Hope and Resilience Counselling

03/02/2026

Stress is an inevitable part of life, but understanding how it affects the body and mind can be transformative. The brain's amygdala, often referred to as the emotional control centre, can sometimes react impulsively during threatening situations, leading to what is known as an amygdala hijack. This phenomenon causes individuals to respond to stress with a flight, fight, or freeze instinct.

In times of heightened stress, it is vital to recognize these reactions and understand that they are natural, evolutionary responses designed to keep us safe. However, when the amygdala takes over, rational thinking may be compromised, resulting in decisions that aren't always in one's best interest.

At Hope and Resilience Counselling, John emphasizes the importance of developing tools and techniques to manage stress effectively. This may involve providing support to journey into our past and acknowledge traumatic events which are triggering us. This can be done through Narrative Exposure Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitizing and Reprocessing/Eye Movement Integration Therapy (EMDR/EMIT).

By harnessing the power of hope and building resilience, individuals can regain control over their responses and navigate life's challenges more effectively. The journey towards emotional well-being begins with understanding and adapting one's responses to stress, a pivotal step in promoting a healthier, more balanced life.

Let's take steps together towards resilience and hope.

02/02/2026

Life often tests our limits through pain, suffering, and grief. These experiences can feel overwhelming, and it’s common to find ourselves questioning ourselves. However, it is in the depths of pain, suffering and grief, whether that be physical, psychological or spiritual, that strength is born. Through understanding and embracing whatever we may be going through, we can heal and grow.

Our healing and growth may be different to what we expected.

Each step taken toward acknowledging pain can lead to a more meaningful path ahead. Remember, it's not about avoiding the hurt—it's about finding the tools to navigate through it.

At Hope and Resilience Counselling, I believe that every journey toward healing is unique. Sharing your story is a powerful act, and seeking support can be a pivotal moment in your life. You are not alone in your experiences, and reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Together, we can explore the pathways to reclaiming joy and peace, even in the toughest of times.

01/02/2026

Anxiety occurs when we are thrown a curveball which we don't believe we have the capacity to deal with. Anxiety can manifest in many physical symptoms, making it difficult to navigate everyday life. It’s important to remember that these feelings are valid.

You are not alone in your journey. John Dodwell from Hope and Resilience Counselling can help you to validate and clarify what's at the root of your anxiety.

Overcoming anxiety takes time and self-compassion. Finding healthy coping mechanisms and reaching out for support can pave the way toward healing and resilience. Embrace the journey towards a calmer and more empowered self.

31/01/2026

Healing from infidelity is a journey marked by pain and questioning one's worth and value. You may be wondering if you can ever trust again or "Why on earth, did I do that"? John Dodwell from Hope and Resilience Counselling will support you to work through that pain and shame. It's an opportunity to rebuild trust within yourself and with others. Remember, it’s okay to take your time and seek the support you need. Every step forward is a testament to your resilience. Allow yourself to feel and to heal.

30/01/2026

Anger is a powerful and often overwhelming emotion that we all experience, although we may express it differently to others. It can be a response to pain, frustration, or feelings of helplessness. Understanding the origin of our anger and overcoming it is a a journey. It is often a "Fight" stress response, when there is a threat to our personhood.

At Hope and Resilience Counselling, the focus is on recognizing what triggers these feelings and finding ways to constructively channel them. It’s essential to approach this process with empathy towards oneself.

Anger is not the enemy. It's important in how we express it. Anger is an emotion that signals a deeper need for communication, understanding, or change. Embracing this perspective can transform anger from a destructive force into a stepping stone towards greater self-awareness and understanding.

John Dodwell from Hope and Resilience Counselling can support you to process your feelings of anger and understand the "why".
Developing healthier coping mechanisms is part of the healing journey. There are countless paths to finding serenity amidst anger. Strength can be found in vulnerability. There are moments of challenge which can serve as opportunities to emerge stronger with more understanding.

Reach out to John if you are needing support managing your anger. Hope and resilience lie within, waiting to be harnessed. The journey to tranquillity lies within.

29/01/2026

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can often feel like an insurmountable mountain, but the journey to healing is not only possible but an opportunity for growth and resilience. At Hope and Resilience Counselling, John Dodwell uses a combination of Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR) and Eye Movement Integration Therapy (EMIT) to help clients work through their trauma.

