- 16 years experience
- ACA counsellor
- Relationship focus
About David
David Chittenden is an ACA counsellor with 16 years of experience. He focuses on practical support for everyday stress, anxiety and relationship concerns. He uses direct conversation and tailored plans to help people move forward when life feels overwhelming.
David helps people with self-esteem, motivation and coping with big life changes. He also supports those dealing with grief, trauma, intimacy-related concerns and ADHD. He works with individuals and couples, and helps people facing parenting, fatherhood and blended family challenges.
His work includes a wide range of additional issues such as chronic illness and pain, fertility and sexual culture topics like BDSM and kink. He also assists with career stress, anger, codependency and communication problems. The aim is to identify manageable steps rather than rely on one-size-fits-all solutions.
In sessions David adapts the conversation to each person. He combines practical strategies with deeper exploration when needed. He treats people with respect and sensitivity and adjusts the pace to suit individual needs.
Taking the first step can feel difficult. David presents a straightforward intake process and helps people set clear, achievable goals. He encourages a collaborative approach so clients have a role in shaping their work together.
David helps people with self-esteem, motivation and coping with big life changes. He also supports those dealing with grief, trauma, intimacy-related concerns and ADHD. He works with individuals and couples, and helps people facing parenting, fatherhood and blended family challenges.
His work includes a wide range of additional issues such as chronic illness and pain, fertility and sexual culture topics like BDSM and kink. He also assists with career stress, anger, codependency and communication problems. The aim is to identify manageable steps rather than rely on one-size-fits-all solutions.
In sessions David adapts the conversation to each person. He combines practical strategies with deeper exploration when needed. He treats people with respect and sensitivity and adjusts the pace to suit individual needs.
Taking the first step can feel difficult. David presents a straightforward intake process and helps people set clear, achievable goals. He encourages a collaborative approach so clients have a role in shaping their work together.
Therapeutic approaches and how they translate online
David commonly draws on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Existential Therapy in online work. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on noticing unhelpful thought and behaviour patterns and testing small changes to improve mood and coping; it can help with anxiety, depression and stress. Existential Therapy looks at meaning, values and life choices, helping people clarify what matters and make decisions that fit their priorities. The Gottman Method is another option he uses for relationship work, centred on communication skills and rebuilding connection.Finding the right approach is part of the process. David works collaboratively to identify which method or combination best fits each person's needs, goals and preferences. He adapts plans as progress is reviewed so the work stays relevant and practical.
Session formats are not specified here, so confirm the current options before booking. Online therapy can make it easier to fit sessions around work, family and other commitments. It also lets people use quieter surroundings, reduce travel time and choose shorter check-ins when that suits their day. Approaches like CBT translate well to remote sessions because they use structured exercises and worksheets that can be shared and discussed together.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
LGBTTrauma and abuseGriefIntimacy-related issuesEating disordersParenting issuesAnger managementCareer difficultiesDepressionCoachingCompassion fatigueADHD
Additional focus areas
BDSM, kink, and alternative sex cultureBlended family issuesChronic pain, illness, and disabilityCo-morbidityCodependencyCommitment issuesCommunication problemsControl issuesCoping with natural or human-caused disasterDissociationDivorce and separationFamily of origin issuesFamily problemsFatherhood issuesFertility issuesFirst responder issuesGender dysphoriaGuilt and shameImmigration issuesInfidelityIsolation / lonelinessJealousyLife purposeMen's issuesMidlife crisisMoney and financial issuesMulticultural concernsPanic disorder and panic attacksPolyamory / non-monogamous relationshipsPostpartum depressionPost-traumatic stressPregnancy and childbirthPrejudice and discriminationProcess addiction (porn, exercise, gambling)Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)Self-harmSexual assault and abuseSexualitySmoking / vaping cessationSocial anxiety and phobiaTraumatic brain injuryVisually impairedWomen's issuesWorkplace issuesYoung adult issues
Therapeutic approaches
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Existential TherapyGottman MethodHypnotherapyJungian TherapyMindfulness TherapyPsychodynamic TherapySolution-Focused TherapyTrauma-Focused TherapyInternal Family Systems
Experience
16+ years
Credentials
See below
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of concerns does David help with?
He supports people with stress, anxiety, relationships, family and self-esteem issues, plus grief, trauma, intimacy-related concerns and ADHD.
How would you describe his therapeutic style?
His approach is practical and collaborative, blending direct conversation with tailored strategies and deeper exploration as needed.
What is his background and level of experience?
David has 16 years of professional work experience in Australia working across a broad range of emotional and relationship issues.
What credentials does he hold and where is he based?
He is credentialed with the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) and practices from Australia.
In which languages can sessions be conducted?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can international clients work with him?
He does not accept international clients at this time.
How are fees and payment handled?
Cost varies with location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription that can be cancelled at any time.
What is the first step to begin therapy?
To start, select the continue button on this profile, complete the short matching questionnaire, and schedule according to therapist availability.