Counselling in Melbourne, VIC
![Photo of Dr M Ala, PhD, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/91d2fdd9-1d3a-45c8-b79b-a8500b164ae7/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a dedicated and compassionate counsellor, I support and empower clients to overcome challenges and achieve their aspirations. I specialize in providing a safe, nurturing environment where clients feel heard, valued, and understood. My client-centered approach focuses on individual needs to foster resilience and growth. My ideal client faces anxiety, emotional disturbance, stress, depression, or relationship issues. They may feel overwhelmed and need guidance to navigate their emotions, find clarity, develop coping strategies, and achieve balance and well-being. They seek a non-judgmental, empathetic counsellor with expertise.
As a dedicated and compassionate counsellor, I support and empower clients to overcome challenges and achieve their aspirations. I specialize in providing a safe, nurturing environment where clients feel heard, valued, and understood. My client-centered approach focuses on individual needs to foster resilience and growth. My ideal client faces anxiety, emotional disturbance, stress, depression, or relationship issues. They may feel overwhelmed and need guidance to navigate their emotions, find clarity, develop coping strategies, and achieve balance and well-being. They seek a non-judgmental, empathetic counsellor with expertise.
![Photo of Michele Wilesmith - People Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59c95988-b6a2-41ce-8b7d-8dcb0a823073/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michele Wilesmith - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000
Michele is a registered psychologist with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) who provides psychological counselling and support for children (15 years or older), teenagers/adolescents and adults. She believes that clients are the experts in their own lives, and she is passionate about helping people find solutions on their own terms. Michele has worked across both the public and private sectors supporting individuals and their families to achieve their goals. She enjoys working with a wide range of issues, such as anxiety, panic disorder, phobias, depression, trauma, and stress.
Michele is a registered psychologist with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) who provides psychological counselling and support for children (15 years or older), teenagers/adolescents and adults. She believes that clients are the experts in their own lives, and she is passionate about helping people find solutions on their own terms. Michele has worked across both the public and private sectors supporting individuals and their families to achieve their goals. She enjoys working with a wide range of issues, such as anxiety, panic disorder, phobias, depression, trauma, and stress.
![Photo of Leah Min Kyung Oh - Lev Clinical Psychology, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45a46f69-4a64-4e68-9c02-9b5e062dae4f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mental health can look different for every individual. My role as a psychologist largely involves assisting clients to develop emotional resilience, as well as promoting healthy behaviour change. This results in clients living a more fulfilling life, regardless of what their current and or future circumstances present. Being able to accurately assess and treat clients in a supportive environment is central to my practice. Due to the nature of my psychology training, as well as my personal experience growing up as a 1.5 generation Korean/Asian in New Zealand and Australia, cultural responsivity is also a particular interest of mine.
Mental health can look different for every individual. My role as a psychologist largely involves assisting clients to develop emotional resilience, as well as promoting healthy behaviour change. This results in clients living a more fulfilling life, regardless of what their current and or future circumstances present. Being able to accurately assess and treat clients in a supportive environment is central to my practice. Due to the nature of my psychology training, as well as my personal experience growing up as a 1.5 generation Korean/Asian in New Zealand and Australia, cultural responsivity is also a particular interest of mine.
![Photo of Carmel Batticciotto, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4ddc539-f3cc-4491-91d3-76ab933cd241/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a registered Psychologist with extensive experience helping people to improve their daily lives and reach their true potential. My passion to make a difference in the lives of others has led to a strong interest in evidence-based approaches such as Schema Therapy, DBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. I have undertaken additional training in Schema Therapy and am particularly passionate about this approach. I aim to build a warm, comfortable and collaborative space for people to improve their wellbeing through evidence-based interventions.
I am a registered Psychologist with extensive experience helping people to improve their daily lives and reach their true potential. My passion to make a difference in the lives of others has led to a strong interest in evidence-based approaches such as Schema Therapy, DBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. I have undertaken additional training in Schema Therapy and am particularly passionate about this approach. I aim to build a warm, comfortable and collaborative space for people to improve their wellbeing through evidence-based interventions.
