Samara is an experienced counsellor and coach who offers compassionate, client-centred support to individuals navigating life’s challenges. Her approach is grounded in helping clients make sense of their experiences, explore meaningful solutions, and build emotional resilience to better manage life’s stressors. Samara frequently supports individuals dealing with anxiety, burnout, chronic stress, relationship difficulties, self-advocacy challenges, and the impact of chronic illness or health conditions that require lifestyle changes. With a professional background spanning mental health, addiction, public service, and disability support, Samara brings years of diverse experience to her therapeutic work. She has worked in child protection, where she supported vulnerable families in complex and high-pressure situations, and has provided direct care to neurodivergent clients and individuals with disability under the NDIS. These roles have shaped her understanding of the social and emotional strains that arise when people lack the right support systems—and have strengthened her commitment to inclusive, trauma-informed care. Samara draws from a range of therapeutic approaches—including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), solution-focused brief therapy, mindfulness, and person-centred therapy—to tailor her support to each individual’s unique needs. She also takes an integrative approach, recognising the vital connection between mind, body, and emotions. Her work acknowledges how different areas of life influence one another and shape overall well-being. Through a non-judgemental and collaborative process, Samara creates a safe space for clients to explore these connections, gain insight, and take meaningful steps forward.

Why the Spoony community matters to me

I’ve personally experienced chronic illness and have supported loved ones through severe mental and physical health challenges. Much of my professional work has also centred around supporting the disability and neurodivergent community. Because of this, I’ve seen firsthand the loneliness, confusion and strain, both emotional and physical, that can arise when there’s a lack of social connection or services that truly understand. Spoony is a brilliant platform that brings like-minded people together and offers a space for this connection and understanding, which I believe to be very valuable.

Qualifications

Bachelor of Psychological Science - Deakin University Diploma of Counselling - ACAP Diploma of Coaching - TLCC Certified Hypnotherapist - TLCC