A common misconception is that therapy is only beneficial to those with mental health issues; however, it is a valuable tool for anyone seeking a safe, neutral, and confidential space to explore their inner world or gain clarity on a particular issue.

Seeking out therapy can come with a mixture of emotions. I’ve heard of, and personally experienced, a range of thoughts & feelings including: hopeful, daunted, excited, curious, exhausted, nervous, emotional. It can be helpful to spend a little bit of time sitting with these feelings and reflecting on what you hope to gain from our work together.

I empathise that committing with your time, energy, and budget can be a complex decision. Our initial session will usually involve spending time chatting about what brings you to therapy and beginning to ‘sort the puzzle pieces’ of your life. I also hope to convey my approach and style. Research says that a safe and connected therapeutic relationship plays the most important role in client outcomes, so I wholeheartedly support you to consider whether you feel the ‘click’.

After an initial period of outlining your history and goals, each session is a time for you to speak freely about whatever is on your mind. After a lifetime in our very structured world, this can feel strange or take a little getting used to. The time we have together has no agenda, so that we can make space to tune-in & uncover what needs our attention in the moment, while gently holding in mind your broader goals for change.

The number of sessions you need will depend entirely on your individual circumstances and what brings you into therapy. I find that lasting shifts for deeper rooted concerns tend to take longer-term (20+ sessions), regular and consistent appointments. However, some clients have benefitted from shorter term support for one or two particular issues.

Typically, sessions can occur weekly or fortnightly to start with, and then decrease in frequency as you work through your concerns; however, this is flexible. You will likely get a sense of what regularity works for you. We can assess your needs and situation, and decide together on what will work best for you.

To access a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP), reach out to your General Practitioner (GP). They will ask you a few questions about your wellbeing and why you’re seeking Psychological support. Following their assessment, a MHTP is created.

A MHTP entitles you to 10 Medicare subsidised sessions per calendar year. The current rebate rate for a 50~60min Psychology session is $96.65. You’ll need to schedule a review appointment with your GP after the 6th session as a progress check-in, after which your GP can decide to approve 4 further sessions for ongoing support.

You do not necessarily need a referral or a MHTP to access Psychological support.

Unfortunately, I am unable to offer crisis support. If you need to speak to someone urgently, please call Lifeline (13 11 14) or Beyondblue (1300 22 4636). Alternatively, you can contact MH CALL (1300 64 2255) to be linked to your nearest Queensland Public Mental Health service.

I do not offer services through third parties or for legal matters.