ABOUT RealYou Counselling
Our Philosophy
At RealYou Counselling, our mission is simple but powerful: to provide compassionate counselling that helps you uncover and live as your most authentic self. We believe that beneath life’s pressures, trauma, self-doubt, and learned patterns, there is a version of you that’s whole, worthy, and real. Our work is about helping you reconnect with that version through individual and couples therapy. We offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore what’s holding you back, whether it's emotional pain, past experiences, or internalised beliefs, and gently begin the process of personal growth and healing. Through compassion, insight, and evidence-based approaches, we’ll walk alongside you as you navigate your way to your RealYou.
About me
Greetings, my name is Taina, and it's lovely to meet you! As a client-centred counsellor specialising in compassionate counselling, I offer a warm, empathetic, and collaborative space where individuals can feel safe to explore their challenges. My approach is pluralistic, utilising evidence-based modalities tailored for individual and couples therapy. Through deep listening and unconditional support, I empower clients to foster personal growth and healing, enabling meaningful change in all areas of life.
Qualifications
I have a Master's degree in Counselling (M.Couns) from Edith Cowan University and am a Level 2 Registered Counsellor with the Australian Counselling Association (M.A.C.A).
Carl Rogers' Concept of the Self Actualising Tendency
Carl Rogers introduced the idea of a self-actualising tendency as a built-in force within every human being – a natural motivation to evolve, grow, and fulfill one's potential. This instinctive drive encourages people to pursue authenticity and align their lives with their true selves.
Inherent Nature:
Unlike learned behaviours, this impulse is an essential part of who we are. It exists within us from birth, urging us toward becoming the best versions of ourselves.
Pursuit of Growth and Meaning:
The self-actualising tendency fuels our desire to find purpose, deepen our understanding of ourselves, and lead lives filled with personal satisfaction and significance.
Formation of Identity:
As individuals follow this inner drive, they gradually shape their self-concept - the internal framework made up of their beliefs, values, aspirations, and sense of identity.
Freedom and Positive Direction:
Rogers maintained that when people are granted the freedom to make their own choices, they often gravitate toward goals that are both constructive and beneficial - not just for themselves, but for others as well.
The Potato Analogy:
To illustrate this point, Rogers described how even a neglected potato, left in a dark basement, will sprout and grow toward the light. This simple yet powerful image symbolises the universal urge toward development that exists even in the most unlikely conditions.