Counselling in Plympton, SA
![Photo of Amber Chapman - Amber Chapman, ACA-L2, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d1d9f13-a274-4896-a6d6-e3de5950fac0/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a registered Psychotherapist with the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) and am accredited with the International Holistic Medicine Practitioners (IPHM). Using integrative approaches I often incorporate talking therapy with embodiment, creative and experiential practices. I am also the founder of The Business Therapist, providing complete business reviews and consulting/counselling for owners of small to medium and family businesses.
I am a registered Psychotherapist with the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) and am accredited with the International Holistic Medicine Practitioners (IPHM). Using integrative approaches I often incorporate talking therapy with embodiment, creative and experiential practices. I am also the founder of The Business Therapist, providing complete business reviews and consulting/counselling for owners of small to medium and family businesses.
![Photo of Valda Burleigh, MA, PACFA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d672a35-68ce-4853-b4cd-d79c7fe487db/2/320x400.jpeg)
Whatever the issue, my first aim is to create a safe environment for clients to talk, and for them to feel they are being heard and understood. Trauma survivors may grapple with debilitating symptoms such as hyper-vigilance, and emotional dysregulation, seeking to regain a sense of safety and control. A struggling couple may strive to rebuild trust, connection, teamwork, and restore intimacy in their relationship. Grieving individuals may require support in navigating grief and adjusting to life after loss. Those battling anxiety and stress may seek strategies to manage overwhelming emotions and be more at ease with self and life.
Whatever the issue, my first aim is to create a safe environment for clients to talk, and for them to feel they are being heard and understood. Trauma survivors may grapple with debilitating symptoms such as hyper-vigilance, and emotional dysregulation, seeking to regain a sense of safety and control. A struggling couple may strive to rebuild trust, connection, teamwork, and restore intimacy in their relationship. Grieving individuals may require support in navigating grief and adjusting to life after loss. Those battling anxiety and stress may seek strategies to manage overwhelming emotions and be more at ease with self and life.
![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.
![Photo of Stephanie Hirst, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0733afe2-2bfe-46a1-9b06-d892f4d7a28e/1/320x400.jpeg)
My passion as a Psychologist is helping individuals with various concerns, such as Eating Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, anger management, self-esteem/confidence issues, or individuals who are going through large life changes, be able to overcome their difficulties and achieve their therapeutic outcomes. I support people aged 8 years to 60 years of age. I have a warm and empathetic approach, with a focus on creating an environment where a person can learn about themselves, develop their skills to manage their mental health and wellbeing, and be empowered to create change in their lives.
My passion as a Psychologist is helping individuals with various concerns, such as Eating Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, anger management, self-esteem/confidence issues, or individuals who are going through large life changes, be able to overcome their difficulties and achieve their therapeutic outcomes. I support people aged 8 years to 60 years of age. I have a warm and empathetic approach, with a focus on creating an environment where a person can learn about themselves, develop their skills to manage their mental health and wellbeing, and be empowered to create change in their lives.
![Photo of Helen Billows, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21eb1dac-aae7-43cb-b2aa-b3e376d87958/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a trauma-focussed psychologist with advanced training in Eye-Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR); I am accredited by the EMDR Association of Australia as both a practitioner and supervisor for EMDR therapy, and thus you can have confidence in the quality of service you get from me! I am a therapist with deep care, warmth, respect and hope for everyone I work with. I am passionate about going beyond helping you simply cope with your difficulties, and rather, want to assist you in addressing the underlying issues and traumas that contribute. My ultimate goal is to help you genuinely heal, recover, grow and thrive.
I am a trauma-focussed psychologist with advanced training in Eye-Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR); I am accredited by the EMDR Association of Australia as both a practitioner and supervisor for EMDR therapy, and thus you can have confidence in the quality of service you get from me! I am a therapist with deep care, warmth, respect and hope for everyone I work with. I am passionate about going beyond helping you simply cope with your difficulties, and rather, want to assist you in addressing the underlying issues and traumas that contribute. My ultimate goal is to help you genuinely heal, recover, grow and thrive.
