About Us

 

 

Meet the Insight Therapies Counselling and Consultancy Team

Anita Geary of Insight Therapies

Anita, Director and Lead Therapist

Anita’s passion is helping clients rise from self-defeating thoughts and behaviours to realise their potential and she believes strongly in the importance of the mind-body connection.  Anita does not view herself as the expert in other’s lives, but rather walks alongside clients and assists them to tune into their own strengths to learn life-long skills on how to be their own best therapist.

Her therapeutic style is compassionate, gentle, collaborative, and intentional.  She focusses on building a relationship with each client which places them as the leader in their own work and supports both physical and emotional safety.

Anita sets the tone for each client to begin where they are at, both emotionally and developmentally, as she believes this to be integral to her client’s success in achieving their therapeutic goals.

By using a therapeutic approach which draws from a range of frameworks including psychotherapy, strength-based approach, client-centred therapy, expressive therapy, animal assisted therapy, solution-focused brief therapy, narrative therapy, developmental theory, and trauma informed theory, Anita is able to ensure your unique emotional needs are met.

Professional Background

Anita is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Registered Counsellor, Certified Animal Assisted Therapist, Clinical Supervisor and owner of Insight Therapies Counselling and Consultancy in Wodonga., Her background includes working both in the child and family services and family violence sectors for over a decade prior to entering the private practice space where she supported countless children, adults and families to heal from trauma, establish safety and achieve long-term, sustainable outcomes. Anita has experience supporting individuals and families across various socio-economic backgrounds to achieve stronger family relationships, decrease challenging behaviours, build more connected social relationships, and create safe and stable homes.

With an extensive history in working therapeutically with adults, children, young people and families affected by trauma, Anita understands the complex work that is required to support clients achieve lasting change. Anita’s ability to support people experiencing a variety of challenges has equip her to always engage a trauma informed approach, which is developmentally appropriate and respectfully delivered to promote individual, long term, sustainable change and to support those in the helping roles achieve this same change with their clients.

Anita established Insight Therapies Counselling and Consultancy in 2019 which is the first and only Animal Assisted Therapy Group practice in our local area and has since become a leader in the development of Animal Assisted Therapy in Australia including the delivery of presentations at national conferences, development and delivery of training and actively participating in the development of national standards for AAT in Australia as part of the leading national body, Animal Therapies Limited’s AAT committee .

Anita has a passion for supporting adult and child victim survivors of family violence with experience in both family violence crisis care and recovery counselling.  She feels privileged to have been able to be a part many survivor’s journeys towards safety and empowerment, self-realization and increased self-worth, confidence, and access to future opportunities.  Overall, Anita has been supporting adults and young people for over 20 years to move from surviving to thriving and hopes to be delivering the same high quality, evidenced based support to clients for many years to come.

Alongside her client work Anita also offers tailored training and clinical supervision to professionals in the helping professions.  Anita has completed the Australian Association of Social Work’s Advanced Supervision Program (Mental Health) and delivers clinical supervision which is trauma informed, reflective, and strength based to promote best practice and enhance the professional development and satisfaction of her supervisees.

Anita Geary and Bacardi Therapy Dog
Anita Geary and Bacardi Therapy Dog

Professional Background

Anita is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Registered Counsellor, Certified Animal Assisted Therapist, Clinical Supervisor and owner of Insight Therapies Counselling and Consultancy in Wodonga., Her background includes working both in the child and family services and family violence sectors for over a decade prior to entering the private practice space where she supported countless children, adults and families to heal from trauma, establish safety and achieve long-term, sustainable outcomes. Anita has experience supporting individuals and families across various socio-economic backgrounds to achieve stronger family relationships, decrease challenging behaviours, build more connected social relationships, and create safe and stable homes.

With an extensive history in working therapeutically with adults, children, young people and families affected by trauma, Anita understands the complex work that is required to support clients achieve lasting change. Anita’s ability to support people experiencing a variety of challenges has equip her to always engage a trauma informed approach, which is developmentally appropriate and respectfully delivered to promote individual, long term, sustainable change and to support those in the helping roles achieve this same change with their clients.

