You might not be in crisis, but something is off — and that’s exactly when counselling can help.

In Perth, many people wait until they feel completely overwhelmed before seeking support. The truth is, counselling is just as valuable for everyday challenges as it is for major life events. Recognising the signs early can make recovery faster and prevent problems from growing.

Common Signs You Might Benefit from Counselling

Here are some clear indicators that it might be time to speak with a professional:

1. You’re stuck in the same loop of thoughts or worries

If you keep replaying the same scenario in your head, struggling to see it from a different angle, counselling can help break the cycle. Talking it through with someone objective often reveals solutions you can’t see alone.

2. Relationships feel harder than usual

You might notice more arguments with your partner, more distance from friends, or feeling unheard at work. Communication breakdowns often improve once you have tools to express yourself clearly and listen effectively.

3. Changes in sleep, appetite, or motivation

You might be sleeping too much or not enough, eating less or more, or feeling unable to get started on basic daily tasks. These changes can be early signs of stress, anxiety, or depression.

4. Withdrawing from people and activities you enjoy

If you’ve stopped doing the things that once made you happy, it can be a sign you’re struggling emotionally. Counselling can help you reconnect with those parts of life.

5. Stress is showing up physically

Headaches, muscle tension, stomach issues, and other physical symptoms can be linked to emotional stress. A counsellor can help you address the root cause, not just the symptoms.

Why People Often Wait Too Long

Many people in Perth (and across Australia) delay counselling for months or even years. Common reasons include:

• Thinking they should be able to “fix it” themselves
• Worrying about what others might think
• Believing the issue isn’t “serious enough”
• Not knowing where to find help

Unfortunately, waiting often means the problem gets bigger, relationships become strained, and recovery takes longer.

What to Expect in Your First Counselling Session

If you’ve never been to counselling before, you might imagine sitting in a quiet room with someone nodding as you talk. While listening is part of it, your counsellor’s role is much more active.

In your first session, you can expect:

• A warm welcome and a chance to share what’s been going on
• Questions to help your counsellor understand your experiences and goals
• A discussion about what you’d like to work on together
• Clear information about confidentiality and how sessions work

You don’t have to prepare a “script” — just come as you are. Your counsellor will guide the conversation and help you feel comfortable.

(For more on what to expect, see our How It Works page.)

Counselling Is for Everyday Life, Not Just Crisis

Some people think counselling is only for major trauma or mental illness. In reality, it’s also for:

• Improving communication in relationships
• Managing work stress or burnout
• Coping with life transitions (moving house, new job, separation)
• Building confidence and self-esteem
• Developing healthier coping strategies

By seeking help early, you’re giving yourself the chance to recover faster and with less disruption to your life.

Local Support in Perth and Surrounding Areas

At Vision Counselling, we provide in-person sessions at convenient locations across Perth — including Scarborough, Baldivis, and our new Perth CBD office — as well as secure online counselling for clients anywhere in Australia.

Whether you’re walking from Perth Train Station to our Beaufort Street location or connecting from the comfort of your home, we’ll meet you where you are. Our counsellors use evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, tailored to your needs.

If you’ve been wondering whether counselling might help, that’s often a sign you’re ready to start.
Don’t wait for things to get worse — take the first step today.

📅 Book an appointment with a Perth counsellor now — in person or online.

References

1. Australian Psychological Society. Signs you might benefit from seeing a psychologist. Retrieved from: https://psychology.org.au
2. Beyond Blue. Signs it’s time to get help. Retrieved from: https://www.beyondblue.org.au
3. Black Dog Institute. When to seek professional help. Retrieved from: https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au

Empathy vs. Sympathy: Understanding the Difference

Before we explore why empathy works better, let’s clarify the terms. Sympathy and empathy are often mentioned together, but they are not the same. Sympathy usually means feeling sorry for someone’s situation – it’s a bit like standing at the edge of a dark hole where your friend is stuck and calling down, “That looks really rough. I’m sorry you’re down there.” You care that they’re hurt, but you maintain a distance. In contrast, empathy is feeling with the person, as if you climb down into that hole with them, look them in the eye and say, “I’m here with you. I understand something of what you feel.” Empathy is about genuinely understanding and sharing another person’s feelings, fostering a much deeper sense of connection and support. Sympathy, while it comes from kindness, often involves pity – for example, feeling bad for someone – without truly understanding the person’s experience.

Renowned research professor Brené Brown captures it well: “Empathy fuels connection. Sympathy drives disconnection.” In other words, empathy brings people together, making someone feel heard and included, whereas sympathy (especially if it’s just a “poor you” sentiment) can unintentionally create an uneven dynamic – one person up on the ladder offering pity, and the other still down in their pain (twentyonetoys.com). Where sympathy might create a subtle wall (“I feel for you, but I can’t relate”), empathy is a bridge (“I feel with you and I’m here with you”). This difference is huge when it comes to how supported a person feels.

To illustrate, imagine you tell two different friends that you’ve just lost your job. Friend A responds with sympathy: “Oh no, that’s awful. I’m sorry you’re going through this.” It’s a kind sentiment, but you might not feel much better – you might even feel a bit of pity from them. Friend B responds with empathy: “I can only imagine how stressful and upsetting that must be for you. Losing a job is really tough. Do you want to talk about what happened?” In Friend B’s response, they’re acknowledging your specific feelings and opening the door to listen. They’re not trying to fix it or make it go away. They’re just with you in that moment. That feeling – that you’re not alone with your pain – is the heart of empathy.

Why Empathy is More Effective for Emotional Support

When it comes to emotional support and healing, empathy has a profound impact. The reason is simple: empathy creates trust and connection in a way that sympathy doesn’t. An empathetic response tells the person “your feelings matter, and I’m here with you,” which helps someone feel validated and understood. A sympathetic response, despite being caring, might inadvertently send the message “your situation is pitiful,” which can make a person feel isolated or belittled. Empathy is more effective than sympathy because it engenders real trust between people and makes the person in pain feel truly heard and supported. Sympathy keeps an emotional distance (often just expressing sorrow for someone), whereas empathy bridges the gap by putting yourself in the other’s shoes.

