Counselling in Petersham, NSW
![Photo of Jane Rabie- Play Therapist, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb962fcf-c938-4073-b731-f461eb660b36/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jane Rabie- Play Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Petersham, NSW 2049
Often children don’t have words to describe their experiences and feelings and instead reveal them through behaviours which can be misunderstood. They may get into trouble, be labelled, or disconnect. I work with children and families just like this. As a carer, reaching out for support can be the hardest step. I work closely with you and your child through Play Therapy which is relationship based therapy for children aged 3-12 years. Play is a child’s natural way of communicating and Play Therapy creates the environment where the therapist enters into a child’s world and understands the experience from their perspective.
Often children don’t have words to describe their experiences and feelings and instead reveal them through behaviours which can be misunderstood. They may get into trouble, be labelled, or disconnect. I work with children and families just like this. As a carer, reaching out for support can be the hardest step. I work closely with you and your child through Play Therapy which is relationship based therapy for children aged 3-12 years. Play is a child’s natural way of communicating and Play Therapy creates the environment where the therapist enters into a child’s world and understands the experience from their perspective.
![Photo of Andrea (Ange) Luciana Martinez, ACA-L1, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9bab6b41-ba79-4e46-90d7-53073636a253/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a parent of two teenagers and a young, neurodiverse adult, I know how challenging it can be for families at times. Many families are complex and time-poor, and we all need support in a non-judgmental way. While I have my own lived experience of family life, I know that each family system has its distinct strengths and challenges, and comes with its own unique story. It is my sincere desire and responsibility to listen with an open heart and mind and to truly understand the needs of each individual I meet. Therapy needs to be tailored for each person, given the complex systems they operate within.
As a parent of two teenagers and a young, neurodiverse adult, I know how challenging it can be for families at times. Many families are complex and time-poor, and we all need support in a non-judgmental way. While I have my own lived experience of family life, I know that each family system has its distinct strengths and challenges, and comes with its own unique story. It is my sincere desire and responsibility to listen with an open heart and mind and to truly understand the needs of each individual I meet. Therapy needs to be tailored for each person, given the complex systems they operate within.
![Photo of Maria Wen, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a459341a-edcf-4d31-bcfd-2b20bea01cd7/2/320x400.jpeg)
All children want to feel understood, accepted and loved, but sometimes the opposite is experienced in day to day relationships with their parents, siblings, and at school. These feelings can be overwhelmingly frustrating, confusing and stressful for you and your child. You have tried so many ways to help your child and worry about your family's emotional and mental well-being. I can help you and your child gain insight, break through the negative experiences and restore hope. Through our work together, you will feel more supported and your child will improve their self esteem.
All children want to feel understood, accepted and loved, but sometimes the opposite is experienced in day to day relationships with their parents, siblings, and at school. These feelings can be overwhelmingly frustrating, confusing and stressful for you and your child. You have tried so many ways to help your child and worry about your family's emotional and mental well-being. I can help you and your child gain insight, break through the negative experiences and restore hope. Through our work together, you will feel more supported and your child will improve their self esteem.
![Photo of Arlyn Owens](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f1b5583-7181-48c0-a1ea-7034e204e158/2/320x400.jpeg)
I’m a Psychosexual Therapist & Educator, Gestalt Therapist and Registered Nurse. I’ve been a practicing Therapist since 2019, with over 10yrs experience in the health system. I see individuals, couples & polycules for counselling & education around sexuality & relationships, and general mental health.
I’m a Psychosexual Therapist & Educator, Gestalt Therapist and Registered Nurse. I’ve been a practicing Therapist since 2019, with over 10yrs experience in the health system. I see individuals, couples & polycules for counselling & education around sexuality & relationships, and general mental health.
![Photo of Tim Bullivant, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2164d91b-9908-4402-addf-55bf0bd54fdf/2/320x400.jpeg)
My clinical practice focuses on children, adolescents and young adults. I have experience treating a wide range of presentations.. I would suit clients seeking an affable and approachable clinical psychologist. I use an attachment framework throughout my work, helping clients to understand interpersonal patterns and to develop strong and protective relationships. I have specific interests in treating eating disorders and trauma, and supporting neurodivergent clients using a neuroaffirming approach.
