A desire to make a difference and a love of people and exercise, inspired my entry into the wellness industry in 1991. I have worked in many capacities, including creating two businesses, one educational (est 2007), focusing on professional development, and a Personal training gym which was established in 2002 that I still operate today in Robina. During this time I have had the opportunity to care for many people from diverse backgrounds with varying health and wellness challenges and help them achieve their individual goals. Many of these people for almost 20 years.

Along the way my interest in mental health has deepened, leading me to undertake my Bachelor of Counselling degree at Griffith University Gold Coast. Walk and Talk for Wellness is another small way I hope to make a difference in the lives of the people in my community. 

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I look forward to walking and talking with you soon!

Richard is available at our Benowa location on the Gold Coast

After years of a successful management career, where I had the rare but rewarding opportunity to coach and guide people to reach their full potential professionally, I wanted to continue to explore how I could help people on a more personal level. Helping people is what I feel passionate about.

I started a Bachelor of Counselling and since I’ve graduated, I’ve started my own private practice,am a tutor at Griffith University and have done some work in the NDIS sector. All the while developing my skills in mental health and giving people a trusted avenue to talk about their lives.

 

I now get the amazing opportunity to come back to my Walk and Talk for Wellness family. During my degree I was a trainee counsellor and loved the Walk and Talk format. Healing in nature and walking in beautiful environments has shown to reduce feelings of anxiety and stress and I can’t wait to meet up with you soon!

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Jo supervises for our locations in the Gold Coast

As a third-year counselling student, my passion for listening and understanding others extends beyond traditional settings. My role with Walk and Talk Wellness enables me to integrate nature's therapeutic benefits with impactful conversations. I believe in addressing mental health through a holistic lens—considering the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit—and strive to create a space where clients feel truly heard and supported.

 

My empathetic and open-minded approach helps me connect with clients in a safe, non-judgmental environment where they can freely explore their thoughts and feelings. I’ve found that the combination of walking and talking fosters a unique connection and provides fresh perspectives for both the client and myself. I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate their challenges and discover strength in their journey toward mental well-being.

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Carly is available at our Benowa, HOTA and Nerang locations in the Gold Coast region​

Movement, nature, and human connection have always been at the heart of my work. As a final-year Master of Counselling & Psychotherapy student at ACAP, I draw from a diverse background in nursing, allied health, support work, and outdoor education. Now, as a yoga, Pilates, and rock climbing instructor, I explore the deep connection between movement, mental well-being, and self-awareness.

My own experiences with mental health have strengthened my belief in the power of movement and nature in fostering emotional regulation and resilience. This journey has shaped me into an adaptable and empathetic counsellor, allowing me to connect with people from all walks of life. I find nature incredibly regulating for the nervous system and integrate outdoor activities such as surfing, hiking, and climbing into both my personal and professional life. My approach blends somatic awareness, mindfulness, and therapy to support individuals in building resilience, connection, and balance.
Charli is available at our Benowa, HOTA and Nerang locations in the Gold Coast region​

As a psychological science student in my final year of study, I am excited to begin my journey here with the Walk and Talk for Wellness community. With a strong passion for mental health and human connection, I am committed to listening to my clients with empathy and understanding.

In my personal life, I have found that engaging with the sensory elements of nature boosts nervous system regulation. I also believe in the power of connection. Having an open conversation about life’s challenges can make a big difference.

As a trainee counsellor, I am committed to guiding you through your journey, showing you that you have the strength within you to make a change.

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Alicia is available at our Benowa, HOTA and Nerang locations in the Gold Coast region​

I am a South African immigrant, who made Australia home 25 years ago. With three children under the age of 10, a new chapter of life was begun. The process of emigration was a step into the unknown, and at different times met with sadness and delight, success and failure.

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I have a passion for helping others find their way to joy when confronted with obstacles. I have life experience which will soon be complemented by a Bachelor of Psychological Science and Counselling. I bring a real-life perspective to real-life experiences. While there is a commonality to the challenges we face, there is a uniqueness to the impact those

challenges have on our lives.

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My passion and desire is to assist individuals develop resilience and find lasting joyful moments on their journey of life. I am here to help navigate the unexpected, unplanned and unwanted speed-bumps in life, via a holistic approach of mind, body and soul. I am grateful to be part of this extraordinary Walk and Talk for Wellness counselling and mentoring team.

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Lynne is available at our Benowa, HOTA and Nerang locations in the Gold Coast region​

Hi, my name is Jo and I’m a third-year counselling student with the Australian College of Applied Professions. My passion for counselling is driven by my own personal journey through life encompassing personal lived experience and professional careers within the education and disability sectors.

I am a strong advocate for talk therapy within a nature based setting to enable connection in a holistic manner between the mind, body, and spirit. I find peace and rejuvenation within natural environments that enable and promote my own self-care practices which strengthen my skills for supporting and understanding individuals at all stages of life.

I am passionate about empowering individuals to foster resilience and inner strength for more hopeful and peaceful futures.
 

Jo is available at our Benowa, HOTA and Nerang locations in the Gold Coast region​​

Born and raised in Zimbabwe, I am currently a third-year Psychology student at Griffith University, driven by a deep passion for understanding people and what influences their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Mental health is at the core of overall well-being, and I believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to process their feelings, gain self-awareness, and become the best version of themselves.  

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My goal is to help individuals not just get through life but truly live—to embrace their little moments, shift from simply counting the days to making the days count. Through Walk and Talk for Wellness I am grateful for the opportunity to provide a safe and supportive space where you can be heard, understood, and guided toward a more positive outlook.  

Whether you're navigating anxiety, stress, or personal challenges, I’m here to listen and walk alongside you on your journey to self-discovery and growth.  
 

Tate is available at our Benowa, HOTA and Nerang locations in the Gold Coast region​​

My name is Claire, I am a third-year Psychology student at Griffith University. From a young age, I have been passionate about helping others, and throughout my studies, I have loved deepening my understanding of mental health and the challenges that impact overall well-being.

In recent years, I have developed a strong appreciation for physical activity and a healthy lifestyle. I have found that even something as simple as a walk can reduce stress and shift a negative mindset.

I have a keen interest in problem-solving and working through complex situations to find meaningful, positive outcomes. My approach to therapy is holistic, considering all aspects of a person’s experience to support a more optimistic future.

I am incredibly grateful and excited to be part of the Walk and Talk for Wellness team. I look forward to expanding my counselling skills and growing both personally and professionally.
 

Claire is available at our Benowa, HOTA and Nerang locations in the Gold Coast region​​

Hi, my name is Felicity! I am passionate that everyone should have the opportunity to live their best lives. I believe a large component of this is having someone to share your experiences with. As a third year Psychology student, I have been able to further explore the importance of counselling and communication.
 
I will be writing a research article, reviewing the clients and counsellors experience with Walk and Talk for Wellness. Throughout my life I have always loved spending time outdoors, camping and hiking. Through my experience I believe that spending time outside substantially benefits our well-being. For this reason, I will focus my research on the influence that counselling in a nature-based environment has on the therapeutic alliance created between the counsellor and client.
 

Felicity is available at our Benowa, HOTA and Nerang locations in the Gold Coast region​​