Counselling in Mount Barker, SA
![Photo of Bronwyn Bickle, ACA-L2, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37e46487-6b64-43d2-b42a-f05d30bc54e7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I'm Bronwyn, and I specialize in ethical non-monogamy (ENM) and chronic illness through online and in-person counselling. I also work extensively with folks from the neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+, kink and BDSM communities. ENM covers a range of relationship structures that fall outside of social norms, such as open-relationships and polyamory. Therapeutic topics often include jealousy, boundary setting, trust, attachment and sexual discovery. My work in the ENM field led me to author a book "The Beginner's Guide to Ethical Non-Monogamy". In this space I'm also known as 'The Polyamory Practitioner'; join me on Instagram and Facebook.
Hi, I'm Bronwyn, and I specialize in ethical non-monogamy (ENM) and chronic illness through online and in-person counselling. I also work extensively with folks from the neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+, kink and BDSM communities. ENM covers a range of relationship structures that fall outside of social norms, such as open-relationships and polyamory. Therapeutic topics often include jealousy, boundary setting, trust, attachment and sexual discovery. My work in the ENM field led me to author a book "The Beginner's Guide to Ethical Non-Monogamy". In this space I'm also known as 'The Polyamory Practitioner'; join me on Instagram and Facebook.
![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 Dr Timothy Hsi - Adelaide Hills, PhD, ACA-L4, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9220e5e-8e64-4e9b-9198-053515ab2cfd/2/320x400.png)
Dr Timothy Hsi - Adelaide Hills
Psychotherapist, PhD, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Mount Barker, SA 5251
EMDR is a highly effective approach for client seeking profound transformation from trauma, anxiety, depression, panic attacks, insomnia, nightmares, flashbacks, and avoidance behaviours as these emotional complexities are hindering their well-being. Clients who have worked with me have reported not only symptom relief but embark on a deep, transformative healing experience. If you have experienced trauma and currently are struggling with the lasting effects of those experiences, I can help you to start the journey towards better mental health with a greater sense of emotional freedom from your distressing past experience.
EMDR is a highly effective approach for client seeking profound transformation from trauma, anxiety, depression, panic attacks, insomnia, nightmares, flashbacks, and avoidance behaviours as these emotional complexities are hindering their well-being. Clients who have worked with me have reported not only symptom relief but embark on a deep, transformative healing experience. If you have experienced trauma and currently are struggling with the lasting effects of those experiences, I can help you to start the journey towards better mental health with a greater sense of emotional freedom from your distressing past experience.
![Photo of Bindi Blacher, AThR, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a1c071a-d6fe-4171-8c2b-1d310f867f0c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Supporting you to transform obstacles into new possibilities. Expressive Arts Therapy uses creative expression (visual arts, music, drama, movement, poetry etc) to explore, express and transform human experiences. A combination of verbal counselling and arts-making, it is a gentle and effective way to reflect upon and re-frame life's challenges. A person- centred process, it honors you as the expert in your own life, while offering helpful tools and strategies.
Supporting you to transform obstacles into new possibilities. Expressive Arts Therapy uses creative expression (visual arts, music, drama, movement, poetry etc) to explore, express and transform human experiences. A combination of verbal counselling and arts-making, it is a gentle and effective way to reflect upon and re-frame life's challenges. A person- centred process, it honors you as the expert in your own life, while offering helpful tools and strategies.
![Photo of Carolyn Grace - Grace Counselling and Education - Carolyn Grace, ACA-L4, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/055226ae-c3e3-4ea8-860b-96e2288a4c6f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Grace Counselling and Education - Carolyn Grace
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Mount Barker, SA 5251
Hi there :) Thank you for stopping by. My name is Carolyn and I am a Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor based in the beautiful Adelaide Hills. At Grace Counselling and Education I provide sensitive, caring and confidential counselling for children, young people and their families. I work together with your child or young person with your family. As the adults you become co-therapists and co-facilitators of healing for your family. I seek to understand your story and to journey with you. My goal is to provide a safe environment to explore and make meaning what you and your family are experiencing and together find hope and healing.
