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Mental Health Articles and Resources
Evolving Minds Counselling and Psychology | Menai and Sutherland Shire


Your First Therapy Session: What to Expect
Starting therapy can feel like a big step. It’s natural to feel unsure about what will happen or what to expect when you arrive. Many people feel a mix of nervousness and relief when they finally reach out for support. The first session is a chance to begin sharing what has been happening in your life and what led you to seek support. Rather than diving straight into deeper work, the focus is on understanding your experiences and identifying what may be most helpful for you m

Vanessa Allen
3 days ago3 min read


ADHD in Women: Why It’s Often Missed
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has historically been associated with hyperactive young boys. As a result, many girls and women grow up without recognition or understanding of their experiences. Instead, they are often seen as anxious, disorganised, overly sensitive, or simply “not trying hard enough.” Increasingly, women are seeking answers later in life after years of feeling overwhelmed, misunderstood, or exhausted by the effort required to keep up with dai

Vanessa Allen
Feb 173 min read


When Grief Doesn’t Follow a Timeline
Grief does not follow a timeline after loss. For some people, the intensity softens over time; for others, it remains close to the surface long after the loss has occurred. Because grief does not move in predictable ways, it can continue to shape daily life months or even years later. It may include feelings such as sadness, anger, guilt, relief, confusion, or numbness. When grief feels difficult to live with, understanding what is happening and knowing support is available c

Vanessa Allen
Jan 293 min read


Art Therapy: When Words Are Not Enough
Art therapy offers a gentle way to explore emotions through creative expression, without needing words or artistic skill. Learn more and see if it feels right.

Vanessa Allen
Jan 123 min read


Online Counselling: Support Without Leaving Home
Minimalist illustration of a person sitting comfortably at home, talking to a therapist on a laptop screen, soft neutral colours, calm and supportive mood.

Vanessa Allen
Jan 53 min read


Emotional Avoidance: When Feelings Feel Too Hard to Face
Emotional avoidance can quietly shape how you cope and connect. Learn what it is, why it develops, and how support can help with professional guidance.

Vanessa Allen
Dec 18, 20254 min read


The Irony of Perfectionism: When You Misspell Perfectionism on Your Own Website
A misspelled word on our website led to this unexpected reflection on perfectionism, self-kindness, and the power of owning our mistakes. Because sometimes, being human is the most relatable thing we can be — even when it comes with a typo.

Vanessa Allen
Sep 14, 20253 min read


Building Strong Foundations: Nurturing Connection in the Critical Early Years
A strong parent-child bond begins at birth and influences a child’s emotional development throughout life.

Vanessa Allen
Mar 16, 20252 min read


What Does Binge Eating Actually Look Like?
Binge eating is a term often misunderstood. Many people think it’s just about eating a big meal or indulging in extra dessert from a lack of willpower, but it’s far more complex than that. So What Is A Binge? Clinically speaking, a binge eating involves consuming a large quantity of food within a short period whilst feeling like you can’t control what or how much you are eating. It’s not just about how much food is eaten—it’s also about the emotions that come with it. After a

Vanessa Allen
Feb 15, 20252 min read


So What Is An Accredited Mental Health Social Worker?
When searching for therapy options, it's common to first consider psychologists. It's also important to recognise Accredited Mental Health Social Workers (AMHSWs) also provide essential therapeutic services. They address psychological concerns and incorporate the social aspects of well-being, ensuring a comprehensive approach to care. High Standards of Professional Expertise Accredited Mental Health Social Workers (AMHSWs) in Australia adhere to stringent professional standar

Vanessa Allen
Feb 3, 20252 min read


Intention Vs New Year's Resolution - So What's the Difference?
With the start of the New Year comes the dreaded New Year's Resolutions. While we might start strong, by February the goal is fading along with the motivation. So what instead of setting a New Year's Resolution we turned to setting an intention. While the two concepts may seem similar , they are fundamentally different in focus, mindset, and impact. Goals Vs Values New Year’s resolutions are typically goal-oriented and focus on external outcomes. While they are measurable,

Vanessa Allen
Jan 2, 20253 min read


Managing Stress: Navigating Choices with Confidence
When faced with choice, the fear of making the wrong decision can be overwhelming.

Vanessa Allen
Sep 29, 20242 min read


Breaking the Chains of OCD
Having OCD is similar to having an unwelcome visitor who overstays their welcome

Vanessa Allen
Aug 18, 20242 min read


ADHD and Impulsivity: Understanding the Connection
While ADHD is often associated with inattention and hyperactivity, one of its most challenging aspects, is impulsivity.

Vanessa Allen
Aug 12, 20243 min read


Is Anger a Bad Emotion?
Navigating the world of anger can be like sailing through stormy seas for most kids.

Jaina Jorgia
May 18, 20242 min read


The Gold Nugget: Embracing Mistakes for Growth
If I were to tell you there is a gold nugget to be found in every mistake, would you believe me?

Vanessa Allen
Feb 25, 20242 min read


Insights from Child Therapy: Lessons from Building a Tower
For a child, talking therapy without play can be so very confronting. It is also boring and not at all fun.

Vanessa Allen
Feb 24, 20242 min read
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