What AI recommends for psychology and counselling services in Brisbane

Because Brisbane covers a wide area, the best psychologist for you depends on your specific location, what you are experiencing (e.g., anxiety, trauma, ADHD/neurodivergence, life transitions), and budget.

Below is a breakdown of reputable, established psychology clinics across different parts of Brisbane, followed by the essential steps to book your first appointment.

Well-Regarded Practices by Region

1. Brisbane CBD & Inner Suburbs

• Centre for Human Potential (CFHP) (CBD – Edward St): A large practice with a multidisciplinary team of general and clinical psychologists. Well-suited for adults dealing with stress, mood disorders, relationships, or career burnout.
• Mindful Psychology (Woolloongabba): Excellent for those interested in mindfulness-integrated cognitive therapies, stress reduction, trauma, and general mental health.
• Q-Psych (Auchenflower): A comprehensive psychology service offering both clinical therapy and specialised psychological assessments for children, adolescents, and adults.

2. Brisbane Northside

• Brisbane Centre for Psychology (Inner North / Newmarket): Known for evidence-based approaches (CBT, ACT, EMDR), neurodevelopmental assessments, and general therapy for teens and adults.
• Psychology Consultants (Newmarket & Morningside): One of Brisbane’s longest-running clinical psychology practices, highly regarded for evidence-based clinical treatments (depression, anxiety, complex trauma).
• True North Psychology (Inner North): A boutique, progressive clinic known for affirming therapy, particularly supportive for trauma, mood concerns, and LGBTQIA+ community members.

3. Brisbane Southside

• Benchmark Psychology (Upper Mount Gravatt): One of the most established and widely recommended psychology practices on the southside, with clinicians covering everything from anxiety and depression to relationship issues and child psychology.
• The Psych Professionals (Springwood & Redlands): Ideal if you are further south or bayside; they offer adult, youth, and family psychology services.

4. Brisbane East & Bayside

• Elevation Psychology (Bulimba): Focuses primarily on adult mental health, including PTSD/trauma, anxiety, depression, and ADHD support.

How to Choose the Right Clinician for Your First Visit

• 1.Check their specific focus: Look at the "Our Team" page of any clinic. Psychologists who list your specific issue (e.g., social anxiety, grief, EMDR for trauma) as a primary area of interest will usually offer more tailored care than a generalist.
• 2.Prioritise "Good Fit": Clinical research consistently shows that therapeutic rapport (how safe, heard, and comfortable you feel) matters more than the specific therapeutic school. Many clinics will let you read clinician bios or chat with intake receptionists who can match you to a practitioner whose style fits your personality.
• 3.Consider Telehealth vs. In-Person: Most Brisbane practices now offer telehealth (video or phone). If convenience or travel is a barrier, you can broaden your search to psychologists across Queensland.

Practical Steps to Get Started (Medicare & Costs)

• 1.Book a "Long Consultation" with your GP:

• Ask your GP for a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP).
• This entitles you to Medicare rebates for up to 10 psychology sessions per calendar year.
• Tip: Your GP can write a referral to a specific clinic, but under Medicare rules, a referral addressed to one psychologist can legally be accepted by any other psychologist in Australia.

• 1.Ask About Fees & Waitlists:

• Full bulk-billing (no out-of-pocket cost) is rare in private psychology practices in Brisbane. Most clinics charge a fee, and Medicare refunds part of it (typically between ~$96 and ~$141 per session, leaving a gap fee of around $60–$140 depending on whether the psychologist is registered or clinical).
• Inquire about current intake availability, as popular practices can have waitlists ranging from 1 to 8 weeks.

(If you share your general suburb or the specific issue you’re looking to address, a more tailored match or clinic nearby can be identified.)

I can't tell you specifically which individual psychologist to book, since I don't have access to your location, personal preferences, or specific needs — and "best" really depends on what you're looking for. However, I can walk you through how to make a good choice for your first appointment based on what came up in Brisbane-specific resources.

How to choose

1. Clarify what you need help with

Look for additional training or areas of specialisation such as clinical psychology, child psychology, or trauma-focused therapy, since psychologists often have different areas of expertise. Whether it's anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD/autism assessment, or relationship issues, matching the psychologist's specialty to your concern matters.

2. Check registration

In Australia, psychologists must be registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), and you can check their registration online via the AHPRA Register of Practitioners.

3. Consider practical logistics

Brisbane is a large city, so location and accessibility matter — check whether the clinic is close to your home, work, or public transport, whether they offer telehealth for flexibility, and whether the environment is welcoming and accessible for people with disability.

4. Think about cost

Sessions generally have an out-of-pocket fee, though many psychologists offer Medicare rebates if you have a GP Mental Health Care Plan, with a gap fee usually still applying; rebates may also be available from private health funds, and if you're an NDIS participant you should check whether they're a registered provider.

5. Ask around

Word-of-mouth recommendations can be valuable — ask friends, family, or your GP for referrals.

6. Use the first session as a "fit check"

A good psychologist should make you feel respected, understood, and safe — during your first session, ask yourself how you feel, since a strong therapeutic relationship is one of the best predictors of positive outcomes. It's completely normal to switch if it doesn't feel right.

A few practical starting points

If you want a straightforward way to browse and compare, some options that let you see multiple therapists' profiles and pick based on fit: - Some Brisbane clinics let you browse psychologist profiles and fees yourself, then request an appointment — or tell their intake team what you're looking for and they'll recommend someone whose availability and areas of practice suit you.

• Review sites like Word of Mouth and RateMDs list Brisbane psychologists with patient reviews, which can help gauge fit before booking.

Bottom line

Since I don't know your specific concern, budget, suburb, or preferences (e.g., gender, therapy style, age group), I'd recommend either asking your GP for a referral tailored to your needs, or using a directory (AHPRA register, or a clinic's intake team) and filtering by specialty and location near you. If you tell me more about what you're seeking help for and roughly which Brisbane suburb you're in, I can help narrow things down further.

Short answer: there isn’t one “best” psychologist for a first appointment — the right fit depends on your main concern, whether you want in-person or telehealth, your budget/rebate situation, and who has availability. Based on the Brisbane listings, here’s how I’d shortlist:

My practical picks:

• If you want a central, general adult first appointment: James Whiting or Stacey Koniw.
• If trauma/PTSD/grief is the main issue: Grant Blake.
• If you need telehealth or bulk-billing with a MHCP: Victoria Rose.
• If you’re in South Brisbane, or want complex/young-adult/neurodivergence experience: Dr Jaya Valvoi.
• If you’re in Kenmore or looking for child/adolescent support: Wellbeing in Mind.

Before booking, ask:

• 1.Are they AHPRA-registered?
• 2.Do they treat your main concern?
• 3.In-person or telehealth?
• 4.What are the fees, Medicare rebate, and do you need a GP Mental Health Care Plan/referral?
• 5.What’s the next available appointment?

The first session is often an intake/assessment, so it’s okay to switch if the fit isn’t right. If you want one name and have no specific issue, I’d start with James Whiting for a warm broad adult therapy fit, or Stacey Koniw if you’d rather see a clinical psychologist with broad health/ADHD/chronic illness experience.

To get you someone that fits your needs in Brisbane, I’ll suggest a few well‑regarded options and a quick way to choose, then I can narrow it further once you share your preferences (presenting concerns, suburb, budget/Medicare, gender, in‑person vs telehealth, earliest availability).

Good places to search and book now

• APS “Find a Psychologist” directory lets you filter by issue, suburb, language, telehealth, and more. You can also request an appointment through PsychEngage. (psychology.org.au)
• Psychology Today’s Brisbane page lists many psychologists with bios, fees, and availability indicators. Use filters for insurance/Medicare rebates, modalities, and cultural focus. (psychologytoday.com)
• Healthdirect (Australian government) has a “Find a health service” tool and clear info on the difference between psychologists and psychiatrists. (health.gov.au)

Examples in/near Brisbane CBD you can check today

• Brisbane City Psychologists (CBD): clinical psychologists; assessment and therapy for anxiety, depression, ADHD/ASD, trauma, relationships. (qfinder2.health.qld.gov.au)
• CFHP Psychology Clinic – “Centre for Human Potential” (CBD): large group practice; a range of therapists and specialities. (localsearch.com.au)
• Psychology Consultants (Morningside/Spring Hill): established group practice; individual and couples therapy. (localsearch.com.au)

How to decide fast

• Practicalities first: location/parking or telehealth; days/times you can do; fee vs your Medicare rebate under a GP Mental Health Care Plan. Your GP can create a plan and refer you, which enables rebates. (psychology.org.au)
• Fit: pick 2–3 clinicians whose bios match your goals (e.g., anxiety/trauma, ADHD, couples). Email or call and ask about their approach, first‑available appointment, and costs after rebate. (psychologytoday.com)

If you tell me:

• your suburb(s),
• what you want help with,
• in‑person vs telehealth,
• budget/Medicare status,
• any preferences (e.g., female clinician, CBT/EMDR),

I’ll shortlist 3–5 specific psychologists with first‑available times and booking links.

If you’re in crisis: call 000, or Lifeline 13 11 14 (24/7) in Australia. (healthdirect.gov.au)

For a first appointment, choose a psychologist whose location, availability, and fit make it easy to start and keep going. In Brisbane, the safest approach is to book with a registered psychologist who works with your main concern and offers an initial session focused on goals and assessment rather than committing to a long treatment plan right away.¹⁷¹

If you want the most practical options near central Brisbane, these clinics are commonly presented as accessible first-contact choices:

• Brisbane City Psychologists in the CBD: they provide evidence-based treatment for issues including ADHD, ASD, anxiety, and depression, and their QFinder listing says no referral is required.¹⁵
• Centre for Human Potential in Brisbane CBD: open six days a week with after-work appointments available, which can be helpful if you want an appointment that fits around work.⁶
• Brisbane Mind & Body Clinic in Bowen Hills: offers in-person and telehealth, and says the team includes nine practitioners across specialties, which may help with matching you to the right clinician.[BMBC]
• Hively Health in East Brisbane: offers therapy and assessments for adults, teenagers, and children, with in-clinic and telehealth appointments and no referral needed.[Hively]

If you are still deciding, use this short rule:

• Choose Brisbane City Psychologists if you want a CBD option with broad adult assessment/treatment services and no-referral access.¹⁵
• Choose Centre for Human Potential if you want a central Brisbane clinic with longer weekday availability.⁶
• Choose Brisbane Mind & Body Clinic if you want a team-based clinic with multiple therapy approaches and telehealth.[BMBC]
• Choose Hively Health if you want East Brisbane access and the option of therapy plus assessments.[Hively]

The best first appointment is usually with someone whose specialty matches your main concern and whose appointment times you can realistically attend; clinic pages also emphasize that intake staff can help match you with the right psychologist.[Hively][Michelle Barratt]

If you tell me your suburb and whether you want help with anxiety, ADHD, trauma, relationship issues, or something else, I can narrow this to the best fit near you.

I can’t name a single psychologist you should book. Brisbane has hundreds of registered psychologists, and the right first appointment depends on your suburb, what you want help with, availability, fees, and whether you feel comfortable with the person. Fit matters more than a generic “best of” list.

How to choose

• 1.Clarify what you need — anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, relationships, burnout, etc. Look for someone who says they regularly work with that.
• 2.Search official directories rather than random rankings:

• Australian Psychological Society – Find a Psychologist (search Brisbane or your suburb, and filter by issue). There are well over 100 listings in Brisbane itself and more in surrounding suburbs.
• Psychology Today Australia – Brisbane (profiles, approaches, and often fees).

