FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Question 1

What are your qualifications?

I am a registered member of the Australian Counselling Association - #2802.

I hold the following qualifications:

Graduate Diploma in Counselling (2018)
Bachelor of Social Work (2006)
Bachelor of Arts (Sociology & Women's Studies)

Contact Linda

Answer

This is different for everyone, and depends on what you are wanting to achieve with counselling:

Answer

The first session will initially involve a little bit of paperwork and setting the scene for our work together. We will then have about 40 minutes to explore your concerns and for me to gain an understanding of what’s been happening for you, and what you would like to achieve from counselling. Towards the end of the session, we will review what’s been achieved, and I will offer you some feedback and ideas about how we might be able to work together. If you feel that we are a ‘good fit’ and you feel comfortable, we can then plan for future sessions. Its also perfectly Ok if you decide that it doesn't quite feel right - counselling is all about you.

Answer

Counselling services operate outside the Medicare system, so a Mental Health Care Plan is NOT required from your GP. This means:

Answer

As a registered, professional counsellor, your privacy is of utmost importance to me. I am bound by the Australian Counselling Association code of ethics to keep your identity, records, and content of our sessions private. The only exceptions are when:

Answer

A one-hour appointment for Individual counselling: $95 - $120 * Concession may be available for Health Card Holders Please note that counselling services are NOT subsidised by Medicare. Book a Counselling Session

Answer

To avoid cancellation fees, 24 hours notice is required to change or cancel your session.

Question 2

How many sessions will I need?

For some people, a single session is enough to begin to make powerful changes in daily life.
For others, 3 - 6 sessions will enable opportunities to more fully explore current concerns and learn new strategies.
Longer term counselling may suit people who are wanting to work at a deeper level and consolidate changes.

Sessions can be weekly or fortnightly, or maybe a 'check-in' session in 4-6 week's time just to consolidate new patterns. Its always about you. We will work together to identify your goals at each session, and I will ask for your feedback as we go. You can pause or stop counselling at any time. Book a Counselling Session

Question 3

What happens at the first session?

Question 4

Do I need a Mental Health Care Plan or referral?

Choice about who you see, the style of counselling, and the number of sessions.
A mental health diagnosis is not required to access counselling.
Counselling will not appear on your permanent health record.
There will be minimal waiting times for your first appointment.

*Medicare rebates/Bulk-Billing arrangements are NOT available Book a Counselling Session

Question 5

What about privacy and confidentiality?

You have requested for me to do so.
Where there is a legal obligation to do so.
If there is an immediate and specified risk of harm to an identifiable person

See my privacy policy here. **Please be aware if you choose to like or follow my social media pages, this may show up in your timeline and your privacy may be compromised. I do not accept friend requests from current or past clients on any of my social media pages.

Question 6

Where, when and how can I see you?

Daytime appointments currently available with minimal waiting times.
Tele-Counselling appointments may also be available via Zoom at other times.
I can usually make an appointment to meet within one week of your call.
Appointments for counselling can be made by phone or email, or online.

** I cannot always answer my phone, as I may be in session with another client, however if you leave me a brief message, I will attempt to return your call before 5pm on the same day, or as soon as possible on the next business day. Book a Counselling Session

Question 7

Fees. How much do I have to pay for counselling?

Question 8