Counselling in Wollongong, NSW
![Photo of Courtney Luftig, AMHSW, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dac3d577-9492-4c2d-ab76-ea07f118d939/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues? I'm Courtney, a therapist specializing in these areas, and I’m here to help you find a path forward. I offer individual and couples therapy tailored to your unique needs. Together, we’ll explore your emotions, behaviors, and relationships, working towards meaningful growth and lasting change. If you’re ready to transform your life, reach out today for a free 15-minute consultation. Let's begin your journey to a more fulfilling future.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues? I'm Courtney, a therapist specializing in these areas, and I’m here to help you find a path forward. I offer individual and couples therapy tailored to your unique needs. Together, we’ll explore your emotions, behaviors, and relationships, working towards meaningful growth and lasting change. If you’re ready to transform your life, reach out today for a free 15-minute consultation. Let's begin your journey to a more fulfilling future.
![Photo of Klaudia Gebert, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eae24c51-ac47-46cf-8d7c-37230553bd9e/2/320x400.png)
Klaudia believes in working collaboratively with you to help you achieve your therapeutic goals. She understands that each experience is unique, and therefore treatment must be tailored to meet individual needs. Klaudia goes beyond a band-aid treatment approach to help you understand your underlying causes, what perpetuates your current difficulties and empowers you to make lifelong sustainable changes. She has an approach that is both warm and empathically challenging to help you build motivation and accountability, while getting your needs met through the therapeutic journey.
Klaudia believes in working collaboratively with you to help you achieve your therapeutic goals. She understands that each experience is unique, and therefore treatment must be tailored to meet individual needs. Klaudia goes beyond a band-aid treatment approach to help you understand your underlying causes, what perpetuates your current difficulties and empowers you to make lifelong sustainable changes. She has an approach that is both warm and empathically challenging to help you build motivation and accountability, while getting your needs met through the therapeutic journey.
![Photo of Karen Lee Isbister - Becoming Whole, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e5bc018-6953-4234-b45c-ced22dedc979/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you a determined, smart, driven and creative adult or teenager? Do you try hard but things that used to work don’t seem to be working anymore? Are you experiencing any of the following? : – Anxiety – Childhood Trauma – Guilt – Depression – Abuse – Shame – Conflict – Lack of Direction – Unmet Needs – Addictions – Bullying – Peer Pressure – Communication Barriers – Emotional Pain
Are you a determined, smart, driven and creative adult or teenager? Do you try hard but things that used to work don’t seem to be working anymore? Are you experiencing any of the following? : – Anxiety – Childhood Trauma – Guilt – Depression – Abuse – Shame – Conflict – Lack of Direction – Unmet Needs – Addictions – Bullying – Peer Pressure – Communication Barriers – Emotional Pain
![Photo of Tracey Rovere, ACA-L2, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5bc521c1-4cba-4fd4-82bf-04a127e32c17/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tracey Rovere Psychotherapist, Marriage Counsellor and Relationship Coach addresses many challenges that come with partnerships and relationships. Areas of counselling include; disconnection of intimacy, infidelity, trust issues, difficulty in communication, conflict and working through separation if necessary. The counselling process can help to enhance the friendship and support couples to feel more connected with one another. Other concerns in relationships such as substance use, alcohol addiction, gambling addiction, trauma and attachment concerns are also explored in our practice to help you move forward.
Tracey Rovere Psychotherapist, Marriage Counsellor and Relationship Coach addresses many challenges that come with partnerships and relationships. Areas of counselling include; disconnection of intimacy, infidelity, trust issues, difficulty in communication, conflict and working through separation if necessary. The counselling process can help to enhance the friendship and support couples to feel more connected with one another. Other concerns in relationships such as substance use, alcohol addiction, gambling addiction, trauma and attachment concerns are also explored in our practice to help you move forward.
![Photo of Jacob Amna Pervaiz Montoya - Counselling Wollongong, MPsych, PACFA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b7f6db7-7165-4d9e-ac83-bb1927c1fdd5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jacob and Amna will help you...“Once you understand the four mechanisms that determine why different parts of your ‘self’ do disturbing behaviours, then you can begin to compassionately change your behaviours in a sustainable way” Child mechanism an internal override of unique expression. Adolescent mechanism an attempt to override Externally. Adult mechanism an override of the Adolescent Mechanism. Self-Distraction/Medication an attempt to override seemingly overwhelming feelings. Our counsellors get the most fulfilment and satisfaction by helping people become ’emotionally independent’.
