THE HELP CENTER

Find Your Answers Here

DO I HAVE TO KEEP SEEING YOU IF I DONT LIKE YOU

Absolutely not. One of the most important aspects of the change and healing process is the relationship between the the counsellor and the client. If at any point you feel that I am not the right fit for you, then it is your right as a client to look for another counsellor. I am a professional, and will not be offended!

WHAT CAN I EXPECT IN MY FIRST SESSION?

The first session can be really worrying and anxiety-inducing. Working together we will go at your pace. You do not have to talk about anything you don’t want to! The first session is mostly about getting to know each other and establishing some expectations and goals.

WHAT ARE YOUR FEES?

Counselling sessions are $100 an hour, however a sliding scale is available as part of this service.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN COUNSELLING, PSYCHOTHERAPY AND PSYCHOLOGY

Psychology is very science-based, studying the human mind, emotions, cognitive abilities, memory, perception, intelligence, attention, and motivation, as well as the biological functions that drive these processes. Psychologists apply this knowledge to help people and the community find solutions to real-life problems, such as improving mental health, learning, performance, relationships, and societal cohesiveness

Counselling focuses on enhancing people’s capacity to cope with specific life challenges such as relationship endings, bereavement, and anxiety. Seeing a counsellor helps people resolve crises, reduce distress, develop goals for change and improve their wellbeing. Counselling also assists with problem-solving and developing inner resources to move on with life in meaningful ways.

Psychotherapy focuses to a greater extent on achieving change in the

personality or self. Often people notice that the nature of their personal difficulties is repetitive. Similar issues arise time and again in different contexts and relationships. Psychotherapy helps people achieve better self-understanding and change long-standing patterns of behaviour that may be disrupting relationships, work and study.

My therapeutic approach incorporates both counselling and psychotherapeutic principles and practices

WHAT DO I NEED FOR AN ONLINE COUNSELLING SESSION?

For a video-conferencing session, a stable internet connection in a private space is essential, as well as a webcam or camera and clear audio. You will require the Zoom application and an email address. We can discuss what this means when scheduling the session.
For telephone sessions, you need a secure phone line with a reliable connection.

DO YOU OFFER REBATES?

Unfortunately, counselling is not able to use Medicare Rebates yet, though all of us in the counselling industry are hoping this will change soon!

WHAT IF I NEED TO CANCEL?

I require at least 48 hours’ notice for cancellation; if we can’t reschedule or change your appointment, you will be charged a cancellation fee of $25.

WHAT ABOUT PRIVACY AND CONFIDENTIALITY?

I ensure a safe, secure and private environment where all matters discussed are kept confidential. However, as a counsellor in Victoria, I am a mandatory reporter. This means I am legally and ethically required to disclose certain information to the appropriate authorities if:

You are a danger to yourself or others
I am subpoenaed by a court
You have given me the approval to discuss the material with another professional or agency (for example, a lawyer, your doctor, or employer).
For more information on mandatory reporting, please visit https://www.pacfa.org.au/practitioner-resources/ethical-standards/

WHAT ARE YOUR QUALIFICATIONS?

I have a Post-Graduate Diploma in Counselling, an Undergraduate in Philosophy and Psychology, and am currently studying my Masters in Counselling and Psychotherapy. I am also a member of the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA).