Hi! I’m Angie, an experienced mental health & wellbeing professional based in Brisbane.
Having worked for 20+ years in a variety of capacities focusing on human and community development, I believe change occurs as people experience themselves as competent and capable of finding solutions for greater agency and contentment.
I work to achieve this end by honouring clients’ stories and struggles through curiosity and an unwavering belief that humans are inherently resourceful.
Before launching Commonfolk Therapy, I had been to a few rodeos - all driven by the burning question: ‘How can I best invest my energy to move the dial on a better world’?
I kicked off with the US Peace Corps in rural El Salvador, where I worked for over two years in the areas of small business development, civic/leadership development, and environmental sustainability. I then pursued a Masters of Science in Social Work from Columbia University (NYC), where I worked as a psychosocial intern at a health clinic.
After returning to Australia, I pursued a career in ethical investing, community finance, and corporate sustainability. Working at a macro level taught me that the health of our society and environment is directly correlated to the mental health of humans operating within the system - particularly those in leadership roles.
This experience led me to pursue a Master of Counselling with the hope of encouraging balanced and harmonious behaviour in myself, as well as in others.
My wheelhouse remains all things mental health, sustainability, courageous and connected leadership, social and economic justice, treading lightly on our Earth, working alongside people of integrity, and deliberate breathing.
Academic Qualifications & Professional Associations
Master of Counselling, University of Queensland
Master of Science in Social Work, Columbia University NYC
Bachelor of International Studies, University of New South Wales
Gottman Method Couples Therapy - Levels 1 & 2
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) - Externship
Member of Australian Counselling Association (ACA)
Member of Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW)
Why counselling?
I do this work because I have benefited enormously from doing personal therapy alongside supportive and knowledgeable mental health professionals. I also value connection and community. Sharing personal stories is vulnerable yet offers profound healing and a sense of connection as modern living places us a long way from fire and tribe. I find deep enrichment through collaborating with others to make sense of the world. In addition, I find humans to be fascinating. Engaging in work that explores the human mind scratches an intellectual itch and provides a sense of organising principles through which I view the world.
Finally, I value working in a capacity that encourages kindness and courage – my top values – and that inspires mutual growth.
Personal bits
When I’m not working you can find me recharging in nature, stretching on the mat (I practice and teach yoga), throwing paint on canvas, petting anyone’s dog who is patient enough to stop mid-walk, and searching for the ultimate bagel.