Jacob and Amna will help you...“Once you understand the four mechanisms that determine why different parts of your ‘self’ do disturbing behaviours, then you can begin to compassionately change your behaviours in a sustainable way” Child mechanism an internal override of unique expression. Adolescent mechanism an attempt to override Externally. Adult mechanism an override of the Adolescent Mechanism. Self-Distraction/Medication an attempt to override seemingly overwhelming feelings. Our counsellors get the most fulfilment and satisfaction by helping people become ’emotionally independent’.
![Photo of Mathew Aquilina, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b256061f-b890-48eb-8551-46a131e12f3f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mathew Aquilina
Psychologist, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
I am a registered psychologist and board-approved clinical supervisor. A decade of experience in the psychology field has seen me undertake a variety of work including: child and adolescent therapy; parenting support; group facilitation; university student counselling; adult therapy; clinical supervision; and service management. I practice from an attachment-based and relational framework and am trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT); Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT); Schema Therapy; Psychodynamic therapy; the Circle of Security protocol; and the 'Becoming Us' Perinatal Mental Health Facilitator Training.
I am a registered psychologist and board-approved clinical supervisor. A decade of experience in the psychology field has seen me undertake a variety of work including: child and adolescent therapy; parenting support; group facilitation; university student counselling; adult therapy; clinical supervision; and service management. I practice from an attachment-based and relational framework and am trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT); Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT); Schema Therapy; Psychodynamic therapy; the Circle of Security protocol; and the 'Becoming Us' Perinatal Mental Health Facilitator Training.
![Photo of Daisy Seaton, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/312a6e91-f165-4a50-aeb7-5bb0c23fc3f8/3/320x400.jpeg)
Daisy Seaton
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Not accepting new clients
As a psychologist, I aim to offer a down-to-earth, authentic, practical and warm approach to therapy. I enjoy developing real and meaningful connections with clients, where we are both in the process together working collaboratively towards their therapeutic goals. I'm proud to offer a warm, inviting, cosy space - full of comfortable lounges, sunlight & greenery.
As a psychologist, I aim to offer a down-to-earth, authentic, practical and warm approach to therapy. I enjoy developing real and meaningful connections with clients, where we are both in the process together working collaboratively towards their therapeutic goals. I'm proud to offer a warm, inviting, cosy space - full of comfortable lounges, sunlight & greenery.
![Photo of Renee McDonald, PACFA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49ac0f0f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Renee McDonald
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be complex and uncertain. I can help you with your concerns. You may be feeling unfulfilled or worried about a recent loss or your relationships. I can assist you to walk along side you in your time of sadness, loss, grief, or situations that are holding you back from having a more fulfilling life. Many of my clients say they may have tried other counselling, though it hasn’t worked. I can work with you - no matter where you are at. I help you find hope in your life again.
Life can be complex and uncertain. I can help you with your concerns. You may be feeling unfulfilled or worried about a recent loss or your relationships. I can assist you to walk along side you in your time of sadness, loss, grief, or situations that are holding you back from having a more fulfilling life. Many of my clients say they may have tried other counselling, though it hasn’t worked. I can work with you - no matter where you are at. I help you find hope in your life again.
![Photo of Holly Read, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a227b856-5190-460c-9af0-d8b65d6bb6c8/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have been supporting adults & young people with their mental health challenges for over 20 years, working with diverse populations. Including, over 13 years of experience working with a range of presenting issues in the field of clinical adolescent mental health and Indigenous health. With extensive counselling and psychotherapy experience obtained in a variety of setting including, but not limited to; private practise, NSW Health Dept., Corrective Services, Education Dept., Universities, private detox, and rehabilitation services.
I have been supporting adults & young people with their mental health challenges for over 20 years, working with diverse populations. Including, over 13 years of experience working with a range of presenting issues in the field of clinical adolescent mental health and Indigenous health. With extensive counselling and psychotherapy experience obtained in a variety of setting including, but not limited to; private practise, NSW Health Dept., Corrective Services, Education Dept., Universities, private detox, and rehabilitation services.
![Photo of Nada Appleby - Hope Christian Counselling, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b3f07b8-51ce-4047-bfd0-33fa4c3fe35f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hope Christian Counselling
Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wollongong, NSW 2500 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Nada, talking about our thoughts and feelings with someone we barely know can be a scary experience. I offer a gentle, compassionate approach which takes the fear out of this process and helps you feel comfortable and safe. I follow your lead in discovering your personal story and help you to uncover the wonderful strengths that you have. You can walk with me in the beautiful outdoors or wrap yourself in a blanky in your own home via telehealth or meet in person with me. I am trained in a range of evidenced based therapies and as we work together we can explore how they can support your wellbeing.
