Josephine Byrnes-Luna

Welcome, I'm Josephine Byrnes-Luna.

For almost two decades I have had the privilege of supporting individuals, couples, children and families through some of life's most challenging and important moments. Whether through counselling, mediation, Family Dispute Resolution, family therapy or professional supervision, my goal has always been the same, to help people feel heard, gain clarity and move towards positive, lasting outcomes.

Every person, every family and every relationship has its own story. My role is not to judge or tell people what to do, but to provide a safe, respectful and supportive environment where people can openly explore their circumstances, feel genuinely heard, and work towards outcomes that are practical, well considered, acceptable to everyone involved and where necessary in the best interests of the children.

Throughout my career I have seen that many disputes can be resolved without lengthy court proceedings. With the right guidance, respectful communication and a willingness to work together, people are often able to achieve practical and lasting outcomes, particularly where children are involved. I have always believed that preserving relationships where possible, reducing conflict and helping people make informed decisions benefits everyone involved.

My experience across counselling, family therapy, mediation, Family Dispute Resolution and legal education allows me to bring a broad and balanced perspective to every matter. I recognise that every person and every family is different, so I take the time to consider the emotional, practical and relational aspects of each situation, tailoring my approach to the individual, the family and their unique circumstances.

As my practice has continued to evolve, I am pleased to now offer co-mediation for both parenting and financial and property matters. By working alongside an experienced family law practitioner, this approach combines the perspectives of social science and family law, allowing clients to benefit from two experienced professionals throughout the mediation process. It is a practical and cost effective service that brings together two complementary areas of expertise, providing clients with the support and guidance needed to make informed decisions.

Professionally, I am a Registered Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner, Professional Counsellor, Nationally Accredited Mediator, Professional Supervisor and Lecturer and Subject Co ordinator in Family Dispute Resolution and Alternative Dispute Resolution within the Faculty of Law at Western Sydney University.

My counselling experience spans personal and relationship counselling, couples therapy, childhood development and parenting, workplace matters, professional supervision, and high conflict and complex family situations. Family therapy and Family Dispute Resolution and FDR Co-mediation have become significant areas of my practice, supporting families through a broad range of parenting and relationship issues. I also prepare a variety of private reports for family law matters and undertake child inclusive work where appropriate.

Before establishing my private practice, I spent almost three decades in the public sector, working across both the NSW and Commonwealth Governments. During that time I gained extensive experience in public policy, government programs, regulation reform, consumer affairs and organisational leadership. I have also served on a number of community boards in the roles of Board Member, Vice President, President and Board Advisor. These experiences have broadened my understanding of people, organisations and communities, perspectives that continue to influence my work today.

On a personal level, I am happily married and the mother of two sons. Family has always been at the heart of my life, and my own experiences continue to reinforce the importance of communication, understanding and supporting one another through life's challenges.

Helping people has never simply been my profession, it has been my passion. It is a privilege to be invited into people's lives at times when they may be feeling uncertain, overwhelmed or facing difficult decisions. I never take that responsibility for granted.

I look forward to meeting you and walking alongside you as you take the next step towards achieving positive and lasting outcomes.

Josephine Byrnes-Luna

You can also access my LinkedIn profile for more information about me professionally.

Professional Affiliations & Memberships

Qualifications:

• Master of Counselling (Distinction) - University of Canberra

• Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP)

• UWS Lecturer faculty of Law - Family Dispute Resolution and Alternative Dispute Resolution

• Nationally Accredited Mediator (AMDRAS)

• Registered Professional Counsellor (MACA L4)

• Parenting Co-ordinator

• Family Therapy

• Professional Supervision (ACA College of Supervisors)

Qualified Member of:

• University of Canberra Alumni

• The College of Law - Graduate Student Ambassador and Alumni

• Australian Counsellors Association

• The Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors

• The ACA College of Supervisors

• The Mediation Institute

• Children Beyond Dispute

Awards

Barry Nilsson Best Graduating Student Prize in Family Dispute Resolution Practice – The College of Law 2021. This award is for all students (all states) graduating with Family Dispute Resolution Practice, whether a Graduate Diploma or a major in the Master of Laws program.

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Member of:

Australian Counselling Academy, Greater Narellan Chamber of Commerce, NSW Chamber of Commerce.