Gentle space for your quiet teen to bloom

Counselling support for shy, sensitive teenagers in Castle Hill, select local parks and libraries*, and Online Australia-wide.

*refer to FAQ below for more information

Book a 20-min complimentary call

Shy, reserved, quiet, introverted, sensitive. Do any of these words describe your teen?

Around 15-20% of the human population naturally has this trait (and it is also a natural occurrence in other species). Here are some signs your teen may have this trait:

  • they prefer to be on their own

  • they struggle with new situations

  • they get overwhelmed or emotional easily

  • they prefer listening than talking

  • they get easily affected by criticism

You may be wondering: is there anything wrong with my teen?

Let me reassure you that no, there is nothing wrong with your shy, sensitive teen. They simply need a different environment to thrive. And when they have it, they can thrive really, really well.

This is the heart of my practice, where I aim to cultivate a nurturing environment for shy, sensitive teenagers to thrive.

Learn more

Meet the guide: Gabriella Gandi

Hi there, my name is Gaby 👋

I am a PACFA-registered counsellor who is deeply committed to supporting shy, sensitive teenagers in a way that works for them.

As someone who used to be a shy teen, I know what it’s like to be in their shoes. Often times, the support offered to shy teens, while well-intended, are mismatched to their inherent trait. This is why I offer something different. In my perspective, your teen’s shy and sensitive nature are not flaws to be fixed, rather they are gentle strengths to be developed.

I offer a gentle space for your teen to lean into their innate gifts, navigate the challenges of having this trait, and develop self-confidence from the inside out. My approach is sensitivity-affirming and strength-based, and I’m committed to help shy, sensitive teens thrive.

Kind words for Gaby

  • “Talking to Gaby feels like having a safe space where I can truly be myself. She’s an incredible listener as she is patient, open-minded, and always present.

    Whenever we talk, she asks thoughtful, deeper questions that help me explore my own thoughts and experiences more honestly. Even when I feel my worries or feelings might sound “silly,” she never makes me feel judged. Instead, she validates what I share and helps me see my situation more clearly.

    What I appreciate most is how she can peel back the layers of my emotions and experiences, helping me understand myself better. I always leave our conversations feeling lighter, more at ease, and with new insights about myself. She never rushes or pushes; she gives me enough space to sit with my feelings while gently guiding me to reflect and grow.

    When it comes to career and life purpose, she’s the first person I’d turn to. She really tries to understand my story and what drives me, then offers perspectives that help me align my goals with my values. She can spot when something might not sit right with my true self, and she asks just the right questions to help me find clarity.

    Overall, she has made me feel heard, validated, and more connected with my own journey.”

    — RM

  • "Working with Gaby has been a transformative experience. What sets her apart is her ability to help me understand myself on a deeper level - she guided me to reframe perspectives I once disliked about myself, allowing me to see them in a brighter, more compassionate light.

    This shift has been incredibly empowering for my self-love journey, and I truly believe this is just the beginning of my healing.

    Gaby didn’t just validate my feelings, she also provided practical solutions and small, manageable steps to help me navigate my challenges. Her insight and support have given me the tools and confidence to grow, and I’m so grateful for her guidance.”

    — C

  • "Gaby’s session truly lives up to its name. It was a breath of fresh air. I entered her session feeling overwhelmed, confused and uncertain and I left the session feeling confident.

    She gently guided me through a grounding technique that instantly helped me feel a sense of calm and centered my thoughts. Her approach to her sessions not only brings clarity, but also depth and perspective to thoughts and emotions you may be struggling with. Gaby holds space beautifully, letting you be and show up in a way that feels right for you. I would highly recommend her sessions to anyone who’s feeling disconnected, stuck or uncertain. Her sessions serve as a powerful reminder that with empathy and a little bit of guidance, clarity is possible, even in midst of chaos.”

    — Ash

Schedule 20-minute complimentary call

FAQs

How much does a session cost?

1

A standard session is 60 minutes, and costs $150 AUD.

I also offer a 20-minute complimentary call to see if working together feels suitable.

Do you accept NDIS funding?

2

I can work with self-managed and plan-managed NDIS participants, using the funds for "Capacity Building - Improved Daily Living". Please get in touch if you’d like to use other types of NDIS fundings.

Where is the session conducted?

3

I offer both in-person and online appointments. For in-person appointments, I offer these options based on the clients’ preference: my counselling office at Castle Hill, a study/meeting room at a local library, or a quiet space at a local park.

Why do you offer sessions at local libraries or parks? Are they confidential?

4

Some clients prefer meeting me at a local library, since it’s seen as more neutral and less formal than a counselling office. We work in a study/meeting room within the library to ensure confidentiality.

There are also clients who prefer meeting me at a local park. This option allows us to incorporate nature into the session, which helps with regulation, emotional clarity, and a rich source of metaphor/images. The fact that we are walking or sitting next to each other also reduces the pressure of eye-contact, which I have found to be a struggle for shy, sensitive teenagers. And, if we are doing a walk-and-talk session, there is an added benefit of movement, which further helps with emotional regulation. I always try my best to find a quiet spot at the park to do the session and ensure confidentiality.

Your shy, sensitive teen doesn’t have to navigate this alone.

Let me support them to thrive, in their own way, at their own pace.