About Counselling
How do I know if I need counselling?
If something is affecting your quality of life — your sleep, your relationships, your sense of self, your ability to function — that's a reasonable signal to seek support. You don't need to be in crisis. Many people come to counselling during periods of transition or growth, not only difficulty.
What's the difference between a counsellor and a psychologist?
Both provide evidence-informed psychological support. Psychologists in Australia have government-subsidised sessions under a Mental Health Care Plan (via a GP referral). PACFA Registered Clinical Counsellors like myself are not currently eligible for Medicare rebates, though some private health funds offer rebates — check the Fees & Rebates page for details. The quality of the therapeutic work depends far more on the individual practitioner than on the professional title.
Can I do counselling online?
Yes. Telehealth sessions are available across Australia and are just as effective as in-person sessions for most presentations. All you need is a private space and a reliable internet connection.
Is everything I say confidential?
Yes, with narrow exceptions required by law — if there is risk of serious harm to yourself or others. I'll explain confidentiality clearly in our first session.
What if I've tried counselling before and it didn't help?
Prior experience that wasn't helpful is worth talking about — it often reveals something important about what you need. A different approach, a different focus, or simply a different therapeutic relationship can make a significant difference.
Sessions & Fees
How long are sessions?
Individual counselling and supervision sessions are 50–60 minutes. Couples counselling sessions are 60–90 minutes. MHFA training is 12 hours for the standard course.
What does a session cost?
Individual counselling: $160 per session. Couples counselling: $240 per session. Professional supervision: $160 per session. MHFA training: fee negotiated based on requirements. A free 15-minute consultation is available before your first session.
Are there rebates available?
Some private health funds offer rebates for counselling with a PACFA Registered Clinical Counsellor — check directly with your fund. WorkSafe Victoria clients are billed directly with no out-of-pocket cost. Medicare rebates are not currently available for counsellors.
What's your cancellation policy?
I ask for a minimum of 24 hours notice to cancel or reschedule a session. Late cancellations and missed appointments may be charged at the full session fee. I understand that genuine emergencies arise — these are handled with discretion.
Do I need a referral?
No referral is needed. You can book directly. For WorkSafe clients, you need an approved or pending WorkSafe claim but don't need a GP referral to see me specifically.
Still Have Questions?
If your question isn't answered here, or you'd like to talk through whether counselling is right for you, I'd welcome a conversation.