Counselling in Melbourne, VIC
![Photo of Pete Ekstedt - Ekstedt Consulting, PACFA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5f78943-30b5-4b6f-af7f-4bed802e03e6/3/320x400.jpeg)
Senior leaders, busy professionals and creative entrepreneurs need to manage an unprecedented range of competing demands across their personal and professional lives. The pressure can be relentless, and career success can come at a high cost. Stress can have serious impacts on mental health, family relationships and physical well-being. Travel and work schedules can undermine marriages/partnerships and parenting. It makes sense to invest in your resilience, wellbeing and self care because resilient leaders achieve more.
Senior leaders, busy professionals and creative entrepreneurs need to manage an unprecedented range of competing demands across their personal and professional lives. The pressure can be relentless, and career success can come at a high cost. Stress can have serious impacts on mental health, family relationships and physical well-being. Travel and work schedules can undermine marriages/partnerships and parenting. It makes sense to invest in your resilience, wellbeing and self care because resilient leaders achieve more.
![Photo of David Lococo, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ec5f9ad-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
David Lococo
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000 (Online Only)
You may be feeling depressed, anxious, stressed or angry. Perhaps you were exposed to trauma. You may have experienced work-related issues where you were bullied or undervalued. There may be issues in your personal life with relationships or your health. You may have a disability, leaving you feeling stigmatised and isolated. Alternatively, you may be experiencing forensic/criminal matters and you need a report for court, or you are required to engage in counselling. I have nearly 20 years of experience helping people address a range of concerns.
You may be feeling depressed, anxious, stressed or angry. Perhaps you were exposed to trauma. You may have experienced work-related issues where you were bullied or undervalued. There may be issues in your personal life with relationships or your health. You may have a disability, leaving you feeling stigmatised and isolated. Alternatively, you may be experiencing forensic/criminal matters and you need a report for court, or you are required to engage in counselling. I have nearly 20 years of experience helping people address a range of concerns.
![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 Louise Gourley - Louise Gourley Counselling, PACFA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e6aa827-640e-4746-a654-e57e225f6ef4/1/320x400.jpeg)
After over 20 years as a counsellor, I have been privileged to work with clients who present with a massive variety of issues and hopes. The ideal client is the one who is brave enough to reach out and say they want something to change for them, that they want better for themselves and invite me to be an integral part of that solution - it's an honour that I take seriously, ethically, honestly and carefully. I have worked with all age groups, predominately adults, from 18 - 90, all cultures, backgrounds, religions, genders and histories - I will always be client led and supportive and professional with whatever their goals are.
After over 20 years as a counsellor, I have been privileged to work with clients who present with a massive variety of issues and hopes. The ideal client is the one who is brave enough to reach out and say they want something to change for them, that they want better for themselves and invite me to be an integral part of that solution - it's an honour that I take seriously, ethically, honestly and carefully. I have worked with all age groups, predominately adults, from 18 - 90, all cultures, backgrounds, religions, genders and histories - I will always be client led and supportive and professional with whatever their goals are.
![Photo of Dr Lingani Mbakile-Mahlanza, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cce6004-eef3-4212-a8b8-ef29e32ba743/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Lingani Mbakile-Mahlanza
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000
I specialise in seeing clients with ADHD (Children 6-12 years), Autism and Trauma (Trained in EMDR). However, I also am trained to assist with Depression, Anxiety and Stress. I prioritise diversity and inclusivity, fostering a nonjudgmental environment centred on clients’ individual experiences.
I specialise in seeing clients with ADHD (Children 6-12 years), Autism and Trauma (Trained in EMDR). However, I also am trained to assist with Depression, Anxiety and Stress. I prioritise diversity and inclusivity, fostering a nonjudgmental environment centred on clients’ individual experiences.
![Photo of Rachel McGregor, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1076508a-c07b-4fcb-a6bf-9ea38ed6c0c4/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am an experienced and warm psychologist and behaviour analyst providing effective and supportive therapy for adults and young people experiencing a range of concerns such as anxiety, stress, burnout, trauma, relationship challenges, work-related stress and mood. I believe individuals should not have to walk through life issues alone and therapy is a way to process, reflect and activate positive coping and wellbeing. You can be completely yourself in sessions. I have lots of experience working with individuals with ASD and ADHD. I also provide coaching, assertiveness training and personality assessment for professionals.
I am an experienced and warm psychologist and behaviour analyst providing effective and supportive therapy for adults and young people experiencing a range of concerns such as anxiety, stress, burnout, trauma, relationship challenges, work-related stress and mood. I believe individuals should not have to walk through life issues alone and therapy is a way to process, reflect and activate positive coping and wellbeing. You can be completely yourself in sessions. I have lots of experience working with individuals with ASD and ADHD. I also provide coaching, assertiveness training and personality assessment for professionals.
![Photo of Linda Kollind, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b18ef54c-bfc7-44eb-b6d9-08d53325decc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Linda have particular expertise in identifying, assessing and supporting neurodivergence, such as Autism, ADHD and Specific Learning Disorders, across the lifespan. Linda are using evidence based tools and a warm and individualised approach.