![Photo of Patricia Lu, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64b1d38f-0866-4ac5-abd1-f1fba32b4143/1/320x400.jpeg)
Patricia Lu
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melbourne, VIC 3000
I work with people who are open to talking about their life and their journey, and are motivated to make a positive change, whether big or small. They could be seeing me for a broad spectrum of reasons; from something as simple as wanting a new face to talk to, to pursuing professional help for something they’ve been struggling with for a very long time. They are looking to feel heard and hopeful after a session—perhaps even excited to try new strategies that might be able to help them in their daily life. They understand that therapy isn’t a fix-all, but rather a process that could facilitate change
I work with people who are open to talking about their life and their journey, and are motivated to make a positive change, whether big or small. They could be seeing me for a broad spectrum of reasons; from something as simple as wanting a new face to talk to, to pursuing professional help for something they’ve been struggling with for a very long time. They are looking to feel heard and hopeful after a session—perhaps even excited to try new strategies that might be able to help them in their daily life. They understand that therapy isn’t a fix-all, but rather a process that could facilitate change
![Photo of Dr Nicolas Kessous, PsychD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ea925df-7e78-492d-a16c-3a62e70e74f2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Nicolas Kessous
Psychologist, PsychD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melbourne, VIC 3000 (Online Only)
I am a clinical and forensic psychologist registered with the Psychology Board of Australia. I am also a member of the Australian Psychological Society, and a clinical member of the Association for the Treatment & Prevention of Sexual Abuse. I was trained to practise psychology in Canada, where I began my career as a psychologist in 2013.
I am a clinical and forensic psychologist registered with the Psychology Board of Australia. I am also a member of the Australian Psychological Society, and a clinical member of the Association for the Treatment & Prevention of Sexual Abuse. I was trained to practise psychology in Canada, where I began my career as a psychologist in 2013.
![Photo of Timothy Hill, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eca80df8-b3fa-4986-97e4-0c913c285169/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi I'm Tim. I am a Registered Psychologist offering face to face sessions in West Melbourne and via telehealth. I work with adults (18+) experiencing a range of difficulties, including anxiety and depression, work related, financial and academic stress, grief, interpersonal/ relationship issues, as well as sexuality, gender and self-esteem related difficulties. I am passionate about providing a safe space for people of any sexuality, gender, sex, culture, religion or ability.
Hi I'm Tim. I am a Registered Psychologist offering face to face sessions in West Melbourne and via telehealth. I work with adults (18+) experiencing a range of difficulties, including anxiety and depression, work related, financial and academic stress, grief, interpersonal/ relationship issues, as well as sexuality, gender and self-esteem related difficulties. I am passionate about providing a safe space for people of any sexuality, gender, sex, culture, religion or ability.
![Photo of Catherine Hluchanic, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c12bc7fb-b11b-4f6d-b460-3d5d748cb9f5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Catherine Hluchanic
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000 (Online Only)
I am a registered clinical psychologist with experience working with a wide range of mental health conditions. I work primarily with concerns such as anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, shame, guilt, and many other mental health issues. I have a special interest in supporting and empowering women with their mental health, in particular perinatal mental health support. I also support many of my clients with conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder, early life attachment trauma, and anxiety disorders.
I am a registered clinical psychologist with experience working with a wide range of mental health conditions. I work primarily with concerns such as anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, shame, guilt, and many other mental health issues. I have a special interest in supporting and empowering women with their mental health, in particular perinatal mental health support. I also support many of my clients with conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder, early life attachment trauma, and anxiety disorders.
Highly experienced Psychologist proficient in a comprehensive range of evidence based therapies to support diverse client needs.
Highly experienced Psychologist proficient in a comprehensive range of evidence based therapies to support diverse client needs.
![Photo of Preeti Phartiyal - Clinical Psychologist - People Psychology, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5764092a-9de1-43d1-86a7-8d528ab21b9e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Preeti Phartiyal - Clinical Psychologist - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000
Preeti is a Clinical Psychologist specialising in working with adults aged 18 and older. Preeti’s aim is to provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Her goal is to take clients on a journey of self discovery to get a better understanding of their behaviours, ways of relating to self, others and the world. She is dedicated to helping clients connect with their inner strength to overcome challenges, develop resilience, confidently express their needs, and uncover a deep and lasting sense of fulfillment in every aspect of their lives.
