About Helen Sharwood

Career history and experience

I have worked as a counsellor in diverse settings for more than 20 years and am a registered APS psychologist in private practice in Bowral.

Before commencing private practice, I counselled in schools, assisting adolescents and their families to manage issues such as: bullying, anxiety, depression, peer pressure and learning. I am also a qualified Yoga instructor.

My practice focuses on individual adults across a broad spectrum of the community. I work with a wide range of issues. My particular areas of expertise include executive stress, women’s issues (particularly those pertaining to work-life balance), conflict in interpersonal relationships, support for resetting age-stage life goals and support through loss of relationship (partner, family of origin) or bereavement.

Training clients in mindful awareness skills of how better to be ‘present in the moment’ is an integral part of my therapy; it can gradually promote change.

Personal statement

I place great value on the power of a collaborative therapeutic relationship where trust and respect are mutually engendered. I endeavour to create a non-judgmental client-centred environment where ongoing client feedback about the therapy process is encouraged.

I believe in clients’ ability to work through their issues and in their being able to make the right choices at the right times. I regard clients as experts in their own lives.

I find that the best results often flow when clients feel sufficiently empowered to choose their own agendas for our sessions. I am constantly touched by the courage of my clients to try out new ways to interact with the world. I delight when I hear reports that they are feeling better, often earlier than expected, and are able to enjoy life once again. As well-being grows, clients increasingly thrive.

I have an interest in Eastern philosophies. I enjoy travel, bushwalking, music, art and reading .

Professional qualifications

B.A.,Dip.Ed. (University of Sydney)

M.A. (Psychology) (Macquarie University)

Grad.Dip.Counselling (The Institute of Counselling)

Graduate 2 year Training Course in Buddhism and Psychotherapy (AABCAP)

I.Y.T.A. Teachers Training Certificate (International Yoga Teachers’ Association)

Professional memberships

MAPS (Member of Australian Psychological Society)