Counselling in Gwandalan, NSW
![Photo of Nikki Grant - Nikki Grant Life Choices, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b66750f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you have a particular life obstacle you’re trying to overcome? Sometimes, seeking help from a professional is the best way to put things into perspective. I want to help you find the tools you need to overcome life obstacles. I am available for face to face and telehealth appointments Australia wide. I work with adults and older teens to help them address mental health or emotional concerns, and children 13+ with anxiety. I work with people with anxiety and depression, as well as addictions, eating disorders and head injuries. I also offer supervision services to Psychologists and Mental Health Workers.
Do you have a particular life obstacle you’re trying to overcome? Sometimes, seeking help from a professional is the best way to put things into perspective. I want to help you find the tools you need to overcome life obstacles. I am available for face to face and telehealth appointments Australia wide. I work with adults and older teens to help them address mental health or emotional concerns, and children 13+ with anxiety. I work with people with anxiety and depression, as well as addictions, eating disorders and head injuries. I also offer supervision services to Psychologists and Mental Health Workers.
![Photo of Madeleine Berryman, PsychD, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3177b0d6-a746-4455-9703-0d14b508131e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Over the years I have worked hard to grow skills to be able to work with individuals with a variety of presentations. I work with anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders and trauma and much more. It is important that the client and I work collaboratively to meet a clients needs and goals and that we have an open, honest relationship together. It is important for client's to know that they are the master in themselves and that I as a therapist am there to support them to make their own changes to reach their full potential.
Over the years I have worked hard to grow skills to be able to work with individuals with a variety of presentations. I work with anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders and trauma and much more. It is important that the client and I work collaboratively to meet a clients needs and goals and that we have an open, honest relationship together. It is important for client's to know that they are the master in themselves and that I as a therapist am there to support them to make their own changes to reach their full potential.
![Photo of Sarah Cox, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a75d256-53e1-4f1e-b339-0c2e7c946761/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe everyone has the potential for growth and change given the right support. I place a strong emphasis on creating a respectful and safe space to explore your presenting concerns and will work with you towards creating meaningful change. I draw on techniques from a range of evidence-based practices, seeing therapy as an opportunity to utilise and build upon each client’s existing skills and strengths. Seeing a Clinical Psychologist, allows you to access a Medicare rebate of $141.85 with a Mental Health Care Plan from you GP (gap $103.15). Feel free to phone or email me with any questions you may have.
I believe everyone has the potential for growth and change given the right support. I place a strong emphasis on creating a respectful and safe space to explore your presenting concerns and will work with you towards creating meaningful change. I draw on techniques from a range of evidence-based practices, seeing therapy as an opportunity to utilise and build upon each client’s existing skills and strengths. Seeing a Clinical Psychologist, allows you to access a Medicare rebate of $141.85 with a Mental Health Care Plan from you GP (gap $103.15). Feel free to phone or email me with any questions you may have.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Leah O'Rourke, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba48d575-7ca3-4d19-bb26-46d22c7723a5/2/320x400.jpeg)
What would you do without that sadness? Will we find out? Sadness has many faces: anxious, depressed, traumatised, angry. Well ten years of formal training (Clinical Psychologist) tells you I’m patient, sincere, and ready to hold it all gently while we detangle it together. The gift is seeing your situation from higher ground. You move past the tricky mind, onto peace and flow. BYO anguish & confusion, take away stillness. As Van Morrison almost said: ‘No Guru, Just Method’. Clin. Psychs use gold-standard methods to help you see yourself afresh, identify where you're stuck, and truly connect you with here-now capacity for change.
What would you do without that sadness? Will we find out? Sadness has many faces: anxious, depressed, traumatised, angry. Well ten years of formal training (Clinical Psychologist) tells you I’m patient, sincere, and ready to hold it all gently while we detangle it together. The gift is seeing your situation from higher ground. You move past the tricky mind, onto peace and flow. BYO anguish & confusion, take away stillness. As Van Morrison almost said: ‘No Guru, Just Method’. Clin. Psychs use gold-standard methods to help you see yourself afresh, identify where you're stuck, and truly connect you with here-now capacity for change.
