Frequently Asked Questions

Is what I talk about in my counselling sessions confidential?

Sure is, and I am required by law to treat that confidentiality and your privacy with the utmost respect. Confidentiality can be broken if you or somebody else’s safety is at risk, and it cannot be addressed in our session.

Do I need a referral?

No, no referral is needed to access appointments. You can simply book via the contact form, or email me directly.

Can I claim a session through Medicare, or Private Health Insurance?

Unfortunately Medicare rebates are not available at this time, however you may be eligible to claim on Private Health Insurance depending on your cover.

What times are there appointments available? Are there after hours appointments?

In person & online appointments are available during the day Monday through to Thursday, with evening appointments available Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday. If you are unable to find a suitable time through my appointment page, please email me, as I am often able to fit you in!

Does going to counselling mean I’m crazy?

Definitely not, all of us have concerns regarding life’s pressures from time to time. I like to think of counselling as ‘gym for the mind’ - it’s healthy for us to know ourselves! Attending counselling is a form of self care, and shows a willingness to want to live a better life.

What are the benefits of counselling?

I guess that depends on what your individual goals are, but counselling is amazing for understanding the ‘why’ of where you are in your life, and subsequently how you might be able to change that. Attending counselling is an opportunity to experience true trust and openness, to be truly understood.

What kind of counsellor are you, and what modalities do you favour?

As a counsellor I am very gentle and warm, with my main goal to make you feel as comfortable as possible. Also sitting at the absolute core of my process is the Person-Centred approach, which recognises that every person strives for and has the capacity to fulfil their own potential. You can read more about it here. I integrate this approach with a range of other strategies, depending on your specific needs, but we work together to find the right fit.

I’m not based in Geelong, can I still access your services?

Absolutely. The best thing about online sessions is that you can access them from anywhere.

Where are you located?

My office is located at 1/102 St Albans Rd, East Geelong.

How often are counselling sessions?

That’s really depends on your specific circumstances as well as your goals. You can attend weekly, fortnightly or monthly. I find most people are comfortable with a weekly or fortnightly appointment whilst in crisis, or working through pressing issues.

What is the cost of a counselling session?

An in person individual counselling session is $160/hour, with online sessions being $140/hour.

Couples counselling is $220 for an initial 90 minute session, and subsequent 60 minute sessions are $200.

How long do people usually see a counsellor for?

Again this depends on your specific circumstances and goals, some people are happy with one session whilst others commit to counselling for months or even years (me!). I would say the majority of people are happy with between 5-10 sessions though.

What will happen at my first appointment?

We will explore what you have going on in your life, as well as what you’d like to achieve in therapy. You might not quite know what it is that’s bothering you, but do not worry as I can help you explore this.

I’m scared of what might come up for me in therapy, what if I cry or get angry?

It is completely natural to be worried about what might come up for you in counselling, being upset and angry is not a nice feeling and can make us feel out of control - I totally get it. It’s important to remember that therapy is a safe space where you can trust someone to support you as you experience these emotions.

I have children but no babysitter, can I still access appointments?

As a mother to a young child myself I absolutely know how hard it can be to find time for yourself. Depending on the nature of your issue, your child is more than welcome to attend your appointment (granted you are happy for them to listen in). I can also travel to you if you think that may be a better fit, depending on your location.