Cara Counselling in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia | Counsellor

Cara Counselling

Locality: Brisbane, Queensland, Australia

Phone: +61 423 726 620

Address: Enoggera 4051 Brisbane, QLD, Australia

Website: https://www.caracounselling.com.au

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25.01.2022 And it's finished! Enoggera office ready and receiving clients today, a bit ahead of schedule. Delighted with my new 'office in a garage' The Stafford office is still open, until the end of August, and I'll continue to offer Zoom appointments and, of course, Walk and Talk sessions. Happy days

25.01.2022 Im a big fan of practising a pause - taking time to pause, slow down, and calm. Sometimes that can be just a few minutes of deep breathing or a grounding exercise to help deal with something in the here and now. Or, try some of these suggestions, based on a recent read of Being magazine. 1. Spend time in nature - I love getting clients out in nature, through Walk and Talk Counselling. I also love to spend time outdoors myself, just focusing on what I can see and hear. 2.... Cook with love - take time to make a favourite or try a new recipe, and really focus on the tastes, textures and scents in the kitchen. 3. Moving meditation - complete four or five sun salutes (or any other flowing movements if youre not familiar with yoga). Focus on your breath and the sensations you feel. 4. Power down - turn off all devices an hour before going to bed - and no phones, iPads etc in the bedroom. 5. Quiet time - spend some time in silence - dont look at your phone, or talk to anyone - instead walk, do some mindfulness, sit outside or simply rest. Try an hour, two hours, or a morning if you can. Next week - 5 more suggestions, with a focus on stillness.

23.01.2022 And its finished! Enoggera office ready and receiving clients today, a bit ahead of schedule. Delighted with my new office in a garage The Stafford office is still open, until the end of August, and Ill continue to offer Zoom appointments and, of course, Walk and Talk sessions. Happy days

23.01.2022 This mornings Walk and Talk wildlife spotting; one sleepy possum

22.01.2022 Continuing the power of a pause. Last week I shared 5 ways to slow down; this week 5 suggestions on how to get still (again based on a piece in Being magazine). 1. Meditation - most of my clients know that mindfulness is one of my core strategies for dealing with anxiety and other issues. Try a mindfulness app to get started. 2. Rest - take 5 minutes to relax, maybe lie down - maybe sit with your eyes closed, rest your head on your arms if youre at a desk - and just be s...till. 3. Watch the sunrise - or sit on a beach listening to the waves, or sit at Kedron Brook and listen to the water - spend time being still in nature. 4. Fully focus on connecting with someone - whether its during a face to face chat or a phone call; completely pay attention to the other person, and listen to them without distractions (eg phone) or without being focused on how youll respond - just listen. 5. Breathe - spend a minute breathing slowly; in through your nose and out through your mouth. Are there other ways you find stillness that I havent covered? Always happy to find new strategies :)

22.01.2022 I started drafting a blog about miscarriage a few months ago, sharing a bit of our miscarriage story with the aim of helping to chip away at the silence that often comes with early pregnancy loss. With today being International Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day, it seemed like a good time to finish the blog and share our story. I hope it helps with opening up the discussion and, if you've experienced a loss, I'm so sorry this happened to you, Louise.

22.01.2022 Beautiful afternoon on Kedron Brook. Were getting perfect weather for Walking and Talking

22.01.2022 Braving the rain, this morning’s walk and talk turned out to be a perfect opportunity for awareness and grounding, with beautiful birds and colours to see, alternating sun, rain and breezes on the skin, and that gorgeous scent that comes after the rain. Wonderful

21.01.2022 Have so still walking and talking Amazing to see how much water is in Kedron Brook, and looking forward to checking out Enoggera Creek tomorrow. (Assuming it’s safe; if it’s storming we stay indoors!)

21.01.2022 Aww my clients are the best! I took some banana bread in to work this morning, and came home with this scrumptious treat! Thanks

21.01.2022 I talk a lot about values/strengths and how they can help you see what direction to go in. So I love this from Dr Happy; seems to perfectly sum up values, goals and grounding.

21.01.2022 I was looking back at some photos from the year, and thought I'd share this one. The very special moment when a fledgling Tawny Frogmouth visited the Cara Counselling office. He hung around for about 15 minutes then took off - I think of him when I hear a Frogmouth in our neighbourhood and like to think that he's going well

21.01.2022 Doing a bit of armchair travel this evening, and looking back through photos. I had forgotten these, taken on a flight to Ireland last year. Im sure there is something profound in the pattern created by this road in Dubai, maybe about feeling that youre going in circles but then realising youre on the right track? And I love the colours in the next photo, taken between Dubai and Dublin. Its nice to just sit and enjoy sometimes!

