FAQs
Q. Do I need a referral from a GP/Doctor? No, you do not need GP referral or Mental Health Access Plan.
Q. What is the difference between counselling and psychotherapy (therapy)? Counselling skills can be used to help people manage and process immediate crisis and distress. Psychotherapy skills can be used to help people to better understand the root cause of their issues and concerns. Although both terms are sometimes used interchangeably, counselling skills are mostly used with brief interventions in short term or crisis work and psychotherapy skills are used for long term work at depth such as exploring your family of origin and bringing to light unconscious patterns and dynamics. In my work I use either or both depending on what presents in your session.
Q. I completed an inquiry yesterday, when will I hear back from you? I aim to get back to inquiries within three business days. In the meantime I invite you to check out these podcast episodes; How attachment impacts adult relationships part 1 and part 2 & Understanding your triggers.
Q. How long is each session and how long do you usually work with clients? Your initial appointment will go for 90 minutes, and ongoing individual sessions go for 60 minutes. On average I work with my clients for approximately 11 months, however some clients meet their desired outcomes at 2-4 months. Each person’s therapeutic journey is different.
Q. How often should I see you? For long term behavior change regular sessions across 1-2 years is recommended. However, if you become a client, you have a choice of whether it’s a regular work e.g. fortnightly or a place to call on.
Q. Do you provide Medicare Rebates or accept private health? I don't accept private health insurance, provide Medicare rebates or NDIS at this time. My fees account for rebates that would otherwise be applied. The recommended fee for psychologists (according to APS, 2024) is $311/session, for social workers (according to AASW, 2024) is $270/session. I charge below these rates.
Q. What does registration with PACFA mean? Registration with Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation Australia (PACFA) means you will receive the highest level of support and professionalism. It is the governing and regulating body for practicing therapists and counsellors in Australia.
Q. Can I opt for face to face appointments? Yes, I offer appointments either in person or telehealth.
Q. How does therapy help? Therapy is a safe, empathic and non-judgemental space to feel heard, understood and respected. A therapist is skilled in guiding you through your thoughts and experiences in a way that facilitates greater acceptance, perspective and hope into the future. A good therapist works alongside you at your pace so you are not left feeling alone moving through the pain and discomfort that is keeping you feeling stuck and blocked. It can provide short-term symptom relief from anxiety, stress, depression and trauma, and long term benefits improving overall health and well being, quality of relationships and emotional regulation.