Counselling in Clarence Park, SA
![Photo of Louise Rachele Melhem - Louise Therapy for Her , MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/126139e8-1e92-4f97-abdd-ceef2addcc6d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am considered to be kind, patient, caring, compassionate, and supportive. I am a qualified registered mental health nurse, with over 10 years of experience working as a nurse. I have worked with people living with mild to complex mental health disorders. My specialty includes supporting people through relationship difficulties, personality disorders, stress, anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma. I am passionate about mental health and personal growth. I love educating and empowering others and want to work through any obstacle or challenge in your life. I focus on helping you achieve your goals and break down any barriers.
I am considered to be kind, patient, caring, compassionate, and supportive. I am a qualified registered mental health nurse, with over 10 years of experience working as a nurse. I have worked with people living with mild to complex mental health disorders. My specialty includes supporting people through relationship difficulties, personality disorders, stress, anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma. I am passionate about mental health and personal growth. I love educating and empowering others and want to work through any obstacle or challenge in your life. I focus on helping you achieve your goals and break down any barriers.
![Photo of Adrianna Munayco Wynman, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/500b08b8-a6aa-440c-922a-c81177915931/1/320x400.jpeg)
I’m deeply committed to guiding individuals through their journey towards healing and growth. My heart is dedicated to supporting adolescents and adults facing challenges such as anxiety, trauma, self-esteem struggles, BPD, depression, stress, and body image issues. In my practice, I don't just see clients; I connect with individuals on a personal level. I take the time to understand your unique experiences, strengths, and aspirations, fostering a therapeutic relationship built on trust and understanding. If you're ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment, I'm here to walk alongside you every step of the way!
I’m deeply committed to guiding individuals through their journey towards healing and growth. My heart is dedicated to supporting adolescents and adults facing challenges such as anxiety, trauma, self-esteem struggles, BPD, depression, stress, and body image issues. In my practice, I don't just see clients; I connect with individuals on a personal level. I take the time to understand your unique experiences, strengths, and aspirations, fostering a therapeutic relationship built on trust and understanding. If you're ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment, I'm here to walk alongside you every step of the way!
![Photo of Pamela Kay Mitchell, ACA-L4, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81571641-76fa-4fb9-bdff-7c5bfffb22b6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Whether a couple, a family, or an individual, life has been tough in these past few years impacting most of us in some way, emotionally, mentally, spiritually, financially, and/or physically. For many, it may be the first time to consider reaching out for some extra support. For others, the tough times will have brought to the surface, issues that have been festering for a while, but now appear more serious. Whatever the circumstance, being supported in compassionate and confidential surrounds, with relevancy and sensitivity, results can and will occur, with the road ahead emerging as more possible and attractive to navigate.
Whether a couple, a family, or an individual, life has been tough in these past few years impacting most of us in some way, emotionally, mentally, spiritually, financially, and/or physically. For many, it may be the first time to consider reaching out for some extra support. For others, the tough times will have brought to the surface, issues that have been festering for a while, but now appear more serious. Whatever the circumstance, being supported in compassionate and confidential surrounds, with relevancy and sensitivity, results can and will occur, with the road ahead emerging as more possible and attractive to navigate.
![Photo of Dr Alissa Knight, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38c28153-1bb0-4cbc-be7c-c9fdeda9f4ff/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Clinical Psychologist, Researcher, and Founder of The Calming Suite in Clarence Park South Australia. My greatest passion as a Psychologist is helping youth (12 - 30) with Eating Disorders, and related issues such as Anxiety, Borderline Personality Disorder, Trauma, Body Image concerns, Bullying, and Suicidality. The greatest gift as a Psychologist is watching so many beautiful individuals often in severe hurt, pain, and darkness, with no hope for the future, take that leap of faith with me and completely transform their life. Seeing a smile back on their face and hope through their eyes is everything.
