John Zenith Counselling

12/09/2025

I had the absolute pleasure of delivering an "Awareness to Action: R U OK?" Webinar today as part of an EAP provider's ongoing series for R U OK? Day yesterday.

Such a powerful reminder that asking "R U OK?" can be the start of a life-changing conversation - but we also need to be ready to listen, support, and take action when it matters most.

More importantly, how we frame the question can make a huge difference. I've heard time and time again how people find "R U OK?" abrupt, brash, or even patronising. Paying close attention to body language, eye contact, and voice tone can set the intention of the genuine care you show for the other person.

Super grateful for the opportunity to be part of this important initiative and help encourage more meaningful check-ins, not just on R U OK? Day, but every day. 💛

John Zenith Counselling and Consulting | 0493 252 547 | www.johnzenith.com.au

25/08/2025

I had the privilege of attending the International Childhood Trauma Conference in Melbourne — and I’m still reflecting on everything I heard, felt, and learned 🌱

While I didn’t get a chance to see one of my favourites, Dr Arielle Schwartz, some of the standout moments for me were hearing from Rebecca Chennelor, Dr. Wenn Lawson, and Christina Keeble. Their perspectives were deeply human about neurodiversity and trauma.

There’s something incredibly grounding about being surrounded by people who are so committed to understanding and supporting those affected by trauma — especially in childhood, where the impact is lifelong.

As Dan Siegal said, we are integrationists, not just here to do the work. It’s not just about the what, it’s about the why. And when we communicate with care, clarity, and compassion, we create more space for healing and connection.

Can’t wait to dive into the video content I missed and keep this momentum going in the work I do every day.

17/05/2025

Today is IDAHOBIT, the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia which celebrates pride and diversity while acknowledging the discrimination and oppression that the LGBTIQ community has faced, and the work that still needs to be done to uphold human rights.

Recently, I've had the exciting privilege to equip the staff of South West Sydney's Medicare Mental Health Centre to create an affirming environment and to provide truly inclusive care (if that's ever possible but one can hope!).

It angers me when staff and workplaces believe that working with the LGBTIQ community doesn't require a certain knowledge and skill base - as such, this work should be given great importance when working in sacred spaces of healing trauma.

I believe that trauma recovery is most profound when you feel truly seen and accepted. As a therapist, I'm deeply committed to supporting individuals navigating the complexities of trauma and eating disorders, and sharing my knowledge and skills to support colleagues and workplaces change too. Let's work together to foster healing and co-create affirming spaces for everyone!

Check out my website for more info about clinical supervision and training.

John Zenith Counselling and Consulting | 0493 252 547 | www.johnzenith.com.au

24/03/2025

It was inspiring to hear about the latest insights about addictions and the brain. Located at The Art Gallery of NSW, The Overcomers Place, CEO Penny Wilkinson and the team, presented their annual education seminar with famous author Dr Anastasia Hronis, and panel members Psychiatrist and Clinical Director Dr Michael John Atherton and previous GM and Senior Therapist Jonathan Martin.

Dr Hronis did an amazing presentation on the effects of dopamine, choice and the brain with some key findings about technology, the benefits and dangers, particularly for kids and adolescents. highlighting how we can all make small everyday changes so we can make better choices without switching off, being dopamine driven, and staying in the here and now.

The panel took us through some key insights about addiction and recovery and provided some visibility for carers or family members who are often forgotten but feel the strain of, and can support a person through addiction.

With no seats left, the event was filled with like minded, passionate humans that brought a sense of connection and community. What a great Saturday afternoon!

John Zenith Counselling and Consulting | 0493 252 547 | www.johnzenith.com.au

03/03/2025

In a time where the diversity and inclusion battalion needs to shine bright, it was great to see the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) members having presence at Sydney Gay and Le***an Mardi Gras Parade 2025. Well done to Martin Silveira, Anita SocialWerker for leading the group. As a young person I would watch the Mardi Gras through eyes of hope and celebration that one day, I could be someone who can express myself to the world with pride and acceptance. I was so proud to see supervisees who I'd worked with marching along with so much excitement, and as someone who has marched can get a strong felt sense of how much delight it is to march the parade! I'm proud to be apart of an association that says "free to be" as a Social Worker in Australia!

18/12/2024

I'm pleased to receive The Australian Institute of Training & Development Excellence Award. This award recognises outstanding achievement in organisational learning and development, as a a contributor to a project, The Australian Association of Social Workers, Introduction to Best Practice Supervision Workshops, which achieved finalist status in the category of Best Capability Building Program. And won - well done, team!!

