Q: How long is the session?

A standard session for individuals in 60 minutes.A couple session is 90 minutes to give each member of the couple adequate time to share.

Question 1

I haven’t seen a counsellor or psychotherapist before, I’m nervous about what to expect?

Accepted Answer

This is totally understandable, but I want to reassure you that it’s just like having a chat. We get to know each other and I’m guided by what you want to work on and the pace you wish to go.There are no expectations that you have to do or talk about anything you don’t wish to. My priority is creating a safe, non-judgmental space for you to be, feel and express whatever comes up for you.

Question 2

What happens in a session?

Accepted Answer

We’ll talk. I’ll listen a lot, ask some questions, and reflect what I see and hear back to you.  It’s all very gentle and guided by you. I may offer some feedback on what I observe and my experience of our time together, to help increase your self-awareness and of any conflicting parts or patterns you may previously have been unaware of.   We work together to understand your inner world and experiences more deeply.​The first full session will begin with administration as we work through the intake form, expanding on some details if needed. We will talk about how we can best work together. It gives you a chance to tell me about the various parts of your life, what's worrying you most right now, and what you would like to achieve in therapy.​In all sessions I will invite you to ask me questions, tell me about what is helping and what isn’t, and to make sure you would like to continue to work together.

Question 3

How long is the session?

Accepted Answer

A standard session for individuals in 60 minutes.​A couple session is 90 minutes to give each member of the couple adequate time to share.

Question 4

How often should we meet?

Accepted Answer

Weekly or fortnightly sessions in the beginning help build rapport and momentum. This is especially important if you feel like you are heading towards a crisis.  Once rapport is established and life feels more settled you might choose to reduce the frequency to fortnightly, monthly or even just for the occasional check-in. It really is up to you and also importantly what feels affordable as well. I am flexible in how I work so we can find what works best for you.

Question 5

How many sessions do I need?

Accepted Answer

There is no magic formula. It differs from person to person and situation to situation.  Usually 6 to 10 sessions allows time for significant change to occur.  You may be happy with just a few sessions for a very specific concern. If the problem has a long history, then it may take many more sessions, even years.  This is a topic we will discuss in the first session and throughout your journey with me.

Question 6

Face to face or online?

Accepted Answer

I prefer face to face and many clients also report that it provides a richer therapeutic experience. However there is plenty of research demonstrating the effectiveness of online and telephone counselling.  I understand that some people prefer online and it increases accessibility.  I am happy to go with whichever you prefer or we can mix it up.

Question 7

What does it cost?

Accepted Answer

Individual sessions are $150 per hour. Couple sessions are $180 per hour.Discounts apply when booking for a block of 5 sessions or more.

Question 8

How do I pay for a session?

Accepted Answer

Invoices are sent ahead of sessions and must be paid on or before the day of your appointment.  Payments are made online via direct bank transfer or credit card. I do not accept cash.

Question 9

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

If you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment, please provide at least 24 hours' notice. Appointments missed or cancelled without 24 hours' notice will be charged the full session fee.

Question 10

Can I claim money back on the Medicare mental Care Plan or Private Health Insurance?

Accepted Answer

Counselling and Psychotherapy do not fall under the Medicare scheme.  I have a provider number with BUPA Health Insurance which can assist BUPA members with relevant policy coverage.

Your Questions