Meet Asian Australian Counsellor, Maria Bui

We know that it's not always easy trying to work out which therapist we might like to work with: Because the decision isn't just about where they're located and when they're available, but there's a bit more of a human, relational element to the decision too.

So here at Shapes and Sounds, we want to help make that process just a little easier.

Every month, we'll be introducing a therapist from the Asian Australian Mental Health Practitioner List to help you gain a bit more insight into who you feel might be a good fit for you or someone that you know.

This month we're excited to connect you with Maria Bui who is a counsellor offering services in NSW and Telehealth Australia Wide. We hope you enjoy connecting with Maria below!

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1. What led you to choosing psychology as a career?

I always had an interest in helping others growing up. Naturally in high school, I was the person a lot of my friends turned to for support. However being of a young age I was limited on how I can best support them with their mental health struggles, which sparked an interest in wanting to understand them better and how to provide the best support. I also had a conversation with someone who was studying psychology and mentioned it may be an area I should consider provided my interest in wellbeing.

2. What is your unique cultural heritage?

My family migrated from Vietnam and I was born in Australia

3. What are your areas of specialty and what kind of frameworks do you work from?

I work from a person-centered approach, meeting the client where they are and what their needs may be. I draw on a mix of CBT, ACT, and motivational interviewing frameworks to find the approach that best suits the client. I also enjoy the use of creative therapies if that's something you'd be open to exploring. It's quite useful in exploring what can arise when traditional talk therapy doesn't seem to be working. I like to work collaboratively with clients to find what feels right for them and empower them to take charge of their own mental health journey.

4. What kind of clients are you best able to support?

I work a lot with young people but am open to welcoming clients from all walks of life. I can help you navigate anxiety, identity, and family dynamics to help you find the life balance that works best for you.

5. If you could be your own therapist right now, what do you think you would say to yourself?

I would tell myself to take it easy, trust the process and enjoy the little moments.

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Connect with Maria via our Asian Australian Mental Health Practitioner List HERE.

Alternatively, if you feel like Maria may be a good fit for someone that you know, be sure to forward this page on to them too. Let us continue to not only support ourselves but all those around us too!

If you require urgent assistance, please do not contact Maria or any of the practitioners on this list. Instead, please call emergency services on 000 or call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Shapes and Sounds does not recommend or endorse Maria or any of the practitioners listed on the Asian Australian Mental Health Practitioner List.

Please always consult your GP before making changes to your mental health care plan.