Preeti is a Clinical Psychologist specialising in working with adults aged 18 and older. Preeti’s aim is to provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Her goal is to take clients on a journey of self discovery to get a better understanding of their behaviours, ways of relating to self, others and the world. She is dedicated to helping clients connect with their inner strength to overcome challenges, develop resilience, confidently express their needs, and uncover a deep and lasting sense of fulfillment in every aspect of their lives.
![Photo of Kim Dang - KD Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/476ecf50-0eb0-4fa2-9342-be4a007c7051/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kim is a registered psychologist who is experienced in delivering individual counselling and psychotherapy, assessments, and report writing to diverse populations across the lifespan (adults, adolescents, children). She believes that every client is unique in their needs, goals, and life experiences and takes an individualised client-focused approach in her practice of psychology.
Kim is a registered psychologist who is experienced in delivering individual counselling and psychotherapy, assessments, and report writing to diverse populations across the lifespan (adults, adolescents, children). She believes that every client is unique in their needs, goals, and life experiences and takes an individualised client-focused approach in her practice of psychology.
15 Second Videos
M Ala
Diya John
Tracey Alder Therapy
Monica Doyle - Trauma and Grief Therapist
Roberta Szekeres - Clinical Psychologist
Maggie Hall
Anastasia Auld
Anine Cummins (they/them) - Ginger Cat Counselling
Equator Therapies - Joe Busuttil
Stephanie Fletcher Psychology
Michael Roth
Jessica Connell
Tim Murray
Inner Collective Clinical Psychology Melbourne
Lauren Beatty - Tend Psychology
Daniella Carfi
Evelyn Gasparillo
Marina Salambasis Clinical Psychologist
Helen Su
Grigota Monasterio - Clinical Psychologist
Cody Tonkin
Georgina Draxler
Joanna Luke
Tam Korodi
Kristi Lynch
Joshua Comyn
Erin Prater
Autism and ADHD Assessments
Irene Evangelou
Eleni Tsita
Brenda Taylor
Adelaide Psychology
Holistic Psychology
Meir Kluwgant
Gender Therapy & Coaching
Contemporary Psychology
Sarah Elizabeth Hellwege
Jasmine Smith
Kathryn Anne Fortuna
Paula Garrido
Ellen Dharmaraj
Cara Miles
Reza Nejad -Clinical Psychologist
Anxiety, Depression, Grief & Loss, Trauma Informed
Nerolie Ross
Leah Wilson - Stabilise Coaching Counselling
Abelina Wolf (Psychology with Abelina)
Candice Mace
I relate Health
CounsellorOnCall
![Photo of Julia Martz, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4823e5f5-5c2d-4ada-bc2b-c4440d6de057/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julia Martz
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Julia operates via Telehealth only. Julia is a qualified Clinical Psychologist providing online therapy. She has many years of experience delivering evidence-based therapy to adults with various presenting difficulties. Julia believes in the strength of the therapeutic relationship and collaboration between client and therapist to create tailored support for each client. She brings a personable and authentic approach to supporting clients and aims to help clients make meaningful, long-lasting changes.
Julia operates via Telehealth only. Julia is a qualified Clinical Psychologist providing online therapy. She has many years of experience delivering evidence-based therapy to adults with various presenting difficulties. Julia believes in the strength of the therapeutic relationship and collaboration between client and therapist to create tailored support for each client. She brings a personable and authentic approach to supporting clients and aims to help clients make meaningful, long-lasting changes.
