Trauma-Informed Individual Counselling
Holistic Healing for Women in the Adelaide Hills
Many women in the Hills carry the weight of past trauma, family breakdown, isolation, or a quiet sense that something essential is missing. In a world that promises connection through screens but often leaves us feeling more alone than ever, the longing for genuine healing runs deep.
At Safe Refuge, we offer one-on-one, trauma-informed counselling that honours the whole person — mind, body, and spirit. Our approach goes beyond managing symptoms toward genuine flourishing: not just a “freedom from” pain, but a “freedom for” a life of authentic connection, meaning, and purpose.
What We Help With
Our trauma-informed approach creates a safe, compassionate space where you can process old wounds, challenge the patterns that keep you stuck, and rebuild your life with confidence.
We support women through:
- Trauma recovery and healing from past abuse
- Anxiety and depression
- Loneliness, isolation, and disconnection
- Family breakdown and relationship challenges
- Loss of purpose and meaning
- Grief and loss
- Self-esteem and body image
- Perinatal mental health
- Career transitions and work-life balance
Our Specialised Services
Trauma Recovery
Our trauma-informed approach provides a safe space for healing from past experiences, helping you reclaim your sense of self and peace.
Anxiety and Depression
Learn effective, evidence-based techniques to manage anxiety and overcome depression, tailored to the challenges women face today.
Relationship Counselling
Navigate personal relationships with confidence. Learn communication skills, set healthy boundaries, and foster genuine connection.
Grief and Loss
Compassionate support for processing grief and navigating life after loss, at your own pace and in your own way.
Perinatal Mental Health
Specialised support during pregnancy and early motherhood, addressing the unique challenges of this transformative stage.
Identity and Purpose
Rediscover meaning and direction when life feels purposeless. Move beyond drifting toward a life grounded in what truly matters to you.
Our Approach: The Whole Person
At Safe Refuge, we believe effective counselling addresses more than symptoms. Informed by faith and guided by evidence-based practice, our approach recognises that lasting healing requires attention to the whole person.
- Trauma-Informed Care: Every aspect of our practice is designed to create safety and avoid re-traumatisation.
- Holistic Wellbeing: We care for mind, body, and spirit — not just the presenting concern.
- Genuine Connection: In a world of digital isolation, we prioritise authentic human encounter.
- Evidence-Based Methods: CBT, mindfulness, solution-focused, and emotion-focused therapies tailored to your needs.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Respectful of your background, beliefs, and values.
Meet Your Counsellor: Aana Carpenter
Aana Carpenter brings a unique blend of medical knowledge, multicultural perspective, and specialised counselling expertise to Safe Refuge. Her own journey — from Singapore to Australia, from medical student to counsellor and mother — gives her a deep understanding of the challenges women face navigating life's unexpected turns.
Aana Carpenter, Professional Counsellor
- Diploma of Counselling (AIPC)
- Advanced majors: Trauma & Abuse, Grief & Loss, Child Development
- Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Biomedical Science
- Australian Counselling Association (ACA) member
Your Healing Journey
Free Discovery Call
A 30-minute online session to understand your needs and see if we're a good fit.
First Full Session
We'll explore your unique story, concerns, and goals in depth.
Personalised Plan
Together, we craft a therapy plan aligned with your needs and pace.
Regular Sessions
Weekly or fortnightly 50-minute sessions focused on your healing.
Growth and Integration
As you progress, we equip you with tools to maintain your wellbeing beyond therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if individual therapy is right for me?
If you're facing challenges that affect your daily life, relationships, or self-esteem, individual therapy can be incredibly beneficial. Our free initial consultation can help you determine if it's the right step for you.
Is your counselling covered by Medicare or private health insurance in Australia?
No. Due to policy around the Medicare Benefits Scheme, we cannot offer you a rebate. If this is something you need, your GP will be able to refer you to someone who can offer you a rebate.
How long does each therapy session last?
Our individual counselling sessions typically last 50 minutes, providing ample time to explore your concerns in depth.
How often will I need to attend therapy sessions?
Initially, we recommend weekly sessions to build momentum in your healing journey. As you progress, we may adjust the frequency based on your needs and goals.
Is everything I say in therapy confidential?
Absolutely. We adhere to strict confidentiality guidelines. The only exceptions are cases where there's a risk of harm to yourself or others, which we'll discuss with you in our initial session.
How often should I attend counselling?
The frequency of sessions depends on your individual needs. We typically recommend weekly or bi-weekly sessions to start, adjusting as needed.
Is counselling confidential?
Yes, confidentiality is a cornerstone of our practice. We adhere to strict privacy guidelines, with some legal exceptions that we'll discuss in your first session.
How much does counselling cost?
Our standard fee is $180 per 50-minute session. We offer some concession rates and package options. Please contact us for more details.
Take the First Step
“Your journey to healing, growth, and renewed purpose starts with a single step. At Safe Refuge, we're here to walk alongside you every step of the way.”
Safe Refuge is a trusted provider of trauma-informed counselling for women across Mount Barker and the Adelaide Hills. Our commitment to your wellbeing is backed by:
- Australian Counselling Association (ACA) accreditation
- Ongoing professional development and training
- $180 per 50-minute session (concession rates available)
Your journey to a more confident, resilient you starts here.