![Photo of Helen Brereton, MA, ACA-L2, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4389522-76d2-40fe-a638-c9573fe2ab2c/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate helping people to authentically express themselves and to create the relationships they want. I will support you to heal and transform your relationship with yourself and the people closest to you. I work with individuals and couples in-person and online individual sessions. I am the co-founder of 'The Courageous Man' & I also specialise in working with men who struggle in their relationships. Visit www.helenbrereton.com.au for more information and to book a session with me.
I am passionate helping people to authentically express themselves and to create the relationships they want. I will support you to heal and transform your relationship with yourself and the people closest to you. I work with individuals and couples in-person and online individual sessions. I am the co-founder of 'The Courageous Man' & I also specialise in working with men who struggle in their relationships. Visit www.helenbrereton.com.au for more information and to book a session with me.
![Photo of Natalie Close, PhD, Assoc MAPS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5dff3c91-2aa0-44e5-a60d-e1510c784892/1/320x400.png)
Dr Natalie Close is a registered psychologist with postgraduate training including a doctorate and Master of Clinical Psychology. She has held positions in research and university education and completed a PhD in cognitive psychology. Natalie has been working clinically in private practice for over 10 years, where she provides comprehensive psychological assessments and evidence-based therapies. Natalie maintains a professional and ethical approach including practical tools, emotional support, psychological assessment, and mental health treatment backed by science. She is currently a board-approved supervisor in psychology.
Dr Natalie Close is a registered psychologist with postgraduate training including a doctorate and Master of Clinical Psychology. She has held positions in research and university education and completed a PhD in cognitive psychology. Natalie has been working clinically in private practice for over 10 years, where she provides comprehensive psychological assessments and evidence-based therapies. Natalie maintains a professional and ethical approach including practical tools, emotional support, psychological assessment, and mental health treatment backed by science. She is currently a board-approved supervisor in psychology.
![Photo of Shelley Puru - Shelley Puru - Harmony Well-being Services, ACA-L2, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc7a1b6c-c350-49df-b550-e230899de7eb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Specialising in children, youth and individuals who are stressed, anxious and generally overwhelmed with life’s curve balls. Do you have children with behaviours that are challenging, diagnosis’ of ADHD, Autism or similar? Do you have teens that feel like no one understands them? Do you want to create a sense of contentment in your life? To gain some connection within your family, to feel a greater sense of self-worth and self-acceptance? To understand and not vilify the many different parts of who you are? Congratulations on taking the first and often most difficult step in your well-being journey!
Specialising in children, youth and individuals who are stressed, anxious and generally overwhelmed with life’s curve balls. Do you have children with behaviours that are challenging, diagnosis’ of ADHD, Autism or similar? Do you have teens that feel like no one understands them? Do you want to create a sense of contentment in your life? To gain some connection within your family, to feel a greater sense of self-worth and self-acceptance? To understand and not vilify the many different parts of who you are? Congratulations on taking the first and often most difficult step in your well-being journey!
![Photo of Sally Hainey - Soulful Psychotherapy , MA, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff3362ff-87f8-4f5b-9277-b7e098616468/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a counsellor and psychotherapist, my vision is to create an alternative, holistic approach to healing by incorporating a combination of evidence-based talk therapy with practice-based interventions - the cornerstone for gold standard treatment for trauma and other mental health issues. As we adapt to the demands of a competitive society, the escalating high costs of living, and increased societal division through gender violence, our relationships with self and others become vulnerable. We have less time available to cultivate healthy relationships for ourselves and others which prevents us from living a full and happy life.