![Photo of Max von Sabler, PhD, FAPS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c71cb2af-dd7d-4ecc-a949-5f9fcaf93e4f/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with a variety of people including those suffering depression and anxiety, PTSD and complex trauma, personality disorders including borderline personality disorder, as well as dissociative disorders and complex mood conditions. I also work frequently with OCD and sexual addictions/disorders. My approach is holistic and focused on identifying your needs and goals, and how we can best achieve these together. I am a clinical psychologist and focus strongly on the assessment process - I believe it's important to establish exactly what may be happening so that we are on the same page. Treatment is always tailored to the individual
I work with a variety of people including those suffering depression and anxiety, PTSD and complex trauma, personality disorders including borderline personality disorder, as well as dissociative disorders and complex mood conditions. I also work frequently with OCD and sexual addictions/disorders. My approach is holistic and focused on identifying your needs and goals, and how we can best achieve these together. I am a clinical psychologist and focus strongly on the assessment process - I believe it's important to establish exactly what may be happening so that we are on the same page. Treatment is always tailored to the individual
![Photo of Diya John, MPsych, ACA-L1, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3b4a6f8-3747-4b42-b53a-8cde72092076/1/320x400.jpeg)
I offer a safe space for expats, immigrants and the international community around Asia Pacific. As someone who moved to a new country (Japan) in the midst of the pandemic, I understand the complex feelings that come with moving homes, beginning a new journey and integrating into a new culture without losing what makes you unique. I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, low mood or loss of motivation, coping with life changes, trauma, grief & loss, and navigating loneliness/ relationships & dating life in a foreign city. I also draw from my 10 years of corporate experience in my approach to work-related issues.
I offer a safe space for expats, immigrants and the international community around Asia Pacific. As someone who moved to a new country (Japan) in the midst of the pandemic, I understand the complex feelings that come with moving homes, beginning a new journey and integrating into a new culture without losing what makes you unique. I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, low mood or loss of motivation, coping with life changes, trauma, grief & loss, and navigating loneliness/ relationships & dating life in a foreign city. I also draw from my 10 years of corporate experience in my approach to work-related issues.
![Photo of Malena Gutierrez, PACFA, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c9868a9-3db6-4d19-8065-d58014ef22cf/3/320x400.jpeg)
Malena is a registered Psychotherapist with a Degree in Psychology (Mexico). She has been working with the Spanish speaking community for more that a decade in Australia, and has more than 20 years in Private Practice. She works with adults and with couples, and offers Sex therapy. Some of the issues she works with are emotional pain, depression, anxiety, stress and anger management, infidelity, separation, difference in sex drive. She provides a safe and understanding environment where her clients can express their emotions, feel understood and find their strength to overcome even the most adverse of the circumstances.
Malena is a registered Psychotherapist with a Degree in Psychology (Mexico). She has been working with the Spanish speaking community for more that a decade in Australia, and has more than 20 years in Private Practice. She works with adults and with couples, and offers Sex therapy. Some of the issues she works with are emotional pain, depression, anxiety, stress and anger management, infidelity, separation, difference in sex drive. She provides a safe and understanding environment where her clients can express their emotions, feel understood and find their strength to overcome even the most adverse of the circumstances.
![Photo of Magdalena Mroczka - Reset & Grow Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c1f1dbe-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Magda's clients vary from well-seasoned in therapy to these who never worked with a psychologist before. Many are experiencing a major life transition such as geographical relocation, relationship breakdown/dissatisfaction or a career transition. It is her vision and passion to facilitate individuals, couples and families in connect to their values, learning practical tools to cope with life's challenges more effectively, and live happier and more meaningful lives. She specialises in providing services to culturally and linguistically diverse clients, LGBTQI clients, and clients who identify as religious and/or spiritual.
Magda's clients vary from well-seasoned in therapy to these who never worked with a psychologist before. Many are experiencing a major life transition such as geographical relocation, relationship breakdown/dissatisfaction or a career transition. It is her vision and passion to facilitate individuals, couples and families in connect to their values, learning practical tools to cope with life's challenges more effectively, and live happier and more meaningful lives. She specialises in providing services to culturally and linguistically diverse clients, LGBTQI clients, and clients who identify as religious and/or spiritual.
