Haia Counselling
About Me
Celina Umow
Counselling Psychotherapist
About Me
A little more about me.
I am many things and so are you. Throughout our lives, we move through different roles and identities. Some have always been part of who we are, some have evolved or faded over time, and others are new and still unfolding. I believe these roles, together with the relationships we hold, can profoundly influence our wellbeing. They can support, strengthen, and sustain us, or leave us feeling burdened, disconnected, and depleted.
Our emotional experiences are shaped not only by life's inevitable challenges and stressors, but also by the people around us and the connections we share. Yet among all of these relationships, the one we have with ourselves deserves the greatest care, attention, and compassion.
When we begin to understand ourselves with greater curiosity and kindness, we create space for growth, healing, and meaningful change.
As a therapist, I bring both professional knowledge and lived experience to our work together. As a mother, daughter, wife, sister, friend, carer, teacher, student, woman, and fellow human, I understand that life can be both complex and challenging. It is a privilege to sit with and walk alongside my clients and support them on their unique journeys.
How I Work
My approach
Safe & Non-Judgmental
Through gentle talk therapy and a collaborative, empowering approach, I offer a safe space to share thoughts, feelings, and experiences freely.
Tailored to You
I adopt a transparent and eclectic approach, drawing on a range of therapeutic modalities and tailoring my methods to each individual's unique needs.
Empowering Growth
Whether you seek relief from emotional pain, greater self-awareness, or practical coping strategies, the growth fostered through counselling can be fundamental to wellbeing.
A common thread running through many clients' experiences is shame and self-doubt. My work focuses on helping clients reframe unhelpful internal narratives and soften the inner critic, creating space for greater self-compassion, resilience, and ease.
The Space
A beautiful, calming space
Located in Gardenvale, my practice is thoughtfully designed to be a safe, welcoming, and grounding environment. From the moment you step in, the intention is to help you feel at ease, comfortable, and ready to focus on your wellbeing.
Whether we are meeting in person or connecting via Telehealth, I strive to create a therapeutic space that offers comfort, privacy, and a sense of calm to support your journey.
Background
Experience & Qualifications
Credentials
Master of Counselling
Bachelor of Teaching
Registered with the Australian Counselling Association (ACA Level 2)
Over 20 years experience in education & wellbeing
Ongoing professional development & current research practice
Experience
I hold a Master of Counselling and am a registered counsellor with the Australian Counselling Association (ACA Level 2). Driven by a genuine passion for helping others, I remain current with the latest research and engage in ongoing professional development to ensure the highest standard of care.
In addition to my counselling qualifications, I am a teacher with over 20 years of experience in the Department of Education. I have worked across a wide range of roles, consistently centring my practice around wellbeing. My collaborative, compassion-focused approach has shaped my work with students, parents, and colleagues alike.
My expertise is particularly strong in the areas of parenting, grief and loss, and living with illness, carers fatigue and compassion fatigue. I work with people of all ages across a broad range of concerns, including low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, workplace challenges, body image concerns, family and relationship difficulties, and navigating life transitions.
The Story Behind the Name
About the name Haia
Haia - my mother's name - a name which means alive, living, life.
Mother - in the archetypal sense, is nurturing, accepting and unconditionally loving, supportive and non-judgmental.
Guided by a desire to help others live with greater authenticity, alignment, and ease, I chose a practice name inspired by my mother's name and the meaning of motherhood.
It reflects the warmth, compassion, and support at the heart of my work, while honouring her legacy and our enduring bond.
I also recognise that experiences of motherhood and caregiving are deeply varied, and I hold great respect and sensitivity for those whose journeys have been shaped by absence, loss, complexity, or pain.
Honouring your personal path to wellbeing
where you can be heard, feel understood, and move forward at your own pace.