Counselling and Psychotherapy Services for Men is uniquely tailored to address the challenges men face. Men often experience societal pressure to avoid discussing emotions or mental health. At my clinic, I specialise in creating a space where men can feel comfortable sharing their struggles without judgment.

With evidence-based therapies like CBT, EMDR, and Existential Therapy, I help men navigate relationships, work stress, and personal challenges while focusing on growth, resilience, and emotional wellbeing.

Our practice offers a variety of therapeutic approaches, thoughtfully chosen to align with the unique paths of our clients:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): This modality helps clients understand the interplay between thoughts, feelings, and behaviuors and develop strategies to address challenging situations.
• Existential Therapy: This approach delves into the human condition, exploring themes such as meaning, freedom, isolation, and mortality.
• Family / Marital: Focuses on improving communication and resolving conflicts within couples and family units.
• Family Systems: Considers familial interactions and how they influence the individual’s behaviuor and mental health.
• Jungian Therapy: Draws on analytical psychology, interpreting dreams and symbols to uncover deeper psychological insights.
• Narrative Therapy: Employs storytelling to help clients see their issues from different angles and find alternative narratives.
• Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT): Improves the parent-child relationship through interactive techniques and coaching.
• Person-Centred Therapy: Offers a non-directive approach, empowering individuals to discover solutions within themselves.
• Play Therapy: Allows children to express complex emotions and experiences through play.
• Psychobiological Approach Couple Therapy (PACT): Integrates principles from attachment theory and neuroscience to strengthen romantic partnerships.
• Psychodynamic Therapy: Explores unconscious patterns that emerge from past experiences and influence current behavior.
• Strength-Based Therapy: Focuses on a person’s innate strengths and resources for overcoming obstacles.
• Trauma-Focused Therapy: Aims to alleviate the impact of trauma, particularly suited to those with PTSD or similar conditions.

Enhancing these practices, we also incorporate Meditation, Mindfulness, and techniques that promote Spiritual Synchronicity with Mind and Body, supporting a holistic journey toward wellness that transcends the cognitive and encompasses the whole self.

By integrating these modalities, we ensure a personalised and multi-faceted therapeutic experience, fostering both mental and spiritual well-being.
Read more on therapy approaches or discover all our services here.

Men come to our consulting rooms for a multitude of reasons. They may be seeking help with:

• Navigating communication barriers within their relationships
• Addressing commitment issues with their partner
• Overcoming intimacy difficulties
• Developing strategies for coping with stress
• Managing symptoms of anxiety
• Alleviating feelings of depression
• Processing the emotional impact of grief and loss
• Controlling and understanding expressions of anger
• Resolving conflict in various areas of life
• Confronting addictions, including alcohol, drugs, sex, gambling, pornography, and internet usage
• Enhancing parenting skills and approaches
• Making informed decisions about career transitions
• Combating feelings of loneliness and isolation

Each man’s journey is unique, and we provide a supportive and confidential space to explore these challenges and work towards solutions.

In our first session, we’ll focus on understanding your concerns, goals, and hopes for therapy. This is your time to share what’s most important to you.

Sessions may include exploring thoughts and emotions, practical strategies to manage stress, or deeper reflection on patterns and life experiences. I tailor therapy to your unique pace and comfort level. Learn more about my approach.

Approaching your first session may feel daunting, but there’s no need for preparation; an open mind is all that’s required. Your therapist will lead the way, creating a warm, supportive space to begin our dialogue.

We’ll delve into what prompted you to seek counseling and what you aspire to achieve or alter in your life. Expect conversations about your present concerns and past experiences, which will help us understand you holistically and identify the most beneficial therapeutic approaches for you. To enhance our insight, you may be invited to fill out some questionnaires, always with the freedom to disclose only what feels comfortable to you, at your own pace.

By the end of this initial meeting, we aim to establish clear counseling goals and a preliminary action plan. You’ll receive strategies to begin applying immediately, ensuring you leave with practical tools to facilitate positive changes from day one. Our commitment is to ensure you feel heard, understood, and ready to embark on this transformative journey.

Our fees for counselling and psychotherapy are $250 per session, which reflects the prevailing standards within the psychology and counselling professions. This fee also accounts for the high level of expertise and care provided by Christian Acuña. Each session runs for at least 60 minutes, and often, sessions may extend slightly beyond this time without any additional charge.

For clients with private health insurance that includes coverage for psychological or counselling services, we provide detailed invoices to facilitate rebates. However, please note that we do not work with Medicare rebates or Mental Health Care Plans (MHCP), as these often impose limitations on the therapeutic approaches and methodologies that can be employed.

That said, if you do have a Mental Health Care Plan, we offer a 20% discount, which is comparable to the rebates provided under Medicare.

For specialised services, including couples therapy, court documentation, mental health reports, and other tailored offerings, pricing may vary based on specific needs and circumstances. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for a personalised discussion on these options.

At Counselling and Psychotherapy Services for Men, Christian is committed to providing transparent pricing and guiding you with integrity as you begin your therapeutic journey.

In our first session, we’ll focus on understanding your concerns, goals, and hopes for therapy. This is your time to share what’s most important to you.

