Counselling in Brighton East, VIC
![Photo of Mary Ann Oakley - Brighton East Counselling, ACA-L1, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d57cfdc-4cda-4e9e-b562-2531d8f14d0a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Ann Oakley is the founder of Brighton East Counselling and an experienced psychotherapist. She employs a non-judgemental and empathetic approach to address a wide range of issues in adults of all ages. Her expertise includes treating anxiety, depression, stress, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, adjustment challenges, life transitions, workplace problems, sleep issues, grief, addictions, and managing difficult emotions. Mary Ann utilizes evidence-based treatments and tailors therapy to meet each client's unique needs including CBT and Acceptance and Commitment therapy.
Mary Ann Oakley is the founder of Brighton East Counselling and an experienced psychotherapist. She employs a non-judgemental and empathetic approach to address a wide range of issues in adults of all ages. Her expertise includes treating anxiety, depression, stress, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, adjustment challenges, life transitions, workplace problems, sleep issues, grief, addictions, and managing difficult emotions. Mary Ann utilizes evidence-based treatments and tailors therapy to meet each client's unique needs including CBT and Acceptance and Commitment therapy.
![Photo of David P Field, MPsych, FAPS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7fe3b33e-4150-4ba0-ba86-cd280cfc62bb/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Clinical and Health Psychologist and have worked as a psychologist for the past 30 years. I have an interest in strengths based and mindfulness-based therapies, chronic pain and trauma therapy. Provided in an environment that is genuine, supportive and safe for people to talk about things that are important to them in relation to the life changes they aim to make. Counselling is a process of collaboration and working together to achieve the desired outcomes.
I am a Clinical and Health Psychologist and have worked as a psychologist for the past 30 years. I have an interest in strengths based and mindfulness-based therapies, chronic pain and trauma therapy. Provided in an environment that is genuine, supportive and safe for people to talk about things that are important to them in relation to the life changes they aim to make. Counselling is a process of collaboration and working together to achieve the desired outcomes.
![Photo of Scott McDonald, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f1adb04-1e19-4e3e-a25e-bc5e6f161a7d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Scott has a client-centred, psychodynamic approach that uncovers the developmental roots of thoughts, feelings, and behaviour. Scott aims to help clients to understand themselves and their relationships at a deeper level. Scott's practice is an open and non-judgemental space where clients can freely explore their anxieties, interpersonal relationships, attachment issues, obsessive thought processes, intrusive thoughts, feelings of panic, feelings of guilt etc. Scott's approach views these issues through an existential lens, exploring profound concerns such as the meaning of life, freedom of choice, and feelings of isolation.
Scott has a client-centred, psychodynamic approach that uncovers the developmental roots of thoughts, feelings, and behaviour. Scott aims to help clients to understand themselves and their relationships at a deeper level. Scott's practice is an open and non-judgemental space where clients can freely explore their anxieties, interpersonal relationships, attachment issues, obsessive thought processes, intrusive thoughts, feelings of panic, feelings of guilt etc. Scott's approach views these issues through an existential lens, exploring profound concerns such as the meaning of life, freedom of choice, and feelings of isolation.
![Photo of Kiki Havos - Nectar Art Therapy, AThR, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee0ecb55-5c5f-4982-8b45-37b5b8ec8911/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I’m Kiki (she/her), a Master’s qualified Art Therapist offering Community Art Therapy for children, teenagers, and adults. I provide face-to-face, online, and nature-based sessions using evidence-based, trauma-informed techniques for private and NDIS clients. My lived experience of neurodiversity helps me create neuro-affirming spaces for healing and growth. I view Community Art Therapy as a means to enhance emotional resilience and build meaningful connections through connections to storytelling and nature.
Hi, I’m Kiki (she/her), a Master’s qualified Art Therapist offering Community Art Therapy for children, teenagers, and adults. I provide face-to-face, online, and nature-based sessions using evidence-based, trauma-informed techniques for private and NDIS clients. My lived experience of neurodiversity helps me create neuro-affirming spaces for healing and growth. I view Community Art Therapy as a means to enhance emotional resilience and build meaningful connections through connections to storytelling and nature.
![Photo of Blanca Ramos, ACA-L4, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25d285e8-d065-4b21-9cdf-7b4c9414380b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Blanca offers gentle and caring support combined with a belief in our inherent ability to heal. As an integrative psychotherapist, she interweaves psychology with trauma-informed practices, somatic psychotherapy and mindfulness providing a holistic approach that supports alignment of mind, body, and spirit in therapeutic healing.
Blanca offers gentle and caring support combined with a belief in our inherent ability to heal. As an integrative psychotherapist, she interweaves psychology with trauma-informed practices, somatic psychotherapy and mindfulness providing a holistic approach that supports alignment of mind, body, and spirit in therapeutic healing.
