ABOUT SOPHIE

Supporting individuals to build awareness, resilience, and healthy relationships.

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy.

I have a Masters in Clinical Psychotherapy and Social Studies with the Institute of Psychotherapy and Social Studies, London England (2009). My study in psychoanalytic psychotherapy had a strong focus on attachment theory and relational psychotherapy. Formally accredited with the UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP) in England, I am now a clinical member of Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA).

Post-training I became interested in meditation and mindfulness in psychotherapeutic practice and have completed a Teacher Training with Matt Young at the Melbourne Meditation Centre (2014). 

Following a passion to support clients in nature with horses, I trained with The Equine Psychotherapy Institute, Victoria, in 2012. I completed their foundation year training, and their advanced Working with Trauma training in December 2014.  Prior to this I completed intensive trainings with the Gestalt Equine Institute of the Rockies in Australia and England (2010). 

The Equine Psychotherapy Institute training has given me extensive insight into Gestalt theory and practice, and polyvagal theory, which has enhanced my capabilities as a therapeutic practitioner. I am commited to ongoing professional development, regular supervision and ethical practice.

I also worked for seven years as a first responder for people impacted by Domestic and Family Violence, and Sexual Assault. Prior to this I worked in Suicide prevention, men's mental health and relationship counselling, and with current and former serving members of the ADF.

I am passionate about Psychotherapy, Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and supporting client’s to feel emotionally safe and grounded. I am experienced in working with complex PTSD, people at risk of suicide and self harm, anxiety, depression, and grief.


QUALIFICATIONS

Masters in Clinical Psychotherapy and Social Studies
Institute of Psychotherapy and Social Studies, London England, 2009

Certified Level 1 and 2 Reiki Practitioner
Reiki Master Georgia Smyrk, 2024

VVCS training (now Open Arms)
Working with returned servicemen and women, 2013/2014

Meditation Teacher Training
Matt Young, Melbourne Meditation Centre, 2014

Working with Trauma Training
Equine Psychotherapy Institute, 2014

Foundation Year Training
Equine Psychotherapy Institute, 2012

Certificate 4 in Alcohol and Other Drugs
Odyssey House Victoria, 2013

Integration Aide for children with learning difficulties
Monash University, 2013


ACCREDITATIONS & MEMBERSHIPS

Psychotherapy & Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA)

OTHER QUALIFICATIONS

Current Police Check
Working with Children Check
First Aid Certificate

Prioritise your wellbeing.