What to Expect

Starting counselling can be intimidating, so we have laid out the process step-by-step so you will know what to expect.

Step 1 - Referral

A referral from a General Practitioner (GP), Psychiatrist or Pediatrician is not required, but it will allow you to access Medicare rebates for up to 10 sessions in a calendar year. Some of our clients have a couple of private sessions with us before seeking a referral. If you are unsure, please get in touch with your doctor or our practice for more information.

Step 2 - Booking

Call our practice and speak to our friendly administration staff to make an appointment, or fill out the online New Client Enquiry Form, and we will contact you. Our administration staff follow strict confidentiality guidelines and can help you determine the best psychologist for your needs. We will schedule your appointments and email electronic forms for you to read and complete. Please ensure that you provide us with any referrals you may have before your first session.

Step 3 - First session

Please arrive for your first session 10 minutes early, as we will have a questionnaire for you to complete. Your psychologist employs evidence-based practices, and information from questionnaires is necessary to track your progress and determine the most effective approach for you.

Your psychologist will ask you questions about your past and present circumstances. You have total control over what you discuss and how much detail you want to provide. Some topics may be easier to discuss later when you are more comfortable. At the end of this first session, you and your therapist will have a shared understanding of your therapy goals and the changes you aim to make.

Your psychologist will always be trying to help you, but some aspects of therapy may not work for you. Please let them know if something does not resonate with you or makes you uncomfortable so they can change their approach. If you become unsure about anything during your session, please speak up. There’s nothing worse than leaving a session to find yourself confused about what’s been discussed.

Step 4 - The work

The work we do in counselling will be shaped by the challenges you face and the changes you want to make. Good counselling is a balance of insight and action. If we focus too much on insight, we can continue to build and refine our understanding of what is wrong and how it became a problem, but nothing will change in our lives. Over-analysis can lead to paralysis. In contrast, if we focus on taking action upfront, we may not resolve the underlying issues. Rushing to action can result in one step forward and two steps back, which can be frustrating and disheartening.

Our therapists have experience in a variety of evidence-based therapies. There isn’t one best approach that works for every issue and every person. The skill is figuring out the right combination of tools, skills and strategies that will work for you. This is a process that we do with you, not to you.

While the tools are helpful, the quality of your relationship with the therapist is the foundation of all good therapy. We all have different personalities and ways of doing things, so it’s possible that your psychologist is not the right fit for you. That’s ok. It happens, and it’s part of the job. If this happens to you, please notify the administration team so they can suggest another psychologist who will be a better fit for you.

Your psychologist will strive to be open, honest, curious, caring, and kind during your sessions. This will enable you to venture beyond your current understanding and explore uncharted territory. Ultimately, we will map that territory, access your wisdom and help you take consistent action that will deliver lasting results.