A practical guide for everyday moments We’ve all been there—voices raised, tension building, and a situation starting to feel like it could spiral. Whether it’s a disagreement at home, a tense moment at work, or a confrontation in public, knowing how to de-escalate can make a real difference. De-escalation isn’t about “winning” or shutting the […]
Author: John Belchamber
EAP Team Debriefs
Show moreShow less Why Team Debriefs Matter After a Workplace Incident Workplace incidents—whether critical events, conflict situations, or periods of intense pressure—can leave a lasting impact on individuals and teams. In the immediate aftermath, most organisations focus (rightly) on safety, compliance, and operational recovery. But there’s another step that’s just as important and often overlooked: […]
How to Use Private Health Insurance for Counselling Sessions
For many people, taking the step to begin counselling is a meaningful investment in their wellbeing. What’s often less well known is that your private health insurance may help cover part of the cost—making support more accessible and sustainable over time. At Sunny Coast Counselling, we’re registered with a range of private health funds, which […]
Reviewing and Renewing Your Life Plan
Reviewing and Renewing Your Life Plan: How Counselling Can Help You Move Forward with Clarity There are times in life when things look “fine” on the surface—but underneath, something feels off. You might feel stuck, restless, or unsure if you’re heading in the direction you truly want. Perhaps your goals no longer excite you, or […]
Recharging Over Easter: A Wellbeing Reset for Teachers
For many teachers, the lead-up to the Easter holidays feels less like a gentle finish line and more like a full sprint. Long hours, emotional labour, and the constant pressure of supporting students can quietly take a toll. The Easter break isn’t just time off—it’s an opportunity to reset, restore, and rebuild your mental and physical […]
Men Benefit From Counselling Too
For many men, going through a difficult time can feel like something you’re expected to handle on your own. Whether it’s stress at work, relationship challenges, grief, anger, or a sense that something just isn’t right, there can be a strong pressure to “push through” rather than reach out. But the truth is this: you […]
Five Quick Mindfulness Techniques You Can Use Every Day
When people hear the word mindfulness, they often imagine long meditation sessions or needing to completely clear their mind. In reality, mindfulness can be simple, practical, and woven into even the busiest day. At its heart, mindfulness is about gently bringing your attention to the present moment—without judgement. And the good news is, even brief moments […]
Using An ABC Journal
Using an ABC Journal in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) In counselling, one of the simplest yet most powerful tools you may be introduced to is an ABC journal. This approach, often used alongside Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), can help you better understand how your thoughts, feelings, and actions interact in everyday life. An ABC journal […]
Seven Stages of Counselling: What to Expect
Starting counselling can feel like a big step. Many people are unsure what will actually happen in sessions or how the process works. While every person’s journey is unique, counselling often moves through several broad stages that help create a safe, supportive and meaningful process for change. In approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), […]
Who’s Driving Your Bus?
Who’s Driving Your Bus? – An ACT Metaphor for Life In Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), we often use simple metaphors to explain big ideas. One of the most helpful is the Driver of the Bus metaphor. Imagine your life is like a bus journey. You are the driver. The bus is heading in the direction of what matters […]