About Tracey

 Tracey Johnson 

BACounselling, MGestTherapy, Certified EAP  

My psychotherapy career began at Lifeline as a volunteer telephone counsellor in 2003.  I enjoyed counselling so much I trained as a facilitator and later a supervisor. At the time Lifeline offered their volunteers many short courses in therapeutic modalities such as NLP, Art therapy, Focusing and EFT Tapping. I did every course I could and also studied my Diploma in Community Welfare Work/Counselling.

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In addition to traditional study, I completed courses in Reiki (Reiki Master) and Meditation.

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In 2008 I suddenly started having anxiety and panic attacks. I couldn’t eat. I could barely swallow and I lost a great deal of weight. I was overwhelmed by everything. This experience forced me to stop and focus on getting myself well. I had spent so long learning how to help others. This was the time to put all my learning into practice, to help myself. I journaled, I did art therapy, Reiki and had therapy. I was diagnosed with PTSI - Post Traumatic Stress Injury.

It took a good 2 years before I could eating normally again. I found, through those years, a great deal of support came from my family, friends and animals - my dogs and my horses especially. I spent many hours just sitting with them, and allowing the relationship between us to help me heal. 

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This experience has taught me the importance of self care, healthy relationships, boundaries and giving ourselves time and space. Discovering and developing resources, support  and a holistic approach with a somatic (body based) focus is worked for me. 

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I went on to complete a Bachelor of Counselling and Masters in Gestalt Therapy. 

I have also completed training in

 - Family Constellation Therapy

- Trauma Informed Sandplay Therapy and Symbol Work  

- Equine Assisted Psychotherapy/Mental Health. 

I  volunteer for a charity Broken to Brilliant - supporting Domestic Violence Survivors.