I am a Clinical Psychologist, Researcher, and Founder of The Calming Suite in Clarence Park South Australia. My greatest passion as a Psychologist is helping youth (12 - 30) with Eating Disorders, and related issues such as Anxiety, Borderline Personality Disorder, Trauma, Body Image concerns, Bullying, and Suicidality. The greatest gift as a Psychologist is watching so many beautiful individuals often in severe hurt, pain, and darkness, with no hope for the future, take that leap of faith with me and completely transform their life. Seeing a smile back on their face and hope through their eyes is everything.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Jean Chaney - Hill Top Counselling Centre, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/314cff2b-cb62-4cec-97ec-3a58fc41eba2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hill Top Counselling Centre
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000
As a highly experienced mental health clinician with over 20 years' practice, I understand that people can suffer from anxiety, low motivation and mood changes when life's problems become overwhelming. Life can be challenging at times and tough times can leave us feeling overwhelmed and distressed. It's easier to overcome challenging times with the right support, and therapy can be a good option to help you "get back on track.'. My therapeutic approach is short term, recovery based, and future focused. I will always work with you in partnership, as you set your own personal goals for recovery.
As a highly experienced mental health clinician with over 20 years' practice, I understand that people can suffer from anxiety, low motivation and mood changes when life's problems become overwhelming. Life can be challenging at times and tough times can leave us feeling overwhelmed and distressed. It's easier to overcome challenging times with the right support, and therapy can be a good option to help you "get back on track.'. My therapeutic approach is short term, recovery based, and future focused. I will always work with you in partnership, as you set your own personal goals for recovery.
![Photo of Ashleigh Wallach, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c067c52b-651d-4e15-a2be-6ffd3d7038bb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashleigh is a registered psychologist and Board-approved supervisor with many years experience helping clients to identify, understand and overcome the sources of their distress. Ashleigh is passionate about providing clients with the knowledge and strategies that form a roadmap for life long personal exploration, healing and fulfilment. Ashleigh has a calm and compassionate presence, and will strive to maintain a clear and transparent trajectory towards helping you to achieve your goals.
Ashleigh is a registered psychologist and Board-approved supervisor with many years experience helping clients to identify, understand and overcome the sources of their distress. Ashleigh is passionate about providing clients with the knowledge and strategies that form a roadmap for life long personal exploration, healing and fulfilment. Ashleigh has a calm and compassionate presence, and will strive to maintain a clear and transparent trajectory towards helping you to achieve your goals.
![Photo of Lauren Fisher - Inner Worlds Arts Therapy, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/01c2bcae-e207-4eb2-b7c3-c769a4384d5b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Please reach out via email. Hello! I'm Lauren (she/they) and I am an Arts Psychotherapist and Counsellor based in the Outer Eastern suburbs of Naarm (Melbourne). I have lived experience of being neurodivergent (AuDHD) and I am currently exploring my own queer identity. I am passionate about neuro-affirming care and psychoeducation around neurodivergence, and holistic care for youth, women and queer folk living with disability and trauma. I am a mum to one human teen and one elderly Siamese cat. I am an established artist who dabbles in art journaling, mixed media art, photography, dance and movement and more.
Please reach out via email. Hello! I'm Lauren (she/they) and I am an Arts Psychotherapist and Counsellor based in the Outer Eastern suburbs of Naarm (Melbourne). I have lived experience of being neurodivergent (AuDHD) and I am currently exploring my own queer identity. I am passionate about neuro-affirming care and psychoeducation around neurodivergence, and holistic care for youth, women and queer folk living with disability and trauma. I am a mum to one human teen and one elderly Siamese cat. I am an established artist who dabbles in art journaling, mixed media art, photography, dance and movement and more.
![Photo of Dr M Ala, PhD, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/91d2fdd9-1d3a-45c8-b79b-a8500b164ae7/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a dedicated and compassionate counsellor, I support and empower clients to overcome challenges and achieve their aspirations. I specialize in providing a safe, nurturing environment where clients feel heard, valued, and understood. My client-centered approach focuses on individual needs to foster resilience and growth. My ideal client faces life transitions, stress, burnout, anxiety, depression, or relationship issues. They may feel overwhelmed and need guidance to navigate their emotions, find clarity, develop coping strategies, and achieve balance and well-being. They seek a non-judgmental, empathetic counsellor with expertise.
As a dedicated and compassionate counsellor, I support and empower clients to overcome challenges and achieve their aspirations. I specialize in providing a safe, nurturing environment where clients feel heard, valued, and understood. My client-centered approach focuses on individual needs to foster resilience and growth. My ideal client faces life transitions, stress, burnout, anxiety, depression, or relationship issues. They may feel overwhelmed and need guidance to navigate their emotions, find clarity, develop coping strategies, and achieve balance and well-being. They seek a non-judgmental, empathetic counsellor with expertise.
