About Kareena
My path into counselling started after a career as a circus performer. Touring and performing gave me firsthand experience of the unique challenges creatives face, especially around mental health, isolation, and the pressures of the industry. When I stepped away from performing to start a family, I felt a strong pull toward helping other creatives navigate their own struggles.
I completed a Bachelor of Counselling at ACAP and a Masters of Counselling and Psychotherapy at Western Sydney University. Now a PACFA-registered Clinical Counsellor and Psychotherapist, I divide my time between three roles: three days a week at NIDA (National Institute of Dramatic Art) as the Senior Counsellor, two days in my private practice The Manifesto, and teaching in the Western Sydney University Master’s program I studied in. The variety keeps me engaged, but it also requires strong organisation and well-structured systems.
At both NIDA and The Manifesto, I specialise in working with performers and creatives. My lived experience allows me to deeply connect with the people I support, and this perspective informs much of my work.
My counselling approach is humanistic and trauma-informed, integrating person-centred and existential therapy. I work through a social justice lens, meaning I prioritise equity, inclusion, belonging and advocacy in my practice. This involves recognising systemic barriers, addressing power imbalances, and ensuring culturally responsive care. I have recently completed my supervisor training and look forward to working with early career counsellors.
A Day in the Life of Kareena Hodgson
5:30am: Wake up
COFFEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!
6am: Gym
Mostly weights
7.00am-8.30am: More coffee
More coffee, breakfast, throw the ball down the apartment hallway for my Italian greyhound Bambi, support teenagers to start their day, chat to husband about dinner plans and who has the car, get my head into the day with planning.
9.00am: National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA)
I start work as a counsellor and psychotherapist at NIDA.
9:00am- 2:00pm: A Busy Day
I see students, meet with staff, attend a rehearsal to support wellbeing, do admin (planning, notes, writing proposals for projects or workshops). Have some food somewhere in there as well. I usually snack a lot during busy days.
3:00pm -7:00pm In-Person & Online Clients
I drive to Bondi and see my private clients in my counselling room. Some clients are on tour or in different states/countries. I will see them online.
7.30pm: Arrive Home
I cuddle dog on couch. Her joy and excitement to see me calms my nervous system and floods my brain with dopamine. Check in with teenagers about their day, connecting and listening to them helps me switch out of work mode. We eat together, check in with each other and with my husband support whatever challenges are going on. We often use humour at dinner time to gain perspective and lighten the mood; we are not afraid of a game!
9:00pm: Head to Bed
Ideally, I am heading to bed. I watch easy, often ridiculous TV (hello MAFS) to switch off and slow down. Given my early start I am usually asleep before 10.00. I love sleep.
Connect with Kareena
Website: https://www.the-manifesto.com.au/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kareena-hodgson-70602a126/