.png)
Prue Gilligan
She/Her
Accredited Mental Health Social Worker
.jpg)
Hi, I'm Prue
I’d like to tell you a bit about myself, which I hope will help you feel more confident in deciding whether I’m the right fit as a therapist for you. I know reaching out can be hard and daunting, and the idea of opening up to someone new can be scary. So first, I want to give you a sense of who I am.
When I first meet someone, I try and make them feel at ease and comfortable. I’ve created an environment that’s non-clinical, relaxing and ND friendly. I’m warm and approachable, and I want to make this experience as stress-free as possible. I want you to feel like I truly understand and care about you. I’m not your average therapist; I do things many therapists don’t do, and I think you will feel that if you want to work with me.
I believe that our past experiences shape who we are today. I know this to be true for myself. Being an AFAB late diagnosed AuDHD (Autism and ADHD) person, I understand deeply the difficult experiences ND people can have growing up, and not feeling like you understand things, or thinking you are quirky or too sensitive. Therapy can transform your life and enhance your understanding of yourself and how you operate in the world, as well as help you make sense of past trauma or experiences. I truly believe in transformation, healing and becoming a better version of yourself. With less pain and more peace.
I’ve had 20 years of experience working in community mental health, crisis counselling, face-to-face counselling and other roles in the community sector. I’m trained in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), EMDR Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, and Strength-Based Therapy. I focus on the strategies that will work and support each individual because I know one size doesn’t fit all in therapy.
Qualifications
Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology)
Graduate Diploma of Counselling
Masters of Counselling
Masters of Social Work
I’ve been working with Prue for almost three years now. As a neurodivergent, queer, trans masculine person, it can often be hard to find a therapist that aligns with values, but from the first session, I instantly felt comfortable, seen and supported by Prue, something I haven’t had with a therapist before.
Prue makes me feel like I’m chatting with a friend over a cup of tea, and she has the knowledge and experience to support me to navigate life’s ups and downs. She helped me with the process of applying for Disability support services, which was incredibly helpful to me, as well as support after two major surgeries.
I can feel the genuine care that Prue extends to me in our sessions. We do talk therapy and have had some incredible results with EMDR therapy too, which I’m hoping to continue with.
The Collective Hope Therapy space itself is private and comfortable, I’ve always found a car park nearby. You can make yourself a cup of tea, the couches are comfy, low lighting if needed and there’s even a weighted blanket which I’ve used a time or two for extra grounding.
Whether you’re new to therapy or looking for a change, I couldn’t recommend Prue more highly. She’s a down to earth, experienced mental health social worker with a lot of heart. You can expect a warm greeting and a lot of care in your sessions.
Therapy with Prue has given me the grounding I need to face life’s challenges, the space to talk through some incredibly difficult times, and the tools and support to move forward with my life. I’m so incredibly grateful to Prue and all of the work we’ve done together. Thank you, Peter C