Linda have particular expertise in identifying, assessing and supporting neurodivergence, such as Autism, ADHD and Specific Learning Disorders, across the lifespan. Linda are using evidence based tools and a warm and individualised approach.
![Photo of Sonja Skocic - Melbourne Centre for Womens Mental Health, PhD, FAPS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ffd6434-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melbourne Centre for Womens Mental Health
Psychologist, PhD, FAPS
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3004 (Online Only)
Melbourne Centre for Women’s Mental Health is a proud Australian feminist mental health service that offers a growing number of clinical and educational programs for women and girls of Victoria. Established in 2018, we stand for anti-oppressive practices in mental health care and offer a variety of therapeutic programs and professional programs designed to empower our clients. We also conduct our own research, publish regular articles and promote lived experience voices.
Melbourne Centre for Women’s Mental Health is a proud Australian feminist mental health service that offers a growing number of clinical and educational programs for women and girls of Victoria. Established in 2018, we stand for anti-oppressive practices in mental health care and offer a variety of therapeutic programs and professional programs designed to empower our clients. We also conduct our own research, publish regular articles and promote lived experience voices.
![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 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 Thalia Koulas - Therapy Shmerapy, ACA-L2, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/55df6120-7c51-4520-86a8-74c6c40ee68f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Thalia Koulas - Therapy Shmerapy
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Melbourne, VIC 3000 (Online Only)
I specialise in supporting the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent communities, with focus on autism, ADHD, LGBTQIA+ issues, and complex trauma. I have experience working with people aged 14 and above. I aim to create a non-judgmental space, ensuring inclusivity and genuineness in every session. I can work with people at all stages of life, from queer people out in the community, to people suspecting they may be autistic. I take particular interest in AFAB and neurodivergent people, and the entire LGBTQIA+ community. I am not suitable for people seeking CBT.
I specialise in supporting the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent communities, with focus on autism, ADHD, LGBTQIA+ issues, and complex trauma. I have experience working with people aged 14 and above. I aim to create a non-judgmental space, ensuring inclusivity and genuineness in every session. I can work with people at all stages of life, from queer people out in the community, to people suspecting they may be autistic. I take particular interest in AFAB and neurodivergent people, and the entire LGBTQIA+ community. I am not suitable for people seeking CBT.
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![Photo of Michael Roth, MPsych, MAPS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f0292d0-b5f6-41ed-8136-737d1d44d9de/2/320x400.jpeg)
You may have been struggling for some time. Something isn’t working and life could be better. You have probably tried all sorts of things on your own, but therapy can be a way for you to get a fresh perspective with the help of someone who has an expertise in mental health. I am a Clinical Psychologist who works with people experiencing low mood, anxiety, past trauma, chronic pain, other health conditions, OCD, relationship difficulties, and sleep problems, and those seeking therapy as a way to live a more meaningful life. Most of my clients experience improvements in symptoms after a course of therapy.
You may have been struggling for some time. Something isn’t working and life could be better. You have probably tried all sorts of things on your own, but therapy can be a way for you to get a fresh perspective with the help of someone who has an expertise in mental health. I am a Clinical Psychologist who works with people experiencing low mood, anxiety, past trauma, chronic pain, other health conditions, OCD, relationship difficulties, and sleep problems, and those seeking therapy as a way to live a more meaningful life. Most of my clients experience improvements in symptoms after a course of therapy.
![Photo of Tim Murray, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4badd4f-b9ce-4469-922c-5eebd4faa9d4/1/320x400.png)
I work by guiding people towards their innate strengths. My goal is to empower you to master self-advocacy and resilience, creating self-acceptance and thriving relationships. We will collaborate to craft strategies for a fulfilling life that acknowledges and celebrates your unique perspective. Together, we work to create spaces where neurodiversity is not just accommodated but valued, ensuring that you are positioned to succeed and make a positive impact.
I work by guiding people towards their innate strengths. My goal is to empower you to master self-advocacy and resilience, creating self-acceptance and thriving relationships. We will collaborate to craft strategies for a fulfilling life that acknowledges and celebrates your unique perspective. Together, we work to create spaces where neurodiversity is not just accommodated but valued, ensuring that you are positioned to succeed and make a positive impact.
