Bradley Benson
I didn’t come into this work wanting to just fix problems. I came into it because I’ve always been drawn to understanding people, how we connect, how we protect ourselves, and how we make sense of the experiences that shape us.
Like many of the people I work with, my interest in therapy isn’t just professional, it’s personal. I understand what it’s like to navigate identity, relationships, vulnerability, and the quiet internal questions of who am I, what do I actually want, and why do I feel this way. Those questions don’t always have quick answers, but they matter. And having a space to explore them without judgment can be life changing.
In my work, I focus on creating that kind of space. One where you don’t feel analysed or worked on, but understood. Where you can show up as you are, whether that’s overwhelmed, disconnected, unsure, or just tired of carrying things on your own.
I work with both individuals and couples, and I’m particularly drawn to the complexity of relationships. Not just romantic relationships, but the relationship we have with ourselves. Often, the patterns we find ourselves in, like conflict, withdrawal, anxiety, and self doubt, make sense when we look at the bigger picture of our lives. My role is to help you understand those patterns, not judge them, and support you in shifting them in a way that feels real and sustainable.
Alongside relationship work, I support people navigating trauma, including PTSD, complex trauma, and attachment wounds. I’ve worked with survivors of sexual abuse and assault, as well as individuals in high pressure roles like first responders. I understand how trauma can live beneath the surface, in the body, in relationships, and in the way we respond to stress, often without us even realising.
As a gay man, I’m also deeply committed to creating affirming spaces for LGBTQIA+ individuals and couples. I understand that for many, identity is not just about self expression, it’s about safety, belonging, and being seen. Whether you’re navigating coming out, relationships, shame, or simply trying to feel more comfortable in yourself, this is a space where you don’t have to explain or justify who you are.
Therapy with me isn’t about giving you a list of strategies and sending you on your way. It’s about working together to understand what’s going on beneath the surface, building awareness, and creating meaningful change at a pace that feels right for you.
I work with individuals and couples who want to move beyond surface level coping and develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships.
My approach is relational, trauma informed, and grounded in evidence based therapies including Gottman Method, CBT, ACT, and psychodynamic frameworks. In practice, this means we don’t just focus on what’s happening, we explore why it’s happening, and how it connects to your experiences, patterns, and needs.
In sessions, you can expect a space that feels calm, supportive, and honest. I will gently challenge where needed, but always in a way that feels respectful and collaborative.
Whether you’re navigating anxiety, relationship challenges, identity, or the impact of past experiences, the work is about building clarity, connection, and a stronger sense of self.
Education
Masters of Counselling; Torrens University
Bachelor level study in Psychology
Trainings
Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level 1, Level 2 planned
Trauma informed practice and working with complex trauma
Training in CBT, ACT, and mindfulness based approaches as well as psychodynamic therapy
Ongoing professional development in relationship therapy and attachment
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Individuals | 50 minutes
$150 (GST inclusive)
Couples | 50 minutes
$210 (GST Inclusive)
Extended couples session available on inquiry.
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Not currently applicable. Some private health funds may provide rebates for counselling services — clients are encouraged to check directly with their provider.
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I am a Level 2 member of the Australian Counselling Association and adhere to the Code of Ethics and Practice of the Association for Counsellors in Australia.
The Place Within operates on the land of the Yugarabul, Yuggera, Jagera and Turrbal Peoples. We acknowledge these peoples as the traditional custodians of this land. We pay respect to Elders past and present and extend that respect to all First Nations Peoples. We are committed to honouring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples’ wisdom, culture, dreaming and ongoing connection to Country. Sovereignty was never ceded.
We also recognise the strength and diversity of all marginalised communities, including LGBTQIA+ people, and are committed to fostering an inclusive, affirming space for all.