The 6 Best Counselling Services in Canberra That Actually Work
Life can feel a bit heavy sometimes. Whether you’re dealing with burnout or relationship changes, talking to an expert can completely turn things around.
I know how stressful it is to look for a safe space to share your thoughts. But the search for the right professional support shouldn’t feel like a chore.
That’s exactly why I looked around to find the best counselling services in Canberra for you. We checked out the top clinics in the capital to help you find a reliable spot to heal. Let’s explore these great options so you can get the support you need today.
How much does counselling cost in Canberra?
The cost for professional therapy sessions across the ACT (Australian Capital Territory) region ranges from $0 – $325+ depending on the practitioner qualifications and government rebate pathways.
| Service Type | Estimated Cost (AUD) | Rebate / Notes |
| Standard Counsellors | $120 – $200 per session | Average rates sit around $150 to $175 |
| Registered Psychologists | $190 – $325+ per hour | Out-of-pocket fees drop with a GP (General Practitioner) referral |
| Couples Therapy | $150 – $250 per session | Paid as private rates without Medicare rebates |
| Low-Cost Clinics | $0 – $40 per session | Supervised student clinics offer heavily discounted care |
1. DIPAC
Website: https://www.dipac.com.au/
Address: The Realm, Level 1/18 National Circuit, Barton ACT 2600, Australia
Contact: +61261983423
Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
DIPAC’s counselling services are designed to support individuals, couples and families through challenging periods with a compassionate and practical approach. Established in 2009 in the ACT, the practice offers face-to-face counselling in Canberra as well as secure online sessions across Australia.
The service covers a broad range of needs, including individual counselling for anxiety, stress, low mood and feeling stuck, along with couples and relationship counselling. Family counselling, sex and intimacy therapy, marriage and pre-marriage counselling, grief counselling and conflict-related services also form part of its counselling offering.
DIPAC takes a flexible approach to getting started, with 60-minute and 120-minute appointments available depending on the client’s needs. Sessions focus on what has brought the client in and what they would like to change, with the practice working with clients to agree on an appropriate approach and progress at a pace that feels right.
Couples have access to a more defined option through the Structured 7-Step Couples Counselling Programme, which provides a guided 60-day path focused on rebuilding intimacy and reconnecting. This structured programme is specifically designed for couples, while other appointments remain flexible based on individual circumstances.
Experience and professional background are another notable feature of the service, with DIPAC reporting around 25 years of experience across counselling, therapy and family mediation. Founder and Director Darleen Barton holds qualifications in counselling, psychology, mediation and conflict resolution, and is a nationally accredited mediator, while DIPAC also collaborates with Clinical Psychologists when comprehensive assessment, case formulation or coordinated care is needed.
Accessibility is supported through two appointment formats, with in-person sessions at The Realm in Barton and secure online counselling available across Australia. Online sessions run through a browser without requiring a download, and couples can participate from separate locations, which adds flexibility for clients who cannot easily attend in person.
DIPAC may be particularly suitable for individuals, couples and families seeking practical support around relationships, communication, anxiety, grief, intimacy, separation or family conflict. Its combination of specialised counselling services, a structured couples programme, professional experience and online access provides several ways for clients to approach their particular circumstances.
Customer Reviews
Honest and non-judgmental
Every time I see Darleen I walk away feeling understood, validated and NORMAL! She is amazing at her job. She just gets people! She even knows people she’s never met and can give advice on them/their behaviours etc. Darleen is honest and non-judgmental, warm and caring. It’s a tough job she does but she does it effortlessly.
- Naomi Keenan, Google Review
No hesitation in recommending her services
My visits to Darleen have made an amazing difference to how I view and react to my daily life. I now am feeling both comfortable and confident in my 70 year old skin. I have learnt new skills and I daily listen to a suggested link. Thank you Darleen. I would have no hesitation in recommending her services. Warmly Margaret
- Margaret Lindley, Google Review
2. Strategic Psychology
Website: https://strategicpsychology.com.au/
Address: Level 1, 121 London Circuit
Contact: 02 6262 6157
Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Navigating the mental health system can feel scary when you need to speak with someone right away. Thankfully, Strategic Psychology makes the whole intake process very smooth.
With their growing team of experienced clinicians on hand, you can usually secure an appointment within two weeks or less.
I really like that they provide comprehensive care. This covers everything from adult counselling to structured relationship therapy. They also assist with formal psychological assessments for things like ADHD and ASD.
The quality of counselling services here feels solid. They use current research to guide their sessions, which gives clients peace of mind.
However, take note that they’re completely closed on weekends. This means you’ll probably have a hard time booking a slot if you work full-time.
Customer Reviews
Really lovely experience
Fiona was really lovely and took the time to get to know my issues and concerns, and recommended the next best course of action to help me on my mental health journey plus some helpful advice for along the way. Thank you!
- Mal Bro | Google Review
Provided excellent service
Lovely clinic that greets you and has all the things to make the experience better. Helped me open discussions with my relationships and really helped me.