20.01.2022 I took myself out for a lunchtime walk in the rain today. It was wonderful plenty of colours and critters to spot, and I love that feeling of freshness in nature after the rain What’s your favourite walking weather?

19.01.2022 Almost two weeks of social distancing done for my little family. Sometimes I feel that I have less time now, with homeschooling, and sometime I pick up my crochet and find my flow and time passes where I forget everything else! Finding an activity that you get so engrossed in that you lose track of time is such good stress relief - reading, music puzzles, baking, cooking, art, gardening- all things we can enjoy at home. Any favourites that Ive missed?

19.01.2022 I love Brené Brown; she has a remarkable way of opening up a thought or idea. I think this one is timely in advance of RUOK day next week, as a time we give more thought to asking for or offering help.

18.01.2022 Im having a few days away with the kids for school holidays, and am loving getting out walking on the beach each day! Im also looking forward to being back in the office later this week, and getting out on Kedron Brook with some walk and talk clients. Heres my last blog, all about the Walk and Talk. https://www.caracounselling.com.au//walking-and-talking-in

17.01.2022 This Thursday, 10 September, is RUOK Day. If youre concerned about someone and not sure where to start or what to say, the RUOK.org.au website has tips, and you can now even roleplay with Google!! Say Hey Google, talk to RUOK mate to get started. And of course, Im always happy to have a chat if youre feeling a bit stuck.

17.01.2022 Ready to Walk and Talk on a beautiful day

16.01.2022 Sharing this one from Suited to Success. I often suggest that clients go easy on themselves; this says it so much better

16.01.2022 Its been a while since I posted about cooking, but I like to try at least one new recipe each month. I do this partly to encourage the kids to try different foods, but mainly because I enjoy cooking Today is not really a new new recipe; but on this grey afternoon I was inspired by a friend to try a fresh take on an old favourite, by adding a streusel topping to my banana bread. Maybe tomorrow mornings Cara Counselling clients will get some for morning tea

16.01.2022 Julys blog talks about the decision to build the new Cara Counselling office at my house in Enoggera, with some help from my values. And some thoughts on how values can help you with making decisions and taking action.

16.01.2022 Wow! I can gaze at this stunning sunflower for ages, picking out different colours and patterns. Great for the 5 things I can see part of the 5-4-3-2-1 exercise! Nature is amazing

16.01.2022 This is a bit like the 5-4-3-2-1 exercise I talk about; with some fabulous sounds of nature to listen to. Perhaps imagine being in the Alaskan wilderness (without the fear of getting too close to the wolves for comfort)! Take a few deep breaths and visualise your lungs feeling with crisp clean air. Imagine the feeling of snow underfoot, and the chill of the air. Enjoy

15.01.2022 I love this Lets all be saucy I highly recommend a bit of belly breathing as a technique I use to slow down anger. As for letting go of grudges ... well thats a work in progress for me but I reckon Im getting there

15.01.2022 Got lots of little jobs done at the weekend and, appropriately, found this inspiring to-do list while tidying up

15.01.2022 Gratitude is good for us And today I am so very grateful to the lady at the post office who called me a young lady!! Its also a lovely reminder that a small act of kindness can totally make someones day What are you grateful for today?

14.01.2022 Im still absorbing the extra information I got from this British Psychological Society webinar over the weekend. I love taking counselling outside, and the webinar further supported the advantages for clients in terms of: Restoration Removing boundaries Supporting new ways of thinking Increasing problem solving and creativity ... Feeling grounded and anchored Looking forward to more Walk and Talks this week See more

14.01.2022 For my latest blog Im looking at Mindfulness, how it can help with anxiety, and some ideas on getting started, including some strategies that are trending right now. As ever, please get in touch or comment below with any thoughts or questions. Anxiety is a key focus area for Cara Counselling, so always happy to help. Thanks, Louise

13.01.2022 It’s almost October, time for National Mental Health Month 2020. This year I’m doing the Black Dog Institute ‘One Foot Forward’ walk, and you can help me get moving I’m offering a Free 60 minute Walk and Talk counselling session for each week of October. If you fancy giving counselling in the great outdoors a go, get in touch for a free 60 minute Walk and Talk appointment - no strings attached! Terms & Conditions One free Walk and Talk per person No obligation to book furth...er appointments I’m offering a total of 5 free Walk and Talks - date & time will be scheduled to suit your needs Counselling contract to be completed and signed prior to appointment - primarily focusses on my obligations around confidentiality and privacy. See more