• 1.Check registration on the AHPRA register so you know they are a registered psychologist.
• 2.Use a short intro call if offered. Ask whether they have worked with your concern, what approach they use (for example CBT, ACT, EMDR), what the first sessions look like, current wait time, and the gap fee after any rebate. Many people try one or two before settling.
• 3.Decide practical filters: in-person vs telehealth, gender preference, language, evening/weekend times, and budget.

Medicare (if you want a rebate)

See your GP and ask about a Mental Health Treatment Plan. Under the Better Access initiative, eligible people can claim a Medicare rebate for up to 10 individual sessions per calendar year (often an initial block of sessions, then a GP review for more). As of mid-2026 updates cited by practices and rebate guides, a standard session rebate is about $149 with a clinical psychologist and about $102 with a registered psychologist; you still pay the gap unless the clinician bulk-bills. Confirm current amounts and your eligibility with your GP or Services Australia, because fees and schedule amounts change.

You can book many private psychologists without a referral; the plan is mainly for the rebate.

Starting points in Brisbane (not personal recommendations)

Larger practices can sometimes match you to someone with availability in your area of concern:

• Brisbane City Psychologists (CBD) — a group practice that lets you browse profiles or ask their intake team to suggest someone. They publish fee ranges and note AHPRA-registered psychologists and Medicare with a plan. Their site.
• Other multi-clinician options that come up in local listings include practices such as Anxiety House (Bulimba, anxiety-focused) and North Brisbane Psychologists (northside). Treat these as places to compare, not as ranked winners.

Session fees in the city often land in the mid-$200s to mid-$300s before rebate, so the out-of-pocket cost varies a lot. Ask about gap fees and whether they have any lower-gap or bulk-billing options if cost is a barrier.

If you share a rough suburb (or northside/southside/CBD/west) and the main issue you want help with, I can help you narrow the search criteria and what to ask on a first call. I’m not a substitute for a clinician or your GP.

If you are in crisis or unsafe right now, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, or emergency services on 000.

Great question. Here’s a concise, up‑to‑date starting list of reputable therapy options in Brisbane, grouped by situation, plus how to choose.

If you want low- or no‑cost options or public services

• 1300 MH CALL (1300 642 255): Queensland Health’s 24/7 triage line that links you to your closest public mental health service (useful for intake, advice, or urgent next steps). (qld.gov.au)
• Metro North Mental Health (north of the river): Community and hospital-based assessment, treatment and specialist programs; “Contact us” page lists service hubs. (metronorth.health.qld.gov.au)
• Metro South Addiction and Mental Health Services (south of the river): Public adult services; you can also reach services via 1300 MH CALL. (metrosouth.health.qld.gov.au)
• Medicare Mental Health Centres (Head to Health/Medicare initiative): Free, walk‑in style community support for adults; care here does not count toward your Better Access session limit. (medicarementalhealth.gov.au)

If you’re 12–25 (youth-focused)

• headspace centres (free/low‑cost, mental health + related supports). Brisbane sites include:
• headspace Woolloongabba (66 Annerley Rd). (headspace.org.au)
• headspace Nundah (1264 Sandgate Rd; near Nundah Station). (headspace.org.au)
• headspace Inala (PCYC Inala, 37 Swallow St). (headspace.org.au)

Low-cost university training clinics (supervised)

• UQ Psychology Clinic (St Lucia): Individual, couple, family therapy by provisionally registered psychologists under senior supervision; typically lower fees; not eligible for Medicare rebates because clinicians are provisional. (clinic.psychology.uq.edu.au)
• Griffith University Psychology Clinic (Mt Gravatt): Listed in local referral guides as another Brisbane option with reduced fees. (medical-school.uq.edu.au)

Find a private psychologist (by specialty, location, fee)

• APS “Find a Psychologist” directory: Search Brisbane by issue (e.g., anxiety, trauma), modalities, languages, telehealth. (psychology.org.au)
• Always check registration on AHPRA (national regulator) before booking. (ahpra.gov.au)

How Medicare support works in 2026 (so you can budget)

• As at February 6, 2026, Better Access rebates cover up to 10 individual and 10 group therapy sessions per calendar year, with referrals typically written for up to 6 sessions at a time under a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan (then review for more). (www1.health.gov.au)
• From November 1, 2025, the government also tied plans/referrals more closely to your usual GP or MyMedicare‑registered practice to improve continuity (rebate eligibility depends on these referral rules). (health.gov.au)
• New Medicare Mental Health Check In (launched January 1, 2026) offers free, self‑guided online support for people 16+. This is separate from therapy rebates. (health.gov.au)

How to choose quickly

• Fit and expertise: Use APS directory filters for your main concern (e.g., CBT for anxiety, trauma-focused therapy/EMDR, ADHD, couples/family). Shortlist 2–3 clinicians. (psychology.org.au)
• Credentials: Confirm general or clinical psychologist registration on AHPRA. (ahpra.gov.au)
• Costs and rebates: Ask fees, wait times, whether they offer telehealth, and what gap you’ll pay after the Medicare rebate (if applicable). APS explains typical out‑of‑pocket costs. (psychology.org.au)
• Access/urgency: If you need faster access, call 1300 MH CALL or a Medicare Mental Health Centre while you wait for private appointments. (qld.gov.au)

Want me to shortlist 3–5 services? Tell me:

• Your Brisbane suburb (or north/south side)
• Age (for youth vs adult services)
• Main goals (e.g., anxiety, trauma, ADHD, couples)
• Modality preference (in‑person vs telehealth), budget/Medicare, and any language or cultural needs

If you’re in crisis right now (thinking about harming yourself or someone else), call 000 or go to the nearest emergency department. You can also ring 1300 MH CALL (24/7) for immediate public mental health support in Queensland. (qld.gov.au)

If you’re looking for therapy in Brisbane, a practical short list to consider includes clinics with registered psychologists, in-person and telehealth options, and services that match your needs such as individual therapy, couples counselling, child/adolescent support, or assessments.¹²³⁴⁸

A few Brisbane services from the results that may be worth checking are:

• Brisbane Centre for Psychology — offers individual counselling, couples counselling, children and adolescent counselling, veterans services, EAP, NDIS support, and assessments; located in Stafford and Stafford Heights.⁸¹⁶
• Brisbane City Psychologists — has inner-city locations on Queen Street and Felix Street, with in-person and online appointments available.⁵¹⁵
• Ahead Psychology — based in Stafford and offers counselling, employee assistance programs, supervision, and personal coaching, plus telehealth.³
• Rethink Psychology — a Greenslopes clinic offering individual therapy in-person and via telehealth.⁶
• Mind & Body Psychology — located in Red Hill.¹⁰
• Todays Psychology — based in Brendale and offers weekday, after-hours, and before/after-school appointments.⁷
• Integrated Wellness Clinic — provides psychology and counselling services in Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, and Gold Coast, with evidence-based therapy for anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, and relationship issues.¹
• Takes Care Specialist Centre — offers adult, child, and adolescent psychology, couples counselling, telehealth, and home-visit counselling for some clients.⁴
• Acacia Psychology — offers face-to-face, phone, and secure video sessions, with 24/7 administrative support.⁹
• Therapy Near Me — listed as a Brisbane City therapy service with a central location and phone booking.¹⁸

If you want the best fit, start by narrowing your choice by:

• Location — inner city, northside, southside, or telehealth
• Type of support — individual, couples, child/adolescent, trauma, EAP, or assessments
• Availability — after-hours, weekend, or regular weekday appointments
• Therapy approach — for example CBT, ACT, EMDR, DBT, or schema therapy, which some clinics advertise.⁸⁹¹

For example, if you want a clinic with broad service options, Brisbane Centre for Psychology and Takes Care stand out; if you want central-city convenience, Brisbane City Psychologists is a strong option; and if you prefer telehealth flexibility, Ahead Psychology or Acacia Psychology may suit you.⁸⁴⁵³⁹

If you want, I can also turn this into a best options by suburb list or a therapy type comparison for Brisbane.

Here's an overview of well-regarded psychology services in Brisbane you could consider for therapy, based on location, specialty, and approach:

CBD / Inner City

• Centre for Human Potential (CFHP) –

Located in Brisbane's CBD on Edward Street, this practice has an extensive team of clinical psychologists, registered psychologists, and counsellors . They offer full counselling support for children aged 12 and up , plus couples and individual therapy.

• Brisbane City Psychologists (Bcpsyc) –

A collective of 25+ mid-to-late career psychologists in Brisbane . You can book without a GP referral, though Medicare rebates apply with one . Their Clinical Psychologists have completed a minimum of eight years of university training and hold an area of practice endorsement from AHPRA .

North Brisbane

• Brisbane Centre for Psychology –

Experienced psychologists supporting a wide range of issues including PTSD, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, and eating disorders , with assessments for neurodevelopmental conditions such as ADHD and autism .

• Brisbane Mind & Body Clinic –

Every psychologist is AHPRA-registered, with a multidisciplinary team including a clinical psychologist and nutrition practitioners . Their psychologists draw on EMDR, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Schema Therapy , and they offer telehealth for those outside the immediate area.

Milton / Inner West

• Brisbane ACT Centre –

Psychologists using modern approaches to help with depression, anxiety and more , with a specific focus on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Mindfulness . Expertise spans couples/relationships, adult and adolescent anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, chronic pain, and high suicide risk cases .

Toowong / Southside

• My Psych Clinic –

A clinical psychology private practice serving Toowong and Eight Mile Plains , that tracks your progress each session and emphasizes the therapeutic relationship as the strongest predictor of positive outcomes .

Spring Hill

• Brisbane Counselling Centre –

Operating since 1989, assisting Brisbane residents to have peaceful and healthier lives , offering services across individual counselling, anxiety, depression, PTSD, couples, and family therapy. Note: same-day appointments can be challenging due to volume, but weekend slots are available .

Directories Worth Browsing

• Psychology Today (Brisbane listings) –

A searchable directory of verified psychologists in Brisbane, available in-person or online , letting you filter by specialty, gender, and approach.

• Word of Mouth / RateMDs – Community review platforms where you can see real client feedback (e.g.,

reviews describing practitioners as "compassionate," making clients "feel safe," and listening "with sensitivity and empathy" ) to help match a therapist's style to your needs.

Tips for Choosing

• 1.Check Medicare rebate eligibility – many clinics note you can claim rebates with a GP Mental Health Care Plan.
• 2.Match specialty to your needs – e.g., trauma/EMDR, AC

For therapy in Brisbane, start by clarifying whether you want a general psychologist, clinical psychologist, or another mental health professional — then use a GP and the main directories to narrow it down. Based on the search results, here’s what to consider.

1. Start with your GP Your GP can recommend a psychologist, rule out other issues, and write a Mental Health Treatment Plan so you can claim Medicare rebates. You don’t need a referral to see a psychologist, but you do need one to get Medicare rebates. healthdirect.gov.au beyondblue.org.au

2. A specific Brisbane option: Hively Health Hively Health is an East Brisbane clinic that also offers telehealth. It supports adults, teenagers, and children, with therapy approaches including CBT, ACT, DBT, EMDR, and play-based therapy. They also do assessments such as ADHD, autism, learning, IQ, cognitive, memory, and functional behaviour assessments. Their team includes general psychologists, clinical psychologists, child/adolescent psychologists, and behaviour support practitioners, and they describe their approach as trauma-informed, strengths-based, and neurodivergent-affirming. hively.com.au

They say you don’t need a referral to book, but a GP referral and Mental Health Treatment Plan can make you eligible for Medicare rebates. They accept private and NDIS clients, and support clients across Brisbane City, South Brisbane, Kangaroo Point, East Brisbane, and surrounding suburbs. Contact: 15 Didsbury St, East Brisbane QLD 4169; phone 1300 11 4769; email alliedhealth@hively.com.au. hively.com.au

3. How to find other Brisbane psychologists You can search for a psychologist through the Australian Psychological Society’s directory, or a clinical psychologist through the Australian Clinical Psychology Association’s directory. You can also ask your GP or use healthdirect’s service finder. healthdirect.gov.au

When choosing, think about:

• Whether you need therapy or assessment.
• Whether you want a general psychologist or clinical psychologist.
• Whether you need a clinician experienced with children, teens, trauma, neurodivergence, or specific therapies.
• Whether you need Medicare, NDIS, WorkCover, or private billing.