As a counsellor and psychotherapist, my vision is to create an alternative, holistic approach to healing by incorporating a combination of evidence-based talk therapy with practice-based interventions - the cornerstone for gold standard treatment for trauma and other mental health issues. As we adapt to the demands of a competitive society, the escalating high costs of living, and increased societal division through gender violence, our relationships with self and others become vulnerable. We have less time available to cultivate healthy relationships for ourselves and others which prevents us from living a full and happy life.
![Photo of Carly Tredway, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a697714-c62a-4b4d-a88d-84459f5cb06d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carly Tredway
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Wyong, NSW 2259
Waitlist for new clients
Here at Sunnybank, we specialise in helping people who are experiencing mental health difficulties through understanding complex thoughts, feelings and situations. Our down-to-earth approach, coupled with the beautiful environment here at Sunnybank opens us to the possibility of change. We can sit outside by the fire, on a picnic blanket, inside on the lounge or walk the property- it's experiential, meaning that we help you to experience the change, the healing, the shift. We do it alongside you, we walk together. Our client-led focus can help you to open up and through honesty and sharing your story; you are not alone.
Here at Sunnybank, we specialise in helping people who are experiencing mental health difficulties through understanding complex thoughts, feelings and situations. Our down-to-earth approach, coupled with the beautiful environment here at Sunnybank opens us to the possibility of change. We can sit outside by the fire, on a picnic blanket, inside on the lounge or walk the property- it's experiential, meaning that we help you to experience the change, the healing, the shift. We do it alongside you, we walk together. Our client-led focus can help you to open up and through honesty and sharing your story; you are not alone.
![Photo of Nick Bowditch, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ecb19dd-d700-4923-9b2e-05463c0a3a88/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialise in working with people who are trying to escape addiction or who are in early recovery, and people who have unresolved childhood trauma and finally want to get some relief and start their healing. Working with people to find their self-worth and build (or rebuild) their self-esteem is some of the most satisfying work I do. I work out of my Terrigal Clinic, right on the beach at Terrigal, or my Gosford Clinic, right in the CBD of Gosford.
I specialise in working with people who are trying to escape addiction or who are in early recovery, and people who have unresolved childhood trauma and finally want to get some relief and start their healing. Working with people to find their self-worth and build (or rebuild) their self-esteem is some of the most satisfying work I do. I work out of my Terrigal Clinic, right on the beach at Terrigal, or my Gosford Clinic, right in the CBD of Gosford.
![Photo of Ashleigh Chapman, ACA-L2, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a37d29e-8308-4a6b-ae9d-c2bc4c0a324e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling in your relationship with others? Whether that be an intimate partner, parent or your own child? Ashleigh holds space for you and your relationship, to enable you to have a different experience of one another, to finally get out of the same cycle that no longer serves you.
Are you struggling in your relationship with others? Whether that be an intimate partner, parent or your own child? Ashleigh holds space for you and your relationship, to enable you to have a different experience of one another, to finally get out of the same cycle that no longer serves you.
![Photo of Christina Elizabeth Taylor, ACA-L4, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2cf4aac-879d-4db0-b325-597e3fec5c44/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work primarily with adults who experienced childhood trauma. If you have suffered from emotional neglect, physical or sexual abuse or any other trauma I can help with the emotional or psychological impact; the possible impairment of self- esteem/self worth, the dysfunctional relationships you may have at times and the physical health consequences of childhood trauma. I help you to identify how you experienced these as a child and what kind of feelings arise as you now look at the experiences through an adult lens. We keep one foot in the present whilst accessing the trauma experienced and help you move to resilience and recovery
I work primarily with adults who experienced childhood trauma. If you have suffered from emotional neglect, physical or sexual abuse or any other trauma I can help with the emotional or psychological impact; the possible impairment of self- esteem/self worth, the dysfunctional relationships you may have at times and the physical health consequences of childhood trauma. I help you to identify how you experienced these as a child and what kind of feelings arise as you now look at the experiences through an adult lens. We keep one foot in the present whilst accessing the trauma experienced and help you move to resilience and recovery
![Photo of Carol-Anne Howlett, MA, ACA-L4, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bbd61264-d4ca-4552-bea8-ce462accd70a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Carol-Anne is a highly experienced and compassionate therapist with a diverse background in psychotherapy, Counselling, Human Resources, and Training. She offers a holistic approach to mental health and relationship counselling empowering clients to better navigate life's challenges effectively.