![Photo of Fiona Halliday - People Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dbf3e5b5-fa73-47d1-81c3-46597ac53097/1/320x400.jpeg)
Fiona Halliday - People Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000
Get help by seeing Fiona, who has extensive experience with: Women’s issues Domestic Abuse Domestic Violence (DV) Family Violence Stress management Anxiety Depression Self esteem Assertiveness Identity issues Change and transition Grief and bereavement Wellbeing and balance Self-Esteem Life Coaching Spirituality Meaning and Purpose Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) Issues, Counselling, Coaching and De-Briefing Workplace Issues Workplace Bullying Medicare, Private Health Insurers provider Psychologist Reports
Get help by seeing Fiona, who has extensive experience with: Women’s issues Domestic Abuse Domestic Violence (DV) Family Violence Stress management Anxiety Depression Self esteem Assertiveness Identity issues Change and transition Grief and bereavement Wellbeing and balance Self-Esteem Life Coaching Spirituality Meaning and Purpose Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) Issues, Counselling, Coaching and De-Briefing Workplace Issues Workplace Bullying Medicare, Private Health Insurers provider Psychologist Reports
![Photo of Ess Binet, PACFA, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29f54f01-4d4c-4c6f-a93f-42a25b1995e7/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hey, I'm stoked you've stopped by! I'm Ess, an introverted, dance obsessed, spiritual being who will drop an F-bomb in solidarity or celebration. I'm genuinely interested in learning about you and hearing your story. I'm excited for you, to be more YOU! Whether that's supporting you to: express yourself more fully, learn tools to practice self-acceptance, work through past experiences so you can embrace you now, unlearn and relearn behaviours so you can thrive... I have approx 10 years experience working in trauma/mental health, and enjoy working with folks curious about deeper self exploration + growth.
Hey, I'm stoked you've stopped by! I'm Ess, an introverted, dance obsessed, spiritual being who will drop an F-bomb in solidarity or celebration. I'm genuinely interested in learning about you and hearing your story. I'm excited for you, to be more YOU! Whether that's supporting you to: express yourself more fully, learn tools to practice self-acceptance, work through past experiences so you can embrace you now, unlearn and relearn behaviours so you can thrive... I have approx 10 years experience working in trauma/mental health, and enjoy working with folks curious about deeper self exploration + growth.
![Photo of Trina Pitcher - Flourishing Executives Psychology, MPsych, MAPS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2dd019b-9adc-41bd-8605-2b1690cf4d23/2/320x400.jpeg)
Flourishing Executives Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000 (Online Only)
Are you facing personal or professional challenges impacting wellbeing? Struggling with issues like anxiety, depression, burnout, workplace stress, self-esteem, or confidence? Navigating major life transitions or relationship difficulties? Seeking support to overcome obstacles and improve circumstances? Are you someone who wants to achieve greater emotional stability, clarity, and resilience? Develop effective coping strategies and self-management skills? Cultivate a more positive and fulfilling mindset? Feel better mentally and physically, reclaim a sense of control? Then let me help you!
Are you facing personal or professional challenges impacting wellbeing? Struggling with issues like anxiety, depression, burnout, workplace stress, self-esteem, or confidence? Navigating major life transitions or relationship difficulties? Seeking support to overcome obstacles and improve circumstances? Are you someone who wants to achieve greater emotional stability, clarity, and resilience? Develop effective coping strategies and self-management skills? Cultivate a more positive and fulfilling mindset? Feel better mentally and physically, reclaim a sense of control? Then let me help you!
![Photo of Wen Chan, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ad399db-b5fd-4767-9618-90b6980db1df/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about amplifying voices and creating spaces for individuals to freely express themselves. This includes voices of people of colour, First Nations individuals, migrants, and other marginalised minority groups that experience greater systemic barriers. For some communities, there are expectations of how one should think and behave within their cultural context. However, this can often be misaligned with their true sense of self. Being stuck in between two cultural worlds can be challenging.
I am passionate about amplifying voices and creating spaces for individuals to freely express themselves. This includes voices of people of colour, First Nations individuals, migrants, and other marginalised minority groups that experience greater systemic barriers. For some communities, there are expectations of how one should think and behave within their cultural context. However, this can often be misaligned with their true sense of self. Being stuck in between two cultural worlds can be challenging.
![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.
![Photo of Eleasa Pearce - People Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0e032a2-7d5a-46dc-900c-01f20f8b5123/2/320x400.jpeg)
Eleasa Pearce has extensive experience counselling clients and can help you if you’re experiencing: Anxiety Panic Attacks Phobias (Fear of specific things / situations) Trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Early childhood trauma Depression Relationship issues / counselling and interpersonal issues Eco anxiety and client grief Values exploration Burnout Workplace stress and career change Communication skills Grief and loss Chronic pain Stress-related conditions Coaching Anger Management Sleep difficulties Medicare, Private Health Insurers, NDIS, TAC and WorkCover Psychologist Reports. EMDR Specialist.
Eleasa Pearce has extensive experience counselling clients and can help you if you’re experiencing: Anxiety Panic Attacks Phobias (Fear of specific things / situations) Trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Early childhood trauma Depression Relationship issues / counselling and interpersonal issues Eco anxiety and client grief Values exploration Burnout Workplace stress and career change Communication skills Grief and loss Chronic pain Stress-related conditions Coaching Anger Management Sleep difficulties Medicare, Private Health Insurers, NDIS, TAC and WorkCover Psychologist Reports. EMDR Specialist.
![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)
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.
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 |
82% | Depression |
80% | Stress |
77% | Self Esteem |
74% | Relationship Issues |
69% | Trauma and PTSD |
63% | Life Transitions |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
68% | Medicare Rebates |
53% | Bupa |
43% | Medibank Private |
How Counsellors in Melbourne, VIC see their clients
68% | In Person and Online | |
32% | 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.