Hively Health says its intake process helps match you with a psychologist who best suits your needs. hively.com.au

4. Other therapy options Counsellors and psychotherapists can help with mental health conditions, relationships, grief, or addiction, but Medicare rebates aren’t available for them. You can find them via the Australian Register of Counsellors and Psychotherapists or the Australian Counselling Association’s directory. Accredited mental health social workers and occupational therapists can also treat mental health conditions, but you’ll generally need a GP referral to claim Medicare. beyondblue.org.au

5. Cost and access Medicare covers some of the cost of seeing a psychologist or psychiatrist if you have a referral or Mental Health Treatment Plan. Private health insurance may not cover the costs unless you’re in hospital, so ask about fees before making an appointment. healthdirect.gov.au

If you need medication or complex psychiatric assessment, a psychiatrist requires a GP referral. healthdirect.gov.au beyondblue.org.au

In short: Hively Health is one Brisbane service to consider, especially if you want a clinic with therapy, assessments, telehealth, and neurodivergent-affirming care. For a wider choice, use the APS/ACPA directories and ask your GP for a recommendation and Medicare referral.

When choosing a psychology practice in Brisbane, the right option depends on your specific focus (e.g., general anxiety, trauma, neurodivergence, couples therapy), your location, and your budget.

Here are some of the most reputable services and clinics across Brisbane, organized by category:

1. Established Private Clinics (By Region)

Brisbane CBD & Inner Suburbs

• The Centre for Human Potential (CFHP) (CBD): Located on Edward Street, this is one of Brisbane’s largest and most established central practices. They have a diverse team offering therapy for adults, adolescents, couples, and the LGBTQIA+ community, handling everything from stress and depression to complex trauma.
• Haven Psychology & SVM Psychology (Milton): Well-regarded inner-west practices known for trauma-informed approaches, EMDR, and affirming care for diverse and neurodivergent clients.

Northside & Inner North

• Brisbane Centre for Psychology (Inner North): A boutique practice that provides evidence-based therapies (CBT, ACT, EMDR, Schema Therapy) for adults, teens, and couples, as well as neurodevelopmental assessments (ADHD, ASD).
• Psychology Consultants (Newmarket & Morningside): A long-running, multi-clinician practice on both sides of the river, offering specialized clinical psychology care across the lifespan.
• Hardwick Psychological Services (Ashgrove): Offers therapy for mood disorders, perinatal mental health, and trauma, as well as comprehensive neuropsychological assessments.

Southside & Bayside

• Benchmark Psychology (Upper Mount Gravatt): One of the largest and most well-regarded practices on Brisbane's southside. Their team includes dozens of psychologists specializing in areas like OCD, anxiety, trauma, relationship counselling, and adolescent care.
• Michelle Barratt Psychology (Toowong & Manly West): Provides therapy for children, teens, individuals, and couples dealing with anxiety, relationship distress, and life transitions.

2. Low-Cost & Affordable Options (University Clinics)

If you don't have private health insurance or out-of-pocket costs are a barrier, Brisbane’s university clinics offer high-quality therapy on a sliding scale (typically $20–$40 per session). Therapy is provided by provisional psychologists completing postgraduate training under the direct supervision of experienced senior clinical psychologists:

• UQ Psychology Clinic (St Lucia)
• QUT Psychology and Counselling Clinic (Kelvin Grove)
• Griffith Psychology Clinic (Mount Gravatt)

(Note: A GP referral is generally not required for university clinics, but waitlists can fluctuate with academic terms).

3. Specialized & Youth Services

• Headspace (Ages 12–25): Free or low-cost mental health support for young people, with clinics in Brisbane City, Taringa, Woolloongabba, Chermside, Capalaba, and Meadowbrook.
• Eating Disorders Queensland (EDQ) (South Brisbane): Specialized community-based support and psychological services for individuals with disordered eating and body image issues.
• Brisbane DBT Centre (Spring Hill): Dedicated Dialectical Behaviour Therapy programs for individuals managing intense emotional dysregulation or Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD).

Practical Steps to Get Started:

• 1.Get a Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP): Book an extended appointment with your GP. An MHCP subsidizes up to 10 individual psychology sessions per calendar year through Medicare, significantly lowering your out-of-pocket cost.
• 2.Filter by Modality: If you already know what style of therapy works best for you (e.g., EMDR for trauma, ERP for OCD, or ACT/CBT for general anxiety), filter practitioner bios on clinic websites to find someone trained in that area.
• 3.Use Directory Matchers: If you have specific criteria (suburb, gender, neurodiversity-affirming, or cultural background), the APS Find a Psychologist directory (`psychology.org.au`) and Psychology Today Australia allow you to search verified Brisbane practitioners by postcode and specialty.

There is no single “best” psychology service in Brisbane—the right fit depends on what you want help with, location, cost, and whether you click with the therapist. These are practical places to start.

Start here

• Your GP. Ask for a Mental Health Treatment Plan. With that, Medicare can rebate part of the fee for up to 10 individual sessions a calendar year (currently about $149 with a clinical psychologist and about $102 with a registered psychologist—confirm current rates). You can still book privately without a referral, but you will not get the Medicare rebate.
• Official directories (filter by suburb, issue, language, telehealth, and fees):
• Australian Psychological Society – Find a Psychologist (many listings in Brisbane)
• Psychology Today – Brisbane

Check that any psychologist is AHPRA-registered.

Established clinics people often consider

These are multi-clinician practices, so you can often be matched to someone with relevant experience rather than relying on one person.

Private session fees in Brisbane commonly land roughly in the $220–$350 range before rebate, so the out-of-pocket gap varies a lot. Ask about gap fees, cancellation policy, and wait times before you book.

Lower-cost and free options

• UQ Psychology Clinic (St Lucia): Therapy by provisional psychologists under supervision. Published fees are about $40 a session, or $25 concession. No Medicare rebate (and it is not for crisis care). Phone 07 3365 6451; clinic.psychology.uq.edu.au. Waitlists are common.
• Medicare Mental Health Centres: Free walk-in support—no referral, appointment, or Medicare card required. Call 1800 595 212 to find the nearest centre and hours. Northside examples include Lutwyche (566 Lutwyche Rd); southside includes Logan and Redlands. Details: medicarementalhealth.gov.au.
• PHN-funded short-term therapy if you face cost or access barriers (for example Brisbane MIND in the north, or the Brisbane South Psychological Therapies Program). Your GP or 1800 595 212 can check eligibility.
• Employer EAP, private health extras, WorkCover, DVA, NDIS, or Victim Assist may cover sessions depending on your situation.

If you need help sooner

• Emergency: 000
• Queensland public mental health triage (24/7): 1300 MH CALL (1300 642 255)
• Lifeline (24/7): 13 11 14 (text 0477 13 11 14)
• Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
• Kids Helpline (ages 5–25): 1800 55 1800
• Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467

How to choose

Match the clinician to the issue (anxiety, trauma/EMDR, couples, ADHD assessment, perinatal, neurodiversity, language, or LGBTQIA+ affirming care), then trial one or two sessions. A good working relationship matters more than the clinic brand. Telehealth is widely available if travel or scheduling is hard.

If you share your suburb, what you want help with (for example anxiety, trauma, couples, ADHD), and whether cost or Medicare is important, I can narrow this further.

Here are well-regarded, EMDR-capable options in Brisbane. I’ve prioritised clinics and clinicians who explicitly state EMDR training and/or EMDRAA/EMDRIA accreditation, and I included official directories so you can verify credentials.

Accredited/verified directories

• EMDR Association of Australia (EMDRAA) “Find a therapist” — search Brisbane for accredited practitioners. This is the primary Australian registry. (emdraa.org)
• EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) directory — includes Brisbane-based members (e.g., listing for Kirsten Mackenzie in Wilston). (emdria.org)

Brisbane clinics/clinicians offering EMDR

• A&U Psychology (Windsor) — led by an EMDRAA Accredited Consultant (Dr Ursula Oertel) who also provides EMDR supervision; clinic focuses on trauma/EMDR. (aupsych.com.au)
• Brisbane Mind & Body Clinic (Bowen Hills) — EMDR offered by trained psychologists; in-person and telehealth. (brisbanemindbodyclinic.com.au)
• Brisbane City Psychologists (CBD) — offers EMDR among evidence-based treatments; listed on Qld Health’s service finder. (qfinder2.health.qld.gov.au)
• Brisbane Counselling Centre (Spring Hill, Wickham Tce) — multiple trauma-focused clinicians; example: Janice Fittell notes 20+ years using EMDR. (qfinder2.health.qld.gov.au)
• Connect the Dots Psychology (Spring Hill, Wickham Tce) — EMDR therapy offered; central location. (connectthedotspsychology.com)
• Dr Jane Zhao-O’Brien (Brisbane CBD, Wickham Tce) — clinical psychologist integrating EMDR with other evidence-based approaches. (psychologistbrisbanecbd.com)
• Psychology Today’s Brisbane listing — broader directory you can filter to “EMDR.” Useful for scanning availability and focus areas. (psychologytoday.com)

How to choose

• Check accreditation: Prefer EMDRAA-accredited clinicians (Practitioner/Consultant levels). (emdraa.org)
• Match to your needs: Ask about experience with your specific goals (e.g., PTSD/C-PTSD, phobias, perinatal, first responders, dissociation).
• Practicalities: wait times, fees, Medicare rebates with a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan, telehealth vs in-person, and location (many EMDR providers cluster around Wickham Terrace/Spring Hill). (fire.qld.gov.au)

If you share a few preferences (north/south side, in-person vs telehealth, budget/Medicare, any therapist gender or specialty preferences), I can narrow this to a short, best-fit shortlist and give you first‑contact steps.

There is no single official ranking of the “best” EMDR providers in Brisbane. Fit, accreditation level, experience with your specific issues, and availability usually matter more than marketing claims. The most reliable starting point is the EMDR Association of Australia (EMDRAA) directory, which lists trained members and distinguishes higher levels of credentialing.

How to choose

EMDRAA membership levels matter:

• Member — completed recognised EMDR basic training.
• Accredited Practitioner — additional clinical hours, consultation, and competency requirements.
• Accredited Consultant or Accredited Trainer — further experience; consultants can supervise other EMDR therapists and are often among the most experienced clinicians.

Prefer someone registered with AHPRA (psychologist, clinical psychologist, or eligible GP) or an equivalent body if you want Medicare rebates under a Mental Health Treatment Plan. Ask about experience with your presentation (for example, single-incident PTSD, complex trauma, perinatal trauma, first responders, or children), whether they are accepting clients, and their approach to preparation and stabilisation before processing.

Search the directory yourself at emdraa.org/find-a-therapist by suburb (Brisbane, Spring Hill, Bowen Hills, Mt Gravatt, etc.) and filter for telehealth or new clients if needed. Psychology Today and similar directories can supplement this, but EMDRAA status is the clearer quality marker for EMDR specifically.

Notable Brisbane options

These stand out from public information because of long EMDR experience, specialist focus, higher EMDRAA credentials, or positive client feedback. Availability changes, so confirm directly.

