These are a selection of the frequently asked questions that we receive.
What is a Counsellor?
A Counsellor is someone who will work with you to move past any sticking points that you might have in your life.
Generally speaking, Counsellors work with people who are trying to tackle emotional problems, with a view to helping the client develop plans or learn skills to better cope as they move forward.
Do I need a Counsellor or a Psychologist?
As above, a Counsellor generally works with people who are looking at finding ways and means to get past a particular problem (or series of problems) that they are experiencing in their life.
A Psychologist, however, generally speaking, works with people who present with signs of serious/intense psychological distress, often specific to mental disorders.
Do I need a Counsellor or a Psychiatrist?
Psychiatrists are medical doctors specialising in diagnosing and treating mental illness.
Is what I talk about in Counselling confidential?
Yes, confidentiality is the cornerstone of the client-therapist relationship. You, the client, may request to view your own personal information, stored securely in our records.
The information will not be given to third parties without your permission.
There is a condition in regards to this however and that is that if I was to deem that you, or someone else associated with you, was in a life-threatening situation I would be duty-bound to report the perceived danger to the appropriate authorities.
Any situations where there was deemed a threat to the liberty of a child would also be reportable.
Also, we would be required to provide your information to authorities should a request be made by way of a court order.
Finally, there may be times when we consult with outside sources about clients’ cases. In these instances, no personally identifiable information will be used to discuss any case.
The persons with whom we discuss cases are also legally bound to keep the information confidential.
How many Counselling sessions will I need?
No two clients are the same, thus it is very hard to give a perfectly accurate answer to this question.
Generally speaking, we ask that clients commit to blocks of six sessions.
What do I need to bring?
It’s a good idea to have a small notebook on hand when attending your Counselling sessions so you can write down information and ideas that might come up.
Some clients will also be given what is called ‘homework’. Writing down any tasks or setting reminders for what you can do between sessions could be an advantage.
Please remember however that a notebook or diary could be accessed by other people, so caution is advised in regard to protecting the confidentiality of our sessions.
Is Counselling different to talking with a friend?
This article best answers this question.
How long does a Counselling session last?
Each (regular) session runs for 55 minutes.
Can I use HICAPS?
No, however, we can issue you with a receipt that may be provided to your private health fund for any benefits you may be eligible for.
What payment options do you offer?
We accept all credit cards, as well as cash. Sessions are paid for either on a session-by-session basis or as part of a multi-session package. Payments are expected prior to each session.
Are you insured?
Yes, we carry Combined Malpractice, Public & Products Liability insurance.
Do you give advice?
It is not appropriate for a Counsellor to give advice. Counselling is about helping you, the client, find your own solutions through strategies and the provision of a nurturing and supportive environment.
Do you offer out-of-hours sessions?
Yes, we can usually facilitate sessions in the evening or on a Saturday morning (contact us for more details)
Do you have immediate availability?
In most cases, we can see you within a couple of days of you making contact with us.
If you have a query about something not covered here, please feel free to make contact with us.