Frequently Asked Questions
Starting counselling can come with plenty of questions. Below you'll find answers to some common questions about appointments, Medicare, fees, counselling, EMDR and what to expect when getting started.
If you have a question that isn't answered here, you're welcome to get in touch.
FAQs
You can view my current availability and book an appointment online through my booking system. Or if you prefer, you can email me or call me. If you have questions before booking or are unsure whether my services are suitable for you, you're welcome to contact me.
No. You do not need a referral to attend counselling as a private-paying client. If you would like to claim a Medicare rebate, you will need an eligible referral and Mental Health Treatment Plan from a GP, psychiatrist or paediatrician.
I understand that circumstances can change. If you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment, please provide as much notice as possible.
48 hours or more notice: No cancellation fee.
24 to less than 48 hours' notice: 25% of the session fee will be charged.
Less than 24 hours' notice: 50% of the session fee will be charged.
Missed appointments/no-shows: The full session fee will be charged.
Yes. I offer early evening appointments on Tuesdays and Saturday morning appointments in Moonee Ponds. Current appointment availability can be viewed through my online booking system.
Standard counselling appointments are approximately 50 minutes.
The first appointment is an opportunity for us to discuss what has brought you to counselling, what you are currently experiencing and what you would like support with. We can begin developing an understanding of your needs and discuss possible approaches to therapy. You do not need to prepare anything specific beforehand.
Yes. If you have an eligible referral and Mental Health Treatment Plan, you may be able to claim a Medicare rebate for individual counselling sessions with me. I can lodge the claim online and payments are usually deposited into your bank account by Medicare within 48 hours (usually the next day).
I do not currently offer bulk billing. Concession rates may be available in some circumstances.
Some private health funds provide rebates for counselling or mental health social work services. Coverage and rebate amounts vary between funds and policies, so I recommend checking directly with your insurer.
I am currently recognised as a provider with Bupa, HCF, Medibank, ahm, Teachers Health Fund, Doctors Health, St Lukes Health, and Australian Regional Health Group
Yes. I can provide counselling to self-managed and plan-managed NDIS participants.
Depending on eligibility and individual circumstances, services may also be funded through DVA, WorkSafe Victoria, TAC, Victoria's Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS) and NSW Victims Services.
Current counselling and clinical supervision fees, Medicare rebate information and details about other funding options are available on my Fees & Medicare page.
I work with adolescents and adults experiencing a broad range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, eating disorders, ADHD, autism and neurodivergence, relationship difficulties, emotional regulation difficulties, stress, adjustment to life changes and other mental health concerns.
My approach is integrative and tailored to each person. Depending on your needs and goals, therapy may draw on approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).
You don't need to know which type of therapy you need before making an appointment. We can discuss what you're experiencing, what you would like to work on and your preferences before deciding together which therapeutic approaches may be appropriate.
Yes. I provide EMDR therapy for adolescents and adults where it is appropriate to their individual needs. EMDR is commonly used for trauma and PTSD and may also be incorporated into therapy for other difficulties involving distressing memories or experiences.
You can learn more on my EMDR Therapy page.
No. You remain in control of what you choose to discuss in therapy. Therapy can proceed at a pace that takes your needs, circumstances and readiness into account, and you do not need to disclose everything at once.
Yes. Information discussed in counselling is treated confidentially and handled in accordance with professional and legal requirements. There are some circumstances where confidentiality may need to be limited, such as where there are serious concerns about safety or where disclosure is required by law. These limits are discussed as part of the counselling consent process.
Yes. The consulting room is located on Mt Alexander Road in Moonee Ponds, with public transport (bus, train, tram) and parking options available nearby.
Still Have a Question?
If your question isn't answered above, you're welcome to get in touch. If you're ready to make an appointment, you can also view my current availability and book online.