Not Your Average Counsellor

What Are Your Thoughts on Open Relationships? Can They Work?

💭 Are open relationships the key to deeper connection, or a fast track to heartbreak? Love isn’t one-size-fits-all, and today, we’re exploring the world of non-monogamy—its challenges, its benefits, and what it really takes to make it work.
 
Inside This Episode:
❤️ What exactly is an open relationship? It’s not just one definition—every couple creates their own rules.
🔄 Why do people choose it? Freedom, variety, deeper intimacy—what’s the real motivation?
🗣️ Communication is EVERYTHING. Without trust and clear boundaries, things fall apart—fast.
😬 Let’s talk jealousy. It happens. But can it be managed?
🌱 The unexpected perks. Some couples say non-monogamy makes their connection stronger—could it?
⚠️ And the challenges. Misalignment, insecurity, and social stigma—can everyone handle it?
🤔 Is it right for YOU? Not everyone is built for open relationships, and that’s okay.
 
💬 Let’s Keep This Conversation Going! What do YOU think? Could an open relationship work, or is it a disaster waiting to happen? Slide into my DMs, email me, or share your thoughts on socials.
 
If this episode hit home, send it to a friend who needs to hear it. Until next time—stay true to you.

Is It Okay to Stay in a Relationship If You’re No Longer in Love?

Is It Okay to Stay in a Relationship If You’re No Longer in Love?
💭 What if love isn’t gone, just buried under routine? Or what if staying means sacrificing your happiness? This is one of the toughest questions in relationships, and there’s no simple answer.
 
What We’re Covering in This Episode:
❤️ How do you know if you’re truly out of love—or just stuck in a rut?
🔥 The difference between passion fading and emotional disconnection 
🤔 Why do people stay: fear, obligation, or hope for change?
💍 The role of commitment—should it outweigh emotional fulfillment? 
🧠 What happens to your mental health when you stay in a loveless relationship?
💡 Is it possible to reignite love, or is it sometimes best to walk away?
 
This episode isn’t about giving you a black-and-white answer. It’s about helping you explore your own truth. If you’re facing this question in your own life, you’re not alone—and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution.
 
💬 Let’s Keep This Conversation Going! I want to hear from YOU. Have you ever been in this situation? What did you do? Slide into my DMs, email me, or share your thoughts on socials.
 
If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who needs to hear it. Until next time—stay true to you.
 
💡 Want to know more?
Join MMI here
Follow me on socials – Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn
Explore my Services here

Welcome to the New Era of Not Your Average Counsellor!

Welcome to Not Your Average Counsellor 2025!
I’m back with bold, thought-provoking conversations on relationships, mental health, and personal growth.
This season, we’re shaking things up with big questions like: 👉 Should you stay in a relationship if you’re no longer in love? 👉 Should you tell your partner if you cheat? 👉 Have we turned co-dependency into a love story?
No sugar-coating. Just raw, honest discussions embracing life’s messy realities.
Your Voice Matters – This podcast is a two-way conversation. DM me, email me, share your thoughts. Let’s talk!
The Me, Myself, and I Mastery Program is BACK!
🚀 Next intake: March 17 – Ready for change? This 12-week program is designed to get you where you truly want to be.
Past participants have: 🔥 Reignited marriages 🔥 Launched businesses 🔥 Shifted careers with confidence ✨ Set boundaries & prioritised their mental health
I teamed up with Maria Doyle, an Instructional Designer and past MMI participant, to make the program even better.
Join us as we discuss:
What makes MMI a game-changer
How a strong learning environment fuels transformation
The power of accountability
Maria shares her first-hand experience—if you’re on the fence, this is for you!
Join the Conversation!
This season is all about real, raw, and necessary conversations that challenge your perspectives.
If today’s episode resonated with you, if you’re feeling stuck or ready for change—you’re not alone. Check the notes for MMI details.
Got thoughts? Questions? Stories? Let’s shake things up together!
Stay curious, stay bold, and most of all, stay true to you.
💡 Want to know more?
Join MMI here
Follow me on socials – Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn
Explore my Services here

Navigating Toxic Relationships: Is It Me or Is It Them? (PART 2)

