Christ-centred counselling
In conjunction with evidence-based approaches, we partner with the Holy Spirit to allow for healing of the whole person – spirit, soul, and body.
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose… For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
ROMANS 8:28, 38–39
Meet
Julia Poll
B.Bus, UTS; Grad Dip Counselling, Morling
Julia is a Gold Coast-based professional counsellor, helping individuals and couples find healing, restoration and freedom
Read more about meWhat clients are saying
"After five days of counselling, we were able to remove all my parts, and by the grace of God this has changed my life." Michael, 57 – Sydney
As a Christian, I've had counselling over the years using different approaches. However, I knew there was something missing – any changes after those sessions did not last long. After finding out about dissociation and the impact that having 'parts' can have on a person, I had a hunch this was affecting me and so I decided to get help. The Anazao model of counselling is thorough, respectful, sometimes challenging, and it allowed me to really take ownership throughout the process.
It was a shock at first to discover that I had dissociative 'parts' from Satanic Ritual Abuse. I had to understand what that meant, how the 'parts' operated, and the impact it was having on my life and relationships. After five days of counselling, we were able to remove all my parts, and by the grace of God this has changed my life. The continual background noise and distractions in my mind, the strong compulsions and anxiety I lived with for decades has completely gone. Removing 'parts' has literally saved my marriage! And that has been the biggest blessing. I have learnt so much since then about myself, God's grace, His love and forgiveness, and so much more. I am truly grateful.
"Jesus brought peace to memories of sexual abuse from my childhood – only He can do that!" Katrina, 65 – Brisbane
My pastor recommended Julia to me. Her approach to counselling is very thorough and biblical.
I am 65 years old, and I began to follow Christ at the age of 7. With Julia's guidance, I was able to see how Christ was with me through the hardest times in my life. And Jesus brought peace to memories of sexual abuse from my childhood – only He can do that! I have come to understand that the sins of the generations before me had contributed to the curses that followed me into my life. It really did bring the bible to life for me.
"… visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children's children, unto the third and to the fourth generation." Exodus 34:7 KJV
I praise YHWH that He led me to Julia, because even at my age, as long as I have been a Christian, there was deeper work Christ needed to do, to continue to set me free.
Thank you, Julia. It's good being obedient to YHWH. Your counselling is more like a ministry, helping to set the captive free.
"Julia's approach is extremely professional and my sessions were structured to get the most out of our time together." Simon, 68 – Brisbane
Counselling with Julia created a whole new awakening of growth in my life – spiritually, emotionally and mentally. I feel that I understand myself and my life so much better.
I've never experienced anything like this form of counselling and I know it has changed how I interact in my personal relationships, at work, and certainly my walk with God. Julia's approach is extremely professional and my sessions were structured to get the most out of our time together.
I would encourage everyone to rise above any fears about counselling, and be open and completely honest with Julia. I'm so glad I did.
Life can be complicated
Many in the Church suffer from all the mental, emotional, and physical health issues so common in the broader community. We pray, fast, seek ministry, attend healing seminars and retreats, and still the anxiety, depression, addiction, or chronic fatigue continues.
We're told to have more faith, or to come back for more ministry. We try harder, and yet not much changes. And if we're honest, we wonder where God is in all this… – is He powerless? Does He care? We hear of someone else's miraculous healing and quietly wonder, "Why aren't I healed? What more do I need to do? I follow you, Jesus. When is it my turn?"
We read verses in Scripture about life abundant. We receive prayer, proclaim healing, and still any changes are minor and may have more to do with all the effort we put into managing our condition. "Where are you, Jesus?"
The longer we suffer, the more that hope withers into a quiet resignation. Eventually, we accept a powerless Christianity.
Do not despair. Healing need not be as elusive as it seems. What's needed isn't more effort, but a different approach – one that takes the time to unpack root issues and systematically removes the blockages to God's healing in our lives.
"God wants to heal, but unfortunately, there are significant blockages in our lives that prevent him from healing. Identifying what these blockages are and working out a methodical, effective way to remove them is what we have spent a lot of time doing. The healing flows almost automatically, once the barriers preventing healing are no longer there. Many people have been healed by understanding and removing the factors preventing their healing."
Our hope in Christ
God's covenant loyalty; steadfast love; loving-kindness in action; mercy; faithfulness; goodness; and grace.
Khesed (חֶסֶד) is the Hebrew word for God's covenant love – steadfast, faithful, merciful, and active on our behalf. It's the word Scripture returns to again and again to describe God's character: the one who "pardons all your guilt, heals all your diseases and redeems your life from the pit" (Psalm 103:3–4).
That covenant love reaches its fullest expression in the person and work of the Messiah. The death and resurrection of Jesus changed everything. It was a monumental event. Having profound consequences for the redemption of mankind, for this life and the one to come.
