Cheryl, a registered psychologist and relationship coach, has worked in the field of relationship education and counselling for 25+ years. Cheryl has a sincere and genuine desire to assist individuals and couples in creating stronger, healthier and more satisfying relationships. Described by both clients and colleagues alike as warm, open, personable and compassionate, Cheryl’s relaxed style promotes a comfortable, yet safe, environment within which to explore your relationship issues.
Cheryl’s primary areas of interest are relationship and family psychology. Because Cheryl trained directly under the tutelage of Drs John & Julie Gottman in the Gottman Method Couples Therapy she has an up-to-date, evidence-based approach to her work with clients. She also draws upon key relationship therapies including emotion-focused, attachment, and psycho-dynamic.
Importantly, Cheryl’s understanding of the connection between psychological experience (for example depression, anxiety and anger) and relational problems informs her holistic approach which gently and effectively supports both individuals and couples in their quest to reduce their emotional pain.
Cheryl provides counselling in all areas of life and relationship including: remaining connected (or recapturing the ‘spark’); managing conflict; dealing with betrayal and loss of trust; negotiating parenting-hood and blended/step-families; re-partnering and rebuilding after separation; and navigating the potential ‘minefield’ of extended family. Cheryl also brings a practical focus to her work in the area of communication skills training, assertiveness coaching, and anger management.
Cheryl is a Member of the Australian Psychological Society and is recognised as a leading practitioner in the field of relationship counselling. She served over a number of years on several relationship community bodies including: the editorial advisory board of ‘Threshold’ (Australia’s leading journal of marriage & relationship education) and the National Committee of Marriage and Relationship Educators (MAREAA).
Prior to entering full-time private practice Cheryl was employed for 8 years as the Manager, Relationship Education at LifeWorks Relationship Education & Counselling Services, one of Victoria’s largest not-for-profit relationship agencies. Cheryl welcomes telephone and skype counselling for clients who prefer these modalities, or for whom attending face-to-face sessions is problematic.
