Stress counselling in Geelong support you through life transitions

Stress counselling in Geelong is becoming increasingly vital as more people face the emotional toll of significant life transitions. Whether it’s separation, the death of a loved one, serious illness, job loss, shifting job demands, or the arrival of a child, these events can unsettle our sense of stability and self. Often underestimated or minimised as just part of the “pressures of modern life,” the impact of these transitions is real, and when not properly supported, they can quietly erode our mental, emotional, and even physical well-being.

At our practice in Geelong, we provide dedicated, compassionate support to help individuals manage the stress that accompanies major life changes. With experience in both short- and long-term therapeutic approaches, we offer a warm, grounded space for reflection, emotional processing, and reconnecting with what matters most to you.

When change brings dis-ease

Life transitions can disrupt more than just routines – they can unsettle your identity, challenge your relationships, and stir up unresolved emotional patterns. The grief of separation, the shock of redundancy, or the joyful yet disorienting arrival of a newborn can all trigger significant internal shifts.

When these changes are met with silence, pressure to “push through,” or dismissal, they can manifest as chronic stress, anxiety, mood instability, fatigue, or even physical symptoms like headaches and digestive issues. This dis-ease doesn’t just affect the mind; it ripples across our whole being — physically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually.

Stress counselling offers a chance to pause, understand your experience, and gently re-orient yourself. It’s not about fixing, but about finding a way to hold and move through what’s difficult — with support, not isolation.

Stress counselling in Geelong for the full spectrum of change

As a therapist in Geelong, Helen Handsjuk supports clients navigating a wide variety of life changes, including:

• Marital or relationship breakdown
• Bereavement and anticipatory grief
• Chronic or acute illness (personal or in a loved one)
• Redundancy, retirement, or role changes at work
• The birth or adoption of a child
• Transitions into adulthood, parenthood, or older age

These moments often bring up unexpected emotional responses — sadness, anger, numbness, confusion — or old coping habits that no longer serve you. In therapy, we explore these responses together, and look for ways to reframe your experience with curiosity and self-compassion.

A psychologist in Geelong with a holistic approach

Helen’s approach to therapy is integrative and person-centred. Drawing on neuropsychotherapy, mindfulness, movement-based practices, and nature-based therapy, she supports the whole person, not just their symptoms. They may also explore creative or somatic (body-based) methods, particularly helpful during periods of intense transition when words can be hard to find.

This holistic perspective acknowledges that healing doesn’t happen on just one level. Stress impacts your nervous system, your relationships, your thoughts, and your sense of meaning. Addressing each of these gently and respectfully can support lasting change.

While digital mental health options are increasingly available, there is something irreplaceable about in-person connection with a local psychologist in Geelong. It allows for therapeutic modalities that are grounded, relational, and embodied, and fosters a deeper sense of trust and accountability.

Community-based therapy also reduces isolation and makes it easier to engage in group work, workshops, or mindfulness-based practices that can complement individual sessions. Knowing support is nearby and responsive to the context of your local life can make it easier to ask for help in the first place.

When to seek support

You don’t need to wait until things fall apart to benefit from therapy. If you’re noticing any of the following, it might be time to reach out:

• Struggling to adjust after a major change
• Feeling overwhelmed, emotionally flat, or constantly on edge
• Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
• Increased conflict in relationships
• A sense of purposelessness or spiritual disconnection
• Feeling “stuck” or unable to move forward

Reaching out for support is not a sign of weakness — it’s a conscious step toward self-care, growth, and restoration.

Begin your next chapter with support

Stress is a natural response to change, but it doesn’t have to take over your life. With the right support, it’s possible to meet life’s transitions with steadiness, insight, and self-kindness.

If you’re looking for stress counselling in Geelong, we invite you to contact Helen. Together, you can explore a path that feels authentic and sustaining for you.