What is Holistic Counselling?

Holistic counselling is an integrative approach to therapy that addresses not only mental and emotional well-being but also physical, social, and spiritual dimensions of health. Unlike regular counselling, which often focuses primarily on psychological concerns, holistic counselling considers the interconnectedness of all aspects of a person’s life.

How is online counselling different to in-person counselling?

Online counselling offers the same attentive care and professional support as in-person sessions, in the comfort of your own space. This approach allows flexibility, making it easier to integrate therapy into your daily life without compromising on the quality or depth of the counselling experience. It also saves you a lot of time getting to and from appointments, additionally saving on fuel and parking expenses.

How long are sessions and what is the cost?

Sessions run for 60 minutes and cost $130 per session. There is also the option to purchase a 3 session package at $330 (saving $60).

What does having a PACFA membership mean?

The Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia is a professional body that sets high standards for training, ethics, and practice in the field of counselling and psychotherapy. PACFA members are required to engage in ongoing professional development and supervision, meaning they stay informed about best practices and emerging research. Members must have completed a bachelor’s degree in counselling or higher to be eligible to join PACFA.

Do you offer alternatives to Zoom?

If you do not wish to have a video conversation and prefer to just talk without video I am happy to arrange a session over the phone, provided you live in Australia.

How many sessions are recommended?

The number of sessions required is unique to the individual. Generally, the bulk of the first session will be focused on getting to know you and a full picture of what your current problems are as well as what has led up to this. Once this has been established and a sense of safety has been created we can then go deeper. Therefore I offer a 3 session package to ensure you get more from counselling.

Do you provide any support between sessions?

I will often send clients an email after our sessions with further information and recourses on relevant topics discussed. I will ask in our session if this is something you would like me to do.

Do you offer Medicare rebates?

Currently counsellors are not eligible to provide Medicare rebates under a Mental Health Care Plan. However, even with the rebate you generally will be required to pay a gap fee for a psychologist or mental health social worker. My fees are reflective of the recommended fee for Counselling.

Do I need a referral?

I do not require a referral to access my services so you can simply book online.

What is your cancellation policy?

Appointments cancelled more than 24 hours in advance are eligible for a refund or rescheduling at no additional cost. Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours' notice will incur the full fee. This policy ensures fairness for time management of myself and other potential clients.

What can I expect from our first session?

Prior to your first session I will provide you with an intake form and an information/consent form. At the beginning of our first session I will talk you through the consent form and answer any questions you have. I will then invite you to tell me about the main reason/s you came to counselling and what you would like to focus on today. Along with exploring these issues from your perspective, the first session will also be spent getting to know you, understanding how different aspects of your life look like right now as well as any relevant history. As I follow person-centered principles, I will only go as far as you are ready and you are always in control of what is discussed during our sessions.

How can I prepare for a counselling session?

It’s normal to feel uncertain or nervous before your first counselling session. I get it and I’ve been there myself when I’ve gone to therapy! I suggest that you think about a few key issues you wish to bring up and it may help to write these down. For online sessions, make sure you are in a quiet and private space. It’s best to get ready before the start time to ensure technology runs smoothly and you have time to take a breath so you don’t feel rushed. It may also be beneficial to write down thoughts and ideas that come up between sessions so you can bring them in next time. 

 Is your approach trauma-informed?

Yes, this was covered throughout my Counselling Masters. I also ensure I am up to date with current research on the trauma-informed approach.

What is the difference between a counsellor and a psychologist?

Psychologists are primarily trained in in research, diagnosis, and assessment. Counsellors are generally trained in using a person-centred approach, how to use skills related to the therapeutic relationship, case conceptualisation, and they do not diagnose. There are many different modalities and approaches to counselling so it is important to find a counsellor who is the right fit for your unique needs.

What therapy styles and modalities do you use?

My counselling approach involves cultivating the conditions for meaningful change through supporting you to connect with your own inner knowing and safety while also providing tangible tools to implement in daily life. This collaborative approach is in alignment with person-centred counselling, however I also integrate techniques from various modalities including:

•Narrative Therapy 

•Somatic Experiencing

•Mindfulness Based Therapy 

•Motivational Interviewing 

•Internal Family Systems (parts work)

•Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

My approach is also informed by nervous system awareness, attachment styles and the impact of our society on the experience of motherhood.