My clinical practice focuses on children, adolescents and young adults. I have experience treating a wide range of presentations.. I would suit clients seeking an affable and approachable clinical psychologist. I use an attachment framework throughout my work, helping clients to understand interpersonal patterns and to develop strong and protective relationships. I have specific interests in treating eating disorders and trauma, and supporting neurodivergent clients using a neuroaffirming approach.
![Photo of Karen Rose, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d7c8692-6b0a-43ad-a4df-b2bafa51788f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Thanks for stopping by! I'm a warm and welcoming therapist and I provide counselling services for adolescents (10-14) and adults. I specialise in issues related to relationships (including with yourself) and life transitions. For adults, this includes managing societal pressures (for example pressure to have children), infertility, parenting, and navigating toxic relationships. For adolescents, I can help with anxiety, trauma, body image, life transitions (e.g. divorce), friendships, grief and self-esteem.
Thanks for stopping by! I'm a warm and welcoming therapist and I provide counselling services for adolescents (10-14) and adults. I specialise in issues related to relationships (including with yourself) and life transitions. For adults, this includes managing societal pressures (for example pressure to have children), infertility, parenting, and navigating toxic relationships. For adolescents, I can help with anxiety, trauma, body image, life transitions (e.g. divorce), friendships, grief and self-esteem.
![Photo of Justine Pash, PACFA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f29527c3-fc7c-4b5b-b456-eb8ac62d008b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life's for sure, a roller coaster. Along with the ups, there will naturally be downs - illness, pain, worry, conflict, transitions and loss. Sometimes we can hang on for the ride and who will be in the seat beside us; at other times, we may feel pummelled, adrift or even alone in our experience. Being heard, seen, and validated can begin a process of deep understanding and change. I am a degree-qualified Therapist and eating disorder clinician who's passionate about providing ethical and evidence-based support to all clients, no matter their concerns. You might like to see me in my CBD or Petersham rooms.
Life's for sure, a roller coaster. Along with the ups, there will naturally be downs - illness, pain, worry, conflict, transitions and loss. Sometimes we can hang on for the ride and who will be in the seat beside us; at other times, we may feel pummelled, adrift or even alone in our experience. Being heard, seen, and validated can begin a process of deep understanding and change. I am a degree-qualified Therapist and eating disorder clinician who's passionate about providing ethical and evidence-based support to all clients, no matter their concerns. You might like to see me in my CBD or Petersham rooms.
![Photo of Olivia Mackay, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/12f73864-2c02-4e3f-b50d-d7efe4387a72/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialise in psychodynamic psychotherapy, a therapeutic approach which involves collaborative work between the client and therapist. I bring a holistic view to my therapeutic work with each individual and integrate somatic and mindfulness elements as relevant and appropriate. Additionally, receiving an ADHD diagnosis in adulthood has given me a unique perspective on neurodiversity and a firsthand understanding of the profound shift in identity that often accompanies such a revelation.
I specialise in psychodynamic psychotherapy, a therapeutic approach which involves collaborative work between the client and therapist. I bring a holistic view to my therapeutic work with each individual and integrate somatic and mindfulness elements as relevant and appropriate. Additionally, receiving an ADHD diagnosis in adulthood has given me a unique perspective on neurodiversity and a firsthand understanding of the profound shift in identity that often accompanies such a revelation.
![Photo of Katie Summerfield - Heart Of Play Therapy Katie Summerfield](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e319262a-53e3-4fea-af5d-23c3b9859cfe/1/320x400.jpeg)
Like a flower, we bloom in the right environment; in the play therapy room I work with empathy and acceptance to create a safe space for children and families in order for them to work through their issues and “grow”. I recognise the importance of family and offer assistance to parents and carers to work towards a safer, happier and more relaxed home environment in a strength-based way. Child-centred Play Therapy is a gentle, trauma-informed and neuro-affirming way of supporting children in their unique reactions to coping with daily life, big life events or trauma and attachment issues.