Anita established Insight Therapies Counselling and Consultancy in 2019 which is the first and only Animal Assisted Therapy Group practice in our local area and has since become a leader in the development of Animal Assisted Therapy in Australia including the delivery of presentations at national conferences, development and delivery of training and actively participating in the development of national standards for AAT in Australia as part of the leading national body, Animal Therapies Limited’s AAT committee .

Anita has a passion for supporting adult and child victim survivors of family violence with experience in both family violence crisis care and recovery counselling.  She feels privileged to have been able to be a part many survivor’s journeys towards safety and empowerment, self-realization and increased self-worth, confidence, and access to future opportunities.  Overall, Anita has been supporting adults and young people for over 20 years to move from surviving to thriving and hopes to be delivering the same high quality, evidenced based support to clients for many years to come.

Alongside her client work Anita also offers tailored training and clinical supervision to professionals in the helping professions.  Anita has completed the Australian Association of Social Work’s Advanced Supervision Program (Mental Health) and delivers clinical supervision which is trauma informed, reflective, and strength based to promote best practice and enhance the professional development and satisfaction of her supervisees.

Professional Qualifications

 

  • Bachelor of Social Work
  • Accredited Mental Health Social Worker
  • Diploma of Applied Social Science
  • Diploma of Animal Assisted Therapies
  • Diploma of Community Services, Child Care
  • Certified Therapy Dog Team – Animal Assisted Therapy
  • Certificate in Expressive Therapies
  • Certificate in Play Therapy Studies
  • Advanced Supervision Program (Mental Health) – AASW

Professional Affiliations

 

  • Member of Australian Counselling Association
  • Member of Australian Association of Social Workers
  • Registered provider for Victims Assistance Program and VOCAT
  • Registered counsellor for Carer Gateway

 I will utilise my experience, skills and knowledge to assist you to access your own wisdom and solutions. I will help you to gain insight into your own strengths and to better understand yourself and the world around you. I will help you to look into your inner self and find internal resources which can be built on and used when times get tough, thus creating change long after our counselling relationship is over.

Anita Geary

Bessie

Bessie is a dedicated play therapist and registered social worker with over 10 years of experience supporting children and families through a range of life challenges. Her passion lies in helping little ones grow and develop a sense of confidence in themselves and the world around them.

With a background in complex trauma assessments, early intervention, and parent support, Bessie brings a deep understanding of the importance of nurturing both children and their families.

Bessie’s child-centred play therapy creates a safe, welcoming space where children can express themselves, process their feelings, and work through the things that may be holding them back. Her approach allows children to move forward with a sense of joy, resilience, and mastery over their own experiences. She also works closely with local schools, providing play therapy that promotes children’s social development and engagement in learning, helping them feel more connected and confident in the classroom.

In addition to her work with children, Bessie offers one-on-one parenting support and education, providing compassionate guidance to parents who may feel overwhelmed or disconnected. With specialised training in a range of parenting and early childhood education programs, as well as a Graduate Diploma in Therapeutic Child Play from Deakin University, Bessie tailors her approach to meet the unique needs of each family. Her work is grounded in empathy and encouragement, helping families build stronger, healthier relationships and find their way back to a place of connection and harmony.

Qualifications:

  • Master of Social Work
  • Graduate Diploma in Therapeutic Child Play (In progress)
  • Graduate Certificate in Developmental Trauma
  • Graduate Certificate in Therapeutic Child Play
  • Bachelor in Social Science (Social Welfare)
  • Diploma of Community Services Work (Distinction)

Professional Affiliations:

  • Registered member of Australian Association of Social Workers
  • Registered provider for Victims Assistance Program and VOCAT
  • Registered counsellor for Carer Gateway

Caryn

Caryn is a compassionate and experienced social worker, deeply committed to helping individuals navigate their mental health challenges in a way that feels safe and supportive.

With a rich background working with children, adults and young people, Caryn understands that each person’s journey is unique, and she takes a tailored approach to ensure everyone feels heard and understood.

