
Hi, I am Ingrid van der Westhuizen
My journey into counselling began early in life, shaped by challenges I experienced during childhood. Seeking to better understand myself, I turned to therapy—and what began as a search for insight became a path of profound personal growth. Over the decades, counselling has transformed my life in ways I could never have imagined.
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Today, I bring a solid foundation of self-awareness and lived experience to my work as a qualified Counsellor and Gestalt Psychotherapist. I began my formal studies as a mature student and have been in private practice since 2015. I am also a registered member of the Australian Counselling Association.
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In addition to my private practice, I work as a provider for Employee Assistance Programs (EAP), where I primarily offer Brief Solution-Focused Therapy online.
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I’ve always had a deep interest in people of all ages, and a genuine desire to be present with them in their unique situations. I understand how essential it is to feel truly seen, supported, and heard. From a young age, I’ve had the ability to view situations through the eyes of others, and this empathy has helped me remain grounded, compassionate, and non-judgemental in my work.
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Calm and approachable by nature, I bring a warm sense of humour and a steady presence to my sessions. I consider my ability to genuinely listen—without judgement—one of my strongest qualities. I believe in living a balanced life and do my best to practise mindfulness and presence in my everyday routine.
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I believe wholeheartedly that change is always possible. Learning more about ourselves and prioritising our mental wellbeing are essential parts of a fulfilling life. I feel incredibly fortunate to do work that I love—and to be able to call my passion my profession.
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When I’m not working, you’ll often find me outdoors. I’m an avid hiker, walker, and cyclist, and I find great joy in spending time in nature. My children have long since left the nest, but family and friends remain a central part of my life. I also enjoy ocean swimming, cooking, reading—and yes, I absolutely love to travel!
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I am a firm believer in lifelong learning and am committed to continuous professional development, ensuring that my knowledge remains current and my approach remains fresh and inspired. I now practise from my home office in Alkimos Beach, located north of the river in Perth, and also offer support online via Zoom or over the phone.​​
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