Every counsellor has a story. Here's mine.
I've always been deeply curious about people.
Not simply about what they do, but about why. Why we respond the way we do. Why relationships can feel so meaningful, yet so painful. Why some experiences stay with us long after they've passed, while others quietly shape the way we see ourselves and the world around us.
Over the years, I've come to believe something very simple:
People make sense.
Our thoughts, emotions, behaviours and relationships don't exist in isolation. They are shaped by our life experiences, our relationships, and the ways we've learnt to adapt, protect ourselves and survive.
That belief sits at the heart of how I work today.
I'm Bree Edmondston, the founder of Soulful Support Counselling and a registered counsellor based in Maitland, NSW.
Alongside my professional training, I'm also a wife, a mother of three, and someone who understands that life is rarely straightforward. Like many people, I've experienced seasons of growth, uncertainty and change that have shaped not only who I am, but also the counsellor I've become.
These experiences have strengthened my belief that healing doesn't come from being told what's wrong with us. It comes from feeling genuinely seen, understood and supported.
My approach is grounded in attachment theory, trauma-informed practice and neuroaffirming care.
I believe healing begins with understanding. Together, we'll explore not only the challenges you're facing today, but also the experiences, relationships and protective patterns that have shaped your life.
I often integrate parts-based approaches, including Resource Therapy, to help clients develop greater self-awareness and self-compassion. Rather than viewing anxiety, self-criticism or emotional overwhelm as something to fight against, we'll become curious about the different parts of you that have been working so hard to keep you safe.
Because every part of you has a story.
And every story deserves to be understood.
My Commitment to Lifelong Learning
I believe my clients deserve care that is both compassionate and evidence-informed. For that reason, I am committed to ongoing professional development, regularly undertaking advanced training, supervision and education to ensure I continue providing the highest standard of care.
Professional Qualifications & Training
Masters of Counselling, UNE (Currently Completing)
Bach of Psych Science, University of Newcastle
Dip of Counselling, AIPC
Adv Cert in Meditation & Mindfulness, Meditation Australia
Resource Therapy - Foundations
Gottman Method Couples Therapy - Completed L1 & L2
Gottman Method Treating Trauma & Affairs
Gottman Method Therapy for Partner Aggression and Abuse
Emotion Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT) Externship
Relational Life Therapy (RLT) - Level 1
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
Sex and Relational training (Tanya Koens)
Men in Mind (Men’s mental health)
Suicide Prevention Training
Peaceful Kids Facilitator
Working with Children Check (WWCC)
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No. I do not offer mental health care plan counselling. I work within a quality full-fee private pay model of service.
You can book directly as we are a private service provider, there is no need for a referral and no Medicare rebates apply. You may be eligible for a health insurance rebate depending on your level of coverage.
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The cost of services varies depending on the type of service you need. Click here to find out more.
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If you are experiencing financial hardship please reach out to discuss a rate reduction. This is assessed on a case by case basis.
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You are able to cancel / reschedule your session in accordance with our policy:
Cancellations or reschedules up to 48 hours prior to session appointments can be rescheduled or cancelled at no charge.
Between 48 hours and 24 hours prior to session a fee of 50% will be charged for cancellations and rescheduling.
Cancellations/rescheduling less than 24 hours or NO shows to appointment will be charged 100% of the fee.
Extenuating circumstances can be discussed with us and decisions are at the owners discretion.
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During your first session your therapist will ask you questions to get to know you better and understand what brings you here. You will also have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have about the help process.
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Finding the right counsellor is an important step. A good place to start is our Counsellor page to find outtheir experience, approach, and areas they work with.
We support individuals, couples, and families with a range of concerns like relationship issues, communication struggles, anxiety, stress, parenting challenges, and more.
We also offer a free 15-minute phone enquiry call with Bree, the founder of the practice. This isn’t a counselling session, but a chance to talk through what you’re needing support with and see who on the team might be the best fit.
During the call, Bree can also walk you through how we work, what appointments are available, fees, and whether you’d prefer in-person counselling at our Maitland office or sessions by phone or Zoom.
And if we’re not the right fit for any reason, we’re happy to point you in the direction of someone who might be.
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Reach out anytime to info@soulfulsupport.au or request a call back via the contact submission page
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Yes – Counsellors are bound by a strict code of ethics and confidentiality is at the heart of what we do. We cannot release your information without your consent
There are some exceptions to confidentiality:
1. Subpoenas
2. Mandatory reporting
3. Risk of harm to self or others
Confidentiality and its exceptions are covered in the agreement you will receive when you book.
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No we are not a crisis service and we don’t offer out of hours support – unless you have an appointment scheduled.
If you are experiencing a serious mental health crisis that may be leading to thoughts of self-harm or suicide. Please contact the free 24-hour counselling service Lifeline on 131 114. You can find more crisis support contacts at the bottom of our services page here.
If you are concerned about someone’s safety or your own please contact the Police.
Frequently asked questions
Professional Associations