- Person-centred focus
- Practical tools
- Values-based work
About Philip
Philip "Phil" Burns is an ACA counsellor who focuses on helping people untangle stress, anxiety, relationship strain and codependency. He aims to create a calm, respectful space where people can look at their patterns and decide what matters most to them.
Phil asks questions that help clients notice strengths they may have overlooked. He encourages people to name their values and to try practical steps that fit their life. Sessions are tailored to the person rather than following a rigid template.
He draws on a range of evidence-based techniques to meet different needs. Phil pays attention to how past experiences shape current feelings and behaviours, and uses that understanding to plan small, achievable changes. This approach is useful for issues such as trauma, intimacy concerns, depression and communication problems.
Over eight years he has worked with a wide variety of presenting circumstances, including abandonment, attachment issues, blended family concerns, caregiver stress, and coping after separation. Phil aims to help people build confidence to face the challenges they bring to counselling.
People who choose him often want practical tools alongside reflective conversation. Phil works with each person to find what actually helps them in daily life. He believes that clients can reclaim a sense of joy and connection by learning skills that suit their situation.
How different approaches translate to online counselling
Phil blends several evidence-based techniques to suit the needs of each person. Person-centred work emphasises listening and helping clients name their values, which can support clearer decisions about relationships and codependency. Acceptance and commitment approaches help people notice difficult thoughts and feelings while taking small actions that align with what matters to them. Cognitive behavioural ideas focus on practical changes to thinking and behaviour to reduce anxiety and improve mood.Choosing the right mix of approaches is a collaborative process. Phil will discuss what feels most useful and try methods that match the client's goals, learning preferences and everyday commitments. That partnership helps shape a plan that can be adjusted over time.
Session formats are not specified in the biography, so confirm current options before booking. Online sessions can make it easier to fit counselling into a busy week, reduce travel time and allow shorter check-ins when needed. They also let people use strategies learned in sessions in the settings where they live and work, which can help translate insights into practical change.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Additional focus areas
Experience
8+ years
Credentials
Listed on profile
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What concerns does Phil commonly help with?
He supports people facing stress, anxiety, relationship strain, trauma and abuse, intimacy issues and depression, plus related areas such as codependency and communication problems.
What is his general therapeutic style?
Phil uses a person-centred style that combines practical skills with reflective conversation. He adapts sessions to the person and their goals rather than applying one fixed method.
How much experience does he have?
Phil has eight years of experience working with a range of presenting circumstances and concerns.
What credential does he hold and where is he based?
He is a member of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) and practises in Australia.
Which languages are sessions offered in?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can international clients work with him?
He does not accept international clients at this time.
How much do sessions cost?
Cost varies with location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription that can be cancelled at any time.
What is the process to begin working with him?
Start by selecting the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and then schedule according to the therapist's availability.
Profile details come from information the therapist supplied to BetterHelp. Credential and registration rules differ between the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia.