A Day in the Life of Amanda Guilfoyle – Neuro-Affirming PACFA Registered Clinical Counsellor, Gestalt Therapist, Yogi, and Supervisor-in-Training.

About Amanda

Amanda holds a Bachelor of Social Science (Counselling) and a Master of Gestalt Therapy. She is currently undertaking yoga teacher training and Gestalt supervisor training to further support her integrative, relational approach to therapy.

Amanda specialises in working with children, young people, and adults, with a strong focus on neurodivergent clients and their families. Her practice is grounded in neuro-affirming, trauma-informed care, drawing from Gestalt Therapy principles that are deeply relational.

Amanda's journey into psychotherapy was shaped by a significant personal trauma that inspired her to shift from a career in fashion and design into the deeply meaningful world of mental health. Her early career in the not-for-profit sector took her across Australia, where she worked with a diverse range of individuals, communities and colleagues, gaining insight and experience that continues to inform her practice.

Amanda offers one-on-on therapy, parenting support, and professional development for therapists. She is particularly passionate about creating spaces of safety, curiosity, and connection - where people can explore their challenges and the many layers of being human.

My Work

I’ve worked with a range of not-for-profit organisations all over this incredible country, and those experiences have been nothing short of life changing. I’ve met and worked alongside some amazing humans from all walks of life.

I’ve found a deep connection in supporting neurodivergent children, teens, and adults - it’s work that really speaks to me and continues to teach me so much. Almost three years ago, I took a leap and started my own private practice, something I’d promised myself I’d do after completing my Master of Gestalt Therapy.

I’m currently completing my yoga teacher training and supervisor training - both are helping me grow in new ways, personally and professionally, and I’m excited to see where they lead.

My work is grounded in Gestalt Therapy, held within a neuro-affirming and trauma-informed frame, and shaped by years of experience in community, clinical, and creative spaces.

Whether it’s through individual sessions, parenting support, group work, or professional development, Pella Wellness is a space where people are met with warmth, creativity, and deep respect.

 

A Day in the Life of Amanda Guilfoyle

5:30am: A Walk in the Forest

I rise with the light and with gratitude - thankful for the breath in my lungs, and another day on this earth. Before anything else, I walk in the forest. It is quiet, grounding, and alive. It’s where I set the tone for the day - connected, present, and open. I love hearing the morning birdsong and noticing the early light through the gum trees.

7:00am: Coffee

Back home, I brew a coffee and spend a few minutes checking in with myself and journalling before the workday begins. I skim through my schedule and any overnight enquiries. Some mornings I’ll chat briefly with my admin team – we work collaboratively to make sure things run smoothly and clients feel seen from the very first contact.

7.30am: Solo Car Boogie

I hit the road to one of the few spaces I work out of. I always have music playing (usually something upbeat!) and use the drive to catch up with friends or family - or just enjoy a solo car boogie. It’s a little moment of joy before the workday begins.

8:00am – 12:00pm: Clients

The day’s work begins. Some mornings I meet with new client’s other times parents navigating next steps for their children or young people. I thoroughly enjoy the creativity and playfulness that working with children and young people brings. It keeps me connected to curiosity, imagination, and the beauty of regulation through connection.

Other sessions might be with regular clients - each bringing their own unique story, each held within a neuro-affirming, trauma-informed Gestalt lens.

My work locations vary - a clinic space one day, an early year’s hub another, sometimes online. I love the variety. Each place has its own rhythm. Depending on the location, I might be lucky enough to grab a coffee with a friend mid-morning.

12:00pm: Lunch

Lunchtime is my little ritual. I usually bring something nourishing from home and step outside to eat. The fresh air, a bit of sun, and a few stretches help me reset for the afternoon. It’s a quiet pause in a busy day - one I really value.

1:00pm – 6:00pm: Contributing My Experience

Afternoons flow between client sessions, admin catch-ups, and sometimes, the creative planning of group programs. I might check in with the admin team or follow up on new enquiries.

Some days I facilitate a Community of Practice or contribute to Lived Experience Advisory groups - these spaces matter. They’re where the wisdom of the collective is honoured, and they remind me again of how important contributing my experience is.

I’m feeling excited to eventually be able to support other therapists in their journey when my Gestalt Supervisor training is complete - it feels like a natural extension of my work.

6:30pm – 8:00pm: Slowing Down

Evenings are for slowing down. I usually spend some time on the yoga mat, moving gently, breathing deeply, and letting go of the day. My yoga practice helps me return to myself and tune in to what I need.

After that, it’s all about joy and connection - perhaps catching up with a friend over a meal or show, spending time with family, watching something that makes me laugh, heading to a dance class, or simply sipping tea and enjoying a quiet moment. These small things are my version of sacred self-care.

9:30pm: It Ends with Tea

The day winds down gently. I may meditate, read a few pages of something inspiring, or just lie back and relax. Each day ends with tea - peppermint or green tea while I let the day go with gratitude, trusting I’ll meet the next one just as I did this one - with presence, purpose, and heart.

This life I’ve built is full - of people, stories, creativity, healing and joy! And I wouldn’t have it any other way.

 

Connect with Amanda

Website: https://www.pellawellness.com.au/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-guilfoyle-132b80175/

 

Open the Door on Your Day

The ‘Day in the Life’ series is created and edited by PACFA Registered Clinical Psychotherapist® and founder of The Psychosynthesis Centre, Jodie Gale.

Each month, the ‘A Day in the Life’ series will offer participating PACFA members the opportunity to share their unique personal and professional experience as dedicated Practising & Registered Clinical Counsellors and Registered Clinical Psychotherapists who embody the art and science of holding space for others. Click here to read more and to find out how you can open the door on your day.

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