Business Details
Your Trusted Partner for Counselling Solutions in Burleigh Heads
Brighter Day Counselling, founded by Karen Holmes, is a private practice specializing in women's mental health and relationship counselling on the Gold Coast. With 17 years of professional experience, Karen combines evidence-based therapies like the Gottman Method and EFT/Tapping to address complex issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship dynamics. As a Certified Gottman Couples Therapist and member of PACFA, Karen prioritizes ethical practice, ongoing professional development, and client-centered care.The practice emphasizes transparency, equipping clients with practical tools for self-management, and addressing both immediate concerns and long-term emotional well-being. Services cater to individuals, couples, and mothers navigating life transitions, with a focus on fostering resilience and healthier relationships.
Services
Women's Counselling
Couples Therapy
EFT/Tapping
Individual Coaching
Pregnancy Loss Support
Anger Management
Mindfulness Training
Parenting Support
Trauma Counselling
Self-Esteem Building
Highlights and features
- 17 years of specialized experience in women's mental health and relationship counselling
- Certified in evidence-based Gottman Method for couples therapy
- Clinical training in EFT/Tapping for stress and trauma management
- Ethical practice guided by PACFA standards and ongoing professional development
- Personalized approach combining psychotherapy and practical self-help tools
Associations and certifications
- Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA)
- Certified Gottman Couples Therapist
Services
Women's Counselling
Specialized therapy addressing women's unique challenges including motherhood transitions, body image, anxiety, and identity issues. Evidence-based techniques foster self-awareness and resilience. Clients gain tools for improved self-care and navigating societal expectations.
Couples Therapy
Certified Gottman Method counselling for couples addressing communication breakdowns, conflict resolution, and emotional connection. Structured assessments identify relationship strengths and areas for growth. Sessions focus on rebuilding trust and collaborative problem-solving.
EFT/Tapping
Clinical Emotional Freedom Technique combining psychotherapy and acupressure to reduce stress and trauma symptoms. Targets amygdala activity to lower cortisol levels. Clients learn self-administered tapping for managing anxiety, grief, and emotional triggers.
Individual Coaching
Support for single clients exploring relationship patterns, attachment styles, and self-development. Uses Couple Sensitive Individual Therapy framework to improve interpersonal skills. Focuses on boundary setting and breaking negative behavioral cycles.
Pregnancy Loss Support
Specialized care for women experiencing miscarriage, termination, or infertility grief. Addresses isolation and societal stigma through compassionate therapy. Combines trauma-informed approaches with practical coping strategies for emotional healing.
People
Karen Holmes
Principal Counsellor
Karen Holmes is a Gold Coast-based psychotherapist with 17 years of experience in women's mental health and relationship counselling. Certified in the Gottman Method and EFT/Tapping, she specializes in anxiety, trauma, and life transitions. Karen combines clinical expertise with personal therapy insights to create a safe, empowering environment for clients.
Questions
Do I need a GP referral for counselling?
No GP referral is required. You can book directly and choose a therapist that suits your needs.
What happens during the first counselling session?
The first session explores your concerns, background, and goals. Karen will ask about your relationships and daily life to understand your unique situation.
Can men access individual counselling services?
Yes, men are welcome for individual sessions focusing on relationship understanding and personal development.
Is couples counselling covered by health insurance?
Medicare doesn't cover couple counselling. Check with your private health fund for possible rebates under complementary therapies.
What mental health issues do you commonly treat?
Common issues include anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship conflicts, self-esteem challenges, and perinatal mental health concerns.
How does EFT/Tapping therapy work?
EFT/Tapping combines acupressure and psychotherapy to reduce stress by stimulating energy meridians while addressing emotional triggers in a safe therapeutic environment.
