Stylianos 'Stel' Papastratis

Stylianos 'Stel' Papastratis is an ACA counsellor with more than 21 years in mental health practice. He aims to help people who feel overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, depression, relationship strain, grief or bipolar challenges. Stel speaks English and Greek and presents a calm, direct approach to starting difficult conversations.

Stel has worked in non-profit organisations, government services and private clinics across Australia, the UK and continental Europe. That breadth means he has experience talking with people from different backgrounds and life stages. He focuses on practical ways to manage emotions and day-to-day problems rather than jargon-filled explanations.

Sessions are set up so clients can share thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. Stel says the first step takes courage, and he aims to support people through that step at a steady pace. He keeps sessions straightforward and outcome-oriented while staying responsive to each person’s pace.

His clinical training includes a Bachelor and Honours in Psychological Sciences, a Graduate Diploma of Counselling and a Diploma of Professional Counselling. He also holds a Diploma in Clinical Hypnotherapy and certificates in Emotional Freedom Technique at basic and advanced levels. These are part of the background he draws on when helping people manage symptoms and improve daily functioning.

People who want clear, practical support for anxiety, mood problems, grief or relationship challenges often find his style useful. He encourages realistic goals and regular check-ins so progress can be noticed and adjusted as needed.

Therapeutic approaches and how they help online

Stel draws from evidence-based therapeutic techniques that focus on practical change and emotional regulation. One common approach he uses aims to help people identify unhelpful thinking patterns and develop alternative responses to stress and anxiety; it works well for worry, low mood and everyday coping. Another approach emphasises building awareness of emotions and relationships, helping people understand attachment patterns and manage relationship difficulties.

Finding the right approach is part of the work together. Stel will talk with each person about their goals, preferences and what has or hasn’t helped before. Together they decide which methods to try and adjust the plan as progress is made.

If you are considering online sessions, confirm the exact session formats before booking since the biography does not list specific options. Online work can make it easier to fit therapy around work, caregiving or travel, reduce time spent commuting, and allow shorter check-ins when needed. It can also make it simpler to continue therapy while relocating within Australia. Ask about available formats when you book so sessions match your practical needs.