Our Team
Strength ~ Connection ~ Community ~ Future
Founder / Counsellor
Richard O'Connor
A desire to make a difference and a love of people and exercise, inspired my entry into the wellness industry in 1991. I have worked in many capacities, including creating two businesses, one educational (est 2007), focusing on professional development, and a Personal training gym which was established in 2002 that I still operate today in Robina. During this time I have had the opportunity to care for many people from diverse backgrounds with varying health and wellness challenges and help them achieve their individual goals. Many of these people for almost 20 years.
Along the way my interest in mental health has deepened, leading me to undertake my Bachelor of Counselling degree at Griffith University Gold Coast. Walk and Talk for Wellness is another small way I hope to make a difference in the lives of the people in my community.
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I look forward to walking and talking with you soon!
Richard is available at our Benowa location on the Gold Coast
Counsellor trainee
Laura Bannerman
Hi, I’m Laura, a third-year Bachelor of Counselling student with ACAP University College. I’m thrilled to join Walk and Talk for Wellness to integrate the healing power of nature with inclusive support, social connection and gentle movement. I hope to create a safe and grounding space for clients, where they can feel heard and understood. I’m passionate about the environment and feel that all beings are interconnected with the natural world. I believe that the outdoors can be a powerful therapeutic tool which can support the restoration of balance and a sense of belonging and can enhance self-discovery. My counselling approach is person-centred, strengths-based, and solution-focused, adapted to each individual’s unique needs. I draw on mindfulness practices for the development of awareness and acceptance, and work with you to establish practical, holistic and empowering strategies for change. I look forward to walking with you!
Laura is available at our Benowa location on the Gold Coast region​​
Counsellor trainee
Sasha
Hi, I’m Sasha. I am completing a Bachelor of Psychological Science and Counselling at ACAP. I am excited to join the healing space of nature, movement and connection at Walk and Talk. I draw on a variety of counselling approaches, but my overall aim is to create a safe, non-judgmental, and understanding space for people to feel comfortable exploring their struggles and to work together to enhance their unique self-understanding, growth and well-being. As a mother of 3, I understand the juggle of life, self-development, sacrifice, and seeking identity, purpose, and meaning in an ever-changing environment. It is important to fit your own oxygen mask before others; as such, I am passionate about supporting and working with people to recognise and take steps to prioritise their well-being and coping so they can better care for themselves and those around them.
Sasha is available at our Benowa location in the Gold Coast region​​
Counsellor trainee
Chanelle Rika Da Silva Pedruco
Hi! My name is Chanelle and I am currently completing my Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy at ACAP. My aspirations center around ensuring people never feel alone, through listening, empathy and understanding. I have volunteered with the Red Cross in their telecross program and this has further inspired me to believe that human connection leads to healing. Human connection and nature serves as such a wonderful outlet in improving mental health and wellbeing. As someone who engages in daily walks and loves writing poetry and music, I am inspired by nature to hold space for silence and motivation. I look forward to walking beside you within the Walk and Talk for Wellness community and supporting you on your journey towards self-care, self-compassion and self-empowerment
Chanelle is available at our Benowa location on the Gold Coast region​​
Counsellor trainee
Wil Constable
My name is Wil, and I’m currently studying a Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy at the University of Canberra. I’m really excited about the opportunity to work with you and help you take care of your mental health.
I’ve had a diverse career, and I’ve always been passionate about learning and growing. I am also passionate about Rugby League. It’s easy to get caught up in our busy lives and forget how important it is to take care of our mental health.
Walking in the gardens can change the way we think about counselling. I offer a holistic, Person-Centered model of counselling, which means I combine different therapy models to create a safe and supportive space where you can feel heard and understood. I practice empathy and bring unconditional positive regard to our time together. My goal is to walk with you and help us build a strong therapeutic relationship. Most importantly, I want to help you become more aware of yourself and find the strategies that will improve your wellbeing.
Wil is available at our Benowa location on the Gold Coast region​​
Counsellor trainee
Karisha Sehmbey
Hi, I’m Karisha, a third-year Bachelor of Counselling student and counselling intern. I’m passionate about supporting people through stress, life transitions, and emotional challenges with compassion and grounded guidance. I strongly value creating a safe, non-judgemental space where clients feel comfortable, understood, and able to express themselves openly. Building trust is at the centre of my work, and I focus on listening deeply, meeting clients where they’re at, and helping them develop practical strategies that support their wellbeing. I believe that small, consistent steps create meaningful change, and I’m committed to walking alongside clients as they build confidence and clarity.
Karisha is available at our Benowa location on the Gold Coast region​​
Counsellor trainee
Luisa Gil
Hi! My name is Luisa, and I am currently pursuing a Master of Global Development at Griffith University, driven by a deep commitment to social impact and cultural collaboration. Originally trained as a psychologist in Colombia, I bring a strong foundation in mental health and human behaviour to my work. I also hold a certificate in Yoga Teaching, which reflects my belief in a holistic approach to wellbeing, integrating mind, body, and community. I am excited to be part of The Walk and Talk for Wellness to learn from diverse perspectives while applying my interdisciplinary background.
Luisa is available at our Benowa location on the Gold Coast region​​
Counsellor trainee
Rebecca Power
Hi, I’m Bec, and I'm completing a Bachelor of Psychology at Griffith University, with the goal of becoming a registered psychologist. In my previous life as a high school teacher I gained first-hand experience supporting young people through life’s challenges by building positive, respectful relationships that valued them as individuals. I strongly believe in the power of genuine human connection to promote mental health and wellbeing within our community.
I also have a great love of the outdoors; walking, hiking with my family, and being in nature. I love that Walk and Talk for Wellness combines these elements of connection, movement and nature in a way that makes it accessible and meaningful, and I’m looking forward to walking with you in the beautiful Botanic Gardens soon.
Bec is available at our Benowa location on the Gold Coast region​​