About Gina

Gina attained a Bachelor of Social Science majoring in Psychology and Sociology in 2000, and a Graduate Diploma in Psychology from the University of New England in 2004. Completing a Post Graduate Diploma in Social Health from Macquarie University's Psychology Faculty in 2006, she became fully registered with the Psychology Board of Australia, and is an Associate member of the Australian Psychological Society .

An experienced therapist with a wide range of expertise, Gina came to Psychology after beginning her career in the Information Technology field, where she recognized her passion for helping people. Transitioning into Counselling and Group Facilitation in 1995, she later achieved full registration as a Psychologist in 2006. Gina has been working in private practice since returning to Ballina in 2007. She assists people with a wide range of issues including; anxiety, depression, stress, adjusting after major life events or upheavals, relationship concerns, sexual difficulties, grief and loss, self-esteem and self-confidence, workplace conflict and team-building, and WorkCover claims.

Gina is passionate about her work and has a strong interest in helping people develop to their fullest potential. She takes a creative, down-to-eart approach to counselling, using a combination of internationally recognised evidence based methods that best meet the unique needs of each client. These include: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness, traditional Cognitive Behavioural Therapy , as well as the work of John Gottman and David Schnarch. Gina also provides Equine Assisted Psychotherapy using the EAGALA model when appropriate, working with Kerry Johnson at the Teveton Centre for Equine Experience.

During her career Gina has held a number of other roles outside private practice including Child and Family Therapist at Relationships Australia, Co-ordinator of Unifam's Counsellor Training Program, Counsellor and Trainer at Lifeline Sydney and Wesley Gambling Counselling Service.