Allison Browning

I’m glad you’re here!

I work holistically, using a mindful therapeutic approach, incorporating evidence-based techniques that incorporate the whole of you. I have extensive experience with complex trauma and related issues including anxiety, depression, disordered eating and compulsions. I’ve worked extensively providing support and understanding around LGBTIQ+ experiences such as coming out, gender identity, dysphoria and trans issues.

I’m committed to learning and growing, so I continue to read and expand the support and practices I bring to the therapeutic space. I’ve trained with international trauma experts including Bessel Van der Kolk (author of The Body Keeps the Score), Pat Ogden and Babette Rothschild and I’ve studied widely in the area of mindfulness, breathing and meditation.

I incorporate practical evidence-based approaches including  EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, CBT approaches, Schema Therapy and Mindfulness-Based strategies. I draw from theories that support us as individuals as well as part of the community we live in. I incorporate attachment theory, poly vagal theory, feminist and structural theories and neuroscience in the way I approach mental health support.

My approach is implicitly trauma informed and as a qualified body worker I hold awareness of the ways we embody our emotions and I work to support you in finding ease and meaning in your experiences. Often we diminish our challenges & we compare them to those of others. All challenges ‘big’ or ‘not so big’ are worthy of support. My goal is to provide a safe & connected space to explore what’s happening for you.

I believe in supporting you with talk therapy as well as very practical strategies for you to practice at home, so you feel confident in managing the emotions that show up day to day. Ultimately, I’m here to support and guide you in doing The Work.

Empowerment begins with ourselves. The attention and commitment with give to growth and exploration allows us to connect with hope, clarity, our self-worth, values and goals.

My experience:
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, writer, mindfulness meditation facilitator, and a practitioner of complementary health modalities. I’ve worked over twenty years working in the area of health and wellbeing in not-for-profit organisations and in the private sector. I hold a Masters Degree in Social Work and accreditation in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), EMDR, Schema Therapy and trauma informed body work. I am a member of the Australian Association of Social Workers and the Mental Health Professionals Network. Working in private practice and for non-profit mental health organisations has allowed me to develop rich experience in the area of trauma, anxiety, mental health issues, grief and loss. I am highly experienced in the area of complex trauma and have a deep understanding of the ways this impacts everyday life and connections.