About Kerrie
A little more about me
I've always been curious about people, the stories we carry, and the different ways we experience and make sense of the world.
I'm neurodivergent myself, and my own experiences have influenced how I understand identity, belonging, expectations and the importance of being accepted as we are.
I'm also a lifelong gamer. My gaming journey began with the Commodore 64, and I've been exploring virtual worlds ever since. I love discovering new games, immersing myself in their stories and exploring the possibilities they offer. Cyberpunk 2077 is a particular favourite.
These interests and experiences are not separate from who I am professionally. They influence the questions I ask, the connections I make and the way I think about therapy.
I created Exceptionally You because I wanted the freedom to bring more of myself into my work, while making space for others to do the same.
What Sets Me Apart
Lived experience alongside professional experience
Being neurodivergent gives me a personal perspective on navigating a world that doesn't always accommodate different ways of thinking, communicating and experiencing life.
But my experience is only my experience. I don't assume I understand someone simply because we share a diagnosis or identity.
I bring my lived experience alongside my professional knowledge, with curiosity and a willingness to listen.
A genuine connection with gaming
Gaming isn't something I discovered as a therapeutic technique. It's been part of my life since childhood.
I understand how meaningful games and special interests can be, whether they offer connection, comfort, creativity, achievement or simply the joy of exploring something you love.
I bring that understanding into my therapeutic work without assuming that gaming is right for everyone.
A different relationship with expertise
I have professional knowledge, training and experience, but I don't believe that makes me the expert on someone else's life.
I value collaboration, autonomy and understanding that people are the experts in their own experiences.
I don't expect people to communicate, participate or express themselves in one particular way. I'm interested in discovering what works together.
Professional Background
I've worked with children, young people and families throughout my career, with a particular focus on complex trauma and its impact on relationships, emotional wellbeing and development.
My work has involved supporting young people navigating significant adversity and working alongside families, carers and other professionals to better understand their experiences and needs.
These experiences have shaped my understanding of the importance of safety, relationships and the environments in which people live.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker (AMHSW), with training in Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. I continue to develop my knowledge and skills through professional development, consultation and reflective practice.
Qualifications and Professional Memberships
Accredited Mental Health Social Worker (AMHSW)
Member of the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW)
Trained in Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy
Member of the EMDR Association of Australia (EMDRAA)
Ongoing professional development in trauma-informed and neurodivergent-affirming practice.