Like a flower, we bloom in the right environment; in the play therapy room I work with empathy and acceptance to create a safe space for children and families in order for them to work through their issues and “grow”. I recognise the importance of family and offer assistance to parents and carers to work towards a safer, happier and more relaxed home environment in a strength-based way. Child-centred Play Therapy is a gentle, trauma-informed and neuro-affirming way of supporting children in their unique reactions to coping with daily life, big life events or trauma and attachment issues.
![Photo of Laurel Walter, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ebcba2da-31ca-47b2-8fe2-f20c59a0890c/1/320x400.jpeg)
My therapeutic style is curious and exploratory. I support people to understand their patterns of behaviour and relating, and review what may be unhelpful or ready for change. I have a particular interest in psychodynamic and Jungian therapies, however will work with individuals in the way that best suits them. Having experienced my own very rough patches, I am glad to support others to better understand themselves and their experiences.
My therapeutic style is curious and exploratory. I support people to understand their patterns of behaviour and relating, and review what may be unhelpful or ready for change. I have a particular interest in psychodynamic and Jungian therapies, however will work with individuals in the way that best suits them. Having experienced my own very rough patches, I am glad to support others to better understand themselves and their experiences.
![Photo of Patrick Bryant, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c12922c0-2ab5-4f86-9857-80bd9f2be747/2/320x400.jpeg)
We have two ears and one mouth so that we can listen twice as much as we speak. (Epictetus). Throughout my training to become a psychologist, I observed an emphasis that was placed on skills such as clinical knowledge, research, and critical thinking. Through my journey practicing as a psychologist, I have come to see that while such skills are crucial in being able to provide care and support to others, they lose some of their value without the ability to listen and show the patience that people deserve.
We have two ears and one mouth so that we can listen twice as much as we speak. (Epictetus). Throughout my training to become a psychologist, I observed an emphasis that was placed on skills such as clinical knowledge, research, and critical thinking. Through my journey practicing as a psychologist, I have come to see that while such skills are crucial in being able to provide care and support to others, they lose some of their value without the ability to listen and show the patience that people deserve.
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Anne-Marie Taylor - Seen Felt Heard Counselling
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Petersham, NSW 2049
Imagine making changes to break free from what's holding you back, getting clarity about your next steps, and working towards the life you want. I specialize in helping people who are ready for change and want to transform their lives. My approach helps you identify and break free from unhelpful patterns, gain clarity, and develop the skills to navigate life's challenges. By understanding the influence of your past, making sense of your present, and creating a future in line with your values, together we facilitate a space for growth.
Imagine making changes to break free from what's holding you back, getting clarity about your next steps, and working towards the life you want. I specialize in helping people who are ready for change and want to transform their lives. My approach helps you identify and break free from unhelpful patterns, gain clarity, and develop the skills to navigate life's challenges. By understanding the influence of your past, making sense of your present, and creating a future in line with your values, together we facilitate a space for growth.
![Photo of Toni Leemen, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2539a648-8cfc-4f89-ab1c-450b1eec537e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I trained as a therapist because I know the grief, health-related anxiety and depression of chronic illness can be overwhelming. What was going on pre-diagnosis can also need attention. I am available to validate difficult feelings, explore the sense of burden and work towards acceptance and restoring self-worth and confidence. My lived experience is of managing T1 Diabetes from the age of 17. My research interest is the role of chronic stress in auto-immune conditions and my purpose is to be available to those who seek more grounded and settled nervous systems as part of their approach to managing their health.
I trained as a therapist because I know the grief, health-related anxiety and depression of chronic illness can be overwhelming. What was going on pre-diagnosis can also need attention. I am available to validate difficult feelings, explore the sense of burden and work towards acceptance and restoring self-worth and confidence. My lived experience is of managing T1 Diabetes from the age of 17. My research interest is the role of chronic stress in auto-immune conditions and my purpose is to be available to those who seek more grounded and settled nervous systems as part of their approach to managing their health.
