testimonial

  • "Working with Sahra has truly changed my life. Thanks so much for your amazing support—you're one of my biggest cheerleaders!"

    Client testimonial

  • "I am so grateful to have reached out to Sahra when I was in a very negative state. She has a very gentle and empathetic approach whilst being able to challenge my negative beliefs and giving practical tools for my anxiety. The setting on the beach is just perfect, I could not imagine going back to having sessions in an enclosed room. Thank you Sahra for all your incredible help along the way, I'm looking forward to continuing our journey"

    Client testimonial

  • "Sahra is one the most supportive, positive, encouraging ladies I've ever met. She has been my Support Worker through NDIS now for some time and I can't thank her enough. She inspires, gently encourages and assists me to achieve my goals, assists me with appointments and gets me out in the community each week in our time together. I feel nurtured, cared for and encouraged to achieve my daily tasks and meet my new goals. If you are looking for a Community Support Worker, I highly recommend Sahra. She is all you need to feel supported and encouraged, both physically and emotionally all wrapped up in one complete package. She is invaluable"'

    NDIS participant testimonial

  • “Talking to Sahra felt like opening up to a trusted friend who truly understood what I was going through. Her compassion and support have helped me find strength and clarity when I needed it most. I highly recommend Sahra's therapy to any teenage girl looking for a safe space to explore their emotions and work through challenges"

    Client testimonial

  • “I found Sahra when I really needed some support with anxiety and depression after a family loss. Her sessions were always uplifting and supportive and I loved that I had a choice in walking on the beach or sitting gently in the shade"

    Client testimonial

  • ''I am a 45-year-old male and have been through a lot in my life. I was in a dark hole when I saw an ad on Facebook with two people on the beach. I thought that would be nice — not in a room. But I was so afraid of being in public. Looking back now, it’s been the best decision. I’ve seen a long list of counsellors but never felt comfortable until I met Sahra. I’ve always struggled to really let myself open up, worried about what people might think if they saw or heard me talking about my life. But honestly, it’s been the best thing I’ve done. Sahra has gently pulled me back into the world after feeling lower than I’ve ever been. I’d go as far as saying I’m lucky I took that step out of the dark hole that no one else could help me with in the past. I’m already looking forward to my next appointment’’

    Client testimonial