I am dedicated to providing empathetic, client-centered support, tailoring our sessions to meet your unique needs.

Creating a strong and supportive therapeutic relationship is my priority, ensuring it feels right for both of us. If that’s not the case, I’ll suggest alternative support options or provide additional resources. 

Courtney McPherson, BCouns.
Psychotherapist | PACFA Reg. Certified Practising Counsellor (28995)

As a trauma-informed counsellor, I draw on both my professional training and personal lived experience to provide a holistic and empathetic approach to psychotherapy. I am committed to offering a safe, compassionate, and validating environment for clients, ensuring each individual feels supported to be their authentic self during our sessions.

My therapeutic approach is grounded in a deep understanding of complex trauma and the impact it has on individuals. I prioritize trauma-informed care and work collaboratively with clients to foster healing, self-awareness, and growth.

My professional areas of expertise include, but are not limited to:

  • Carer and Consumer Lived Experience
  • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) 
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) 
  • LGBTQIA+ affirming interventions
  • Neuro-divergent-Informed and Affirming Practices
  • Facing suicidal ideation and thoughts
  • Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
  • Trauma 
  • Nervous System Awareness
  • Emotional Regulation

The frameworks and therapeutic models I typically utilise: 

  • Trauma-Informed Care
  • Person centered care/Humanistic Therapy
  • 'Parts' Therapy
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
  • Polyvagal Theory/Nervous System Awareness
  • Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) skills 
  • Mindfulness 

Lived Experience 

Through my own experiences, I understand how difficult and isolating it can feel to seek support, particularly when you are searching for someone who genuinely understands what you are going through. I want you to know that you are not alone. My aim is to provide the understanding, compassion, and support that I once needed and spent a long time searching for myself.

I bring personal lived experience of navigating the mental health system and accessing support for complex mental health challenges. My own journey has given me a deep understanding of how challenging it can be to find support that feels safe, compassionate and authentic.

This lived experience is at the heart of my work and was the driving force behind my decision to establish Safe Now Therapy. It is my passion to create a safe, compassionate, and supportive space where people feel heard, understood, and empowered on their journey.

Professional Qualifications

Bachelor of Counselling with the Australian College of Applied Psychology (ACAP)

Recent professional development topics completed: 

  • ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training) 
  • Somatic Psychology
  • Neuro-affirming Practice
  • Motivational Interviewing
  • How The Body Keeps the Score with Dr. Bessel Van Der Kolk - Intensive Trauma Treatment Course 
  • Understanding Abuse and Intimate partner violence 
  • Mental Health First Aid 
  • Suicide Prevention and Recognition