![Photo of Ann-Maree Whelan, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/03ad4282-8c36-435a-b4c8-87a80a1cfd52/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ann-Maree is a warm and experienced psychologist, who works from a strengths-based and trauma-informed perspective. She works collaboratively with clients using a wide range of evidence-based treatment approaches tailored to their individual needs. She aims to create a safe, non-judgemental and supportive therapeutic space where individuals can develop insight and create meaningful change in their lives and relationships. Ann-Maree has over 14 years’ experience in working with clients through life experiences such as neurodiversity, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, trauma, grief and loss.
Ann-Maree is a warm and experienced psychologist, who works from a strengths-based and trauma-informed perspective. She works collaboratively with clients using a wide range of evidence-based treatment approaches tailored to their individual needs. She aims to create a safe, non-judgemental and supportive therapeutic space where individuals can develop insight and create meaningful change in their lives and relationships. Ann-Maree has over 14 years’ experience in working with clients through life experiences such as neurodiversity, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, trauma, grief and loss.
![Photo of Olga Sukhovskaya, MA, PACFA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da86db39-9dda-42a6-9366-afc25a4ca68c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Olga Sukhovskaya
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Petersham, NSW 2048 (Online Only)
Carers strive to balance their loved one's quality of life with their own well-being. Finding the balance to reduce burnout is a common goal. Therapy could be focused on coping strategies for processing difficult emotions or managing the logistics of ongoing problem-solving. Maintaining healthy relationships and issues with family dynamics is also a common struggle. Carers often seek support for a difficult life transition such as after receiving a diagnosis or transitioning a loved one to permanent care.
Carers strive to balance their loved one's quality of life with their own well-being. Finding the balance to reduce burnout is a common goal. Therapy could be focused on coping strategies for processing difficult emotions or managing the logistics of ongoing problem-solving. Maintaining healthy relationships and issues with family dynamics is also a common struggle. Carers often seek support for a difficult life transition such as after receiving a diagnosis or transitioning a loved one to permanent care.
![Photo of Bronwyn Davies Glover - Bronwyn Davies Glover - As You Are Psychotherapy, PACFA, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fd9dac3-b470-41ce-9299-f85c05ec7340/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bronwyn Davies Glover - As You Are Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Petersham, NSW 2049
Hi, I'm Bronwyn. I am an integrative, empathic, person-centred therapist bringing holistic, somatic, creative and dynamic approaches to the intersections of anti-oppressive, trauma informed practice. I offer inclusive, accessible therapy that values every aspect of the client. This means that I view each client as a whole person with a unique worldview informed by the stories of their mind-body experiences. Each unique individual requires a uniquely individual approach and this approach is grounded in the principles of trauma care; safety, trustworthiness, collaboration, empowerment and choice.
Hi, I'm Bronwyn. I am an integrative, empathic, person-centred therapist bringing holistic, somatic, creative and dynamic approaches to the intersections of anti-oppressive, trauma informed practice. I offer inclusive, accessible therapy that values every aspect of the client. This means that I view each client as a whole person with a unique worldview informed by the stories of their mind-body experiences. Each unique individual requires a uniquely individual approach and this approach is grounded in the principles of trauma care; safety, trustworthiness, collaboration, empowerment and choice.
![Photo of Von Coves, PACFA, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b79d1bc-6d2b-41b9-bb0a-1d77faf00893/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sometimes you just need to talk. TRAUMA? PTSD? ANXIETY? I invite you to contact me. You're welcome to talk in depth about whatever is bothering you. It can feel daunting to reach out but please remember that therapy doesn’t have to be miserable! Sometimes, we are out of touch with our feelings because our early caregivers could not meet our needs. Perhaps it was not safe or acceptable to be ourselves in the past. Psychotherapy involves learning to deeply understand yourself. The healing power of psychotherapy can be found in the quality of your relationship with your therapist. You are welcome to contact me today.
Sometimes you just need to talk. TRAUMA? PTSD? ANXIETY? I invite you to contact me. You're welcome to talk in depth about whatever is bothering you. It can feel daunting to reach out but please remember that therapy doesn’t have to be miserable! Sometimes, we are out of touch with our feelings because our early caregivers could not meet our needs. Perhaps it was not safe or acceptable to be ourselves in the past. Psychotherapy involves learning to deeply understand yourself. The healing power of psychotherapy can be found in the quality of your relationship with your therapist. You are welcome to contact me today.
