Do I need a referral?
No, you don’t need a referral – isn’t that great? The easiest way to book is online. Alternatively, you can contact me directly to schedule an appointment via phone, text, or email – it’s that simple.
How long is a session?
Individual counselling sessions typically run for one hour. However, some clients prefer 90-minute or even 2-hour sessions, and I always aim to tailor therapy to suit your needs.
For couples, I strongly recommend allowing 90 minutes per session. This ensures both partners have the time and space to express their feelings and needs in a safe, supportive environment.
How many sessions will I need?
Every person and situation is unique. While most clients benefit from at least 3–6 sessions, some experience significant relief after just one session. For more complex or deeply rooted issues, such as those stemming from early attachment trauma, or complex mental health issues, therapy may extend over several months.
After a few sessions, we’ll review your progress together. I’ll always be transparent about what I believe is contributing to the issue and what’s needed to address it. From there, we can structure the counselling to suit your goals.
Do you have after hours appointments?
Yes, I offer a range of session times, including Saturdays, to accommodate busy schedules. For clients who are time-poor, I also provide Healing Holiday therapy sessions. These can take place in my counselling room, at your home, or even at a relaxing destination of your choice.
Click here to learn more about Healing Holidays.
Does seeking counselling mean I’m weak?
Absolutely not! Everyone needs help, advice, or support at some point in their lives. Seeking counselling is a sign of courage and wisdom – it shows you’re brave enough to face challenges and proactive enough to seek solutions. That’s something to be proud of, don’t you think?
I’m scared I’ll break down if I start talking about all this stuff …
It’s completely normal to feel this way. Many people fear being vulnerable or worry that something is “wrong” with them. Others avoid their emotions by blaming others or suppressing their feelings.
In my counselling room, you’ll find a safe space to let it all out. Many clients feel a sense of relief after shedding tears they’ve held back for so long. Remember, tears often express what words cannot. You might be surprised at how much better you feel afterward.
What if I don’t know what to say or struggle to talk?
That’s okay – taking this step is already a big achievement. It’s my role to guide you, ask the right questions, and help you uncover what’s contributing to your challenges.
If talking feels too difficult, I can use alternative therapies to help you express your feelings and needs. Often, this process brings clarity, and clients begin to understand their problems in a new light.
Do I need to bring anything?
No, just bring yourself. If you have any documents or items that you believe are relevant to your situation, you’re welcome to bring them along. Prior to your first session, you’ll be asked to complete an intake form. A confidential link to this form will be included in your NEW CLIENT appointment confirmation email. It really helps me if you complete your intake form at least a week prior to your initial session.
What if I can’t attend face-to-face sessions?
While some clients prefer face-to-face sessions, they’re not always practical. Whether you’re caring for a loved one, have young children, live in rural Australia, or simply feel more comfortable at home, online video sessions can be a fantastic alternative.
Many first-time online clients are pleasantly surprised by how warm and effective these sessions can be. Additionally, I offer email and text counselling, and in special circumstances, I can arrange home visits to ensure you receive the support you need.
We live in rural Australia and can’t access regular counselling. Can you help?
Absolutely! In some cases, it may be more practical and cost-effective for me to travel to you. I can work intensively with your family over a few days, providing focused support tailored to your needs. Following this, we can continue with online video, phone, or email counselling to maintain progress.
You would need to cover my travel and accommodation costs, but I have extensive experience working in rural and remote areas. Alternatively, all therapy
Are my session notes confidential?
Confidentiality is a cornerstone of effective counselling. Your session notes are private and will not be shared without your consent, except in rare cases where they are subpoenaed by a court. If you’d like me to liaise with other health practitioners to support your mental and physical health, I can do so with your permission.
I take great care in how I document session notes, always prioritising your privacy and wellbeing.
Do you offer Mental Health Plans or rebates from private health insurers?
Yes, I hold Provider Numbers with the following private health insurers:
- AHM
- BUPA
- Doctor’s Health
- Medibank
- Phoenix Health
- Police Health
- St Luke’s Health
It’s important to check with your private health provider to confirm that they cover counselling sessions with a Master’s level counsellor, as some policies may only cover sessions with a psychologist. If your provider is not listed above, it’s still worth contacting them to see if your level of cover includes counselling rebates. Many providers offer rebates without requiring a specific provider number.
If your provider doesn’t offer a rebate, consider questioning them about why counselling isn’t covered. Alternatively, you can choose to switch to a provider that supports counselling services.
Unfortunately, my fees are not eligible for a Medicare rebate. Under the Medicare rebate scheme, you can access 6 sessions with a psychologist for a diagnosed mental illness after obtaining a GP referral. An additional 4 sessions may be granted upon review by your doctor. Beyond this, higher psychologist fees typically apply for continued counselling.
It’s also worth noting that relationship counselling is not covered under the Medicare rebate scheme. My therapeutic approach focuses on holistic mental and relational wellness rather than solely addressing mental illness. We hope that, in the future, the government will recognise the importance of this wellness-focused mental health perspective.
How do I make a complaint if there is something troubling or upsetting for me in my counselling experience?
This is an important question, and I want to ensure your counselling experience is both professional and ethical. From the very first session, I regularly check in on your welfare. I observe your body language, listen to your verbal responses, and directly ask for feedback—both positive and negative.
I welcome any negative feedback, as it helps me tailor my approach to better meet your needs. If you find it difficult to provide feedback face-to-face, I encourage you to text or email me.
Your rights are also protected, and you can contact the following organisations if you wish to lodge a formal complaint:
While I hope we can always resolve any concerns together, I understand that sometimes therapeutic relationships can face challenges. Rebuilding trust and connection after a breakdown can often lead to pivotal therapeutic healing. So, please don’t hesitate to share what’s troubling you—together, we can work through it to ensure your needs are met.
