MR Tim Coates
Counsellor, Solution Oriented Counsellor
Warm Pathways
Toowong, Brisbane QLD 4066
In Person + Online Therapy
Philosophy & Vision
Like the ever-changing tides, life has its ebbs and flows. Having navigated my own personal storms, I now guide others to find their inner strength when buffeted by emotional turmoil. My island-themed office provides a serene atmosphere for processing grief's profound pain and rediscovering sources of hope and purpose. With compassionate listening and therapy expertise, I walk alongside people as they learn to ride the tides of change. Let's weather the storms and find your inner anchor together.
Background
Having served as a parish administrator, I understand the complex emotions that arise when families face the loss of a loved one. With compassion and care, I meet with grieving families to collect photos and prepare personalized funeral service guides. My aim is to make this process as stress-free as possible.
Beyond funerals, I also counsel people struggling with all types of loss - from relationship breakups to job loss to shattered dreams. My role is to listen with an empathetic heart, validate emotions, and gently guide people through their darkest moments. Whether it's the loss of a loved one, a relationship, or one's sense of identity, I help people process grief, find closure, and rediscover meaning and purpose.
Services
Quality Provision
I work with folks of all ages, and I'm here to tackle any issue that comes your way. Loneliness is something I'm particularly passionate about helping with.
When you come to me, you're not just a client; you're someone I truly want to understand and help. It takes courage to reach out to a counselor and open up about your challenges. At Warm Pathways, we've got a warm and welcoming space. You'll always have my support, and we'll work together to figure out the best way forward.
Areas of Special Interest
Accreditations
- MSc (Comp) - 1998 - QUT
- Assoc. Deg. Theology - 2023 - CSU
- Dip of Counselling - 2020 - AIPC
Modalities
ACT - Christian Counselling - Mindfulness - Person Centred - Solution Oriented
Therapy Approach
I create a safe space for people to give voice to their pain, whether preparing funeral guides or healing from breakups. Through validating struggles, reflecting on memories, and rediscovering purpose, I support people in their darkest moments. My approach draws from ACT techniques to help you build psychological flexibility when grappling with loss.
With mindfulness, we'll tune into emotions without judgment. Using narrative therapy, we'll reconstruct your story to embrace new possibilities. Grief's tides ebb and flow in their own time. Together we'll find your inner lighthouse again amidst the waves, renew your sense of meaning, and build resilience. I won't hurry the healing or minimize your suffering. I'll walk alongside you.
Professional Associations
- Australian Counselling Association
Practice Locations
10A Pictavia St
Toowong QLD 4066
Appointments
Every time we meet up for a counselling session, it's all about you. It's your chance to chat, be heard, and feel like what matters to you really matters. We can meet in person, over the phone, or online (preferred) - whatever works best for you.
Fees & Insurance
$95 for 1 hour session
$120 for 1.5 hours session
Payment Options
Bank Transfer, EFT, Credit Card
Contact Tim
Please contact me to make an appointment
A conversation with Tim Coates
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Life. I have actually written a blog about this. But the short answer is that I don't want anyone to go down the path I did. I have always been someone that listened to people and help (support) where I could, but it took a life event to make the change. In some ways I find being a counsellor is a calling or vocation and if I am able to make a positive difference in someone's life . . .
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Regarding philosophical influences on my professional and personal development, I've been naturally drawn to a solution-focused approach from my software development background. It's all about identifying issues and finding effective solutions. However, I'm equally drawn to narrative therapies, where clients can share their stories and collaboratively discover their paths forward. These philosophies have shaped my counseling style, allowing me to provide a well-rounded approach to address clients' needs and personal growth.
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I have a particular interest in coping strategies and guiding individuals in finding what best suits their needs. The journey of exploring effective coping mechanisms is a significant aspect of my work, as it empowers people to navigate life's challenges and build resilience.
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I don't follow just one method, but rather, I blend various approaches to provide a personalized experience for each client. I bring in the warmth and empathy of Person-Centred Therapy to create a safe space. We'll also tackle short-term goals together with Solution-Focused Brief Therapy. I love weaving in aspects of Narrative Therapy to help you rewrite your story and find empowerment. Plus, we'll work on being present and managing stress through Mindfulness-Based Therapy. It's all about finding what works best for you.
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This one is a little tricky to answer. And the real answer it that it depends on what the client brings into the room and each case is unique. I would like to think that client gets something out of the first session, and I treat every session as though it is their last. At the same time, and complex cases, this will not always be the case. I also check in with the client to ask them how they are travelling.
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From a client's perspective, and yes, I've been in that seat too, therapy has truly transformed me into a better person - it's a work in progress.
It's given me a toolkit, I can use - like deep-breathing exercises, mindfulness activities, and even phone apps, that I can use not only for my own growth but to support those around me. Many of these resources are accessible and often free. Through therapy, I've become more self-aware, empathetic, and better equipped to handle life's ups and downs with greater resilience. It's been an incredible journey, helping me grow and evolve into a more compassionate and self-aware individual. -
What I love most about being a therapist is the privilege of listening to someone tell their story. It's truly remarkable to be trusted with the intimate experiences and emotions of others. Every story is unique, and helping clients navigate their journey and find their own strengths is incredibly rewarding.
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Yes. Nearly every day - it happens when you have perfectionist traits (but I am working on that)
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One of the big challenges we're facing today is this kind of paradox. On one hand, technology has us more connected than ever, but it's also left a lot of people feeling isolated and disconnected. We've shifted from in-person relationships to virtual ones, and that's brought some real challenges, especially when it comes to making those genuine, meaningful connections.
Plus, because we're always plugged in, it can be really tough to give our full attention to the person right in front of us when they need it most. And constant connectivity also make it difficult to truly listen. With all the distractions around us, it's easy to just skim the surface of conversations instead of really engaging and listening deeply. That's why we need to practice active and empathetic listening to foster more meaningful connections. -
Two books - Lost Connections by Johann Hari, and Man's Search for Meaning by Victor Frankl.
"There was no need to be ashamed of tears, for tears bore witness that a man had the greatest of courage, the courage to suffer.†(from Man's Search for Meaning)