Psychologically, feeling understood has a powerful healing effect. One therapeutic insight is that “rarely can a response make something better; what makes something better is connection.” When we’re suffering, we usually aren’t looking for someone to solve our problem with a clever answer – we’re looking for someone who acknowledges our pain and makes us feel less alone in it (twentyonetoys.com). Empathy provides that sense of connection. It says, “I’m with you and I understand,” which often lightens the emotional burden. Sympathy, on the other hand, might just say, “I feel bad for you,” which doesn’t lighten the load in the same way, and can even unintentionally make someone feel more alone.

Consider a counselling scenario: if a client shares, “I’ve been feeling really depressed and nothing seems to help,” a sympathetic reply might be, “I’m so sorry you feel that way. That’s really sad.” There’s kindness in that, but it might stop there. An empathetic reply from a counsellor could be, “That sounds incredibly hard. You’ve been carrying a lot of pain and it makes sense that you feel hopeless right now.” This response not only shows sorrow that the client is hurting, but also reflects understanding of the client’s emotions and the reality of their struggle. The client is more likely to feel safe and understood with the second response. In fact, empathy’s power is backed by research: studies have shown that empathy can lead to better outcomes because people are more likely to engage and trust when they feel understood. For example, in healthcare settings, empathy from providers improves patient satisfaction and even leads to better adherence to treatment – when people feel heard and understood, they’re more likely to follow through on care recommendations. People have reported that empathy and compassion from their caregiver are as important as technical expertise; many would even switch doctors if they felt their provider didn’t truly care. That’s how much being understood matters.

Empathy validates what someone is feeling. One big reason it’s more effective than sympathy is that validation itself can be healing. When a person says, “I feel hurt,” and the response they get is essentially “I hear you – you have every right to feel that way,” a weight lifts off their shoulders. They no longer have to prove their pain or feel guilty for it. Sympathy might validate the situation (“It’s bad that this happened to you”), but empathy validates the person’s emotions (“It’s understandable you feel this hurt”). That validation helps someone move forward through their feelings rather than staying stuck in feeling alone with them.

Moreover, empathy builds a bond of trust. When you respond with empathy, you’re showing vulnerability too – you’re stepping into their world for a moment. Dr. Brené Brown notes, “Empathy is a choice, and it’s a vulnerable one,” because it requires connecting with something in yourself that knows that feeling (twentyonetoys.com). It might be uncomfortable in the moment (feeling a bit of someone else’s pain isn’t easy), but it humanizes the interaction. The person hurting senses that you’re not just looking at them from afar; you’re right there with them. This trust is critical in any supportive relationship, be it between friends, family members, or a therapist and client.

Sympathy vs. Empathy at a Glance

• Sympathy: “I feel sorry for you.” It often implies a degree of separation – you’re looking at someone’s situation from outside. Sympathy can sometimes unintentionally come across as pity. For example, saying “Poor you, this is so terrible” might actually make a person feel worse, as though you see them as helpless. Sympathy tends to offer a momentary comfort (“I care about you”) but then often falls silent, unsure what to do next. It does not necessarily validate the specific emotions the person is experiencing.
• Empathy: “I feel with you.” It’s the act of deeply understanding and sharing the other person’s feelings as if you were in their position (positivepsychology.com). Empathy often involves active listening and reflecting. For example: “I can hear how painful this is for you, and I’ve been through something similar – it really hurts, doesn’t it?” This kind of response normalizes and acknowledges the person’s feelings. Empathy might not have a solution to offer, but it offers companionship in pain, which often matters more than solutions. As one leadership coaching resource succinctly puts it, empathy creates real connection, whereas sympathy may only create a fleeting, surface-level interaction (gowanhealth.com).

In short, empathy is effective because it’s about connection. Sympathy, despite coming from kindness, can inadvertently create a sense of disconnection. Feeling “connected” to someone when you’re in pain – even just knowing that “someone understands me” – can be incredibly powerful. It’s often the first step toward healing or finding hope.

The Role of Empathy in Counselling and Healing

Empathy isn’t just a buzzword in counselling – it’s truly one of the cornerstones of effective therapy. In fact, famous psychologist Carl Rogers (the founder of person-centered therapy) made empathic understanding one of the core conditions for any therapeutic change to occur. According to Rogers, a therapist’s ability to accurately sense and understand the client’s feelings (and to communicate that understanding) is essential for the client to feel safe and start growing. Modern research backs this up: a large meta-analysis of 82 studies (involving over 6,000 clients) found that a therapist’s empathy was a significant predictor of positive therapy outcomes. In plain terms, the more empathetic the therapist was perceived to be, the more likely the client improved. Empathy helps form a strong therapeutic alliance – basically a sense of “we’re in this together” – which is known to be one of the best predictors of therapy success.

At Vision Counselling, our counsellors understand that being genuinely empathetic is critical. A client in individual counselling sessions should feel that their counsellor is fully present, actively listening, and truly striving to understand their perspective. If you’re seeking support for your mental health in Perth (or anywhere), you’ll likely want a therapist who doesn’t just dole out advice or say they’re sorry you’re struggling, but someone who takes the time to understand what you’re feeling. That’s exactly what empathy in counselling entails – the therapist steps into your world for a moment to feel what it’s like for you, and communicates that understanding back to you. Many clients describe feeling a huge sense of relief when they encounter an empathetic listener. “Finally, someone understands me!” is a thought that in itself can start the healing process. On the flip side, if a counsellor were only sympathetic – “Oh, that sounds so bad, I’m sorry” – and then perhaps changes the subject or offers a quick fix, the client might feel a lack of depth or understanding, and could shut down. Empathy encourages the client to open up without fear of judgment, because they sense the counsellor is with them, not judging from outside.