Have you ever wondered if you're in a toxic relationship but just can’t quite put your finger on what feels off? Maybe you’re questioning if it’s you or them.
Toxic relationships aren’t limited to romantic partners. These unhealthy dynamics can show up with friends, family, and even colleagues. You might not even realise how much they’re affecting your mental and emotional well-being until you know what to look for.
In this episode, we continue the conversation from Part 1, where I shared Jane’s story to show you firsthand how toxic relationships can play out. In this episode, we dive further into the behaviours that make these relationships so damaging—things like manipulation, control, and emotional abuse.
If you’ve ever felt drained or confused, this episode is packed with insights to help you spot the red flags and take back control.
If you haven’t listened to Part 1 yet, I highly recommend starting there so you can fully understand how these dynamics unfold.
Take a moment for yourself today and tune in. It might just be the clarity you’ve been looking for.
If after listening, you feel you need extra support, my team and I are always here to help you navigate these challenges. Feel free to book in a ​FREE 15 minute chat​ to discuss how we can support you.
Additional Support Services
Support for Victims of Financial Abuse
Hotlines and Helplines
1800RESPECT
White Ribbon Australia
Banking SupportMost banks have dedicated services to assist victims of financial abuse. Contact your bank directly or visit their website for detailed information and support numbers.
Domestic Violence SheltersMany shelters provide financial counselling and resources to help victims regain independence. (See resources below.)
Support for Victims of Physical Abuse
Domestic Violence Shelters: Family and Domestic Violence Women’s Refuges
Hotlines and Helplines: 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or text 0458 737 732
Non-Profit Organizations: Centre for Women’s Safety & Wellbeing, White Ribbon Australia
Legal Assistance: Legal Aid Western Australia

Navigating Toxic Relationships: Is It Me or Is It Them? (PART 1)

Jane’s story is one I can’t keep to myself—it’s too important.
Jane walked into my office with a smile that hid the pain she had carried for years. On the surface, she seemed to have it all—young, intelligent, beautiful, and financially independent. But beneath that, she was grappling with a toxic relationship that drained her energy, poisoned her self-worth, and left her questioning her reality.
And Jane isn’t alone. I’ve seen more and more women, just like her, endure these same struggles. But let me be clear—this story isn’t just for women. Toxic relationships affect people of all genders—the pain, confusion, and damage that come with being in these kinds of toxic dynamics.
In this episode, I unpack what it means to be in a toxic relationship, how to recognise the signs, and most importantly, how to navigate your way through it. You’ll hear Jane’s story (shared with permission), shining a light on a new kind of toxicity that often hides in plain sight—relationships that might not involve physical violence but still take an immense toll.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
What defines a toxic relationship and how they can show up in romantic, family, or even friendship dynamics.
Why you might feel like you’re constantly walking on eggshells or doubting your feelings.
The subtle but powerful ways toxicity erodes your sense of self.
Jane’s name has been changed—not because she’s hiding, but because she’s been silenced by the legal system. This story is her voice, and mine, speaking out for those who feel they’ve lost theirs.
If you’ve ever felt like you’re navigating a relationship that’s tearing you apart instead of building you up, this episode is for you.
If after listening, you feel you need extra support, my team and I are always here to help you navigate these challenges. Feel free to book in a ​FREE 15 minute chat​ to discuss how we can support you.
Additional Support Services
Support for Victims of Financial Abuse
Hotlines and Helplines
1800RESPECT
White Ribbon Australia
Banking SupportMost banks have dedicated services to assist victims of financial abuse. Contact your bank directly or visit their website for detailed information and support numbers.
Domestic Violence SheltersMany shelters provide financial counselling and resources to help victims regain independence. (See resources below.)
Support for Victims of Physical Abuse
Domestic Violence Shelters: Family and Domestic Violence Women’s Refuges
Hotlines and Helplines: 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or text 0458 737 732
Non-Profit Organizations: Centre for Women’s Safety & Wellbeing, White Ribbon Australia
Legal Assistance: Legal Aid Western Australia
 
 

Parenting Your Parents

Are you in the position where you're not just a son or daughter anymore, but also a caregiver to your parents? This is something I’m going through myself right now, and I know how overwhelming it can feel.
In this episode I explore what this generational role reversal really means and why it happens. I also share my own experience navigating this journey, which, to be honest, I’m still figuring out.
Listen to discover:
Understanding why our roles change with our parents as they age.
How to manage the emotional rollercoaster that comes with caregiving.
The impact on family dynamics and relationships, especially with siblings.
Practical tips for managing your own well-being, and finding support.
Whether you’re already in this role or seeing it on the horizon, this episode offers insights and advice to help you navigate this space with empathy, patience, and strength.
If after listening, you feel you need extra support, my team and I are always here to help you navigate these challenges. Feel free to book in a FREE 15 minute chat to discuss how we can support you.
I hope you enjoy this episode! Let me know, share your thoughts on stories and tag @veevincitherapist
If you aren’t following me on the socials, I invite you to join me on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.
And finally check out my counselling practice and services offered here.

