About me
I have a private practice in Summer Hill and Glebe in the inner west of Sydney where I see individuals and couples for counselling and psychotherapy and facilitate groups throughout the year.
I hold a Graduate Diploma of Counselling from the Institute of Counselling as well as a Graduate Diploma in Emotionally Focused Therapy from the Institute for Emotionally Focused Therapy. I have also completed training and courses in Addiction Counselling, Group Therapy, Couple Counselling, Voice Dialogue, Cognitive Therapy, Narrative Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy amongst many others.
I am an approved service provider to the National Carer Counselling Program NSW and South Pacific Private which is a treatment centre for addictions and mood disorders. I am also a Senior Group Facilitator at Holyoake (Centacare).
I am a clinical member of the Counsellors and Psychotherapists Association of NSW and am on the National Register of Psychotherapy & Counselling Federation of Australia Inc [www.pafca.org]. These professional bodies set the standands of training, supervision of clinical work and ongoing professional development.
I constantly expand my knowledge by attending workshops for professional development, keep up to date with new research and subscribe to various professional magazines within Australia and overseas. I regularly take the opportunity to attend workshops and lectures for my personal development.
I endeavour to maintain and continue to develop good health in my physical, spiritual, mental, emotional and social life as I believe my lifestyle also affects the quality of my work. Being a parent and partner also influences my work as do my relationships with family and friends.
Becoming a Counsellor
A traumatic event that occurred over 20 years ago resulted in me seeking personal counselling that was to be the turning point in my life. Due to the changes I experienced in myself and changes that I have observed in my clients, I have came to believe first hand in the human potential to heal and make changes that enhances one’s life. My life experience has been a catalyst for helping others understand their own suffering and move forward.
My passion and enthusiasm for counselling began in 1996 when I became a Group Facilitator with Holyoake (Centacare) where I developed a deep desire to help others in their life struggles. This desire made me determined to further my studies to become a Professional Counsellor and Psychotherapist.
Publications
Simonetta, M. (2008), Tara’s Golden Necklace: An Emotionally Focused Journey to Discovering the True Self. Reader in Emotionally Focused Work, IEFT, Annandale. 4th Edition, pp. 37-50.
Simonetta, M. (2008), Case Study – Jacky. Reader in Emotionally Focused Work, IEFT, Annandale. 4th Edition, pp.101-124.
Most of us experience difficulties from time to time, counselling can help you feel better about yourself, allow you find new inner strength, and self respect.