It’s also worth noting that empathy in counselling is a skill. Therapists are trained in techniques like active listening, reflecting feelings, and asking open-ended questions – all tools that convey empathy. A good counsellor will validate your feelings (even if those feelings are painful or complicated) and make you feel heard. This doesn’t mean they’ll always say “me too” to everything – in fact, it’s not about the counsellor’s experiences at all. It’s about the counsellor showing authentic care and understanding for your experience. For example, if you’re crying over a recent breakup, an empathetic counsellor might quietly say, “I can see how deeply this is hurting you. Losing someone you love is incredibly painful.” In that simple statement, they’re acknowledging your pain without trying to rush you out of it or plaster it over with a “you’ll be fine”. And that can make you feel truly supported.

Beyond Counselling: Empathy in Everyday Life and Relationships

Empathy isn’t only crucial in therapy – it’s the glue of human relationships in general. We all yearn to be understood by the people we care about. Whether it’s between spouses, friends, parents and children, or even among colleagues, empathy can dramatically improve communication and trust. Cultivating empathy over sympathy enhances relationships by encouraging us to really listen and engage emotionally with others, leading to more meaningful support and closeness (positivepsychology.com). In contrast, constant sympathy without true understanding can sometimes create distance. Think of a time when you were upset and a friend said something like, “I’m sorry, that’s tough,” but then went on to compare it to their own unrelated problem or just went silent. You probably didn’t feel much better. Now think of a time when someone said, “I hear you – that does sound really hard. Is there anything you need?” or even just “I’m here with you.” That second kind of response likely made you feel more cared for and less alone. That’s the everyday power of empathy.

Empathy also helps defuse conflicts and misunderstandings. If two people are arguing, a sympathetic approach might be to feel bad that the other is upset but still stick firmly to your point of view. An empathetic approach would be actively trying to understand the other person’s feelings and perspective, even if you don’t initially agree. Often just showing you understand where the other is coming from can de-escalate anger. For example, “I get that you’re hurt because it seems like I didn’t show up when you needed me. I think I would feel that way too if I were in your shoes.” This kind of statement can make the other person feel heard, and in turn they may become more open to understanding your side. In relationships, this “I understand you” moment is gold – it builds emotional intimacy and mutual trust.

In workplaces, leaders and team members who practice empathy create a more supportive and positive environment. An empathetic leader will listen to an employee’s concerns and try to feel what they feel, rather than just saying “That’s company policy, sorry you don’t like it.” By acknowledging emotions and showing understanding, leaders can boost morale and loyalty. In fact, empathy in leadership has been shown to improve outcomes: teams function better and people report higher job satisfaction when they believe their manager actually understands and cares about their feelings. Especially after the challenges of recent years, compassionate leadership (grounded in empathy) has been highlighted as key to workplace well-being.

It’s important to mention compassion here too. Empathy and compassion are closely related. If empathy is feeling with someone, compassion is taking that empathy one step further – it’s the desire to help alleviate the other’s suffering. You might think of compassion as “empathy in action.” For example, if you deeply empathize with a friend’s struggle with illness, compassion might move you to bring them a meal or help with their errands. In counselling terms, a therapist’s empathy might lead them to take compassionate actions like connecting the client with additional resources or gently challenging the client to practice self-care. Some experts note that staying solely in empathy (immersed in someone else’s pain) for too long can lead to empathy fatigue, so moving to compassionate action can actually be healthier for the supporter (gowanhealth.com). But that action has to be appropriate – guided by truly understanding what the person feels and needs. In any case, without empathy, compassion can’t really occur – you have to understand someone’s pain first. So empathy is the necessary ingredient that comes before meaningful help or solutions.

How to Practice Empathy (Instead of Sympathy)

Empathy is a natural human ability, but it’s also a skill that we can consciously develop. If you’re not sure how to respond empathetically, here are some practical tips to cultivate empathy in your interactions (these are techniques even counsellors use, and they can help anyone):

• Listen to Understand, Not to Reply: When someone is sharing their feelings or a problem, resist the urge to immediately think of solutions or what you’ll say next. Active listening is key. Pay attention to their words, tone, and body language. Sometimes just staying quiet and truly listening is the most empathetic thing you can do. Avoid interrupting or trying to interject your own stories unless it’s truly to say “I’ve been there and I understand”. Often, a person who is hurting isn’t asking you to fix anything – they just need to feel heard. Show you’re listening by nodding or saying “I get what you’re saying” or “I’m following you.”
• Validate Their Feelings: Validation means letting the person know that their feelings make sense. You don’t have to agree with why they feel that way, but you can certainly acknowledge that they feel that way. Say things like, “I can see why you’d feel upset given what happened,” or “It’s completely understandable that you’re angry – anyone would be in your situation.” Phrases that recognize the emotion – “that sounds terrifying,” “you seem really hurt,” “I can hear how disappointed you are” – show empathy. Avoid jumping into judging their feelings as right or wrong. And try not to use the dreaded “at least” – as in “at least it’s not as bad as…” or “at least now you know…”. Those phrases, while intended to find a silver lining, usually minimize the person’s pain and shut down their chance to feel understood. Empathy sometimes means sitting with the discomfort of the situation without trying to put a silver lining on it.
• Put Yourself in Their Shoes (Perspective-Taking): This classic advice holds true – imagine how you would feel if the same thing were happening to you. This requires humility and sometimes creativity. Maybe you haven’t lost a job like your friend did, but perhaps you can remember what it felt like to face a major disappointment or fear about the future. Tap into that. Dr. Brené Brown outlines this as one of the key components of empathy: try to feel with the person by recalling your own moments of hurt, so you can relate. Be careful not to make it about you though – you’re using your experience only to understand theirs, not to hijack the conversation. For instance, instead of, “Oh, I went through something similar and let me tell you all about it,” an empathetic use of your perspective might be, “I remember feeling so lonely when I went through [XYZ]; I wonder if you’re feeling some of that loneliness too?” This way, you use your experience only to connect and then bring the focus back to them.
• Stay Out of Judgment: Empathy can only occur when we suspend judgment about the person’s situation or choices. If a friend confides in you about something that you have opinions on, hold those opinions back in that moment. For example, if they made a mistake that led to their problem, resist saying anything like “Well, maybe you shouldn’t have done that.” Empathy is not about evaluating the person’s actions; it’s about acknowledging their feelings. You can gently help them reflect or problem-solve later if needed, but the empathetic response comes first. Create a safe, non-judgmental space for them to express themselves.
• Communicate Your Understanding: After listening and observing, reflect back what you’ve heard in your own words. This shows the person that not only did you listen, you truly get the essence of what they shared. You might say, “It sounds like you feel betrayed and hurt because your friend didn’t show up when you needed support. That must have been so painful for you.” When you mirror their feelings like this, it’s incredibly validating. They know their message landed with someone. Also, if you get it slightly wrong, that gives them a chance to clarify (“No, it’s not betrayal I feel, it’s more disappointment”). Either way, you’re working toward understanding. This step is essentially empathic communication – it’s not just silently understanding, but actively showing the other person that you do.