Sessions may include exploring thoughts and emotions, practical strategies to manage stress, or deeper reflection on patterns and life experiences. I tailor therapy to your unique pace and comfort level. Learn more about my approach.

There’s no need to bring anything special to your first session. We will start by reviewing an informed consent form that explains confidentiality boundaries. This is followed by a conversation where you can describe what brings you to therapy, and your psychotherapist will ask questions to gain a clear understanding of your concerns and discuss possible treatment approaches. Before your appointment, you may receive an email containing a few forms to complete. These may include a timeline document to note any significant events in your life and another form to evaluate your mental and physical well-being. Please fill these out and email them back before your session, as they are vital in helping us tailor the therapy to your personal journey.

Understanding intimacy and its inherent challenges is particularly important for men due to several societal and cultural factors that often discourage emotional openness and vulnerability, which are key components of intimate relationships.

Traditionally, many men have been socialized to restrain emotions, uphold a facade of strength, and avoid displays of vulnerability. However, emotional closeness and the ability to share one’s deepest thoughts and feelings are central to forming and maintaining healthy, satisfying relationships. Intimacy allows for a stronger, more genuine connection with others and contributes significantly to mental and emotional well-being.

When men engage with the concept of intimacy and confront their own challenges related to it, they are taking crucial steps toward breaking down barriers that may have been erected due to past trauma, fear of judgment, or cultural expectations. Developing a better understanding of intimacy can lead to improved relationships, reduced feelings of loneliness, and a more fulfilling life experience. Acknowledging and working through issues with intimacy can also pave the way for more resilience in dealing with life’s challenges and cultivating a robust support system through meaningful connections.

To become a better partner, consider cultivating these habits and attitudes within your relationship:

1. 1. Foster Trust: Trust is the foundation of partnership. It’s about feeling seen, heard, understood, and accepted by each other.
   2. Embrace Various Forms of Intimacy: Remember that intimacy isn’t solely physical. Express love and appreciation verbally and through thoughtful actions.
   3. Respect Autonomy: Honor each other’s need for independence and the space to make personal decisions.
   4. Create a Safe Space: Establish an environment where both partners can share their vulnerabilities, problems, and fears without judgment.
   5. Prioritize Communication: Good communication involves not just talking but listening. Remember, listening to your partner doesn’t mean you have to solve their problems.
   6. Negotiate Differences: Approach disagreements with respect and a willingness to find a middle ground.
   7. Address Personal Issues: Be mindful of the ‘baggage’ you bring into the relationship and take ownership of it, while also setting realistic expectations for your partner.
   8. Value Personal Time: Spending time alone is crucial for personal well-being and can ultimately strengthen the relationship.
   9. Cultivate External Support: A network of friends can provide additional support that your partnership might not be able to fulfill.
   10. Lighten Up: Learn not to take everything too seriously, including yourself. Balance is key to a healthy and joyful partnership.

Being a better partner is an ongoing journey of self-reflection, communication, and growth, which can lead to a more fulfilling and loving relationship. During your therapeutic journey with us, we will explore all these points and integrate them in the best way possible into your life, ensuring that the insights and skills you gain are not only understood but are also practically applied for lasting change.

Yes, confidentiality is fundamental to counselling. What you share in therapy stays private, except in rare situations where there’s a risk of harm to yourself or others. I’ll explain confidentiality in detail during our first session.

Having a safe, private space to express yourself is essential for healing and growth. Rest assured, nobody from your family, close circle, or anyone else will know that you have attended therapy with us unless you choose to tell them. My notes are strictly confidential, and nobody will read them without your written consent.

However, there are exceptional circumstances under which I am legally obligated to disclose information. In NSW, these include:

– **Risk of Harm:** If I believe there is a serious and immediate risk of harm to yourself (such as suicidal intentions) or to others, I may need to take action to ensure safety, which may include notifying relevant services or authorities.

– **Legal Requirements:** If I receive a court order, subpoena, or other legal directive, I may be compelled by law to disclose certain information shared during therapy. This can occur in rare circumstances, such as involvement in serious criminal investigations or cases.

– **Serious Criminal Offences:** If there is information about crimes such as terrorism, drug trafficking, or threats to national security, I am required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities.

Outside of these rare exceptions, everything you share with me will remain private and protected. If any such situation arises, I will discuss it with you first and guide you through the process to ensure you feel supported and informed.

Maintaining confidentiality is at the core of what I do at Counselling and Psychotherapy Services for Men. My role is to provide you with a secure, judgment-free environment to explore, express, and work through your concerns at your own pace.

Therapy often ranges from 6 to 12 sessions, though additional sessions may sometimes be suggested for further growth. Like a restorative massage for the mind and spirit, therapy can be beneficial as a lifelong practice to maintain well-being. However, you are empowered to conclude your therapy whenever you feel your goals have been met. If your therapy is initiated as a recommendation from a court or lawyer, particularly if it involves the preparation of a psychological report for court, a minimum of three sessions will be required at the very least.