13.01.2022 I'm a big fan of 'practising a pause' - taking time to pause, slow down, and calm. Sometimes that can be just a few minutes of deep breathing or a grounding exercise to help deal with something in the here and now. Or, try some of these suggestions, based on a recent read of Being magazine. 1. Spend time in nature - I love getting clients out in nature, through Walk and Talk Counselling. I also love to spend time outdoors myself, just focusing on what I can see and hear. 2.... Cook with love - take time to make a favourite or try a new recipe, and really focus on the tastes, textures and scents in the kitchen. 3. Moving meditation - complete four or five sun salutes (or any other flowing movements if you're not familiar with yoga). Focus on your breath and the sensations you feel. 4. Power down - turn off all devices an hour before going to bed - and no phones, iPads etc in the bedroom. 5. Quiet time - spend some time in silence - don't look at your phone, or talk to anyone - instead walk, do some mindfulness, sit outside or simply rest. Try an hour, two hours, or a morning if you can. Next week - 5 more suggestions, with a focus on stillness.

12.01.2022 Thanks to everyone who was part of my 2020. And I hope the New Year brings you new opportunities to live your values, even in small ways, every day

12.01.2022 Continuing the 'power of a pause'. Last week I shared 5 ways to slow down; this week 5 suggestions on how to get still (again based on a piece in Being magazine). 1. Meditation - most of my clients know that mindfulness is one of my core strategies for dealing with anxiety and other issues. Try a mindfulness app to get started. 2. Rest - take 5 minutes to relax, maybe lie down - maybe sit with your eyes closed, rest your head on your arms if you're at a desk - and just be s...till. 3. Watch the sunrise - or sit on a beach listening to the waves, or sit at Kedron Brook and listen to the water - spend time being still in nature. 4. Fully focus on connecting with someone - whether its during a face to face chat or a phone call; completely pay attention to the other person, and listen to them without distractions (eg phone) or without being focused on how you'll respond - just listen. 5. Breathe - spend a minute breathing slowly; in through your nose and out through your mouth. Are there other ways you find stillness that I haven't covered? Always happy to find new strategies :)

12.01.2022 Good way to start the week

12.01.2022 Are you stuck with what to say after RUOK? Have concerns about someone, or need some help yourself? This blog on self-care, and how it helps in supporting others, includes some ideas on what to say, and what not to say. And if youd like a chat, I offer free 30 minute phone counselling sessions - no strings attached. You can book online through the website, or give me a call / email to arrange a time. https://www.caracounselling.com.au//self-care-and-how-it-h

12.01.2022 I love Bren Brown; she has a remarkable way of opening up a thought or idea. I think this one is timely in advance of RUOK day next week, as a time we give more thought to asking for or offering help.

11.01.2022 Perfect weather for walking, talking, and nature spotting.

11.01.2022 Theres a lot of stress, uncertainty and anxiety around at the moment, so Id like to share some tips to help manage anxiety. 1. I get the irony of saying this on Facebook, but try to limit your intake of news and social media. To keep up to date, pick one reputable news source, and look at the news just once a day. If you feel the need, consider setting up alerts on a news app so that you get major headline updates during the day; but be aware that for some people the alert...s trigger anxiety so you may need to adjust your strategy here! If you want reliable information on COVID-19 pick one resource and stick to it, for example the Queensland Health website. 2. Whether youre still going to your usual workplace, or working from home/remotely, stick to routines as much as possible. Keep to usual bedtimes, morning routines, mealtimes, and establish new routines if you need to (for example replacing your usual commute with a walk around the block, or yoga on the back deck). Keeping routines is particularly helpful for kids who, if theyre anything like mine, will be really missing their usual sports or other activities! 3. Practice gratitude; this could be a new routine you start that will benefit you both now and in the future. Make it part of your daily routine by using an App and setting up a reminder, for example the 3 Good Things App. 4. Breathe! I say this one a lot - take a slow breath in through your nose for a count of 4, breathing into your lower belly so it inflates; hold it for a second or two; breathe out slowly through your mouth for the count of 5, and feel your belly deflate. 5. Look for the helpers / be a helper. If/when you are on social media, look for the local groups where people are offering help and support to others. Get involved. 6. Worry time. Keep a list of worrisome thoughts that pop up during the day and set aside a time when you allow yourself to worry. 7. Ask for help; talk to someone, staying connected is important so think of the people youre comfortable sharing with. Maybe look at online forums and get support from other people with similar concerns, for example Beyond Blue has forums on multiple topics, plus many useful resources and information. For more on stress and anxiety (including how to tell the difference) in the comments below is a link to a blog post I did in January that includes some more strategies.

