Sunshine Coast Counselling Services available from $85 per session*

Sunshine Coast Counselling: find your courage

Personalised Counselling Services including:

Anxiety Management
Depression Treatment
Relationship Counselling
Workplace Stress Counselling
Men’s Counselling

*Discounted rates for students, pensioners and the unemployed start at $85

Mental Health Counselling Services

Men's Mental Health

Supporting Men

Many men find it challenging to seek mental health support due to societal expectations and stigma. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your feelings, develop coping strategies, and work through life’s challenges. I understand the unique pressures men face and offer tailored approaches that resonate with your experiences.

Workplace Conflict

Empowering You at Work

Workplace stress and conflict can significantly impact your mental health and overall well-being. My counselling services help you navigate difficult workplace relationships, develop communication skills, address adjustment issues, financial hardship, or establish healthy boundaries. We’ll work together to empower you in your professional environment.

Anxiety Counselling

Your Courageous Path

Anxiety can make even small decisions feel overwhelming. I use evidence-based approaches to help you understand your anxiety patterns, challenge unhelpful thoughts, and develop grounding techniques that actually work. You don’t have to live in a constant state of worry, with the right support, a calmer, more confident life is within reach.

Depression Counselling

Rediscover Your Light

Depression can make it hard to see a way forward, but healing is possible with the right support. I offer a warm, non-judgmental space where you can speak honestly about how you’re feeling. Using proven therapeutic approaches, we’ll work together to lift the weight of depression, rebuild motivation, and reconnect you with what brings meaning to your life.

Couples Counselling

Rediscover Connection

Every relationship goes through difficult seasons. Whether you’re navigating communication breakdowns, trust issues, or major life changes, couples counselling provides a safe space for both partners to be heard. I help you develop healthier patterns of connection, deepen understanding, and find a path forward, together or as individuals.

Trauma Counselling

Evidence-Based Trauma Support

Trauma can leave lasting imprints on your mind, body, and relationships. I use trauma-informed, evidence-based methods to help you process difficult experiences without feeling overwhelmed or re-traumatised. At every step, you remain in control of your healing journey. It’s possible to reclaim your sense of safety and step into life with renewed strength.

Grief and Loss Counselling

Pathways to Renewal

Grief is deeply personal, there’s no right or wrong way to experience it. Whether you’ve lost a loved one, a relationship, a job, or a sense of self, I offer compassionate support to help you process your pain at your own pace. Together, we’ll find ways to honour your loss while gently rebuilding hope and meaning for the future.

LGBTQIA+ Counselling

A Space Where You Belong

Navigating identity, relationships, family, or community pressures can be uniquely challenging for LGBTQIA+ individuals. I provide an affirming, inclusive, and judgment-free environment where your experiences are fully respected. Whether you’re exploring your identity, managing discrimination, or simply needing support.

About The Founder

Who I am,
what I do

I’m Phillip Hayston, a registered counsellor Sunshine Coast clients work with for anxiety, depression, workplace conflict, men’s mental health, trauma and grief. I founded Your Courageous Life to offer a smaller, more personal alternative to large multi-practitioner clinics – every session is with me, not whoever’s available.

My approach is to take the time to assess an individual’s capacity and capability to therapy. This recognises that everyone is different and that no one approach will fit all. Inner resources may be hidden or “protected” due to lifestyle, life events or trauma. I share initial observations and provide advice on a suggested therapeutic approach.

With personal, lived experience in these areas of specialisation, I am committed to continuously researching, learning and expanding my therapies to support you on your journey.

I am a post graduate of Macquarie University, holding an MBA, undergraduate degrees in the Arts and Commerce, and Diplomas in Corporate Governance and Counselling. I transitioned from a career in commerce seven years ago to life coaching and support to those who had suffered bullying and intimidation in the workplace. My counselling practice has provided me further opportunities to pursue my passion: supporting those in need through therapeutic and technical knowledge, while drawing from a lived experience.

About

Why Choose a Sunshine Coast Counsellor

I provide support for those struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Challenges, loss of identity and social connections

Professional Expertise You Can Trust.

When you’re looking for a counsellor Sunshine Coast has plenty of options – what sets Your Courageous Life apart is registration with the Australian Counselling Association (ACA), genuine local availability, and a courage-based approach built around your goals, not a generic treatment plan.

Personalised Mental Health Care Plan.

Every person’s journey is unique, which is why we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Your counselling sessions are designed specifically for your needs, goals, and circumstances. I take time to understand your story and create a therapeutic approach that works for you.

Flexible and Accessible
Support.

I know that accessing mental health support needs to fit around your life. That’s why I offer multiple ways to connect – whether you prefer face-to-face sessions, phone consultations, or online counselling via Zoom. Flexible scheduling accommodates your busy lifestyle.