![Photo of Vaishle Venkipally, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2bdeea55-9860-4da8-875f-879ddabca566/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a general psychologist with a passion for helping people live happier and healthier lives. I believe that everyone has the potential to thrive with the right support, and I have dedicated my career to helping individuals overcome mental health challenges and improve their overall well-being. I have been incredibly privileged to work with a diverse range of individuals from all walks of life.
I am a general psychologist with a passion for helping people live happier and healthier lives. I believe that everyone has the potential to thrive with the right support, and I have dedicated my career to helping individuals overcome mental health challenges and improve their overall well-being. I have been incredibly privileged to work with a diverse range of individuals from all walks of life.
![Photo of Natalie Anker Cohen, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dcb36ffa-c794-4bb5-afc1-bc2420dae707/1/320x400.jpeg)
At Anchored Psychology we take a keen interest in connecting with clients (16 years and over) and undertaking a collaborative process of discovery towards improved wellbeing. We aim to conduct our interactions and sessions with kindness and compassion, respect, honesty and complete transparency, within a professional, safe and confidential service. We are passionate about helping individuals to develop more awareness and competence, thereby empowering them with more effective responses to life challenges.
At Anchored Psychology we take a keen interest in connecting with clients (16 years and over) and undertaking a collaborative process of discovery towards improved wellbeing. We aim to conduct our interactions and sessions with kindness and compassion, respect, honesty and complete transparency, within a professional, safe and confidential service. We are passionate about helping individuals to develop more awareness and competence, thereby empowering them with more effective responses to life challenges.
![Photo of Jackson Stieven-Taylor, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1f2a5ee-d9d7-4f02-88ed-61bfd351d581/1/320x400.png)
Jackson Stieven-Taylor
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Brighton East, VIC 3187 (Online Only)
Jackson is a Clinical Psychologist committed to supporting individuals dealing with various mental health challenges, as well as problems in work, life and relationships. Jackson works with clients experiencing a wide variety of issues including work stress, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, complex trauma, challenges with parenting and family dynamics, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and eating disorders. Jackson has a strong interest in self-actualisation and helping his clients to reach their fullest potential, both personally and professionally. Visit jspsychologybrighton.com for more information.
Jackson is a Clinical Psychologist committed to supporting individuals dealing with various mental health challenges, as well as problems in work, life and relationships. Jackson works with clients experiencing a wide variety of issues including work stress, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, complex trauma, challenges with parenting and family dynamics, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and eating disorders. Jackson has a strong interest in self-actualisation and helping his clients to reach their fullest potential, both personally and professionally. Visit jspsychologybrighton.com for more information.
![Photo of Melanie Strang, MBBS, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba00933d-6900-4912-91dc-51bf5088fe28/1/320x400.png)
Hi there ! Thanks for clicking on my profile. I have over 15 years of practitioner experience, initially as a doctor working in mental health, then as a counsellor and presently, a psychologist.
Hi there ! Thanks for clicking on my profile. I have over 15 years of practitioner experience, initially as a doctor working in mental health, then as a counsellor and presently, a psychologist.
![Photo of Kate Barber, ACA-L1, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a0be00f-c43a-4330-9a56-fa298b80604c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I'm Kate and I am the founder of Bloom Counselling. I specialise in providing support around anxiety, loss, grief and bereavement. I have a special interest in providing support for anyone affected by cancer or a life limiting illness (such as,MND). With my experience as a Counsellor ,and 20 plus years of being a nurse, I bring experience, empathy and understanding to help you manage this very uncertain time. From the shock of a diagnosis, managing treatment, being a carer, survivorship, end of life care, decision making and everything in between, I have an understanding of what you may be going through and can support you.
Hi, I'm Kate and I am the founder of Bloom Counselling. I specialise in providing support around anxiety, loss, grief and bereavement. I have a special interest in providing support for anyone affected by cancer or a life limiting illness (such as,MND). With my experience as a Counsellor ,and 20 plus years of being a nurse, I bring experience, empathy and understanding to help you manage this very uncertain time. From the shock of a diagnosis, managing treatment, being a carer, survivorship, end of life care, decision making and everything in between, I have an understanding of what you may be going through and can support you.
![Photo of Kate Mellody, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d60574eb-0982-4ba5-ac69-7284148506e2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Caring Cove Psychology with Kate Mellody: For referral information, please visit caringcove.com.au. Kate has gained experience in diverse clinical settings across Victoria, including public healthcare (i.e., hospitals and outpatient programs), private practice, and not-for-profit organisations. Kate’s experience has allowed her to support individuals with a range of difficulties and mental health challenges. Kate is particularly passionate about working with people affected by eating disorders, disordered eating, body image concerns and anxiety.
