Counselling & Psychotherapy Melbourne | South Yarra & Elwood
  • Home
  • Counselling Approach
    • Person Centered Psychotherapy
    • Emotion Focused Therapy
    • Existentialist Counselling
    • Transpersonal Counselling
    • Dreams & Nightmares
    • Our Therapeutic Relationship
  • Your Sessions
  • About Ilana
  • Workshops
  • Testimonials
  • Contact Me
  • Blog of Sorts

About Me

I have spent over 17 years studying human and cultural dymanics. Early on, I discovered that psychological processes obey an underlying emotional logic, which is stored in the body as energy. I became fascinated with modern and ancient techniques for healing these hidden emotions we carry deep inside ourselves.

My commitment to psychotherapy is powered by one core belief: that becoming self-aware and discovering our own true nature is the great opportunity of our lives. 

Western Training Meets Eastern Philosophy

After growing up in Australia, I spent many years studying, working and traveling abroad. While at the University of Toronto, I attended courses in Psychology, Philosophy and Literature. Relocating to London, I completed a BA in Literature (Hons) from the University of London. I went on to complete an MA from New York University's school of Culture, Education & Human Development. 

At that time New York was in the midst of the internet boom, and I launched a successful six-year corporate career working for Yahoo and R/GA. Literacy being a serious concern in Harlem's schools, I volunteered over eight years in New York City teaching children to read and write. Later, I started a freelance writing business called Freshly Squeezed Ideas.

In 2006 I underwent a major life transition, and my own healing journey began. I relocated to South-East Asia for three years where I was fortunate enough to learn from living masters of Buddhism, Taoism and Advaita Vedanta (Non-Dualism). Living in monasteries and jungles, studying in schools and temples, a more holistic view of myself had emerged. 

Psychotherapy & Counselling

In 2009, I returned to Melbourne to become a professional psychotherapist. I completed a Diploma at the Phoenix Institute with a special interest in Jungian Analysis, and received additional training in Existential Counselling, Emotion Focused Therapy, and Sandplay. Currently, in 2014, I completed an MA in Counselling and Human Services at La Trobe University.

I see my ongoing development as both a benefit and a responsibility of my profession. I travel nationally and internationally each year to meet with thought leaders and professionals in my field. I attend conferences and retreats for my own balance and growth. 

Perhaps the most valuable thing I bring to my private and group work is the richness of my life experience, and the intensity, passion and empathy it has instilled in me. I never cease from exploring the human psyche, and my clients benefit from my thirst for knowledge.


Qualifications & Training

DEGREES, DIPLOMAS AND CERTIFICATES
Master of Counselling and Psychological Health, LaTrobe University, Melbourne
Master of Media, Culture & Communication, New York University, New York
BA Hons, Literature, University of London (UCL)
Diploma of Transpersonal Counselling, Phoenix Institute, Melbourne
Certificate of Emotion Focused Therapy
Certificate in Sandplay Therapy for Children and Adults

ADDITIONAL PROFESSIONAL TRAINING & INTERESTS
Existentialist Psychotherapy
Grief & Bereavement
Dream Work (Founder of Dream Lab)

EASTERN INFLUENCES
Buddhism
Advaita Vedanta (the Non-Dual path)
Meditation & Mindfulness

TEACHING & GROUP FACILITATION
I teach Dream Lab's annual education program, combining Jungian analysis with dream science and research from around the world. I serve as Melbourne's Representative for the International Association for the Study of Dreams.

AWARDS
1st Place, Cancer Council Arts Awards (Short Story), 2011
3rd Place, Cancer Council Arts Awards (Short Story), 2009

PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATION
Member of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA), Level 2
Melbourne's Representative to the International Association for the Study of Dreams (IASD)
Picture

"Discover the wisdom you already have, and life will become a great adventure." 
~ Ilana


Appointments & Enquiries
ilana@dreamlab.com.au


Powered by Create your own unique website with customizable templates.