Hi there :) Thank you for stopping by. My name is Carolyn and I am a Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor based in the beautiful Adelaide Hills. At Grace Counselling and Education I provide sensitive, caring and confidential counselling for children, young people and their families. I work together with your child or young person with your family. As the adults you become co-therapists and co-facilitators of healing for your family. I seek to understand your story and to journey with you. My goal is to provide a safe environment to explore and make meaning what you and your family are experiencing and together find hope and healing.
![Photo of Elizabeth May, ACA-L2, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7099a1d-ad6b-4ffa-8b0f-abd321465468/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I'm Liz, an Adelaide Hills local. I am passionate about working as a counsellor. I believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where people can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences freely. Through a collaborative approach, I work to support people in gaining insight, developing coping skills, promoting resilience and fostering a sense of empowerment and self-belief.
Hi, I'm Liz, an Adelaide Hills local. I am passionate about working as a counsellor. I believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where people can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences freely. Through a collaborative approach, I work to support people in gaining insight, developing coping skills, promoting resilience and fostering a sense of empowerment and self-belief.
![Photo of Margaret Richards, PACFA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d5a51b6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Margaret Richards
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Mount Barker, SA 5251
Not accepting new clients
We all encounter life's difficulties and it shows courage rather than weakness to ask for a helping hand to work through and overcome them. Your situation may Include: Experiencing depression and anxiety, due to a stressful, ongoing or past experience, or an unfathomable occurrence. A transition from one season of life to another ie work/retirement, or a change in workplace. Relationship and communication difficulties with family, marital or other. The need for a compassionate, listening ear and framework to process your grief and loss experience, of a job, pet, limitations through illness/injury or the bereavement of a loved one.
We all encounter life's difficulties and it shows courage rather than weakness to ask for a helping hand to work through and overcome them. Your situation may Include: Experiencing depression and anxiety, due to a stressful, ongoing or past experience, or an unfathomable occurrence. A transition from one season of life to another ie work/retirement, or a change in workplace. Relationship and communication difficulties with family, marital or other. The need for a compassionate, listening ear and framework to process your grief and loss experience, of a job, pet, limitations through illness/injury or the bereavement of a loved one.
![Photo of Sharon Lee Allen - Wisdom Tree Counselling and Psychotherapy., MA, ACA-L2, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a4e135c-0d98-40c1-a66a-10a419d6eca3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Wisdom Tree Counselling and Psychotherapy.
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Barker, SA 5251
I value supporting individual clients with relationship stress, grief, depression and anxiety alongwith families and children who need support around difficult behaviours, and social emotional learning. Young children who present with anxiety, trauma and behavioural issues may benefit from in-school or individual support, or together within the family context. I have experience supporting disability clients and can assist them through their NDIS plan. My interest and experience in supporting family carers, assist them with personal identity issues, how to navigate their caring role, and guide them to resources for self-care.
I value supporting individual clients with relationship stress, grief, depression and anxiety alongwith families and children who need support around difficult behaviours, and social emotional learning. Young children who present with anxiety, trauma and behavioural issues may benefit from in-school or individual support, or together within the family context. I have experience supporting disability clients and can assist them through their NDIS plan. My interest and experience in supporting family carers, assist them with personal identity issues, how to navigate their caring role, and guide them to resources for self-care.
![Photo of Elja Parsons - Tall Trees Counselling and Psychotherapy, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/839f9c6d-265b-4828-893d-bd8d666e4a2c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Tall Trees Counselling and Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Mount Barker, SA 5251
Hello, I'm Elja. My approach to therapy is personalised, grounded in the philosophy that we are all just human and sometimes we need help to sort through the weeds.
Hello, I'm Elja. My approach to therapy is personalised, grounded in the philosophy that we are all just human and sometimes we need help to sort through the weeds.
