A Partner in the Parenting Journey
Hi, I’m Susanne Gerstmyer — counsellor and psychotherapist, author, wife and mum of four.
I know first-hand how exhausting parenting can be. The mental load, the big feelings, the never-ending-to-do list and the pressure to hold everything together.
I also know the "parenting fails". The times I reacted when I should have paused, or the moments I was so busy managing logistics that I missed what my child was actually trying to tell me. Honestly, I’ve messed up more times than I care to remember. And I’m still in the trenches, doing my best, making mistakes and learning as I go.
I do this work because, after decades of parenting, I’ve come to understand that it isn’t what we do as parents that matters, it’s who we are. It’s about connection and relationships. This belief underlies everything I share, and how I show up in the therapy room.
My approach is born from my lived experience and a genuine understanding of what actually helps when family life feels heavy.
I offer parent counselling and therapy in-person in Mount Colah and online, helping parents feel steadier, clearer and more connected at home.
What I Bring
PACFA Certified Practising Counsellor
Master of Psychotherapy and Counselling (completion Nov 2026)
Committed to ongoing professional development and regular clinical supervision
Clinical Qualifications
Trained facilitator of the Circle of Security© and Tuning In To Kids® Parenting Programs (CoC International/Tuning In To Kids)
Certificate in Child and Adolescent Mental Health (Sydney Family Therapy Training Institute)
ASIST Suicide Intervention Training (LivingWorks)
Specialised Training
Relationship Educator at Relationships Australia
Clinical work at Barnardos Children and Family Centre
Over six years experience supporting individuals and parents (in a variety of capacities) through anxiety, grief, behavioural challenges and family stress.
Practical Experience
My book, Breaking Free of Busy, was drawn from research and conversations with hundreds of parents about the practical, mental and emotional challenges of family life
Passionate about helping parents create healthy rhythms and real connection.
Author & Advocate
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) to work with the thoughts keeping you stuck.
Integrated Approach
Emotion Focused (EF) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) to build emotional regulation and resilience.
Internal Family Systems (IFS) to understand the parts of you that show up under pressure
Circle of Security© and Tuning In To Kids® evidence-based parenting programs to strengthen connection.
Values and Faith
My Christian faith shapes the way I show up, with compassion, patience and hope.
I believe every person is deeply valued, and I bring that belief into every session.
You can expect a safe, respectful and non-judgemental space where you can be yourself, be heard and take the next step forward.
All are welcome here.
You don’t have to carry the weight of parenting alone.
Let’s work together to create a calmer and more connected family life.