Welcome to Awake Counselling, and thank you for finding your way here. We’re delighted that you’ve connected with us. The essence and motto behind Awake Counselling revolve around the idea that one must be awake, prepared, and in a space to embark on their healing journey.
Our symbol, the rooster, carries multiple meanings. It signifies the rooster’s crow, symbolising the commencement of a new day, new beginnings, and transformative change.
At Awake Counselling, our mission is to assist individuals who are ready to utilise their therapy journey as a tool to comprehend their trauma, address issues, tackle challenges, and enhance their overall well-being. We understand that counselling isn’t a magic fix that eradicates trauma instantly or a switch that we can click; rather, it’s a journey of healing and awakening that we can embark on together as a team.
We’re here to support you in navigating this journey towards a brighter, more awakened future.
My name is Elvis Caus (pronounced Chaush) and I was born in Bosnia, my family arrived in Australia in 1993 as refugees, and this vibrant country has been my home ever since.
As a dedicated social worker, my journey began in 2005, and I’ve had the privilege of working with diverse communities, including children and adults with disabilities, child protection, mental health, individuals living with HIV, and male survivors of childhood sexual trauma, along with their supporters. My professional path has led me to collaborate with LGBTIQA+ individuals, First Nations people, refugees, and those from various cultural backgrounds. From my modest beginnings in Melbourne to the bustling streets of London, I’ve called Sydney home since 2015.
Counselling isn’t just a profession for me; it’s a calling, a fascination, and a life purpose. Guided by a passion for helping people, my unwavering commitment is rooted in the transformative power of empathy, compassion, connection, and collaboration. These values shape the foundation of the safe and supportive space I aim to create for your personal growth and healing.
I believe we all embark on a journey to discover our life’s purpose, and I consider counselling to be not just a career but a deeply ingrained part of who I am. It’s my way of joining others on their paths to recovery and self-discovery, offering support, understanding, and a helping hand, one step at a time.
We provide individual therapy for those who have a genuine need and a yearning to talk through their challenges. Taking the step to be awake, wanting to make positive changes for yourself, is a significant stride forward — just like finding us here.
You don’t have to navigate your journey alone. Whether you’re seeking a brief respite or a more extended partnership, Awake Counselling can be the stepping stone to support you. We’re here to offer a listening ear, collaborative problem-solving, and a safe space for your personal growth, behaviour change and well-being.
My specialties and focus include:
💡Accredited Mental Health Social Worker (AMHSW) via mental health plan
📍Approved Counsellor (NSW Victim Services) and other Victims of Crime
👁️ EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) Therapist
🔑 Authorised Visitor (Corrective Services NSW)
🪴Surry Hills near Central Station (Sydney in-person)
🎍Telehealth (video/telephone)
👤Individual counselling
🌻Supporting folks with mental health, victims of crime, survivors of child sexual abuse and their supporters, LGBTIQA+ community, anxiety, trauma, depression, PTSD, ADHD (neurodiversity), grief and loss, attachment issues
❤️🩹 (EMDR) Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing Therapy, Trauma-informed counselling, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Relational Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Strength-based approach
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing
"Everything you've ever wanted is on the other side of fear."
Available for a complimentary initial 10-15 minute consultation, allowing us to discuss your goals and for you to get a sense of my approach.
In-Person Appointments: Available in Surry Hills, conveniently located near Central Station, within a secure and comfortable counselling space.
Online and Telephone Sessions: Many clients opt for online or telephone appointments. If preferred, an initial in-person meeting can be arranged to facilitate getting to know each other. I am happy to discuss this further.
Counselling Fees: Individual counselling sessions are $195.20 each. With a Medicare rebate of $85.20, your out-of-pocket cost is $110. From February 2025 the cost will be $200 per session. You can receive up to 10 Medicare sessions per calendar year with a mental health plan prescribed by your GP.
Approved Funding: NSW Victim Services Approved Counselling and NDIS Improved Daily Living funding are accepted.
Cancellation Policy: A minimum of 48 hours (2 days) notice is required to my mobile direct for any appointment changes. Without sufficient notice, the appointment will be considered a cancellation, and the session fee will be applied.
Payment Methods: Cash, mobile PayID, and Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT) are accepted.
Session Duration: Each one-hour session includes 50 minutes of counselling, with the remaining time allocated for notes. Arrangements can be made in advance for longer sessions if needed. Double session is required for the first round of EMDR reprocessing.