For younger clients, Caryn offers play-based and creative interventions that allow children to feel safe, process difficult emotions, explore their experiences, and begin to heal. 

For adolescents and adults, Caryn incorporates a range of approaches including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), creative expression, and walk-and-talk sessions. She recognises that traditional talk therapy may not resonate with everyone, and she offers flexible options to meet the needs of her clients. Whether it’s through creative work, engaging in therapeutic conversations while walking, or using more structured approaches like ACT, Caryn helps those she works with to find their voice, manage life’s challenges, and build resilience.

As a certified Animal Assisted Therapist, Caryn also works with her therapy dog, Kaluah, who brings a calming and supportive presence into the therapy space. 

Caryn’s holistic, trauma-informed approach is rooted in empathy and understanding. She is committed to providing the right support for each person, helping them heal and grow at their own pace. Her ultimate goal is to create a space where clients feel comfortable, supported, and empowered to move forward in their journey to well-being.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor of Social Work

Professional Affiliations:

  • Registered member of Australian Association of Social Workers
  • Certified Animal Assisted Therapist
  • Registered provider for Victims Assistance Program and VOCAT
  • Registered counsellor for Carer Gateway

Shannon

Shannon is a compassionate Early Years Professional, skilled Group Facilitator and capable Administration Manager who brings a unique blend of experience in children’s services, animal studies, and administration to our team.

With over two decades of experience, Shannon is dedicated to creating a nurturing and supportive environment where every client feels safe to grow and thrive.

Holding Certificates in Children’s Services, Shannon’s ability to connect with children has been finely honed. She facilitates social and emotional skills groups, where children are supported in forming meaningful connections, developing their confidence, and building the social tools needed for long-term well-being. In addition, she is certified to deliver Animal Assisted Group work with our therapy dog, Bacardi, bringing an extra layer of comfort and connection to her sessions. 

In addition to her passion for working directly with children, Shannon’s extensive background in administration ensures that our programs are not only effective but also smoothly run behind the scenes. Her strong organisational skills and keen attention to detail help us provide the best possible support to our clients and their families.

Shannon is committed to fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment for the children she works with, while also ensuring that everything runs seamlessly in the background. Her goal is to help every personn who reaches out to Insight Therapies feel valued and supported as they embark on their journeys of growth and discovery. 

Qualifications:

  • Certificate in Animal Studies
  • Certified Animal Assisted Group Facilitator
  • Diploma in community services
  • Certificate II in Community Services (Children’s Services)
  • Certificate III in Community Services (Children’s Services)

    Savannah

    Savannah’s extensive experience working with both adults and young people across complex issues—such as domestic violence, homelessness, and mental health challenges—has shaped her compassionate, client-centred approach.

    Drawn to advocating for and supporting people through life’s toughest challenges, Savannah brings a deep commitment to her work as a therapist. With advanced skills and knowledge gained from her degrees in social work and human services, she consistently helps clients achieve their goals and move forward in life.

    Passionate about ensuring her clients feel heard, accepted, and valued, Savannah focuses on helping them build self-acceptance, confidence, and resilience. She recognises the importance of truly feeling seen, especially for those who may feel excluded by mainstream services.

    A dedicated advocate for the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent communities, Savannah strives to create a safe, welcoming space where all her clients can explore their identities and find the support they need to thrive.

    With her inclusive and non-judgemental approach, Savannah helps clients navigate life’s challenges with trust and connection, ensuring that reaching out for help feels as comfortable and supportive as possible.

    Qualifications:

    • Masters in Social Work
    • Bachelor of Human Services
    • Diploma of Community Services
    • Diploma of Human Resources

    Professional Affiliations:

    • Accredited Social Worker with the Australian Association of Social Workers
    • Registered provider for Victims Assistance Program and VOCAT
    • Registered counsellor for Carer Gateway

    Eve

    Eve is a mental health occupational therapist who supports individuals of all ages to achieve well-being through a unique blend of mental health and occupation-based frameworks.