Hi, I'm Nada, talking about our thoughts and feelings with someone we barely know can be a scary experience. I offer a gentle, compassionate approach which takes the fear out of this process and helps you feel comfortable and safe. I follow your lead in discovering your personal story and help you to uncover the wonderful strengths that you have. You can walk with me in the beautiful outdoors or wrap yourself in a blanky in your own home via telehealth or meet in person with me. I am trained in a range of evidenced based therapies and as we work together we can explore how they can support your wellbeing.
![Photo of Jennifer Fisher, MA, MAPS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/964f2914-9735-486e-b6cb-9d896aa31976/1/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy working with a range of psychological and emotional concerns. My main area of interest is helping people who are living with an eating disorder. I am passionate about timely and effective support for individuals struggling with eating and body image concerns. In addition to eating disorders, I enjoy working with people who are experiencing different types of anxiety and emotional distress, chronic pain and illness, relationship concerns, grief, loss and adjusting to life changes including parenthood.
I enjoy working with a range of psychological and emotional concerns. My main area of interest is helping people who are living with an eating disorder. I am passionate about timely and effective support for individuals struggling with eating and body image concerns. In addition to eating disorders, I enjoy working with people who are experiencing different types of anxiety and emotional distress, chronic pain and illness, relationship concerns, grief, loss and adjusting to life changes including parenthood.
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![Photo of Dr Sophie Russell, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46bd6bab-e38f-48e7-bfd2-2c57db4898db/2/320x400.png)
Dr Sophie Russell
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, I'm Sophie, I aim to offer a warm and supportive therapeutic space so we can engage in individualised psychotherapy. I am a clinically trained psychologist with 7 years of therapy experience, and a PhD in Clinical Psychology. I hope to create a welcoming therapy space, to work with whatever difficulties you are experiencing. I have a special interest in working with people experiencing anxiety and distress related to past trauma/difficult experiences. I also find psychotherapy for self/identity exploration and diverse genders and sexuality (LGBTQI+) really rewarding.
Hi, I'm Sophie, I aim to offer a warm and supportive therapeutic space so we can engage in individualised psychotherapy. I am a clinically trained psychologist with 7 years of therapy experience, and a PhD in Clinical Psychology. I hope to create a welcoming therapy space, to work with whatever difficulties you are experiencing. I have a special interest in working with people experiencing anxiety and distress related to past trauma/difficult experiences. I also find psychotherapy for self/identity exploration and diverse genders and sexuality (LGBTQI+) really rewarding.
![Photo of Mirelda Vanessa Wales - PSYCA Psychological Counselling and Assessments, PsychD, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4ff737f-1130-45b3-b7d6-5abced5c39f8/3/320x400.png)
PSYCA Psychological Counselling and Assessments
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
PSYCA clinicians work with individuals and couples to assist with mental health well-being. We also provide assessments, such as cognitive (IQ) testing, learning difficulties (dyslexia), ADHD, Autism, and ODD. We are Victoria Workcover and New South Wales SIRA accredited, and provide both in-person and telehealth counselling options.
PSYCA clinicians work with individuals and couples to assist with mental health well-being. We also provide assessments, such as cognitive (IQ) testing, learning difficulties (dyslexia), ADHD, Autism, and ODD. We are Victoria Workcover and New South Wales SIRA accredited, and provide both in-person and telehealth counselling options.
![Photo of Sophie Panozzo, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b10715e-fdd2-4185-a525-a36f0b45df46/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sophie Panozzo
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Waitlist for new clients
As a registered psychologist, I am dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey to positive mental well-being, to build resilience and to overcome difficulties. My areas of work include people presenting with anxiety, depression, ADHD, low self-esteem, grief, loss, stress, panic, phobias and social anxiety. I also help with difficulties in relationships, communication and emotional regulation. I provide comprehensive psychological assessments for ADHD.
As a registered psychologist, I am dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey to positive mental well-being, to build resilience and to overcome difficulties. My areas of work include people presenting with anxiety, depression, ADHD, low self-esteem, grief, loss, stress, panic, phobias and social anxiety. I also help with difficulties in relationships, communication and emotional regulation. I provide comprehensive psychological assessments for ADHD.
![Photo of Sam Manago, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77be7e69-b21c-42f2-871b-1767e52bfa2b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sam is a Registered Psychologist with over 16 years’ experience in clinical, workers compensation, education, and disability settings. Sam has worked with diverse populations young and old with clients from different backgrounds and abilities, to help reach their mental health or career goals. Sam has a particular interest and expertise working with adults who have perfectionism and people pleasing traits. He uses a tailored approach to counselling using a blend of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) in combination with mindfulness techniques.
Sam is a Registered Psychologist with over 16 years’ experience in clinical, workers compensation, education, and disability settings. Sam has worked with diverse populations young and old with clients from different backgrounds and abilities, to help reach their mental health or career goals. Sam has a particular interest and expertise working with adults who have perfectionism and people pleasing traits. He uses a tailored approach to counselling using a blend of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) in combination with mindfulness techniques.
