Shoko Kasanami , AASW

Shoko Kasanami is a licensed practitioner in Australia who draws on both professional training and lived experience to support people facing depression, anxiety, addictions, low self-esteem, and other mental health concerns. She holds a Master of Social Work degree and is affiliated with AASW (the Australian Association of Social Workers), and she has four years of experience working with people from complex backgrounds.

After relocating from Canada, Shoko developed her practice through roles that include working for a government child protection department and supporting offender rehabilitation programs. Those experiences shaped her understanding of trauma, risk, and the practical challenges that can follow difficult life events. She uses this background to inform an empathetic, strengths-focused approach to care.

Shoko aims to create a non-judgmental space where people can talk openly about their feelings and experiences. She emphasizes listening, collaborative goal-setting, and practical strategies that match each person’s circumstances. Fluent in English and Japanese, she works with clients on issues such as stress, coping with life changes, body image, guilt and shame, loneliness, life purpose, and mood disorders.

Outside of her clinical work, Shoko enjoys motorcycles, skateboarding, and music, and she brings a down-to-earth, supportive presence to her therapeutic relationships.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Support with Shoko Kasanami

Shoko draws on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy to guide online work. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps people identify and shift unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviors by using practical exercises and skill-building - it is often used for anxiety, depression, and stress-related symptoms. Narrative Therapy focuses on the stories people tell about their lives and separates the person from the problem, helping to reclaim agency and explore new meanings for difficult experiences. Solution-Focused Therapy concentrates on practical steps and existing strengths to move toward clear, achievable goals, which can be especially helpful for people seeking change in areas like addictions, low self-esteem, or life transitions.

Finding the right approach is a collaborative process. Shoko works with each person to understand their needs, goals, and preferences, and she tailors techniques from these approaches to create a plan that fits the individual. This process may include trying different strategies and adjusting the focus as progress is made.

Online therapy with Shoko is offered via video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging, providing flexibility for different schedules and comfort levels. These options make it easier to access regular support from licensed professionals while balancing work, family, or other commitments, and they allow therapy to continue even when in-person sessions are not feasible.