- Strengths-based care
- Practical tools
- Values-informed
About Derrel
Derrel Drinnan is an AASW social worker with 20 years of experience who helps people facing stress, anxiety, grief, low self-esteem and life changes. She writes warmly and plainly, and encourages people to take the first step toward feeling steadier. Her approach blends practical tools with a strengths-based attitude that respects each person's story.
Derrel draws on both professional practice and personal life experience. She uses person-centred principles to listen first and help clients set their own goals. Motivational interviewing techniques are used to work through ambivalence and find practical next steps.
She also uses solution-focused strategies to identify small, manageable changes that make a difference day to day. Trauma-informed practice guides how she attends to emotional safety and responds to painful memories. Emotional regulation strategies are taught so people can manage overwhelming feelings in the moment.
Derrel mentions a Christian worldview as part of her perspective, and she adapts conversations to each person’s beliefs and values. Her work often covers grief and end-of-life topics, compassion fatigue, codependency and issues around guilt, shame and forgiveness.
People exploring life purpose, midlife transition, and money or financial issues will find practical, down-to-earth conversations rather than jargon. She encourages clients to notice strengths they already have, and to practice small skills between sessions to build confidence.
Therapeutic approaches and online options
Derrel uses person-centred work that focuses on listening and helping people set their own goals. This approach is useful when someone needs a steady space to talk, sort priorities and decide what matters most.She also applies motivational interviewing techniques to help people move past mixed feelings and find motivation for practical change. Solution-focused methods are used to identify small steps that can be tried between sessions, which helps build momentum without overwhelming the person.
Choosing the right approach is a team effort. Derrel will discuss different ways of working and adapt methods to fit a client’s goals, values and life situation. This is a collaborative process that can change as progress is made.
The biography does not list specific online session formats, so please confirm current session options before booking. Many people find that remote sessions make it easier to fit counselling into busy days, reduce travel time and allow shorter check-ins during a work break. Others prefer longer sessions for deeper conversations. Discuss format and timing when you book so sessions suit your routine.
Areas of focus
Frequently asked questions
What concerns does she commonly help with?
She works with stress, anxiety, grief, self-esteem and coping with life changes, plus compassion fatigue and related issues like codependency and guilt.
What is her general therapeutic style?
Her style is person-centred and strengths-based, using motivational interviewing and solution-focused ideas to set small, practical goals.
How much experience does she have?
Derrel has about 20 years of professional experience supporting people through difficult life events and transitions.
What credential does she hold and where is she based?
She is listed with the Australian Association of Social Workers, AASW, and practises in Australia.
Which languages are sessions offered in?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can people outside Australia work with her?
She is not accepting international clients at this time.
How are costs and payments handled?
Cost varies with location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription that can be cancelled at any time.
How do I begin working with her?
Select the Start Therapy button, complete the short matching questionnaire, and then schedule sessions according to therapist availability.