Irene HughesAASW

Irene Hughes offers calm, faith-informed support for people feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, relationship strain, parenting pressures or trauma. She frames sessions around each person’s values and goals, and works at a pace that feels manageable. Irene’s approach can include spiritual discussion and prayer for those who want it, while still staying grounded in practical strategies to help day-to-day life.

With 15 years of experience in Australia, Irene combines Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and client-centred therapy to help people notice what matters and take small steps toward it. Sessions focus on clear, simple tools for handling difficult thoughts and feelings, and on improving communication and connection where relationships are strained.

People who want to bring their Christian faith into therapy will find space for Scripture and spiritual reflection when requested. Irene emphasises dignity and worth, and she works to help clients reconnect with a sense of purpose and identity aligned with their beliefs.

Practical topics often covered include parenting stress, fertility and fatherhood concerns, body image and caregiver burden. She also supports people dealing with grief, shame, trust issues and isolation.

Irene aims for collaboration in every session. She listens first, helps set achievable goals, and suggests strategies that fit a person’s daily life and faith commitments.

How ACT and Client-Centred Work Online

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps people notice difficult thoughts and feelings without letting them stop what matters most. It uses simple exercises to clarify values and practise flexible actions that match those values, which can help with anxiety, stress and parenting demands. Client-centred therapy focuses on listening, empathy and meeting each person where they are; it gives space for clients to lead the conversation and reflect on what they need.

Finding the right approach is a team effort. Irene will work with each person to choose techniques that fit their goals, background and faith preferences. She aims to adapt exercises so they are practical and doable between sessions, and checks in regularly to see what is helpful.

Confirm the exact online session options before booking, as formats are not specified in the profile. Many people find online work helps fit therapy into busy days, makes follow-up easier, and allows for shorter check-ins when needed. Online sessions can support work on values, stress management and relationship communication without requiring travel, making it easier to keep therapy consistent alongside everyday life.