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 […]
Category: Counselling
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 […]
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 […]
“Shouldn’t I Be Over Grief by Now?”
“Shouldn’t I Be Over Grief by Now?” – Understanding the Timeline of Healing Grief is one of the most common – and yet most misunderstood – human experiences. Many people who come to counselling ask some version of the question, “Shouldn’t I be over this by now?” If you’ve found yourself wondering the same thing, you are […]
How Much Will Counselling Cost?
How Much Will Counselling Cost, and Can I Get Medicare or Insurance Rebates? If you’re thinking about starting counselling, one of the first questions you might ask is: “How much will it cost?” This is a really common and very important question. Counselling is an investment in your mental wellbeing, so it makes sense to understand what […]
Understanding Functional Analysis
Understanding Functional Analysis and Its Role in ACT Therapy When you begin counselling, you might hear your therapist use terms that sound a bit technical at first. One of these is functional analysis. Don’t worry – it’s not as complicated as it sounds. In fact, it’s one of the most practical and helpful tools we have […]
What to Do If You’re Having Suicidal Thoughts
If you’ve found yourself having suicidal thoughts, the first and most important thing to know is this: you don’t have to go through this alone. Suicidal thoughts can feel overwhelming and isolating, but reaching out for support can make a huge difference. Take These Steps Right Away 1. Reach out for immediate help 2. Talk to […]