FAQ’s
Do I have choice in what is explored in my sessions?
Absolutely. The more collaborative the therapeutic process is, the more beneficial. Person Centred Therapy honours that you are the expert of your own life. At times ideas may be challenged, and you will be invited to reach towards discomfort, however, only at your pace and in a way that is appropriate to you. Different people have different reasons to attend therapy- we will work together in determining what is important to you at this time in your life, and move with your needs session to session.
The therapy session is your time, your space and absolutely your choice.
Is my information confidential?
Yes! During the intake process you will complete confidentiality and consent forms to clarify limits of confidentiality and Duty of care. Registered Counsellors and Art therapists engage in clinical supervision to maintain professional quality and standards and to ensure appropriate care is provided, this involves confidential discussion of case-management. If you have any concerns or questions about this we can discuss this in our initial meet and greet appointment.
Your personal details and information will never be provided to a third party without prior consent.
What happens to my art work after an Art Therapy session?
Due to the personal nature of the therapy process, work created during session is safely stored in a confidential manner session to session to ensure that it and you are contained appropriately. You are welcome and encouraged to take photos if this feels right for you as you may want to engage in further reflections between sessions. At the close of the therapy process, we will review your work and you can choose to keep or respectfully dispose of any creations.
How many sessions will I need to attend?
This is very much an individual choice and depends on circumstances. Some people come to therapy to address a particular issue, concern or confusion they are experiencing and have particular goals and time frames in mind, others for broader existential clarity, and others to journey away from something and towards something else. Some people attend therapy for 6-12 sessions over 3-6 months, others visit therapy for short bursts over many years when particular issues arise or return for 1-2 sessions to resolve or reflect on a particular matter. There is no right or wrong way to do therapy, however I am of the belief that a core goal of therapy is to move effectively and collaboratively towards completion of therapy.
Do I have to choose one modality of therapy?
No, the therapy process is your journey. I will guide you through the different modalities in an integrated way if you don’t have a preference, and offer possibilities as they arise in response to your needs. Some clients prefer to work entirely online, others face-to-face, sometimes a Creative Art Therapy process becomes an appropriate offering in the talk-therapy setting, and sometimes when an individual feels dysregulated, their system may be more supported by walking and being in nature. And then there are those days that the car is in the mechanic, or an illness or injury has occurred, or you are away travelling but still want to complete your session, making online a practical choice.
Your journey is tailored to you as a collaborative process.
Do you accept NDIS clients?
NDIS clients are most welcome and are encouraged to contact to ensure my service suits your needs. I am a non-registered provider with all required NDIS clearances and current First AID training.
Do you see children and couples?
Couples and children are welcomed. Please contact via email to discuss your needs.
Do you provide Medicare covered Mental Health Plans?
Unfortunately Medicare doesn’t cover Counselling or Art Therapy under GP Mental Health Care plans at this time. The good news is that our registering bodies are working hard to get this changed so that Counsellors and Art Therapists who have a Masters Level qualification and are registered in that profession can offer rebates.
The cost of Counselling sessions will be similar to the gap you are required to pay with most Psychologists/ Psychiatrists. It is important to consider what is the most appropriate therapy pathway to you. If you have a current concession card and are experiencing financial stress, please bring this to my attention as a sliding fees scale may be available to you.
As a clinician, I am often in session or tending to other matters. If you call the provided number whilst I am unavailable, please do leave a message and I will get back to you when it is possible during business hours. Best contact is usually via email, where you can outline any questions you may have.
If you need immediate support, are experiencing a crisis or are experiencing thoughts of suicide or self harm, you don’t need to be alone in this. There are support lines with counsellors waiting for your call 24 hours a day…. Lifeline 13 11 14 / Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 /Alcohol and Drug support line 9442 5000. If you are feeling unsafe and are not in immediate danger in your relationship or home environment, call 1800Respect on 1800 737 732 .
For all emergencies and life threatening situations call 000.