These practices take conscious effort, but they can transform interactions. If you’re used to offering sympathy, it might feel a bit awkward at first to respond in these more personal, vulnerable ways. However, the result is often a much stronger sense of connection. People who receive empathy from you will feel more comfortable around you and more confident that you truly care about them. And remember, empathy is a skill you get better at with practice. The more you make that choice to be empathetic, the more natural it will become.

In summary, empathy is like a warm hug for the heart, while sympathy is a polite pat on the back. Both come from a caring place, but empathy reaches deeper into what someone is actually feeling. By prioritizing empathy, we create space for genuine human connection and healing. If you’re going through a hard time, you might find that talking to someone who is empathetic – whether a close friend or a professional – feels far more reassuring than talking to someone who is merely sympathetic. Empathy doesn’t try to fix you or throw silver linings at your problems; it sits with you in your reality and says, “I’m here.” And often, that is exactly what we need to begin healing.

If you’re a client seeking therapy and you’re reading this, know that you deserve empathy. At Vision Counselling, we believe in the power of truly listening and understanding your story. Our team in Perth is dedicated to providing a compassionate, empathetic counselling environment where you’ll never feel like just a number or a case – you’ll feel heard, respected, and cared for.

Whether it’s through individual counselling sessions or any of our services, our focus is on walking alongside you with empathy as you navigate life’s challenges. If you’re ready to experience the difference that empathy can make, you can reach out and find a therapist who truly “gets it.” Remember, you’re not alone, and with the right support, things can get better. Empathy might just be the first step on that journey to feeling understood and moving toward healing.

Rapport is the sense of trust, connection, and comfort that develops between you and your counsellor. It’s the foundation that allows you to feel safe enough to share your story and work through the challenges that brought you to counselling.

At Vision Counselling, we see clients across Perth City, Scarborough, Baldivis and surrounding suburbs, and we understand that taking the first step can feel daunting. Here’s how you can help build strong rapport in your counselling sessions and why it matters.

Why Rapport Matters in Counselling

Counselling isn’t just about strategies or techniques – it’s about connection. Research consistently shows that the relationship between a client and counsellor is one of the strongest predictors of positive outcomes in therapy. When you feel heard and understood, it’s easier to open up and work through difficult emotions.

In a supportive counselling relationship, you’re more likely to:

• Share openly and honestly
• Feel validated and understood
• Gain clarity and perspective
• Build confidence to make changes

Tips for Building Rapport With Your Counsellor

1. Be yourself, even if it feels awkward at first
It’s normal to feel unsure in your first session. Try to be as honest and open as you can – even if that means admitting you’re nervous. Your counsellor understands that this is part of the process and will help you feel more comfortable as you go.

2. Share your goals and expectations
Let your counsellor know what you hope to get out of therapy. Are you looking for practical coping strategies? Space to explore emotions? Clear direction? Being upfront can help your counsellor tailor the sessions to your needs.

3. Ask questions
You are allowed to ask questions about how counselling works, your counsellor’s approach, or anything else you’re unsure about. Feeling informed can help you feel more in control of the process.

4. Give feedback
If something isn’t working for you – maybe you feel the pace is too fast or you’re not connecting with a particular technique – say so. Good counsellors welcome feedback and adjust their approach to suit your needs.

5. Be patient with the process
Rapport doesn’t always happen instantly. For some people it develops quickly, while for others it takes a few sessions to build trust. This is completely normal.

What Your Counsellor Will Do to Build Rapport

At Vision Counselling, our team is trained to create a warm, professional and non-judgemental environment. Here’s what you can expect from us:

• We’ll listen carefully without rushing or interrupting
• We’ll respect your pace and comfort levels
• We’ll explain the process clearly so you know what to expect
• We’ll offer empathy and understanding, even when topics are difficult

Our goal is to make sure you feel supported and safe to explore your thoughts and emotions, no matter what you’re going through.

Finding the Right Counsellor for You

Sometimes rapport simply doesn’t click with a particular counsellor – and that’s okay. Everyone is different, and it’s important to find someone you feel comfortable with. If you’re unsure after a few sessions, it’s worth discussing your feelings with your counsellor or trying a different therapist.

Vision Counselling has counsellors available across Perth City, Scarborough, and Baldivis, and we also offer online counselling sessions for clients across Western Australia. This flexibility means you can choose the location or format that feels right for you.

Ready to Book Your First Session?

Taking the first step towards counselling is a brave decision, and building rapport with your counsellor is a key part of making that step worthwhile.

If you’re ready to get started, you can book an appointment online today. Whether you prefer to visit us in Perth City, Scarborough, or Baldivis, or connect via telehealth from anywhere in WA, our friendly team is here to support you.

Book Now and take the first step towards a stronger sense of connection and wellbeing.