Brisbane Counselling Centre (Spring Hill) Long-running practice that has offered EMDR since 1989, with multiple EMDR-trained registered psychologists. Examples include Tracey Donkin (more than 30 years using EMDR), Janice Fittell (over 20 years of EMDR), and Natascha Madden (EMDR since 2009; EMDRAA member). They report seeing new clients relatively quickly and have public reviews specifically praising EMDR work. Location: Level 7, 87 Wickham Terrace. Phone: 07 3831 4452. Website.

EMDR Brisbane (Bowen Hills) Independent clinic focused on trauma and anxiety, led by psychologist Anthony Mogridge (practising over 14 years; EMDR as a main approach since 2019). Works with adults and older adolescents across PTSD, complex and childhood trauma, anxiety, and related issues. Fees around $215 per 50-minute session, with Medicare rebates under a Mental Health Care Plan; also works with WorkCover and NDIS. Locations include 9/30 King Street (entrance on Machinery Street), Bowen Hills. Phone: 0468 891 614. Website.

Renee Brown / Renee Louise Psychology (Spring Hill) Clinical psychologist and EMDRAA Accredited Practitioner, with additional training (including Flash Technique, EMDR 2.0, and protocols for OCD/phobias and addictions). Focus includes complex PTSD, attachment difficulties, and related issues; offers standard and longer sessions, in person and telehealth, and has been listed as taking new clients. Website.

Sarah O’Flaherty / Connect the Dots Psychology (Spring Hill) Clinical psychologist and EMDRAA Accredited Practitioner. Integrates EMDR with other depth-oriented approaches; areas include trauma, anxiety, perinatal issues, and grief. Has offered a short complimentary consult to check fit and has been listed as taking new clients. Website.

Dr Janette McMahon / Aspire Psychology (Brisbane area, including Arana Hills) Clinical psychologist and EMDRAA Accredited Trainer (also an EMDR Institute facilitator/trainer). Extensive experience with PTSD, complex trauma, dissociative disorders, first responders, and defence members/veterans. One of the more senior EMDR clinicians in the region; contact to confirm client availability. Phone: (07) 3161 0629. EMDRAA profile.

Rachael Ambler (Mt Gravatt) Clinical psychologist and EMDRAA Accredited Consultant, practising since 1999 with a long-standing private practice and a special interest in trauma. Higher credential level; check current capacity for new clients. Website.

Dr Annie Fonda (Spring Hill) GP with a focus on psychological medicine and an EMDRAA Accredited EMDR Practitioner, with particular interest in perinatal mental health and trauma. Sees patients by appointment (limited days). Watkins Medical Centre, 225 Wickham Terrace. Phone: 07 3145 0440. Website.

Other options worth checking

• Bloom Well-being (Capalaba) — trauma-focused clinic stating EMDRAA-accredited therapists; serves greater Brisbane including the Redlands.
• Individual practitioners listed on EMDRAA in Spring Hill, Carindale, Wynnum, and surrounding suburbs (search the directory for current status).

Practical notes

• A GP Mental Health Treatment Plan can unlock Medicare rebates for eligible psychologists and some other providers (rebates apply to the session, not specifically to “EMDR”). Typical private fees in Brisbane are often in the low-to-mid $200s per session, with out-of-pocket costs after rebate varying.
• Ask whether the clinician is an Accredited Practitioner (or higher) rather than only “EMDR-trained,” and whether they have experience with your type of trauma.
• Therapeutic relationship and a careful assessment of readiness matter as much as the modality. EMDR is not the right first step for everyone; good practitioners spend time on stabilisation.

For the most current list of accredited practitioners near you, use the EMDRAA Find a Therapist tool. A GP or psychiatrist can also help with referrals if you want coordinated care.

Based on current search results, here are some well-regarded EMDR therapy providers in Brisbane:

Established Clinics with Multiple EMDR-Trained Practitioners

Brisbane Counselling Centre

Brisbane Counselling Centre has offered EMDR therapy in Brisbane since 1989, with nine EMDR-trained psychologists and new clients usually seen within one to two weeks.

The registered psychologists at this Centre include experienced EMDR practitioners who support adults and adolescents affected by PTSD, trauma-related difficulties and distressing experiences.

Brisbane Mind & Body Clinic (Bowen Hills)

EMDR is currently provided by three of their psychologists.

Their experienced EMDR-trained psychologists work with adults and teens (16+) at their Bowen Hills clinic and via telehealth across Queensland. They're also experienced with clients who have ADHD, autism or other neurodivergent presentations alongside trauma.

True North Psychology (Wilston)

True North Psychology has several psychologists trained in delivering EMDR in Brisbane, able to assist with single-incident trauma, complex or developmental trauma, phobias and PTSD symptoms.

EMDR Brisbane

EMDR Brisbane is an independent private psychology clinic based in Brisbane specialising in the treatment of trauma and anxiety.

Their clinic draws upon experiences from a wide range of clinical approaches, combining EMDR with other therapeutic approaches for tailor-made interventions.

Mindful Psychology (Woolloongabba) Offers EMDR delivered by psychologists, with staff able to help match you to the best psychologist for your needs.

Brisbane Centre for Psychology

Psychologists here provide EMDR as part of a compassionate, trauma-informed approach, taking time to understand your experiences and working at a pace that feels right for you.

Individual Practitioners (via directories)

Directories like Psychology Today and TherapyTribe list additional individual EMDR-trained clinicians in Brisbane, including practitioners specializing in areas like high-masking autism/ADHD assessment combined with trauma work, and relational/neuropsychotherapy approaches.

A few tips for choosing:

• Since "best" is subjective, it's worth checking whether a provider offers Medicare rebates (via a Mental Health Care Plan), NDIS, or private health rebates — several clinics above mention supporting these.
• Consider whether you want in-person (locations vary: Woolloongabba, Wilston, Bowen Hills, etc.) or telehealth.
• Look for psychologists specifically listed as EMDR-trained/accredited (via EMDRAA – the EMDR Association of Australia) rather than just offering it as one of many modalities.
• Booking a brief initial consult with 2–3 options can help you find the right therapeutic fit, since rapport matters significantly in trauma therapy.

Would you like me to narrow this down by a specific suburb, whether you need Medicare/NDIS support, or telehealth vs in-person preference?

When seeking EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) therapy in Brisbane, it is best to look for psychologists or mental health clinicians accredited with the EMDR Association of Australia (EMDRAA).

Several well-regarded clinics and practitioners in Brisbane specialize in EMDR for trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and phobias:

1. Dedicated & Specialist Clinics

• EMDR Brisbane (Bowen Hills)
• Focus: A private practice specifically built around trauma and anxiety treatment utilizing EMDR.
• Services: Treatment for PTSD, complex trauma, panic, phobias, and WorkCover claims. They provide both in-person sessions and telehealth across Queensland.

• A&U Psychology (Windsor)
• Key Practitioner: Led by Dr. Ursula Oertel, a Clinical Psychologist and EMDRAA Accredited Consultant and Supervisor.
• Focus: Complex trauma, dissociation, grief, chronic anxiety, and performance issues. Being an accredited consultant, Dr. Oertel also trains and supervises other EMDR therapists across Australia.

• True North Psychology (Wilston)
• Focus: A team of registered and clinical psychologists experienced in EMDR.
• Specialties: Differentiated pathways for single-incident trauma (e.g., car accidents, medical trauma), complex/developmental trauma, and phobias.

• Brisbane Counselling Centre (Spring Hill)
• Focus: One of Brisbane’s longest-running psychological practices, with a dedicated team of EMDR-trained psychologists.
• Convenience: Located near the CBD with typically shorter wait times for new assessments.

• Brisbane Mind & Body Clinic (Bowen Hills)
• Focus: Trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming psychologists who combine EMDR with somatic and nervous system regulation strategies.
• Best for: Individuals navigating trauma alongside ADHD, autism, or high nervous system dysregulation.

2. Notable EMDR Educators & Senior Specialists

• Aspire Psychology (Dr. Janette McMahon): Dr. McMahon is a senior clinical psychologist and an approved EMDR Institute trainer who runs advanced EMDR masterclasses across Australia. She specializes in PTSD, CPTSD, and treatment for first responders and veterans.

Key Things to Consider Before Booking

• 1.EMDRAA Accreditation: While many psychologists complete intro workshops in EMDR, an EMDRAA Accredited Practitioner or Consultant has completed rigorous supervision, practical hours, and continuing education. You can search directly on the EMDRAA "Find a Therapist" Directory.
• 2.Medicare Rebates: If you obtain a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP) from your GP, you can claim Medicare rebates for up to 10 psychology sessions per calendar year.
• 3.Telehealth Availability: Most of these Brisbane clinics offer virtual EMDR using specialized bilateral software (e.g., on-screen visual bars, bilateral audio, or self-tapping) if you cannot travel to the inner-north suburbs.

The strongest Brisbane EMDR options in the search results are Brisbane Counselling Centre, Brisbane Mind & Body Clinic, and Bloom Well-being because they explicitly advertise EMDR services, list local Brisbane clinics, and provide practitioner details or intake information.²³¹⁵⁶

• Brisbane Counselling Centre: Offers EMDR in Spring Hill near the Brisbane CBD, says it has provided EMDR therapy since 1989, and lists multiple EMDR-trained psychologists with different areas of focus.²
• Brisbane Mind & Body Clinic: Offers EMDR in Bowen Hills and via telehealth Australia-wide, with EMDR provided by three psychologists and a trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming approach.³
• Bloom Well-being: Offers EMDR in Brisbane and online, with clinicians in Brisbane listed as accepting new clients and EMDRAA accreditation noted on its EMDR page.¹⁶

Other Brisbane-area providers that appear relevant include Brisbane Centre for Psychology / North Brisbane Psychology, True North Psychology, Qualia Psychology, Eunity, and Honni Hayton Counselling, but the search results provide less detail about clinician numbers, fees, or availability than the three providers above.^87121115

If you want, I can narrow this to the best provider for your situation based on factors like CBD convenience, trauma/PTSD expertise, Medicare rebates, telehealth, or current availability.

EMDR Therapy Providers in Brisbane

Based on the search results, here are three Brisbane clinics offering EMDR therapy, each with a somewhat different focus and setup.

1. Brisbane Centre for Psychology

brisbanecentre4psych.com.au

This clinic positions EMDR as part of a "compassionate, trauma-informed approach," working with adults, adolescents, and children experiencing trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and other emotional difficulties. Their psychologists have completed specialised EMDR training, and the clinic emphasises pacing therapy to suit the individual — integrating other evidence-based approaches where beneficial.

Practical details:

• Locations: 10 Minimine Street, Stafford QLD 4053; 71A Wilgarning Street, Stafford Heights QLD 4053
• Telehealth: Secure telehealth appointments available
• Phone: 1300 325 414
• Email: reception@brisbanecentre4psych.com.au
• Hours: Mon–Thu 8:00am–6:00pm, Fri 8:00am–5:00pm, Sat by appointment 8:00am–1:00pm

Their team includes Director and Clinical Psychologist Dr Rosemary Patton, along with Carolyn Ireland and Narissa Miller.

2. CFHP Psychology (Brisbane)

cfhp.com.au

CFHP describes EMDR as primarily used to treat PTSD, but notes it can also support recovery in depression, substance abuse and addiction, panic disorder and chronic anxiety, and eating disorders. The clinic stresses creating a "caring and comfortable environment" for clients processing difficult experiences.

