Simone Gargan

Provisional Counsellor

Available Thursdays, 10:30am - 4:30pm (Melbourne time)

In-person, Broadford Youth Centre

Currently completing a Master of Counselling at Monash University, Simone takes a person-centred and evidence-informed approach to create a safe space for clients. With experience in mental health and community services, she supports individuals navigating anxiety, depression, and life transitions using CBT, ACT, and mindfulness. Simone is passionate about creating a warm and non-judgmental space where clients can build personal insight and grow in confidence. She helps clients hone emotional regulation skills and discover pathways toward long-term mental wellbeing.

Tara Hearne

Provisional Counsellor

Available Thursdays, 10:00am - 4:00pm (Melbourne time)

In-person, Broadford Youth Centre

Completing a Master of Counselling at Torrens University, Tara takes a person-centred, trauma-informed, and evidence-based approach, creating a safe and supportive space for clients. With experience in community services, including Alateen mentorship, Tara supports individuals navigating anxiety, stress, low mood, life transitions, and personal growth. She integrates Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and psychoeducation, alongside a holistic understanding of mind-body wellbeing, to help clients feel safe, supported, and more confident in themselves.

Sana

Provisional Counsellor

Available Mondays and Tuesdays, 9:00am - 5:00pm (Melbourne time)

In-person and telehealth

Sana is currently completing a Master of Counselling at Monash University and has experience supporting children, young people, and older adults in educational and community settings. She takes an eclectic, trauma-informed, person-centred approach, integrating CBT, ACT, DBT, and mindfulness to create a safe, supportive, and inclusive space tailored to each client’s needs. Sana has worked with clients navigating trauma, anxiety, grief, and life transitions, and is passionate about culturally responsive and inclusive practice. She is dedicated to helping clients of all ages feel heard, valued, and empowered in their journey.

Justin Chan

Provisional Counsellor

Available Thursdays and Fridays, 9:00am - 5:00pm (Melbourne time)

In-person and telehealth

Justin (he/they) is a Provisional Counsellor and final-year Master of Counselling student at Monash University. Fluent in English, Cantonese, and Mandarin, Justin has supported veterans and youth with neurodivergence across cultures. Their interest lies in person-centred modalities such as ACT and Narrative Therapy, drawing from the personal values and strengths of clients through metaphors and stories to provide clarity and resilience.

“In our sessions at the MHFA Wellness Hub, I provide a safe, curious, and occasionally humorous space for us to navigate anxiety, depression, identity, relationships, and trauma.”

Carolina Kotevski

Provisional Counsellor

Available Mondays & Wednesdays, 9:00am - 5:00pm (Melbourne time)

In-person and telehealth

Client-centred Clinical Nutritionist and Master of Counselling student with extensive experience, supporting individuals to manage chronic health conditions, lifestyle-related risk factors, and sustainable behaviour change. Brings a strong background in community-based care, health coaching principles, and multidisciplinary collaboration. Experienced in delivering education, goal-focused interventions, and motivational support across in-person and remote settings. Known for building strong therapeutic rapport, applying evidence-based practice, and supporting clients to improve health outcomes through practical, compassionate, and person-centred care. Currently completing a Master of Counselling, with developing expertise in motivational interviewing, therapeutic communication, ethical practice, and reflective clinical work. 

Shannan Lea

Provisional Counsellor

Available Mondays & Thursdays, 9:00am - 5:00pm (Melbourne time)

In-person and telehealth

Shannan is currently completing a Master of Counselling at the University of Canberra and is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and supportive space. Shannan’s approach is person-centred, trauma-informed, and neuroaffirming, with a focus on working collaboratively and inclusively. With experience supporting carers, families, and individuals through advocacy and community-based work, she brings a calm, compassionate, and grounded presence to each session. She supports people navigating anxiety, life transitions, identity, and adjustment, drawing on evidence-informed approaches including ACT, narrative therapy, and mindfulness-based practices.

Valentine Iheme

Provisional Counsellor

Available Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 9:00am - 5:00pm (Melbourne time)

In-person and telehealth

Currently completing a Master of Counselling at the University of Canberra, Valentine takes a person-centred and solution-focused approach to creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space for clients. Drawing on experience in community services, he supports individuals navigating life challenges, relationship concerns, stress, and personal growth by building on their strengths and working collaboratively towards meaningful goals.

Shiuli Rai

Provisional Counsellor

Available Wednesdays, 9:00am - 5:00pm (Melbourne time)

In-person and telehealth

Currently in the final year of her Master of Counselling degree, Shiuli adopts a person-centred, trauma-informed, and strengths-based approach to counselling. She is committed to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment where clients feel comfortable exploring their experiences. Drawing on her experience working in schools and universities, she supports individuals navigating life transitions, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and other personal concerns. Passionate about culturally humble counselling practices, she strives to ensure every client feels heard, understood, and empowered throughout their therapeutic journey.