Counselling for Mental Health issues 

At BNC, we are committed and passionate about investigating and treating the possible underlying causes of mental health concerns. The clinic applies a multidisciplinary clinical approach to assessment and intervention, drawing from current knowledge in the areas of Psychology, Medicine, Neuroscience, Psychophysiology, Nutrition and Microbiology. Our psychological counselling services focus on promoting life skills, healthy brain function, and general wellbeing in children, adolescents, and adults either in person at the clinic or by Telehealth (Zoom or phone). The following is a list of major counselling modalities used by our psychologists along with a brief account of their usefulness. The modality used is tailored to the specific needs of each client

1. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) CBT is one of the most widely researched and evidence-based modalities. It focusses on identifying and restructuring unhelpful thought patterns and associated behaviours. CBT has proven effectiveness across a range of conditions, including depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. It’s particularly valued for its structured approach and ability to produce measurable, lasting change (research.com).

2. Psychodynamic Therapy Rooted in Freudian theory, psychodynamic therapy explores unconscious processes and past experiences that shape current behaviour. It’s especially useful for those seeking insight into deep-seated emotional issues and patterns, and has demonstrated efficacy in treating depression and personality disorders (cuny.edu).

 3. Humanistic therapy was developed by Abraham Maslow and  Carl Rogers was largely responsible for Person-Centered Therapy, which emphasises unconditional positive regard, empathy, and the therapist-client relationship. Humanistic counselling is effective in promoting self-acceptance and personal growth, often benefiting clients struggling with self-esteem and existential concerns (research.com). You may recognise Maslow's hierarchy of needs diagram below.

4. Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) SFBT is goal-oriented and concentrates on finding practical solutions in the present and future, rather than dwelling on past problems. Its brevity and focus on strengths make it well-suited for clients seeking quick, actionable change (cuny.edu).

5. Motivational Interviewing (MI) MI is a collaborative, client-centered approach designed to elicit and strengthen motivation for change, especially in individuals struggling with ambivalence (such as those with substance use issues). Research supports its effectiveness in improving treatment adherence and outcomes (AJN The American Journal of Nursing).

6. Family and Couples Therapy These modalities address relational dynamics and are effective for families and couples experiencing conflict, communication breakdowns, or systemic issues. Approaches like Structural Family Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy have strong evidence bases (research.com).

Usefulness and Effectiveness Meta-analyses suggest that the effectiveness of a modality often depends on factors like the therapist/client therapeutic relationship, client preference, and the specific issue being treated. Combined treatments (e.g., medication plus counselling) may outperform single-modality approaches, particularly for complex conditions like depression (Health Services Insights). Overall, evidence-based modalities such as CBT, MI, and structured family interventions have robust support across diverse populations (research.com). These modalities represent the core options available to clients, each with demonstrated strengths for particular populations or clinical concerns.

“Sometimes all that is needed is a hand to hold, an ear to listen, and a heart to understand.” 
“Author unknown”

How Counselling Can Help?

Counselling aims to assist in dealing with a range of difficult issues, from day-to-day concerns to more serious and long-term psychological problems. Counselling can help you gain a greater understanding of your feelings and help you make positive changes in your life. It can also help you set realistic goals for the future and turn those goals into actions. You will be expected to be an active participant in your therapy and may be given ‘homework’ as part of your behavioural change plan. Our therapeutic approach emphasises your strengths in achieving your desired outcomes.

Support for Counselling at BNC

1. Referrals & Rebates

Referrals for counselling at BNC can be made by parents, careers, GPs, schools, or other health professionals. Medicare rebates are available for up to 10 sessions per calendar year, if you have a referral and Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) from your GP, or a referral from a Paediatrician or Psychiatrist. Gap fees do apply. Rebates can be claimed through private health funds. Please check eligibility with your individual fund.

2. Nutritional Support

Recent research from both Europe and the United States highlights a strong link between nutrient deficiencies and mental health issues, including depression and mood disorders. Studies show that deficiencies in nutrients can contribute to the development or worsening of depressive symptoms, emphasising the importance of nutritional assessment in clinical mental health care (Nutrients, 2023; Journal of Affective Disorders, 2022).

Clinical guidelines from leading psychiatric organisations in Europe now recommend that mental health professionals consider lifestyle and dietary interventions, including referral to a dietitian or nutritionist, as part of an integrated approach to managing depression and other mood disorders. The European Psychiatric Association's recent guidance explicitly supports individualised dietary assessment and intervention to improve outcomes for adults with severe mental illness (European Psychiatry, 2024). Similarly, U.S.-based research underscores the need for systematic nutritional evaluation, with evidence that targeted dietary support and referrals can play a meaningful role in mental health recovery (Nutrition Reviews, 2021). In Australia the clinical guidelines for ADHD make similar recommendations when indicated.

When clinically indicated, psychologists at the clinic may suggest that patients consult with a dietitian or nutritionist for nutritional assessments to investigate underlying nutrient deficiencies and recommend nutritional interventions to support their mental health (Wiley Online Library, 2023).

Updated on:  18/02/2026 by: Dr. Jacques Duff – BA Psych; Grad Dip Psych; PhD; MAPS; MECNS; MAAAPB; MISNR; FANSA
Reviewed on: 21/02/2026 by: Bernard Ferriere - BA; Grad Dip App Psych; Dip Clinical Hypnosis; FCCP; MAPS; MASH; Clinical Psychologist