top of page
Andrew Petersen Counselling Holistically

ANDREW
PETERSEN

Andrew Practices in the Blue Mountains

My Story

 

Reflecting on my past, I recognise that the journey to where I am today has been one marked by significant challenges and profound learning. My early years were shadowed by experiences that tested my spirit; I faced bullying and belittlement that left me grappling with low self-esteem and a tendency to please others at my own expense. The tragic loss of my brother to suicide in my late teens was a pivotal moment that shattered my world yet also ignited a deep desire within me to seek understanding and purpose in life. I found a wonderful therapist, who assisted me develop healthier roles within, moving forward in life. My interest in personal growth became my focus, guiding me through a landscape of trials and discoveries, each step a lesson in resilience and growth.

 

Throughout my life I looked into, and trained in, many different modalities of personal development. Studied psychology @ Macquarie University, and now completed certification as a counsellor. My current studies is undegraduate Degree in Counselling @ Torrens University, and working towards certification as an accedited Psychodramatist, at The Psychodrama training Institute, Sydney Campus.

 

Life has thrown me many challenges, some devastating, as it is for all of us. Fortunately, having developed skills of embracing compassion, understanding, and self-care, I've journeyed back to a sense of wholeness and purpose. Reconnecting with the joy of living, which is our natural state, is what counselling has helped me re-connect with.

 

Whatever the area of concern for you at the moment, counselling is a safe place to explore the issues you are dealing with, and develop new ways, more life enhancing ways, in dealing with the problems that you haven’t been able to resolve on your own. One thing I learnt is that healthy change in my life has not come from willpower, or simple positive thinking, but through reaching out to healthy people, who have the empathy, caring and capacity to assist me work through my issues. I can’t do it in isolation. We are relational creatures. It is through therapeutic relationships that personal growth occurs.

Andrew Petersen is an experienced counsellor and

coach located in the Blue Mountains, Australia.

Counselling Holistically is a professional counselling service based in the Blue Mountains NSW Australia. Andrew Petersen has a focus on adult relationships, providing insight, compassion and growth. Andrew believes in the importance of providing a supportive, safe and non-judgmental environment where individuals can feel heard and understood.

 

Andrew offers both local in-person sessions and online consultations using Zoom. 

Andrew's approach to counselling is holistic, taking into account the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of a person. He believes in working collaboratively with clients to identify their goals and develop a plan to achieve them. Andrew has experience working with a range of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, anger, self-esteem, eco-anxiety (climate change distress), and relationship difficulties.

Qualifications

Andrew Petersen's diverse qualifications contribute to his rich expertise in the field of counselling, each bringing a unique dimension to his practice.

  • Diploma of Counselling (DipCouns):

This foundational qualification has equipped Andrew with a solid understanding of the core principles of counselling. It has provided him with the essential skills and knowledge required for effective therapeutic communication, empathy, and understanding diverse client needs. This diploma has laid the groundwork for his proficiency in various counselling methodologies and approaches, making him adept at handling a wide range of emotional and psychological issues.

  • Certificate of Trauma Informed Coaching (CertTIC): 

Specialised training in trauma-informed coaching significantly enriches Andrew's counselling practice, particularly in dealing with clients who have experienced trauma. This certification underscores his expertise in creating a safe and supportive therapeutic environment, crucial for clients dealing with trauma. It also signifies his understanding of how trauma impacts mental health and relationships, enabling him to provide tailored and sensitive care.

  • Certified Professional Life Coach (CPLC):

As a Certified Professional Life Coach, Andrew incorporates a goal-oriented and holistic approach to counselling. This qualification complements his counselling skills by adding a dimension of personal development and proactive goal setting. It allows him to assist clients not only in overcoming their challenges but also in pursuing personal growth, setting life goals, and developing strategies to achieve them.

  • Advanced Diploma of Business (AdvDipBus):

While not directly related to counselling, this qualification enhances Andrew's ability to manage and grow his counseling practice effectively. It contributes to his understanding of the business aspects of running a private practice, including client relations, marketing, and ethical business practices. This broader perspective ensures a professional and sustainable approach to offering counseling services.

  • Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (Cert IV T&A or CIVT&A): 

This certification demonstrates Andrew's capability in educating and training others, a skill that translates well into the counselling environment. It underlines his ability to assess client needs accurately, develop effective therapeutic plans, and provide guidance in a clear, understandable manner. This skill set is crucial in helping clients learn and apply new coping strategies and insights gained during therapy.

Together, these qualifications form a comprehensive skill set, allowing Andrew to offer a nuanced, empathetic, and effective counselling service. His training covers a broad spectrum of therapeutic techniques, business acumen, educational skills, trauma-informed practices, and life coaching, all contributing to his proficiency as a counsellor.

Andrew believes in continued education and is currently completing his degree in counselling and life-long training in the psychodrama modalities such as inner-child work, sociodrama, experiential therapy, action methods and role training.

BOOK A CONSULTATION IN-PERSON OR VIA ZOOM

MANAGE YOUR APPOINTMENTS EASILY

Book Online – Simple and Accessible
Embarking on your journey to holistic wellbeing has never been easier. With Counselling Holistically, you can conveniently book your appointments online. Visit our user-friendly website, select a suitable time and service, and secure your session in just a few clicks. Our online booking system is designed to provide you with a seamless experience, ensuring that your path to wellness begins on a stress-free note.

Reminders to Keep You on Track
We understand that life can be busy, which is why we offer helpful appointment reminders. Once you've booked your session, you'll receive a confirmation email followed by timely reminders as your appointment approaches. These gentle nudges ensure that you never miss an important step in your wellness journey.

Contact Form - We're Here to Listen
Have questions or need assistance? Our online contact form is available 24/7. Simply fill in your details and queries, and our responsive team will get back to you promptly. We are committed to providing you with the support and information you need, whenever you need it.

View Terms and Conditions - Transparency at Your Fingertips
We believe in complete transparency. Our Terms and Conditions are easily accessible on our website (simply click the underlined link above), providing you with clear information about our services, policies, and what you can expect from your experience with Counselling Holistically.

View Full Disclaimer - Make Sure You Understand our Disclaimer

The information provided by COUNSELLING HOLISTICALLY, including but not limited to, information provided during counseling sessions, on our website, in printed material, or through other means, is for general information and educational purposes only. It is not intended to be and should not be taken as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Pay Online – Secure and Convenient
For your convenience, payment for sessions can be made online at the time of booking. Our secure payment system ensures that your transaction is safe and hassle-free, allowing you to focus fully on your counselling sessions without the worry of payment logistics.

Manage Your Bookings 
By registering and logging into your account on our website, you gain full control over your appointments. You can easily manage your bookings, reschedule if something comes up, or cancel if necessary (with a minimum of 24 hours notice). This feature provides you with the flexibility to adapt your appointments to suit your changing schedule, ensuring that your counselling sessions align with your lifestyle.

Re-Schedule and Cancel with Ease
Life is unpredictable, and we understand that. If you need to re-schedule or cancel an appointment, you can do so effortlessly through your online account (with a minimum of 24 hours notice). Our system is designed to be intuitive and user-friendly, allowing you to make changes to your appointments with just a few clicks.

At Counselling Holistically, we are committed to making your experience as smooth and supportive as possible. Register today to start managing your appointments with ease and embark on a fulfilling journey to holistic health and wellness.

bottom of page