- Family conflict
- Trauma and abuse
- Mindfulness
About John
John Obalum is an AASW social worker with seven years' experience in Australia. He helps people dealing with family conflict, trauma and abuse, intimacy-related issues, parenting concerns and anger. He speaks English and Igbo and has worked in mental health and child protection settings.
His approach is down-to-earth and conversational. Sessions focus on what is happening now and what the person wants to change. He listens and encourages people to talk about thoughts and feelings without judgement. That first step can be the hardest, and he supports people through it.
John draws on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and mindfulness to help people notice difficult thoughts and decide what matters to them. He also uses client-centred listening and elements of existential work to explore meaning, responsibility and life choices. Motivational interviewing helps when someone feels stuck or unsure about change.
In practice John works with practical concerns such as communication problems, attachment and abandonment issues, caregiver stress, and problems with impulse control and anger. He can help people dealing with separation, guilt and shame, or midlife and life-purpose questions. Sessions aim to clarify goals and try small, manageable steps between meetings.
People can expect a straightforward style that focuses on clear conversation and gradual skill building. John draws from his background with young people and child protection to inform how he listens and responds. He avoids jargon and explains each step so people know what to expect before they start.
How John uses therapy approaches online
John often uses Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help people notice difficult thoughts and focus on values-driven action; this can be useful for anxiety about social situations, guilt, or problems with motivation. He also draws on client-centred therapy, which means listening carefully and following the person's pace so concerns about family, parenting or relationships can be discussed in plain language.Finding the right approach is part of the process. John works collaboratively to identify which methods feel helpful based on the person's goals and preferences. He will discuss options and adapt his style so sessions match what the person wants to work on.
The therapist's biography does not list specific session formats, so confirm the available options before booking. Online sessions can make it easier to fit therapy into a busy day, reduce travel time and allow shorter check-ins when needed. They also let people choose quieter surroundings or avoid being on camera if that helps them engage. Overall, online work aims to make regular sessions more practical while focusing on the same therapeutic steps as in-person meetings.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
7+ years
Listed in
Australia
Languages
English, Igbo
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of concerns can be raised in sessions?
John works with family conflict, trauma and abuse, intimacy-related issues, parenting concerns and anger, plus related topics such as attachment, separation and isolation.
How does he approach therapy?
He uses conversational, client-centred listening alongside Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, mindfulness and motivational interviewing to set practical goals and try small changes.
How much experience does he have?
He has seven years of professional experience, including roles in mental health and child protection settings.
What are his credentials and where is he based?
He is listed with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) and practises in Australia.
Which languages are supported in sessions?
Sessions are offered in English and Igbo.
What session formats are available?
The biography does not specify session formats; please confirm current session options before booking.
How are fees handled?
Cost varies with location and sessions use a subscription that can be cancelled at any time.
How do I begin working with him?
Select the See online therapy options button, complete the short matching questionnaire, and schedule a first session.