FAQs
What is involved in a therapy session?
The first session involves a detailed discussion about the main presenting issues, as well as exploring your mental health history, any past experiences that might have contributed to your current mental health, and finally outlining the main goals you have for therapy.
Subsequent sessions generally involve providing a space to talk through the main issues, whilst also teaching specific strategies drawn from evidence based psychological therapies that encourage new ways of thinking to increase your sense of coping. Changing old habits of behaviour that have previously kept a client stuck or have been maladaptive ways of coping may also be explored.
How many sessions will I need?
Depending on what has brought you to therapy, this can vary considerably. Significant improvements in mental health and wellbeing can usually be achieved in up to 6 sessions. More complex issues may require longer term work.
Do I need a referral?
No, a referral isn’t required. You can simply phone to make an appointment or book online. If you would like to obtain Medicare rebates, however, you will need to see your Doctor to obtain a mental health care plan.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a Psychologist?
Not necessarily, therapy is not only for those with diagnosed clinical disorders. Many people I see for therapy are generally able to function day to day, however, may have encountered some stressful life experiences that have contributed to a reduced sense of coping. Therapy is about helping people build up their coping strategies to strengthen their resilience in coping with adverse life experiences in future.
What age range of clients do you see?
While I have extensive experience with clients across the lifespan, I currently provide therapy to adults. I have a specialised interest in providing support to people in the perinatal period.