**First session payment requested in advance.
**First double EMDR reprocessing session payment requested in advance.
Awake Counselling acknowledges the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation as the Traditional Custodians of the land and sea on which we live and work. We pay our respect to Past, Present and Future Elders.
Helpful numbers to save in your phone:
13YARN – 139 276
Lifeline – 131 114
Qlife – 1800 184 527
SAMSN’s Peer Support Line – 1800 472 676
Mental Health Line – 1800 011 511
Copyright © 2024 All rights reserved.
Last weekend, I had the pleasure of visiting the René Magritte exhibition at the Art Gallery of NSW. It was a beautiful and thought-provoking experience, filled with incredible works by this iconic artist.
One painting, in particular, stopped both my friend and me in our tracks — a piece depicting clouds in a window with darkness beyond. We reflected on how it reminded us of the contrast between the bright, happy exterior people often present to the world and the sadness or struggles that might lie behind.
Therapy can be a powerful way to explore what’s behind your “window” and gain a deeper understanding of yourself. It’s a space to acknowledge both the light and the dark, and to find meaning in what lies beneath.
#awakecounselling #renemagritte #learningaboutyourself #deepemotions #deepfeelings #partswork #partsworktherapy #emdrtherapy #therapist #counsellor ... See MoreSee Less
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Speaking to my mentor Russ this morning, I learnt that aconnsw and other partners are putting on free workshops for anyone to attend to learn more about advance planning and end of life planning.
You can get more information from Love Project - Living Older Visibly and Engaged post below:
www.facebook.com/share/1CurdupAYJ/?mibextid=wwXIfr
This is something that is important for all of us and our loved ones. Yes it’s a scary topic and we’d rather turn away from it, yet it’s something that’s inevitable and better faced with more information and knowledge. Hope to see you there. 💛
#awakecounselling #acon #advancecareplanning #loveproject #endoflifeplanning #advancecareplan #willplanning #endoflife #deathliteracy #deathanddying ... See MoreSee Less
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Did you know that all Australians are eligible for up to 10 Medicare rebate-approved counselling sessions each calendar year, starting from January? 🌟 Simply visit your GP to discuss your needs and get a referral.
At Awake Counselling, I currently have capacity to welcome new clients — whether in person at my Surry Hills practice or via telehealth for flexibility. If you’re considering counselling or have any questions, I’d be happy to help guide you through the process.
Feel free to check out my website and the attached links for more information. Let’s start 2025 by prioritising your mental health and well-being.
awakecounselling.com/
www.psychologytoday.com/au/counselling/awake-counselling-elvis-caus-surry-hills-nsw/1126600
www.connectingmentalhealth.com.au/therapist/Awake+Counselling/
#awakecounselling #mentalhealthsupport #mentalhealth #medicarerebate #mentalhealthplan #medicare #emdrtherapy #emdr #amhsw #counsellor #therapist ... See MoreSee Less
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As we step into 2025, I’m reflecting on what I’ve learned and setting my intentions for the year ahead.
In 2024, I stayed grounded in my VALUES — compassion, connection, empathy, and collaboration — both in Awake Counselling and my personal life. These will continue to guide me in 2025, along with a renewed focus on JOY, finding more moments of fun and mindfulness in my daily life.
This year, I aim to strengthen my FINANCIAL goals by planning wisely and maintaining balance. In my CAREER, I’ll continue seeking growth and purpose, building on the work I love. I’m excited to deepen my INTELLECTUAL curiosity, learning from new experiences and perspectives.
With FAMILY, I’ll nurture stronger, more meaningful connections. I’m also committed to fostering SOCIAL bonds, sharing laughter and creating memories with friends and my community.
SPIRITUAL growth will remain a priority, with practices like gratitude and mindfulness keeping me grounded. I’ll also continue working on my FITNESS goals, prioritising health and energy. Above all, I’ll focus on building GOOD HABITS, knowing small, consistent steps lead to lasting change.
Here’s to making 2025 a year of growth, connection, and joy. What’s one goal or value you’re bringing into the new year?
#awakecounselling #goalplanning #goodhabits #goodhabitbuilding #goodhabitstacking #mindfulhabits #practisinggratitude #habitstacking #smallhabits #buildyourdreams #goalsforthenewyear #yourvalues #financialgoals #careergoals #intellectualgoals #familygoals #socialgoals #spiritualgoals #fitnessgoals #therapist #counsellor ... See MoreSee Less
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9. Good Habits
“Small habits lead to big transformations.”
