Frequently Asked Questions

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Yes, new clients can call or book online today. Find the next available appointment here

No, you do not require a referral. You can book online directly or call 0421 224 070

Fees

Individual Counselling $140 (50–min)

Couple Counselling $175 (50–min)

NDIS Disability Counselling $156.16 (60–min)

Cancellation

Although no shows will incur a normal session fee, this cost can be avoided by giving 24 hours notice

Medicare

Australia does not allow Counsellors and Psychotherapists to take part in the government Medicare rebate system. Medicare Rebates are not available for Couple Therapy with either Counsellors or Psychologists. The benefits of not using Medicare mean your attendance is not included on your health record, and there is no limit to the amount of sessions you can have. This means greater privacy and greater autonomy. Counselling is an affordable investment into your growth and a healthy relationship

Online

Online therapy is flexible and convenient, confidential and affordable, and uses secure platforms. Online therapy provides accessibility through remote sessions, eliminating physical restrictions and barriers, and is best suited for couple and relationship therapy, bereavement counselling, and NDIS disability counselling

In-person at 9 Mark Street Forster

Person-centred therapy supporting you through life-transitions, bereavement, anxiety or depression so that you gain more understanding of your behaviours, decisions and choices. Within a therapeutic setting, In-person therapy promotes a more a tactile experience and direct connection through unspoken feelings

Qualifications & Professional Affiliations

• Registered Counsellor, Level 2 Member with  Australian Counselling Association
• Master of Counselling, Torrens University
• Graduate Diploma Arts, (Specialisation Counselling), Sydney College of Divinity (2011)
• Bachelor of Applied Science Health Education, University of Canberra (1990)
• Member MCEFT Melbourne Community of Emotionally Focused Therapy

Yes, apart from normal business hours, I also offer by appointment, and early evening and Saturday morning counselling sessions

Person-centred therapy supporting you through life-transitions, bereavement, anxiety or depression so that you gain more understanding of your behaviours, decisions and choices. Within a therapeutic setting, In-person therapy promotes a more a tactile experience and direct connection through unspoken feelings. Choosing the most effective strategies for your situation, counselling guides and support you through life’s challenges,  and draws on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solutions Focused Therapy, or Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy

Most people benefit from around six to ten sessions or more, usually at fortnightly intervals. During your first session we discuss your particular needs and desired outcomes before agreeing together on a counselling plan

Yes, I provide services to both private paying clients and NDIS Plan and Self-Managed participants. The NDIS recognises counselling as an important intervention for people who live with disability. Counselling Solution sessions are available under the NDIS category: Improved Daily Living Skills—Individual Counselling—support item 15_043_0128_1_3

I understand how people living with disability and their families have special needs for accessing, expressing, and understanding information, and our sessions are focused on the participant's unique needs and abilities. My counselling rooms are wheelchair accessible, and there is an accessible toilet

Since 1994 I have worked in the disability arena developing training resources, educating workers, and running support groups. In the late 1990s I was the community development officer for the Brain Injury Association NSW, helping people with brain injury develop life skills for a better life. I regularly cover issues around sexuality, relationships, women's health, body image, abuse, and emotional regulation. More recently, since 2020, I have a specialist focus on ASD clients (Autism Spectrum Disorder) and ADHD

Call 0421 224 070 to discuss specific disability requirements

Read my BLOG by 'A Fly on the Wall'

Yes, my 'BLOG by 'A Fly on the Wall' has anonymised extracts of my notes and thoughts from past counselling sessions

Relationships— Relationships Australia, Psychology Today Relationships, The Gottman Institute

Headspace Self Help (mental health), headspace.org.au

General wellbeing, sleep and stress skills—This Way Up, thiswayup.org.au

CRISIS Call Lifeline on 13 11 14, lifeline.org.au

Mindfulness, actmindfully.com.au

Mindfulness exercise—Leaves on a Stream,  youtu.be/r1C8

Fact Sheets on ADHD, adhdguideline.aadpa.com.au