Thankyou to the team for providing an excellent service
- Hannah Flynn | Google Review
3. Umbrella Counselling
Website: https://umbrellacounselling.com.au/
Address: Suite 3, Floor 2/24 Marcus Clarke St
Contact: 1300 310 930
Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Umbrella Counselling focuses on delivering custom therapy tailored to your specific goals. They prioritise supportive service, providing reliable guidance that focuses on measurable changes.
Clients who come here say that they feel instantly validated by their inclusive atmosphere. Add to that the fact that every clinician holds a Master’s degree in counselling, and it’s easy to feel confident about their skills and experience.
I love that they offer great flexibility with options for both in-person visits and virtual sessions. This setup makes it so much easier to fit a session into a busy week.
Just keep in mind that family therapy isn’t always readily available. You’ll need to request it in advance, which takes extra time to set up.
Customer Reviews
Super supportive staff
Umbrella counselling has been amazing! Lyndsey has been super supportive and understanding throughout our whole journey. She assists a young Teen in my family, with a range of areas needing break downs and coping mechanisms.
Administration has been efficient and organised, bookings are easy. So thankful we found her, I’d highly recommend this company!
- Leanne Golding | Google Review
Very happy with her
I’ve been seeing Lyndsey for a while now, and I’m really happy with her. She listens carefully and gives me the space to express myself and talk things through. She always remembers what I’ve shared and follows my story as a whole, not just a snapshot of what js happening the . She has helped me navigate through grief and become more mindful of my own daily thoughts and behaviours. Even when there are a few weeks between sessions, I still feel understood and supported. I’m very happy with her and hope to continue working together for a long time.
- Mar Ghahramani | Google Review
4. Canberra Counselling Services – David Gorovic
Website: http://www.canberracounsellingservicesact.com.au/
Address: Unit 1 Level 1/44-52 Townshend St
Contact: 0432 299 673
Hours: Monday – Sunday: By appointment only
If you want to tackle your mental health goals without spending years in ongoing therapy, a structured approach might be exactly what you need. Canberra Counselling Services has a solution-oriented framework to help you do just that.
This clinic is managed by David Gorovic, a seasoned practitioner with forty years of clinical experience. Based on his track record, he can help people achieve real outcomes within just six to ten sessions.
He specialises in treating deep-seated anxiety disorders and workplace trauma using unique tools like hypnotherapy.
And I appreciate that he provides focused life coaching on top of that. This is helpful for clients who want to reach specific professional milestones.
However, because David operates as the sole lead psychologist, his booking availability fills up incredibly fast. You won’t be able to get a last-minute slot easily.
Customer Reviews
Life changing experience
David is an excellent counselor. His EMDR method of counseling has been quick and least
stressful method to desensitise heavy emotions. I have been seeking counseling from him for over 2 years and the experience has been life changing. I would highly recommend his service.
- Smilin John | Google Review
5. Life Supports Counselling
Website: https://lifesupportscounselling.com.au/
Address: 15 Tench St
Contact: 1300 735 030
Hours:
Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Saturday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Life Supports Counselling runs a widespread network of professional counsellors and psychologists across the region. They focus on evidence-based therapy tailored to your exact needs as an individual or family.
Their process feels seamless thanks to their intake staff, who make it feel completely stress-free and simple to begin. And I like that clients get total freedom to choose between face-to-face appointments or convenient online sessions.
To support that flexible experience, they also offer evening and weekend bookings to fit a packed weekly schedule.
On the downside, this after-hours flexibility isn’t guaranteed with every single therapist in their network. You’ll probably need to shop around a little to find someone whose hours line up with yours.
Customer Reviews
Amazing and helpful service
Very grateful for the team at Life Supports for their amazing and helpful service. I’m one of the lucky ones and the first psych they recommended to me has been my long term psychologist for 6+ years now. Highly recommend and have suggested heaps of friends and family to talk to the team here as the first step to seeking help. Thanks for making it so easy to take care of my mental health!
- Ellie Nguyen | Google Review
Absolute pleasure to speak with
(Laura) I had the absolute pleasure of speaking with Ivy yesterday, she was brilliant. Kind, organised and you can tell she loves her job. I just wanted to say a huge thank you. A personal touch is so important. Give this girl a raise or a promotion! She is so suited to this industry.
- Laura J | Google Review
6. Canberra Psychology Clinic
Website: https://canberrapsych.com.au/
Address: Suite 11/11 McKay Gardens
Contact: 02 6247 5710
Hours: Monday – Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM, Thursday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Therapy isn’t solely reserved for moments of deep crisis. In fact, it’s also an incredible tool for overall personal growth. For that, Canberra Psychology Clinic may be your best choice.
The clinic focuses on assisting people who simply want to enhance their daily well-being. They provide a warm environment staffed by highly trained psychologists who truly listen to your daily struggles.
Additionally, they offer specialised relationship frameworks like the Gottman method to help couples rebuild trust and communication.
I really liked that they perform comprehensive cognitive and educational assessments for both children and adults. This ensures a more structured counselling approach.
That said, keep in mind that sessions going over 75 minutes incur a pro rata fee. You’ll see those extra charges add up very quickly for longer sessions.
Customer Reviews
Fantastic and caring experts
Exceptional. I’ve been going there for 5 years. Fantastic, caring, expert and dedicated staff.
Robert Bednarik | Google Reveiw