At Open Arms Health, I believe that every person deserves a space where they can speak openly, feel safe, and move forward — at their own pace, without judgement.
My personal and professional journey has been shaped by change, loss, and meaningful conversations. Having lived internationally and navigated significant life transitions, I understand how powerful it can be to feel truly heard during times of uncertainty and growth.
After the loss of my mother in 2012 and returning from Canada to Australia, I committed to my training in Counselling and Psychotherapy, transitioning into the mental health field with a strong focus on compassionate, relational care.
In 2018, I founded Open Arms Health on the Gold Coast — a practice grounded in the belief that healing begins where compassion meets conversation.
I offer a calm, supportive space where clients can speak openly, explore their experiences, and feel understood, supported, and empowered to move forward at their own pace.
"I've been seeing Shawn Matthews for a while now, and I truly appreciate her. She's always very comforting and really listens. Her insights have helped me understand myself better!"
— Verified Client, She's The Best! (July 2025)With over 20 years experience in childhood development and 10 years in the Mental Health space, I dedicate myself to human development. The human brain is capable of so much — and when we use it to the best of our ability, magic happens.
Your relationships change, your life transforms, and you realise that your past does not have to define you. Every session is a step toward the life you deserve.
At Open Arms Health, we believe that meaningful change begins within a safe, compassionate therapeutic relationship. Healing happens when clients feel genuinely heard, understood, and met without judgement.
Our approach is grounded in the belief that therapy is a collaborative process. The therapist and client work together through open, respectful conversation — exploring experiences, emotions, and patterns at a pace that feels right for the client.
We do not seek to "fix" people, but to support understanding, self-compassion, and growth. We recognise that wellbeing is shaped by relationships, life experiences, and the connection between mind and body.
Each person's story is honoured, and support is tailored to the individual rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
At Open Arms Health, we believe growth happens through connection and collaboration. Therapy is a shared process, where the therapist and client work together through open, compassionate conversation.
Collaborative support means your voice, experiences, and goals guide the work. Sessions are tailored to your needs and move at a pace that feels safe and supportive.
Open Heart Magazine is a publication dedicated to mental wellness, relationships, and personal growth — co-created by Shawn Matthews and Amanda Hargreaves to bring compassionate, accessible guidance to everyday readers.
With four editions available, Open Heart explores topics close to Shawn's heart: healing from loss, building meaningful relationships, and finding clarity through self-reflection. Each edition is crafted with the same warmth and care that defines every session at Open Arms Health.
I hold a Bachelor of Applied Social Science and am a certified Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) Practitioner. With years of lived experience navigating relationships and human behaviour, I bring both professional training and real-world insight to every session.
I understand that every mind is different. That's why I design therapy and recovery paths that are customised to your unique needs, life experiences, and personal goals — no cookie-cutter approaches.
My practice offers a calm, safe, and non-judgmental space where you can open up freely and begin healing at your own pace — without fear, pressure, or stigma of any kind.
I combine the latest psychological research with genuine human connection to ensure your mental health journey is both effective and deeply compassionate — evidence-based and heart-centred.
I care for you beyond the therapy room. With follow-ups, resources, and ongoing encouragement, my support continues even after your appointment ends — because healing doesn't stop at the door.
My clients walk in with fear and uncertainty, and walk out with strength, confidence, and hope. Their stories of growth, resilience, and recovery are the most powerful proof of what's possible.
What my clients say about their experience at Open Arms Health.
"Therapy has made a meaningful difference for both me and my partner. With the support of Shawn Matthews, we've grown tremendously and are finally moving forward together on a healthier, more positive path."
"I was going through a very challenging time. After speaking with Shawn for several months I feel like a completely new person. She has made me feel happy and strong again. I honestly cannot thank her enough for all her help and guidance."
"I have been talking to Shawn for one year now and she has been pivotal in the change that I have gone through. This was my first time ever doing counselling and she has been very patient and calming, making me feel at ease and confident enough to open up."
