If you’ve ever wondered why some couples seem to stay close and connected even through tough times, while others get stuck in cycles of blame or distance, one of the most helpful tools we have comes from the work of Drs John and Julie Gottman. Their research has identified a simple but powerful pattern that […]
Author: John Belchamber
Transactional Analysis: A Simple Framework for Better Communication
Transactional Analysis (often called TA) is a practical psychological model that helps us understand why we communicate the way we do—and how small shifts can make our interactions calmer, clearer, and more connected. Developed by psychiatrist Eric Berne, TA suggests that we all move between three “ego states” in everyday conversations: 1. Parent This is the part […]
Book Summary: Plain Life by Antonia Pont
Antonia Pont’s Plain Life: On Thinking, Feeling and Deciding is a thoughtful, grounded exploration of what it means to live well—not in a grand, performative, or productivity-driven sense, but in a steady, attentive, deeply human way. For counselling clients, especially those navigating stress, decision-making, emotional overwhelm or the pressures of “getting life right,” Pont’s writing offers a […]
What to Do if Couples Counselling Isn’t Working for You
Couples counselling can be a powerful way to reconnect, communicate better, and work through challenges together. But what happens if it doesn’t seem to be helping? Many couples feel frustrated or disheartened when therapy doesn’t lead to the change they hoped for. If you find yourself in this position, it doesn’t necessarily mean your relationship—or […]
Staying Mentally Well During the Hot Weather Season ☀️
Living on the Sunshine Coast means we’re lucky to enjoy a warm, outdoor lifestyle — but when the temperatures soar, the heat can take a toll not just on our physical health, but also on our mental wellbeing. Hot, humid weather can lead to fatigue, irritability, disrupted sleep, and even increased anxiety or low mood. […]
How Climate Change Affects Our Mental Health
In recent years, many of us on the Sunshine Coast have noticed how conversations about climate change have become more urgent — and more personal. Whether it’s the increasing number of bushfires, floods, or heatwaves, or simply the uncertainty about what the future might hold, these changes are affecting not only our environment but also […]
Understanding Functional Analysis
Understanding Functional Analysis in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) If you’ve ever felt stuck in unhelpful patterns—whether it’s worrying, avoiding situations, or struggling with negative emotions—you might have wondered why it’s so hard to change. In Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), one tool that helps make sense of these patterns is Functional Analysis. What Is Functional […]
Top 10 Reasons People Use Their Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Most workplaces today offer an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) — a free, confidential counselling and support service designed to help employees manage life’s challenges. Yet many people still aren’t sure exactly what kind of issues an EAP can help with. Below are the ten most common reasons employees reach out to their EAP. 1. Work […]
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Manager FAQs
What is the Employee Assistance Program (EAP)? The EAP is a confidential and independent counselling and support service for employees (and often their immediate family members).It’s designed to help people manage personal, family, or work-related issues that might affect their wellbeing or performance at work. As a manager, you can also contact the EAP for advice on supporting […]
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Frequently Asked Staff Questions
What is an Employee Assistance Program (EAP)? An EAP is a confidential counselling and support service provided by your employer to help you manage personal or work-related challenges. It’s designed to support your wellbeing and help you stay healthy, focused and productive — both at work and at home. What kinds of issues can I talk about […]