Meet the Team

Rhys founded Solid Hope Counselling in 2018, driven by a passion for addressing the spiritual and mental well-being of individuals. His journey began in his late teens and has since involved helping numerous individuals through various challenges, including divorce, trauma, depression, marital issues, relationship problems, sexual issues, and anxiety.

Throughout his 20s, Rhys studied ministry and counselling while serving in different roles within several churches, such as youth leader, media director, teams director, prayer team leader, and acting associate pastor. His experiences in pastoral care ignited a strong desire to engage in full-time community counselling, leading to the establishment of Solid Hope.

Recognizing the limitations of traditional pastoral care, Rhys expanded his expertise by studying various psychotherapy models and evaluating counselling practices through a Christian lens. This commitment to professional growth culminated in accredited studies in Counselling & Psychotherapy, including the completion of a Master of Counselling.

Outside of his dedication to helping others, Rhys values time spent on personal interests such as reading, hiking, and enjoying the beach. Though originally from Melbourne, he has resided on the Gold Coast for the past 13 years with his wife, Amy. Rhys holds a Master of Counselling, a Bachelor of Arts in Ministry, and a Graduate Diploma in Counselling & Psychotherapy (Spiritual). He is also a member of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA member #27101) and part of the College of Supervisors.

• Individual Counselling – Supporting anxiety, depression, addiction, personal growth, emotional wellbeing, and resilience.

• Pre-Marriage & Relationship Counselling – Strengthening communication, connection, and understanding between partners.

• Family Counselling – Helping families navigate challenges and build healthier relationships.

• Mental Health Support – Providing care for anxiety, depression, stress, and other emotional difficulties.

• NDIS Support – Providing care for those who are neurodivergent.

• Trauma Counselling – Offering a safe and compassionate space for healing and recovery.

• Grief & Loss Counselling – Providing gentle support as you process loss and find hope in the journey of healing.

• Pastoral Supervision – Supporting those in ministry or faith-based roles to reflect, grow, and sustain well-being.

• Professional Supervision – Guiding practitioners and professionals in reflective practice and personal development.

Amy Evans brings over 15 years of experience in Business Administration, Executive Support, and Operations Management to her role at Solid Hope Counselling. With a strong background in organisational leadership and a heart for people, Amy ensures the smooth day-to-day running of the practice while providing essential support to the counselling team. Amy also is certified to conduct our Pre-Marriage facilitation, walking couples through practical ways to build strong foundations before couples say “I do.” Find our more here.

Holding a Bachelor of Ministry, Mental Health First Aid Training, and Pastoral Care training, Amy is deeply passionate about the care and support industry and finds great purpose in contributing to an environment that fosters healing, connection, and hope.

For the majority of her church life, Amy has actively served in various leadership roles within her church community — including kids and youth ministry, the prayer team, and as a small group leader. Her faith and commitment to community continue to shape her approach to both work and life.

Outside of church, Amy enjoys facilitating community socials that bring people together, guided by her belief that we are created for connection; and in it dwells strength and joy.

Amy is honoured to support her husband of 13 years, Rhys Evans, founder of Solid Hope Counselling, as the practice continues to grow. She considers it a great privilege to play an active role in a company that exists to bring hope and restoration to others.

• Pre-marriage facilitation through a 6 week strength based program. Suitable for couples before they get married or in the first initial stages of their marriage and wanting to grow in relationship based skills.

Please note that Sophia has now retired. We have greatly valued working with her and wish her all the very best in this next chapter.

If you were previously seeing Sophia, we would be happy to help transition you to another one of our counsellors for ongoing support. Please reach out to our team for further information or assistance with arranging your continued care.