Confidential support for current and ex-serving ADF members and their families
At Warming Light Counselling, we provide specialist mental health support to veterans, current-serving ADF members, and their families under Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling and through DVA-funded services.
With a deep respect for the unique experiences of military life and the impact of service-related stress, trauma, and transition, we offer a calm, grounded space to process what you’ve been through, whether you’re dealing with anxiety, trauma, grief, moral injury, burnout, or difficulties adjusting to civilian life.
Warming Light Counselling’s approach is trauma-informed and includes:
EMDR therapy for trauma and distressing memories
Values-based therapy to help you rebuild identity and direction
Support for moral injury and complex grief
Attachment-informed strategies to rebuild trust and connection
I understand that military life often involves being in “go mode”, always on alert, always prepared. Therapy is a place where you don’t have to hold it all together.
Common areas of support
PTSD and service-related trauma
Grief and loss, including loss of identity or purpose
Anxiety, depression, and stress management
Sleep issues, nightmares, and hypervigilance
Anger, shame, and emotional numbness
Adjusting to civilian life after service
Relationship strain, parenting stress, and family connection
Coping with physical illness or chronic pain related to service
Eligibility:
Open Arms' counselling and support services are available to:
Current serving Royal Australian Navy, Australian Army and Royal Australian Air Force personnel
ADF personnel transitioning to civilian life
ex-serving members
partners and children of serving and ex-serving personnel
ex-partners who are co-parenting
reservists with one day continuous full time service or hazardous service.
How to Access Open Arms Service
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Reach out directly to Open Arms at 1800 011 046 for a confidential conversation. Open Arms offers a 24/7 helpline and crisis support.
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You can ask to be referred to Warming Light Counselling
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They will assess your eligibility and then contact Warming Light Counselling for you should you be eligible.
FAQS
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Open Arms keeps your information confidential and will not share your details with the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA), the Australian Defence Force (ADF), or any other government agencies or external parties without your permission.
Information is only shared in rare and exceptional circumstances—such as when there is a serious risk to your safety or someone else's, in the case of serious criminal matters, or when legally required.
If your referral comes through an ADF medical officer or Defence psychologist, brief updates about your treatment may be provided to the referring ADF authority as part of standard reporting requirements.
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No, you do not need a Mental Health treatment plan from your GP.
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Open Arms will reach out to Warming Light Counselling with your details and we’ll get in touch with you to arrange an appointment.
Ready to reach out?
If you're a veteran, current-serving member, or family member seeking support, you're not alone. You don’t have to do this on your own.
Whether you’re ready to begin counselling or just want to ask a few questions, Warming Light Counselling is here to help.
Get in touch today to book a session or learn more about how Open Arms or DVA-funded services can support you.