FAQs
You Ask - I Answer
What can I expect in therapy?
Therapy is tailored to each individual’s needs and the aim is to provide a space free of judgement, in order for you to express yourself in a way that feels most authentic to you. Generally, you can expect the first session to be about ‘getting to know you’, where we will discuss what brought you to therapy and any relevant background information that may be important to inform treatment goals. You will have an opportunity to set treatment goals at the end of the first session. Consequent sessions will focus on treatment. This can look differently for different people, depending on what they would like to get out of the treatment process. Some clients like to use the therapeutic space to process their thoughts and emotions and develop more insight and clarity regarding their challenges, whereas others prefer to discuss more specific strategies for specific challenges. It is up to you as to how you would like to use the space, as not all approaches are suited to everyone.
I feel nervous about going to therapy. Is this normal?
This is completely normal and expected. Clients come to therapy and often talk about things that they may have never addressed before, and to someone who is completely new to them! So of course nerves will be there. It can take a few sessions before clients start to feel completely comfortable in the therapeutic space.
How long is a session?
Sessions are 50 minutes in duration. Occasionally they may stretch out to 60 minutes depending on individual needs.
How many sessions will I need?
This is totally dependent on individual client needs. Most clients require a minimum of 10 sessions. If you are eligible for a Medicare Mental Health Care Plan, you may be entitled to up to 10 rebated sessions per calendar year.
How frequently should I attend sessions?
Again, this depends on individual needs. However, most clients start by having weekly or fortnightly sessions to ‘get the ball rolling’, then stretch sessions out to monthly once they start making progress toward their goals.
Do I need a GP referral?
No, you do not need a referral. However, you will require a GP referral if you would like to claim Medicare Rebates for the sessions. Alternatively, you may book sessions privately and claim under Private Health depending on your Health Fund and level of cover.
Will my information be kept confidential?
Client information is kept confidential in most circumstances. However, information may need to be disclosed if (1) there is a significant threat of harm to yourself or someone else, (2) there is a court subpoena, and (3) when providing progress reports to GPs. Please note that under the Medicare Mental Health Care Plan, GPs require brief progress reports after the 6th and 10th session.
Do you offer Telehealth sessions?
Yes. Clients can choose between attending face to face or Telehealth sessions, depending on preference. Telehealth sessions are conducted via Zoom.
What do I do if I start therapy and feel that it is not right for me?
I offer a free 10 minute ‘meet and greet’ session prior to starting the therapeutic process. This is an opportunity for clients to ask any questions, and to get a feel for my therapeutic approach and for what therapy will entail. However, sometimes clients may feel that they need a break from therapy, or would like to try different modalities. This is totally fine, however clients are encouraged to discuss any ambivalence throughout therapy so that they may be assisted in making the best decision for themselves.