The Friendship Bench: A Global Model for Accessible Support

Originating in Zimbabwe in 2006, the Friendship Bench was developed by Professor Dixon Chibanda to provide support for common mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. It uses a simple concept: trained lay counsellors (often older women known as “community grandmothers”) offer problem-solving therapy on park benches in local areas.

The program has seen significant success. A 2016 study published in JAMA found that individuals receiving therapy through the Friendship Bench had a 55% greater chance of recovery from depression than those receiving standard care (Chibanda et al., 2016).

Recently, the model has been adapted for use in the UK, including a pilot program in Sussex, which places “benches” in indoor spaces like libraries, staffed by trained lay counsellors. As of 2025, early findings show strong reductions in depression, anxiety, and social isolation. (The Guardian, 2025).

The Green String Network and the Applied Community Mental Health Certification

The Green String Network has introduced the Applied Community Mental Health Certification, aimed at building local capacity through training in trauma-informed, culturally appropriate mental health care. This program empowers community leaders, educators, and volunteers to become frontline mental health supporters.

By embedding skills within the community, the certification promotes long-term sustainability and community resilience. It aligns with global movements advocating for decentralised, community-led mental health care, particularly in post-conflict or under-resourced settings.

Why Community-Based Mental Health Support Matters

✅ It’s Accessible

Many individuals, especially in rural or marginalised areas, face barriers such as long wait times, cost, or stigma. Community-based programs offer free or low-cost support, often without the need for formal diagnoses.

✅ It’s Culturally Sensitive

When support is offered by someone from the same cultural or local background, trust is more easily built, and stigma around seeking help is often reduced.

✅ It Promotes Early Intervention

These programs often detect distress before it becomes a crisis, creating natural entry points into care for those who may never seek traditional services.

✅ It Builds Community Resilience

Training everyday people to provide mental health first aid helps create a culture of care, where mental health is treated as part of overall wellbeing.

The Role of Services Like Vision Counselling

At Vision Counselling, we recognise the importance of combining professional mental health care with community-led initiatives. For over a decade, we have proudly delivered the Stirling Support Program — a free counselling service for residents in the City of Stirling, focused on supporting mental health, family wellbeing, and social connection.

Our work continues to complement broader community-based efforts through:

• Individual counselling for anxiety, depression, and trauma
• Relationship counselling for couples and families
• NDIS counselling and support
• Community outreach and partnerships with local government, community organisations, and support agencies

If you or your organisation would like to collaborate on a community-based mental health initiative in Perth or WA, we’d love to connect. Together, we can continue building safe, accessible, and empowering mental health support systems for all.

References

• Chibanda, D. et al. (2016). Effect of a Primary Care–Based Psychological Intervention on Symptoms of Common Mental Disorders in Zimbabwe. JAMA. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2582235
• The Guardian (2025). Can a Park Bench Change Someone’s Life?. https://www.theguardian.com/society/2025/apr/08/friendship-benches-mental-health-support-sussex
• Green String Network. (2025). Applied Community Mental Health Certification. https://www.green-string.org/programs/applied-community-mental-health
• Friendship Bench Zimbabwe. https://www.friendshipbenchzimbabwe.org

What is Emotional Resilience?

Emotional resilience is the capacity to adapt to stress, adversity, and life’s challenges while remaining emotionally stable. It allows individuals to bounce back from setbacks, cope with difficulties, and thrive in the face of adversity.

Characteristics of Emotionally Resilient People:

• Strong self-awareness and emotional regulation
• Optimistic outlook
• Adaptability to change
• Effective problem-solving skills
• Supportive relationships

Learn how to enhance self-awareness through our Mindfulness in Therapy guide.

Why is Emotional Resilience Important?

Building emotional resilience can significantly improve your mental health and overall well-being. According to the American Psychological Association, resilient individuals experience lower levels of stress and are less likely to develop anxiety or depression.

Benefits of Emotional Resilience:

1. Better Stress Management: Resilient individuals are more equipped to handle everyday stressors.
2. Improved Relationships: Emotional resilience helps manage conflicts and build stronger connections.
3. Greater Work-Life Balance: Resilient people are better able to juggle professional and personal responsibilities.
4. Enhanced Mental Health: Resilience reduces the risk of mental health issues and fosters emotional stability.

Studies show that individuals who actively work on resilience-building techniques are 60% more likely to report higher life satisfaction (National Institutes of Health).

Signs You May Need to Strengthen Your Resilience

• You feel overwhelmed by minor setbacks.
• You struggle to recover from stress or disappointment.
• You often feel emotionally drained or stuck.
• You avoid challenges due to fear of failure.

If these resonate with you, don’t worry—emotional resilience is a skill you can develop with time and practice.

Explore our Anxiety Counselling Services for additional support.

Tips to Build Emotional Resilience

1. Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness helps you stay present and manage stress more effectively. Techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and body scans can improve your emotional regulation.

Learn mindfulness techniques on the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction website.

2. Cultivate a Support Network

Surrounding yourself with positive and supportive people provides a strong foundation for resilience. Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or support groups when you need help.

3. Develop Healthy Routines

A balanced lifestyle contributes to emotional stability. Focus on:

• Regular exercise to boost endorphins.
• Eating a nutritious diet.
• Prioritizing quality sleep to improve cognitive and emotional function.

4. Reframe Negative Thoughts

Cognitive reframing helps shift your perspective from “I can’t handle this” to “What can I learn from this?” Challenge unhelpful thought patterns and replace them with constructive ones.

5. Learn from Setbacks

Every failure or challenge is an opportunity for growth. Reflect on what went wrong, identify lessons learned, and apply them to future situations.

6. Seek Professional Support

Therapists and counsellors can guide you through resilience-building strategies tailored to your unique needs. Professional support provides a safe space to explore and address emotional challenges.

Book a session with a professional through our Individual Counselling Services page.

How Counselling Helps Build Emotional Resilience

Counselling is a powerful tool for enhancing emotional resilience. A trained counsellor can:

• Help identify and challenge negative thought patterns.
• Teach coping strategies for managing stress and emotions.
• Provide a safe environment to discuss and process challenges.
• Offer tools to strengthen emotional regulation and self-awareness.