![Photo of Dr Renee Sichter: Living Free Psychology, PsychD, MAPS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2505b66e-d264-4265-ba81-a780b0233aee/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Renee Sichter: Living Free Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000 (Online Only)
NOW accepting NEW clients & HAVE availability! I love working with "everyday" teens to 20s, who are doing it tough and want to change the direction of their life. Maybe you're experiencing anxiety, OCD, stress, and are feeling stuck, hopeless, alone.... Maybe you've had a rough upbringing, made "bad" decisions, use substances and want to stop. Or maybe life is ok but you just want more...
NOW accepting NEW clients & HAVE availability! I love working with "everyday" teens to 20s, who are doing it tough and want to change the direction of their life. Maybe you're experiencing anxiety, OCD, stress, and are feeling stuck, hopeless, alone.... Maybe you've had a rough upbringing, made "bad" decisions, use substances and want to stop. Or maybe life is ok but you just want more...
![Photo of Melissa Essence - Melissa Essence](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3060516d-ceb0-4f46-8f6c-21d0e97cfd79/2/320x400.jpeg)
Codependency: what exactly is it? It is the need to look outside of ourselves for validation. It manifests as putting others’ feelings, needs, and perceptions before our own. Often, it is unconscious and we don't even realise we do it. It can be extreme or subtle. We are co-dependent when we are pulled by the outside world rather than being in alignment with our true desires and soul path. Co-dependency may look like: a romantic relationship or friendship where you merge into the other, become consumed by their world, lose yourself, do activities that they enjoy, or show an interest in their interests.
Codependency: what exactly is it? It is the need to look outside of ourselves for validation. It manifests as putting others’ feelings, needs, and perceptions before our own. Often, it is unconscious and we don't even realise we do it. It can be extreme or subtle. We are co-dependent when we are pulled by the outside world rather than being in alignment with our true desires and soul path. Co-dependency may look like: a romantic relationship or friendship where you merge into the other, become consumed by their world, lose yourself, do activities that they enjoy, or show an interest in their interests.
![Photo of Michelle Ottey, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a88b6752-85f6-4129-b567-99bc416cc06a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Ottey
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Adelaide, SA 5000 (Online Only)
I use a collaborative approach to treat a range of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety-related disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, sleep disorders, trauma-related disorders, and many more. I am also here to support you through life’s challenges such grief and loss, relationship and marital problems, parenting challenges and living with the impact of chronic health conditions. With expertise in childhood trauma, I bring a strong attachment focus to therapy. I am committed to helping you better understand yourself and how you relate to others, to uncover the patterns that get in the way of your well-being.
I use a collaborative approach to treat a range of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety-related disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, sleep disorders, trauma-related disorders, and many more. I am also here to support you through life’s challenges such grief and loss, relationship and marital problems, parenting challenges and living with the impact of chronic health conditions. With expertise in childhood trauma, I bring a strong attachment focus to therapy. I am committed to helping you better understand yourself and how you relate to others, to uncover the patterns that get in the way of your well-being.
![Photo of Amelie Nguyen, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7275e874-79b1-4cc6-a535-dce0d1fff897/4/320x400.jpeg)
Amelie Nguyen
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000 (Online Only)
Concessions available now. Amelie is a qualified and highly accomplished Clinical Psychologist & Board Approved Supervisor, dedicated to helping you BE the change you wish to see in your life. Amelie works collaboratively with you to achieve your therapeutic goals and overcome the barriers that get in your way. Learn to improve your functioning and quality of life through emotion regulation skills, mindfulness, being more effective in your relationships with others, resolving conflict, using clear communication, problem solving, decision making, and better managing life stressors.
Concessions available now. Amelie is a qualified and highly accomplished Clinical Psychologist & Board Approved Supervisor, dedicated to helping you BE the change you wish to see in your life. Amelie works collaboratively with you to achieve your therapeutic goals and overcome the barriers that get in your way. Learn to improve your functioning and quality of life through emotion regulation skills, mindfulness, being more effective in your relationships with others, resolving conflict, using clear communication, problem solving, decision making, and better managing life stressors.
![Photo of Shana Osborne - Clinical Psychologist - People Psychology, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/55c0a28a-9829-4afd-88a8-841c1faa8629/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shana Osborne - Clinical Psychologist - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000
Shana prioritises warmth and authenticity in sessions. She aims to create an open-minded and nonjudgmental space, where clients collaborate with her to explore, move towards, and meet their goals. Shana strives to strike the balance between providing a space for clients to feel truly heard and supported and assisting them towards meaningful change in their lives by working through relevant tools, coping strategies, and distinct perspectives from a range of therapeutic approaches.
