- Relationship and grief
- Practical steps
- English and Igbo
About Bernadette
She helps people facing relationship problems, grief and loss, low self-esteem, depression and anxiety. She also supports those coping with life changes, stress, addictive behaviours and intimacy-related concerns. Her background includes work with people affected by abandonment, adoption and foster care, ageing issues, caregiver strain and cancer-related distress.
Bernadette uses a mix of practical talking therapies. She draws on cognitive behavioural ideas to notice unhelpful thinking and on acceptance and commitment methods to clarify values and take meaningful action. Attachment-based and client-centred ways of working guide how she builds trust and pays attention to relationship patterns.
Sessions are conversational and focused. Expect to talk about recent problems, notice patterns that keep difficulties going, and try simple strategies between sessions. She aims to keep language plain and steps realistic so people can use what they learn in daily life.
If English or Igbo is preferred, she can work in either language. International clients are not accepted. To begin, people follow the site Start Therapy steps and choose a time that suits them.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
14+ years
Credentials
AASW · Australia
Languages
English, Igbo
Therapeutic approaches and online care
Bernadette commonly uses Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy in her work. ACT helps people notice painful thoughts and feelings without getting stuck in them, and to take actions that match their values. CBT focuses on spotting unhelpful thinking and testing new ways of responding to reduce anxiety and low mood.She also draws on attachment-based and client-centred ideas to build a trusting working relationship. These approaches foreground how patterns from past relationships affect current difficulties and keep the work collaborative. The therapist will talk with each person about which mix of methods best fits their goals and preferences rather than prescribing one fixed method.
If you are considering online sessions, please confirm available formats before booking as the profile does not specify them. Online work can make it easier to fit therapy into a busy schedule, reduce travel time and allow shorter check-ins when needed. It also lets people access support from home or from work breaks when quieter surroundings are possible. The therapist will discuss practical arrangements and help match session length and frequency to what suits the client's life.
Frequently asked questions
What concerns does she help with?
She works with relationship problems, grief, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety and stress. Other focuses include addictions, trauma, intimacy issues and life changes.
How would you describe her therapy style?
Her style is conversational and direct, using plain language and small practical steps. Sessions aim to be non-judgemental and focused on what people want to change.
What is her professional background?
She has 14 years of professional experience working in Australia supporting people with a broad range of emotional and relational concerns.
What credential does she hold and where is she based?
She holds AASW and practises in Australia.
Which languages are used in sessions?
Sessions are offered in English and Igbo.
Can people outside Australia work with her?
She does not accept international clients at this time.
How are costs and billing handled?
Costs vary with location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription that can be cancelled at any time.
How do I start therapy with her?
Use the site Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule a time according to the therapist's availability.