Practical details:

• Location: Level 8 / 288 Edward St, Brisbane
• Phone: 07 3211 1117
• Session length: Typically 50–60 minutes, or longer depending on the treatment plan
• Team: A large roster of therapists including Saki Lentze, Mitchell Chikwakukire, Eugene Lin, Dr Atholl Murray, Ravi Tewari, Jeremy Vernon, Michelle Scott, Biyanka Dhother, Dr Delaney Skerrett, and Lisa Kunde
• Their enquiry form lets you specify preferred location, psychologist gender, and areas of concern

3. Renee Louise Psychology (Spring Hill)

reneelouisepsychology.com.au

This is a solo clinical psychology practice with the most detailed EMDR-specific credentials in the results. The practitioner is an Accredited EMDR Practitioner with EMDRAA (the EMDR Association of Australia), offering EMDR both as a standalone treatment and integrated with Schema Therapy, ACT, and CBT.

Additional training listed:

• EMDR Therapy Basic Training
• Structural Dissociation & Masterclass
• Flash Technique (for highly disturbing memory content)
• DeTUR protocol (for addictions and compulsions)
• EMDR 2.0
• The Flashforward Procedure (for OCD, phobias, panic, and future-oriented fears)

Practical details:

• Location: Ladhope Chambers, Suite G02, 131 Wickham Terrace, Spring Hill, Brisbane (by appointment only)
• Session formats: Standard 50-minute, extended 75-minute, and intensive 90-minute+ sessions
• Email: hello@reneelouisepsychology.com.au
• Text: +61 488 774 565

How to Choose

A few things worth weighing up from these listings:

• Credentialing: If accreditation matters to you, Renee Louise Psychology explicitly states EMDRAA accreditation — a useful benchmark to ask other providers about.
• Session length and intensity: Options range from standard 50-minute sessions to 90-minute-plus intensives, which can matter for how quickly you work through material.
• Specialisation: CFHP and Renee Louise Psychology both list applications beyond PTSD (addictions, OCD, panic, eating disorders), while Brisbane Centre for Psychology emphasises a broad, integrated trauma-informed approach across age groups.
• Accessibility: Brisbane Centre for Psychology offers both in-person (Stafford) and telehealth options, which may suit you if travel is a barrier.

A good next step is to contact two or three of these providers, ask about their EMDR training and accreditation, and see which one feels like the best fit for your situation.

Thanks for reaching out—happy to help. To make sure I’m pointing you to the right places, which part of Brisbane are you in (e.g., CBD, Northside, Southside, Logan, Ipswich), and do you prefer in‑person or telehealth? Any preferences like low-cost, LGBTQIA+‑affirming, youth, couples, trauma-focused, or culturally specific care?

Good options in Brisbane you can contact now

• If you need urgent help
• 000 for immediate danger.
• 1300 MH CALL (1300 642 255) — Queensland’s 24/7 mental health access line; they triage and link you to local public services. (qmhc.qld.gov.au)
• Lifeline 13 11 14 (call) or 0477 13 11 14 (text). (qmhc.qld.gov.au)

• Public referral hubs and walk‑in support
• Medicare Mental Health Centres (Brisbane North PHN) — free, walk‑in support across North Brisbane/Moreton Bay. (brisbanenorthphn.org.au)
• 1300 MH CALL (above) can also refer you into your local public mental health team. (qld.gov.au)

• Low‑cost university clinics (supervised trainee clinicians; good value, often shorter waits)
• UQ Psychology Clinic (St Lucia): therapy and counselling; phone (07) 3365 6451. (clinic.psychology.uq.edu.au)
• QUT Psychology & Counselling Clinic (Kelvin Grove): affordable counselling and family therapy; telehealth available. (healthclinics.qut.edu.au)

• Community not‑for‑profits
• Relationships Australia (QLD): individual, couple, and family counselling; multiple Brisbane locations. (relationships.org.au)
• Centacare Family & Relationship Services (Brisbane): individual and family counselling, including family‑law support. (centacare.com)
• Anglicare Southern Queensland: counselling across Greater Brisbane; central intake via 1300 114 397. (qnada.org.au)

• Youth and families
• headspace Woolloongabba (12–25): in‑person and online support; phone (07) 3249 2222. (headspace.org.au)

• Low‑ or no‑cost psychology via PHN programs
• Brisbane MIND (Brisbane North PHN): improves access to primary mental healthcare for people who face barriers; ask your GP about referral pathways. (brisbanenorthphn.org.au)

Helpful statewide directories

• Queensland Health “Know the facts” and service-finder pages list helplines and ways to get support or referrals in QLD. (health.qld.gov.au)

If you share your suburb, budget, and any preferences (modality, specialty, identity‑affirming needs), I can shortlist specific clinics or practitioners near you and outline likely costs and wait times. Also, a quick visit to your GP to discuss a Mental Health Treatment Plan can help with referrals and rebates.

Best Counselling Services in Brisbane for Mental Health Support

Since I don't know your exact suburb, here's a mix of well-regarded private clinics and free/low-cost public options across Brisbane.

🏥 Private Counselling & Psychology Clinics

1. Brisbane Counselling Centre

Since 1989, Brisbane Counselling Centre has been a vital hub of mental health treatment for the valuable members in our communities.

If you are struggling with trauma, anxiety, grief, depression, relationships, stress or need help with the demands of working in the health industry or with your professional career, therapists at Brisbane Counselling Centre are here to understand, support you and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs. It's frequently ranked among the top-rated services in the city.

2. Brisbane ACT Centre

Brisbane ACT Centre offers unique collaborative care between you and your therapist, emphasising ongoing learning at a pace that works for you, taking time to understand your true priorities and helping you take purposeful life steps every day. It uses Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and has strong client testimonials.

3. Vision Psychology Highly rated, offering support for panic attacks, anger, eating and dissociative disorders, family and workplace conflict, suicide and self-harm, PTSD, depression, and generalised anxiety.

4. Centre For Human Potential (CFHP) – Brisbane CBD

The Centre For Human Potential (CFHP) is a Brisbane psychology centre that has been supporting people to reach their potential since 2007, with a clinic on Edward Street, in the heart of Brisbane CBD.

Their team provides clinical psychology services for individuals, couples, adolescents, families, those with addiction or eating disorders, and those needing help navigating gender dysphoria or cultural integration.

They're open six days a week (Monday–Saturday), with after-work appointments available.

5. Life Supports Counselling

Life Supports counsellors and psychologists work with individuals, couples and families all across Brisbane, to develop healthier relationships and improve psychological wellbeing.

Medicare rebates and bulk billing are available for some office-based, online, and phone counselling sessions, as well as affordable flat rate fees.

🌏 Free / Low-Cost & Specialist Services (Queensland-wide)

• Medicare Mental Health service –

people who are unable to visit a Medicare Mental Health Centre in person can call the Medicare Mental Health phone service to speak to a trained professional or receive a referral to a suitable mental health service.

• 1300 MH CALL –

call 1300 MH CALL (1300 642 255) to find your local public mental health, alcohol and other drug service.

• Queensland Transcultural Mental Health Centre –

a specialist state-wide service that works to ensure people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds get appropriate telephone counselling.

• Diverse Voices –

a peer counselling service for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people and their families and friends.

• PANDA –

supports women, men and families across Australia affected by anxiety and depression during pregnancy and in the first year of parenthood.

• Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service –

counselling and group programs for Australian veterans, peacekeepers, and their families.

🚨 If You Need Urgent Help

In a crisis where you need immediate help, call:

When looking for counselling and mental health support in Brisbane, the best choice depends on whether you are seeking private clinical care, low-cost community options, or specialised youth services.

1. Highly Regarded Private Counselling & Psychology Practices

• Centre for Human Potential (CFHP) – Brisbane CBD
• Focus: Individual counselling, anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy, and couples counselling.
• Notable for: A central CBD location with a large multidisciplinary team offering both in-person and telehealth sessions.
• Little Window – Yeronga (Southside)
• Focus: Trauma-informed, neuro-affirming, and holistic counselling for adults, teens, and couples.
• Notable for: Known for a warm, sanctuary-style environment ("therapy that feels like home") rather than a sterile clinical setting.
• Brisbane Counselling Centre – Spring Hill
• Focus: General mental health, burnout, grief, relationship distress, and trauma/EMDR therapy.
• Notable for: One of Brisbane’s longest-running practices (established 1989) with experienced psychologists and counsellors.
• Benchmark Psychology – Upper Mount Gravatt (Southside)
• Focus: Evidence-based therapies (CBT, ACT, Schema Therapy) for anxiety, depression, OCD, and stress.
• Notable for: A large clinical team that matches you with a practitioner tailored to your specific issues and communication style.
• Brisbane Centre for Psychology – Newmarket (Inner North)
• Focus: Mood disorders, PTSD, neurodiversity assessments, and life transitions.
• Notable for: Boutique clinic with a compassionate, personalised approach for individuals and couples.

2. Affordable & Low-Cost Counselling (University Clinics)

If cost is a primary concern, Brisbane’s major universities run training clinics where sessions are conducted by provisional psychologists completing postgraduate clinical degrees under the supervision of senior clinical psychologists. No GP referral is required, and fees are typically between $20 and $40 per session:

• UQ Psychology Clinic (St Lucia)
• QUT Psychology and Counselling Clinic (Kelvin Grove)
• Griffith University Psychology Clinic (Mount Gravatt)

3. Subsidised & Community Mental Health Services

• Medicare Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP):

Visit any GP in Brisbane to discuss your mental health. If eligible, your GP can prepare an MHTP, which provides Medicare rebates for up to 10 individual sessions per calendar year with an accredited psychologist, counsellor, or mental health social worker.

• Head to Health / Medicare Mental Health Centres:

Federally funded clinics offering free, walk-in mental health support and referrals without needing a doctor’s referral (locations include Indooroopilly and Logan).

• Headspace (Ages 12–25):

Offers free to low-cost mental health counselling for young people. Brisbane locations include the CBD, Taringa, Woolloongabba, Nundah, Inala, and Capalaba.

• Relationships Australia Queensland:

Provides individual, couples, and family counselling with fees often adjusted on a sliding scale based on income.

4. Immediate & Crisis Support

If you need urgent assistance or someone to talk to right now:

• 1300 MH CALL (1300 64 22 55): Queensland Health’s 24/7 confidential mental health access line.
• Lifeline: 13 11 14 (24/7 crisis support)
• Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 (24/7 counselling)
• Emergency: Call 000 or present to the nearest hospital emergency department.

There’s no single “best” counselling service—it depends on your location, budget, and what you need. But for Brisbane, these are well-established options and support pathways.

If you need urgent help

• Emergency: call 000 or go to your local hospital emergency department. qmhc.qld.gov.au
• 24/7 mental health triage: call 1300 MH CALL (1300 642 255). It’s a confidential Queensland public mental health telephone triage service and can link you to your nearest public mental health service. qmhc.qld.gov.au
• 24-hour health assessment/referral: call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84). qmhc.qld.gov.au
• Crisis counselling: Lifeline 13 11 14; Beyond Blue 1300 224 636. qmhc.qld.gov.au

Brisbane counselling options

1. Brisbane Counselling Centre — private practice

A long-established Brisbane option since 1989, with psychologists who provide evidence-based treatment. They help with trauma, anxiety, grief, depression, relationships, stress, and professional/work issues. They offer face-to-face and telehealth appointments. Contact: (07) 3831 4452 Location: Level 7, 87 Wickham Tce, Brisbane QLD 4000 brisbanecounsellingcentre.com.au

2. Anglicare Southern Queensland — low-cost/community counselling

Anglicare offers professional confidential counselling at no cost or a nominal fee, including:

• Alcohol and drug counselling
• Family counselling
• Domestic and family violence counselling

Their counsellors are described as trained, trauma-informed professionals, though they do not prescribe medication. Contact: 1300 114 397, weekdays 9am–5pm. anglicaresq.org.au

Important Medicare note: Medicare rebates mainly apply to mental health care from eligible psychologists and some social workers under a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan through the Better Access initiative. Counsellors themselves generally can’t bill Medicare directly, but Anglicare’s counselling is often funded through government/community programs, so many clients pay no fee or only a low contribution. anglicaresq.org.au

3. Medicare Mental Health phone service — free advice/referral

If you’re unsure where to start, call 1800 595 212 to speak to a trained professional or get a referral. Available Monday to Friday, 8.30am–5.00pm (except public holidays). qmhc.qld.gov.au

You can also use Find a mental health service or Medicare Mental Health to search your local area. qmhc.qld.gov.au

Other useful support lines

• Lifeline: 13 11 14
• Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636
• MensLine Australia: 1300 789 978
• 13 YARN: 13 92 76
• SANE Australia: 1800 187 263
• headspace: 1800 650 890
• QLife: 1800 184 527
• Griefline: 1300 845 745
• Alcohol and Drug Information Service: 1800 177 833

qmhc.qld.gov.au

If you tell me your suburb and whether you want free/low-cost, private, telehealth, or youth-specific support, I can narrow it down further.

