Hi I am Maria Souza,
Thankyou for visiting my website!
My counselling career comes from my deep desire to help those who are struggling and in need of support. I have found from my own personal and professional experience, that often we are so caught up in the ‘vortex’ that is our problem or situation, that we cannot find our way out, or way ahead.
Often what is needed to move forward out of this vortex, is just one step ahead. Taking that first step ahead can help unfold further options and solutions to problems that may have never been considered, or thought possible, and within reach.
And that is where the name ‘Step Ahead Counselling’ comes from.
A little about me.. I naturally fell into Human Resources as a career, as I love working with people in a helping capacity. I always maintained an open door policy and welcomed staff to chat, or talk through their problems.
It was through my Human Resources career that I saw first-hand that any areas of our lives that are causing us stress or worry and that are not addressed, can soon impact other areas of our lives, including our mental health and relationship with significant others.
I have worked for sixteen years in HR in Corporate, Technology, Start Up’s, and the Not for Profit sector. Eight of those years I was in global stand-alone managerial or executive level positions, as a trusted advisor helping and supporting staff through personal as well as workplace issues.
However, as much as I loved working in Human Resources, after 16 years I started to feel that I wasn't truly living my passion and purpose in life. That was to work one-on-one with people in a counselling therapeutic relationship.
And here I am!
I have been blessed with the opportunity to live and to travel to many countries, and this has helped me broaden my horizons and become more culturally aware and competent. This enhances my counselling services, especially when working with diversity. I pride myself on being inclusive and non-judgemental.
Finally, I have a little Maltese Shiatsu puppy named Alfie. He is the joy to my heart and we have an unspoken arrangement where I feed, pet and provide him plenty of treats, and in return he showers me with unconditional love and licks.
I look forward to working with you!
Qualifications & experience
Diploma of Counselling, AIPC
Advanced Major - Relationship Counselling and Conflict Resolution
Advanced Major - Child Development and Effective Parenting
Gottman Method Relationship Counselling ( in progress)
Mental Health First Aid
Member of Australian Counselling Association
Bachelor’s Degree in Communications
16 years experience Human Resources
MY APPROACH
As a professionally trained Counsellor, I use an integrated counselling approach when dealing with my clients.
We are, after all, unique beings and therefore I do not find that one approach works for everyone.
I believe that you are the expert in your life, therefore I predominately work from a person-centred counselling approach. I draw from aspects of Person Centred Therapy, Solutions Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). However, the modality that I use will depend on you as an individual, your situation and how you present on the day.
In our sessions, I will walk beside you on your journey, and I will be there to guide and support you in each step ahead, and beyond.
Want to find out more?
The connection between a counsellor and client plays a critical role in the success of the therapeutic relationship.
I offer a free 15 minute phone call to see if we are the right fit.
I am looking forward to connecting with you!