Frequently Asked Questions
I’m here to support you as you navigate life.
It’s common to have questions when you are considering counselling. Here are some of my commonly asked questions - just click on each question to read my response. If your question isn’t answered or you need more information, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
+ What happens in a counselling session?
You will be listened to with understanding, empathy, and without judgment and complete confidentiality. While there may be times that I suggest some techniques to help you along the way, you will never be told what to do. You are in control of this process, I am there to assist you in finding the steps that work for you and draw on the strengths you have to improve your situation and live the life you want to be living. Everything that is spoken about or any techniques used will be done so with your agreement and permission.
+ Do I have to be in crisis to seek counselling?
Absolutely not! There are many reasons people seek the support of a counsellor. Counselling offers a supportive, non-judgmental space to clarify your thoughts and feelings, decide upon the next steps you’d like to take, or sometimes even just to talk to a neutral party about your life. Please contact me to find out if counselling could possibly benefit you right now.
+ How often should I see a counsellor and how many sessions will I need?
Counselling is a personal and highly individualised process. There is no right and wrong. I have found that initially clients benefit from weekly appointments for 6 weeks. However, some clients have needed less and some have needed more. The number of sessions and how often will be decided on together, and can be reviewed at any time.
+ Is what I talk about in session confidential?
Absolutely. Your privacy and confidentiality is of the GREATEST importance. Upon booking with us you will receive an Intake and Consent form which will detail all of your rights as well the polices and legal requirements surrounding this.
+ Do I need a referral to see a counsellor?
Not at all. You can book sessions with counsellors without the need to involve anyone else, or telling anyone else you are seeing a Counsellor.
+ What type of consultations do you offer?
We can assist individuals or couples over the age of 18, either in person at our office in Caloundra on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, via phone or online.
+ What does each consultation cost?
Individual Counselling
- Initial and/or Extended $135 (80-90 mins)
- Standard $110 (50-60 mins)
Couples Counselling
- Initial and/or Extended $160 (80-90 mins)
- Standard $130 (50-60 mins)
+ Are concession rates available?
Concessions are available for Pensioner card holders. I will also endeavour to accommodate your needs/circumstances in certain instances, please feel free to call or email me directly to discuss this further.
+ What are your business hours?
Appointments are available Monday to Friday, 8am - 8pm, and Saturday, 9am to 3pm.
+ How do I pay for my appointment?
In-person consultations are paid at the end of your appointment by cash, tap-and-go using your debit/credit card or smart phone.
For telehealth consultations your card details will be captured at the time you make your booking through our secure online portal. Payment will then be automatically deducted from your account at the time of your scheduled appointment.
I am also able to take payment over the phone or by bank transfer with prior arrangement.
+ I’m a new client and just made an appointment, what happens next?
Each time you make a booking you’ll receive an appointment confirmation via email. For new clients, you’ll also receive a separate email containing an Intake and Consent form which will need to be signed and returned prior to your initial consultation. If you haven’t received the email please check your junk folder or contact me for assistance.
+ Can I get Medicare or Private Health Insurance rebates?
Unfortunately counselling is not a service that Medicare pays a benefit on and at this stage Awakened Counselling is not working in partnership with any Private Health Funds. However there are many benefits of working with a counsellor privately:
You do not require a referral from your GP to access counselling, therefore you get to choose the counsellor you are comfortable with rather than the one you are referred to.
You are not limited to the amount of sessions available under a Care Plan or your Private Health fund’s extras cover.
As no third parties such as Medicare, Private Health funds or Employee Assistance Programs are involved in your treatment, this gives you greater choice and flexibility about how and when you seek counselling.