![Photo of Tessa Blencowe, ACA-L2, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b80a288d-c7cf-46b9-be12-abb143899e1d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Currently taking new clients. Tessa is a warm and empathetic ACA Accredited Counsellor with experience guiding clients through a wide range of challenges, including career, relationships, identity, stress, isolation, change, self-esteem, grief and loss. Tessa is passionate about developing self-awareness and emotional resilience with everyone she works with. Her therapeutic approach is evidence-based and draws from a variety of practices including Psychodynamic Therapy, Attachment Theory and Parts Theory. Tessa is also trained in Exposure and Cognitive Behavioural Therapies, Somatic Therapy and Mindfulness.
Currently taking new clients. Tessa is a warm and empathetic ACA Accredited Counsellor with experience guiding clients through a wide range of challenges, including career, relationships, identity, stress, isolation, change, self-esteem, grief and loss. Tessa is passionate about developing self-awareness and emotional resilience with everyone she works with. Her therapeutic approach is evidence-based and draws from a variety of practices including Psychodynamic Therapy, Attachment Theory and Parts Theory. Tessa is also trained in Exposure and Cognitive Behavioural Therapies, Somatic Therapy and Mindfulness.
![Photo of Sara Oldfield, MSc, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5fc7a8e7-a5d1-40fe-85dd-7c22a1d781cd/2/320x400.png)
Sara works from a client-centred approach, tailoring treatment to suit each client’s individual needs. This is informed by evidence based practices including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Play therapy. Sara is also trained in EMDR. She places a high emphasis on creating a genuine, warm and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their uniqueness, strengths and challenges.
Sara works from a client-centred approach, tailoring treatment to suit each client’s individual needs. This is informed by evidence based practices including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Play therapy. Sara is also trained in EMDR. She places a high emphasis on creating a genuine, warm and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their uniqueness, strengths and challenges.
![Photo of Fiona Bourn, PACFA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0519e7d6-801b-49c5-9259-33bd3a63511c/1/320x400.jpeg)
We have all experienced times in our lives when we just need someone to talk to, listen to us, to give us the empathy/support that we need to explore an issue safely. Someone that can assist us with navigating life’s rollercoaster, especially during times when things can feel extremely overwhelming. Fiona’s aim at Sacred Space Counselling is to be just that person for you. Fiona provides a safe/sacred warm space so that you can explore what brings you to the counselling space.
We have all experienced times in our lives when we just need someone to talk to, listen to us, to give us the empathy/support that we need to explore an issue safely. Someone that can assist us with navigating life’s rollercoaster, especially during times when things can feel extremely overwhelming. Fiona’s aim at Sacred Space Counselling is to be just that person for you. Fiona provides a safe/sacred warm space so that you can explore what brings you to the counselling space.
![Photo of Sarah Conway, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed93dea5-1a5d-47e4-a4ab-18932c3dd40c/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have immediate availability to see children, adolescents and their families. I am also offering autism diagnostic assessments, NDIS assessments and cognitive assessments for children.
I have immediate availability to see children, adolescents and their families. I am also offering autism diagnostic assessments, NDIS assessments and cognitive assessments for children.
![Photo of Christina Quattropani, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b98e1051-dca8-4e95-b243-118345eb8618/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christina is an experienced Registered Psychologist with deep expertise in working with individuals with trauma and alcohol and other drug dependence. She is skilled in working across the lifespan, and across a range of different mental health issues. Christina is trained in multiple modalities, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Behavioural Approaches and Trauma-Informed Care, including EMDR therapy. Christina is trained in administering assessments including Autism, ADHD intelligence and academic testing. Christina is SIRA approved for WorkCover.
Christina is an experienced Registered Psychologist with deep expertise in working with individuals with trauma and alcohol and other drug dependence. She is skilled in working across the lifespan, and across a range of different mental health issues. Christina is trained in multiple modalities, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Behavioural Approaches and Trauma-Informed Care, including EMDR therapy. Christina is trained in administering assessments including Autism, ADHD intelligence and academic testing. Christina is SIRA approved for WorkCover.
See more therapy options for Wollongong
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Wollongong, NSW
100+
Average cost per session
$180
Counsellors in Wollongong, NSW who prioritize treating:
89% | Anxiety |
80% | Depression |
75% | Self Esteem |
73% | Stress |
72% | Trauma and PTSD |
68% | Relationship Issues |
66% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
72% | Medicare Rebates |
40% | NDIS |
33% | Other |
How Counsellors in Wollongong, NSW see their clients
71% | In Person and Online | |
29% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
18% | Male | |
2% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Wollongong?
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.