The Heart of Serendipity
Finding meaning, patterns, and possibility in the unexpected
Sometimes we stumble across something at just the right moment, even if we weren't searching for it. That's the heart of serendipity: an unexpected but fortunate discovery—finding something good, valuable, or healing when we least expect it.
The word comes from an old Persian fairy tale, The Three Princes of Serendip. In the story, three young princes set out on a journey. Along the way, they kept making discoveries not because they were chasing them, but because they were open, curious, and wise enough to notice what others overlooked. Their gift was not luck alone, but the ability to see meaning, patterns, and possibility in the unexpected.
In therapy, serendipity often shows up in the same way: a small shift in perspective, an insight that lands just right, or a moment of deep connection that begins to change everything. Healing doesn't always arrive in dramatic breakthroughs; more often, it unfolds in these serendipitous moments of awareness, courage, and compassion.
I am drawn to this wisdom because it mirrors how I see therapy: not as pathologising your story, but honouring it as part of your humanity. At Serendipity Therapy, I offer a space where your story can be explored with curiosity and care, creating the conditions for growth, healing, and unexpected transformation.
Meet Maneka
Passionate about supporting mental health across the lifespan and all socio-cultural groups
Experience & Approach
Over the past 15 years, I have worked extensively with survivors of torture, trauma, and immigrant communities, bringing both professional expertise and lived experience to my practice. My background as a youth worker has given me a strong understanding of how harmful systems can reinforce vulnerabilities, deepening my commitment to social justice and culturally responsive care.
I offer telehealth services exclusively, providing flexible and accessible support wherever you are across Australia.
Rooted in an attachment-based, trauma-informed framework, I take an integrative approach, drawing from cognitive, behavioural, psychodynamic, humanistic, and somatic therapies. I incorporate holistic, body-based approaches that help clients feel into their body's wisdom, rebuild connection with themselves, and develop a deeper, embodied understanding of their health and wellbeing.
More recently, I have incorporated EMDR into my practice to support clients through complex trauma and profound emotional healing.
Through telehealth, I create a safe and compassionate online space where you can explore your story, gain insight into how you function, and develop strategies to navigate challenges—all while being supported in a way that honours your experiences, body, and cultural background.
Areas of Support
I work with individuals navigating a wide range of emotional, psychological, and relational challenges.
Complex trauma (C-PTSD)
Healing from ongoing, long-term experiences and early developmental wounds.
Single-incident trauma
Processing PTSD resulting from specific events or sudden life-altering experiences.
Depression & Mood
Support for low mood, persistent sadness, and finding a path back to vitality.
Anxiety & Stress
Managing chronic stress, overwhelm, and the physical symptoms of anxiety.
Intergenerational Trauma
Exploring family patterns and inherited emotional legacies across generations.
War & Conflict Trauma
Specialised support for those affected by conflict and its enduring psychological impacts.
Migration Stress
Navigating cultural adjustment, displacement, and the challenges of resettlement.
Parenting Challenges
Supporting parents, particularly those raising families outside their home culture.
Youth & Adolescent
Dedicated clinical support tailored for the unique concerns of young people.
Self-Confidence
Building self-worth, agency, and a more compassionate relationship with yourself.
Friendship & Social
Navigating difficulties in social connections and building meaningful community.
Relationship Issues
Support for partnership challenges, communication, and emotional intimacy.
Holistic Wellbeing & Life Dynamics
What to Expect
Your journey begins here—at your pace, in your way
Feeling Nervous?
Completely understandable! Starting therapy can feel daunting, and it's normal to have some nerves.
Good news: I am currently taking new clients. Please book in for a 15-minute call to see if we are the right match, or contact my admin team to book an initial session.
Waitlist Information
Due to high demand, my books are often full. If this happens, you may be placed on a waitlist.
While it's not possible to predict how long the wait may be, you are welcome to stay on the list while exploring other options. You will be contacted as soon as a space becomes available.
First Session
Before your first session, you'll be asked to complete some paperwork. We'll review privacy laws and confidentiality limits.
I'll ask questions about yourself, your life, and your goals for therapy. My primary aim is to help you feel comfortable and supported as we start working toward your goals.
Ongoing Sessions
Our sessions are a space to explore, learn, and grow. You may reflect on patterns, try new approaches, develop skills, and gain fresh perspectives.
There is no single "right way" to do therapy—we will do therapy your way, at your pace, in a way that works for you.
Telehealth Convenience
100% Telehealth Services in the comfort of your home, anywhere across Australia.
Appointments available Monday through Friday, with limited after-hours availability. Flexible scheduling to suit your life.
Professional Differences
Psychotherapists provide talk-based and body-based therapies for emotional healing and growth.
Psychologists focus on assessments and evidence-based treatments (Medicare eligible). Psychiatrists are medical doctors who prescribe medication.
Transparent Pricing
Accessible fees designed to support your healing journey
Payment via direct deposit
Direct billing available
Paperwork required before first session
Medicare & Rebates
Psychotherapy is not covered by Medicare rebates in Australia. Unlike psychology sessions under a Mental Health Care Plan, psychotherapy sessions are not eligible for Medicare or bulk billing.
Some private health insurance extras policies may provide rebates. Please contact your health insurer directly to confirm eligibility.
Cancellation Policy
- More than 24 hours' notice: No fee applies
- Less than 24 hours or missed session: Full fee applies
- Must be paid before your next appointment
- Cancellation fees not eligible for rebates
Professional Membership
I am a fully accredited PACFA (Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia) member. This professional association requires ongoing standards for training, supervision, and ethical practice.
Complaints & Feedback
Your experience matters. Please raise any concerns directly with me first. For formal complaints, contact PACFA at www.pacfa.org.au or your state's Health Complaints Commissioner.
Ready to Begin?
Take the first step towards healing and growth
Availability
Monday - Friday appointments
Limited after-hours availability
Australia-wide
telehealth services
Specialties
Trauma & EMDR therapy
Cultural responsiveness
Attachment-based
approach
Somatic & body-based work
Get in Touch
Ready to start your journey? Book in for a free 15-minute call to see if we are the right match. We'll guide you through the process and answer any questions.
Currently Accepting New Clients
Book your initial consultation today. We'll help you get started on your path to healing and growth.
Or call for a brief chat during business hours