When we flee our vulnerability, we lose our full capacity for feeling emotion. We cannot selectively numb our feelings. When we build a wall to keep the pain out (or in), we also keep out the joy and the peace of mind that are achievable. Because, in some cases, the wall is a necessary protection, the loss of happiness is a necessary sacrifice.

― Gabor Maté

What Our Sunshine Coast Counselling Clients Say

Zac W.

12 months ago

I was nervous going in to my first counselling session, but Phillip immediately made me feel comfortable. It felt completely normal, not intimidating or clinical, just relaxed conversation that made it easy to share. I’ve been working with Phillip for almost 18 months now, and I’ve genuinely changed as a person, in the best possible way. I’m less reactive, more grounded, and I finally have the tools to handle life’s ups and downs and come out better each time. Phillip is structured, attentive, and excellent at what he does. He listens attentively and he understands what you’re trying to say, even when you can’t quite find the words. His approach is thoughtful, practical, and every session feels purposeful. If you’re on the fence about starting counselling, or worried about opening up to someone new, you don’t need to worry about that with Phillip. He creates a space that feels safe, supportive, and human, and that’s made all the difference for me.

Jojiana L

1 year ago

Phillip is an amazing therapist who has helped me overcome some of the difficulties I faced with my unhelpful thinking. Through his therapy sessions he shared various cognitive tools allowing for more self compassion, understanding and acceptance on my part. I am grateful for his help throughout the past couple of weeks of counselling.

Connor C.

1 year ago

Philip is an incredible counsellor with a wealth of life experience and deep insight. He creates a genuine, safe space where you feel truly heard and supported. His guidance is practical, honest, and grounded — not just theory, but real tools for growth. You can tell he genuinely wants his clients to succeed. Highly recommend

Graham L.

3 years ago

Phillip has a huge breadth of experience in counselling and crisis management. I have spent much time in consultation with Phillip and can recommend him highly. He is an honest and caring person who really knows his stuff. He applies his intelligence and compassion expertly in the interests of his clients. He is grounded by his own extensive life experience and wisdom and is the ideal person to discuss any issue in complete safety.

Adam

3 years ago

Phillip is an excellent listener and empathic counsellor. His work industry experience provides him with so many insights to share on how best to manage workplace conflict, stress and anxiety. I highly recommend Phillip if you are struggling at work or at home.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know I am ready for counselling?

Only you can determine if you’re ready for counselling. If you’re finding it difficult to cope with everyday life, experiencing persistent anxiety or low mood, feeling increasingly isolated, or simply want support navigating life’s challenges, it may be helpful to reach out. Remember, you don’t need to be in crisis to benefit from counselling support.

What is discussed in the initial consultation?

The primary focus of your free 20-minute consultation is getting to know you and understanding your reasons for seeking therapy. We’ll explore what you hope to achieve through counselling, discuss how my approach might help, and determine if we’re a good fit for working together. There’s no pressure or commitment – it’s simply an opportunity to see if my services align with your needs.

Do I need a referral to see a counsellor?

No, you don’t need a referral to access our counselling services. However, you may wish to speak with your GP about your mental health concerns, as they can provide additional support and may be able to discuss options for mental health care plans that could help with costs.

How many sessions will I need?

The number of sessions varies greatly depending on your individual needs and goals. Some people find significant benefit from just a few sessions, while others prefer longer-term support. We’ll discuss this during your consultation and regularly review your progress to ensure you’re getting the support that’s most helpful for you.

What's the difference between counselling and psychology?

Counsellors and psychologists both provide mental health support, but they have different training backgrounds. Counsellors focus on providing therapeutic support for life challenges, relationship conflicts and issues, and mental health concerns. Psychologists have additional training in psychological assessment and diagnosis. Both can be highly effective – the most important factor is finding someone you feel comfortable working with.

Is online counselling as effective as face-to-face sessions?

Research shows that online counselling can be just as effective as in-person sessions for many people and many types of concerns. The key is finding the format that works best for you. Some people prefer the convenience and comfort of online sessions, while others benefit from face-to-face interaction. We can discuss what might work best for your situation during your consultation.

Do you offer counselling across the whole Sunshine Coast?

Yes – while our practice is based in Peregian Springs, we see clients from right across the Sunshine Coast, including Noosa, Coolum, Maroochydore and Caloundra, either in person or via phone and Zoom sessions for clients further afield.

Education

Explore & grow today
with my blog

Explore my blog section to gain a better understanding of mental health topics and how counselling might help you. My articles cover various aspects of mental health, well-being, and personal growth.

Understanding and Managing Stress

We all carry stress. It’s part...

How Grief Changes You and Ways to Move Forward

Grief can change the way you...

Book a free consultation and start your journey to courage and strength.

I understand that reaching out for mental health support can feel daunting. That’s why I offer a free, no-pressure consultation to help you determine if my counselling services are right for you.