It depends. Sometimes twice weekly, weekly, fortnightly, monthly or even less often. Together we agree a pace that works for you. Often we begin with more frequent visits, dropping back to less frequently as you make progress. Again, you are in control.

At the moment, Medicare does not offer provider numbers to any counsellors, only psychologists. If your doctor does provide you with a Mental Health Treatment Plan, such a plan offers only a limited number of counselling sessions per annum. The out-of-pocket expense after the Medicare rebate, is comparable to that of a session with a counsellor where you are not limited by the number of sessions you have. You can have unlimited sessions with a counsellor and you do NOT need to see a doctor first. You can contact here as soon as you decide you want to explore counselling.

Please check with Medicare if you want more information about a Mental Health Treatment Plan.

First Counselling Session

This first session will depend on what is happening for you right now, as every person’s situation and experience is different. It is very normal to feel anxious and nervous when attending your first counselling session, so it is also a chance for you to see if this feels right for you. This session, like all the sessions, is about you and what you need.

Sessions 2 onwards

Again, because everyone’s situations, needs, goals and resources are different, there is not a set number of sessions that have to be booked. This can be discussed at any point during the counselling journey. It is normal to experience a number of emotions during counselling including relief and hope.

Core to effective counselling, is trust.

What is discussed in your counselling sessions is treated with the utmost confidentiality. However, there are times when information may need to be disclosed to others, for example, for legal reasons or if there is risk of harm to yourself or others. These exceptions will be outlined in your first counselling session and when possible, you will be informed of such disclosures beforehand.

You have the choice to contact Sarah directly via the form here, or call on 0402 497 386.

Sarah offers a 10-minute initial phone chat at no charge. This allows you the opportunity to find out more about counselling and Sarah. It is a safe avenue to ask questions and explore whether this is the right service for you. Then you can decide about booking an appointment.