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Free one-on-one personal counselling and support in a safe, non-judgemental environment for people who need help addressing their own alcohol or other drug (AOD) use, or who are dealing with the impact of someone else’s AOD use.

About the Program

Our personal counselling program is free, confidential and available to individuals of all ages across the Perth metro area and regional WA.

Over six one-hour counselling sessions, our experienced counsellors help participants make sense of their situation and work through challenges caused by their own or someone else’s alcohol or drug use.

Each counselling session focuses on developing:

  • A greater understanding of self and others
  • Awareness, acceptance and connection
  • Meaning-making, attitude and perspective
  • Empowerment and self-confidence

The support we provide is individually tailored to each person’s needs and goals. Sessions can explore a wide range of topics, all designed to help participants build understanding and practical skills to live healthier, happier lives.

Common focus areas include:

  • Alcohol and other drug dependency, relapse prevention and avoidance
  • Self-esteem, self-control and personal responsibility
  • Stress, grief, guilt, loss, anger, shame, anxiety, depression and violence
  • Bonding, boundaries and peer pressure
  • Communication, relationships and coping skills
  • Goal-setting and making sustainable positive changes for the future

Our counsellors provide a supportive space to reflect, talk openly, and find practical strategies for personal growth and emotional well-being.

How the Program Works

The therapeutic process begins with an initial meeting and assessment with one of our counsellors. Together, you’ll explore what has brought you to counselling and gain a broader understanding of your life and current challenges.

The second counselling session usually focuses on identifying your needs, concerns, and goals, both in relation to alcohol and drug use and other aspects of life.

From there, you’ll work with your counsellor to:

  • Set clear goals for progress and growth
  • Develop coping strategies and awareness
  • Build confidence and self-understanding

As sessions continue, the focus shifts towards building resilience and capacity to manage challenges independently. Towards the final session, you and your counsellor will reflect on your journey and discuss whether you feel ready to finalise counselling. If more mental health support is needed, we can refer you to other mental health services or professionals under a mental health care plan.

Are Counselling Conversations Private and Confidential?

Yes. All counselling conversations are private and confidential, and your information remains strictly between you and your counsellor.

There are only three circumstances where information may be shared with a third party:

  • When required by law (for example, under a court order)
  • When there is a serious risk to your safety or the safety of others
  • When you provide written consent for disclosure

Confidentiality helps ensure every participant feels safe and supported to speak openly during sessions.

The Outcomes

Our individual counselling sessions aim to help people address and find solutions for the challenges they face. Many participants take away new skills, self-awareness, and confidence to make positive changes in everyday life.

Just as importantly, counselling often creates emotional change. Alcohol and other drug use are closely linked to how we feel. When people feel more supported, accepted, and connected, they are less likely to rely on alcohol or drugs or feel overwhelmed by another person’s use.

By providing a safe space for open, honest conversation, our counsellors help build self-worth, emotional balance, and hope for the future. Participants often report feeling more connected, confident, and empowered to face life’s challenges with optimism and resilience.

Sessions are available:

  • In person at our counselling centres in Victoria Park, Midland, Northam, Narrogin and Merredin
  • By phone or video call for those unable to attend in person
  • During the day or evening, to suit your schedule

For more information or to book an appointment, please contact reception on (08) 9416 4444 or email clientservices@holyoake.org.au.

Participants are also welcome to have a carer attend sessions with them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Personal counselling is a confidential, one-on-one process where you talk with a trained counsellor about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. It provides a safe, supportive space to explore personal issues such as alcohol and drug use, relationships, stress, grief, or other mental health concerns. The aim is to help you understand yourself better, manage challenges, and create positive change.

The five key counselling skills are:

  • Active listening: Giving full attention to understand the person’s experience.
  • Empathy: Showing understanding and compassion without judgement.
  • Open-ended questioning: Encouraging deeper reflection and discussion.
  • Paraphrasing and summarising: Ensuring clarity and mutual understanding.
  • Building trust and rapport: Creating a safe, supportive relationship between the counsellor and the client.

Our experienced counsellors at Holyoake use these core skills throughout every session to help people feel heard, understood and supported.

Each counselling session is tailored to your personal situation. You and your counsellor will talk about what’s happening in your life, what challenges you’re facing, and what you’d like to change or achieve.

Together, you’ll work through these topics at your own pace. You may:

  • Reflect on thoughts and emotions
  • Learn coping strategies for stress, anxiety or depression
  • Explore patterns in relationships or behaviours
  • Set personal goals for wellbeing and positive change

The process is collaborative and supportive. Not about giving advice, but about helping you find clarity, confidence and direction.

Contact our team today Refer a client

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