![Photo of Tracey Alder - Tracey Alder Therapy, MSc](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aed9a188-d114-448e-861e-e5b3407c6cb8/1/320x400.jpeg)
This is not the life you wanted. You are not the person you hoped to become. Your choices and decisions prevent any relief from the constant, nagging anxiety that disrupts your sleep and impacts your health. It may be that the damage of a difficult upbringing is still causing sustained harm to your present relationships, and your all-important sense of self. But whatever the root cause of your suffering, it's always so much harder to overcome alone. I'm here to support you in that struggle as we work to understand and address your unhappiness in a safe, constructive, trauma-informed space.
This is not the life you wanted. You are not the person you hoped to become. Your choices and decisions prevent any relief from the constant, nagging anxiety that disrupts your sleep and impacts your health. It may be that the damage of a difficult upbringing is still causing sustained harm to your present relationships, and your all-important sense of self. But whatever the root cause of your suffering, it's always so much harder to overcome alone. I'm here to support you in that struggle as we work to understand and address your unhappiness in a safe, constructive, trauma-informed space.
![Photo of Monica Doyle - Monica Doyle - Trauma and Grief Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cd87c409-d553-4979-93b4-8979ca76cb15/2/320x400.jpeg)
Have you suffered trauma in your past? Do you feel triggered and can't quite understand why? Excessive anger, paralyzing fear, feelings of emptiness, constant anxiety, sense of powerlessness, lingering sadness. They are most likely related to repressed feelings and they can leave a trail of unconscious destruction behind. What if you take charge? What if you decide it is time to finally bring those feelings to the surface and face them? That's called integration. It's when you get to know and eventually accept yourself. The fact you are reading this now shows you are ready to take that step. And I will be right there with you.
Have you suffered trauma in your past? Do you feel triggered and can't quite understand why? Excessive anger, paralyzing fear, feelings of emptiness, constant anxiety, sense of powerlessness, lingering sadness. They are most likely related to repressed feelings and they can leave a trail of unconscious destruction behind. What if you take charge? What if you decide it is time to finally bring those feelings to the surface and face them? That's called integration. It's when you get to know and eventually accept yourself. The fact you are reading this now shows you are ready to take that step. And I will be right there with you.
![Photo of Roberta Szekeres - Clinical Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51fc6e7f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Roberta Szekeres - Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000
I aspire to be a warm, engaging and non-judgmental clinical psychologist who is passionate about improving the well-being and growth of my clients. I practice a holistic and empowering approach in therapy to help clients better cope with challenging life situations and reach their potential. I have worked as a clinical psychologist for 13 years, primarily in private clinics. Before becoming a clinical psychologist, I spent several years abroad as a social worker and teaching at universities.
I aspire to be a warm, engaging and non-judgmental clinical psychologist who is passionate about improving the well-being and growth of my clients. I practice a holistic and empowering approach in therapy to help clients better cope with challenging life situations and reach their potential. I have worked as a clinical psychologist for 13 years, primarily in private clinics. Before becoming a clinical psychologist, I spent several years abroad as a social worker and teaching at universities.
![Photo of Kellie Errington, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2debe700-345f-4abf-ac6c-27dd994d45ff/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kellie Errington
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000 (Online Only)
I am a compassionate psychologist dedicated to improving my clients’ mental health and general wellbeing. I have experience working within the forensic and community sectors supporting adults who exhibit complex and challenging behaviours. I work collaboratively with you to understand the origins of your presenting concerns with a focus upon empowering you achieve your therapeutic goals.
I am a compassionate psychologist dedicated to improving my clients’ mental health and general wellbeing. I have experience working within the forensic and community sectors supporting adults who exhibit complex and challenging behaviours. I work collaboratively with you to understand the origins of your presenting concerns with a focus upon empowering you achieve your therapeutic goals.
See more therapy options for Melbourne
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Melbourne, VIC
1,000+
Average cost per session
$180
Counsellors in Melbourne, VIC who prioritize treating:
90% | Anxiety |
83% | Depression |
80% | Stress |
76% | Self Esteem |
74% | Relationship Issues |
69% | Trauma and PTSD |
63% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
67% | Medicare Rebates |
53% | Bupa |
44% | NDIS |
How Counsellors in Melbourne, VIC see their clients
69% | In Person and Online | |
31% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
74% | Female | |
24% | Male | |
2% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Melbourne?
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.