Rhi Gibson – Trauma Informed Counselling
Hi, I’m Rhi, a registered social worker with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) and mental health specialist. I provide counselling therapy with the LGBTQA+ community, people with mental health conditions and people with a disability. I am a gender affirming and neurodivergent affirming therapist. I am also a professional supervisor and traditional martial arts teacher.
AASW accredited social worker 487620
LGBTQA+
People from the LGBTQA+ community experience additional barriers of discrimination and prejudice in society such as homophobia, transphobia, cisgenderism and heterosexism. Discrimination and stigma can be experienced across multiple domains of an individuals life, from family relationships to health care and other services and social structures.
The discrimination and prejudice that are experienced increase the risk of mental health conditions, suicide and drug and alcohol problems. Additionally, domestic and family violence is often under reported and access to services can be difficult for people from the LGBTQA+ community. I have a particular interest and experience in working alongside the LGBTQA+ community, including young people from 12 years of age.
Mental Health & Disability
With over 25 years of experience, I specialise in supporting individuals with complex mental health conditions, co-occurring disabilities, and psychosocial challenges. I am passionate about walking alongside people facing mental health and disability issues, understanding how chronic health problems often affect overall well-being.
I have a strong interest in mental wellbeing and helping clients integrate their lived experiences in meaningful ways. I am formally trained in focussed psychological strategies to support therapeutic progress. Additionally, I have in-depth knowledge of the NDIS, including safety planning and suicide risk assessment. My expertise especially supports queer and gender-diverse individuals navigating mental health and disability.
My Approach
My approach is non-pathologising, collaborative, non-judgemental, respectful, professional and empathetic. My focus is getting to know you as the unique individual you are, through an informal conversation style of counselling. I can provide either a targeted series of sessions or longer term support, depending on what outcomes you are hoping to achieve.
As humans everyone struggles from time to time, there might be something that does not feel quite right and you are not sure what to do or how to change. Seeking additional support from a trained counsellor, who is external from your friends and family, can help alleviate some of the current stress you might be experiencing in a safe and confidential space. Being heard and listened to is important, you are not alone.
Therapeutic Modalities
I have a Masters of Social Work and a Bachelor of Human Services. With a commitment to an anti-oppressive approach, I centre you as the expert of your own life, whilst I draw on a variety of therapeutic modalities tailored for you, including:
- Recovery Oriented Practice (ROP)
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
- Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)
- Strength-Based Practice
- Person-Centred Therapy
- Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)
- Motivational Interviewing (MI)
- Trauma-Informed Practice (TIP)
- Somatic Modalities
Trauma-Informed Counselling:
✅ Safety – Creating a secure and supportive space.
✅ Trustworthiness – Transparent and ethical practice.
✅ Collaboration – You are the expert in your own life.
✅ Empowerment – Strength-based and affirming care.
✅ Choice – Respecting your autonomy and decisions.
✅ Diversity & Inclusion – Recognising and respecting intersectionality.