Philip "Phil" Burns, ACA

Philip "Phil" Burns is an experienced counsellor and a member of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA). He works with individuals, couples and families presenting with a wide range of concerns, including stress, anxiety, relationship difficulties, trauma and intimacy-related issues. Phil aims to give clients the time and space to explore their identity and values so they can make choices that align with what matters most to them.

He supports people to recognise their strengths and to define what works and what does not, helping them develop practical skills suited to their life. Each session is adapted to the client’s needs, drawing on a range of counselling models such as person-centred therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, narrative approaches, cognitive behavioural techniques, solution-focused work and mindfulness. Phil pays careful attention to how past experiences influence present behaviour and relationships, taking time to understand each person’s unique journey and the reasons they have sought counselling.

Phil approaches counselling as a collaborative process, encouraging clients to take an active role in change and to build confidence in their capacity to face life’s challenges. He seeks to help people increase connection, wellbeing and a sense of fulfilment through tailored therapeutic work.

Evidence-based approaches for online counselling

Philip "Phil" Burns commonly draws on person-centred work, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and cognitive behavioural techniques. Person-centred counselling focuses on building a respectful, empathetic relationship so clients can explore their values and strengths and make decisions that suit them. Acceptance and commitment therapy helps people notice difficult thoughts and feelings without being driven by them, then commit to actions that reflect their chosen values - useful for anxiety, stress and relationship concerns. Cognitive behavioural approaches explore the links between thoughts, emotions and behaviour, teaching practical skills to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety and improve everyday functioning.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Phil works collaboratively with clients to assess needs, goals and preferences, and will adapt methods over time so the work fits the person rather than expecting the person to fit a single model. This collaborative stance helps ensure therapy is relevant and manageable.

Online therapy offers flexibility and accessibility through video calls, phone sessions, live chat and text-based messaging. These options make it easier to fit counselling around work, family and mobility needs, and allow clients to engage from different locations while working with appropriately qualified or registered professionals and therapists.