Counselling can help you:

– **Reduce Stress and Anxiety:** Learn effective tools and techniques to manage overwhelming feelings, calm your mind, and regain control over your daily life.
– **Build Healthier Relationships:** Address unhealthy attachment styles and communication barriers to create stronger, more meaningful connections with partners, family, and friends.
– **Process Past Trauma and Emotional Pain:** Safely work through unresolved trauma, grief, or painful memories that may be holding you back from living fully.
– **Overcome Depression:** Explore the root causes of low moods, lack of motivation, and emotional numbness while building strategies for a brighter, more fulfilling life.
– **Improve Self-Awareness and Confidence:** Develop a deeper understanding of your emotions, thoughts, and behaviours, empowering you to embrace your strengths and build self-assurance.
– **Find Clarity Around Life Decisions and Personal Growth:** Navigate challenges such as career changes, relationships, and personal identity, helping you feel grounded and clear about your path forward.
– **Address Substance Use and Alcohol Challenges:** Explore the underlying reasons for dependency, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and rebuild your life without reliance on harmful habits.
– **Support Mental Health Conditions:** Manage conditions such as bipolar disorder, existential depression, and insomnia through tailored therapeutic approaches.
– **Break Unhealthy Patterns:** Identify recurring patterns of behaviour or thought that may be sabotaging your relationships, career, or self-image, and replace them with healthier, sustainable habits.
– **Build Emotional Resilience:** Strengthen your ability to handle setbacks, conflicts, and uncertainties in life with greater confidence and calmness.
– **Manage Anger and Frustration:** Learn to identify triggers, regulate emotions, and express yourself constructively without letting anger take over.
– **Enhance Physical and Spiritual Well-being:** Recognise the mind-body connection, align your lifestyle habits, and create a more balanced, healthy approach to living.

Read about the benefits of therapy here and explore how tailored counselling can address your unique needs at Counselling and Psychotherapy Services for Men.

It’s common to wonder if your struggles are significant enough for therapy. If you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unable to manage stress, counselling could help you regain clarity and control. Whether it’s anxiety, relationship issues, addiction, or simply feeling “off,” therapy provides tools to process emotions and build healthier habits.
At Counselling and Psychotherapy Services for Men, Christian Acuña creates a safe, judgment-free space tailored for men. You don’t need to hit rock bottom to seek help. If you’ve noticed changes in your mood, behavior, or relationships, therapy can be a proactive step to improve your quality of life.

Some key indicators include persistent sadness, trouble sleeping, emotional numbness, irritability, reliance on substances to cope, or feeling disconnected. Therapy can help you understand the root causes of these challenges and find effective solutions.

For many men, simply taking the first step is the hardest part. Therapy isn’t about weakness; it’s about strength—taking control of your life and investing in your growth. It’s a sign of resilience to ask for help.

Learn more about the benefits of therapy here: Read our blogs.

Depression in men often presents differently than it does in women. Instead of sadness, many men experience irritability, anger, fatigue, or withdrawal from family and social life. You might feel unmotivated, lose interest in things you used to enjoy, or turn to alcohol or other habits to numb the pain.
Common signs include:

Difficulty concentrating or making decisions.
Changes in sleep or appetite.
Persistent feelings of emptiness or hopelessness.
Increased use of substances to cope.
Christian Acuña works specifically with men to identify and address these signs in a safe, supportive environment. Counselling can help you uncover underlying causes of depression, whether it’s past trauma, relationship issues, or work stress, and build healthier coping mechanisms.

Depression isn’t a personal failing; it’s a medical condition that can improve with the right support. If you feel stuck or misunderstood, talking with a therapist can make a world of difference.

Learn more about how therapy can help: Read about mental health support.

At Counselling and Psychotherapy Services for Men, Christian specialises in supporting men through:
– Anxiety and stress management.
– Depression and emotional numbness.
– Relationship challenges, including communication and intimacy issues.
– Addiction and substance dependency.
– Childhood trauma or unresolved emotional pain.
– Anger management and emotional regulation.
– Existential crises or loss of purpose.

Men often face unique societal pressures that make it difficult to talk about these struggles. Christian provides a confidential, supportive environment where you can explore what’s weighing you down without fear of judgment.

Whether you’re navigating burnout at work, dealing with past trauma, or feeling overwhelmed by life’s expectations, Christian’s holistic and evidence-based approach helps you gain clarity and resilience.

Learn more about our services here: Explore therapy options.

Stress and burnout are incredibly common, especially for men juggling work, relationships, and personal responsibilities. Therapy can help you understand the sources of your stress, manage your workload more effectively, and set healthy boundaries.
At our clinic, Christian provides tools to help you process overwhelming emotions, regain focus, and rebuild your energy. Strategies might include mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), or learning to identify negative thought patterns that contribute to burnout.

Men often feel pressured to “push through,” but ignoring stress can lead to long-term health consequences, including anxiety, depression, and physical illness. Therapy gives you space to pause, reflect, and create sustainable ways to balance life.

If you’re feeling emotionally exhausted or disconnected, counselling can help you reconnect with yourself and your goals. Learn more about stress and mental health in men here: Read about burnout.