Counselling in 2444
![Photo of Laurie Eakin, ACA-L1, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed953b6c-7f0a-43eb-acdd-50f6410185dd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Feeling anxious, sad, under stress and need to talk to someone or find out how you can manage your life better? It doesn’t always have to be hard! Life can be full and rich and meaningful. I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to work through the challenges and help clients move towards greater psychological flexibility, living a more values-based life than they may have been able to achieve previously.
Feeling anxious, sad, under stress and need to talk to someone or find out how you can manage your life better? It doesn’t always have to be hard! Life can be full and rich and meaningful. I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to work through the challenges and help clients move towards greater psychological flexibility, living a more values-based life than they may have been able to achieve previously.
![Photo of Stefanie Morgan - Space Wellness (NSW) - Stef Morgan, ACA-L1, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8aa91cec-5a89-4320-9d57-a7fb622c0adf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Space Wellness (NSW) - Stef Morgan
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Port Macquarie, NSW 2444
Do you feel somewhat stuck? Perhaps overwhelm, physical pain or yearning for something different? Maybe you'd simply like to do better? Why not consider a coupling of counselling, clinical hypnotherapy and strategic psychotherapy? Unaware, you may be running outdated patterns which are at odds with the YOU of today, making it difficult to navigate and effect change. I use permissive Ericksonian hypnotherapy (particularly the Gordian Pillars) to uncover well-worn patterns of stuckness, then gently infuse the subconscious with alternate options. Safe, effective, gentle and life-changing.
Do you feel somewhat stuck? Perhaps overwhelm, physical pain or yearning for something different? Maybe you'd simply like to do better? Why not consider a coupling of counselling, clinical hypnotherapy and strategic psychotherapy? Unaware, you may be running outdated patterns which are at odds with the YOU of today, making it difficult to navigate and effect change. I use permissive Ericksonian hypnotherapy (particularly the Gordian Pillars) to uncover well-worn patterns of stuckness, then gently infuse the subconscious with alternate options. Safe, effective, gentle and life-changing.
![Photo of Tori Donnelly - Tori Donnelly Counselling and Support , MA, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8acfeec-0585-4aef-bd7c-09296f776a0b/1/320x400.png)
Tori Donnelly Counselling and Support
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Port Macquarie, NSW 2444
Tori is a Mental Health Accredited Social Worker and Certified Play Therapist, specialising in sexual abuse and other forms of trauma. Tori works with children, adolescents and adults with a trauma-informed approach.
Tori is a Mental Health Accredited Social Worker and Certified Play Therapist, specialising in sexual abuse and other forms of trauma. Tori works with children, adolescents and adults with a trauma-informed approach.
![Photo of Cherie Gillett, MA, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aff3298a-a349-495c-97b3-685086563c2b/2/320x400.png)
Cherie Gillett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Port Macquarie, NSW 2444 (Online Only)
Welcome! I understand that seeking therapy for trauma can be a vulnerable and courageous step towards healing, and I celebrate you for taking that step. My name is Cherie, and as a trauma therapist, my utmost priority is to create a calm, safe and compassionate space where you can embark on your healing journey. I believe in the power of healing, and I am dedicated to providing you with the support and guidance you need to navigate the complexities of trauma. With empathy and understanding, I will honor your unique experiences and encourage the body's wisdom and capacity for healing.
Welcome! I understand that seeking therapy for trauma can be a vulnerable and courageous step towards healing, and I celebrate you for taking that step. My name is Cherie, and as a trauma therapist, my utmost priority is to create a calm, safe and compassionate space where you can embark on your healing journey. I believe in the power of healing, and I am dedicated to providing you with the support and guidance you need to navigate the complexities of trauma. With empathy and understanding, I will honor your unique experiences and encourage the body's wisdom and capacity for healing.
Shelley is a dedicated mental health social worker with an unwavering commitment to promoting emotional well-being and resilience. With a background of nine years in the Mental Health field as a counsellor, and two and a half years in Private Practice, Shelley brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her work. In her practice, Shelley employs evidence-based therapies, understanding that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to mental health challenges. She is deeply committed to staying current with the latest developments in the field, ensuring that her clients receive the most effective and up-to-date support available.
Shelley is a dedicated mental health social worker with an unwavering commitment to promoting emotional well-being and resilience. With a background of nine years in the Mental Health field as a counsellor, and two and a half years in Private Practice, Shelley brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her work. In her practice, Shelley employs evidence-based therapies, understanding that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to mental health challenges. She is deeply committed to staying current with the latest developments in the field, ensuring that her clients receive the most effective and up-to-date support available.
