Our Team
of YOUth specialists
Elana Volanakis (she/her)
Hi I'm Elana, and I've been working with Young People for over a decade. I'm a PACFA registered Clinical Counsellor who specialises in working with young people.
Read more about me below!
Elana's Story
Hi, I'm Elana and I have been working with young people for over ten years. I've always been passionate about helping young people and I think that comes from my own experiences growing up when mental health was much more stigmatised than it is today. I witnessed friends and family members struggle with mental health and not know how to get help or where to turn. Today, mental health stigma has definitely improved, but I still think we have a way to go.
Over the past decade I have met and worked with many different young people and communities. I have been so privileged to have had a glimpse into these young people's worlds, and they have taught me so much, but mostly, to be humble. I may specialise in youth mental health but I am not an expert in every individual's life. I believe that YOU are the expert in your own life, experiences and struggles.
I have worked with youth in different capacities including; at headpace, drug and alcohol rehabilitation services, homelessness services, and with remote and city-based First Nations communities. I have worn many hats as a counsellor, clinical manager, youth worker, service manager, and community development leader.
I'm a trained clinical counsellor specialising in young people and I studied a bachelor of arts-psychology with a diploma of education. I then went on to do my post-graduate diploma in Clinical Counselling specialising in child and adolescent counselling.
What is a session like?
Now that you've read the boring stuff, let's get to the interesting part - what are my sessions actually like?
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is really important and so you can expect a lot of 'getting to know what makes you... you'. When appropriate, I find that humour is also really important and can actually make more difficult topics approachable and easier to talk about. Of course, there is a serious side and I tailor each session to the individual, using a range of therapy modalities (sometimes, more than one in a session) to help you through really difficult stuff. I also use different physical tools and like to be creative in this way, again, to suit your needs eg. videos, drawing, walk & talk etc.
I think that it's really important to meet the client where they're at and I don't subscribe to a 'one size fits all' approach'. Full disclosure though - I do like to challenge you a little bit and am transparent with the fact that therapy isn't an easy journey, but one of the best steps you can take.
Starting therapy with someone you don't know can be scary but I'm here to support you every step of the way!
What am I like?
I like to think I have a good sense of humour and love to have a laugh. I don't drink coffee which shocks a lot of people as I naturally have a lot of energy. But don't let that fool you.. I also love my sleep and I am not a morning person.
My hobbies include; listening to music, beach swims, reading a good book and walks with my mini Labradoodle, Banjo.
I am a huge advocate for marginalised communities including First Nations people, people who use AOD (alcohol and Other Drugs) and LGBTQIA+ communities. I have a sneaker obsession and my friends would say I have a big collection, but I could always add another pair (of course). I have a huge sweet tooth and my favourite food is ice-cream but I'm lactose intolerant - go figure!
Call, text, DM or email today!
Starting therapy can be nerve-wracking!
Let's have a chat so that I can answer any questions you may have and book you in.
0424 525 654
