Meet Samantha

I’m so glad you’re here.

I believe everyone deserves a space where they can slow down, feel heard, and make sense of what’s happening in their lives. Life isn’t always straightforward, and sometimes we all need someone who will listen without judgement, help us see things differently, and support us in finding a way forward.

I believe counselling works best when we work together. You bring your story, your experiences and your goals. I bring professional knowledge, practical tools and a compassionate, non-judgemental approach to help you better understand yourself, navigate life’s challenges, and create meaningful, lasting change.

My Story

Before becoming a counsellor, I spent more than 25 years leading teams, mentoring people and building four successful businesses. I also founded The Warwick Cancer Foundation in honour of my late brother and have volunteered in community support programs, including PAWS Pet Therapy. These experiences have deepened my understanding of grief, resilience and the importance of human connection.

Like many people, life hasn’t always gone to plan for me either. I’ve experienced deep grief, lived with anxiety and faced challenges that have shaped the person—and the counsellor—I am today. Those experiences strengthened my belief in the importance of feeling heard, supported and understood. They also inspired me to complete my Diploma of Counselling and create The Connection Room.

Who I Help

I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, grief, life transitions, low self-worth, relationship issues and emotional overwhelm and supporting couples is central to my work. I believe healthy relationships are built through understanding, communication, trust and emotional safety. Whether you’re hoping to reconnect after growing apart, improve communication, navigate conflict or betrayal, or simply understand each other more deeply, I provide a balanced space where both people can feel heard, respected and understood. Having experienced the value of couples counselling myself, I understand both the courage it takes to ask for help and the difference it can make.

Supporting Men

I also have a particular interest in creating a space where men feel comfortable. Many men have spent a lifetime believing they need to deal with things on their own. I want counselling to feel approachable, practical and free from judgement, helping men strengthen their relationships, build emotional resilience, and become the man they want to be.

My Approach

My approach is warm, genuine and collaborative. I combine practical, evidence-informed strategies with compassion and curiosity, tailoring each session to your unique needs and goals. My work with couples is informed by Level 1 and Level 2 training in the Gottman Method, alongside other evidence-informed counselling approaches.

Professional Standards

As a Registered Counsellor and Member of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA), I’m committed to ongoing professional development and regular clinical supervision. This ensures my practice remains ethical, informed by current research and aligned with best practice, so you can feel confident you’re receiving high-quality, professional care.

Taking The First Step

I know reaching out can feel like the hardest step. If you’re here, you’ve already taken it.

Whether you’re seeking support for yourself or your relationship, it would be a privilege to be part of your journey as you build healthier relationships with yourself and the people who matter most.

Because healthier relationships don’t just change our lives—they change the lives of the people we love.

Samantha Payne
Registered Counsellor
Founder, The Connection Room

Member, Australian Counselling Association
M.A.C.A. (Level 1)