Free to be me

Shaun Williams is the founder of Bent Couch Counselling, a leading mental health service established in October 2022 that provides compassionate, inclusive support tailored for the LGBTQIA+ community. After coming out in 2019, Shaun transformed his personal journey into a mission to support others in finding resilience, self-acceptance, and meaningful connections. Bent Couch Counselling specialises in helping individuals work through challenges such as burnout, anxiety, shame, life transitions, and relationship issues, all within a non-judgemental, safe environment that respects diverse gender identities and experiences.In addition to one-on-one counselling, Shaun facilitates Community Couch Conversations, a group space where gay and queer men can connect, share, and feel part of a community. In 2020, he also founded Gay Fathers Worldwide, an online peer support group for gay men with children from heterosexual relationships, now a thriving global community of over 1,000 members. These initiatives reflect Shaun’s commitment to creating supportive networks that empower LGBTQIA+ individuals to lead more authentic lives.A proud father of four, Shaun resides in Melbourne with his male partner and their blended family. As a cis gay man who embraced his identity later in life, he brings a unique perspective that bridges both “straight” and “bent” worlds, understanding the challenges that many in the LGBTQIA+ community face. Through Bent Couch Counselling, Shaun continues his dedication to positive mental health outcomes, fostering safe spaces for growth, connection, and acceptance. This is a wonderful conversation, not to be missed.To find out more about Shaun, Click hereMy website is www.andrewjobling.com.au