![Photo of Kate Jurgens Phd, PhD, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b52df9b-e6a7-40de-91df-a4459ba0f253/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a specialist grief and bereavement counsellor. I support people to adapt to a significant change in their life following someone close dying. If you are experiencing grief and feel confused, stuck or overwhelmed, call me. I provide a non-judgemental and skilful space that is necessary for positive change. My role is to facilitate this with empathic listening and reflective inquiry. I guide people to create a healing pathway forward.
I am a specialist grief and bereavement counsellor. I support people to adapt to a significant change in their life following someone close dying. If you are experiencing grief and feel confused, stuck or overwhelmed, call me. I provide a non-judgemental and skilful space that is necessary for positive change. My role is to facilitate this with empathic listening and reflective inquiry. I guide people to create a healing pathway forward.
![Photo of Rachel Baldwin, PACFA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9ebac80-8dfc-497f-a2c6-e12c15bed3a6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there. My name is Rachel, and I am a counsellor with several years experience working in the human services field. I consider it a great privilege to listen to people’s stories and support them as they work through challenges, towards a more meaningful, fulfilling life. Everyone needs support at key times in their life and we don't need to carry heavy burdens on our own. I have supported clients to work through a range of issues, including grief and loss, anxiety, depression, self-harm, relationship challenges and domestic violence.
Hi there. My name is Rachel, and I am a counsellor with several years experience working in the human services field. I consider it a great privilege to listen to people’s stories and support them as they work through challenges, towards a more meaningful, fulfilling life. Everyone needs support at key times in their life and we don't need to carry heavy burdens on our own. I have supported clients to work through a range of issues, including grief and loss, anxiety, depression, self-harm, relationship challenges and domestic violence.
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Regain Balance - Counselling, Health & Wellbeing
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mount Barker, SA 5251
Welcome! I feel privileged to be able to offer you an integrative, trauma informed and evidence-based approach to counselling, health and wellbeing. I have an extensive background in healthcare and my aim as a counsellor is to help clients regain mental, emotional, social and physical health. I strive to guide and support my clients in finding the balance and confidence they need to manage stress, anxiety and depression, improve health, wellbeing and relationships. I am based in the Adelaide Hills & Fleurieu Peninsula and offer online or phone appointments outside of my clinic hours. Home visits are negotiable.
Welcome! I feel privileged to be able to offer you an integrative, trauma informed and evidence-based approach to counselling, health and wellbeing. I have an extensive background in healthcare and my aim as a counsellor is to help clients regain mental, emotional, social and physical health. I strive to guide and support my clients in finding the balance and confidence they need to manage stress, anxiety and depression, improve health, wellbeing and relationships. I am based in the Adelaide Hills & Fleurieu Peninsula and offer online or phone appointments outside of my clinic hours. Home visits are negotiable.
![Photo of Sandra Putek - Sandra Putek - Return To You Counselling](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a5d2f2b-daea-45ac-b690-fddeb00a8bdf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you unhappy, tired, and under constant stress? Do you find yourself taking on more than you can handle and saying yes when you really mean no? Have you not been feeling like yourself lately? Know it does not have to be this way. It's possible to live a life that feels so good, so fulfilling, a life where you feel confident and in control. Are you ready to learn what's preventing you from living the life you want? It’s time to return to you.
Are you unhappy, tired, and under constant stress? Do you find yourself taking on more than you can handle and saying yes when you really mean no? Have you not been feeling like yourself lately? Know it does not have to be this way. It's possible to live a life that feels so good, so fulfilling, a life where you feel confident and in control. Are you ready to learn what's preventing you from living the life you want? It’s time to return to you.
![Photo of Madaline Boyd - Natural Thinking Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d22cc31-51d9-4742-be9d-ef25d934ba68/3/320x400.jpeg)
Natural Thinking Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Mount Barker, SA 5251
I am passionate about helping and empowering people who are suffering from mental health and disability issues to find hope, relief, ease and wellbeing in their life. I support people to capacity build their own capacity so they are better able to manage the challenges that occur within there own life.
