Counselling for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples

Brydan is a passionate mental health clinician and criminologist who has a keen interest in working with client groups with greater mental health risks, particularly those who identify as First Nations Peoples. His interest in this area stems from his awareness of the over-representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait people within the criminal justice and mental health systems, as well as his work with offenders within the prison system, young people in Headspace and clients across both community mental health and private practice environments.

Brydan's interest in working with First Nations Peoples is not solely based on his professional experience. It is also rooted in his values of acknowledging the traditional custodians of Australia and seeking to contribute towards improving the lives of those that have been impacted by past injustices. He recognises that First Nations Peoples' social emotional wellbeing can be significantly impacted by several factors such as racial discrimination, impacts of the Stolen Generations and removal of children, unresolved trauma, economic and social disadvantage, incarceration, violence, substance misuse, separation from culture, and identity issues.

Brydan's approach to therapy is collaborative and respectful of clients' intersectional identities, including their connection to one or multiple cultures. He understands that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities have many protective factors, including cultural practices, self-determination, social connectedness, and a sense of belonging, as well as connection to land, culture, spirituality, and ancestry. Therefore, he supports a strengths-based approach to mental health and seeks to create a safe space that supports collaboratively embracing Aboriginal perspectives to better support his clients.

Brydan recognises the complex interplay of historical trauma, systemic injustices, and cultural strengths that impact First Nations Peoples' social emotional wellbeing. Therefore, he strives to promote holistic wellbeing and self-determination where relevant, by working collaboratively with his clients to address their unique needs and challenges.