Research from the Australian Psychological Society shows that individuals in counselling report a 65% increase in emotional well-being after just a few sessions (APS).

Conclusion

Building emotional resilience is a journey, not a destination. By incorporating mindfulness, maintaining healthy routines, and seeking support when needed, you can develop the skills necessary to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and balance. Remember, resilience isn’t about avoiding stress—it’s about thriving despite it.

Take the first step toward a more resilient you. Contact Vision Counselling today to book a session and start your journey toward emotional strength and balance.

What is Somatic Therapy?

Somatic therapy, also known as somatic experiencing, is a body-centered approach to healing trauma. It integrates traditional talk therapy with physical techniques such as breathing exercises, body awareness, and movement to release trauma stored in the body. Unlike traditional therapies that focus primarily on thoughts and emotions, somatic therapy acknowledges the body’s role in processing and healing from traumatic experiences.

Learn more about the trauma counselling process.

How Does Trauma Affect the Body?

Trauma is more than just a psychological event; it can have lasting physical effects. According to the American Psychological Association, trauma can dysregulate the nervous system, causing symptoms such as heightened stress responses, physical tension, and chronic pain (APA). Common physical effects of trauma include:

• Muscle tension
• Difficulty relaxing
• Digestive issues
• Fatigue or restlessness
• Increased heart rate

Somatic therapy addresses these physical manifestations by helping individuals reconnect with their bodies in a safe and supportive environment.

How Does Somatic Therapy Work?

Somatic therapy helps individuals process and release trauma by focusing on physical sensations and the body’s natural capacity for healing. Here’s how it works:

1. Cultivating Body Awareness

Somatic therapy begins by guiding individuals to tune into their physical sensations, such as tightness, tension, or numbness. This heightened awareness helps identify where trauma is stored in the body.

2. Regulating the Nervous System

By engaging in calming techniques like deep breathing or gentle movement, somatic therapy helps regulate the autonomic nervous system. This reduces the fight-or-flight response, allowing the body to return to a state of balance.

3. Releasing Stored Trauma

Through guided exercises, individuals learn to safely release pent-up energy and emotions associated with trauma. Techniques like somatic experiencing help complete the body’s natural stress response cycle.

For more information on how somatic therapy regulates the nervous system, visit the Somatic Experiencing Trauma Institute.

What is Somatic Therapy Used For?

Somatic therapy is especially effective for trauma-related conditions but can also address other challenges. Common uses include:

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Somatic therapy helps reduce intrusive thoughts, hyperarousal, and emotional numbness associated with PTSD.
• Anxiety and Depression: By focusing on the body, somatic therapy can help alleviate the physical symptoms of anxiety and depression.
• Chronic Pain and Tension: Trauma often manifests as physical discomfort. Somatic techniques help release tension stored in the body.
• Emotional Dysregulation: Somatic therapy teaches techniques to manage overwhelming emotions and build resilience.

Discover additional techniques for managing anxiety and depression through our Anxiety Counselling Services.

Benefits of Somatic Therapy for Trauma

Somatic therapy offers unique benefits for individuals recovering from trauma:

1. Holistic Healing

By addressing both the mind and body, somatic therapy provides comprehensive care, helping individuals achieve deeper healing.

2. Greater Emotional Resilience

Somatic therapy equips individuals with tools to manage stress and overwhelming emotions, fostering emotional resilience over time.

3. Improved Physical Well-Being

Many clients report reduced physical symptoms, such as chronic pain, headaches, and muscle tension, after engaging in somatic therapy.

4. Empowerment and Self-Awareness

Somatic therapy empowers individuals to reconnect with their bodies, fostering a sense of control and self-awareness.

Studies show that body-focused therapies like somatic experiencing can reduce PTSD symptoms by up to 81% (National Center for PTSD).

Who Can Benefit from Somatic Therapy?

Somatic therapy is suitable for individuals experiencing:

• Trauma from past events such as abuse, accidents, or loss
• Ongoing stress or anxiety
• Chronic pain or unexplained physical symptoms
• Emotional challenges related to grief or life transitions

If you’re unsure whether somatic therapy is right for you, a professional therapist can help assess your needs and recommend an appropriate approach.

Book a consultation with our experienced therapists at Vision Counselling to explore whether somatic therapy is the right fit for you.

Conclusion

Somatic therapy is a transformative approach for healing trauma by addressing the mind-body connection. By cultivating body awareness, regulating the nervous system, and releasing stored trauma, it provides a pathway to recovery that is both effective and empowering.

If you’re ready to explore how somatic therapy can support your healing journey, contact Vision Counselling today. Our compassionate therapists are here to guide you toward a healthier, more balanced life.

Why People Choose Counseling

Counseling is a powerful way to address emotional, mental, and relational challenges. Here are some of the most common reasons people decide to seek professional support:

1. Managing Stress and Anxiety

Life’s pressures can become overwhelming, leading to persistent stress and anxiety. Counseling helps individuals understand their triggers, develop coping strategies, and regain a sense of calm.

Anxiety disorders affect approximately 14% of Australians every year, making it one of the most common mental health conditions (Beyond Blue).

Learn more about anxiety support with Vision Counselling’s Anxiety Counselling Services.

2. Improving Relationships

Relationships are a cornerstone of happiness, but they can also be a source of stress and conflict. Counseling provides a neutral space to address communication barriers, trust issues, and unresolved conflicts, fostering deeper connections.

Discover how couples and relationship counseling can help through our Relationship Counselling Services.

3. Coping with Grief and Loss

The loss of a loved one, job, or significant life change can leave you feeling adrift. Counseling offers a supportive environment to process grief and rebuild your life after loss.

For additional resources on coping with grief, visit the Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement.

4. Navigating Major Life Transitions

From moving to a new city to starting a family or changing careers, major transitions can create uncertainty and stress. Counseling helps you adapt to change, find clarity, and embrace new opportunities with confidence.

