Jacob Brightwell Psychotherapist and Counsellor at J. B. Therapy

Jacob Brightwell

Image: Mim Sterling Photography

Jacob can offer you a supportive, confidential, and judgement free environment to help you work through life’s problems.

Jacob is a credentialed counsellor in Australia being a registered PACFA member, (Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia) and a Level II Member of the Australia Counselling Association (ACA). Additionally Jacob is a provisional psychologist completing his final stages of psychology training and is a member of the Australian Psychologist Society (APS).

After providing counselling to a varied clientele for several years at a community based organisation Jacob is embarking on private practice in order to reach more of those in need of assistance. Lack of access to mental health services is a real concern for many people and with great understanding J. B. Therapy hopes to help alleviate this. It also reflects Jacob’s fundamental belief that mental health services should be available to all.

Viewing that life issues are complex and are often influenced many factors, Jacob views the wellness model and the biopsychosocial approach as central to resolving difficulties in life. A client-centered therapist, Jacob uses cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) while incorporating other evidence-based modalities like acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and solution-focused therapy. Evidence-based practices are employed because using techniques proven to be effective within the scientific literature increases the likelihood of success in therapy. Employing a strengths-based approach, Jacob believes that individuals are the experts when it comes to their lives and have the resources required to overcome their issues with some assistance by the therapist. Empowering individuals to become more resilient and attain greater mental flexibility, individuals learn to become more confident in their ability to navigate life’s journey

Most importantly Jacob endeavours to provide a safe place where individuals can discuss their issues and experiences in a non-judgemental and confidential way. Understandably it can be difficult and uncomfortable to talk about personal matters, with this in mind the therapeutic space at J. B. Therapy is a place where empathy, compassion, and understanding resides.

Qualifications

A firm believer in life-long learning, Jacob has studied extensively to improve his knowledge base and skill set in order to provide the most professional service possible. Completing undergraduate degrees in psychology and humanities in New Zealand; Jacob has completed the following university qualifications within Australia

  • Bachelor of Behavioural Science, Monash University (Psychology and Sociology)

  • Graduate Diploma in Criminology, University of Sydney

  • Bachelor of Social Science, Charles Sturt University (Honours in Psychology 1st Class)

  • Master of Criminology, University of Sydney

  • Master of Forensic Mental Health, University of New South Wales

  • Master of Counselling, Monash University

  • Currently studying a Master of Professional Psychology, La Trobe University

Professional Associations

  • Member of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA)

  • Member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS)

“You are the expert when it comes to your life and you also have the resources required to overcome your issues with some assistance”

Jacob Brightwell Psychotherapist and Counsellor J. B. Therapy

Image: Mim Stirling Photography

“The person is not the problem, the problem is the problem” -Michael White