Our counsellors at Bond University provide a free, confidential counselling to all currently enrolled students.
If you are struggling with a lack of motivation, your mental health, or transition to University, one-on-one sessions with our counsellors may assist you in further developing the skills you need to cope with these challenges.
The number of sessions will be worked out between you and your counsellor. Usually, counselling is short-term. However, students may be referred to appropriate services off-campus if long-term or specialised treatment is required.
Counselling is only available to current students and staff of Bond University. With your permission, we may at times liaise with other wellbeing or academic staff within the university.
Our counsellors
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Barry Sierra | BA (Hons), MAPS, Registered Psychologist
Above all else, my aim is to provide a safe, trusting and respectful environment where you feel comfortable in sharing your hopes, strengths and struggles. I work primarily from an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Schema Therapy perspective; what this looks like in a counselling session is us spending a lot of time exploring the values and strengths that you already have and can use to help navigate difficult life events and experiences. We might also focus on exploring new ways of relating to the things you might be struggling with, new skills to practice, and hopefully an increased capacity to find a way through what brings you to therapy. My counselling approaches recognises the unique experience of each person, and I hope we will be able to work together to create a helpful and valuable therapy space. I have a particular interest in working with survivors of trauma, anxiety, depression, and understanding the psychological practices, habits and concepts that build resilience and positive mental health. I hold my general registration as a psychologist with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and have been fortunate to gain experience in private practice, education and health settings in the years before coming to Bond University.
Prior to training as a psychologist, my first career was as a professional nature guide in Africa, Southeast Asia and the Persian Gulf. So, when I am not researching and reading up on psychology, you will find me out exploring the beautiful National Parks around the Gold Coast, kayaking, climbing, playing guitar, and trying to surf, usually unsuccessfully.
All of you will be welcome here and I look forward to the opportunity to work with you.
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Jasmine Melling | BSW, MAASW, Social Worker
I bring over 12 years of experience in social work spanning not-for-profit organisations, Aboriginal corporations, and hospital-based mental health care. Throughout my career, I have supported young people and families navigating complex challenges such as domestic violence, complex intergenerational trauma, homelessness, child abuse, substance misuse, and severe mental illness. A significant part of my early career was spent working in partnership with remote Aboriginal communities in Central Australia, an invaluable experience that deepened my understanding of intersectionality and the systemic factors shaping wellbeing. This work also cemented my trauma-informed, culturally competent and holistic approach to practice.
In my most recent role, supporting involuntary hospital patients experiencing severe and chronic mental health conditions, I gained a deep understanding of the importance of preventative and early intervention work. I am passionate about helping students lead meaningful lives and reach their full potential, avoiding unnecessary suffering through timely support.
Currently pursuing a Master’s in Mental Health (Psychotherapy), I combine evidence-based practices with a warm, empathetic, and collaborative approach, fostering a safe and supportive space for students to discuss and overcome any challenges they may be facing.
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Ryan Healy | BSW, Accredited Mental Health Social Worker
I have previously worked in various mental health settings which include both private and public hospital settings, homelessness and domestic violence response, veteran and first responder therapeutic intervention and have most recently worked at Currumbin Clinic which is an acute psychiatric facility. I have experience working with a wide range of presentations, but have special interest in working with trauma, mood and anxiety disorders, substance misuse, grief and loss, men’s health and looking at strategies to overcome distress and emotional dysregulation.
I hope to bring a fresh set of eyes and a new dynamic to the already brilliant selection of student support here at Bond and hope that by encouraging students to focus on their mental health, they may see more success in all areas of their life here at the University.
Making an appointment
To make an appointment you can either call or email the Student Counselling service on the contact details below.
Counselling appointments are usually 50 minutes duration.
If you are unable to make your appointment please call or email the Student Counselling office to cancel or reschedule.
Contact us
Location:
Building 9, in the Student Court opposite Don's Tavern
Bond University Robina 4229
Tel: +617 5595 4043
Email: [email protected]
Opening hours
Monday - Friday
8:30am - 5pm
Student Counselling is not available on weekends, public holidays or after hours
If you require support for reasonable adjustments to study for a medical condition or disability, please discuss this with the Accessibility & Inclusion Advisor by lodging an application using BondAbility.
In need of immediate support?
You can access mental health support after hours from the Bond University Crisis Line. The Crisis Support Team can help relieve emotional distress and provide coping mechanisms outside of the operational hours of Bond's onsite counselling service, including at night and on weekends. Students, or staff supporting students, can call or text the Crisis Line 24/7 for any urgent crisis support.
Call 1300 359 504 or text 0485829136.
This is not an external call line, and all calls will be referred to the University Wellbeing Team to follow up where necessary. If you prefer to seek external help, you can contact Lifeline 24/7 on 13 11 14.