Writing on lived experience, mental health and practice

Award-winning social worker, national advisor, and PhD researcher Michael Elwan explains social isolation therapy; why disconnection develops and how therapy supports reconnection.

Award-winning social worker, national advisor, and PhD researcher Michael Elwan explains social anxiety therapy; how it works, what to expect, and how it helps people feel safe and confident again

Award-winning social worker, national advisor, and PhD researcher Michael Elwan explores self esteem therapy and how it supports people to move beyond self-criticism toward steadier self-worth.

Award-winning social worker Michael Elwan offers relationship and marriage counselling online across Australia, supporting couples to understand patterns and restore connection.

Award-winning social worker, national advisor, and PhD researcher Michael Elwan explores men’s issues therapy when coping alone no longer works.

Award-winning social worker, national advisor, and PhD researcher Michael Elwan explores grief therapy for loss that reshapes identity, relationships, and meaning.

Award-winning Accredited Social Worker Michael Elwan offers trauma and PTSD therapy online across Australia. A trauma-informed, relational approach supporting safety, regulation, and reconnection after overwhelming experiences.

Award-winning Accredited Social Worker Michael Elwan offers depression therapy online across Australia. A trauma-informed, relational approach for people feeling flat, disconnected, or worn down by carrying too much for too long.

Award-winning Accredited Social Worker Michael Elwan offers anxiety or fears therapy online across Australia. A trauma-informed, relational approach for people feeling overwhelmed, vigilant, or stuck despite coping well on the outside.

Great relationships don’t just happen. They’re not stumbled upon in perfect form. They are intentionally shaped, much like a sculptor revealing beauty hidden within stone. In the world of therapy, this idea is captured in what researchers call the Michelangelo effect - a concept that describes how partners can support one another to grow into their best selves over time. In my work with couples, I often witness the profound shift that occurs when partners choose to uncover ra

Childhood experiences shape our perceptions, behaviors, and emotional responses. When those experiences involve trauma, they can leave lasting imprints that influence our adult lives. However, healing from childhood trauma is possible - and across Australia, more people are reclaiming their inner strength through compassionate, evidence-based support. Traumatic events in childhood, such as abuse, neglect, or loss, can lead to challenges like anxiety, trust issues, and emotion

Award-winning social worker, national advisor, and PhD researcher Michael Elwan offers grief counselling online across Australia. No referral needed.

Award-winning social worker and therapist Michael Elwan explains attachment styles in adult relationships and how therapy at LEXs can build secure connections.

Anger is a universal emotion, often misunderstood and hastily judged. While it can manifest explosively, leading to regrettable actions, it's essential to recognise that anger often serves as a protective mechanism, masking deeper, more vulnerable feelings. Through anger management therapy in Australia, people can explore the underlying emotions beneath their anger, gaining insight and building healthier, more authentic relationships. The Anger Iceberg: What's Beneath the Sur

Addiction is often perceived merely as a series of poor choices or a lack of willpower. However, in my experience as a therapist, I’ve come to understand that addiction frequently serves as a coping mechanism for deeper, unresolved emotional pain. Through addiction therapy in Australia, people can explore these underlying emotions and pave the way for genuine healing and recovery. The Emotional Roots of Addiction Many individuals turn to substances or compulsive behaviours no