Susan Christoffelsz, ACA

Susan Christoffelsz is an ACA counsellor based in Victoria, Australia, who supports people facing stress, anxiety, grief and major life changes. She focuses on helping those who feel overwhelmed, exhausted or stuck and need practical ways to feel steadier and more in control. Her approach is warm and non-judgemental, and she aims to meet clients where they are right now.

Susan trained at Monash University and holds a master's degree in counselling. She also completed postgraduate study in grief, loss and trauma, and has worked in private practice for ten years after a long career in teaching. That mix of clinical study and classroom experience shapes how she explains things and keeps sessions down to earth.

In sessions she blends practical strategies with body-based tools to help calm the nervous system. Clients can expect straightforward techniques for setting boundaries, managing shame and reducing overwhelm. The work includes talking things through and trying simple skills between sessions to build momentum.

Susan often supports people navigating midlife changes, caregiver stress, bereavement, and concerns linked to ageing and geriatric issues. She also addresses communication problems, attachment and feelings of isolation or low self-esteem.

Her style is compassionate and grounded in everyday life. She emphasises small, achievable steps that make a tangible difference. To start, visitors complete a short matching questionnaire and then schedule according to therapist availability.

Approaches that calm the body and clarify thinking

Evidence-based techniques that combine practical skills with body-focused work are central to Susan's practice. One approach she uses involves simple, step-by-step coping strategies that help break down overwhelming problems into manageable actions and improve day-to-day functioning. This kind of work suits people trying to reduce anxiety, set boundaries or recover from burnout.

She also uses body-based tools aimed at calming the nervous system. These techniques include breathing patterns, grounding practices and basic somatic exercises that can reduce physical tension and make it easier to think clearly during stressful moments. They often help alongside conversations about grief or life transitions.

Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. Susan will work with each client to identify what feels most helpful based on their needs, goals and preferences. Together they test methods and adjust the plan as therapy progresses so the work stays relevant and practical.

The biography does not list specific online session formats, so please confirm the available formats before booking. Many people find that online sessions can fit more easily into busy schedules, allow shorter check-ins between face-to-face appointments and reduce travel time. Online work can also make it simpler to continue therapy through life changes while keeping the focus on practical tools that transfer into everyday routines.