SUTHERLAND SHIRE · ILLAWONG, NSW
Counselling in the
Sutherland Shire & Online
Support you can trust.
Warm, supportive counselling for individuals and couples navigating relationship challenges, anxiety, stress and life transitions — in a safe and confidential environment.
"Many of my clients come to counselling feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to start. Together we work towards clarity, confidence and meaningful change."
SONYA THOMPSON · COUNSELLOR, MINDNEST COUNSELLING
ABOUT SONYACounsellor 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.
Before becoming a counsellor, I worked in emergency services as a police officer, supporting individuals through complex and high-stress situations. This gives me a deep 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.
You're welcome to reach out for a confidential chat.
ACA-Registered Counsellor
Trauma-Informed Practice
Safe & Confidential
Individual & Couples Sessions
Relationship and couples challenges
Anxiety and stress
Life transitions and burnout
Emotional regulation and self-esteem
Trauma and high-pressure experiences
Child and adolescent support
ADHD support
Professional Experience
In addition to private counselling, I facilitate anxiety workshops for parents and children in collaboration with a Sydney-based psychology practice, Proactive Psychology.
This allows me to support families in real-world settings and stay closely connected to the challenges individuals and parents face.
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.
Begin Healing
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.
READY TO BEGIN?
Take the first
step today.
Reaching out is one of the bravest things you can do. Book a confidential session — no pressure, no judgement, just compassionate support.
Counselling support for clients across Illawong, Menai, Bangor, Sutherland, Engadine, Jannali and Padstow.