Hello, I'm Rossara

My journey
In my thirties, I took time off from my work as a journalist and dived deeper into inner work to heal from childhood traumas as I recovered from burnout and surgeries. In the journey of understanding myself on a deeper level, I recognise myself as a complex human who is a writer who wrestles with creative blocks, a seeker, a highly sensitive person, a serious individual with a quirky sense of humour, a curious student of life and knowledge, and a human who seeks comfort and wisdom in nature and books. But that is not all I am.

Embracing my complexity, struggles, strengths, and humanity is an ongoing journey as my life unfolds. Likewise, I see your journey as uniquely yours and you as a human being like no other. A person with the innate capability to heal, and reserves of wisdom and resources that has brought you thus far. 
 
The truth is, you and I have more to discover about ourselves. As a counsellor, I see myself as a fellow traveller walking alongside you towards greater clarity and meaning. I think of myself as a facilitator in the process of you remembering your strengths and tapping into your inner wisdom. 
As a guide, I help you explore new ways to nurture yourself as you move towards where you want to be. When you work with me, we go on a journey of self-discovery, growing self-awareness and owning victories along the way. 
Why work with me? 
 I have helped people heal from childhood traumas and move towards thriving. 
 
Anxiety is an issue close to my heart. I have helped clients learn to handle anxiety and be less afraid of it. 
 
As someone who has experienced burnout, I know firsthand how overwhelming it can be. I’ve worked with clients to understand their needs better and how to meet them. I have helped clients get unstuck and find new directions or move forward in their careers.
Being a childhood trauma survivor myself, I can understand the vastness of challenges faced throughout life. Many of my challenges were not understood until I went through my healing journey. I’ve helped adults connect the dots so that they can move forward towards a deeper sense of meaning and freedom.
 
What we do together
 
I use an integrative approach that suits the client. As a counsellor, I take a “whole body approach” connecting the body and mind. I’m also interested in what comes up for you when you watch an episode of your current favourite television show or read a new book. We would also explore thoughts because thoughts affect how we feel. My style is casual and conversational.
 
If you are curious about the modalities I use, I practice with a trauma-informed, humanistic approach to counselling. 
My approach is also informed by neuroscience, mindfulness and Internal Family Systems. I am a Brainspotting practitioner and a Transactional Analysis practitioner. If you’d like to know more about these modalities, do feel free to ask. 
 
It’s important to know that therapy is a collaborative process. You are encouraged to take an active role to help you reach the outcome you want. 
 
I do online therapy, as well as in-person counselling located at Paya Lebar Square. If you’d like to be outside, we can do walk-and-talk therapy (available on weekday afternoons).
 
The journey you and I will take
 
I meet clients where they are at and focus on the here and now. If and when the client feels ready, we will explore childhood experiences. This helps them make sense of the present, which helps them move closer to the future they want.
 
I teach clients how to manage stress brought about by life transitions, major changes in developmental stages such employment, relocation, and perimenopause, and health challenges.
 
I help clients identify and unpack inner struggles at the root of feelings of unease, isolation, and uncertainty. 
 
I hold space for clients who are making sense of the past and undergoing learning, unlearning, and relearning.
 
I facilitate the process for clients who are reconnecting to themselves and empowering themselves with self-care practices that are helpful for them as individuals.
 
Transformation is a process and a journey. Therapy is worthwhile because you are deserving of all you are yearning for.

 

Qualifications and Additional Training:

  • Master of Counselling (Advanced) by Swinburne University of Technology 
  • Certificate in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy 
  • Transactional Analysis Practitioner 
  • Brainspotting Practitioner 
  • Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP) 
  • Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP)
  • Psychological First Aid (John Hopkins University)