Benefits of Counseling

The benefits of counseling go beyond resolving immediate challenges. Here’s how counseling can transform your mental and emotional well-being:

Gain Clarity and Perspective

Life’s challenges can cloud your judgment, making it hard to see solutions. Counseling offers a structured environment to unpack your thoughts and emotions, helping you gain clarity and a fresh perspective.

Develop Healthy Coping Mechanisms

Counseling provides tools to manage emotions, handle stress, and navigate difficult situations. Techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) are particularly effective for developing resilience and reducing symptoms of anxiety or depression.

Research shows that up to 75% of individuals improve significantly through therapy, with many reporting reduced anxiety and better decision-making (American Psychological Association).

Enhance Self-Discovery and Growth

Counseling isn’t just for addressing problems—it’s also for personal growth. By exploring your thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors, counseling helps you uncover your strengths and work toward becoming your best self.

What to Expect in Counseling

If you’ve never attended counseling, you might wonder what happens in a session. Here’s an overview:

Initial Assessment

The first session typically involves discussing your concerns, goals, and personal history. This helps the counselor tailor their approach to your unique needs.

Setting Goals

Together, you’ll identify short- and long-term goals, such as reducing anxiety, improving relationships, or developing coping strategies.

Ongoing Support

Counseling is a collaborative process. Your counselor will provide feedback, introduce practical tools, and adjust techniques to support your progress.

When Should You Consider Counseling?

Here are some signs that counseling might be right for you:

• Persistent feelings of overwhelm, sadness, or stress
• Difficulty communicating or resolving conflicts in relationships
• Struggling with a significant loss or life transition
• Wanting to improve emotional regulation and self-awareness
• Seeking clarity and direction for personal growth

The Importance of Seeking Professional Help

Many people hesitate to seek counseling due to stigma or misconceptions. However, counseling is a proactive step toward emotional well-being and personal growth. It’s a safe, confidential space to explore your feelings, develop strategies, and make meaningful changes.

Over 70% of individuals who attend therapy report significant improvements in their mental health and emotional resilience (American Psychological Association).

Conclusion

Counseling is more than just a way to address life’s challenges—it’s an opportunity to invest in yourself, gain clarity, and build a better future. Whether you’re navigating stress, improving relationships, or seeking personal growth, counseling provides the tools and support you need to thrive.

Start your journey to emotional well-being with Vision Counselling. Contact us today to book a session and take the first step toward a brighter tomorrow.

Picture this: It’s been a tough day. Deadlines are looming, the pressure is high, and you could use a break. You open your door, and there’s your furry friend, wagging its tail or purring at your feet, greeting you as if you’re the most important person in the world. For those dealing with anxiety or depression, moments like these aren’t just feel-good—they can be downright therapeutic. Here at Vision Counselling, we’ve witnessed firsthand the magic that pet companionship can weave into our clients’ lives.

Why Pets Make the Perfect Therapists

There’s no PhD needed for pets to be excellent listeners. Unconditional love, the wag of a tail, or the soft purr on your lap can soothe the most wrought nerves. Research suggests that interacting with animals can decrease the levels of cortisol—a stress-related hormone—while increasing serotonin, a feel-good chemical in the brain. This combination creates a natural tendency toward relaxation.

Our clients often describe their pets as trusted confidants, ready to lend an “ear” without judgment. When words are hard to find, a gentle paw on your knee can say plenty.

Enhancing Counselling with Pet Therapy

While traditional counselling services are fundamental, combining these with the presence of a pet can enhance the healing process. From fluffy dogs to cuddly cats, these animals offer a nonverbal way to express emotions or feelings that might be hard to articulate. Pet therapy has increasingly found a place in practices—allowing the human heart to feel just a tad lighter.

The benefit of having such companions isn’t just fluff and wagging tails. It’s those moments in between, the quiet comfort of lying side by side, where true healing often begins.

The Convenience of Pet Care

One hurdle that pet owners sometimes face is managing pet health appointments—especially when life gets hectic. That’s where mobile vet services come into play. These services offer convenient, at-home veterinary care, ensuring your furry friend stays in top shape while you focus on your emotional journey. This service cuts down on stress for both pets and owners, allowing more time for bonding and healing.

Real Stories, Tangible Results

Let me share a story about one of our clients, Sam. Sam struggled with severe anxiety and found it difficult to open up in traditional therapy settings. However, when she brought in her Labrador, Max, everything changed. Max had a way of nudging Sam’s hand whenever the conversation got tough, as if urging her that it was alright to go on. With Max by her side, Sam found a new-found strength to face her challenges.

These are the kinds of transformations we witness when pets are integrated into therapeutic settings. They provide a bridge—sometimes an unexpected one—yet thoroughly effective.

Engage with Vision Counselling

Vision Counselling in Perth is all about creating a space where clients feel supported both emotionally and mentally. We understand the struggles and know that healing looks different for everyone. With a team of qualified counsellors, psychotherapists, and psychologists, our focus is providing custom care tailored to individual needs. Whether it’s through our private practice or telehealth therapy across Australia, help is accessible and compassionate.

Conclusion: A Journey Worth Taking

The bond between humans and animals is a powerful one. It’s a symbiotic relationship where both parties feel the benefits, creating a soothing presence that supports emotional healing. As we continue to understand and promote pet companionship alongside traditional therapy, we find ourselves at the precipice of a deeper understanding of emotional well-being.

So, next time you find yourself needing a bit of support, remember that a warm, furry friend—complete with wagging tails or soft purrs—might just be the therapist you didn’t know you needed. And if your pet needs a check-up, don’t forget about the ease of a mobile vet service. It’s one less thing to worry about on your path to wellness.

Seek the solace that awaits you at Vision Counselling; remember, it’s all about taking small steps toward a brighter, pawsitively serene tomorrow. Book a session online and let’s embark on this healing journey together!

What is Couples Therapy?