![Photo of Anne Brown, MA, ACA-L4, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64d96f44-6819-4eb9-8155-a55fc1f4f5ed/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anne loves working young people, adults and couples and has 24 years of experience in counselling. She has a holistic approach, focusing on the balance between physical, emotional, social, cognitive and spiritual aspects of self. Anne provides a safe and healing place to work through difficulties in life. She specialises in areas of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, parenting and relationship challenges. Anne is trained in Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR), expressive therapy, Gottman therapy, Theraplay and is informed by a variety of approaches including psychodynamic and attachment focussed approaches
Anne loves working young people, adults and couples and has 24 years of experience in counselling. She has a holistic approach, focusing on the balance between physical, emotional, social, cognitive and spiritual aspects of self. Anne provides a safe and healing place to work through difficulties in life. She specialises in areas of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, parenting and relationship challenges. Anne is trained in Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR), expressive therapy, Gottman therapy, Theraplay and is informed by a variety of approaches including psychodynamic and attachment focussed approaches
![Photo of Jamie Dimech - DOMIA Mind Body Connect, ACA-L2, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/305b1176-b5c0-4b27-85b3-9a75f11b8409/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Jamie and I have supported children, young people, adults, foster and kinship carers in the therapeutic space for over 10 years. Sessions are guided by your needs and what feels most safe for you to explore at any given time. I am there to act as a guide to support you on your healing journey. As a mother of two little ones, I understand the challenges and fulfillment we experience as parents. I am deeply passionate about supporting parents, foster, and kinship carers to navigate the complexities of fostering, parenthood as well as preparing for birth and beyond.
My name is Jamie and I have supported children, young people, adults, foster and kinship carers in the therapeutic space for over 10 years. Sessions are guided by your needs and what feels most safe for you to explore at any given time. I am there to act as a guide to support you on your healing journey. As a mother of two little ones, I understand the challenges and fulfillment we experience as parents. I am deeply passionate about supporting parents, foster, and kinship carers to navigate the complexities of fostering, parenthood as well as preparing for birth and beyond.
![Photo of Andrew Berry - Andrew Berry Counselling, MC, PACFA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62fde259-c240-4a73-a34c-c182728138fd/3/320x400.jpeg)
If life feels like a struggle or if you’re just not coping so well, please reach out and contact me. I offer you my experience, expertise and support to help you overcome the challenges that you’re going through. Many people see me for help with depression and anxiety, relationship difficulties, anger management, communication issues, emotional instability, and more broadly, for finding life direction and meaning again.
If life feels like a struggle or if you’re just not coping so well, please reach out and contact me. I offer you my experience, expertise and support to help you overcome the challenges that you’re going through. Many people see me for help with depression and anxiety, relationship difficulties, anger management, communication issues, emotional instability, and more broadly, for finding life direction and meaning again.
![Photo of Shené Regan, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d725ff07-74b2-4a2d-9c61-4c4381fa4caa/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hey there! I'm Shené, an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, specialising in supporting children, adolescents, and women. From a young age, I envisioned creating a place where children and their families could find the support they need. Over time, this vision has evolved. Today, I am driven not only to assist children coping with loss but also to support anyone navigating the profound impact of trauma, and grief and loss. My passion extends to nurturing thriving families, with a particular focus on supporting new mothers and their babies through the transformative and often challenging post-natal period and beyond.
Hey there! I'm Shené, an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, specialising in supporting children, adolescents, and women. From a young age, I envisioned creating a place where children and their families could find the support they need. Over time, this vision has evolved. Today, I am driven not only to assist children coping with loss but also to support anyone navigating the profound impact of trauma, and grief and loss. My passion extends to nurturing thriving families, with a particular focus on supporting new mothers and their babies through the transformative and often challenging post-natal period and beyond.
![Photo of Beth Roberts, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/97919495-8230-4210-8260-9becff9e3df4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Beth is a warm and compassionate Psychologist with a special interest in treating adolescents and young adults with Eating Disorders, body image concerns and related issues such as depression, anxiety and trauma. She strongly believes that everybody deserves to be treated with respect and all bodies deserve respect. Beth works with clients aged 13-35yrs
Beth is a warm and compassionate Psychologist with a special interest in treating adolescents and young adults with Eating Disorders, body image concerns and related issues such as depression, anxiety and trauma. She strongly believes that everybody deserves to be treated with respect and all bodies deserve respect. Beth works with clients aged 13-35yrs
![Photo of Ernest Materyn, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc595d78-a4a0-409e-9bcc-3f8b59e68cbd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Finding the right psychologist might not happen at first try, but the journey is worth it. When you do find that connection, it's like a light clicks on—you suddenly feel deeply understood, much like a story that seems written just for you.
