FAQ
What is the difference between counselling and psychology?
Counselling focuses on the individual person and their presenting situation and emphasises providing a safe space for the client to share with an accepting, non-judgemental therapist. Counselling refrains from formally diagnosing or labelling the client or their condition and seeks to support the client with the process of developing self-awareness and insight, processing painful experiences, addressing difficult thoughts and feelings, developing new skills, setting goals, and moving towards living a fulfilling and purposeful life.
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Psychology often utilises comprehensive assessment measures, relies on medical models, and strives to develop a diagnosis of the client’s presenting issue based on scientific data. Generally, psychological treatment is appropriate for those experiencing severe mental health problems. Psychological intervention is often a long-term process which involves, searching for patterns of behaviour, observation, and interviewing.
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Is online therapy effective?
Research confirms that online therapy is an effective mode of counselling which produces positive outcomes similar to those of face-to-face counselling. Online counselling also offers the advantages of:
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Ease of access from the comfort, safety, and privacy of your home or office
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Available to people who are living in remote areas, working away, traveling, at home caring for children, without transportation, experiencing social anxiety, or unable to leave home due to illness or physical limitations
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Time efficient as saves waiting and commuting times
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Cost efficient
Do I need a referral and will I receive Medicare rebates?
You do not need a referral and generally can access counselling without long wait times. As a private practice counselling service we do not offer Medicare rebates.
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Do you accept Mental Health Care Plans?
Currently counsellors are not able to accept Mental Health Care Plans for funding. However, as a client you are free to see a counsellor for mental health support through private funding or utilising your health fund if you are a member with BUPA or ARHG.
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Will there be a medical record if I see a counsellor?
As a benefit of counselling there will be no medical record as counsellors do not have reporting obligations. This is an advantage for those desiring privacy and confidentiality and for individuals concerned about a history of mental health issues impacting employment.
What can I expect to happen in our counselling sessions?
The first counselling session is about getting to know you, beginning to understand your history and presenting concerns, and determining how I might be able to support you. The initial session also provides an opportunity to review policies, discuss confidentiality, and answer any questions you might have.
Following sessions will provide you with a safe space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and issues of concern. You will also identify your desired outcomes for therapy and collaboratively work with your therapist to develop a personalised plan to help you begin to take steps towards your goals. In therapy you will gain understanding of root issues that have contributed to your current problems, learn to address thoughts, feelings, or behaviours that might be negatively impacting your life, develop skills and strategies for managing daily life, develop self-awareness and clarity, discover purpose and meaning, and move towards recovery and healing.
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What is an integrative counsellor?
An integrative counsellor seeks to work with people from a holistic perspective to improve wellbeing and considers the multiple aspects of the person in treatment. Integrative counselling incorporates a variety of evidence-based approaches and interventions and tailors therapy to the individual client and their unique needs, values, and preferences.
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What therapeutic approaches do you use?
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Therapeutic approaches may include:
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Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
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Attachment based approaches
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Christian Counselling (only at client's request)
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Coaching
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Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
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Dialectical Behaviour Therapy
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Emotionally Focused Therapy
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Gottman Method Couples Therapy
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Motivational Interviewing
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Narrative Therapy
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Person-Centred approaches
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Positive Psychology
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Schema Therapy
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Solution Focused Therapy
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What is Christian Counselling?
Christian counselling integrates psychological principles with Christian faith to support individuals in their mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. It offers a space where faith can be part of the healing process, providing guidance rooted in Biblical teachings. Clients may choose this service when they seek a counsellor who shares their Christian worldview, or when they desire to explore life challenges within the context of their beliefs.
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How does this apply to me if I have a different faith or am a secular person?
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While this is a specialised service on offer, it is entirely optional. We provide the same level of dedication and care to all individuals, regardless of faith background, ensuring that every client feels respected and supported on their journey to well-being. Our goal is to provide compassionate counselling tailored to your unique needs, values, and beliefs and to work from your personal frame of reference.