Matt Allen - Counselling Tai chi Practitioner
My goal is to provide compassionate, insightful, and personalized consultations that support individuals on their journey toward healing, growth, and self-discovery. Rooted in the principles of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy and enriched by the wisdom of Eastern philosophies, my practice is dedicated to helping clients find meaning, foster resilience, and reconnect with their inner strengths.
About me
Hi Guys, it’s a pleasure, my name is Matthew and for about 25 years, I travelled Australia as a laborer taking on whatever work I could find, mostly construction. Along the way, I met people from all walks of life, each with their own unique stories and struggles. I was often struck by the rich diversity of human experiences, the trials and triumphs that shape who we are. These years taught me to listen deeply and to appreciate the endless variety of paths people walk.
As a Tai Chi practitioner, I’ve walked solitary roads where days and weeks would pass without speaking to anyone. That solitude gave me space for introspection, contemplation, and ultimately, compassion for the human experience. Hopefully what I have learned can help others struggling with their life experiences.
My journey has shown me that no matter where we come from, we all have the capacity for growth and renewal. I focus on providing a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their own unique challenges, using Person-Centered, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy to help us discover new perspectives, find hope, and create positive change.
Eastern Influences
For many decades the philosophies of Daoism and Zen Buddhism have been the lens through which I view the world. Daoism that encourages us to move in harmony with the natural flow of events in our lives and the deep introspective practices of Zen Buddhism, mindfulness and simplicity that shape my preparation and practice.
There is a physical space that I cultivate through Zen in order to listen and my reliance on physical routine and awareness of the body and mind are cornerstones of my preparation.
As a counsellor I practice Modern evidence-based and ethically informed Person-Centered Therapy that is still reflective of my roots in Buddhist Psychology, a holistic approach to understanding the mind that emphasizes mindfulness, the impermanent and interconnected nature of experience, and the cultivation of wisdom and compassion to reduce suffering.
Education
I’m currently studying a Bachelor’s in Counselling and have spent several years volunteering in crisis support, helping people through some of their toughest life changing moments.
For deeper insight into my influences I’d love if you checked out some articles on how I go about things.