Stylianos 'Stel' Papastratis, ACA

Stylianos 'Stel' Papastratis is an ACA counsellor with more than 21 years working in mental health. He speaks English and Greek and supports people dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief and relationship concerns. Stel keeps his language clear and direct to make first steps feel manageable for someone who is worried or unsure.

He has worked across non-profit organisations, government services and private clinics in Australia, the UK and continental Europe. That variety has given him experience with many kinds of life difficulties, including chronic illness, caregiver strain and ageing concerns. He also has experience with attachment and abandonment issues and neurodiversity-related challenges such as autism and Asperger Syndrome.

Stel’s training includes a Bachelor and Honours degree in Psychological Sciences, a Graduate Diploma of Counselling, a Diploma of Professional Counselling, and a Diploma in Clinical Hypnotherapy. He also holds Basic and Advanced certification in Emotional Freedom Technique. He uses straightforward conversation and practical strategies in sessions.

In appointments he aims to build an open space for talking through feelings and practical problems. He encourages small, manageable steps people can take between sessions. Stel says taking the first step takes courage, and he focuses on steady support rather than quick fixes.

People seeking therapy should expect a collaborative approach that looks at emotions, behaviour and everyday routines. He adapts his work to suit issues such as communication problems, commitment concerns, body image and coping after separation or loss. For details about how to begin, follow the Start Therapy process on the site.

How therapeutic approaches translate to online care

Evidence-based therapeutic techniques are central to Stel's work. One approach he uses is structured conversation and problem-solving, where sessions focus on identifying practical steps to reduce stress and improve daily routines; this approach helps with anxiety, depression and relationship difficulties. Another common method is guided exploration of emotions and attachment patterns, which looks at how past relationships shape current reactions and helps people change unhelpful patterns.

Finding the right approach is a collaborative process. Stel will discuss possible methods with each person and adapt the work to their goals and preferences. He aims to match technique to the issue - whether that is managing mood swings, coping with loss, or improving communication - so the plan fits the person rather than the other way around.

Online therapy can make sessions easier to fit into everyday life, for example by removing travel time or allowing shorter check-ins during a busy day. If you want to confirm which session formats are available, please check the therapist's profile or booking page before you schedule. The focus is on practical access and consistency so therapy can be sustained alongside work, family and other commitments.