Deborah "Deb" Likouras, AASW

Deborah "Deb" Likouras is a social worker and counsellor based in Australia, accredited with AASW (Australian Association of Social Workers), who brings 23 years of experience supporting people through complex life challenges. She specialises in grief, loss, trauma and bereavement counselling and has developed deep familiarity with health and hospital settings, including palliative care, cancer services and work within the NDIS.

Her practice also encompasses family work and support for adolescents and young adults, addressing concerns such as anxiety, relationship difficulties, addiction, self-esteem, parenting and coping with life changes. Deb has a broad clinical focus that includes eating and sleeping difficulties, bipolar disorder, depression, chronic illness and end-of-life matters, reflecting many years of varied service in community and health contexts.

Deb approaches therapy from a person-centred perspective, meeting clients where they are and creating a respectful, non-judgemental space to explore what matters most. She emphasises hope and practical steps forward, and is committed to walking alongside clients as they work through whatever they choose to bring to sessions. Her style blends compassion with evidence-informed techniques to support meaningful change.

Therapeutic approaches and online support

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps clients clarify personal values and build psychological flexibility by combining practical actions with mindful awareness. It is often used to support people managing anxiety, grief, stress and major life transitions by focusing on what matters most to them.

Client-centred therapy emphasises empathic listening, respect and collaboration, giving clients space to explore their thoughts and feelings at their own pace. This approach can be especially helpful for issues such as bereavement, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem and coming to terms with identity or life changes.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) examines links between thoughts, feelings and behaviour and offers structured strategies to change unhelpful patterns. It is commonly used for anxiety, depression, sleep problems, addictive behaviours and coping with chronic health challenges.

Finding the right therapeutic approach is part of the process and Deborah will work collaboratively with each client to determine the best fit based on their needs, goals and preferences. If appropriate, she will discuss options or referrals to other appropriately qualified or registered professionals and therapists.

Online therapy with Deborah is available by video call, phone session, live chat or text-based messaging, offering flexibility to fit around work, family and geographic constraints. These options make it easier to maintain continuity of care, access support from regional locations and choose the communication style that feels most comfortable.