Carol-Anne is a highly experienced and compassionate therapist with a diverse background in psychotherapy, Counselling, Human Resources, and Training. She offers a holistic approach to mental health and relationship counselling empowering clients to better navigate life's challenges effectively.
![Photo of Greta Hundley, MA, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73aea89c-eeab-4dad-9bc4-39973a0a75ee/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello and thanks for checking my profile. I'm a Mental Health Social Worker with decades of experience working with people from many different backgrounds and presentations. Maybe you've spent years feeling misunderstood and judged by others. Maybe you've been going to therapy and somehow no one seems to "get" what you're going through now and in the past. You do your best to face the problems that overwhelm you every day but need support to find new ways of navigating all the challenges. As leading trauma therapist Gabor Mate has said "It all starts with waking up to what our bodies and minds are suppressing".
Hello and thanks for checking my profile. I'm a Mental Health Social Worker with decades of experience working with people from many different backgrounds and presentations. Maybe you've spent years feeling misunderstood and judged by others. Maybe you've been going to therapy and somehow no one seems to "get" what you're going through now and in the past. You do your best to face the problems that overwhelm you every day but need support to find new ways of navigating all the challenges. As leading trauma therapist Gabor Mate has said "It all starts with waking up to what our bodies and minds are suppressing".
![Photo of Yelka Saric, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2016cb0-dc83-456a-9402-bb46629b2139/1/320x400.jpeg)
Yelka Saric
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tuggerah, NSW 2259 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Hello and welcome! My name is Yelka, I am a registered psychologist and lead practitioner at Eccentric Minds - Psychology. Across my career, I have worked in public and private hospitals, acute outpatient clinics, private practice, EAP and refugee trauma services. I have experience working therapeutically with clients from many different backgrounds, mental health concerns and life experiences in a client-centered way. At the moment, I am able to offer 1:1 therapy to motivated adults and adolescents struggling with areas/concerns listed in my profile.
Hello and welcome! My name is Yelka, I am a registered psychologist and lead practitioner at Eccentric Minds - Psychology. Across my career, I have worked in public and private hospitals, acute outpatient clinics, private practice, EAP and refugee trauma services. I have experience working therapeutically with clients from many different backgrounds, mental health concerns and life experiences in a client-centered way. At the moment, I am able to offer 1:1 therapy to motivated adults and adolescents struggling with areas/concerns listed in my profile.
![Photo of Pamela McDonald, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d649c3fe-da6f-41fe-b5f2-e01f33fcbb55/3/320x400.jpeg)
Through working with her clients, Pamela understands that for some, whilst life can be extremely painful to live, the courage within themselves gives them the hope to create opportunities for themselves to build a meaningful life. She understands that while the pain may not completely go away, that it can become tolerable and no longer prevent clients from being able to pursue their goals. She understands that all of us need a space to go to be able to work on things without being judged. She believes that her clients do know themselves better, and as such meaningful work in sessions needs to be collaborative.
Through working with her clients, Pamela understands that for some, whilst life can be extremely painful to live, the courage within themselves gives them the hope to create opportunities for themselves to build a meaningful life. She understands that while the pain may not completely go away, that it can become tolerable and no longer prevent clients from being able to pursue their goals. She understands that all of us need a space to go to be able to work on things without being judged. She believes that her clients do know themselves better, and as such meaningful work in sessions needs to be collaborative.
