On our first session, we would discuss the contents of the client contract, which outlines what therapy is, confidentiality, and cancellation policies. I will also need to collect some personal details from you, such as your full name, address, and contact information, as well asking some questions around risk.
Following this, we'll typically delve into what you hope to achieve through therapy.
The remainder of the session is centred around you. There is no prescribed way to approach therapy; I'm here to support you at whatever pace feels the most comfortable.
You're free to take breaks or end the session whenever you wish. If you find that therapy with me isn't the right fit, that's perfectly fine too. Just let me know, and I won't enquire further.
Generally, we would meet once a week or fortnightly, at a mutually agreeable time and spend 50 minutes discussing what’s on your mind.
However, there is no ‘hard and fast’ rules about how often you should attend therapy - and I am happy to be as flexible as I can to accommodate fitting sessions around when is appropriate for you. For example, some people find as their therapy feels like it is coming to an end, they would like to stagger sessions from once weekly to every fortnightly.
This is ultimately up to you. For most mild to moderate issues -12 sessions is generally recommended. However, you may find you would prefer more sessions if you wish to discuss longer-standing and more complex issues. Conversely, some people find just a few sessions of counselling are helpful for them.
I offer online therapy sessions via Google Meet, a free video calling platform.
When you book a session, I’ll provide you with a link to access our private virtual meeting room. At the scheduled time, simply click the link, and Google Meet will open in your browser—no need to download or install anything in advance.
To make the most of your session, I recommend finding a quiet, private space where you won’t be interrupted.
In the event of internet connectivity issues, we can transition to a phone call to complete the session.
Payment can be made via bank transfer, with my banking details on the invoice I will send to you, after you have had your appointment. I request that payment be made within 24 hours of receiving the invoice.
If you are paying in a currency that is not Australian dollars, I will send you a link that you can pay through on the invoice, which includes any currency exchange fees.
I do not offer Medicare rebates, as I do not work within the Medicare system. I am a private provider, so you do not need a referral from your doctor or a medical diagnosis to start seeing me. I am also not limited by the number of sessions you are funded for so we can do long-term work if that suits you more.
Yes. As a registered allied health professional (Australian Counselling Association), I can offer therapy sessions covered by NDIS to 'self-managed' and 'plan-managed' individuals.
I have written more about why I might be a good fit for those on NDIS here.
Please note, that NDIS recipients must also have the "Improved Daily Living" included in their NDIS plans to access funding for allied health professionals.
Yes, I do. If you hold a valid government-issued concession card, please let me know during your booking form process to receive a 20% discount.
In my practice, I use the terms counselling and psychotherapy interchangeably, reflecting my training and qualifications in the UK, where I earned a BA (Hons) in Counselling and Psychotherapy. The professionals who taught me used both terms interchangeably.
However, in Australia, some view psychotherapy as a more in-depth process compared to counselling, generally involving more immersive training and a deeper level of therapeutic work. My own training included extensive individual counselling, personal development modules, and learning how to work in depth with clients and help unpack deeply held belief systems.
Counsellors and Psychotherapists: Counsellors and psychotherapists are well-equipped to provide emotional support across various areas of life. Whether you feel stuck in unhealthy behavioural patterns, are navigating significant life changes, or encounter challenges in work, education, family life, or relationships, they can offer valuable assistance.
Psychologists: Psychologists possess a background in psychology, typically employing a more medicalised and behavioural approach to help you. They can diagnose and assess individuals and often work within the Medicare system.
Psychiatrists: Psychiatrists are fully qualified Doctors of Medicine who specialise in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions. They are commonly sought out for severe and impactful diagnosed mental health issues such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or other complex conditions.
Important Note: As a counsellor and psychotherapist, I do not provide diagnostic assessments. Additionally, I am not suitable for individuals experiencing an acute psychological crisis or seeking addiction support. There are qualified professionals specialising in these areas who can better assist you. A good place to find what support options might suit you best is www.headtohealth.gov.au, or make an appointment with your GP to discuss your best options.
I currently do not work with children below the age of 16.
If you are 16 and 17 and would like to book sessions, or if you are a parent who would like to book sessions for your 16/17 year old please let me know as I may need to send an amended contract.
Yes! As long as you are not residing in the USA or Canada (due to their professional therapist licensing laws).
Please just let me know within the booking form.
No problem! Please feel free to contact me here.