![Photo of Roberta Iavarone - The Listening Pod, ACA-L2, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3692c0a9-06e2-40fc-93ff-435183338cd6/3/320x400.jpeg)
Roberta Iavarone - The Listening Pod
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Petersham, NSW 2049
Are you struggling to navigate a challenging life situation such as a relationship break-up, conflict with a family member or work colleague, life stage such as menopause, or are generally feeling stuck & unhappy in your life & are wanting more ? You may be feeling depressed, anxious and alone and in need of someone to talk to who genuinely cares and can support you to build skills & confidence to work towards your wellbeing goals? Hi I'm Roberta & I have a special interest in working with women & men in all stages of life to help them move through life's challenges so they can live their best & most meaningful life!
Are you struggling to navigate a challenging life situation such as a relationship break-up, conflict with a family member or work colleague, life stage such as menopause, or are generally feeling stuck & unhappy in your life & are wanting more ? You may be feeling depressed, anxious and alone and in need of someone to talk to who genuinely cares and can support you to build skills & confidence to work towards your wellbeing goals? Hi I'm Roberta & I have a special interest in working with women & men in all stages of life to help them move through life's challenges so they can live their best & most meaningful life!
![Photo of Tatiana Faundez, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49e8f4bf-46fe-44a3-a696-a1d6b154b6ca/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tatiana Faundez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Petersham, NSW 2049
I am a Social Worker and a Gestalt Psychotherapist. I have worked in mental health, disability, with the aged and the dying. Throughout my life journey I have come to have a deep appreciation of the human spirit and its capacity for growth and development. I understand that we are all unique in our response to the challenges that we face, and I work towards creating a supportive and safe environment that allows exploration of what is currently occurring in your life and how it is impacting your ability to live as you would like. Through this process, awareness deepens and the possibility and opportunity for change can occur.
I am a Social Worker and a Gestalt Psychotherapist. I have worked in mental health, disability, with the aged and the dying. Throughout my life journey I have come to have a deep appreciation of the human spirit and its capacity for growth and development. I understand that we are all unique in our response to the challenges that we face, and I work towards creating a supportive and safe environment that allows exploration of what is currently occurring in your life and how it is impacting your ability to live as you would like. Through this process, awareness deepens and the possibility and opportunity for change can occur.
![Photo of Charlotte Ritchie - Charlotte Ritchie Counselling and Psychotherapy, PACFA, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/620b49f4-a573-446e-8db8-8c29e3260a9e/4/320x400.jpeg)
Charlotte Ritchie Counselling and Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Petersham, NSW 2049
I am passionate about partnering with people to help them tolerate extreme emotion, to learn and grow and be free to choose new behaviours. I have decades of lived and years of clinical experience with Alcohol and Other Drugs use and abuse and the traumas that so often lead to it and arise from it. I have understanding of complex PTSD and the Autonomic Nervous System and the ways our experiences get laid down in our systems and repeat themselves, often causing relationship upsets.
I am passionate about partnering with people to help them tolerate extreme emotion, to learn and grow and be free to choose new behaviours. I have decades of lived and years of clinical experience with Alcohol and Other Drugs use and abuse and the traumas that so often lead to it and arise from it. I have understanding of complex PTSD and the Autonomic Nervous System and the ways our experiences get laid down in our systems and repeat themselves, often causing relationship upsets.
See more therapy options for Petersham
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Petersham, NSW
40+
Average cost per session
$167
Counsellors in Petersham, NSW who prioritize treating:
96% | Anxiety |
93% | Self Esteem |
89% | Depression |
87% | Relationship Issues |
83% | Stress |
74% | Life Transitions |
72% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
63% | Medicare Rebates |
50% | Bupa |
31% | Medibank Private |
How Counsellors in Petersham, NSW see their clients
90% | In Person and Online | |
10% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
26% | Male | |
2% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Petersham?
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.