    With extensive experience working alongside neurodivergent communities and individuals with additional cognitive and physical support needs, Eve brings a holistic perspective to her practice. She specialises in detailed functional capacity assessments from a mental health perspective, as well as sensory assessments and tailored interventions.

    Eve’s therapeutic approach is gentle and curious, fostering a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard and valued. She believes individuals are the experts in their own lives and places a strong emphasis on listening to their whole story. By focusing on strengths and unpacking challenges collaboratively, Eve helps clients develop a deeper connection between mind and body.

    Eve supports her clients in building skills across a range of areas, including daily life routines, emotional regulation, sensory processing, coping strategies, and community participation. Her goal is to empower clients with the tools and confidence they need to navigate life’s challenges and achieve meaningful outcomes.

    Eve’s empathetic and person-centred approach makes her a valued member of the Insight Therapies team, where she is dedicated to enhancing the well-being and independence of those she supports.

    Qualifications:

    • Bachelor of Occupational Therapy
    • Safe-guarding children and young people certificate

    Professional Affiliations:

    • Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency
      (AHPRA) registration
    • Member of Occupational Therapy Australia

      Chardonnay

      Chardonnay brings over 10 years of dedicated experience in the community services sector, working alongside children, youth, families, and individuals in times of vulnerability and need.

      With a background spanning neurodiversity, homelessness, family violence, and child and youth services, she has supported people through some of life’s most challenging experiences and approaches every person with warmth, respect, and an unwavering commitment to being trauma-informed.

      Her work with children, adolescents, and young adults has focused on supporting those affected by trauma, anxiety, depression, and PTSD. She has also worked with adults experiencing homelessness in St Kilda, helping them navigate the complexities of trauma, mental health, addiction, and life on the streets. Chardonnay understands the deep trust and vulnerability involved in seeking help, particularly for parents trusting her with their children, and she places great importance on building safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental relationships.

      Chardonnay adapts her therapeutic approach to each individual’s needs, using a variety of modalities including Trauma-Informed Care, Attachment Theory, Family Systems, Art and Expressive Therapy, Play Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. Her holistic, strengths-based approach focuses on recognising the unique strengths and potential of each person, helping them to navigate the different layers of their lives and move toward healing and growth.

      With Chardonnay, you’ll find someone who listens deeply, supports gently, and works with you at your own pace, always with kindness and care.

       

       Qualifications:

      • Bachelor of Psychology
      • Master of Counselling
      • Master in Social Work (currently completing)
      • Accredited Peaceful Kids Facilitator

      Professional Affiliations:

      • Member of the Australian Counselling Association – Level 2
      • Registered provider for Victims Assistance Program and VOCAT
      • Registered counsellor for Carer Gateway

      Katie

      Katie is a registered Counsellor who is dedicated to walking alongside you as you work through your experinces and challenges.  

      With a warm, compassionate approach, Katie utilises a collaborative, client-led, neuroscience-based, and holistic approach to help you addresses mind, body, and emotion to achieve long term change. Consolidating almost a decade of experience, Katie draws upon a trauma-informed animal-assisted psychotherapy model and incorporates practices from somatic experiencing, mindfulness, polyvagal theory, and Gestalt therapy.

      Currently, Katie is completing her practitioner accreditation in Intention Tapping, an energy psychology technique that helps update old beliefs and patterns that may no longer serve you. If you choose, she can also integrate Lifestyle Medicine assessments and modifications into your treatment, enhancing both mental and physical wellbeing.

      Katie is passionate about supporting individuals aged seven and up who face challenges such as trauma, grief and loss, life stage transitions, and neurodivergence. She is equipped to address a wide range of concerns, including mental health issues, stress, low self-esteem, relational challenges, burnout, and low life satisfaction.

      Qualifications:

      • Bachelor of Health Science
      • Graduate Diploma of Counselling
      • Master of Counselling & Psychotherapy (graduating 2024)
      • Graduate Diploma Lifestyle Medicine (currently completing)

      Professional Affiliations:

      • Registered member of The Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia
      • Professional member of Animal Therapies Limited
      • Professional member of International Institute for Complementary Therapists