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Qualifications & Professional Experience

I hold a BA Psychology, Graduate Diploma of Counselling as well as a Diploma of Community Services and End-of-Life Doula Professional Certificate. I am an accredited counsellor and a member of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA).

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I am a person-centred, neuroaffirming therapist and my approach draws from evidence-based modalities such as Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Polyvagal Theory.

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My work focuses on helping individuals deepen their self-understanding and increase emotional capacity while navigating life’s challenges with compassion and clarity. I believe that with compassion, honesty, insight, and acceptance, we can all move toward a life of greater freedom and authentic self-expression.

 

Before becoming a counsellor, I spent many years in the Community Services sector. My career began alongside individuals experiencing homelessness, poverty, addiction, family and sexual violence, mental health challenges, and trauma. This work offered me a deep understanding of how broader systems shape our lives and how these systemic pressures can intensify personal distress. These experiences inform the way I practise today; with empathy, awareness of context, and a commitment to honouring each person’s unique story.


Having been deeply moved by witnessing my grandmother’s final days, I went on to complete a professional certificate as an End-of-Life Doula. This experience shaped my appreciation for the full spectrum of the human journey and drew me to support individuals in their final stage of life.

Cori Pignatelli, Neuroaffirming Therapist, LGBTQIA+ Therapist, End-of-Life Counselling

Personal perspective, understanding and lived experience:

I am a queer and neurodivergent therapist who arrived at self-acceptance through personal challenge. I deeply value and
celebrate individuality and difference. Having once struggled to find a sense of belonging, I’m committed to supporting others as they explore who they are and to cultivate joy, safety, and ease within themselves. Through developing insight and practical skills, I help clients navigate the ups and downs of life with greater confidence and resilience.

As a human being:

I spend my free time with my community, often gathering around music and dancing. Swimming is a grounding activity and I love to be anywhere near to a body of water. I am adventuresome by nature and seeking out new experiences helps me to stay connected to curiosity, personal growth, and pleasure. I have a values and growth oriented mindset and remain committed to my own therapeutic journey which in turn supports the work I do with clients.

Professional Development:

  • Mastering Polyvagal Theory for Trauma Professionals: A Start to Finish Trauma Certification Program.

  • Complete IFS Therapy Immersion: Integrating the Internal Family Systems (IFS) Model Across Clinical Applications.

  • Sex, Desire & Attachment with Emily Nagasoki.

  • Trauma-Informed Care & Decolonising Mental Health.

My personal values:

  • Compassion

  • Honesty

  • Insight

  • Acceptance

  • Freedom/Liberation

© 2026 by Cori Pignatelli Psychotherapy

ACA Accreditation Logo
End-of-Life Doula Certificate Logo

I  acknowledge the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the lands on which I live and work. I pay my respects to Indigenous Elders past and present on the land of the Bidjigal and Gadigal people. Sovereignty has never been ceded. It always was and always will be, Aboriginal land. 

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