Somatic counselling and trauma therapy

Hi, I'm Erica

I believe healing is a deeply individual process. My integrative and deeply compassionate approach honours each person’s story, body and cultural background, creating space for resilience, reconnection and growth.

With more than 30 years’ experience as a social worker, counsellor, advocate and clinical supervisor, I bring deep compassion, cultural sensitivity and clinical expertise to counselling and psychotherapy. My postgraduate studies in counselling are complemented by extensive training across a range of therapeutic modalities.

I have supported people across all stages of life, from early childhood through to later life, and worked within diverse multicultural and multifaith communities. My practice is grounded in trauma-informed care, with a strong focus on supporting recovery from trauma and related mental health challenges.

Fluent in English and Spanish, I offer counselling and psychotherapy in both languages, helping ensure language and cultural understanding contribute to a safe and inclusive therapeutic experience.

Services

Sessions may include conversation, mindful movement, or quiet reflection - whatever best supports your process in a way that feels safe, authentic, and empowering.

Individual Counselling

I provide counselling and and psychotherapy for people across all stages of life, drawing from a rich integration of psychological and somatic (body-based) approaches.

Tailored to your needs and offered face-to-face or online, sessions provide safe, focused support to build nervous system regulation and respond to challenges more effectively.

Group Therapy

Group therapy brings people together in a safe, supportive environment to explore shared experiences, build understanding and develop practical ways to manage life’s challenges.

Guided sessions offer opportunities for connection, reflection and learning from others, while respecting each person’s individual needs and pace.

I offer professional supervision for counsellors and social workers, providing a confidential and supportive space to reflect on your practice, explore complex cases and strengthen your professional skills.

I can also support you with work-related stress, burnout, professional boundaries, and personal and professional development, helping you maintain your wellbeing while continuing to provide thoughtful, ethical care to your clients.

Professional Supervision

My approach

I provide counselling and psychotherapy for people across all stages of life, drawing from a rich integration of approaches, including:

• Narrative Therapy – exploring the stories that shape our lives and creating space for new meanings.

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) – learning to accept thoughts and feelings while moving toward what truly matters.

• Somatic Approaches – working with the body to restore safety, presence, and connection.

• EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) – supporting the brain and body to heal from traumatic or distressing memories.

• Polyvagal-Informed Therapy – helping regulate the nervous system to build a greater sense of calm and safety.

• Play, Art and/or Dance Movement Therapy – using movement and creative expression as pathways to healing and self-discovery.

About Somatic Therapies

Rather than relying on conversation alone, Somatic Therapies also pay attention to physical sensations, breathing, posture, movement and patterns of tension that may be linked to stress, trauma or difficult life experiences.

In my practice, I may draw on approaches such as grounding, body awareness, gentle movement, breath-based work and relaxation techniques, depending on your needs and comfort.

These practices are introduced gradually and with care, helping you feel more present in your body, better understand your responses and develop practical ways to regulate stress and support emotional wellbeing

Somatic Therapies focus on the connection between the body, emotions and nervous system.

"Erica has been an incredible support on my healing journey. Her listening, compassion, understanding, and non-judgmental approach have helped me feel safe, seen, and truly supported every step of the way."

Siri C.

★★★★★

Acknowledgment of Country

I acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on the Sunshine Coast, the Kabi Kabi (Gubbi Gubbi) and Jinibara peoples, and pay our respects to Elders past, present, and emerging.

I am committed to creating a space that is welcoming, inclusive, and respectful of all people, including the LGBTQIA+ community.

Contact

Erica Fernandez

0427 453 208

elftol@gmail.com