Below are some personal insights and selected self-awareness prompts and activities learnt during my studies in my Bachelor of Counselling (Coaching) degree at the Australian College of Applied Psychology (2015-2019) which can be freely shared with anyone who enjoys exploring this field of study in human behaviour.
This section* also contains journals of my developmental process in becoming a qualified counsellor and art therapist leading to graduation in May 2019.
*Constantly updated, check back regularly.

My 'native genius' has really come to light since completing student placement last year by having the opportunity to truly practice what I preach. For the past seventeen years, I have been journalling my self-discovery journey in close alignment with my career in the arts, namely theatrical work which includes acting, directing, stage management, costume and set design as well as technical operations. In this practice I was completely immersed, on auto-pilot, engaged in rapid learning, experiencing timelessness and was completely satisfied. Why?

I love working in the artistic medium of self-expression, giving voice to insight shared in the human experience which is not just limited to language and words, however, also through performance and artwork. Since placement and in light of future industry work I now know that I am able to facilitate art and play therapy both in individual and group settings which enables participating individuals to also explore their native geniuses in an alternatively fun and engaging manner. Currently, I am exploring role-playing activities and discussions through the art of puppetry, which is an area I did not expect to be going into, however, this line of work is only limited by your imagination and for me I am realising that there really are no limitations, which is deeply exciting!

Explore what your Native Genius is: TEDx 'Evolution of A Job Hater'
Credit: Kristen Wheeler
For the last 31 years, Kristen has been researching questions about being human -- and in particular, "How does one know what to be when they grow up?" Starting with herself as the primary subject, she has inquired through the lenses of psychology, business, religious traditions and the arts. She started her career as a CPA and software developer for Accenture and later completed advanced degrees in mythology and body-centred psychology. Since 1990, she has consulted with companies about the intersection of human thriving and organisational performance.

Emotional intelligence has been found to be one of the most desired qualities for personal and professional development. It is a process that is not easy, requiring deep self-reflection into whom you are - your triggers, fears and what makes you tick, however, it is ultimately rewarding. 

Here are 11 questions to self-assess your capacity for displaying EQ:

1. Are you usually aware of your feelings and why you feel that way?

2. Are you aware of your strengths as well as your limitations and blind spots?

3. Do you recognise when your behaviours or actions affect others?

4. Are you able to manage your distressing emotions well and bounce back quickly from stressful situations?

5. Can you adapt smoothly to change?

6. Are you able to manage your emotions - calm yourself down when you feel anxious or upset?

7. Are you able to listen without jumping into judgement?

8. Are you able to focus on the big picture and main priorities of life and work? Do you know the steps it takes to get there?

9. Are you able to detect the feelings of others around you and understand their way of seeing things (perspective-taking)?

10. Can you freely admit to making and owning a mistake?

11. Are you keen on negotiating agreements that benefit both you and others in order to settle conflicts?

Credit: Marcel Schwantes - Principal and founder of 'Leadership From the Core'

Here are the special personality traits of people who like to be alone! There are many people who like to be alone. If that’s you, you tend to enjoy spending as much time on your own as possible. Of course, you do have friends. It's not that you dislike people, you like being alone and there’s nothing wrong with that. You simply have less of a need for peer acceptance than most.

People who like to be alone choose to embrace their feelings and become fully aware of them. Loners are strong willed when tough situations arise. If there is anything extremely important to a loner, it is time. And you respect and value time more than anything else! You love to show the meaning of compassion as well as kindness to others. And you tend to be among the most empathetic people in the entire world. Yes, if you have these signs you’re an empath! Your intuition is your constant guide. It keeps leading you to the next best thing that awaits you on your journey through life.

* Are you intrigued to find out more about YOUR personality type/traits?

Click here to take a FREE personality test via the 16 Personalities website utilising the NERIS Type Explorer (similar to the Myers Briggs Type Indicator).

Counselling theories and associated skills, developmental and positive psychology application in culturally diverse settings, life coaching application, group  work and project development are all areas where I excel and have continued interests in further work. 

Therapy Modalities:

Art Therapy, Guided Imagery & Music Therapy, Psychodrama, Mindfulness-Based Therapies, Motivational Interviewing, Person-Centred Counselling, Narrative Therapy, Play Therapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Psycho Education, Sand Tray Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy & Soul-Centred Therapy.

Areas Of Specialisation:

Anxiety, Depression, Careers Counselling, Communication Issues, LGBTIQPA (Gender Inclusive) Issues, Life Transitions, Low Self-Esteem, Mental Health Issues (General), Social Skills & Stress.

I am currently working on a conceptual website to share learned and evidenced approaches in leading a positive, productive and fulfilling lifestyle through exploratory research into the dynamics and complexities of increasing, acquiring and inspiring Happiness, Hope & Unity in self and in others. This will be an accessible resource for everyone.

Click the image below to view this work in progress..