Hello, I’m Michelle Aziz, founder of Second Life Counselling. I’m a qualified counsellor registered with the Australian Counselling Association, supporting adults experiencing anxiety, trauma and the emotional impact of cancer survivorship.

Why I became a counsellor

My path into counselling is deeply personal. For many years, I lived with anxiety and panic attacks while continuing to work, care for my family and meet the demands of everyday life. I knew something needed to change, but like many people, I became accustomed to putting my own wellbeing aside.

Then, in 2024, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I underwent chemotherapy, surgery, radiation and immunotherapy, experiencing the fear, uncertainty and disruption that can accompany a life-changing diagnosis. While the physical effects of treatment were difficult, it was the emotional aftermath and loss of identity that affected me most.

I found myself wondering, “Who am I now?” and “How do I move forward when I can’t return to the person I was before?”

Those experiences changed the direction of my life and deepened my understanding of how anxiety, trauma and illness can affect our sense of safety, identity, relationships and future. Second Life Counselling grew from my desire to create the kind of space people often need during life’s most difficult chapters – a place where they can speak honestly, feel understood and begin finding their way forward.

My approach to counselling

My counselling style is warm, grounded and collaborative. I believe you are the expert in your own life, and my role is not to judge you or tell you what to do. Instead, I will listen carefully, help you explore what you are experiencing and support you to develop greater understanding, confidence and practical ways of coping.

My approach is person-centred and strengths-based, incorporating elements of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Narrative Therapy according to your individual needs.

Sessions move at a pace that feels comfortable for you. You will have space to talk without pressure, organise thoughts that may feel overwhelming and explore the experiences, patterns and beliefs affecting your wellbeing. Together, we can identify your strengths, develop helpful strategies and work towards meaningful and realistic change.

My qualifications and professional experience

I hold a Diploma of Counselling and am registered with the Australian Counselling Association. I also hold a Bachelor of Arts in Professional Writing and Publishing and a Graduate Certificate in Human Rights and Development.

Before becoming a counsellor, I spent more than 20 years working in the corporate and property sectors, including many years in social sustainability. This experience gave me insight into workplace pressure, burnout, professional identity, redundancy and the challenge of balancing work with health, family and personal wellbeing.

I am also a trained Cancer Connect peer support volunteer with Cancer Council Queensland, supporting people affected by cancer through compassionate, lived-experience-based connection.

A little about me

Outside counselling, I am a writer, wife and mother. I value family, honesty, compassion, creativity and genuine human connection. I enjoy journalling, meaningful conversations and the quieter parts of life that help us feel grounded and present.

I believe healing does not always mean returning to who you were before. Sometimes it means getting to know who you are now and creating a second life shaped by greater self-awareness, authenticity and hope.

Whatever has brought you here, you do not have to have everything worked out before reaching out. I would be honoured to walk alongside you as you begin your next chapter.