Fees, funding options and practical details

If you’re new to counselling, it’s normal to feel unsure about what to expect. In the first session we’ll focus on getting to know each other and understanding what you’d like support with.

Your first session may include:

• Getting to know each other and discussing what feels most helpful for you
• Exploring what brought you to counselling
• Questionnaires/screening tools (if useful) to understand your current needs and track progress
• Identifying goals and agreeing on a plan for future sessions

Your goals and plan are flexible and can change as your needs and priorities change.

If you’d like to check if we’d be a good fit before booking, you’re welcome to book a free 15-minute consultation.

You don’t need to prepare anything specific. Some people find it helpful to reflect on what brought them to counselling or to jot down a few questions.

For telehealth, it can help to have a drink, a notebook, and anything that helps you feel grounded nearby.

This varies depending on your goals, what’s happening in your life, and what other supports you have. We’ll review progress together and adjust the pace and plan as we go.

Many people notice meaningful change across a full Medicare MHTP (up to 10 sessions), while others prefer longer-term support—especially for complex, chronic or longstanding concerns. It’s also common to return to counselling at different times in life for different reasons.

I am able to use a variety of assessments tools to support you to better understand yourself and to track your progress with your therapy goals.

I am not able to diagnose mental health conditions, however if you are seeking a mental health diagnosis, I can support you to find an appropriate clinician.

I do not offer assessment reports, diagnostic reports, or medico-legal assessments.

Unfortunately, I am not able to offer couples or family counselling.

If you would like to have your partner or another support person (e.g., family member, friend) co-attend some of your appointments to support them to better understand your therapeutic progress or to assist you with a specific goal this can be facilitated.

Yes, if you would find it beneficial to have access to your session notes please let me know and I will ensure you receive a copy following each session.

Everything you share in counselling is confidential except in situations where there is a serious risk of harm, a legal requirement, or concerns for the safety of a child or vulnerable person. If you have any further questions about confidentiality please ask me.

You’re welcome to contact me by email or SMS for:

• Rescheduling
• Sending documents
• Practical questions

Emails and SMS are usually responded to within 1–2 business days.

I do not provide therapeutic support via email or SMS.

Yes, telehealth is proven to be as effective as receiving face-to-face services for mental health concerns. The convenience and accessibility of telehealth can make it a better option for some people, for example those living regionally or those with busy schedules.

However, telehealth is not the best option for everyone. If you don’t have a private space to use and a stable internet connection it may be more difficult to engage through telehealth.

A smartphone, tablet (e.g., iPad) or computer (e.g., laptop or PC) can be used for telehealth.

Most internet connections are suitable for telehealth, particularly in metro areas. If you are able to stream video (e.g., watch YouTube) your internet connect will be stable enough for telehealth. If you are living regionally or have other concerns about the stability of your internet connection please advise me at the start of services.

I use the Zoom Telehealth Pro platform. You’ll receive a link to join the video or phone call prior to your appointment. You do not need to create an account/sign up to utilise the platform.

Yes, telehealth is adaptable to what is most comfortable for you. Accessibility options include:

• Auto-captioning during video calls
• Replying using the chat instead of voice
• Turning your camera off, or opting for a phone call instead of a video call
• Lying down, or elevating your legs, during the session
• Taking breaks during the session

Your data is stored securely through Zanda’s protected data centres with multiple backups and in compliance with Australian healthcare privacy and security standards including ISO 27001 standards. Your data is not viewed by or shared with anyone else without your express permission.

Medicare: Payment is required on the day of your session. A copy of your MHTP and your GP or psychiatrist’s referral letter is required prior to your first session to ensure your Medicare claim can be processed. Please note that the full fee is charged ($175) and then once your Medicare claim is processed the rebate ($87.25) is deposited into your nominated account usually within 2 business days.

Medicare – Bulk Billing: No out of pocket payment is required.

NDIS: Services will be invoiced on the day of your session. Payment is required within 7 business days.

Private Health: Payment is required on the day of your session. Please note that the full fee is charged ($175) and an invoice will be provided to you which can be submitted to your private health insurer for a rebate. Length of time to receive a rebate will depend on your insurer.

Yes, I offer bulkbilling for persons in receipt of Centrelink payments and/or with a Centrelink health care card, and for persons otherwise experiencing financial hardship. Refer to Referrals & Rebates for more information.

If you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment please notify me as soon as possible, ideally at least 24 hours before your scheduled appointment time via email or SMS. There is no cancellation fee for appointments rescheduled or cancelled with 24 hours’ notice.

I understand that chronic illnesses can cause flare ups and unexpected sickness. If you need to cancel on the day of your scheduled appointment (even 10 minutes before your appointment!) but are able to reschedule to a new time within the next 7 days, there will be no cancellation fee.

If you do not attend a scheduled appointment and do not notify me beforehand you will be charged the full session fee ($175) except in extenuating circumstances (e.g., hospitalisation, caregiving responsibilities). If you miss an appointment without notifying me but wish to continue working together, please reach out to me as soon as possible to discuss ongoing services.

Please note that Medicare and private health rebates do not cover cancellation fees.