GOOD HABITS are the building blocks of your goals. I focus on consistent actions, like starting my day with mindfulness, noticing daily glimmers or practicing gratitude. It’s the little things, done regularly, that make the biggest difference. What’s one habit you’re working on this week?
#awakecounselling #goalplanning #yourvalues #goodhabits #goodhabitbuilding #goodhabitstacking #mindfulhabits #practisinggratitude #habitstacking #smallhabits #buildyourdreams #goalsforthenewyear #therapist #counsellor ... See MoreSee Less
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8. Fitness
“Your body deserves care, just like your mind and soul.”
FITNESS goals are about feeling strong, energetic, and alive. For me, daily walks with my dog, gym routine, better food choices and yoga help me stay active and grounded. It’s not just about looking good — it’s about feeling great. What’s one small change you can make for your health today?
#awakecounselling #goalplanning #fitnessgoals #managingstress #moveforlife #moveforhealth #yourbodyisyourtemple #healthmatters #healthyhabits #goalsforthenewyear #therapist #counsellor ... See MoreSee Less
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7. Spiritual
“Nurture your spirit, and the rest will follow.”
SPIRITUAL goals aren’t one-size-fits-all — they’re about connecting with yourself, others, or something greater. For me, mindfulness and gratitude are powerful tools for inner peace. Whether through meditation, nature walks, or personal reflection even thoughts about ‘what is spiritually’, spiritual practices can center you. How do you nurture your spirit?
#awakecounselling #goalplanning #spirituality #managingstress #mindfulness #meditation #practisingcalm #personalreflection #practisingspirituality #groundingpractices #goalsforthenewyear #therapist #counsellor ... See MoreSee Less
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6. Social
“Connection is at the heart of being human.”
SOCIAL goals are about creating and sustaining meaningful relationships. Whether it’s catching up with friends, joining a community group, or attending events you like, I prioritise connection. Remember, nurturing friendships enriches life in so many ways. We also have to be aware of our social battery. What’s your favourite way to stay social?
#awakecounselling #goalplanning #wearesocialanimals #findyourtribe #prioritiseconnection #friendshipsmatter #socialbattery #makeafriend #connection #socialbattery #goalsforthenewyear #therapist #counsellor ... See MoreSee Less
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5. Family
“Family is where love grows.”
FAMILY goals focus on building strong, loving connections. Whether it’s spending more quality time together, creating traditions, or supporting each other through challenges, family/chosen family is a priority. I find joy in small moments — like sharing a meal or simply being present. What’s one way you nurture your family bonds?
#awakecounselling #goalplanning #yourfamilyconnections #adoptedfamily #chosenfamily #familyconnections #friendsarefamilytoo #nurturebondswithpeople #goalsforthenewyear #therapist #counsellor ... See MoreSee Less
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Howdy everyone!
As the year winds down, I wanted to share that Awake Counselling will be taking a short break for some well-deserved rest and recharge. 🌟
Our practice will be closed from midday Friday, 20th December 2024, and we’ll be back, refreshed and ready to support you, on Monday, 6th January 2025. 🌻
Thank you for being part of this journey throughout the year. Wishing you a joyful, peaceful holiday season and a bright start to the New Year. 🩷
Take care,
Elvis | Awake Counselling
#awakecounselling #timetorefresh #timetoreflect #timetorelax #selfcare #holidays #findjoy #findingglimmers ... See MoreSee Less
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Have a wonderful much needed break! 🤩
4. Intellectual
“A curious mind is a growing mind.”
INTELLECTUAL goals keep life interesting and meaningful. For me, reading, listening to podcasts, attending workshops, and learning from my clients are all ways I stay curious. Whether it’s taking a course, picking up a new book, or trying something creative, invest in your growth. What are you excited to learn next?
#awakecounselling #goalplanning #buildyourintellect #growthmindset #alwayslearning #sparkyourinterest #honeinyourskills #masteraskill #goalsforthenewyear #therapist #counsellor ... See MoreSee Less
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3. Career
“Your career is your journey—make it one you’re proud of.”
Setting CAREER goals is about more than promotions; it’s about fulfillment. I’ve always focused on creating meaningful impact through Awake Counselling. Whether it’s improving a skill, mentoring someone, or finding work-life balance, your career goals should align with your purpose. How do you define success in your career?
#awakecounselling #goalplanning #yourcareerplanning #managingworkstress #sidehustle #careerplans #honeinyourskills #masteraskill #goalsforthenewyear #therapist #counsellor ... See MoreSee Less
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