Rod Cole

Introducing Rod

Rod Cole is a dynamic and deeply compassionate therapist, supervisor, meditator, and facilitator, weaving contemplation and action into his work to inspire change, creativity, and growth. With a passion for helping individuals transform fear into excitement and embrace their shadows and vulnerabilities, Rod empowers his clients to live lives filled with purpose, vitality, and passion. His approach emphasizes authenticity, emotional resilience, and meaningful connections, making him a skilled collaborator and trusted guide in personal and relational transformation.

Career

Rod’s professional journey is as eclectic as it is impressive, encompassing roles in diverse industries and settings. From working alongside some of Australia’s top chefs and restaurant managers to hairdressing with world champion stylists, and from health administration in public and private sectors to managing health promotion projects, Rod has consistently brought creativity and dedication to every endeavour. He has also designed and facilitated workshops on relationships and sexuality, reflecting his commitment to fostering understanding and growth in these areas.

Experience

Since 2008, Rod has worked as a clinical practitioner, supporting individuals, couples, and groups with a focus on issues such as grief and loss, change, ageing, shame, despair, resentment, frustration, and hope. His therapeutic approach blends a range of therapies, offering clients tailored strategies for healing and growth. Rod’s experience spans roles at prominent organisations, including Qantas, Royal North Shore and North Shore Private Hospital, Canberra Hospital, Wesley Mission, Relationships Australia, and a leading EAP provider.

Profession

Rod’s dedication to his craft is reflected in his extensive qualifications, which include an Advanced Diploma in Gestalt Therapy, Level 1 Schema Therapy, Level 1 EMDR Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, and a Master’s in Counselling (in progress). He has trained under renowned leaders in therapy, sexuality, personal development, and spirituality, including Stephanie Dowrick, Esther Perel, Terry Real, Julia Samuel, Dr. Ellyn Bader, Joseph Kramer, and Brené Brown.

Excellence

Rod is the co-creator and co-facilitator of the Relationship Rescue Group and a senior clinician in the We Belong EAP team offering support to the LGBTIQA+ community. His ability to create safe, transformative spaces for his clients makes him an invaluable asset to Shemewé Collective’s mission of fostering connection, authenticity, and growth.

Fun Fact

While some say Rod is very handy—able to whip up a soufflé and grow magnificent roses—he openly admits he’s hopeless at assembling flat-pack furniture, despite a brief stint working at IKEA. Rod’s life and work have taught him that cultivating pleasure in small daily practices helps us move through distress, grief, and uncertainty. He believes pleasure can reset us, stabilise us, and connect us—whether it’s an infectious smile, a delicious song that gets everyone moving, or a simple touch that can transcend the hardest moments. Rod sees his mission in life as promoting everyday pleasure.