FAQ
Do I need a referral to see a Counsellor?
No you don’t need a referral to see me. Simply contact me by phone, email or a text to book an appointment.
How long is each session?
Each session is 1 hour. Sometime clients prefer sessions to be 90 minutes especially if there is a lot to be worked through. I try to work with what suits my clients best so together we can decided what works best for you.
For our first session, as we need to get to know each other, I recommend that we have a 90 minute session so we can share information and begin to work on a few strategies that you can begin to use.
How much is each session?
Details are located in the page below, please click the title to read further:
How many sessions will I need?
Since, as you’d be aware, no two people are the same, and each client presents with different issues to be worked through. As a general rule, most clients require between 3 and 6 sessions. Some clients experience clarity and relief after just one session, whilst clients, with complicated issues may require counselling that lasts many months. However, as we attend each session we will discuss the progress being made, and work out a plan, together, for exactly how many sessions you require.
If you take notes, does anyone else get to see them?
Yes I do take notes, as it is important for me to be able to refresh my memory before each session. However, my notes are treated with the utmost confidentiality, and I do not share my notes with anyone. Of course if you would like me to liaise with other medical professionals, on your behalf, in order to help you achieve the best possible physical and mental health, I will do so; but only with your express, written permission.
If my notes were to be subpoenaed by a court of law, I must supply them as requested. I am always mindful that protecting the welfare of my clients is my first priority, and therefore I write my notes accordingly.
If I need counselling, does that make me a weak person?
No it doesn’t, it makes you a brave person. It takes a great deal of courage to recognise that you have a problem, and that you need help and support to work through it. Seeking counselling proves that you are a brave, sensible and astute person.
I am not sure I’ll even know where to start to explain my problem.
That is okay. Coming to see a counsellor is a big step for anyone to take, and I understand this. We can take things a slowly as you like and you can take your time, to find the words you need to talk about your problem. And if words don’t come easily, there are other therapies we can work with to help you clarify your thoughts and feelings.
I think if I start talking about my problems, I’m going to lose it, and fall in a crying heap.
You know what? If you end up in a crying heap, that is just fine! Tears are very healing and for some clients, a counselling room is the first safe place they have found where they are able to cry. Tears often express what words can not, they speak of pain, loss, anger, frustration and many other emotions. So if you need to cry; just cry. I’ll have plenty of tissues for you.
Do you offer Medicare rebates?
Unfortunately, Counsellor’s fees are currently not eligible for Medicare rebates. Only psychologist fees attract a Medicare rebate. However, importantly in order to see a psychologist through the Medicare rebate scheme you must first see a General Practitioner (Doctor) and complete a mental health assessment, in order to qualify for a Mental Health Plan and receive a referral to a psychologist who can then treat you for your doctor diagnosed, mental illness for a total of 6 session. This diagnosis is kept permanently on your medical records and may affect your life insurance, future and/or current employment. Depending on the progress made with the psychologist, you may be entitled to further sessions funded by Medicare. Thereafter, you will be charged the regular psychologist fee for each session. You will need to hunt around for a psychologist who accepts just the Medicare rebate of Approx $129 per session (if money is an issue), as most charge an out of pocket fee over and above the Medicare rebate. The Australian Psychological Association recommended rate for a psychologist for a 1 hours session is $251.00 (as of July 2020)
You do NOT need a mental health assessment or a referral to come and see me. You can just ring up, have a 15 min FREE phone consultation with me and make an appointment to see me, either in counselling rooms or if it is easier, in your own home.
If you have Private Health Insurance, it is worth giving them a call and asking if they cover sessions with a Counsellor, BUPA, Medibank Private, all have policies that cover Counselling.