About
If you’re like many of my clients, you currently feel as though you are merely existing, moving through life without a clear sense of purpose or joy. You're struggling with low self-esteem, anxiety, constantly doubting yourself, and feeling stuck in a cycle of indecision. It's a familiar story for many women, taught to prioritise others' needs and emotions over their own. If you resonate with this, you're not alone; there is a way to break free from these constraints.
Hi, I’m Julie Gullickson.
I am a registered counsellor and psychotherapist who helps my clients reconnect to their authentic selves, get unstuck, and find their purpose and joy.
I know what it’s like to feel that you're living on autopilot, ticking all the boxes for a good life, yet still feeling that something is missing, as this was me for years. You're doing all the right things yet still feel stuck, unfulfilled and without meaning or purpose in life.
Growing up, many of us are taught to prioritise others’ needs, to keep our heads down and to work towards life goals. This conforming to others expectations often leaves you feeling unfulfilled, unseen, and disconnected from your true self. If you've been nodding along, feeling like there's more to life than just going through the motions, you're in the right place.
Many of us are conditioned from a young age to be "good girls," to be agreeable, and to fit into roles defined by society or our families. We're often taught, both overtly and subtly, to prioritise others' needs, avoid making waves, and suppress our true feelings. This can lead to a life where we feel disconnected from ourselves, unsure of what truly makes us happy, and constantly seeking validation from external sources. Once I get X (this promotion, house, savings amount etc) I will be happy and that isn’t always the case.
Achieving our goals doesn’t always bring what we were anticipating.
You have found yourself stuck in a routine that feels safe but unfulfilling. You're working a stable job, meeting societal expectations, and doing everything "right," yet something feels missing. You feel unseen and unheard, struggling with a sense of belonging and experiencing anxiety. It's easy to lose touch with your true desires when you're always trying to please others or meet an external standard of success.
Throughout my life, I often played the role of the "good girl," seeking to please others and maintain harmony. I avoided conflict, going along with what everyone else wanted, even when it didn’t align with my own desires. I changed jobs and moved cities many times in search of finding purpose and fulfilment. Each time, after the excitement wore off, I still felt lost. Beneath the surface, I felt lost and disconnected from who I really was. I silenced my authentic self out of fear of judgement and rejection. This only deepened my struggles with low self-worth and self-esteem. I numbed my feelings with distractions, trying to fit into a mould that wasn’t meant for me.
Everything changed when I realised that true fulfilment could only come from within. I understood that if I didn’t prioritise my own needs and desires, no one else would. This awakening led me to embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. With the help of psychotherapists, I questioned my beliefs and explored my values. I opened up and challenged my limiting beliefs that had kept me stuck and I began to explore what truly made me happy. It wasn’t an easy path—there were moments of doubt and setbacks—but each step brought me closer to understanding and embracing my authentic self.
As I grew in self-awareness and confidence, I decided to pursue a career in psychotherapy and counselling. I wanted to help others navigate similar journeys, empowering them to embrace their true selves and cultivate a sense of self-worth. Through my own experiences, I’ve learned the importance of self-compassion, setting boundaries, and prioritising one’s own well-being. I know firsthand the courage it takes to break free from societal expectations, worry about how others perceive, and manage anxiety to live a life that truly resonates with who you are.
Connecting Mind, Body, and Heart
By honouring the wisdom of my mind, body and soul I have come into alignment with myself. This is why I am passionate about incorporating the mind, body and soul in any work I do with clients. I believe in the power of our three "brains"—the mind, heart, and gut. These aren't just metaphors; they're the centres of our intuition, emotions, and thoughts. My passion is helping you tap into these areas, connect with your intuition, and find the wisdom that lies within. It’s about learning to trust yourself and discovering what truly brings you joy and fulfilment.
A Little About Me
I’m curious by nature and am fascinated by the interplay between the mind, body, and emotions. This curiosity drives my approach to therapy, as I continually seek to understand how we can live more authentically and joyfully. I love learning new things—whether it’s about psychology, spirituality, or learning to ride a motorbike. I’m an avid reader, a cat lover, and a music enthusiast. Travelling opens my mind to new perspectives, and I’m passionate about helping others explore their inner worlds.
Why I Do This Work
I understand the deep, sometimes painful, yearning for more in life—the craving for something beyond the ordinary, the search for meaning, and the desire to break free from the constraints of societal norms. The women I work with often feel like they’ve been performing life rather than living it, and they’re ready to explore what’s underneath their polished exteriors.
In our work together, I encourage you to push past your comfort zones, explore your deepest desires, and embrace all aspects of yourself—including the parts you might usually hide away. This journey isn’t always easy, but it’s incredibly rewarding. It’s about embracing the full spectrum of life’s experiences—joy, pain, and everything in between.
My Approach: Compassionate, Client-Centered Support
In my counselling practice, I focus on helping individuals explore their beliefs, values, and desires. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can uncover their authentic selves and build self-worth. My goal is to support you in creating a life that reflects your true self, free from the constraints of others' expectations. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, or simply feeling lost, I'm here to guide you through your journey towards greater self-awareness and fulfilment.
Join Me on This Journey
Life is too precious to be spent feeling unfulfilled and constrained by others' expectations. I’m here to help you break free from these limitations and embrace your authentic self. By sharing my story and offering compassionate, supportive guidance, I hope to inspire and empower you to live a life that aligns with your true values and desires. Remember, the journey to self-discovery is ongoing and requires patience and self-compassion. Together, we can navigate this path and unlock your true potential.
If you’re ready to take the first step towards a more authentic and fulfilling life, I invite you to reach out. Let's work together to create the life you've been longing for, filled with joy, purpose, and genuine happiness.
My qualifications include:
• Member of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA). Member No. 17312
• Bachelor of Counselling and Psychotherapy (2022) Ikon Institute of Australia
• Integrative Somatic Trauma Therapy Certificate (2021)