Frequently Asked Questions
On this page we
collected the most frequently asked questions we encounter in our
practice. If you have a general
question about
counselling or psychology for which we don't have the answer
here, please contact us and we will discuss
it with you.
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-
I have seen counsellors in the past,
but I still experience the same problems. Are you any
different?
- According to our clients,
yes, we are. We approach our clients with a direct and
"no nonsense" attitude and we target their problems from the
moment we meet them. Many of our clients also return years
after they completed therapy to address different issues, or to
refresh some of the psychological skills they learned.
-
What are your fees?
- For
individuals: $160 before 6pm and $180 between 6pm and 9pm and
on Saturdays. For couples: $180 before 6pm and $200 between 6pm
and 9pm and Saturdays.
-
Do you bulk bill?
- Bulk
billing is available for eligible people with appropriate GP
referrals.
-
How many sessions will I
need?
- The number of sessions required to
successfully treat a psychological problem depends on the nature
and severity of the problem you are experiencing. Most
clinical problems are typically treated in 8 to 12 sessions with
weekly attendance. Helping with minor difficulties can be
achieved with few, only 2 to 3 sessions.
-
Do you bulk bill?
-
Yes. Low income earners with GP referrals can
access our services without paying a "gap". Bulk billing is only
available between 9am - 12pm and 3pm - 5pm, Monday to
Thursday.
-
I am committed to attend my sessions. Can
I pay for 6 sessions in advance and receive a free session or
receive a reduced fee?
- No. Although it may seem
practical to do so, we would consider this option unethical. For a
therapeutic relationship to be successful you will need to be
intrinsically committed and motivated to attend your
sessions. Accepting advance payments or offering reduced
fees would be equal to attempting to "buy your commitment". We
don't do this.
-
I have a relationship problem, but I
don't want my partner to attend. Can I attend alone and try
to work on my relationship?
- Difficult, but yes.
Relationship problems are best approached together with
your partner. However, we recognise that this is not always
possible or productive for the relationship. There are strategies
individuals can use to improve their relationships without
directly involving their partners and we will help you
implementing these in your own circumstances.
-
What is the difference between a
counsellor a clinical psychologist and a
psychiatrist?
- While these professions are very
similar and in therapeutic settings these professionals work
similarly, there are subtle differences that clients should be
aware of. Counsellors deal with broad emotional difficulties and
provide support for clients in a structured form. Clinical
psychologists diagnose and treat psychological disorders, such as
clinical depression or anxiety. Psychiatrists work within a
medical model and diagnose and treat psychological disorders.
Also, psychiatrists often prescribe and monitor
medication.
-
What can I expect at the first session
and how will I feel after the first session?
- The
first session is usually a very positive experience. Chances are
that you have been talking to family and friends about your
problems and heard different advice and/or suggestions. Talking to
a professional is a very different experience. After we find
out what are the main difficulties that you struggle with we
will work towards a solution that we agree on. This way, therapy
becomes a joint effort right from the start and you will feel that
you are actively working on the issues that concerned
you. |
If you have other questions, call: (02) 8068 8661
or email your enquiry directly
An APS certified practice, call with
confidence.  | 
