I am a compassionate, culturally responsive counsellor and a social worker dedicated to helping women navigate anxiety, depression, postpartum challenges, and relationship issues. Born in India and calling Australia home since 2007, I bring a unique perspective on how culture, family systems, and social expectations shape our identity. This allows me to support clients from diverse backgrounds with genuine curiosity and respect.
My Experience
With over 14 years of clinical experience in high-intensity settings—including crisis intervention, child protection, and hospital social work—I have supported individuals through profound grief and shock. Alongside my private practice, I currently work as a counsellor within a Canberra Health Services parenting support program.
My Approach
My work is grounded in a trauma-informed framework. I understand that trauma can dysregulate the nervous system, leading to exhaustion or emotional shutdown. Therapy with me is not about "fixing" you; it is about creating safety, restoring choice, and gently supporting you to reconnect with your body, emotions, and sense of self.
Shilpa Arora Nayyar
Trauma-Informed Counsellor & Social Worker Based in Canberra, ACT
Somatic Therapy focuses on the mind–body connection, helping you notice and regulate bodily sensations linked to stress and trauma, and supporting nervous system regulation.
Narrative Therapy supports you to explore and reshape the stories you hold about yourself, separating you from problems and strengthening preferred identities.
COUNSELLING MODALITIES:
I draw on an integrative range of therapeutic approaches, tailored to each individual’s needs:
Creative and Expressive Therapies (including art and movement-based approaches) provide non-verbal pathways for expression, particularly when words feel limiting or overwhelming.
Internal Family Therapy (IFT) helps you understand and work compassionately with different “parts” of yourself, supporting internal balance and self-leadership.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) supports you to develop psychological flexibility, helping you live in alignment with your values while responding more gently to difficult thoughts and emotions.
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) offers practical skills for emotional regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness.
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) supports awareness of thought patterns and behaviours, helping you develop healthier and more supportive ways of relating to challenges.
Attachment-based and developmental approaches focus on early relational experiences and how they shape emotional safety, connection, and self-worth.
At the heart of my work is a belief that healing happens in safe, respectful relationships. I aim to provide a space where you feel heard, understood, and supported at your own pace—honouring your strengths, your story, and your resilience.