Julie Kitto
Counsellor in College Park, Adelaide
Hi, I’m Julie, a counsellor and mum of four, and I’m passionate about supporting parents not only through the ups and downs of raising children, but through all the other things that can shape how life feels along the way.
I know that family life can be wonderful, funny, messy, exhausting and downright challenging… sometimes all in the same day. You can love your children deeply and still feel overwhelmed, frustrated, unsure of yourself or simply worn out. There can be so much to hold: children, work, relationships, family, worries, expectations and the never-ending mental load.
What brought me to counselling
I've always cared deeply about people, their stories, their relationships and the experiences that have shaped who they are beneath the surface.
My professional background is in education, with many years spent working alongside children, teenagers and families, particularly supporting children with social and behavioural challenges. Over the years, one thing has become clear to me: behaviour is often only part of the story. That experience taught me the importance of looking beyond what's immediately happening to understand the person, their circumstances and the relationships around them.
I'm also a mum of four, four very different kids who have definitely taught me that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to parenting!
Life in our family is full of adventures, challenges, laughter and, at times, a lot of chaos. Parenting kids who are neurodivergent has also given me a personal understanding of the ways parenting can sometimes require you to think differently, adapt your expectations and find what works for each individual child.
Both my professional and personal experiences have shaped the way I approach counselling. I enjoy getting to know people, understanding what matters to them and helping them work out what feels right for their own lives.
I love what I do, but when I'm not counselling, you'll usually find me spending time with family and friends, heading out for a walk or hike in the sunshine… or the rain, I don't mind, and having a good laugh.
I love stopping to smell the roses, enjoying great food and coffee, getting out in the surf and making the most of the simple things. And there's something very comforting about watching the same movie more than once, especially when a quiet night at home is exactly what you need.
Teens have a special place in my heart
Supporting teens is something I genuinely love.
I’m drawn to their honesty, curiosity and individuality, and I enjoy being alongside them as they work out who they are and where they fit in the world.
The teen years bring so much change - friendships, identity, pressure, emotions, expectations and a growing need for independence. Sometimes “I’m fine,” “I don’t care” or “leave me alone” can be hiding something much bigger underneath.
I create a space where teens feel comfortable being themselves, talk openly and feel genuinely heard and help them make sense of what they’re experiencing.
And for parents, watching your teenager struggle can be incredibly hard. You may not know what to say, when to step in or how to stay connected when they seem to be pushing you away.
Being able to support both teens and their parents through these years is something I’m genuinely passionate about.
The modalities I draw from
Person-Centred Therapy provides a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, understood and accepted for who you are.
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) helps you understand your thoughts, feelings and behaviours and make helpful changes.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps you manage difficult thoughts and feelings while focusing on what matters to you.
Solution-Focused Therapy focuses on your strengths, what’s working and practical steps forward.
My professional background is in education, with many years spent working alongside children, teenagers and families, particularly supporting children with social and behavioural challenges. Over the years, one thing has become clear to me: behaviour is often only part of the story.
My qualifications
Member of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA)
Diploma of Counselling
Advanced Study Major – Child Development and Effective Parenting
Advanced Study Major – Relationship Counselling and Conflict Resolution
Advanced Study Major – Family Therapy
Bachelor of Education
Bachelor of Accounting
