meet jemma

M. Child Play Therapy
M. Social Work
B. Arts (Cultural Studies)

As a social worker, play therapist and EMDR therapist, I work with individual as a whole, seeking to understand their experience in the context of their environment. I believe that the best outcomes are achieved when we engage with and resource the systems around each of us - our family, school and community. 

At the heart of my practice is a belief and awareness that change and healing come through connections and relationships. We cannot heal without being connected, seen and heard. This includes connecting to our own bodies, ourselves, our loved ones and our communities.

Having worked in international social work for a number of years, I have a particular passion for supporting children and families from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. My experience spans:

  • refugee and migrant children and families

  • children and youth, including those in out-of-home-care

  • individual and group parent support services including Circle of Security

  • survivors of sexual and gender-based violence including human trafficking

  • young people living with disabilities

I practice within the Australian Association of Social Workers Code of Ethics and the EMDR International Association’s Professional Code of Conduct. I maintain regular supervision to support my practice. Feedback, concerns or complaints welcome at any time.

my therapeutic approach

“Safety is not the absence of threat, it is the presence of connection”

-Gabor Maté

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My therapeutic approach has foundations in attachment theory and neurobiology of trauma and is grounded in strengths-based and trauma-informed practice.  This is done through supporting and (re)building safety within the body, self and network. It ensures clients are active participants in their therapeutic sessions where they have choices and where power is shared with the counsellor/therapist. Trust is also fundamental in trauma-informed practice, building trust in the therapeutic relationship to hold the client as they reestablish trust within themselves and with other people. It is essential that clients experience a sense of empowerment in the sessions that can then be transferred into their lives outside of counseling. 

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I aim to meet clients in therapy wherever they are, to support them to have their needs met in a way that allows them to feel empowered and fully themselves.

You are welcome to be as you are.