There isn’t one universally “best” counselling service in Brisbane—the right option depends on urgency, age, cost, and what you’re dealing with (anxiety, relationships, trauma, and so on). The most reliable starting points are free public services and established community providers, then a private psychologist or counsellor if you want ongoing therapy.

If you need support now

• Lifeline: 13 11 14 (24/7 crisis support and short-term counselling)
• Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 (24/7 phone and online chat)
• 1300 MH CALL (Queensland public mental health triage): 1300 642 255 (24/7; links you to local public services)
• Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467
• Kids Helpline (ages 5–25): 1800 55 1800
• 13YARN (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people): 13 92 76
• In an emergency, call 000

Free or low-cost face-to-face options in Brisbane

These are often the best first step because cost and referrals are not barriers.

Medicare Mental Health Centres (free walk-in support; no appointment or GP referral required). Staff include mental health professionals and peer workers. Call 1800 595 212 (weekdays) to confirm the nearest open centre and hours. Known Brisbane-area sites include:

• Inner North (Lutwyche): 566 Lutwyche Road
• Strathpine, Caboolture, Redlands (Cleveland), Logan, and Ipswich

headspace (free or low-cost for ages 12–25; mental health, alcohol and other drugs, work/study). No referral needed.

• Woolloongabba: 66 Annerley Road — (07) 3249 2222
• Nundah: 1264 Sandgate Road

Relationships Australia Queensland — individual, couple, and family counselling, including anxiety, grief, trauma, and relationship issues. Sliding-scale fees (often around $35 concession / $75 standard for relationship counselling; confirm when you call). Phone 1300 364 277. A central site is Spring Hill (159 St Pauls Terrace). They also offer LGBTIQA+ (Rainbow) counselling and domestic and family violence support.

Anglicare Southern Queensland — family and couples counselling that is often free or a small co-payment (up to about 12 sessions in funded programs). Locations include Eight Mile Plains, Strathpine, Stafford, Cleveland, and others. Phone 1300 114 397.

Lifeline Brisbane also offers face-to-face counselling at its Bowen Hills centre (117 Gipps Street), plus the 24/7 phone line.

Private counselling and psychology

Private sessions in Brisbane commonly cost roughly $150–$320 before rebates, depending on whether you see a counsellor, general psychologist, or clinical psychologist. With a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan, Medicare usually rebates part of the fee for eligible psychologists and some mental health social workers (often up to 10 sessions a calendar year). Counsellors who are not Medicare-eligible generally don’t attract a rebate, though private health extras sometimes do.

Established practices people often start with include Brisbane Counselling Centre (Spring Hill / Wickham Terrace; long-running individual, relationship, and trauma work) and larger psychology groups listed on directories. “Best” is mostly about fit with the individual therapist, not the clinic brand.

How to choose well

• 1.See your GP for a Mental Health Treatment Plan if you want Medicare rebates, or walk into a Medicare Mental Health Centre if you want free help sooner.
• 2.Search Psychology Today Australia (filter by Brisbane suburb, issue, and cost) or healthdirect’s service finder.
• 3.Check registration: psychologists via AHPRA; counsellors via ACA or PACFA.
• 4.Ask about wait times, telehealth, specialties (trauma, ADHD, couples, perinatal, cultural safety), and the out-of-pocket gap before booking.
• 5.It’s normal to try more than one person. A good match matters more than a high review score.

If you share your suburb, age range, and whether cost, relationships, trauma, or youth support matters most, I can narrow this further.

If you want counselling for mental health support in Brisbane, the best starting points are a GP referral, Queensland Health’s 1300 MH CALL, or a local counselling/psychology clinic that matches your needs and budget.¹⁸¹³¹

A few Brisbane options from the results that may be worth checking:

• Brisbane Livewell Clinic in Wavell Heights offers counselling for individuals, couples, and families, with private consultation rooms and free off-street parking.¹
• CFHP is a local psychology and counselling clinic in Brisbane; you can book by form or phone on (07) 3211 1117.³
• Wellbeing in Mind has Brisbane-area clinics in Kenmore and Woolloongabba and offers therapy for adults.¹⁴
• Eunity provides counselling, psychology, trauma therapy, EMDR, telehealth, and recovery support across Brisbane and surrounding communities.Eunity
• Wesley Mission Queensland offers mental health services in Brisbane, including individual therapy, counselling, and group psycho-education.⁵

If you want the most appropriate service, match the provider to the type of help you need:

• General mental health support: a counsellor, psychologist, or GP.¹⁸
• Trauma or PTSD-related support: a clinic offering EMDR or trauma therapy, such as Eunity.Eunity
• Public or crisis support: call 1300 MH CALL (1300 642 255) for Queensland public mental health services, or Triple Zero (000) if it’s an emergency.¹⁸
• Low-cost or Medicare-supported care: ask whether the provider offers a Mental Health Treatment Plan pathway through a GP.Eunity¹⁸

Typical costs in Brisbane vary widely, but listing data suggests therapy sessions are often around $100 to $250, with some services lower or higher depending on qualifications, location, and session type.¹⁰⁴

If you want, I can narrow this down to the best Brisbane counsellors near your suburb, bulk-billing/low-cost options, or trauma/anxiety/depression specialists.

Here are Brisbane services that specifically work with postpartum/postnatal anxiety (perinatal mental health). I’ve grouped hospital-based, specialist psychology clinics, and directories/helplines so you can choose what fits.

Hospital and specialist inpatient/day programs

• Brisbane Centre for Postnatal Disorders (Belmont Private Hospital, Carina) — dedicated mother–baby inpatient unit for postnatal depression and perinatal anxiety, with specialist clinical staff. (belmontprivate.com.au)

Specialist perinatal psychology clinics (outpatient)

• Centre for Perinatal Psychology (multiple Brisbane locations incl. Red Hill and Brendale) — national network focused on pregnancy/postnatal mental health; Brisbane clinicians list perinatal anxiety support. (centreforperinatalpsychology.com.au)
• Lotus Health and Psychology (Brisbane) — perinatal psychology service; explicitly treats postpartum anxiety and related concerns. (lotushp.com.au)
• Maia Mothers Collective (Ascot) — women’s health clinic with psychologists supporting perinatal anxiety/depression; accepts GP Mental Health Care Plans for Medicare rebates. (maiamothers.com.au)
• Wickham Terrace Clinical Psychology (Spring Hill) — offers perinatal mental health treatment alongside anxiety care. (wickhamterraceclinicalpsychology.com.au)
• Brisbane Family Psychology — includes perinatal and infant mental health services alongside anxiety treatment. (brisbanefamilypsychology.com.au)

Find-a-provider directories (useful to search by suburb/telehealth)

• COPE (Centre of Perinatal Excellence) Directory — filter by Brisbane; example listing: Spilt Milk Psychology (Brisbane), which notes “Postnatal Anxiety.” (qld.gov.au)
• Queensland Health “Find a perinatal mental health service” — curated list of QLD perinatal supports across public and community services. (qld.gov.au)

Helplines and care navigation (free, can connect you locally)

• PANDA National Perinatal Mental Health Helpline — 1300 726 306; perinatal anxiety/depression support. Current government page confirms number; QLD listing notes hours Mon–Sat 9:00 am–7:30 pm AEST. (health.gov.au)
• ForWhen care navigation — 1300 24 23 22; Mon–Fri 9:00 am–4:30 pm; connects Queensland parents to local perinatal mental health services. (forwhenhelpline.org.au)

Public hospital psychology and parenting support

• Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital — psychology service notes support for pregnancy/parenthood-related psychological issues (ask your GP/midwife for referral). (metronorth.health.qld.gov.au)
• Queensland Health parenting supports — includes Ellen Barron Family Centre (Brisbane) and links to counselling options for new parents. (qld.gov.au)

If you want, tell me:

• Your suburb (or willingness to travel) and preference for in-person vs telehealth
• Whether you have or want a GP Mental Health Care Plan for Medicare rebates
• Any preferences (e.g., mother–baby options, evening appointments, trauma-informed care)

If you’re in crisis or feeling unsafe: in Queensland you can call 1300 MH CALL (24/7 mental health access line), or emergency services on 000. For immediate perinatal support, PANDA 1300 726 306 is available, and ForWhen can connect you to local care on weekdays. (health.qld.gov.au)

Based on my search, here are several Brisbane-based counselling and psychology services that specialize in postpartum (postnatal) anxiety treatment:

Specialized Perinatal Mental Health Services

1. Brisbane Centre for Postnatal Disorders (BCPND) – Belmont Private Hospital, Carina This is a more intensive clinical option: Brisbane Centre for Postnatal Disorders (BCPND) is a specialised 10-bed unit offering treatment and support to women with mental health concerns in the perinatal period. It offers one on one counselling, group counselling, and telehealth, with areas of expertise including postnatal anxiety, adjustment disorder, perinatal loss, and birth trauma.

Established in 1991, it has been a leading provider of specialised care for women experiencing perinatal mood disorders for over 30 years. A referral is required for all new patients, though eligible veterans with a DVA White Card can access fully funded mental health care with no diagnosis or proof of service-related cause required.

2. Restored Wellbeing This Brisbane practice offers both online and in-clinic sessions. Treatment is provided by experienced, specialised clinicians for Postnatal Depression (PND), Perinatal Anxiety, Birth Trauma, Parenting Stress, Bonding and Adjustment issues in addition to Perinatal Grief and Loss. They note that issues that commonly arise during the postnatal period include postnatal depression, postnatal anxiety, birth trauma, and grief & loss, along with changes in relationships and emotional changes such as feeling overwhelmed or a loss of control.

3. Three Little Birds Perinatal Psychology (Morningside & Red Hill) This practice has locations at 612A Wynnum Road, Morningside and 62 Waterworks Road, Red Hill , serving surrounding suburbs. They note that anxiety disorders during the perinatal period can include generalized anxiety, panic attacks, and OCD, which may manifest as excessive worry about the baby's health or intrusive thoughts, and their Brisbane-based counsellors are skilled in providing strategies to manage these symptoms effectively. They also support fathers, recognizing postnatal depression and heightened anxiety in fathers as well.

4. Centre for Perinatal Psychology This network has psychologists located in Brisbane offering counselling for antenatal depression & anxiety, PND, postnatal anxiety, infertility, loss, and attachment issues for infants aged 0-3.

5. Nest Psychology Offers support for depression or anxiety during pregnancy and after birth , with both in-clinic and home visit options, and encourages partner involvement in the therapeutic process.

6. Bloomera (via Psychology Today directory) A Brisbane-based psychologist practice where the practitioner has worked extensively with clients presenting with depression and anxiety and has a particular interest in perinatal psychology including infertility, pregnancy, prenatal and postpartum. They offer Medicare rebates with a GP referral/Mental Health Treatment Plan.