Through the cross, two exchanges are made: our sin for His forgiveness; and the impact of that sin and past hurt – our shame, sickness, and sorrow – for His life, healing, and peace. It is this second exchange, so often overlooked, that makes true healing and lasting change possible in this life. Participating in the exchanges of the cross, usually through repentance, is crucial and determines the quality of our life and Christian walk.
This is the mission of our counselling practice: partnering with Jesus to remove what stands between you and the wholeness and freedom He died to give you.
What makes Khesed different
Our therapeutic philosophy: Holy Spirit partnership, whole-person approach, combining clinical training with spiritual discernment.
Many approaches to mental health work on the surface, managing the symptoms and building coping strategies. That can be valuable and has its place. But a lasting resolution of any issue or disorder requires looking at the bigger picture.
True healing deals with causes – and the causes of any condition (mental, emotional or physical) usually involve a combination of factors.
Understanding the combined impact of: lifestyle choices and thinking patterns; personal sin issues; family history and generational iniquity; past trauma and injury; the role of dissociation; and the reality of demonic interference is essential as each of these can, and do, contribute to any condition or disorder.
We are committed to an integrated approach that addresses all these relevant factors, rather than specialising in a few.
Ultimately, true healing of the whole person – mind, emotions, and body – can only be achieved through Jesus Christ. At times, His direct intervention is necessary to bring about the change. We partner with Him to systematically remove what's in the way, so more complete healing can take place.
Khesed distinctives
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Partnering with the Holy Spirit – in conjunction with a comprehensive therapy model
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Causal issues addressed – not just symptoms managed
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Intensive block format – real progress in days, not years
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Book sessions from anywhere – in Australia or overseas
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In-person or online – sessions via Zoom
Counselling for individuals
We work with individuals to address various mental, emotional, and behavioural challenges – moving beyond managing symptoms to addressing what's causing them.
There is hope and help for those struggling with:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Anger that's difficult to control
- Disrupted sleep
- Relationship issues
- Childhood sexual abuse
- Past trauma
- An addiction
- Fears and phobias that overwhelm
- Dissociative disorders
- Anorexia and bulimia
- Self harm
- OCD
- Satanic ritual abuse
Marriage counselling
For couples in crisis, seeking restoration, or enrichment
Is your marriage in real trouble? Have you lost hope that things can improve? Have you discovered your spouse is having an affair or struggling with a porn addiction? Perhaps you're fighting constantly and can't find common ground – or maybe you just feel disconnected, isolated, and alone in your marriage.
Marriage and relationship counselling can help couples at any stage, rebuilding trust, fostering deeper intimacy, improving communication, and navigating conflict constructively.
For some, your past brings complexity into your relationship. If either of you has experienced abuse, violence, neglect, addiction, divorce, or trauma, it's vital to go deeper and allow Jesus to heal the impact of those experiences – physically, emotionally, and spiritually. And where difficult patterns run in the family line, addressing generational iniquity and learned behaviours is critical to ending them before they reach your own children.
Pre-marriage counselling
For couples seeking to build a strong foundation before marriage
The current divorce statistics are sobering, and sadly, the divorce rate amongst Christian couples is no different from the broader community.
Whether you're dating or planning a wedding, pre-marriage counselling is an intentional investment in your future. By building awareness and skills in communication, conflict resolution, handling stress, finances, personality differences, relationship roles, spiritual beliefs, and shared lifestyle choices, couples can enter marriage celebrating their strengths and working as a team on areas of growth.
How daily intensive therapy works
We work with clients in blocks of time. The minimum is 1 full day. It is recommended that new clients book at least 3 days. Each day consists of 6 hours of in-person or online counselling with breaks scheduled each day.
Why the block of time?
Weekly one-hour sessions can draw out progress. Just as momentum builds, the hour is up. The intensive block format was designed to break that cycle: concentrated days that go deeper, giving you time to process and resolve each contributing factor – rather than simply managing symptoms week to week.
This is a comprehensive and efficient approach in a focused period of time.
Jesus has promised healing and freedom – healing emotionally, mentally, and physically. We aim to identify and remove the blockages that may be in the way. And this is best done over multiple, consecutive days.
We are aiming to address the combined impact of causal issues, not just provide strategies to manage symptoms.
What to expect
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Get in touch
Send a message to start the conversation. Share as much or as little as you like – we'll take it from there.
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Introductory call
A no-obligation conversation to discuss your situation, goals, and any questions you may have.
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Schedule
Book the days that suit you - online or in person - so you can give the process the focused attention it needs.
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Tailored approach
We prepare a focused plan ahead of your first session, shaped around the issues you've raised and the outcomes you're seeking.
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Your sessions
Six hours per day, in person or online, with structured breaks – dedicated time to go deeper and resolve what's in the way.
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Follow up
Follow-up resources to support you with the progress you've made.
About me
Hi, I'm Julia – a counsellor based in the Gold Coast, Queensland.
