Counselling in the Sutherland Shire & Online
Compassionate counselling. Support you can trust.
Mindnest Counselling offers warm, supportive counselling in Sutherland Shire for individuals and couples. We provide support for relationship and couples challenges, anxiety, stress and life transitions in a safe and confidential environment.
Counsellor in the Sutherland Shire, Based in Illawong
Hi, I’m Sonya.
I offer warm, supportive counselling in the Sutherland Shire for individuals and couples navigating relationship challenges, anxiety, stress and life transitions.
I have experience working with a wide range of challenges including relationship difficulties, anxiety, stress, trauma and life transitions. Before becoming a counsellor, I worked in high-pressure environments supporting individuals through complex and demanding situations, giving me a strong understanding of how overwhelming life can feel.
My approach is compassionate, practical and tailored to your needs. I focus on helping you feel heard, supported and equipped with tools to move forward with greater clarity and confidence.
If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or facing challenges in your relationships, you don’t have to go through it alone.
Areas I Can Help With
Many of my clients come to counselling feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to start, and together we work towards clarity, confidence and meaningful change.
• Relationship and couples challenges
• Anxiety and stress
• Life transitions and burnout
• Emotional regulation and self-esteem
• Trauma and high-pressure experiences
Experience & Approach
• ACA-registered counsellor
• Experience supporting individuals in high-pressure and crisis environments
• Trauma-informed and evidence-based approach
• Practical strategies you can apply in everyday life
You’re welcome to reach out for a confidential chat.
Counselling Services.
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Individual
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Couples
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Child & Adolescent
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Stress & Burnout
Trusted Counselling in the Sutherland Shire
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“I have had an extremely positive experience in my therapy sessions with Sonya. She is thoughtful, relatable, and brings real compassion and understanding. I’ve experienced meaningful breakthroughs and would highly recommend her for individual or couples counselling.”
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“I found it difficult to find a professional I could really connect with, but Sonya immediately put me at ease. She is insightful, compassionate, and speaks to you on your level. The impact has been felt in my day-to-day life.”
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“Super easy to talk to and incredibly supportive. I always felt comfortable and understood during sessions and left each one feeling lighter. If you’re looking for someone kind, down-to-earth, and genuinely present, I’d highly recommend Mindnest Counselling.”
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Sessions available in person at Illawong, or online anywhere in Australia.
All sessions are strictly confidential & follow the Australian Counselling Association’s Code of Ethics.
QUALIFICATIONS & MEMBERSHIP
Bachelor of Counselling - Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors (AIPC)
Diploma of Counselling – Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors (AIPC)
Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI) – Completed Training
Member – Australian Counselling Association (ACA)
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Bookings can be made online. Should you have any enquiries, please do not hesitate to reach out by phone or email.
Phone: 0451 295 461
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Individual session: 50 minutes $110
Couple session: 50 minutes $165
Free 15-Minute Consultation: If you’re unsure whether therapy is right for you, I offer a complimentary 15-minute consultation.
This is a no-obligation, confidential chat to discuss your needs and see if we’re a good fit before booking a full session.
Private Health Insurance
Mindnest Counselling is a registered provider with NIB and BUPA.
Clients with eligible extras cover may be able to claim a rebate for counselling sessions.
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Payments via Credit Card or Bank Transfer
Payment can be made before or at the start of the session. This helps keep your booking secure and ensures your session runs smoothly.
If you have questions about whether counselling is the right fit, please reach out — I’d be happy to chat.
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Life happens — if you need to cancel or reschedule, please give at least 24 hours’ notice.
Late cancellations or missed appointments may incur a fee, and I appreciate you letting me know as soon as possible.
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Your privacy and confidentiality are very important to me.
All sessions are strictly confidential, and your personal information is handled with care and in line with professional ethical standards.
Contact us.
Counselling support for clients across Illawong, Menai, Bangor, Sutherland, Engadine, Jannali and Padstow.