Finding the right psychologist might not happen at first try, but the journey is worth it. When you do find that connection, it's like a light clicks on—you suddenly feel deeply understood, much like a story that seems written just for you.
15 Second Videos
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![Photo of Catherine O'Leary - first things first counselling, MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/196bd094-d567-4773-88b5-4619c77540eb/1/320x400.jpeg)
first things first counselling
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Port Macquarie, NSW 2444 (Online Only)
I am an experienced trauma-informed therapist. I work well with people who are ready to do 'the work'. I briefly bring strategies that can be useful to your everyday life initially, relying on modalities such as mindfulness and polyvagal theory, before moving into deeper work based in Internal Family Systems (IFS), if and when the time is right. I assist/guide you to reveal and heal the parts of you that carry thoughts, feelings and behaviours that no longer serve you. It is not always doom and gloom. We work together light-heartedly to safely reveal your unconscious motivations and inner strength, towards lasting healing. It works.
I am an experienced trauma-informed therapist. I work well with people who are ready to do 'the work'. I briefly bring strategies that can be useful to your everyday life initially, relying on modalities such as mindfulness and polyvagal theory, before moving into deeper work based in Internal Family Systems (IFS), if and when the time is right. I assist/guide you to reveal and heal the parts of you that carry thoughts, feelings and behaviours that no longer serve you. It is not always doom and gloom. We work together light-heartedly to safely reveal your unconscious motivations and inner strength, towards lasting healing. It works.
![Photo of Jenni Lemmerman - Be the Change Counselling - Jenni Lemmerman, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d0569c4-0dfd-4399-86c2-7a6bb52a2be6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Be the Change Counselling - Jenni Lemmerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Port Macquarie, NSW 2444 (Online Only)
Most of us spend a lot of time doing things for others, and it usually means we don’t take the best care of ourselves. Overtime many of us will experience a number of concerns or face unforeseen challenges, such as relationship worries, family dynamics, parenting, trauma, employment or educational problems, bereavement, becoming a Carer or unexpected illness. When we forget to make time for ourselves and take care of our own needs, we can lose our sense of who we really are. If you’re feeling lost or are uncertain of how to make the changes. If you’re feeling like you need to reconnect with yourself and refocus, then I'm here help.
Most of us spend a lot of time doing things for others, and it usually means we don’t take the best care of ourselves. Overtime many of us will experience a number of concerns or face unforeseen challenges, such as relationship worries, family dynamics, parenting, trauma, employment or educational problems, bereavement, becoming a Carer or unexpected illness. When we forget to make time for ourselves and take care of our own needs, we can lose our sense of who we really are. If you’re feeling lost or are uncertain of how to make the changes. If you’re feeling like you need to reconnect with yourself and refocus, then I'm here help.
![Photo of Akram Youssef - Caring Hearts Counselling Services - Akram Youssef, ACA-L1, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a92d6a48-ab4f-405c-bc11-8245a752b80e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Caring Hearts Counselling Services - Akram Youssef
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Port Macquarie, NSW 2444
Youth often grapple with questions of identity, self-esteem, and a desire to understand their place in the world, managing academic pressures, career decisions, and future uncertainties, while their goals are to develop a strong sense of self, increased self-awareness, and confidence in navigating life's challenges. Couples need improving communication, resolving conflicts, navigating major life changes such as marriage, parenthood, or career shifts , and understanding each other, while their goals are supporting each other through transitions, adapting to change, and maintaining a strong partnership.
Youth often grapple with questions of identity, self-esteem, and a desire to understand their place in the world, managing academic pressures, career decisions, and future uncertainties, while their goals are to develop a strong sense of self, increased self-awareness, and confidence in navigating life's challenges. Couples need improving communication, resolving conflicts, navigating major life changes such as marriage, parenthood, or career shifts , and understanding each other, while their goals are supporting each other through transitions, adapting to change, and maintaining a strong partnership.
Olivia's experience as a Clinical Counsellor comes with more than a decade in private practice and pastoral care roles. Specialising in anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, workplace bullying, addictions, relationship counselling, family/blended, mediation, child and young adults, grief and anger management. Clientele include corporate who utilise workplace EAP and NDIS clients & private clients with an age range of 6 to 85 years. Face to Face, Video-link or Phone sessions are offered. Olivia who is known for her sincere, peaceful and non-judgmental manner uses evidence based therapies recognising there is no one size fits all.