Free Support Helplines (Not counselling clinics, but useful complements)

• PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia):

Contact PANDA on 1300 726 306 if you or your partner are feeling depressed or struggling after the birth of your child; the confidential service is available Monday to Friday, 9am–7pm.

• Parentline:

Call 1300 301 300 for advice and counselling about any issue affecting you as a parent, available from 6am

Several Brisbane counselling services explicitly list postpartum/postnatal anxiety treatment as a specialty, including Restored Wellbeing, Nest Psychology Brisbane, Brisbane Centre for Postnatal Disorder, and Mothers Clinic.⁹⁸⁵²

• Restored Wellbeing in Red Hill offers postnatal services such as PND, birth trauma, and anxiety, and says it treats postnatal anxiety during the postnatal period and early years of parenting.⁹
• Nest Psychology Brisbane in Toowong is a perinatal and family psychology practice; its “new parents” page specifically mentions help for depression or anxiety after the birth (postnatal depression/anxiety).³⁸
• Brisbane Centre for Postnatal Disorder at Belmont Private Hospital lists postnatal anxiety among the conditions it treats, along with postnatal depression, birth trauma, and antenatal anxiety.⁵
• Mothers Clinic offers perinatal psychology and says it provides support for postpartum anxiety and birth trauma recovery, with virtual appointments across Australia.²

Other Brisbane-area providers that may also fit, depending on whether you want in-person or telehealth, include Bloom Health Clinic in Cleveland, which offers specialized treatment for postpartum depression and anxiety,¹⁰ and Earth & Womb in Bardon, which supports pregnancy, postpartum, parenting and trauma and is listed on Psychology Today as working with anxiety and postnatal-period challenges.¹³²

If you want, I can narrow this to:

• in-person only
• bulk-billing/Medicare rebate options
• northside/southside Brisbane
• psychologists vs counsellors

Several Brisbane-based and Brisbane-serving services specialise in postpartum (postnatal) anxiety. Based on the search results, here are the main ones:

Brisbane-based clinics

Restored Wellbeing — a perinatal psychology clinic with locations in Ashgrove (240 Waterworks Road) and Red Hill (2 Windsor Rd), Brisbane. Their clinicians assess and treat perinatal mental health issues including perinatal anxiety, postnatal depression (PND), birth trauma, bonding and attachment issues, pregnancy stress, and adjustment to NICU/SCN. They also offer online and phone consultations for clients throughout Australia, and note they can convert clinic appointments to telehealth if getting in is difficult. Appointments are typically 50 minutes. They explicitly state they cannot provide crisis support. restoredwellbeing.com.au

Online services available to Brisbane clients

Mothers Clinic Australia — offers perinatal psychology online for mums in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and across Australia. Their focus areas include postpartum anxiety, postnatal depression, birth trauma recovery, pregnancy stress and anxiety, grief and loss counselling, and trauma-focused therapy. One of their practitioners, Jaclyn Potts, is an AHPRA-registered psychologist and EMDR therapist with a special interest in trauma and supporting women in the perinatal stage, trained in DBT, TI-CBT, CBT, EMDR, ACT and Motivational Interviewing. mothersclinic.com.au

Centre for Perinatal Psychology — provides postnatal counselling for postnatal anxiety, postnatal depression, OCD, adjustment to parenthood, birth trauma, unsettled or sickly babies, and attachment issues. They describe exploring how to meet your own needs while meeting your baby's, and note that safe and effective treatments are available. Their listed reasons for seeking help in the first year postpartum include feeling overwhelmed, irritability or guilt, lack of enjoyment in parenting, and difficulty bonding. centreforperinatalpsychology.com.au

What to look for

When choosing a provider, it's worth checking that the practitioner is:

• AHPRA-registered (psychologists) — noted explicitly for the Mothers Clinic practitioner
• Trained in perinatal-specific modalities such as CBT, trauma-informed CBT, EMDR, ACT or DBT
• Able to offer telehealth if leaving the house with a newborn is difficult

A note on urgency

Restored Wellbeing notes that if you or a family member may be experiencing postpartum psychosis, this requires urgent attention and treatment, and directs people to the Centre of Perinatal Excellence (COPE) for further information. restoredwellbeing.com.au

If you're in immediate distress, contact emergency services (000) or a crisis line rather than a general clinic, since these services provide ongoing therapy rather than crisis support.

Would you like help comparing these options — for example, in-person versus telehealth, or psychologists versus counsellors?

Several Brisbane services specialise in perinatal mental health, including postpartum (postnatal) anxiety. “Perinatal” covers pregnancy through roughly the first year after birth. Options range from outpatient counselling and psychology to peer support and specialist hospital units for more severe symptoms.

Dedicated outpatient counselling and psychology practices

• Three Little Birds Perinatal Psychology — A dedicated perinatal clinic with psychologists, counsellors, and mental health social workers trained in perinatal depression and anxiety, birth trauma, adjustment to parenting, and related issues. Locations include Morningside, Red Hill, and West End; telehealth and limited home-visiting support are also offered. Phone: 07 3899 1137. Website: threelittlebirdsperinatal.com.

• Restored Wellbeing — A perinatal psychology and counselling clinic in Red Hill focused on antenatal and postnatal anxiety and depression, birth trauma, adjustment, bonding, and related parenting challenges. Clinicians include psychologists and social workers; in-clinic and telehealth sessions are available. Phone: 07 3506 0234. Website: restoredwellbeing.com.au.

• Gidget House Greenslopes (Gidget Foundation Australia) — Queensland’s first Gidget House, based at Greenslopes Private Hospital. It provides specialist perinatal counselling for depression, anxiety, and related concerns. With a GP referral and Mental Health Treatment Plan, up to 10 sessions can be Medicare bulk-billed (no out-of-pocket cost). Face-to-face and telehealth options are available. Phone: 1300 851 758. Website: gidgetfoundation.org.au.

• Maia Mothers Collective — Psychology services in Ascot specialising in perinatal anxiety and depression, birth trauma, adjustment to motherhood, and related issues. No referral is required to book. Address: 89 Beatrice Terrace, Ascot. Phone: 0478 582 148. Website: maiamothers.com.au.

• Early Start Australia — Offers perinatal and postnatal counselling (including anxiety and adjustment difficulties) at its Carina and Springfield clinics, plus telehealth. No referral is required. Website: earlystartaustralia.com.au.

• Centre for Perinatal Psychology network — A group of psychologists specialising in the perinatal period (including postnatal anxiety and depression). Brisbane practitioners include those based at Nest Psychology in Toowong and others listed on the site. Website: centreforperinatalpsychology.com.au.

Other private practitioners (for example, developmental or clinical psychologists listed via COPE or Psychology Today directories) also treat postnatal anxiety; many encourage bringing babies to sessions.

Specialist hospital and higher-intensity services

These are typically for more significant or complex symptoms and usually require a referral:

• Brisbane Centre for Postnatal Disorders (BCPND) at Belmont Private Hospital (Carina) — A specialised mother-and-baby unit offering treatment for postnatal anxiety, postnatal depression, and other perinatal mental health concerns. Multidisciplinary team; private health cover and referral are generally required.

• Catherine’s House for Mothers, Babies and Families (Mater, South Brisbane) — Queensland’s integrated perinatal mental health centre. It includes an inpatient mother-baby unit for severe anxiety, depression, and other diagnoses in the first year after birth, plus day programs and parent support services. Phone: 07 3163 2299. Referral required. Website: mater.org.au.

Peer and community support

• Peach Tree Perinatal Wellness — Free, peer-led programs (including the Sunshine Parenting Program) for parents experiencing or at risk of postnatal anxiety and depression. Centres in areas such as Nundah and Mount Gravatt, plus online options. Website: peachtree.org.au.

How to find and access help

• ForWhen (1300 24 23 22, Monday–Friday 9 am–4:30 pm) is a free national navigation line that connects expectant and new parents to local perinatal mental health services.
• PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia): 1300 726 306.
• The COPE directory (cope.org.au) lists specialised perinatal providers by location and expertise (including postnatal anxiety).
• A GP can assess symptoms, provide a Mental Health Treatment Plan for Medicare rebates on psychology sessions, and refer to public or private services as needed.

Availability, wait times, fees, and eligibility change, so contact services directly to confirm current details and whether they suit your situation. This is not a complete list and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you or someone else is in crisis, call 000 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Several counselling, psychology, and mental health services in Brisbane specialize in perinatal and postpartum anxiety, ranging from free community services and private practices to specialized hospital units:

1. Free & Subsidised Perinatal Counselling Services

• Gidget House (Greenslopes Private Hospital & Telehealth)
• Focus: Free individual psychological counselling specifically for expectant and new parents experiencing perinatal depression and anxiety.
• Access: Services are bulk-billed under Medicare (a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan is required).
• Web: gidgetfoundation.org.au

• Peach Tree Perinatal Wellness
• Focus: A Brisbane-based, peer-led organization dedicated to parents navigating emotional challenges, perinatal anxiety, and depression. They offer parent wellbeing centers (North, South, and Moreton Bay), support groups, and connections to allied health practitioners.
• Web: peachtree.org.au

2. Specialist Private Perinatal Psychology Clinics

• Nest Psychology (Brisbane)
• Focus: Psychologists who specialize specifically in perinatal mental health, treating postnatal anxiety, birth trauma, intrusive thoughts/postnatal OCD, and adjustment difficulties.
• Services: Clinic consultations and video telehealth.
• Web: nestpsychology.com.au

• Nurtured Thoughts Psychology (Graceville)
• Focus: Dedicated postnatal mental health practice using evidence-based therapies (such as CBT and ACT) to treat postpartum anxiety, panic, birth trauma, and repetitive intrusive worries.
• Web: nurturedthoughtspsychology.com.au

• Restored Wellbeing
• Focus: Clinicians specializing in antenatal and postnatal mental health, including postnatal anxiety, birth trauma, and emotional adjustment to early parenthood. Offers clinic-based and telehealth appointments.
• Web: restoredwellbeing.com.au

• Centre for Perinatal Psychology (Brisbane Network)
• Focus: A national collective of perinatal and infant psychologists, with several clinicians based across Brisbane. They specialize purely in conception, pregnancy, postpartum anxiety/depression, and infant bonding.
• Web: centreforperinatalpsychology.com.au

3. Hospital & Intensive Care Services

• Brisbane Centre for Postnatal Disorders (Belmont Private Hospital, Carina)
• Focus: A specialized 10-bed unit and outpatient/day-program provider for women experiencing moderate to severe postnatal anxiety, depression, or mother-infant attachment challenges.
• Web: belmontprivate.com.au

• Mater Mothers’ Hospital – Parenting Support Centre / Perinatal Mental Health (South Brisbane)
• Focus: Offers multidisciplinary clinical support, including parent-infant mental health, adjustment support, and targeted outpatient services for parents who birthed at Mater or live within catchment.

Immediate Support & How to Start

• 1.See a GP: Schedule an appointment with a GP for a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP). This provides Medicare rebates for up to 10 psychology sessions per calendar year (or makes services like Gidget House completely free).
• 2.PANDA National Helpline: Call 1300 726 306 (Mon–Sat) for free, confidential phone counselling and navigation to local perinatal specialists.
• 3.COPE Directory: Browse the cope.org.au directory to search accredited Brisbane psychologists by postcode.

Based on my search, I can't pinpoint one single "best" counsellor since ratings are spread across several directories and platforms rather than one authoritative source — but here are the top-reviewed options that consistently come up for Brisbane:

1. The Hart Centre Positioned as professional relationship counselling in Brisbane backed by a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee, with 83,000+ happy clients. They operate across multiple Brisbane suburbs, including a large northside cluster, and match you with a specific practitioner based on your situation rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.

