Frequently Asked Questions

What is CBT?

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a practical, evidence-based therapy that helps people understand how their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are connected.

  • How it works: CBT teaches you to notice unhelpful thinking patterns and replace them with more balanced ways of thinking.

  • Who it helps: CBT is effective for anxiety, depression, stress, phobias, OCD, and many other challenges.

  • What to expect: Sessions are structured, goal-focused, and often include “home practice” between sessions to strengthen skills.

What is ACT?

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a form of cognitive therapy which focuses less on “getting rid of” difficult thoughts and feelings and more on learning to live a meaningful life alongside them.

  • How it works: ACT teaches mindfulness, self-compassion, and acceptance skills, while also helping you take steps towards what matters most to you.

  • Who it helps: ACT is effective for anxiety, depression, chronic illness, trauma, stress, and life transitions.

  • What to expect: Sessions often explore your personal values and build practical strategies for taking committed action towards a richer, fuller life.

What is DBT?

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is a therapy originally designed to support people who experience intense emotions and difficulties in relationships.

  • How it works: DBT combines acceptance (understanding yourself as you are) with change strategies (learning new skills).

  • Key skills: Mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.

  • Who it helps: DBT is particularly effective for people with emotion regulation difficulties, self-harm, or borderline personality disorder, but its skills can benefit anyone.

  • What to expect: DBT often includes individual therapy and skills training groups, though many of the skills can also be learned in one-on-one sessions.

How do I know which therapy is right for me?

The “best” therapy depends on your goals, preferences, and current challenges. Many therapists blend techniques from CBT, ACT, and DBT to tailor support to each individual. At your first session we’ll discuss your needs and decide together what approach may work best for you.

Therapy in Nature?

Therapy in nature offers a refreshing alternative to the therapy room - helping you feel more open, present, and connected during sessions.

Many people find that therapy in nature feels more relaxed and helps conversations flow more easily. Gentle movement, fresh air, and natural surroundings can help reduce stress, improve mood, and create space for reflection.

Nature is an ideal environment for practicing mindfulness, grounding techniques, and values-based reflection. Research shows that being in green spaces reduces stress, improves mood, and increases mental clarity — all of which support the goals of therapy.

Talking Heads Mental Health currently offers in-person psychology support to the following areas within the Northern Rivers:

  • Tweed Heads

  • Murwillumbah

  • Kingscliff

  • Casuarina

  • Cabarita

  • Pottsville

  • Ocean Shores

  • Brunswick Heads

  • Mullumbimby

  • Byron Bay

What concerns are supported by Individual Therapy?

People choose to seek help for a range of reasons. For some, it may be to facilitate personal growth. For others it may be to address a specific need or issue. Some examples include:

  • Anxiety

  • Depression

  • Stress management

  • Life transitions

  • Anger management and emotional regulation

  • Neurodivergence (ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder)

  • Grief and loss counselling