Olivia's experience as a Clinical Counsellor comes with more than a decade in private practice and pastoral care roles. Specialising in anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, workplace bullying, addictions, relationship counselling, family/blended, mediation, child and young adults, grief and anger management. Clientele include corporate who utilise workplace EAP and NDIS clients & private clients with an age range of 6 to 85 years. Face to Face, Video-link or Phone sessions are offered. Olivia who is known for her sincere, peaceful and non-judgmental manner uses evidence based therapies recognising there is no one size fits all.
![Photo of Denise Horwood - Family Life Counselling and Support Services, PACFA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a6e0b01-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Family Life Counselling and Support Services
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Macquarie, NSW 2444
I believe that we can all lead meaningful and fulfilling lives, regardless of, and in spite of our circumstances, background, abilities, diagnoses or age. My aim to help you find your purpose, and uncover the significance of your life. It is a joy is to assist clients of all ages and backgrounds, on their individual and uniquely crafted journey towards new possibilities. I use a range of counselling and psychotherapy techniques including some creative therapies.
I believe that we can all lead meaningful and fulfilling lives, regardless of, and in spite of our circumstances, background, abilities, diagnoses or age. My aim to help you find your purpose, and uncover the significance of your life. It is a joy is to assist clients of all ages and backgrounds, on their individual and uniquely crafted journey towards new possibilities. I use a range of counselling and psychotherapy techniques including some creative therapies.
![Photo of Alena Piccolruaz, MPsych, Assoc MAPS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4eb1e94a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have a special interest in working with children, adolescents, and families in addition to supporting mums and dads through pregnancy and post-pregnancy. Issues treated (but not limited to) include; anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, school issues, suicidal thinking, personality disorder, anger management, gender transitioning, self-harm, grief and loss, work related issues (Workcover accredited psych), life coaching, relationship matters, family mediation, court and legal reports and the teaching of parenting skills. I also offer couples, family and marital therapy. I am also an accredited Supervisor to other psychologists.
I have a special interest in working with children, adolescents, and families in addition to supporting mums and dads through pregnancy and post-pregnancy. Issues treated (but not limited to) include; anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, school issues, suicidal thinking, personality disorder, anger management, gender transitioning, self-harm, grief and loss, work related issues (Workcover accredited psych), life coaching, relationship matters, family mediation, court and legal reports and the teaching of parenting skills. I also offer couples, family and marital therapy. I am also an accredited Supervisor to other psychologists.
![Photo of Nicole Osborn - Art of Mindful Psychology - Nicole Osborn, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/482461c8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Art of Mindful Psychology - Nicole Osborn
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Port Macquarie, NSW 2444
I am an NDIS Registered Child and Adolescent Psycotherapist sp in Autism with Advanced training in Acceptance Commitment Therapy. I offer analysis, Behavioral Therapy, ABA, Art as Therapy, and Emotional and Psychological support for all ages, and needs, including parents, families, schools and teachers. Areas include autism, anxiety, depression, ADD, ADHD, OCD, grief/loss, social and behavioural issues, sexual assault and more. I am known for my unconventional ways of working which works well with children and young adults. Please email info@artofmindfulpsychology with a brief description and best contact to arrange an appointment.
I am an NDIS Registered Child and Adolescent Psycotherapist sp in Autism with Advanced training in Acceptance Commitment Therapy. I offer analysis, Behavioral Therapy, ABA, Art as Therapy, and Emotional and Psychological support for all ages, and needs, including parents, families, schools and teachers. Areas include autism, anxiety, depression, ADD, ADHD, OCD, grief/loss, social and behavioural issues, sexual assault and more. I am known for my unconventional ways of working which works well with children and young adults. Please email info@artofmindfulpsychology with a brief description and best contact to arrange an appointment.
![Photo of Aarthi Udayakumar, PACFA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8e4d79d-9b2c-451f-905b-2a568aced5ae/1/320x400.jpeg)
Aarthi is registered as a clinical counsellor with the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA). She brings over 10 years of experience working directly with clients from all walks of life. Aarthi has experience working with individuals and families experiencing concerns relating to couples, domestic and family violence, trauma, grief and loss, child welfare and wellbeing, as well as depression, anxiety and a variety of other mental health issues. She has experience using trauma informed, strengths-based and outcomes focussed practices. Aarthi is dedicated to providing a service that is person-centred.
