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Why Choose Me

My Lived Experience and Unique Perspective as a Social Worker

Sofia Kouznetsova

Unfortunately, one of my own early experiences with counselling as a teenager was highly negative. ... I became disillusioned with the idea of therapy and did not seek help again until much later in life. ... However, this experience became a catalyst for me pursuing social work as a profession and has deeply informed the core values of my private practice.

As a social worker offering counselling services, I bring a unique perspective to therapy, drawing from my deep understanding of social determinants of health and human behaviour. My expertise lies in providing holistic support that considers the broader societal influences on mental wellbeing. In addition to this, my own lived experience informs my practice, allowing me to empathise with clients on a personal level and understand the challenges they may be facing.

Unfortunately, one of my own early experiences with counselling as a teenager was highly negative. While I believe my psychologist at the time spoke out of ignorance rather than malicious intent, having a core part of my identity and lived experience invalidated by a professional after I had shared something deeply vulnerable left me feeling more alone in my pain than ever. I became disillusioned with the idea of therapy and did not seek help again until much later in life.

However, this experience became a catalyst for me pursuing social work as a profession and has deeply informed the core values of my private practice. Through my journey, I have gained valuable insights into resilience, recovery, and the importance of seeking support from someone who understands.

This personal understanding enriches my approach to counselling, fostering a deeper connection with clients and enhancing the effectiveness of our therapeutic work together. It informs my focus on delivering tailored counselling services that address the individual needs and circumstances of each client. Working from person-centred approach, I prioritise your wellbeing above all else, working collaboratively to develop individualised treatment plans that empower you to achieve your goals.

I have undertaken additional training in relationship counselling and approaches extending beyond traditional cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), so that I can better address and more flexibly adapt to diverse client needs. I draw on a range of therapeutic techniques and interventions designed to support you through life's challenges and promote resilience. My practice is constantly evolving as I learn from my professional colleagues, emerging research, evidence base for best practice, and lived experience knowledge.

By choosing me as your social worker and counsellor, you can trust that you will receive compassionate and effective support, grounded in evidence-based practice and delivered with professionalism and care. I would be honoured to walk alongside you and support you in your journey towards healing and personal growth.

Sofia Kouznetsova Counselling acknowledges the Whadjuk and Binjareb people of the Noongar nation as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the lands on which our organisation is located and where we conduct our business. We pay our respects to their ancestors and Elders, past and present. Sofia Kouznetsova Counselling is committed to honouring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ unique cultural and spiritual relationships to the land, waters and seas and their rich contribution to society.