Email Rhys directly at Vallancecounselling@gmail.com    to connect

Rhys- Men’s Counselling and General Counselling Online.

Life doesn’t always fall apart before we realise something needs to change. Sometimes, from the outside, everything looks fine. You’re working hard, carrying responsibility, supporting those around you and doing what needs to be done. Yet beneath the surface, you feel stuck, disconnected, or unsure of where life is heading. You might not be in crisis, but you know you don’t want to stay where you are.

I have a particular passion for working in Men’s Counselling who are high-functioning but quietly struggling-men who know they’re capable of more but aren’t sure what the next step looks like. Whether you’re navigating grief, wrestling with your identity, carrying the weight of unspoken expectations, or simply feeling that life has become harder than it should be, counselling can provide the space to slow down, gain perspective and move forward with purpose.

I’ve always been fascinated by what makes people tick. That curiosity, combined with my own experience of seeking counselling, ultimately led me into this profession. Through my own journey, I discovered the value of being genuinely heard by someone who could offer both compassion and insight. It also highlighted something that has stayed with me ever since: many men struggle to find a counsellor they feel comfortable opening up to. I wanted to be part of changing that.

My approach to counselling is built on genuine relationship. I believe meaningful change happens when people feel safe enough to be honest about their lives without fear of judgement. My role isn’t to tell you who you should be or to “fix” your problems. Instead, I seek to walk alongside you, helping you better understand yourself, recognise the stories you’ve come to believe about your life, and discover healthier ways of moving forward.

I enjoy helping people develop greater emotional literacy, rewrite unhelpful internal narratives, process grief and loss, explore forgiveness, and understand how deeply held beliefs can influence both emotional wellbeing and physical health. I’m particularly interested in helping people unlock the potential that may have been hidden beneath years of shame, disappointment, fear or self-doubt.

Clients often describe me as calm, insightful and easy to talk to. I enjoy listening well, asking thoughtful questions and offering practical insights that encourage meaningful growth. While I value reflection and self-awareness, I also believe counselling should lead to tangible change. Insight is important, but it’s what we do with that insight that transforms our lives.

Before becoming a counsellor, I gained experience in areas including union advocacy, ministry and youth work. These roles deepened my appreciation for people’s stories and reinforced my desire to stand alongside others during difficult seasons. They also taught me that behind every behaviour is a person longing to be understood, valued and given hope.

As a Christian counsellor, my faith shapes the way I understand people, relationships and healing. I believe every person possesses inherent worth and dignity because they are created in the image of God. I also believe Christ reveals Himself through grace, truth and relationship, and that genuine transformation is possible for every person. While my faith is central to who I am, I welcome people from all backgrounds and beliefs. I seek to create a respectful, compassionate environment where every client feels heard, supported and valued. When clients wish to explore faith as part of their counselling journey, I’m honoured to do so; when they don’t, they can expect the same level of care, professionalism and commitment.

I hold a Master of Law, Policy and Government, a Bachelor of Arts majoring in German and Political Science & International Relations, and a Graduate Diploma in Christian Counselling. I am currently completing a Master of Counselling and am a member of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA). My ongoing study reflects my commitment to providing thoughtful, evidence-informed care while continuing to grow both personally and professionally.

Outside the counselling room, I’m a husband and father who enjoys reading, gardening, fitness and spending time outdoors. These simple rhythms help keep me grounded and remind me of the importance of balance, connection and slowing down in a world that often asks us to keep pushing forward.

I believe everyone can benefit from having a second pair of eyes. We all have blind spots, and sometimes the greatest progress begins with an honest conversation. Whatever season you find yourself in, you don’t have to navigate it alone.

It would be a privilege to walk alongside you as you pursue healing, greater self-understanding and the life you were created to live.

Specialisation and Services

Area of Focus

  • Mens Issues
  • Anxiety
  • Assertiveness Training
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Couples Therapy
  • Depression
  • Family Therapy
  • General Counselling
  • Mental health
  • Panic Attacks
  • Relationships
  • Relaxation training
  • Self-Esteem
  • Women’s Issues

Modalities

  • Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Mindfulness
  • Narrative Therapy
  • Psychoeducation
  • Solution-Focused Therapy
  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy

Patient Focus

  • Men
  • Childre
  • Teenagers
  • Adults
  • Families
  • Older adults
  • Women
  • Couples

Services

Online consultations

Contact Rhys  0409 999 083