Couples therapy, also known as relationship counseling, is a form of therapy that focuses on improving communication and resolving conflicts between partners. Therapists help couples identify patterns of behavior that are harming their relationship and work towards healthier communication methods. In Perth, couples therapy is widely accessible, with many qualified therapists offering personalized guidance for couples in need.

How Can Couples Therapy Help a Relationship?

Couples therapy can provide many benefits, including:

• Improved Communication: Therapists teach couples how to express their feelings and listen to their partner in a constructive way.
• Conflict Resolution Skills: Therapists help couples learn how to resolve disputes without damaging the relationship further.
• Rebuilding Trust: For couples struggling with infidelity or broken trust, therapy offers a structured way to rebuild the foundation of their relationship.
• Strengthening Emotional Bonds: By fostering empathy and understanding, couples therapy can help partners reconnect on an emotional level.

Does Couples Therapy Always Work?

While couples therapy can be highly effective, it’s important to note that it doesn’t always “save” every relationship. Success largely depends on both partners’ commitment to the process and willingness to change. In Perth, couples therapy professionals often emphasize the importance of attending regular sessions and putting in the effort outside of the therapy room. Couples therapy is more likely to work if both individuals are open to self-reflection and improving their relationship dynamics.

What to Expect from Couples Therapy in Perth

Couples therapy in Perth typically involves both partners attending sessions together, though individual sessions may also be part of the process. Therapists in Perth often specialize in different areas, such as relationship counseling, family therapy, and marriage counseling, ensuring tailored approaches to each couple’s unique situation. Sessions usually last around 50-60 minutes and involve open discussions, practical exercises, and sometimes homework to practice new skills.

Is Couples Therapy Right for You?

Is Couples Therapy Right for You?
Couples therapy can be particularly effective for those dealing with recurring arguments, communication issues, infidelity, or loss of connection. If you’re in Perth and considering therapy, speaking to a local relationship counselor can provide insight into whether this approach is right for you and your partner. Therapy is not just about solving immediate problems but also about building a healthier, more resilient relationship for the future.

Conclusion
Couples therapy has saved many relationships, providing the necessary tools to overcome challenges, rebuild trust, and strengthen emotional bonds. While there are no guarantees, if both partners are committed, couples therapy in Perth can offer a path towards healing and reconnection, helping couples rediscover the joy in their relationship.

Students face a variety of challenges during their academic journey, from academic pressure and social dynamics to mental health concerns. Counselling plays a crucial role in supporting students by providing them with a safe space to express their feelings, gain perspective, and develop coping strategies. In Australia, counselling services are increasingly available in schools and universities, recognizing the impact mental health can have on academic success and personal development.

Mental Health Support for Students

One of the primary reasons counselling is important for students is its role in promoting mental health. Adolescence and young adulthood are critical periods for mental well-being, and many students struggle with issues like anxiety, depression, stress, and loneliness. According to a 2020 survey by Mission Australia, around 40% of young Australians aged 15-19 reported feeling stressed or anxious most of the time (source: Mission Australia 2020).

School and university counsellors are trained to help students navigate these challenges, offering techniques to manage stress, improve emotional regulation, and enhance overall mental well-being. Early intervention can prevent minor issues from escalating into more serious mental health problems.

Academic Pressure and Performance

Academic expectations can create significant stress for students. Many students struggle with time management, maintaining focus, and meeting academic deadlines, which can affect both their mental health and academic performance. Counsellors can assist students by helping them develop effective study habits, manage their time better, and balance academic demands with other aspects of life.

A 2019 study by Headspace Australia revealed that more than 60% of students who accessed counselling services reported improved academic performance and motivation after attending regular sessions (source: Headspace 2019). This shows the direct link between mental health support and academic success.

Social and Emotional Development

In addition to academic pressure, students face challenges in social dynamics, including peer relationships, bullying, and feelings of isolation. Counselling can play an essential role in helping students develop healthy social skills and emotional intelligence. By providing a non-judgmental space to discuss their experiences, counsellors help students navigate friendships, resolve conflicts, and build self-esteem.

A 2021 Australian Psychological Society report found that students who participate in school-based counselling programs experience improved social skills, with 65% of students reporting better relationships with peers (source: APS 2021). These skills are essential for success both in school and later in life.

Career and Future Guidance

Counselling doesn’t only focus on mental health and personal issues. For high school and university students, career guidance is another important aspect of counselling. Counsellors can help students explore potential career paths, understand their strengths and interests, and make informed decisions about their future studies or job opportunities.

In Australia, many educational institutions provide access to career counsellors who can assist with everything from choosing subjects to exploring post-graduation options. Students who have access to career counselling are 20% more likely to feel confident about their future career choices (source: Australian Career Development Foundation, 2021).

Coping with Life Transitions

Students often face significant life transitions, such as moving from primary to high school, transitioning from high school to university, or entering the workforce. These changes can be overwhelming and trigger anxiety or fear about the future. Counselling can provide students with tools to manage these transitions and offer reassurance that these feelings are normal.

A report from Beyond Blue highlights that nearly 30% of young Australians find the transition from high school to university or work difficult (source: Beyond Blue 2020). Counsellors help students build resilience and adaptability to cope with these life changes.

Conclusion: The Lifelong Benefits of Student Counselling

Counselling is a valuable resource for students, offering mental health support, academic guidance, and social development. By providing a safe and supportive environment, counselling can help students overcome challenges, improve their mental well-being, and succeed both personally and academically. As Australia continues to prioritize mental health in schools and universities, the importance of accessible counselling services for students cannot be overstated.

References:

1. Mission Australia. (2020). Young Australians report on stress and anxiety levels.
2. Headspace Australia. (2019). The impact of counselling on student academic performance.
3. Australian Psychological Society. (2021). The benefits of school-based counselling for students.
4. Australian Career Development Foundation. (2021). Career counselling and student confidence in future decisions.
5. Beyond Blue. (2020). Challenges in transitioning from high school to further study or work.