The AITD Excellence Awards recognise outstanding achievement in organisational learning and development. The recipient of this badge was a contributor to a project which achieved finalist status in the category of Best Capability Building Program.

18/12/2024

I’m happy to share that I’ve obtained a new certification: Learning Facilitator from Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW)!

The "Learning Facilitator" digital badge is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional skills and expertise in facilitating effective learning experiences. The facilitator is responsible for knowledge and skills transfer by delivering learning content, facilitating group discussions, r...

09/12/2024

And that's a wrap for 2024's Introduction to Best Practice Supervision! 🎁

It's been fantastic delivering this two half day workshop on behalf of the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW), and shaping so many learners with their careers and professional development this year. 💓

Having supervision is an essential survival tool for any social worker, peer support worker or allied health. 🌅

Develop your CPD plan and make sure to include regular supervision for 2025.

If you or a colleague are looking for clinical supervision, I'm taking on new supervisees, so get in touch. 🎆

John Zenith Counselling and Consulting | 0493 252 547 | www.johnzenith.com.au

03/12/2024

It was great to be apart of the celebration of the findings of the first global trial for M**A and cPTSD. Northern Beaches Hospital and Evolution MET A/Professor Ranil Gunewardene and Macquarie University Senior Investigator Vince Polito presented some astonishing findings in the work they're doing that could see a huge change in the treatment of mental health condthat hasn't been seen for 35 years or more. Famous author Rebecca Huntly also shared a touching and inspiring story of using M**A that has provided significant relief of trauma symptoms. While there is a lot of focus on the drugs itself rather than the process or relief, I'm excited to see a full system change or revamp with the introduction of M**A and psychedelics psychopharmacology!

John Zenith Counselling and Consulting | 0493 252 547 | www.johnzenith.com.au

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13/11/2024

💫🌈 Did your 2025 New Year Goals include getting that promotion or being a better Supervisor?

🙋🙋‍♀️ Do you want to enhance your knowledge and skills to provide effective supervision?

🧠💪 What about building your confidence and brain muscle to deliver best practice supervision?

🌏 Join me on 2 and 9 December 2024 where I'll be facilitating two half-day workshops by the Australian Association of Social Workers Virtual Workshop Series - Introduction to Best Practice for Supervision.

⬇️ Click the link below, get in quick, there are only a couple spots left!
👍 Like, share or send this post to colleagues who might be interested.
👉https://www.aasw.asn.au/event/introduction-to-best-practice-for-supervision-december-2024/

07/11/2024

Safety in relationships seems like a given, right? We find someone we like, we fall in love, and we move in together hoping we stay together forever - isn't that the usual story? It's more complicated than that!

Throughout time, we have shifted from trading agriculture to being human capital. I was pleased to attend the Lander and Rodgers Respecting Families expert panel discussion on finances and intimate relationships. The panel presented a lot of *cents* making about the importance of road mapping finances so couples can harness respect in relationships and navigate trigger points if crises happen. I was surprised to hear that couples talk more about s*x and intimacy than they do finances, and that more often than not, it's easier for people to talk s*x than money, as money is often taught to be a no-no and can be conflict generator!

Planning may take time and energy, but it promotes safety and can be a life insurance policy. If you're navigating some tricky conversations, understanding safety in relationships and having the tools to talk with your loved one is essential. If you're unsure where to start, John Zenith Counselling is currently taking referrals now. Make contact today.

John Zenith Counselling and Consulting | 0493 252 547 | www.johnzenith.com.au

19/10/2024

As an observer, I've always found Ikebana admirable and awe-inspiring. There is something about the beauty of where each object fits, and the atmosphere various pieces elicit feelings.

After many years, I finally got the opportunity to invite creativity into my Saturday, and give Ikebana a try. From the workshop to home, the first photo was taken in the workshop with guidance from the teacher Suko earlier today.

The second photo is a re-arrange after dismantling my piece at the workshop with a few additions that I got to bring home. I was impressed with how easy it was to setup a second time (and without Suko present!).

Thanks to for the wonderful workshop and for the bday gift. As a therapist, I strongly recommend tapping into your imagination, embrace nature and organise a flower arranging class pronto. It's totally worth it!

John Zenith Counselling is currently taking referrals now. Make contact today.

John Zenith Counselling and Consulting | 0493 252 547 | www.johnzenith.com.au