- Family conflict
- Trauma and abuse
- Parenting support
About John
John Obalum is an AASW social worker who helps people dealing with family conflict, trauma and abuse, intimacy concerns, parenting strain and anger. He speaks English and Igbo and draws on seven years of experience supporting people through difficult life moments. He aims to make the first step feel manageable by listening without judgement and responding with empathy.
In sessions he focuses on creating a space where thoughts and feelings can be shared safely. He uses clear, down-to-earth conversation rather than jargon. Clients can expect to be heard and guided to notice patterns that keep problems stuck, and to try small, practical changes between meetings.
John commonly uses acceptance and commitment ideas alongside client-centred and mindfulness approaches. That means he helps people notice painful thoughts without being ruled by them, clarify what matters most, and practice simple exercises that build steadiness in daily life. He also draws on motivational interviewing to support changes people actually want to make.
His background includes work in mental health and child protection, and experience with children and young adults who are struggling with identity. That history informs his approach to parenting concerns, attachment issues and the effects of past hurt.
People come for help with a wide range of concerns beyond the main areas listed, including money and financial issues, guilt and shame, communication problems, midlife questions and men’s issues. He works collaboratively to set goals and to adapt the pace of work to each person’s needs.
How his approaches work in online therapy
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps people notice difficult thoughts and feelings without being controlled by them, and to choose actions that reflect what matters most. It can help with anxiety around relationships, parenting stress and life purpose questions. Client-Centred Therapy focuses on listening, empathy and meeting people where they are, which supports working through shame, guilt and family conflict by building trust and understanding.Finding the right approach is a collaborative process. The therapist will talk with each person about goals, preferences and how they want to work, then adjust methods as needed. This helps keep therapy relevant and practical rather than forcing a single method on everyone.
Practical benefits of online work include fitting sessions into a busy week and reducing travel time. Online appointments can make it easier to check in during a lunch break or after work, and to maintain momentum when life gets hectic. The exact session formats available are not specified here, so confirm current options before booking to ensure they match your needs.
Areas of focus
Frequently asked questions
What concerns does John help with?
He supports people facing family conflict, trauma and abuse, intimacy concerns, parenting strain and anger. He also works with issues like attachment, money and financial issues, guilt and loneliness.
How would you describe his therapy style?
He uses a non-judgemental, conversational style that focuses on listening and practical steps. Sessions emphasise noticing patterns and trying small changes between meetings.
What kind of experience does he have?
He has seven years of professional experience and has worked in mental health and child protection sectors. He has supported children and young adults with identity concerns.
What qualifications and where is he based?
He holds AASW credentials and practices in Australia.
Which languages are available for sessions?
Sessions are offered in English and Igbo.
Can international clients book sessions?
He is not accepting international clients at this time.
How much do sessions cost?
Cost varies with location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription that can be cancelled at any time.
How do I start working with him?
Select the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule according to therapist availability.