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 […]
Category: Counselling
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 […]
Which Counselling Format Is Right for You?
Face-to-Face, Online or Telephone Counselling: Which Is Right for You? When starting counselling, one of the first choices you’ll make is how you’d like to attend your sessions. Sunny Coast Counselling offer counselling sessions via face-to-face, online (via video), or over the phone. Each option has its own benefits and challenges, and the “right” choice depends on […]
Could Someone You Love Benefit from Counselling?
It can be hard to know when to suggest counselling to someone you care about. You might notice they seem different lately — more withdrawn, stressed, or unhappy — and wonder if extra support could help. Counselling isn’t only for people in crisis. It can help anyone who feels overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to […]
The Gottman Golden Ratio: Why It Matters for Healthy Relationships
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 […]
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. […]