Caring Cove Psychology with Kate Mellody: For referral information, please visit caringcove.com.au. Kate has gained experience in diverse clinical settings across Victoria, including public healthcare (i.e., hospitals and outpatient programs), private practice, and not-for-profit organisations. Kate’s experience has allowed her to support individuals with a range of difficulties and mental health challenges. Kate is particularly passionate about working with people affected by eating disorders, disordered eating, body image concerns and anxiety.
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![Photo of Joanna ('jo') Skewes, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ceb481aa-cad5-43f4-bd93-3f9d1e3e2915/1/320x400.png)
Pear Tree Therapies is the solo private practice of Joanna (‘Jo’) Skewes, a psychologist. I tailor my approach, pace and the goals of therapy according to the needs and preferences of each person I see. This includes the concerns clients wish to address at this time, whether that be improvement in immediate symptoms or problems, and/or working on underlying issues or life experiences whose impact is interfering with mental health and wellbeing in the present.
Pear Tree Therapies is the solo private practice of Joanna (‘Jo’) Skewes, a psychologist. I tailor my approach, pace and the goals of therapy according to the needs and preferences of each person I see. This includes the concerns clients wish to address at this time, whether that be improvement in immediate symptoms or problems, and/or working on underlying issues or life experiences whose impact is interfering with mental health and wellbeing in the present.
![Photo of Dr Alex Kelemen, PsychD, AMHSW, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2eae9dc-33ee-4daa-9668-14254b0d9f88/2/320x400.jpeg)
I truly believe that the essence of emotional wellbeing lies in the freedom to be yourself. This is why I advocate for living a life in which you are fully present. My approach is open-minded and supportive, but also level-headed, linking therapy and consulting. This space is designed for you to find the right therapist to explore the facets of your life and navigate through experiences with - a trustful companion, giving you honest feedback when needed. If you are searching for the happy medium between change and acceptance, or a deeper sense of meaning and self-actualization, then book a session, take the leap to come into being.
I truly believe that the essence of emotional wellbeing lies in the freedom to be yourself. This is why I advocate for living a life in which you are fully present. My approach is open-minded and supportive, but also level-headed, linking therapy and consulting. This space is designed for you to find the right therapist to explore the facets of your life and navigate through experiences with - a trustful companion, giving you honest feedback when needed. If you are searching for the happy medium between change and acceptance, or a deeper sense of meaning and self-actualization, then book a session, take the leap to come into being.
![Photo of Rebecca Mariani, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f14f93ed-4cad-4c90-9024-d37a1f5d1ead/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca is a Clinical Psychologist with extensive experience working in multiple public mental health services and private clinics to support vulnerable young people and their families presenting with complex social, emotional and behavioural difficulties. Rebecca was recently working as a Senior Psychologist at Alfred Health Child and Youth Mental Health Service before opening up her own independent practice in East Brighton. Rebecca provides therapy to children, young people and adults as well as provides clinical supervision to Psychologists.
Rebecca is a Clinical Psychologist with extensive experience working in multiple public mental health services and private clinics to support vulnerable young people and their families presenting with complex social, emotional and behavioural difficulties. Rebecca was recently working as a Senior Psychologist at Alfred Health Child and Youth Mental Health Service before opening up her own independent practice in East Brighton. Rebecca provides therapy to children, young people and adults as well as provides clinical supervision to Psychologists.
![Photo of Poli Z - SHYNE Wellness - Poli, ACA-L2, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5670cdc1-efa3-4056-a68e-cf35b5b5637f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Poli is a multi-talented and committed Counsellor and Life Coach who is sincerely passionate about supporting her clients through their issues. Poli is a member of the Australian Counselling Association and International Coaching Federation and has assisted clients worldwide. She specialises in working with adolescents, couples, adults and families. Poli provides practical support that a client can use immediately to help them move forward in life.
Poli is a multi-talented and committed Counsellor and Life Coach who is sincerely passionate about supporting her clients through their issues. Poli is a member of the Australian Counselling Association and International Coaching Federation and has assisted clients worldwide. She specialises in working with adolescents, couples, adults and families. Poli provides practical support that a client can use immediately to help them move forward in life.
![Photo of Esin Toprak Newspace Psychology, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0687cf07-95a5-46f4-a16c-380502fc7d9c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Esin Toprak Newspace Psychology
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Brighton East, VIC 3187
Esin is a registered psychologist with over 14 years of experience working with adults in Australia and England. She has worked in various clinical settings, including primary care psychology within the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), domestic violence services, services for adult survivors of childhood trauma, and rehabilitation services, catering to individuals from all walks of life. Esin earned her Master's Degree in Applied Psychology (Clinical Psychology) from Victoria University.
