Rate Charlene Tan

My name is Charlene, I am a trauma informed counsellor and psychotherapist, I graduated with a Bachelor of Counselling in 2016 and I am a Registered Clinical Member of PACFA (Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia).

I am a mother of two and have a multicultural background, where I was born in the UK and have grown up in Singapore. I currently live in Australia with my husband and children.

My therapeutic approach is relational at its core. I believe that healing happens in connection — when we feel seen, heard, and met as we are. Rather than positioning myself as the “expert,” I work alongside you, gently exploring your experiences, patterns, and inner world with curiosity and care.

My work is informed by contemporary Gestalt therapy with a somatic approach. This means we don’t just talk about what’s happening — we also pay attention to how it shows up in your body, your emotions, and in the present moment. Together, we begin to notice patterns, build awareness, and create space for new ways of responding to yourself and your life.

I have a particular interest in supporting people through life transitions, relationship challenges, family dynamics and conflicts, periods of feeling stuck, lost, or disconnected.

I have extensive experience working in the area of addiction, supporting individuals to gently explore the underlying patterns, emotional needs, and nervous system responses that sit beneath coping behaviours. I also work with partners, family members, and loved ones, helping them navigate the complexities of being in relationship with someone experiencing addiction.

My approach is compassionate and non-judgemental. Rather than focusing solely on the behaviour itself, I’m interested in understanding what it may be trying to protect, soothe, or express. I have worked across a range of clinical settings, including both inpatient and outpatient services, as part of multidisciplinary teams within Australia.

At the heart of my work is a deep respect for your pace and your story. Therapy with me is not about fixing you — it’s about creating a space where you can come into fuller contact with yourself, and from there, begin to move in ways that feel more aligned, resourced, and whole.

Areas of Expertise:

Stress & Anxiety: Providing tools and techniques to manage stress and overcome anxiety, helping clients regain control of their lives.

Addiction Support: Offering a non-judgemental space to help clients cope with and recover from addictions. Ongoing support for individuals in recovery to navigate life challenges.

Family Conflict Resolution: Assisting individuals and families to heal, process and communicate more effectively during times of tension.

Grief & Loss: Supporting clients through the process of mourning, coping with the loss of loved ones, and finding meaning in life after loss.

Life Transitions & Change: Navigating major life changes (e.g., Becoming a new parent, change in family dynamics as new children are born, career shifts, relationship changes, or relocating) with resilience and confidence.

I believe that creating a safe, open environment is key to meaningful progress. My approach is grounded in compassion, non-judgement, and empathy. It takes great courage to reach out for support and I am here to walk with you every step of the way.