SUTHERLAND SHIRE · ILLAWONG, NSWSupport for people who are tired of holding everything together.
Counselling for adults navigating anxiety, burnout, ADHD, emotional overwhelm, or the pressure of always being the strong one.WELCOME TO MINDNEST COUNSELLING
The way I work
I’m Sonya, and I know reaching out can feel like a big step.
Most people do not come to counselling with a neat explanation of what is wrong. They come because something has started to feel too much, too heavy, or too hard to keep managing on their own.
You might be anxious, burnt out, overthinking everything, or struggling with panic, boundaries, low self-esteem or ADHD. Sometimes it is months or years of pushing through before you realise something needs to change.
At Mindnest Counselling, we start with what has been happening for you. I will listen properly, ask honest questions, and help you make sense of the patterns, pressure, and emotions underneath it all.
My approach is empathetic, practical and straight-talking. I will not just sit quietly while you try to work it all out on your own. I will work with you to understand what is going on, ask honest questions, and find practical steps forward that feel realistic for your life.
ACA-Registered Counsellor
Emergency Services Background
ADHD & Neurodiversity
Anxiety & Stress Support
Why I work this way
Before becoming a counsellor, I worked as a police officer in emergency services. I entered that work because I wanted to help people, and while I was able to do that, I found myself wanting to offer support in a more personal and ongoing way.
That experience shaped the way I work with clients today. I understand that people often carry far more than others realise, and that the right support during difficult times can make a real difference.
I can sit with the hard stuff. You do not need to protect me from your story or have everything neatly explained before you come in. I will work with you to make sense of what has been happening and support you with practical, evidence-based strategies to move forward.
I also facilitate government-funded workshops relating to anxiety, which keeps my work grounded in the real challenges people are facing and the tools that can help in everyday life.
Counselling Services
Individual Counselling
One-on-one sessions tailored to you. Work through anxiety, stress, life changes and personal challenges in a supportive, safe space.
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Couples Counselling
Rebuild connection and communication. Navigate conflict, rebuild trust and find a stronger path forward — together.
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Child & Adolescent
Compassionate support for young people navigating emotional, social and behavioural challenges during key development stages.
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Stress & Burnout
Practical tools to help you recover from burnout and reclaim balance, purpose and a renewed sense of wellbeing.
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Anxiety Counselling
Practical support to help you manage anxiety, ease overwhelming thoughts, and feel more in control day to day.
Explore →Not sure where to start?
You don't need to have everything figured out. We can start with what's been feeling hardest lately.
Book a Session Get in TouchHOW IT WORKS
Getting started
is simple.
Taking the first step is often the hardest part. Here's what to expect.
Reach Out
Book a confidential session online or send a message. No pressure — just a warm, welcoming first step at your own pace.
Your First Session
We'll talk through what's brought you here and what you'd like to work on. Everything happens at your own pace, on your terms.
Find a Way Forward
Together we work towards clarity, confidence and meaningful change — with tools you can carry into everyday life.
What our customers say
Kind words from Mindnest clients
"Mindnest Counselling provides a calm and supportive environment. The sessions are thoughtful, professional and focused on helping people better understand their experiences. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a counsellor in the Sutherland Shire."
"From the very first session I felt comfortable, listened to and genuinely supported. The guidance I received was thoughtful, practical and helped me gain clarity. It never felt rushed and I always left each session feeling lighter and more empowered."
"I am so grateful to have Sonya on my journey as my support. From the moment I met her, she made me feel calm, supported and connected. Always puts me at ease with continuous nurture and care. Can not recommend Sonya enough."
"She is thoughtful and relatable. Other therapists have felt very one dimensional — I feel that Sonya is a real person with real life experiences and real emotion. I'm always in awe of the breakthroughs I have working with her."
"Sonya immediately put me at ease within the first few minutes of meeting. She is very insightful and talks to you on your level — she'll tell you what you need to hear with compassion and understanding."
"Super easy to talk to and really helped me work through some things I'd been struggling with for a while. I always felt comfortable and understood during our sessions. If you're looking for someone who listens, I'd definitely recommend."
"Sonya is very thoughtful and demonstrates a lot of empathy, which made me feel truly understood and supported. I always leave our counselling sessions feeling better and clear-minded."
"I came to counselling feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to move forward. From the very first session, I felt truly heard and supported. My counsellor created a safe and non-judgmental space where I could open up at my own pace."
"Sonia is so kind and down to earth, it honestly just feels like talking to someone who really gets it. I always leave our sessions feeling lighter and a bit more like myself. I'm really grateful I found her."
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently
Asked
Questions.
If you don't find what you need here, please reach out directly. I'm happy to answer questions before you book.
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I support individuals and couples with relationship challenges, anxiety, stress, burnout, life transitions, emotional regulation, self-esteem and trauma. If you're unsure, reach out for a confidential chat — no obligation.
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You can book online via the button on this page, or send a direct message. I'll respond promptly to confirm your appointment and answer any questions.
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Absolutely. Confidentiality is a cornerstone of counselling. Everything you share stays between us, with the very limited exceptions required by law — such as immediate risk of harm.
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I ask for at least 48 hours notice to cancel or reschedule. Late cancellations or no-shows may incur a fee. Full details are provided at booking.
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Yes. Online sessions via video call are available for those who prefer it or can't attend in person. The same warm, compassionate approach applies wherever you are.