Esin is a registered psychologist with over 14 years of experience working with adults in Australia and England. She has worked in various clinical settings, including primary care psychology within the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), domestic violence services, services for adult survivors of childhood trauma, and rehabilitation services, catering to individuals from all walks of life. Esin earned her Master's Degree in Applied Psychology (Clinical Psychology) from Victoria University.
![Photo of Kat O'Mara, MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e19b594-9020-4b64-ae17-caadd588d7e5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the challenges life has thrown your way? Struggling to navigate through a difficult situation? I'm here to lend a helping hand. As a registered counselor, I can provide the support you need to overcome these tough times. Together, we can create a safe space for you to explore your emotions and work towards healing at your own pace. My main focus is on assisting women who are dealing with depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem resulting from unhealthy relationships or sexual assault. Throughout the years, I have helped numerous women heal and move forward from the pain of toxic relationships.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the challenges life has thrown your way? Struggling to navigate through a difficult situation? I'm here to lend a helping hand. As a registered counselor, I can provide the support you need to overcome these tough times. Together, we can create a safe space for you to explore your emotions and work towards healing at your own pace. My main focus is on assisting women who are dealing with depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem resulting from unhealthy relationships or sexual assault. Throughout the years, I have helped numerous women heal and move forward from the pain of toxic relationships.
![Photo of Corinne Mescher, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/313cf335-4483-4b94-974e-36ff24dd9da3/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychologist with 14 years experience, and I am interested in working therapeutically with adolescents from the age of 12 years up to adults. I have extensive experience in working with clients from all walks of life and presenting with a wide range of challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, fears and phobias, school refusal and autism/ADHD. In addition to providing therapy, I can assess for ADHD, intellectual disability, specific learning disorders (dyslexia, dyscalculia and dysgraphia) using the the WPPSI, WISC, WIAT for diagnostic purposes to provide learning interventions and school based support.
I am a psychologist with 14 years experience, and I am interested in working therapeutically with adolescents from the age of 12 years up to adults. I have extensive experience in working with clients from all walks of life and presenting with a wide range of challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, fears and phobias, school refusal and autism/ADHD. In addition to providing therapy, I can assess for ADHD, intellectual disability, specific learning disorders (dyslexia, dyscalculia and dysgraphia) using the the WPPSI, WISC, WIAT for diagnostic purposes to provide learning interventions and school based support.
![Photo of Julie Murphy, AMHSW, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37c3d98d-4791-47b8-8c6e-05b8cc377175/3/320x400.jpeg)
The counselling services enable clients to gain insight into their thoughts, feelings and behaviours via approaches which include talking, reflecting, and mindfulness. I build a collaborative working relationship with clients, sensitively tailoring the support to meet specific needs. Creating a ‘therapeutic alliance’ is where clients feel safe and supported to explore difficult situations, and understand emotions, reactions and responses. The therapeutic alliance provides opportunities to talk through, find resolution and work towards making the desired changes to improve wellbeing while facilitating personal growth and development.
The counselling services enable clients to gain insight into their thoughts, feelings and behaviours via approaches which include talking, reflecting, and mindfulness. I build a collaborative working relationship with clients, sensitively tailoring the support to meet specific needs. Creating a ‘therapeutic alliance’ is where clients feel safe and supported to explore difficult situations, and understand emotions, reactions and responses. The therapeutic alliance provides opportunities to talk through, find resolution and work towards making the desired changes to improve wellbeing while facilitating personal growth and development.
![Photo of Carlye Weiner, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ecd5481-7aff-4441-9c3b-ff7d1cd5b1c4/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a clinical psychologist who seeks to understand exactly what's going on for you and why, and how we can work together to achieve the life you want to live. I believe in treating the whole person - not just symptoms or a diagnosis in isolation. I have an interest in how the brain and body operate together during emotional states. This means my approach includes 'not just talking', and will include education and skill-building for true understanding and meaningful change.
I am a clinical psychologist who seeks to understand exactly what's going on for you and why, and how we can work together to achieve the life you want to live. I believe in treating the whole person - not just symptoms or a diagnosis in isolation. I have an interest in how the brain and body operate together during emotional states. This means my approach includes 'not just talking', and will include education and skill-building for true understanding and meaningful change.
See more therapy options for Brighton East
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Brighton East, VIC
30+
Average cost per session
$195
Counsellors in Brighton East, VIC who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
91% | Depression |
84% | Self Esteem |
81% | Stress |
78% | Relationship Issues |
69% | Coping Skills |
63% | Life Transitions |
Average years in practice
15 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
63% | Medicare Rebates |
50% | Bupa |
50% | Medibank Private |
How Counsellors in Brighton East, VIC see their clients
97% | In Person and Online | |
3% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
79% | Female | |
21% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Brighton East?
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.