Table of content EMAG 2.2

This issue of the magazine showcases diverse experiences within counselling practice, particularly those that span the personal-professional divide.

Neurodivergence is often framed as a gift, a difference to be embraced and celebrated, and for some, that framing offers hope, pride, and a sense of belonging. But for many families, especially those navigating complex neurological disorders like autism spectrum disorder, the reality is far more complicated.

ADHD is often described as a neurodevelopmental condition marked by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. As a clinical registered counsellor, I’ve worked with many individuals, young people, parents, and adults who carry this diagnosis. Over time, I have come to see that the textbook version of ADHD doesn’t always match what people actually live through.

The following case reflection highlights the importance of integrating clients’ religious faith in counselling and its impact on client outcomes. The client mentioned in this case reflection, attended a total of 12 counselling sessions spanning over a period of six months. As a counselling stance, I adopted a faith-based trauma informed approach integrated with elements of CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), and NT (Narrative Therapy).

This article examines the challenges young therapists face from four angles: (1) establishing authority and professionalism; (2) client distrust or suspicion; (3) the role of age differences in empathy and counter-empathy; and (4) practical response strategies. The discussion incorporates insights from three mainstream approaches—humanistic therapy, CBT, and psychoanalysis—how each addresses structural gaps and relational tensions between younger therapists and older clients.

This article is grounded in current research and established clinical frameworks, including Blaszczynski and Nower’s Pathways Model (2002), the Problem Gambling Severity Index (Ferris & Wynne, 2001), and contemporary studies from GamCare, AIHW, and the Australian Institute of Family Studies. All statistics and evidence are drawn from reputable national and international sources. Clinical interventions discussed, such as CBT, motivational interviewing, and trauma-informed practice, are supported by peer-reviewed literature and sector standards. The article does not involve original human research requiring ethics review, but reflects professional practice within the ethical guidelines of the Australian Counselling Association.

In my role as both a sandtray therapist and an educator, I have come to understand Sandtray Therapy (STT) as an integrative and relational process that extends beyond just technique itself. While it is classified as an expressive and creative therapy, STT engages much more than the expressive faculties of the client.

Reflecting on my personal experience of intimacy has deepened my understanding of relational dynamics, expectations, and emotional responses — insights that inform my work as a counsellor.

Explore the journey of Dr Peter Richard-Herbert, recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award, as he shares insights on his career, counselling philosophies, and his unique contributions to psychotherapy.

Health professionals in Australia manage some of the most sensitive data there is: people’s health records. To protect this highly sensitive information, there are strict laws and standards around privacy and cybersecurity. This article outlines the key points every healthcare professional needs to know.

Pornographic sex engages the brain’s reward system through dopamine release, fuelling “wanting,” while natural opioids like enkephalins and endorphins drive “liking”. Repeated exposure increases DeltaFosB in the nucleus accumbens, causing decreased sensitivity and a craving for novelty—hallmarks of addiction.

Explore how the ABC podcast This Working Life tackles handling grief in the workplace with expert insights from Lisa Leong and guests.

Meditation for Psychotherapists provides students and practitioners of psychotherapy with specific meditation techniques. Book review by Dr Gaye Cameron.

85% of Autistic women are only diagnosed in adulthood, which means their stories often go unheard. Too often, discussions about autism focus on its challenges or the perspective of parents who frame autism from a martyr position or as one that has stolen their child. What is crucial, however, is hearing from Autistic individuals themselves, allowing those who live with autism to shape its narrative.

Events calendar: December 2025 to March 2026.

How to publish an article in the CA Magazine.