Take the next step towards a better life

empatia [ehm-pah-tee-ah]

Name: Empatia Counselling
Address: Wollongong, NSW, AU
Telephone: 0415 792 055

It means empathy; seeing through someone else’s eyes, stepping into their shoes, and truly understanding their experience. That’s where our work with you begins, and it’s why we chose this name.

At Empatia Counselling, we offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you can share your story and work through whatever has brought you here.

We use a range of evidence-based therapy approaches to support adults through life’s challenges. Whether it’s low confidence, feeling stuck, past trauma, or simply struggling to cope. Each of our counsellors brings their own unique background and areas of focus, but we all share a commitment to work collaboratively with you, at your own pace, to explore your goals, discover practical solutions, and develop emotional resilience to move forward.

Accessible, Flexible Counselling

We offer online counselling sessions so you can connect from the comfort of your home—wherever you are, whenever it suits you. Based in Wollongong, we also offer Walk and Talk or Sit Outside sessions: counselling outdoors, surrounded by fresh air and movement, if that feels more natural for you.

Daytime, early evening, and Saturday morning sessions are available to fit your schedule.

Let’s Start with a Conversation
Not sure what you need or where to begin? That’s okay. Book a free 15-minute connection call. We’ll talk about what’s going on and how we can support you. No pressure, just a genuine conversation.

We understand that reaching out for support can feel daunting, and our aim is to meet you with empathy, not judgment.

We're here, we're listening, and we're ready when you are.

"You can't stop the waves, but you can learn to surf"

~Jon Kabat-Zinn

Meet the team

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Gary Bunker

Counsellor

Put simply, I help men deal with feelings of being alone, broken, unheard, with impacts from mild through to feeling hopeless and ‘near the end of your ability to cope’. I help men cope with addiction, depression, stress, grief and life challenges. I help them cope with shame and suffering from sex and sexuality problems, and kink challenges. You’re not alone, you’re not broken. There are ways to change how you feel and to make things better, in a few weeks. You’re not trapped, there is hope - you just need someone to share this with, and to help you see your way forward. That’s what I do.

Part of therapy means being heard and understood, by someone who’s walked in your shoes. But that doesn’t help without practical, helpful steps to finding your way out of where you’re stuck. That’s what I do, using AT, CBT and IFS therapies to deliver weekly improvements in how you feel. I partner with my clients, to reduce that mental pain level quickly.

I’m a neuro-diverse person who grew up in a tough-love and 'man-up' world. I’ve seen marriage and divorce, grief, addicted family, strife and loss until one too many knocks made me decide to quit life. Counselling saved me, the right words at the right time. Deciding to help others gave me purpose and keeps me smiling. Call me, I'm ready to listen.

More about Gary

Andrea Garin

Counsellor

Hi, I’m a big believer in the power of kindness and connection. I’m someone who loves a good story—whether it’s through movies, books, or the people I meet. I find peace in nature, joy in being creative, and I’ve never met a dog I didn’t love.

I'm a volunteer with Lifeline, I love learning, organising (yes, really!), and helping people make sense of the messiness of life (and their homes).

I have a passion for supporting women as they reconnect with their strength, self-worth, and voice. Whether you’re navigating self-doubt, life after trauma, or just trying to hold everything together - I see you. If you feel were a good fit, I'd be honoured to work alongside you.

I bring my whole self to my work as a counsellor—compassion, curiosity, a sense of humour, and a calm, grounded presence. I know how overwhelming life can feel sometimes and I'm here to offer you a safe space where you feel truly seen and supported.

More about Andrea