2. Bark.com-listed counsellors (e.g., Lachlan, Trevor) Bark aggregates verified client reviews, and the average rating for relationship and marriage counsellors on Bark is 4.96 out of 5. Individual reviews are glowing — one client said "Lachlan honestly saved our relationship... We are so grateful for him helping us." Another described a counsellor named Trevor as having "a gentle and effective way of allowing us a couple to work through our issues with effective skills."

3. ThreeBestRated.com.au Top 3 picks Their vetted shortlist (based on a 50-point inspection of reviews, complaints, and reputation) names PBR Coaching, Integrating Awareness, and Power of Change Counselling & Coaching as the top Brisbane marriage counselling practices.

4. Brisbane North Counselling (Francis Berg) Noted for having more than two decades of experience, and being one of the few certified Imago relationships counsellors in the area. A nice bonus — unlike other options for marriage counselling in Brisbane, they're open on weekends, making them a good fit for people with limited weekday availability.

My honest take: Since "best reviews" is subjective and scattered across platforms, I'd suggest:

• Check Google Reviews directly for any of these names/practices (search results don't show live Google star ratings)
• Try Bark or Psychology Today's directory to compare multiple counsellors side-by-side and read verified client feedback
• If you want a guaranteed match, The Hart Centre offers a satisfaction guarantee and will pair you with someone suited to your specific situation (e.g., infidelity recovery vs. general communication issues)

Would you like me to search for something more specific — like a particular suburb, price range, or issue you're looking to address (e.g., infidelity, communication, premarital counselling)?

When choosing a relationship or marriage counsellor in Brisbane, the "best" fit typically comes down to finding a practitioner trained specifically in evidence-based couples modalities—most notably The Gottman Method (structured, skills-focused communication and conflict repair) or Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) (deconstructing defensive cycles and attachment wounds).

Several clinics and practitioners across Brisbane consistently receive high client reviews and community recommendations:

Top-Rated Relationship Counselling Clinics in Brisbane

1. Brisbane Centre for Attachment & Relationships (Morningside)

• Focus: Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), attachment repair, and relational dynamics.
• Reputation: Consistently praised for couples trapped in repetitive, escalating arguments. Their therapists act as "translators" between partners to get beneath defensive anger and address core attachment needs.

2. Heart of the Matter (Milton / Central)

• Focus: Gottman Method couples therapy, conflict management, and intensive "Couples Marathons".
• Reputation: Led by senior therapists like Jeremy, this practice has exceptional client feedback for offering practical, actionable frameworks rather than just unstructured talking. They are particularly recommended if you feel "gridlocked" or want fast, structured progress.

3. Brisbane Wellbeing Psychologists (Spring Hill)

• Focus: Psychology-led couples counselling, communication, and emotional attunement.
• Reputation: Well-regarded clinic in inner Brisbane. Practitioners like Christine Marsden receive strong recommendations for helping partners communicate openly without either party feeling blamed or ganged up on.

4. The Hart Centre (Multiple Brisbane Locations: CBD, Spring Hill, Chermside, etc.)

• Focus: Dedicated network specialising exclusively in relationship and marriage therapy, infidelity recovery, and sex therapy.
• Reputation: Holds thousands of reviews across Australia with an average rating above 4.9 stars. They screen and certify therapists specifically for couples counselling, matching you to a practitioner based on your suburb and specific relationship goals.

5. Bonnie Ingram Psychology (Brisbane / Telehealth)

• Focus: Gottman Method, trauma-informed care, and neurodiversity-affirming couples therapy.
• Reputation: Holds 5-star feedback from individuals and couples navigating emotional drift, trust repair, and neurodivergent (e.g., ADHD/Autism) relationship dynamics.

6. Nicole Mathieson Couples Counselling (Ashgrove)

• Focus: Relational Life Therapy, intimacy, desire discrepancies, and communication shifts.
• Reputation: Warm, holistic approach that blends somatic awareness with practical scripts and tools. Clients consistently note that sessions feel safe, grounded, and non-judgmental.

7. Relationship Connect (Carindale / Southside)

• Focus: Marriage breakdown, reconnection, and individual relational support.
• Reputation: Warm and approachable practice on the south side with strong reviews highlighting the compassionate, practical guidance of therapists like Marija and Lucia Girvin.

Tips Before Booking

• 1.Check for Neutrality: A common pitfall in couples counselling is one partner feeling that the therapist has "taken a side". Highly reviewed couples therapists maintain strict impartiality and focus on the dynamic between you, not placing blame on one person.
• 2.Confirm Qualifications: In Australia, anyone can technically call themselves a "counsellor." Ensure your practitioner is registered with AHPRA (for Psychologists) or PACFA / ACA (for Counsellors and Psychotherapists) and explicitly trained in Gottman or EFT.
• 3.Rebates: Medicare Mental Health Care Plans generally do not cover couples counselling (Medicare requires an individual clinical diagnosis), but many private health extras funds do cover couples sessions depending on your tier.

The best-reviewed relationship counsellor in the Brisbane results you provided appears to be Diane Cassee, because her site shows a 5.0 rating based on 12 reviews and multiple detailed positive testimonials.source: dianecassee.com.au The other Brisbane listing with visible review data is Bark’s Brisbane relationship and marriage counselling page, which shows an average rating of 4.95, but that is for the platform’s Brisbane counsellor listings overall rather than one named counsellor.source: bark.com

If you want the strongest option from the evidence shown here, I’d shortlist Diane Cassee first.source: dianecassee.com.au If you want a provider with a large Brisbane presence and multiple practitioners, Lighthouse Relationships and The Hart Centre both have Brisbane offices, but the search results you shared do not include comparable review scores for them.source: lighthouserelationships.com.ausource: thehartcentre.com.au

If you want, I can also compare the Brisbane counsellors by review score, location, and session price.

Based on the search results, Diane Cassee appears to have the strongest review evidence for relationship counselling in Brisbane. Her site shows an “Excellent 5.0” rating based on 12 reviews, with detailed client testimonials praising her as warm, safe, skilled, and effective for couples and individuals (dianecassee.com.au). She practises in Wynnum / Brisbane Bayside.

Another good option is Nicole Mathieson in Ashgrove, Brisbane, who has 15+ years’ experience and strong testimonials like “We finally feel like we’re on the same team again” and “the first time we’ve felt hopeful in months” — but the snippet does not show a numeric aggregate rating (nicolemathieson.com).

A directory like Talked lists Brisbane couples counsellors, but it doesn’t show review scores in the provided result (talked.com.au).

So: if “best reviews” means the highest visible rating, Diane Cassee is the standout from these results. If you’re closer to Ashgrove, Nicole Mathieson is a well-testimonial-backed alternative. For “near me,” check which suburb is practical for you and compare current Google reviews.

A few Brisbane relationship counsellors that consistently show strong public reviews and visibility. If you share your suburb, I can narrow this to “near you” and check the most recent Google ratings.

• Relationship Connect Counselling and Psychotherapy (East Brisbane, Stanely St E). Small practice often praised for a calm, welcoming approach; directory shows a 5.0/5 average across several reviews. (au.localitybiz.com)
• Chris Chicoteau (Bulimba). Individual couples therapist; recent local roundup lists him with top marks and highlights experience with infidelity and reconnection work. (thebestbrisbane.com)
• The Hart Centre (multiple Brisbane locations incl. Newstead). Large network offering relationship and intimacy counselling; featured as a top option in a 2026 Brisbane list. (thebestbrisbane.com)
• Brisbane North Counselling (Boondall). Imago‑trained counsellor; noted as a long‑running service with weekend availability and solid review scores. (thebestbrisbane.com)
• Relationships Australia Queensland (RAQ). Not-for-profit with offices across Brisbane; good for sliding‑scale options and classes in addition to counselling. (raq.org.au)

Notes and caveats

• “Best reviews” can change quickly and some directories aggregate or interpret Google scores. I can verify live Google ratings and review counts for your exact area once you tell me your suburb and how far you’re willing to travel.
• If you prefer Medicare rebates, you’ll generally need a registered psychologist via a GP Mental Health Plan; many “counsellors” aren’t Medicare‑rebated. If rebates matter, I can filter to psychologists who do couples work.

A few quick questions to tailor this:

• Which suburb in Brisbane are you in, and how far are you willing to travel?
• Any preferences for therapist gender, modality (e.g., Gottman, EFT, Imago), budget, weekend/evening availability, or LGBTQIA+ affirming/trauma‑informed focus?

There isn’t one clear winner. Public reviews for Brisbane relationship counsellors are split across Google, Bark, clinic sites and forums, and “best” depends heavily on fit, suburb and whether you want in-person sessions. These are the strongest signals I could find.

Strongest review volume

Lachlan Laing stands out on volume and consistency: 5.0/5 from 70 Bark reviews, with recent verified comments from couples who say he helped them stop repeating conflict and rebuild communication. He works mainly by Zoom Australia-wide rather than from a fixed Brisbane clinic, so he is a good option if online is fine. [¹](bark.com/en/au/slf/p/lachlan-laing/2o8Yg)

On Bark overall, Brisbane relationship and marriage counsellors average about 4.96. [²](bark.com/en/au/relationship-and-marriage-cou...)

Strong local options

Jeremy Gates at Heart of the Matter (Aspley, northside) is listed at 5.0 from 21 reviews (mostly Google) on a review aggregator. He specialises in couples and family work, including communication and longer “couple marathon” sessions. Address: 706 Robinson Rd W, Aspley. [³](getbirdeye.com.au/heart-of-the-matter-north-...) [⁴](hotm.com.au/jeremy-gates)

The Hart Centre is the largest specialist matching network in Brisbane (many suburbs, plus online). Trustpilot is about 4.5/5 from 31 reviews. They report that about 93% of clients said counselling was beneficial, and individual therapists such as Chris (Bulimba) and Deb (Spring Hill) get strong written praise. Useful if you want to be matched rather than pick one name. [⁵](trustpilot.com/review/thehartcentre.com.au) [⁶](thehartcentre.com.au/city/brisbane)

Relationship Connect (East Brisbane) shows 5.0 from 10 reviews on its booking page, with couples crediting Brian and colleagues for improving long marriages. Smaller sample, but consistently positive. [⁷](relationshipconnect.setmore.com)

A local roundup ranked Chris Chicoteau (Bulimba) first and gave him a perfect Google score, and Hart Centre clients also recommend him. Independently visible review counts for him are small, so treat that ranking as a lead, not proof. [⁸](thebestbrisbane.com/best-marriage-counsellin...)

What locals say (not star ratings)

On Reddit, Brisbane people have recommended Paulina Jakacka (Emotionally Focused Therapy, Attachment Brisbane), North Brisbane Psychology (Lutwyche), and several individual counsellors such as Neil Wiseman (southside), Loretta at Reset Therapy (Sherwood), Jenny Massey (Stones Corner) and Bonnie Ingram (Spring Hill). Those are personal recommendations, not large review sets. [⁹](reddit.com/r/brisbane/comments/1dwoehq/best_...)

Lower-cost option

Relationships Australia Queensland offers relationship counselling from about $75 a session, or $35 on concession (1300 364 277). Reviews are thinner in public listings, but it is a long-running not-for-profit with Brisbane locations. [¹⁰](raq.org.au/services/counselling/relationship...)

Practical next step

Search Google Maps for “couples counselling” plus your suburb and sort by rating and number of reviews. A 5.0 from 8 reviews is weaker evidence than a 4.8 from 80. Then book a short consult and check that both of you feel safe, that the person is registered (ACA, PACFA, or AHPRA if they are a psychologist), and that they use a couples method such as Gottman or Emotionally Focused Therapy.

If you share a suburb (or north/south/east/west) and whether you prefer in-person or online, I can narrow this further.