I am passionate about helping and empowering people who are suffering from mental health and disability issues to find hope, relief, ease and wellbeing in their life. I support people to capacity build their own capacity so they are better able to manage the challenges that occur within there own life.
![Photo of Abi Catchlove - Held Counselling Space - Abi Catchlove, MC, PACFA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a681118d-82b8-40ac-ab5d-73c49a42fb24/1/320x400.jpeg)
Held Counselling Space - Abi Catchlove
Counsellor, MC, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Barker, SA 5251
Held Counselling Space is a safe space to explore the depths and nuance of personhood, whether that is navigating grief, anxiety, people-pleasing, feeling lost or disconnected, relational challenges, stress, trauma or low self-worth. Together, we are curious, we are kind to whatever surfaces. With openness and discernment, we welcome wisdom and befriend our multi-faceted selves. A soft place to hold the light and the dark with care and an invitation to commune with your deep Self.
Held Counselling Space is a safe space to explore the depths and nuance of personhood, whether that is navigating grief, anxiety, people-pleasing, feeling lost or disconnected, relational challenges, stress, trauma or low self-worth. Together, we are curious, we are kind to whatever surfaces. With openness and discernment, we welcome wisdom and befriend our multi-faceted selves. A soft place to hold the light and the dark with care and an invitation to commune with your deep Self.
![Photo of Jane Armstrong - Reclaim Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA - Health Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/536541ff-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Reclaim Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Health Psych.
Verified Verified
Mount Barker, SA 5251 (Online Only)
People access therapy for concerns related to anxiety, stress, depression, grief and loss, relationship concerns, identity, self-esteem, life transitions, parenting, trauma, or simply to maintain positive mental health. I offer holistic Psychology services for adults and teens with a wide range of mental health issues and life challenges. Living in a rural location myself, I understand how difficult it can be to access help. Therapy is offered via phone which enables me to assist clients anywhere in Australia. This ensures flexibility for people that have difficulty accessing appointments due to work and family commitments.
People access therapy for concerns related to anxiety, stress, depression, grief and loss, relationship concerns, identity, self-esteem, life transitions, parenting, trauma, or simply to maintain positive mental health. I offer holistic Psychology services for adults and teens with a wide range of mental health issues and life challenges. Living in a rural location myself, I understand how difficult it can be to access help. Therapy is offered via phone which enables me to assist clients anywhere in Australia. This ensures flexibility for people that have difficulty accessing appointments due to work and family commitments.
![Photo of Toni Hanna, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/535a92b5-e831-47a0-96b6-f3a1810be934/1/320x400.jpeg)
Toni Hanna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Mount Barker, SA 5251
Not accepting new clients
Hi! Thanks for checking out my profile. I've been providing therapy for close to 30 years, and I'm still passionate about seeing the power in people to change. My experience is broad, and is the foundation for a calm, grounded approach to supporting you to overcome challenges and experience growth. I value getting to know you, understanding your concerns, and helping you to gain clarity about the life you want. I have a particular interest in supporting neurodivergent girls and women in their journey - whether that is questioning if you are neurodivergent, newly diagnosed, or any challenges you need to overcome.
Hi! Thanks for checking out my profile. I've been providing therapy for close to 30 years, and I'm still passionate about seeing the power in people to change. My experience is broad, and is the foundation for a calm, grounded approach to supporting you to overcome challenges and experience growth. I value getting to know you, understanding your concerns, and helping you to gain clarity about the life you want. I have a particular interest in supporting neurodivergent girls and women in their journey - whether that is questioning if you are neurodivergent, newly diagnosed, or any challenges you need to overcome.
