Stress is a word we hear often, and usually not in a positive light. It’s commonly linked to burnout, anxiety, and overwhelm. But not all stress is bad. Some stress can be helpful, even healthy. The key is understanding the difference between good stress and bad stress, and how each affects us physically, emotionally, and […]
Author: John Belchamber
The Importance and Benefits of Psychological Safety at Work
Psychological safety at work is more than just a buzzword—it’s a vital foundation for a healthy, productive, and innovative workplace. Coined by Harvard professor Amy Edmondson, psychological safety refers to a shared belief that it’s safe to take interpersonal risks, like speaking up with ideas, admitting mistakes, or asking for help, without fear of humiliation […]
What Should I Expect in My First Therapy Session?
Starting therapy can feel like a big step—exciting for some, nerve-wracking for others. If you’re considering counselling but feel unsure about what to expect in your first session, you’re not alone. Many people have questions about the process, from what will be discussed to how they’ll feel afterward. Here’s a breakdown of what typically happens […]
How Can Couples Therapy Help Relationships?
Every relationship has its ups and downs. Whether you’re navigating a rough patch, feeling emotionally distant, or just want to strengthen your bond, couples therapy can offer a safe and supportive space to reconnect. But how exactly does it work—and what can it really do for your relationship? 1. Improved Communication At the heart of many […]
Unhooking from Unwanted Thoughts and Feelings
Unhooking from Unwanted Thoughts and Feelings: An Introduction to Defusion in ACT Our minds are constantly buzzing with thoughts—some helpful, some neutral, and others that can pull us into a cycle of worry, self-criticism, or distress. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) offers a unique approach to dealing with difficult thoughts and emotions, one of which […]
Stop Saying “But” – Use “And” Instead
Stop Saying “But” – Use “And” Instead: A Simple Shift for Better Communication Have you ever noticed how the word “but” can shut down a conversation, create defensiveness, or even diminish the power of your own words? While it may seem like a harmless conjunction, “but” often acts as a roadblock in communication. On the […]
Self-Actualisation: A Path to Personal Growth
Carl Rogers’ Theory of Self-Actualisation: A Path to Personal Growth Carl Rogers, a pioneering figure in humanistic psychology, believed that every person has an innate drive towards self-actualisation—the process of realising one’s full potential. Unlike Abraham Maslow’s hierarchical approach to self-actualisation, Rogers viewed it as a continuous journey rather than a final destination. According to […]
Australian Teacher Wellbeing
Australian Teacher Wellbeing – Research into the mental wellbeing of Australian teachers highlights significant challenges related to stress, burnout, and the need for systemic support. Prevalence of Stress and Burnout: A study conducted over 18 months prior to the COVID-19 pandemic surveyed 749 Australian teachers, revealing high levels of work-related stress and burnout. Factors contributing […]
Book Review: The War for Kindness
Book Review: In The War for Kindness: Building Empathy in a Fractured World, Stanford psychologist Jamil Zaki explores a timely and urgent question: can we cultivate empathy in a world increasingly divided by social, political, and ideological differences? Through a compelling blend of scientific research, real-world stories, and personal reflections, Zaki makes a powerful case that […]
Introducing the Educator Support Program (ESP)
ESP: Supporting Those Who Shape the Future At Sunny Coast Counselling, we know that teaching is more than just a job, it’s a calling. But with increasing workloads, emotional demands, and ever-changing educational expectations, many teachers find themselves struggling to balance their own well-being with their professional responsibilities. That’s why we’re excited to launch our […]