Shana prioritises warmth and authenticity in sessions. She aims to create an open-minded and nonjudgmental space, where clients collaborate with her to explore, move towards, and meet their goals. Shana strives to strike the balance between providing a space for clients to feel truly heard and supported and assisting them towards meaningful change in their lives by working through relevant tools, coping strategies, and distinct perspectives from a range of therapeutic approaches.
![Photo of Karen Michelbach, PACFA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e9972ea-e9dc-4825-9f76-5ade89c42746/1/320x400.jpeg)
12-25 year olds seek me out when they are struggling with worries of life that are limiting their potential. Many battle self- doubt and thoughts like, "I'm not good enough / pretty enough" or "I can't do that" or "I'm stupid"; ...and comparing self to others is a BIG TRAP. Science shows us that we are all unique in so many ways (finger & retina print, DNA, eye & hair colour, body shape, family structure, school/home/work/world-experience etc) so why do we torture ourselves by making comparisons to others??? YOU ARE PERFECTLY YOU.
12-25 year olds seek me out when they are struggling with worries of life that are limiting their potential. Many battle self- doubt and thoughts like, "I'm not good enough / pretty enough" or "I can't do that" or "I'm stupid"; ...and comparing self to others is a BIG TRAP. Science shows us that we are all unique in so many ways (finger & retina print, DNA, eye & hair colour, body shape, family structure, school/home/work/world-experience etc) so why do we torture ourselves by making comparisons to others??? YOU ARE PERFECTLY YOU.
![Photo of Carola Ingrid Maier - Psycho-Energetic Therapy, PACFA, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52d77a0a-a335-4f7a-ad8c-ba577e4052d3/1/320x400.jpeg)
My overall purpose of counselling and psychotherapy is to help you untangle your mind and reconnect the dots so that you can get back in touch with your essence and take charge of your life. The purpose of PsychoEnergetic therapy is to connect you back with who you truly are rather than who you were conditioned to be – to reconnect you to your inner wisdom and guidance, your innermost dreams and your fundamental purpose. It enables you to connect to the existential reality of life so that you can gain a level of acceptance of anything that can’t be changed. This will help you to find the courage to change those things you can.
My overall purpose of counselling and psychotherapy is to help you untangle your mind and reconnect the dots so that you can get back in touch with your essence and take charge of your life. The purpose of PsychoEnergetic therapy is to connect you back with who you truly are rather than who you were conditioned to be – to reconnect you to your inner wisdom and guidance, your innermost dreams and your fundamental purpose. It enables you to connect to the existential reality of life so that you can gain a level of acceptance of anything that can’t be changed. This will help you to find the courage to change those things you can.
![Photo of Adam Merrick, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c90df37-6894-4ecc-b0d5-81e49a8b0de8/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am motivated by helping people work through their challenges to fulfil their potential and lead better lives. What that looks like is ensuring I hear your story, understand what you are going through, and provide you with the tools and skills to improve your situation. As a registered Psychologist I am committed to your personal wellbeing, improved performance and helping you succeed.
I am motivated by helping people work through their challenges to fulfil their potential and lead better lives. What that looks like is ensuring I hear your story, understand what you are going through, and provide you with the tools and skills to improve your situation. As a registered Psychologist I am committed to your personal wellbeing, improved performance and helping you succeed.
![Photo of Carolyn A Rogers, PACFA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc10af74-9b95-4739-889c-4b04de071916/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you looking for a Queer Informed Counsellor? Holistic, non-medicalising? Someone who 'just gets it'? Where you can be your authentic Self when you feel comfortable & safe? Someone with a unique understanding the impacts of living in a cisgender hetero normative society can have on the mental wellbeing of LGBTQA+ individuals & our communities. I offer a queer informed, person centred, strengths based therapy approach working exclusively with LGBTQA+ individuals 25 plus & those exploring or concealing their authentic gender & sexuality. Fully online with appointments available Saturdays.