Navigating Conflict: Surviving Relationship 'Spats' and 'Tiffs' with Your Sanity Intact

Let’s face it—every relationship has its share of arguments. Whether it's over something small like leaving the toothpaste cap off or bigger issues like money, disagreements are totally normal. But here’s the thing: conflict doesn’t have to be a bad thing. When handled right, it can actually bring you closer!
In this episode I talk about why these arguments happen and, more importantly, how to get through them without losing your cool.
Here’s a bit of what we cover:
Why conflicts happen: Understanding the root cause is key.
What emotions drive your reactions: Recognising these can make a huge difference.
Simple strategies to handle arguments better: A few easy changes can turn things around.
If you’ve ever felt stuck in the same old arguments or just want to handle conflict better, this one is for you!
I hope you enjoy this episode! Let me know, share your thoughts on stories and tag @veevincitherapist
If you're interested in couples therapy? Check out my Creating Intimacy counselling program that has helped more than 100 couples regain connection, passion, respect, understanding and trust.
If you aren’t following me on the socials, I invite you to join me on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.
And finally check out my counselling practice and services offered here.

Parenting Partners: Navigating Parenthood Together

This one is for couples who have embarked or are about to embark on the exhilarating roller-coaster ride of parenthood – the ups, the downs, and everything in between.
Join me and Chelsea Morgan, (Counsellor, Teacher, Rapid Transformational Therapist, and Mum) as we share practical tips, tools, and insights to help you navigate the unpredictable waters of parenthood with resilience and unity.
We discuss:
How you and your partner can remain a team in the transition to and throughout parenthood
The value of surrender
The effects of sleep deprivation and juggling caregiving responsibilities, and how to handle these challenges
Navigating identity shifts and keeping romance alive amidst the chaos (spoiler alert: it can be done, it just looks different)
Practical frameworks and conversation prompts to minimise reactivity and defensiveness
Ways to divvy up parenting responsibilities fairly
How to make time for self-care without feeling like you’re neglecting your family
The importance of leaning on support networks when the going gets tough
and so much more!
No matter where you are in your parenthood journey, if you’re keen to build a stronger bond with your partner and create a supportive, stable and enjoyable environment for your family, this episode is perfect for you.
I hope you enjoy this episode! Let me know, share your thoughts on stories and tag @veevincitherapist
If you're interested in couples therapy? Check out my Creating Intimacy counselling program that has helped more than 100 couples regain connection, passion, respect, understanding and trust.
Additionally, if you would like to know more about Counsellor, Chelsea Morgan and the support she offers check out our website and reach out to book in a session.
If you aren’t following me on the socials, I invite you to join me on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.
And finally check out my counselling practice and services offered here.

Intimacy: More Than Just a Wink-Wink, Nudge-Nudge

When you hear the word intimacy, what comes to mind? If your thoughts go straight to the bedroom, you're not alone. But intimacy is so much more than what happens between the sheets. In my latest podcast episode I sit down with Sexologist Erika Shaw for an open and honest conversation about the true essence of intimacy.
We’ll chat about:
The real deal on intimacy: It’s not just about the physical stuff.
Creating intimacy: What you really need to build a strong connection.
Red flags: How to know if true intimacy is missing in your relationship.
Self-love: Why your relationship with yourself is the key to intimacy with your partner.
Emotional connection: Tips that actually work to strengthen your bond.
Communication: How to talk to each other to boost intimacy.
Reigniting the spark: Finding desire in what you already have instead of looking for something new.
So, if you’re curious about deepening your relationship or just want to understand intimacy better, this episode is perfect for you. Tune in and learn how to connect more deeply with yourself and your partner through our juicy conversation.
I hope you enjoy this episode! Let me know, share your thoughts on stories and tag @veevincitherapist
If you're interested in couples therapy? Check out my Creating Intimacy counselling program that has helped more than 100 couples regain connection, passion, respect, understanding and trust.
Additionally, if you would like to know more about Sexologist, Erika Shaw and the support she offers check out our website and reach out to book in a session.
If you aren’t following me on the socials, I invite you to join me on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.
And finally check out my counselling practice and services offered here.

Evolution of Priorities: How and Why They Change in Relationships

You know that feeling when everything in your relationship feels just right? But then, suddenly, things start to shift, and you're left wondering why?
Well, it often comes down to evolving priorities.
In this podcast episode, I explore why our priorities shift and how this impacts our relationships, because relationships aren't static, they grow and change just like we do. Understanding these changes can help you navigate your relationship more smoothly and keep it thriving.
I’ll also:
discuss the different stages of a relationship and how our priorities shift through each phase – from the early Honeymoon Period, when everything feels new and exciting, to navigating significant life events that can test even the strongest of bonds;
share real-life stories and practical tips to help you manage these stages and life transitions. For example, I'll talk about how a couple might handle a career change, the arrival of a new baby, health challenges, or pursuing a new passion; and
chat about so much more!
Listen now to learn more about how to keep your relationship strong amidst all the evolving priorities and changes life throws your way.
I hope you enjoy this episode! Let me know, share your thoughts on stories and tag @veevincitherapist
If you're interested in couples therapy? Check out my Creating Intimacy counselling program that has helped more than 100 couples regain connection, passion, respect, understanding and trust.
If you aren’t following me on the socials, I invite you to join me on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.
And finally check out my counselling practice and services offered here.