![Photo of Kirby Michaelides, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b15d7c57-8d66-44ba-8430-29087bd3881d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kirby Michaelides
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Mount Barker, SA 5251 (Online Only)
A senior clinician, educator & leader in her field, Kirby specialises in neurodivergence as well as working with relationships and families, recognising how interconnected these areas are in the community that she serves. Kirby creates personalised treatment plans tailored to the unique needs of the individual whilst striving to ensure clients feel seen, heard and understood. If you are looking for the kind of clinician who truly goes over and above for their clients with genuine care, empathy, kindness and wealth of knowledge and experience then this is the clinician for you.
A senior clinician, educator & leader in her field, Kirby specialises in neurodivergence as well as working with relationships and families, recognising how interconnected these areas are in the community that she serves. Kirby creates personalised treatment plans tailored to the unique needs of the individual whilst striving to ensure clients feel seen, heard and understood. If you are looking for the kind of clinician who truly goes over and above for their clients with genuine care, empathy, kindness and wealth of knowledge and experience then this is the clinician for you.
![Photo of Joanna Burdorf - Talking Heads Counselling - Joanna, ACA-L2, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54741e69-2acf-462e-be88-d057bf0608ed/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I'm Joanna and I own and operate Talking Heads Counselling - an Adelaide Hills counselling service offering sessions in a cosy private cottage, in-school, via tele-health or outside in the fresh air. I aim to provide a safe, comfortable and relaxed space for children, adolescents and young adults (aged 5-25) to work through life's challenges. Enquiries for individuals outside of this age range will be considered on a case by case basis. Sometimes Collin and Phil the friendly dachshunds come to sessions too! If you would like to meet with me, bookings to be made via my website: www.talkingheadscounselling.com.au
Hello, I'm Joanna and I own and operate Talking Heads Counselling - an Adelaide Hills counselling service offering sessions in a cosy private cottage, in-school, via tele-health or outside in the fresh air. I aim to provide a safe, comfortable and relaxed space for children, adolescents and young adults (aged 5-25) to work through life's challenges. Enquiries for individuals outside of this age range will be considered on a case by case basis. Sometimes Collin and Phil the friendly dachshunds come to sessions too! If you would like to meet with me, bookings to be made via my website: www.talkingheadscounselling.com.au
![Photo of Corrina Jeffries, MPsych, ACA-L2, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f727171-ba9f-420e-8bb0-80ecebf721fb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Online (Australia-wide) & SA (in-person) - anxiety and relationship specialist for teens and adults impacted by trauma, emotional and behavioural concerns. Severe anxiety and the challenges of modern life can induce physical symptoms, disrupt work and academic study, cause social and family stress, and are linked to other mental health conditions. If problematic anxiety or life issues are holding you back, I can help you to improve your psychological well-being, alleviate symptoms, learn to navigate life's challenges and build resilience so you can identify and do what matters most to you in your life.
Online (Australia-wide) & SA (in-person) - anxiety and relationship specialist for teens and adults impacted by trauma, emotional and behavioural concerns. Severe anxiety and the challenges of modern life can induce physical symptoms, disrupt work and academic study, cause social and family stress, and are linked to other mental health conditions. If problematic anxiety or life issues are holding you back, I can help you to improve your psychological well-being, alleviate symptoms, learn to navigate life's challenges and build resilience so you can identify and do what matters most to you in your life.
See more therapy options for Mount Barker
Nearby Searches for Mount Barker
- Aldgate
- Bridgewater
- Crafers
- Hahndorf
- Littlehampton
- Lobethal
- Meadows
- Nairne
- Oakbank
- Stirling
- Strathalbyn
- Woodside
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Mount Barker, SA
30+
Average cost per session
$130
Counsellors in Mount Barker, SA who prioritize treating:
87% | Anxiety |
77% | Self Esteem |
77% | Stress |
74% | Depression |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | Coping Skills |
65% | Relationship Issues |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
73% | Bupa |
73% | NDIS |
53% | Other |
How Counsellors in Mount Barker, SA see their clients
84% | In Person and Online | |
16% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
88% | Female | |
9% | Male | |
3% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Mount Barker?
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.