![Photo of Liz Crocombe, MC, PACFA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2966c39f-5417-4f84-a1a3-333f6e183194/1/320x400.jpeg)
You are looking for solutions to situations that leave you continually frustrated and wondering how to fix things. You might have a recurring theme of something that isn't working for you, or life is chaotic; or even that you are on a treadmill you desperately want to get off! Sometimes it may seem as though the relationships you want are completely out of your reach. Counselling can help you grow and change when you feel heard, understood and by understanding your own self.
You are looking for solutions to situations that leave you continually frustrated and wondering how to fix things. You might have a recurring theme of something that isn't working for you, or life is chaotic; or even that you are on a treadmill you desperately want to get off! Sometimes it may seem as though the relationships you want are completely out of your reach. Counselling can help you grow and change when you feel heard, understood and by understanding your own self.
![Photo of Sharon Selby, ACA-L2, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be729be3-5849-4181-8b02-d10137ba5c0a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Inner Peace Counselling Services provides a service to anyone who may be needing a little extra support facing issues such as domestic violence, mental health, grief & loss. I offer a mature & compassionate approach and am dedicated to improving the well-being and daily outcomes of those impacted by such distressing issues. Inner Peace Counselling Services is an 'NDIS' approved provider. All services are available in clinic face to face, via zoom or phone. 'NDIS' services can also be provided at nursing homes and in care homes via appointment only.
Inner Peace Counselling Services provides a service to anyone who may be needing a little extra support facing issues such as domestic violence, mental health, grief & loss. I offer a mature & compassionate approach and am dedicated to improving the well-being and daily outcomes of those impacted by such distressing issues. Inner Peace Counselling Services is an 'NDIS' approved provider. All services are available in clinic face to face, via zoom or phone. 'NDIS' services can also be provided at nursing homes and in care homes via appointment only.
![Photo of Krist Thomson, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e725f635-8252-48fd-9865-1fc55a44d208/1/320x400.jpeg)
I feel both honoured and privileged to hear people’s stories and walk alongside them in challenging times. I believe that to be seen, heard and acknowledged are basic human needs required for connection and transcend differences in gender, culture, life experience, status and beliefs. I have a background in childhood trauma, attachment, parenting, family relationships, adult crisis intervention, acute mental health hospital care and group therapy. I currently work adults in private practice treating a wide range of mental health challenges, and I specialise in anxiety, depression and trauma.
I feel both honoured and privileged to hear people’s stories and walk alongside them in challenging times. I believe that to be seen, heard and acknowledged are basic human needs required for connection and transcend differences in gender, culture, life experience, status and beliefs. I have a background in childhood trauma, attachment, parenting, family relationships, adult crisis intervention, acute mental health hospital care and group therapy. I currently work adults in private practice treating a wide range of mental health challenges, and I specialise in anxiety, depression and trauma.
![Photo of Jackie Sharp - Counselling at Shine, ACA-L2, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fafdf02-832f-4db0-b6a6-85b8686351ba/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi , I am a registered counsellor located near Charlestown Lake Macquarie I offer Individual and Couples Counselling , assistance with depression ,anxiety , I am a skilled professional counsellor , supporting individuals , children , couples and families and I am a registered member with the Australian Counselling Association.
Hi , I am a registered counsellor located near Charlestown Lake Macquarie I offer Individual and Couples Counselling , assistance with depression ,anxiety , I am a skilled professional counsellor , supporting individuals , children , couples and families and I am a registered member with the Australian Counselling Association.
See more therapy options for Gwandalan
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Gwandalan, NSW
< 10
Counsellors in Gwandalan, NSW who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Anger Management |
100% | Coping Skills |
100% | Self Esteem |
67% | Addiction |
Average years in practice
18 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Medicare Rebates |
50% | Any/Out-of-network Insurance |
50% | NDIS |
How Counsellors in Gwandalan, NSW see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Gwandalan?
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.