Are you looking for a Queer Informed Counsellor? Holistic, non-medicalising? Someone who 'just gets it'? Where you can be your authentic Self when you feel comfortable & safe? Someone with a unique understanding the impacts of living in a cisgender hetero normative society can have on the mental wellbeing of LGBTQA+ individuals & our communities. I offer a queer informed, person centred, strengths based therapy approach working exclusively with LGBTQA+ individuals 25 plus & those exploring or concealing their authentic gender & sexuality. Fully online with appointments available Saturdays.
![Photo of Anna Maletz, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52db8e9a-9c1c-451c-9a82-81873d888777/1/320x400.jpeg)
I'm Anna. I offer a warm, calm, kind and respectful approach to your therapeutic journey. I enjoy working with adults who are interested in connecting with their own inner wisdom. I believe that many of the struggles we face in adult life stem from ways we learned to navigate and survive in the world as children, which may have worked for us then, but are no longer serving us now. Add to that the many experiences that have shaped us, especially the challenging ones and it makes sense that we might reach a point where some support is needed. My approach is holistic and incorporates the wisdom of the body as well as the mind.
I'm Anna. I offer a warm, calm, kind and respectful approach to your therapeutic journey. I enjoy working with adults who are interested in connecting with their own inner wisdom. I believe that many of the struggles we face in adult life stem from ways we learned to navigate and survive in the world as children, which may have worked for us then, but are no longer serving us now. Add to that the many experiences that have shaped us, especially the challenging ones and it makes sense that we might reach a point where some support is needed. My approach is holistic and incorporates the wisdom of the body as well as the mind.
![Photo of Ari Heart - Gender Therapy & Coaching, PACFA, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34cfc381-9785-4901-a984-30e42ffd85a2/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Ari Heart. I am a trans non-binary person, a psychotherapist, coach and educator in all things trans wellbeing. I help trans and nonbinary people experience greater clarity, ease and relief, without months or years of ongoing talk therapy. If you are struggling with your identity, dysphoria, your relationship with your body, decisions about transition/gender affirmation, how you can navigate other people, coming out, finding your authentic expression, or any other gender-based challenge, you do not have to be alone with it. We can work together to accelerate your movement towards a meaningful, enjoyable trans life.
My name is Ari Heart. I am a trans non-binary person, a psychotherapist, coach and educator in all things trans wellbeing. I help trans and nonbinary people experience greater clarity, ease and relief, without months or years of ongoing talk therapy. If you are struggling with your identity, dysphoria, your relationship with your body, decisions about transition/gender affirmation, how you can navigate other people, coming out, finding your authentic expression, or any other gender-based challenge, you do not have to be alone with it. We can work together to accelerate your movement towards a meaningful, enjoyable trans life.
![Photo of Syann Hamden - Syann - MSNQC Counselling & Expressive Therapies, ACA-L1, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0856b710-c940-4ab6-b8b1-1ce1a7b09e8d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Syann - MSNQC Counselling & Expressive Therapies
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Adelaide, SA 5000 (Online Only)
I specialise in guiding women through life's transitions, whether you are embarking on a new project, navigating changes in your personal or professional life, or working to build confidence and focus, planned or unexpected. Many of my clients are at a crossroads, seeking to find or redefine themselves and their paths. I provide a nurturing and empowering space for you to explore these transitions, addressing the unique challenges you face. My approach helps you find balance, rediscover your inner strength, and connect with your true self to enable personal growth and build resilience.
I specialise in guiding women through life's transitions, whether you are embarking on a new project, navigating changes in your personal or professional life, or working to build confidence and focus, planned or unexpected. Many of my clients are at a crossroads, seeking to find or redefine themselves and their paths. I provide a nurturing and empowering space for you to explore these transitions, addressing the unique challenges you face. My approach helps you find balance, rediscover your inner strength, and connect with your true self to enable personal growth and build resilience.
See more therapy options for Clarence Park
Nearby Searches for Clarence Park
- Adelaide
- Cumberland Park
- Eastwood
- Fullarton
- Goodwood
- Hyde Park
- Mile End
- Millswood
- Parkside
- Unley
- Unley Park
- Wayville
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Clarence Park, SA
< 10
Counsellors in Clarence Park, SA who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Depression |
75% | Borderline Personality (BPD) |
75% | Self Esteem |
50% | Relationship Issues |
50% | Eating Disorders |
Average years in practice
22 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
50% | Bupa |
50% | Medicare Rebates |
50% | Medibank Private |
How Counsellors in Clarence Park, SA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Clarence Park?
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.