What first stood out to me about the Brisbane Centre for Psychology was how structured yet personal their approach felt. Before my session, they walked me through how Medicare rebates worked and what my out-of-pocket fees would be.

Their team uses a mix of evidence-based therapies like CBT, and each therapist I spoke to had a calm, reassuring way of breaking things down. They also offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) for trauma / PTSD and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). 

The most convenient offering is the online client portal. I was able to book appointments and manage my sessions without delay. It even functions as an accessible tool for invoices. 

The biggest strength here is affordability. Their “reasonable gap fee” model really does help reduce the cost of ongoing therapy, especially if you’re using a Mental Health Care Plan. I also appreciated that they support multiple funding pathways, like WorkCover. 

The only thing I found limiting is the weekend access. While they offer Saturday appointments, slots can fill up quickly. 

Wonderful team

“The team are wonderful and welcoming. They were very accommodating by getting us in promptly for my 7 year old. Dr Chris is lovely, my daughter felt at ease and she is already asking when she gets to go again. I’m so pleased that she doesn’t feel anxious about going back. Highly recommended them!”

Ashley Mathams, Google Review

Helpful reception

“Molly at reception is so wonderful, friendly, and super helpful with booking my appointments and always makes me feel comfortable when I enter the practice. My therapist Hannah has created a very safe environment for us to do EMDR and process a lot that has already made a huge difference in my life and wellbeing. Hannah is incredibly kind, professional and understanding. Thank you! Very keen to continue. Grateful to be able to.”

Tegan Atkins, Google Review

CBT Professionals has one of the clearest fee structures I’ve come across, which immediately set my expectations at ease. They outline every cost upfront, so there are no surprises when you arrive.

Their therapists primarily use CBT, along with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and exposure therapy. 

My sessions were focused, with practical strategies I could try between visits. I found this helpful, especially if you prefer therapy that gives you tools rather than just space to vent.

Another strong point is their breadth of services. They also provide a broad range of clinical services, including NDIS support and a specialized program called the Secret Agent Society.

One thing to consider, though, is that the sessions come with a noticeable out-of-pocket cost even after Medicare rebates. And if you need evening or Saturday appointments, the after-hours surcharge might be worth factoring in.

Lovely appointments

“My initial appointment with Sorcha two months ago and she was really lovely. Unfortunately been in hospital since but now ready to recommence my appointments and will call the girls tomorrow. I believe with fortnightly appointments with Sorcha I can regain my quality of life”

Andrea Shields, Google Review

Understanding and upfront

“Seeing Sorcha, Very understanding and true fully and straightfully upfront. Which has been exceptionally helpful and wonderful guidance for me to get to the point of  full living again. Still got a fair way to go but with Sorch’s professional guidance and my wonderful l family’s love and support, I will get to those goals I want need to achieve.”

Shaun Pettigrew, Google Review

Booking with North Brisbane Psychologists felt refreshingly smooth. Their intake process is highly organized. Forms are sent ahead of time, and therapists review them before your appointment, so I barely had anything to worry about. 

What I appreciated most was the variety of practitioners available. Whether you prefer a clinically endorsed psychologist or someone more conversational and coaching-oriented, there’s likely someone who fits your style.

My therapist used a blend of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and schema-informed techniques. Plus, the sessions were both insightful and grounded. They also explicitly provide support for neurodivergent issues like ADHD and ASD. 

It’s also relatively convenient that they have two clinics: Lutwyche and Aspley. Plus, both locations have disability access. 

They’re also upfront about fees. The cost difference between general and clinical psychologists is clearly listed, along with Medicare rebates and NDIS billing rates. 

The only drawback is that their overall pricing remains on the higher side. For a standard session, they charge $290. Even with the rebate, my out-of-pocket cost was still over $140. They also have a $115 fee for cancellations or no-shows.

Kind counsellors

“Jessica King was my counsellor in 2023. She had such a positive impact on me that I am googling her name to leave a positive review years later! Although I did not see Jess at this particular practice, I am sure she is still the same warm and understanding woman and I cannot recommend her enough. During a very difficult time, I saw four counsellors and one psychologist, and Jessica was by far the most helpful. She made me feel cared-for and supported when I needed it most, and i will never forget that kindness! I never had the chance to thank her properly, but thank you, Jess! I hope you feel confident in the incredible work you do and know the lasting impact you make in people’s lives. All the very best of luck!!!”

April Alyssa, Google Review

Friendly staff

“I have seen a psychologist here on and off for a few years and they have been amazing and incredibly helpful during difficult times. All the staff are so friendly and helpful. Wonderful place and I always recommend to people!”

Lydia van der Wiel, Google Review

Counselling Works has been operating for more than 16 years. I love that their mission is to provide affordable and effective therapy to individuals and communities. They are also registered as a National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provider.

The moment I stepped inside the clinic, it immediately felt warm and grounded. It’s the kind of environment where you don’t feel judged for needing help. The staff were approachable, and their communication was consistently calm and reassuring.

Their therapists are all registered and trained in CBT, ACT, and solution-focused therapy. As for who I got, he had a way of explaining complex ideas in simple, conversational terms. That made our sessions feel very collaborative.

Another great thing about them is their “Love Safe.” It’s a relationship education program that focuses on safe, secure attachment in relationships. 

While some services are bulk-billable (through Medicare), not all sessions/therapists may be covered. I suggest always checking with them before confirming your appointment.  

Supportive team

“Thank you Marina and the team for your ongoing support and tools my children and I apply into our lives to live a happier and fulfilling life. I highly recommend Counselling Works. Thank you so much.

Mila Paripovic, Google Review

Helpful and compassionate

“I’ve had several sessions with Marina from Counselling Works Brisbane. Marina has been extremely helpful and compassionate with myself and my particular situation. Her knowledge and support has helped me to develop techniques to tackle my problems while also being able to just listen to me and vent my frustrations at times and talk me through real-life solutions that work. I really would recommend Counselling Works Brisbane as their service is professional and second to none. Also what I liked is that Marina was always available when I needed a session the day I requested as well as in the evenings through the week and even on Sunday!”

Joel Sawley, Google Review

Psychology Consultants offers one of the most professional and well-coordinated experiences I’ve had in Brisbane. 

Their intake process is efficient. Plus, their fee schedule is clearly laid out, and they provide detailed rebate guidance even before your sessions.

The team here comprises highly qualified clinical psychologists and registered general psychologists. 

They offer a wide range of services, from individual sessions to couples therapy. My therapist used CBT along with a schema-informed approach, which helped me understand longstanding patterns. 

I also appreciate that they offer comprehensive Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) for workplaces. It’s something you won’t find widely available at many other clinics in Brisbane.

Their clinic environment is thoughtful and warm, but still clinically thorough. I never felt rushed, and each session built naturally on the last.

The main thing to consider here is budget. Their fee structure is transparent, but the out-of-pocket costs are higher than those of community-based options. Couples counselling here also tends to fall outside Medicare rebates. 

Well qualified 

“An excellent group of well qualified Psychologists with Directors who are the best in the business.   I have no hesitation in recommending this practice to both clients and referring doctors.”

Ken Arthur, Google Review

Brilliant psychologists

“Been with them for a few years now. Amazing service and Kylie is a brilliant psychologist! I love seeing her and the receptionists each session.”

Ainslie, Google Review