Vanessa Kibbey
Counsellor | Educator | Early Childhood & Adolescent Support
Vanessa Kibbey
Counsellor | Educator | Early Childhood & Adolescent Support
I’m Vanessa Kibbey, a qualified counsellor and educator with over 17 years’ experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families across education and mental health.
I hold a Bachelor of Education and a Diploma of Counselling and I am a registered member of the Queensland College of Teachers as well as a professional member of the Australian Counselling Association. My work is grounded in compassion, respect and practical support. I specialise in helping people navigate challenges such as anxiety, emotional regulation, trauma, addiction, identity and behavioural concerns.
I’m also a proud mother of four boys, including identical twin adults, a teenager and a preteen so I understand the many ups and downs of growing up, parenting and life transitions. Whether you’re seeking support for your child, teen or yourself, I offer a calm, safe space where you’ll be heard without judgement.
At the core of my work is a passion for supporting young people as they navigate anxiety, identity, relationships, change and emotional regulation. I work with adolescents and children of all backgrounds, including those with additional needs or neurodivergence, using evidence-based approaches to support resilience, connection and personal growth.
I also provide early childhood intervention for children aged 0 to 9 years, aligning with the NDIS Early Childhood Approach. My early supports focus on building capacity in the child, family and support environment through developmentally appropriate therapeutic and educational strategies.
Every client is unique. I adapt my sessions to suit the individual’s needs, age and stage of development using a blend of evidence-based therapeutic methods.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT):
Helps individuals become more psychologically flexible and values-driven, even in the face of emotional distress.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT):
Supports young people in identifying and shifting unhelpful thinking patterns and building practical strategies for anxiety and mood management.
Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT):
Focuses on what’s working, building on strengths, small wins and the client’s preferred future.
Psychoeducation and Emotional Coaching:
Teaches emotional literacy, coping skills and self-regulation tools for both young people and parents.
Strengths-Based Approach:
Focuses on what the child or young person does well and builds capacity from a place of self-worth.
Trauma-Informed Practice:
Ensures sessions are safe, supportive and aware of the impacts of early trauma and stress on behaviour and brain development.
My sessions are respectful, goal-oriented and deeply client-centred — designed to help each person feel seen, supported and empowered to grow.
Away from my counselling work, I love spending time with my boys, playing netball and enjoying the outdoors. Staying active and grounded helps me bring balance and energy to my personal life and professional practice.