Hello, I’m Xzarina

Xarina Nicholson, Transpersonal Trauma Therapist. A woman in a white shirt standing confidently with crossed arms, outside in a garden with trees and bushes, and a house in the background.

I’m an experienced transpersonal psychotherapist, trained in Transpersonal Therapy & Counselling, EMDR, Internal Family Systems and yogic therapies.

I’ve worked internationally with clients in clinical, holistic and humanitarian settings, including rehabilitation centres, yoga retreats and conflict zones.

I’m constantly inspired and humbled by the magnificence and quiet determination of the human spirit to transform, heal and regenerate, no matter the context. 

It begins with an intention to free ourselves, to surrender what no longer serves us or the world, to embrace our messy humanity and vulnerability, and to live more fully — with heart and soul.

I believe it is our birthright to craft authentic lives of meaning, beauty and purpose beyond the restrictions of outdated narratives and limiting beliefs. I offer a safe, compassionate space for clients to share their experiences, navigate challenges, reclaim personal power and life-enhancing values and resources.

  • MSc, Consciousness, Spirituality & Transpersonal Psychology (current)

    Liverpool John Moores University, UK

    Advanced Diploma, Transpersonal Therapy & Counselling

    College of Complimentary Medicine, Sydney, Australia

    Bachelor of Arts (Honours First Class)

    University of Queensland, Australia

    Bachelor of Arts in International Relations

    University of Queensland, Australia

Simple line drawing of a person bending over a shoreline reaching towards a floating flower with a pearl in the centre.

Who I work with . . .

  • People struggling with the effects of trauma (e.g. addiction, relationship issues, fear, chronic fatigue or pain).

  • Those intentionally seeking to enhance their lives through transformation and change.

  • Individuals suffering from burnout, depression and/or anxiety.

  • Those experiencing grief, a sense of emptiness, hopelessness or low self-esteem.

  • Anyone wanting to infuse more joy and meaning into their lives.

“Xzarina is extremely intelligent, highly intuitive, has a big heart and natural compassion. She understands what deep soul work is and what it entails and has a great capacity to quickly understand complex issues.”

- Serge Beddington-Behrens M.A. (Oxon.), Ph.D., K.O.M.L.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is trauma?

I view trauma as prolonged, negative effects of adverse life experiences that a person is unable to overcome. Symptoms include anxiety, depression, addictions, disordered eating, self-harm or self-sabotage, pervasive fear and relating issues.

Big ‘T’ (acute) traumas are single-event, life-threatening events that can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These are obvious traumatic events like accidents, war, disasters, divorce, etc.

Small ‘t’ (chronic/complex) traumas occur repeatedly over a period of time, affecting our sense of self, belonging and well-being. They can be detrimental to health, identity and relationships.

What is EMDR?

EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing.

It requires minimal talking and is recognised by the World Health Organisation as a powerful, evidence-based therapy for trauma treatment.

It’s not for everyone though. If suitable, we will discuss how to integrate EMDR into your treatment plan after consultation.

What is transpersonal therapy?

Transpersonal therapy is holistic therapy. We consider the whole individual — body, mind, heart, environment, culture, family history, etc. — and beyond.

It literally means ‘Trans’ = beyond and ‘Personal’ = the ego, so we’re open to exploring all the potentials of our individual and collective experience.

Some people call it ‘spiritual psychology’. I like to call it ‘soul’ therapy. We’re so much more than we ‘think’ we are.

How many sessions will I need?

Again, this depends on you and the nature of what you’re working through.

Big ‘T’ traumas can be treated relatively quickly with EMDR (6—10 sessions).

Small ‘t’ traumas are easily dismissed but can contribute to complex PTSD (CPTSD). These usually take time, patience, trust and safety to heal . . . but it’s worth it.

What kind of thing will we do?

That depends on you. Every human being is unique and comes to therapy with his/her own story, history, family, challenges, resources and needs.

It’s important to find the right ‘medicine’ for the wound. We’re complex creatures with infinite resources in our toolbox. I work in the ‘here and now’, listening carefully to help you discover what works for you.

This might involve talking, breathing, creative expression, music, somatics/movement, EMDR, guided meditation/visualisation, dreamwork, ritual or simply sitting in silence together.

What if I cannot afford therapy?

I understand that the cost of quality therapy is beyond the budget of many people. If you feel you would benefit from working with me but are not able to afford the standard rate due to financial hardship, please enquire about my sliding-scale prices.

*NB. There is a waiting list for these spaces.