"My journey into counselling came from a conviction, shaped by years of personal faith and experience, that Jesus really does heal, and that He provides a way through."
True healing is God's promise to His people – healing emotionally, mentally, and physically – all through the Old and New Testaments. It's a vital part of the good news of salvation. And yet I was puzzled. Why are so many in the Church unable to receive what Scripture promises? Answering that question has shaped my work over many years.
The answer is often found when the approach we use is not haphazard or superficial, deals with causes not just symptoms, and gives room for the divine intervention necessary to bring about the change that is needed. Partnering with Jesus as He does what only He can do for my clients is the most rewarding work I know.
Before counselling, I spent years in professional marketing roles for national and international brands, studying a BA in PsychEd/Political Science (USyd) and a Bachelor of Business (UTS). I later trained at Morling College, Sydney (Grad Dip Counselling), with further study in Trauma Resolution, Dissociative Identity Disorder, Dissociation and Ritual Abuse, Effective Communication and Conflict Resolution, Anazao training and accreditation, and studies in Biblical Theology. I'm also a registered Prepare-Enrich pre-marriage and marriage counsellor.
When I'm not working, I enjoy time with my husband of 27 years and our two daughters. I love reading history, theology, and the classics. I relax with walks along the coast, travelling as often as I can, and hosting friends and family at our Gold Coast home.
FAQs
What is Dissociation?
Bringing resolution to dissociative 'parts' has been an important factor in healing for many of our clients. Dissociation is the experience of detaching from reality. And trauma is the central reason dissociation occurs. When faced with overwhelming physical or emotional pain, a person unconsciously distances themselves from the experience. It is the mind's protective mechanism to help us survive the experience. Our brains essentially 'switch off' certain connections. So the memory and emotions of the traumatic event are not integrated normally but are held outside the person's cognitive awareness.
What do we believe?
We believe that ultimate authority resides in Scripture regarding all matters of faith and practice. We believe the orthodox doctrines of the Christian faith. These have been summarised in both the historical Apostles Creed and the more detailed Nicene Creed.
What therapy models do we use?
We draw on a range of established approaches, always within a Christ-centred, biblically sound framework.
- Anazao Counselling Model Read more
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
- Trauma-informed therapy
- Solution-focused techniques when needed
What is the Anazao model?
The Anazao Counselling Model is an integrated therapy approach that addresses both the biological and spiritual components of any physical or mental illness or disorder.
How much will it cost?
Session fees are available upon enquiry. We offer a no-obligation phone consultation to discuss your situation and goals, and answer any questions you may have, including fees and availability.
We welcome students and young adults, offering special discounted rates on our counselling services to support you through the challenges of this stage of your life.
If you are experiencing exceptional circumstances or financial hardship, please talk to us about a payment plan or fee reduction, offered on a case-by-case basis.
Are you part of a church?
Khesed is an independent practice and not affiliated with a specific denomination or congregation. We work with Christians from all denominational backgrounds. We have attended and served in various churches over the years including Baptist, Anglican, Evangelical, Church of Christ, Pentecostal, and independent community churches.
We respect our clients faith journey and believe that each Christian denomination is an expression of the body of Christ and has preserved important doctrinal truths.
We also welcome those who would not call themselves Christian. You don't need to be a Christian to receive counselling, provided you are willing to hear about the Father's profound love and provision for us in Jesus.
Can I get a Medicare rebate?
Medicare and private health insurance rebates are not available through Khesed due to the Australian government's exclusion of Counsellors & Psychotherapists from the Better Access to Mental Health Policy.
Due to our more holistic mental health approach, which may include interventions that are outside the scope of practice of regulatory bodies in Australia, such as PACFA, ACA, and others, we have decided not to pursue registration at this time (1). Registration is currently not required to practice.
In our work with clients, we adhere to the highest professional and ethical standards and meet the requirements for professional supervision each year. We are committed to upholding the trust, safety, and confidence of our clients at all times.
1. The main regulatory bodies for the counselling profession in Australia include the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) and the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA).
How many days should I book?
True healing deals with causes. And this can take time to unpack because root issues contributing to any ailment or disorder often run deep. For that reason, applying a systematic and thorough approach that addresses the combined impact of causal issues is best done over multiple, consecutive days.
New clients are advised to book a minimum of 3 days. Depending on your personal situation, some choose to set aside a full week (5 days) to get the most benefit. We are aiming for outcomes rather than locking you into regular short sessions over an extended period of time.
How effective is counselling over Zoom?
In our experience, online sessions do not decrease the effectiveness of serving our clients. Many report enjoying the convenience of Zoom sessions from the privacy and comfort of their own homes. Saving on travel time to and from the therapist's office is also a major advantage. Sessions via Zoom allow us to be available for clients across Australia and overseas.
If considering online sessions, you will need a stable internet connection, a private space at home, and a reasonable-quality camera on your device. If you are in a different time zone, we will endeavour to schedule counselling at a time that works for you.