11.01.2022 I saw this on a friends timeline yesterday and it felt perfect for some Friday feels Help can come from friends, co-workers, family, and from a range of services. Beyond Blue has a list of national helplines and websites, plus they have heaps of info and online forums on their own website. If you feel stuck, please reach out

11.01.2022 The July blog talks about how I ended up building an office at home, how values helped me make that decision, and some thoughts on how values could help you with making decisions and taking action

10.01.2022 This month, I'm walking 100 km on the Black Dog Institute 'One Foot Forward' walk. Come and walk with me on a free 60 minute Walk and Talk counselling session. I’m offering one for each week of October and there are still sessions available. If you want to try counselling in the great outdoors, get in touch for a free Walk and Talk appointment - no strings attached! Terms & Conditions: One free Walk and Talk per person No obligation to book further appointments... Date and time will be scheduled to suit your needs Location - Kedron Brook or similar walks inner North Brisbane Counselling contract to be completed and signed prior to appointment - primarily focusses on my obligations around confidentiality and privacy. See more

08.01.2022 I'm having a few days away with the kids for school holidays, and am loving getting out walking on the beach each day! I'm also looking forward to being back in the office later this week, and getting out on Kedron Brook with some walk and talk clients. Here's my last blog, all about the Walk and Talk. https://www.caracounselling.com.au//walking-and-talking-in

08.01.2022 Some inspiration for this rainy afternoon; there is bread and butter pudding in the oven here, and a game of monopoly on the go Whats your rainy day favourite?

08.01.2022 At the end of my last blog, on mindfulness, I mentioned that for some people all this free time during iso is a myth. Heres a great piece from ABC kids that sums up how all that free time disappears for parents, while acknowledging that in many ways were lucky having the glorious distraction of kids

08.01.2022 If youre thinking of doing Dry July these habits tips may help 1. Pick a goal or target - make it simple and achievable and break the big goal into chunks 2. Plan how you will reach it what are the pathways, and are there any roadblocks you need to move? 3. Practice start your new habit. Adjust the plan if you need to but keep practising ... 4. Praise yourself have a reward when you reach your goal or target 5. Persist dont give up the whole thing if you slip up For example, for a goal of drinking less you might: 1. Pick having a number of alcohol free days each week as your initial goal 2. Plan which days will be alcohol free, taking into account any socialising 3. Practice start having your alcohol free days. Adjust the number of days per week, or the actual days if your initial plan needs tweaking. 4. Praise yourself with whatever you enjoy, a walk, a treat, Netflix etc. 5. Persist if you miss a day. Dont give up; dont go oh well thats it, I may as well skip the alcohol free days for the rest of the week/month!, and dont punish yourself with having to do extra days to make up for it as that will likely make your new habit less appealing! The above is a quick summary from a blog I did on habits at the end of last year, which Ill link in the comments below. Or give me a shout with any queries, thanks

07.01.2022 I often find myself talking to clients about options and choices, so I love this

07.01.2022 Perfect day for Walking and Talking. Grey skies but no rain, lower temperatures, only a handful of people, plus birds and bat boxes to spot If you fancy trying a Walk and Talk Counselling session along beautiful Kedron Brook, and dont mind the risk of rain, Ive free spots Thursday and Friday morning at 8.45

06.01.2022 July's blog talks about the decision to build the new Cara Counselling office at my house in Enoggera, with some help from my values. And some thoughts on how values can help you with making decisions and taking action.

06.01.2022 Spotted this shared by a friend recently and really liked it

04.01.2022 Spotted this just now and figured its appropriate, given we can head to the beach pretty much anywhere in Queensland from tomorrow!

04.01.2022 This Thursday, 10 September, is RUOK Day. If you're concerned about someone and not sure where to start or what to say, the RUOK.org.au website has tips, and you can now even roleplay with Google!! Say 'Hey Google, talk to RUOK mate' to get started. And of course, I'm always happy to have a chat if you're feeling a bit stuck.

03.01.2022 About to start a Walk and Talk around Roma Street parkland and found a great spot for a quick 5-4-3-2-1 exercise. Lots of things to see and hear, and these beautiful plants provide plenty to touch, smell (& even a sneaky taste of rosemary ). Perfect start to the day

03.01.2022 Work in progress! Exciting times ahead with an office move planned for August. From next month, Cara Counselling HQ will be at my house in Enoggera I look forward to seeing my lovely clients in this new space, currently being built inside the garage

02.01.2022 Took myself for an extra few kilometres after a walk and talk this afternoon. Love seeing the turtles and teeny tiny frogs Its probably worth noting that I generally don’t take photos when I’m with clients, as I tend to be focusing on them rather than the wildlife

01.01.2022 'Tis the season to be jolly' or 'Bah Humbug!' This month's blog recognises that Christmas can be stressful, and a time of anxiety, sadness or loneliness for many, and has a few thoughts on how to stress less and enjoy more. Any pro tips on calming Christmas welcomed :)

01.01.2022 Perfect Saturday morning post; if you’re not good at relaxing, maybe schedule it into your diary like any other important appointment