For those navigating the impacts of PTSD, it's essential to recognize that progress isn't always linear. Each moment of courage to confront those overwhelming feelings, every session dedicated to self-care, and each breakthrough, no matter how minor, is a testament to the strength within. It takes tremendous bravery to face the past, but doing so opens doors to a brighter and more empowered future.

As individuals work through their experiences, it's important to take time to acknowledge and celebrate each victory along the way. Today, take a moment to recognize the resilience you possess and the milestones you achieve on your journey to recovery. Healing is a process, and every effort contributes to building a life of hope and possibility.

You are not alone in this journey. Together, a supportive community can reinforce the path to recovery and celebrate the resilience that lies within.

28/01/2026

Building and maintaining a healthy relationship can often be a challenging journey. One of the esteemed frameworks for relationship counselling is centred around the concepts developed by John and Julie Gottman, particularly their well-known “Four Horsemen.” These are the negative communication patterns that can predict the unravelling of a partnership: Criticism, Contempt, Defensiveness, and Stonewalling.

At Hope and Resilience Counselling, the goal is to address these behaviours and cultivate a more positive dialogue between partners. It’s not just about identifying issues—it's about fostering resilience and promoting understanding. By replacing the Four Horsemen with healthier communication strategies, couples can rediscover the joy and intimacy that brought them together in the first place.

Effective discussions, mutual respect, and the ability to listen can transform relationships, turning challenging interactions into opportunities for growth and connection. Building a relationship enriched with trust and open-heartedness is a journey, and learning to apply these principles can set couples on a transformative path toward deeper connection.

If you’re looking to reinforce the foundation of your relationship, consider embracing these strategies to overcome the four horsemen and enhance your bond. Healing is within reach. John Dodwell at Hope and Resilience Counselling encourages you to reach out.

27/01/2026

Discover the transformative power of hope and resilience in my post featured in Psychology Today. Learn how my counseling approach can help you navigate life's challenges with newfound strength and optimism. Let’s embark on a journey toward a brighter future together. Read more now!

John Lachlan Dodwell - Hope and Resilience Counselling, Counsellor, Turvey Park, NSW, 2650, (02) 5850 3866, John Dodwell is a counsellor. He is a member of the Australian Counselling Association. John’s background is nursing. Since 2015, John has been working in the not for profit sector as a supp...

26/01/2026

Grief is a journey that each of us navigates in our own unique way. It can feel overwhelming and isolating, as if you're carrying an insurmountable weight. At Hope and Resilience Counselling, I understand the profound and complex emotions that accompany loss. My purpose is to provide a safe space where you can express your feelings, honor your memories, and begin the healing process. Through compassionate support and active listening, I aim to help you find strength within yourself, illuminating the path toward a brighter tomorrow.

In the midst of sorrow, it's essential to hold onto hope. While healing may take time and the journey may have many ups and downs, resilience lies within us all. Every small step taken is a testament to your courage. Together, we can explore ways to navigate your grief with grace and build a foundation for lasting resilience as you move forward.

Remember, you are not alone on this path. I am here, ready to walk alongside you as you rediscover your strength and pave the way for hope in your life once more. Let this be the moment to start healing.

25/01/2026

Celebrating the incredible journey of empowerment through NDIS counselling! At Hope and Resilience Counselling, every story is a testament to strength and perseverance. Together, let's continue to transform challenges into opportunities for growth. Here’s to nurturing resilience and fostering hope!

24/01/2026

I believe that every relationship faces challenges, and I understand how difficult those moments can feel. I want to create a safe space where couples and families can express their feelings openly without fear of judgment. I feel that open communication is vital, and I encourage you to share what you need from your relationships so we can work together towards understanding and healing. At Hope and Resilience Counselling, I'm here to support you in fostering a stronger connection with your loved ones.

23/01/2026

In my journey at Hope and Resilience Counselling, I often reflect on how I feel amidst the challenges of life. I understand the weight of emotional burdens, and I know that reaching out for support is not always easy. I am here to remind you that your feelings are valid and deserve acknowledgment. When I listen to clients share their experiences, I am inspired by their strength and resilience.

I believe that we all need a safe space to express our thoughts and emotions without judgment. I strive to create a nurturing environment where individuals can explore their feelings and begin to cultivate their own resilience. In my practice, I aim to empower you with tools for hope, as I know how transformative it can be. Remember, taking the first step toward seeking help is a sign of strength. You are not alone in this journey.