Tom’s approach

I offer 1-on-1 and group counselling sessions to young people looking for a partner to explore life’s challenges.

Young people tell me they feel valued and motivated when someone really listens to the challenges of growing up in an increasingly complex and uncertain world.

My ethics are influenced by Human-Centred Coaching and Narrative Therapy, approaches rooted in post-structuralist theory. This method does not see the person as someone to be fixed, but as doing their best to deal with a problem. I walk alongside my clients to explore their stories and preferred identities, taking a de-centred but influential position that sees the young person as the expert in their own lives.

This approach also doesn’t get bogged down in the problem too much but explores the ways the young person is already managing to resist the problems in their lives.

Young people say they enjoy this non-judgmental, curious and collaborative approach.

Testimonials

Gustavo “I always felt taken seriously with Tom. He really listened and I always left our sessions feeling good about myself and with a bit more calmness in my head”

Milan “The sessions were just really relaxing, even though I had to do a lot of thinking about myself. I like myself alot more now and am excited about the future, which wasn’t the case before we met.

Hamer “Tom’s workshop was so cool. I learnt just how creative I am. It inspired me to go home that night and start a fashion profile on Instagram - I got 1000 followers in 1 day. Thank you Tom!”

About Tom

Tom acknowledges his privileges as a cis-hetero white man of Italian and Lebanese ethnicity, living on stolen Kaurna Land or so-called "Australia”.

Tom (he/they) began their career in the world of political advocacy before moving to Berlin to make award-winning biographical documentary films and podcasts. Tom used his skills and passion for story-telling and social justice to then start working with young people and adults across Europe as a Life and Career Coach.

After returning to Kaurna Yerta (Adelaide) he has recently worked for The Men’s Project at Jesuit Social Services, Youth Inc alternative school and as a Men’s Behaviour Change Practioner with the SA Department of Correctional Services.

Qualifications

Masters in Narrative Therapy and Community Work, University of Melbourne, 2024-2025

Graduate Diploma of Psychology, Monash University, 2022-2023

Transformational Coaching Diploma, Animas Centre, 2021

Bachelors of Economics & Arts, Univeristy of Adelaide, 2009-2012

Memberships

Australian Counselling Association

Working together

Tom is available for private bookings and contract work with schools and organisations.

Book a session here and feel free to reach out with any questions.

thomas.pagliaro1@gmail.com or 0414442942