What Is Counselling? A Guide to Therapy

Life can be unpredictable, messy, and overwhelming. Whether you’re facing a major life transition, struggling with grief, adjusting to a new season of life, or simply feeling unsure of your next step, counselling can help. It offers a safe and supportive space to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences—free from judgment and full of compassion.

But what is counselling, really?

Counselling is a professional, collaborative relationship where a trained counsellor helps you work through emotional, psychological, or behavioural challenges. It’s a type of counselling that focuses on improving your mental health and wellbeing by offering non-judgmental support, insight, and practical tools.

You don’t have to be in crisis to benefit. Many people seek professional counselling for clarity, connection, and healing—even if they can’t quite name what they’re feeling yet.

What Is Counselling?

Counselling is a structured conversation between you and a health professional trained to support emotional and psychological wellbeing. It is often person centred, meaning you guide the conversation at your pace, focusing on what matters most to you.

A trained counsellor helps you reflect, recognise patterns, and develop coping strategies using evidence basedapproaches. Unlike advice from friends or family, counselling offers confidential support from someone who is bound by a professional code of ethics, such as those outlined by the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA) and the Australian Counselling Association (ACA).

What Happens in a Counselling Session?

Each counselling session is unique. Some sessions might involve talking through a recent experience; others might focus on long-term patterns, thought processes, or relationship dynamics. Your counsellor may guide you with questions, reflection prompts, or problem solving tools.

You should feel comfortable to share openly, knowing your privacy is protected. Sessions are confidential and non-judgmental. Many clients say that simply having someone listen deeply without trying to "fix" them is healing in itself.

Sessions can take place in person, online, or over the phone—whatever counselling service works best for your situation.

Who Is Counselling For?

Counselling is for everyone. You don’t need to have a diagnosed mental health condition or be in crisis to seek support. Some common reasons people seek therapy include:

• Grief and loss

• Life transitions like divorce, retirement, or relocation

• Relationship challenges

• Parenting and family pressures

• Anxiety, depression, or burnout

• Young people navigating identity, school, or family stress

• Coping with change or uncertainty

• Wanting to grow, heal, or feel more confident

Whether you're looking to understand yourself better or process a painful experience, counselling provides space to be seen and heard.

Types of Counselling Available

There are many types of counselling available to suit your needs. Counsellors are trained for individual counselling in many different types of modalities and may specialise in specific aeras including :

• Individual counselling for personal issues, trauma, anxiety, or self-development

• Grief counselling to navigate loss and mourning

• Relationship or couples counselling to improve communication and connection

• Family counselling for navigating dynamics between parents and children

• Counselling for young people to support mental and emotional development

• Workplace or career counselling to handle burnout or transitions

Each approach may differ but often there is overlap, and all are grounded in empathy, respect, and professional care.

Counselling vs Psychology vs Coaching

It’s helpful to understand the difference between a counsellor, psychologist, and coach:

• A counsellor focuses on emotional support, personal development, and coping strategies.

• A psychologist often works with diagnosed mental health conditions using therapeutic techniques and may provide assessments.

• A coach helps you set and achieve specific goals and is typically more performance- or future-oriented.

Counselling is ideal when you need emotional support and time to reflect, grow, and heal in a compassionate space.

Why People Avoid Counselling (And Why It’s Worth It Anyway)

It’s normal to feel hesitant about seeking help. Common concerns include:

• "It means I’m weak."

• "I should be able to handle this myself."

• "Talking won’t change anything."

• "It's hard to talk about my feelings with someone."

But the truth is: asking for help is a sign of strength. Counselling offers support that friends and family often can’t provide. It’s a commitment to your mental health and wellbeing.

Benefits of Counselling

The benefits of counselling are broad and personal. Some of the most common include:

• Emotional relief and clarity

• Healthier relationships

• Stronger self-esteem

• Better communication

• Tools for managing anxiety or low mood

• Support in grieving and healing

• Greater awareness and self-understanding

Over time, many people find that counselling helps them live more authentically and purposefully.

Australian Counselling Standards and Supports

In Australia, professional counselling is regulated through national associations like the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA) and the Australian Counselling Association (ACA). These organisations ensure counsellors follow a strict code of ethics and meet ongoing professional development requirements.

When looking to find a counsellor, always check that they are registered with one of these bodies. This ensures they offer evidence based, ethical, and professional care.

There are also many mental health supports available through public and private services. Counselling may be accessed through private practice, community organisations, or referral from a GP.

How to Find a Counsellor That Fits

Finding the right counsellor is a bit like finding the right pair of shoes. Comfort matters. Start by asking:

• Do they specialise in what I’m going through?

• Are they registered with PACFA or ACA?

• Does their approach align with my values?

• Do I feel comfortable talking to them?

Remember, it’s okay to try a few sessions with someone and then switch if it’s not the right fit. You deserve support that feels safe and affirming.

Final Thoughts

Counselling isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about creating a space for your own answers to emerge. It offers you the chance to process your story, reconnect with yourself, and move forward with greater clarity.

If you've ever wondered, "What is counselling?" or felt unsure whether it was right for you, know that it’s a deeply human experience—one that honours your capacity to heal and grow.

Whether you're navigating loss, feeling stuck, or simply wanting space to think and feel, counselling is here to walk with you. Reach out when you're ready. You don’t have to carry it all alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is counselling only for serious mental health problems?

No. Counselling supports both people experiencing mental health conditions and those facing life changes, grief, relationship issues, or emotional overwhelm.

Do I need a referral to see a counsellor?

Not always. You can often self-refer and contact a counsellor directly, especially in private practice. Just ensure they are registered with a recognised body like PACFA or ACA.

Is counselling in Australia confidential?

Yes. Australian counselling professionals are required to follow a code of ethics that includes confidentiality. There are rare exceptions, such as risk of harm to self or others.

How many sessions will I need?

That depends on your goals and preferences. Some people benefit from just a few sessions, while others prefer ongoing support over time.

Is online counselling effective?

Yes. Many people find online counselling just as effective as in-person support. What matters most is that you feel comfortable with the counsellor and process.

Need support? I’m here to help. Let’s take the next step together.