Karen Michelbach

anxiety, depression, grief, trauma

Happiness is just around the corner…
Image of young person feeling sad

…let’s take the journey together!

Photo of Karen Michelbach
Welcome, I’m glad you’re here! I’m Karen Michelbach and I have lots of helpful gems here for you to find. Life can bring challenges that we didn’t plan for, didn’t ask for and downright don’t want. This happens to everyone at some stage, and sometimes it’s overwhelming. The first helpful action we can take is to talk to a trusted person; a trained professional who can journey with us to get unstuck and to have a more fulfilling life. Everyone’s story is different and the way we respond to stress is unique. This is why my services are personalised to your own needs and situation.

COVID-19 Statement

Let me tell you about my COVID-19 safety measures…

Please note: if you are unwell, have been in contact with a known case of Covid-19 or recently travelled interstate, we will need to arrange an online counselling session instead of in-person.

Counselling Room –

• Hand sanitiser is available for you to apply when you enter the building

• Surfaces will be wiped down after each client

• You are more than welcome to bring your own items that you have found useful for calming (eg fidget spinner or other sensory items)

Online Counselling –

Attending a video session is available for those who prefer this and can also be an option for those who usually visit the counselling room but are finding themselves needing to self-isolate or preferring to socially distance. This will be true of myself – if I have mild cold-like symptoms, I will call or text you to arrange an online session rather than postpone.

Ensuring a safe environment for everyone

Wash your hands |  Stay home when sick | Cover coughs & sneezes | Social distancing

If you are feeling concerned by COVID-19 related issues, I invite you to look at this helpful video by Dr Russ Harris.

Please Note – this is not an emergency service. If you are in an emergency, in danger, or you or someone close to you has seriously harmed themself, call triple zero (000) for emergency services.

If you need to connect with someone urgently between sessions, below are some great services that can help you talk through things. You will find them supportive, confidential and non-judging.

Lifeline 13 11 14
Beyond Blue 1300 224 636
1800 Respect 1800 737 732
Mensline Australia 1300 789 978
Kids Helpline 1800 551 800
Headspace 1800 650 890
Mindspot 1800 614 434
National Coronavirus Helpline 1800 020 080
National Debt Helpline 1800 007 007

About

My Story

I’m Karen Michelbach, a trained and registered Counsellor and Psychotherapist based in Adelaide; and I journey with people to help them manage the hurdles of life.

I work with all ages, however, I specialise in working with 12-25 year olds; helping them to identify faulty thinking that has got them stuck. This often means working through anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma.

I have been a people helper for most of my life; initially as a volunteer, working in schools, community and church groups. My professional journey began in 2013 as a Pastoral Care Worker in schools (primary and secondary). This role has provided opportunities to support individuals across the whole school community. I’m also registered as a chaplain with Disaster and Recovery Ministries SA. I supported families during the relief and recovery of the 2020 Bushfires and 2022 Floods.

I completed my training as a Counsellor and Psychotherapist in 2017.

My Methods

My approach in integrated psychotherapy, includes: – cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), – consideration of past and present experience; family of origin work, – emotion and strength focussed therapies. I am client focused and love helping individuals become unstuck from their circumstances,
enabling them to move forward. I believe every individual is a person of value and has purpose.

My Services

Face to Face:
LifeWell South Wellness Centre (Colonel Light Gardens)
For Wellness Sake (Willunga)

Online:
– video sessions available

Walk & Talk:
– (weather permitting) walking side by side can be preferred by some. This will take place at an agreed public location (along the beach or a park reserve).

Resources:
– a growing list of fact sheets for you to print
– resources for purchase (coming in 2024)
– links to other services.

Private Health Provider:
Medibank and ahm

Bookings

To make an appointment – click here or call, text or email. 

Mobile – 0401 751 520
Email – contact@kjmcounselling.com.au

Fact to face sessions (at LifeWell, For Wellness Sake or Walk & Talk) can be paid by cash/card/bank transfer
Online Sessions (paid in advance) can be paid by bank transfer

Often, the need to see a counsellor has not happened overnight. So too, the counselling process will not be a quick fix. There will be things to explore, learn and practice.

Gallery

For those of us who are visual people, pictures can help promote a sense of calm.

Here are some great pics from Brad and Ryan Michelbach.

 

Choose a picture that appeals to you and take time to notice:

– What about this picture appeals to you?

– What responses do you notice in your body when you make time to notice? Eg a sigh, muscles noticeably relax, teary.

– Does it remind you of someone, or a time or a place?

– What could your response to this picture teach you?

….or just enjoy flicking through these great pics

Contact

To make an enquiry or appointment use the contact form below.

Alternatively, you can call/text Karen on 0401 751 520 or email at contact@kjmcounselling.com.au

Calls are welcome Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm

Leave a message – I am unable to answer calls while in a session; please leave a message and I will return your call as soon as possible.

Resources

Teen Compass

How well balanced is your life? Having a balance will help you feel more confident and better able to cope with life. This PDF will help you identify areas in your life that could do with some attention. Click here to download.

Beautiful vs Average

How do you see yourself? Click here to download.

Five Building Blocks of Friendship

Five qualities that will help you build strong friendships. Click here to download.

Memory Box

Losing an important someone or pet (either through death or distance) is painful. The memory box will help you through this difficult process. Click here to download.

Values and Goals

Values and goals help you have purpose; a reason to get up in the morning and enjoy the day. Click here to download.