Frequently Asked Questions

Getting Started

How do I start therapy? What happens in the first session? Therapy starts with a conversation about what’s bringing you here and what you’d like support with. The first session is a chance to get a sense of how therapy works, ask questions, and explore what feels right for you.

Do I need to know exactly what’s wrong before starting therapy? Not at all. Many people come to therapy feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure why they’re struggling—they just know they don’t feel like themselves. A big part of therapy is working through things together to understand what’s going on and find ways forward that feel right for you.

How many sessions will I need? The length of therapy is different for everyone. Some people find short-term support helpful, while others prefer longer-term therapy. Most people start with a few sessions to see how it feels and then decide whether they’d like to continue.

What to Expect

What if I don’t know what to say in therapy? That’s completely okay. You don’t need to have everything figured out before coming to therapy. Some people start by talking about what’s been on their mind lately, while others might not know where to begin. Therapy is a space where you can explore things in a way that feels right for you.

What if I get emotional during a session? It’s completely normal to feel emotional in therapy. Tears, frustration, or even feeling numb are all valid responses. Therapy is a space where you can express whatever comes up, without judgment and at a pace that feels safe for you.

What if I don’t feel like therapy is helping? Therapy is a process, and change can take time. It’s normal to feel stuck or uncertain at times. If something doesn’t feel helpful, therapy can be adjusted to better meet your needs. And if a different approach or therapist feels like a better fit, exploring other options can be a valuable part of the process.

Will therapy give me advice on what to do? Therapy isn’t about being told what to do—it’s a space to explore thoughts, feelings, and options to make decisions that feel right for you. While strategies or perspectives may be offered, the focus is on finding what best supports your needs.

What if I don’t want to talk about something? You never have to talk about anything you’re not ready to. Therapy moves at your own pace, and difficult topics are only explored when it feels right for you. If understanding past experiences feels important, it can be approached in a way that feels safe and manageable while staying focused on what’s most helpful in the present.

What if I need support between sessions? In therapy, we can work together on strategies to help you navigate difficult moments. However, if you ever find yourself in a situation where you need immediate support outside of sessions, please visit my Helpines page for details on crisis helplines and urgent mental health services. If you are in immediate danger or need urgent medical or mental health assistance, please call 000. If you’d like to check in between sessions about something non-urgent, feel free to email me, and we can discuss it at your next appointment. If something important comes up, let me know, and we can explore options for additional support—such as scheduling an earlier session, where possible.

Practical Information

Can I get a Medicare rebate for sessions? If you have a Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) from your GP, you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate of $96.65 for up to 10 sessions per calendar year. The rebate helps reduce the out-of-pocket cost of therapy. Please check with your GP to see if you’re eligible.

How much do sessions cost, and what if I can’t afford therapy? I aim to keep therapy as accessible as possible. Fees vary based on funding and service type, with a sliding scale available. Telehealth sessions are offered at a lower rate. If you're unsure about affordability, I'm happy to discuss options that may work for you.

Can I use my NDIS funding for therapy? I see self-managed and plan-managed NDIS participants under Therapeutic Supports (Improved Daily Living). If you're self-managed, you can pay for sessions and claim reimbursement. If you're plan-managed, I can invoice your Plan Manager directly. If you're unsure whether your plan covers therapy, check with your Plan Manager or Support Coordinator. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions.

How do I pay for sessions? For in-person sessions, payment is made at the time of your appointment with reception staff. For telehealth sessions, payment is processed securely through Halaxy, with your credit card details provided during the intake process and the fee automatically charged after each session. If you are eligible for a Medicare rebate, I can process this for you following your session. Some third-party funders, such as WorkCover or insurance providers, may allow direct invoicing. If you plan to claim through private insurance, please check with your provider to confirm whether they offer reimbursement from an invoice. If you have any questions about payment options, feel free to reach out.

What if I need to cancel or reschedule? I understand that things come up, and sometimes plans need to change. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please provide at least 24 hours' notice to avoid a cancellation fee. This helps me offer the appointment to someone else who may be waiting.

Confidentiality & Privacy

Is what I share in therapy confidential? Yes, your privacy is very important. Everything you share in therapy is confidential, except in rare circumstances such as when there is a serious risk of harm to yourself or others, or where required by law. Your personal and clinical information is securely stored using privacy-compliant systems. A full Privacy Policy is available upon request.

Can I bring a support person to therapy? In some cases, having a support person in therapy can be helpful. If you’re considering this, we can talk about what would be most beneficial for you.

Support for Parents & Caregivers

How do I talk to my child about coming to therapy? It’s best to keep it simple and reassuring. You might say, “Therapy is a place where you can talk, play, and share your feelings. You don’t have to say anything you don’t want to, and we’ll go at your pace.” Let them know therapy isn’t a punishment—it’s a way to get support, just like going to the doctor when they don’t feel well. Parents or caregivers often meet with the therapist first to discuss concerns and better understand their child’s needs. This session can also be a time to talk through how to introduce therapy in a way that feels supportive and explore strategies to help a child feel comfortable with the process.

What if my child is nervous or doesn’t want to come? It’s normal for children to feel unsure about therapy at first. Acknowledging their feelings and letting them know they can come just to meet the therapist and see how they feel can be helpful. Many children warm up after a few sessions, and if they remain hesitant, the therapist can work with parents to explore ways to help them feel more comfortable.

Will I be in the session with my child? This depends on the child’s age and what feels most helpful. Younger children may have sessions with a parent present, while older children and teens often prefer time on their own. The therapist can discuss what makes the most sense for each child and family.

Ending Therapy & Moving Forward

What happens when I feel ready to finish therapy? Therapy is different for everyone—some people come for a short time, while others attend for longer. When you feel ready to finish, we’ll talk about how to wrap up in a way that feels right for you. This may include reviewing progress, discussing coping strategies, and planning for the future.

Can I come back to therapy later if I need to? Absolutely. Many people return to therapy at different points in their life, even after taking a break. You’re always welcome to reach out if you feel you’d like more support in the future.