The experience of Relational Trauma can give rise to any number of adaptive behaviours. Because of our genius when we are young (don’t worry, I still think you’re brilliant) it is natural for us to create adaptations when we experience something that feels overwhelming for us. We might decide for example that we are never going to feel that amount of aloneness ever again so we decide for example, we just don’t need anyone and grow to avoid getting close to people…or we might decide that we can never be alone again so we make sure that those around us are always happy with us and become ardent people pleasers or we - the possibilities are as endless as they are genius. Sometimes genius adaptive behaviours we create when we are young, can become stuck and turn out to be maladaptive as we grow older. Adaptive then, maladaptive now.

Cairns Counselling and couples therapy can support you to develop greater connection, heal past hurt, understand and prevent painful patterns, and increase your relational skills and esteem in your relationship. Contact Biannka Brannigan, Cairns Relationship Counsellor, Educator and Psychotherapist.

Couples Counselling Cairns can support you to develop greater connection, heal past hurt, understand and prevent painful patterns, and increase your relational skills and esteem in your relationship. Contact Biannka Brannigan, Cairns Couples Counsellor, Psychotherapist and Educator.

Relationship Counselling Cairns can support you to develop greater connection, heal past hurt, understand and prevent painful patterns, and increase your relational skills and esteem in your relationship. Contact Biannka Brannigan, Cairns Relationship Counsellor, Educator and Psychotherapist.

Self-esteem, the way we perceive ourselves and our worth, is a complex and ever-evolving aspect of our lives. It plays a significant role in shaping our thoughts, behaviours, and interactions with the world around us.  Self-esteem can be both healthy and unhealthy. Here we focus on the unhealthy patterns of self-esteem and the impact on the relationship we have with ourselves and those closest to us. Contact Biannka, Cairns Counselling and Psychotherapy.

Gestalt Psychotherapy is a holistic, humanistic therapy that believes that people are born with the resources and abilities to lead a rewarding and creative life and to have meaningful and fulfilling relationships with others. Gestalt psychotherapy has been applied to a wide range of therapeutic settings, including individual therapy, couples therapy, group therapy, organizational development, community development and family therapy. Gestalt Psychotherapy is dynamic, powerful and life changing. Book your appointment with Biannka, psychotherapist and councillor in Cairns, Kuranda, Queensland, Australia.

The importance of self-worth and self-esteem in our lives extends far beyond individual well-being. These two pillars influence the quality of our relationships, guiding us towards forming meaningful connections with others. When we embrace our inherent worthiness, we set healthier boundaries, fostering connections built on authenticity and mutual respect. Our self-esteem empowers us to recognize and celebrate our strengths and of those around us, cultivating a sense of unity and support in our shared human experience.

In the world of modern relationships, the journey of finding a suitable partner can often be daunting and overwhelming. Many of us enter relationships with the desire to present our best selves, fearing that revealing our vulnerabilities and imperfections might scare potential partners away. Leading with, “I have a tendency to be really lazy and I hate washing up” has probably never been top of mind when meeting someone new… However, philosopher Alain de Botton urges us to take a different approach. He encourages us to embrace our true selves, including the crazy parts, and share these aspects with our potential partners.

In today's fast-paced and interconnected world, the value of relationships has never been more apparent. We all long for meaningful connections with our partners, friends, family, and children. However, in a culture that often prioritizes individualism and self-centeredness, many of us lack the necessary skills to truly nurture and develop these relationships. As a therapist, I have dedicated myself to bridging this gap and empowering my clients with the tools they need to build strong and intimate connections. I

Relationships can be both fulfilling and challenging, and it’s not uncommon to experience periods of where things feel difficult. Understanding the different phases of love can provide insight into why your relationship might be going through a tough time.

Individual and couples therapy can have a profound affect on how you live your life leading to greater self-awareness, understanding and a kinder relationship with yourself and others.

Practising self compassion will support you to create more self worth, confidence, develop fulfilling relationships, spontaneity, and joy in your life.

Finding a good therapist is as important as finding a good doctor or accountant. Not all of us are created equally so I have put together some tips for you to consider.

You deserve to sit with someone who listens, who is impacted by your story and who allows you to feel empowered about your life once again! You also want to start feeling like the therapy is supporting you and you are starting to develop greater insight in to the way you do your life.

Things I have learnt that I never want to forget…personal reflections on failings and learnings in relationship

Often when we are in the midst of feeling anxious, it’s hard to know what will help us feel better. Below I have listed 5 practices to alleviate anxiety and calm our nervous system to slow down (think…a long noisy exhale) and shift our perspective. The practices are not about changing or denying your experience but they will allow you to better understand what is causing the anxiety. These are my trusty 5 that I incorporate in my life very regularly and I hope that they help you find some relief too. Reach out to Biannka, Cairns Counsellor and Psychotherapist based in Kuranda, Cairns, Queensland, Australia.

When Things Fall Apart…Why I Will Always Choose a Gestalt Psychotherapist. The unique approach of Gestalt Psychotherapy provides you with support where you feel seen, heard and supported to make positive changes in your life.