I have always had an affinity with adolescents, which is why I became a secondary school teacher and stayed committed to this work for 25 years. In 2013, I completed a Masters in Psychotherapy, greatly deepening my understanding of adolescence and my efficacy as a teacher.
I left teaching in 2020 and established a practice as a counsellor/psychotherapist for adolescents. I have always had a sense of empathy and understanding of the adolescent population, especially those who are often labelled in negative ways due to their behaviours. Adolescence is such a vulnerable time in life, one filled with so many possibilities, opportunities and pitfalls. I am here to help.
I have a thorough knowledge of adolescent development which embraces existential, neurological, biological, psychological and sociological perspectives.
The psychotherapeutic methodology I use is trauma informed and relational. The therapeutic alliance formed with the client supports the exploration of the clients lived experience and gradually enables new choices to be made. I am well equipped to work with challenging presentations and diagnosed conditions including depression, anxiety, trauma, dysfunctional relationships, identity issues, low self esteem, school avoidance, inability to self support/advocate and to support clients who are on medication for mental health concerns.
Adolescents, even those in their twenties, are still highly impacted by the figural adults in their lives. Evidence based best practice is to work with the context of an adolescent’s life where possible. This is why I offer support options for parents and caregivers of adolescents.
One such option is a workshop for parents and caregivers titled, Strengthen Your Relationship - Strengthen their World. The workshop addresses adolescent development, methods to enrich the parental/caregiver relationship to their adolescent and methods for managing challenging behaviours.
The first Strengthen workshop I ran was so successful that some participants requested I form an ongoing support group, which now meets once every few months. I intend to run the Strengthen workshop quarterly.
In 2023 I will be offering professional development opportunities for secondary school teachers including: Trauma Informed Practice in the Secondary School Setting and Relational Approaches for Improving Learning and Life Outcomes of Adolescent Students.
I am based in the Lismore CBD. I do not offer rebates on my services. For more information please visit my website or E:
Ph: 0437 671 400
Evolve Allied Healthcare
Suite 3, 15 Woodlark St, Lismore 2480
Paul Archer BA, GradDipEd, M.GestTherapy ACA (Australian Counsellors Association)