Aarthi is registered as a clinical counsellor with the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA). She brings over 10 years of experience working directly with clients from all walks of life. Aarthi has experience working with individuals and families experiencing concerns relating to couples, domestic and family violence, trauma, grief and loss, child welfare and wellbeing, as well as depression, anxiety and a variety of other mental health issues. She has experience using trauma informed, strengths-based and outcomes focussed practices. Aarthi is dedicated to providing a service that is person-centred.
![Photo of Heulwen Gordon, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca9f85ac-44fb-417a-8c37-6950b41209b9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heulwen Gordon
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Port Macquarie, NSW 2444 (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Heulwen and I am a clinical psychologist providing online therapy. I take a holistic and client centred approach based on evidence based tools and research. I am a warm and compassionate practitioner providing individual therapy to women with chronic stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, burnout, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and relationship issues.
Hi, my name is Heulwen and I am a clinical psychologist providing online therapy. I take a holistic and client centred approach based on evidence based tools and research. I am a warm and compassionate practitioner providing individual therapy to women with chronic stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, burnout, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and relationship issues.
See more therapy options for 2444
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in 2444
30+
Average cost per session
$140
Counsellors in 2444 who prioritize treating:
89% | Anxiety |
78% | Depression |
78% | Stress |
72% | Trauma and PTSD |
69% | Relationship Issues |
69% | Self Esteem |
64% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
79% | NDIS |
53% | Teachers Health |
47% | Bupa |
How Counsellors in 2444 see their clients
73% | In Person and Online | |
27% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
20% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in 2444?
Search for nearby psychologists or counsellors by inputting your city, suburb, postcode, or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or postcode into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
Counsellors and Psychotherapists listed in the directory are members of the main professional associations, mainly the Australian Counselling Association and the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia. Psychologists must be registered in the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). Most Social Workers listed in the directory are members of the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW).
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given that professional memberships are not a statutory requirement for social workers, psychotherapists and counsellors in Australia, certain qualified professionals or organisations may choose not to maintain such memberships despite possessing the necessary qualifications. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given that professional memberships are not a statutory requirement for social workers, psychotherapists and counsellors in Australia, certain qualified professionals or organisations may choose not to maintain such memberships despite possessing the necessary qualifications. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counsellor?
Counsellors, psychotherapists and psychologists can all provide counselling or talking therapy and have credentials and experience that enable them to do so in Australia.
Psychologists have earned a 4 year undergraduate degree in psychology and have completed a postgraduate internship or postgraduate degree. Psychotherapists generally have an undergraduate degree in a health related field in addition to 3-4 years of specialist training in psychotherapy and a period of personal psychotherapy. In order to belong to a professional organisation such as the ACA or PACFA, counsellors and psychotherapists are required to have completed a certain level of AQF qualifications and/ or an approved training course as well as clinical and supervision hours. Social Workers registered with the AASW are required to have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Social Work from an accredited institution.
Psychologists have earned a 4 year undergraduate degree in psychology and have completed a postgraduate internship or postgraduate degree. Psychotherapists generally have an undergraduate degree in a health related field in addition to 3-4 years of specialist training in psychotherapy and a period of personal psychotherapy. In order to belong to a professional organisation such as the ACA or PACFA, counsellors and psychotherapists are required to have completed a certain level of AQF qualifications and/ or an approved training course as well as clinical and supervision hours. Social Workers registered with the AASW are required to have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Social Work from an accredited institution.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, the cost of a therapy session in Australia could be between $100 and $250. If you have private insurance, your plan may cover some if not all of your sessions. You should contact your insurance provider to determine if they provide coverage for therapy sessions and to determine what, if any, requirements they might have in order for your sessions to be covered, such as a referral from your GP or medical specialist.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. The Better Access Scheme is a government program offering Medicare rebates for mental health care. To access the program you will need to be assessed and diagnosed by your GP and get a Mental Health Plan. This will allow you to receive up to 10 individual sessions and 10 group sessions a year with practitioners who accept bulk billing, with no out of pocket costs for you.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. The Better Access Scheme is a government program offering Medicare rebates for mental health care. To access the program you will need to be assessed and diagnosed by your GP and get a Mental Health Plan. This will allow you to receive up to 10 individual sessions and 10 group sessions a year with practitioners who accept bulk billing, with no out of pocket costs for you.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your postcode.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Therapists who are part of a professional organisation such as the ACA, PACFA, or the APS are bound by an ethical framework that requires them to uphold a confidentiality agreement. Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship and only under specific circumstances, such as when there is the potential or known harm to the client or others or when a minor is in danger, will a therapist be obligated to break the agreement. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed during the initial consultation.