At eleven years old, I created a clay tablet on which I wrote “peace be with you.”

I still aspire to foster peace within myself and for others.

I consult with clients in the field of psychological wellbeing education, specialising in mindfulness and compassion-based contemplative approaches.

I have had the privilege of working with organisations, such as:

The University of Melbourne’s Contemplative Studies Centre;
Openground, Australia’s leading provider of MBSR and MBCT programs and teacher training;
The Australian Association for Buddhist Counsellors and Psychotherapists; and
Jess Huon, a prominent Australian Buddhist Teacher.

I also offer meditation guidance informed by my own meditation journey since 2009; a meditation teacher certification in mindfulness and compassion-based resilience; and my Masters studies in contemplative psychotherapy.

If you would like to explore how I could bring value to you or your organisation, I welcome you to contact me.

Credentials

Masters in Counselling and Psychotherapy, Australian College of Applied Psychology, (2024-2026)

Contemplative Psychotherapy Certificate, Nalanda Institute for Contemplative Science (2021-2024)

Working Skilfully with Meditation-Related Safety and Challenges for Meditation Teachers, Cheetah House (2022)

Psychological First Aid, John Hopkins University (2022)

Compassion-based Resilience Training Certification, Nalanda Institute for Contemplative Science (2021)

Buddhism and Modern Psychology Certificate, Princeton University (2019)

The Science of Happiness Certificate, UC Berkley, (2018)

Existential Wellbeing Counselling Certificate, KU Leuven (2018)

Bachelor of Arts (Honours), Sociology, Swinburne University (2007-2009)

Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology), Swinburne University (2002-2007)

My Story

My name is pronounced NEHR-uh-duh.

Nerida is an Australian Aboriginal name meaning 'waterlily.' However, I'm actually named after an Aussie model my Mum admired in the 80’s, and fate led me to a career as a fashion model.

Not long after I started modelling, I had a traumatic international experience, which lead to anxiety and depression leaving me feeling utterly miserable and desperate. However, I found the resolve to craft a wellbeing plan, including daily meditation, that eventually ended my struggles.

Meditation served as a lifeline, leading me back to inner stillness beyond the conceptual 'me', offering freedom from the prison of the mind, alleviating much of my suffering.

My practice also held me through waves of grief when my Dad passed away unexpectedly and my Mum was diagnosed with Parkinson’s. All of these experiences have been pivotal in leading me towards a path and vocation in healing. My intention is to share insights, teachings, and meditative practices from my healing journey, hoping they'll benefit yours.

As Thich Nhat Hanh says: “No mud, no lotus.”