David Chittenden, ACA

David Chittenden is a counsellor credentialed with the ACA (Australian Counselling Association) who has built a practice over 16 years of professional experience. He focuses on helping people navigate stress and anxiety, relationship tensions, family conflicts and the motivational challenges that affect self-esteem and confidence. He also supports clients facing extreme life changes and works with individuals, couples, families and people with disabilities.

David approaches each person with respect, sensitivity and compassion, and adapts conversations and treatment plans to meet each client’s specific needs. He frames therapy as a collaborative process, tailoring interventions to the practical goals a person brings to sessions. Beginning therapy can feel daunting; he acknowledges the courage involved in taking that first step and aims to offer steady, thoughtful support as people move forward.

Therapeutic approaches for online counselling and relationships

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying unhelpful thought patterns and practical behaviour changes to relieve symptoms of anxiety, low mood and stress. It uses structured techniques to set goals and develop coping skills that apply to day-to-day challenges.

The Gottman Method is a relationship-focused approach that helps couples improve communication, resolve conflict and rebuild connection through evidence-informed exercises and shared goals. It is useful for people seeking to strengthen partnerships and manage recurring relationship problems.

Existential Therapy explores meaning, values and choice, helping people face difficult life transitions, uncertainty and questions about identity. It supports people who want to deepen self-understanding and make deliberate decisions about their lives.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic journey and David works collaboratively to identify what will suit each person best. He will discuss options and tailor sessions to a client’s needs, goals and preferences, and can involve appropriately qualified or registered professionals when indicated.

Online therapy offers practical flexibility - sessions can be arranged by video call, phone, live chat or text-based messaging to fit different schedules and needs. These options make it easier to access regular support, maintain continuity of care and work on goals from wherever a person is based in Australia.