![Photo of Kerry Ann Johnson - True Counselling Relationship Counselling, ACA-L2, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0996652b-a204-4884-b2d4-bfe81da2356e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kerry is an experienced and skilled counsellor who has been supporting couples of varied ages through general, more complex, and diverse issues. Kerry has worked in a range of sectors including not for profit organisations, schools and now in private practice and is registered with the Australian Counselling Association L2. Through her expertise she offers therapeutic services to guide and support couples to develop strategies and skills to build and understand your inner world as a couple. Working from a gentle, client-centred approach, she works collaboratively with each couple to ensure the best outcomes are reached.
Kerry is an experienced and skilled counsellor who has been supporting couples of varied ages through general, more complex, and diverse issues. Kerry has worked in a range of sectors including not for profit organisations, schools and now in private practice and is registered with the Australian Counselling Association L2. Through her expertise she offers therapeutic services to guide and support couples to develop strategies and skills to build and understand your inner world as a couple. Working from a gentle, client-centred approach, she works collaboratively with each couple to ensure the best outcomes are reached.
![Photo of Daniel Haebich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/91f0ddac-d596-455e-bfd5-a066d15b5670/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am Mental Health Social Worker accredited with the Australian Association of Social Workers with over 16 years of experience providing therapy and counselling to people experiencing mental health difficulties. I support both adolescents and adults to explore and work through a range of difficulties, for example: anxiety, depression, excessive anger, guilt, psychological trauma, grief and loss and relationship difficulties. Committed to providing a safe, confidential, and contained place to enable people to explore their inner world, my goal is to help people to resolve or better manage their problems and achieve self-acceptance.
I am Mental Health Social Worker accredited with the Australian Association of Social Workers with over 16 years of experience providing therapy and counselling to people experiencing mental health difficulties. I support both adolescents and adults to explore and work through a range of difficulties, for example: anxiety, depression, excessive anger, guilt, psychological trauma, grief and loss and relationship difficulties. Committed to providing a safe, confidential, and contained place to enable people to explore their inner world, my goal is to help people to resolve or better manage their problems and achieve self-acceptance.
![Photo of Dr Tick Zweck, PhD, PACFA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9fe0226-db97-4da1-bce5-275f4ee78111/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you're considering therapy you're likely entertaining the possibility of change! Many clients have a sense of feeling 'stuck' - that what they've been doing isn't sustainable - old coping/survival strategies aren't workable and use up valuable energy, e.g.. avoidance of/distracting from/suppressing/whiteknuckling/ruminating on: thoughts, emotions, bodily sensations, urges, images, memories. These maintain negative cycles, keep our emotional brain vigilant to 'threat' and our nervous system mobilised in a stress response. What if we could imagine a future we'd like to participate in, regardless of what's showing up in the present?
If you're considering therapy you're likely entertaining the possibility of change! Many clients have a sense of feeling 'stuck' - that what they've been doing isn't sustainable - old coping/survival strategies aren't workable and use up valuable energy, e.g.. avoidance of/distracting from/suppressing/whiteknuckling/ruminating on: thoughts, emotions, bodily sensations, urges, images, memories. These maintain negative cycles, keep our emotional brain vigilant to 'threat' and our nervous system mobilised in a stress response. What if we could imagine a future we'd like to participate in, regardless of what's showing up in the present?
![Photo of Tim Lindeberg, MA, ACA-L2, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11acdc79-3445-43ed-bb64-01c57506121a/2/320x400.png)
Tim Lindeberg
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Plympton, SA 5038 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
For many years, I experienced the worst of what anxiety had to offer. I now use my experience to help others navigate towards a life of peace, free from debilitating anxiety. Specialising in anxiety-related issues, I firmly believe that those who have conquered their own struggle are best equipped to guide others through similar challenges. In our collaboration, we'll form a dynamic team, dedicated to unlocking your true potential and realising the person you were always meant to be. Through psychotherapy consultations conducted online via Zoom, I offer personalised guidance tailored to your unique needs and circumstances.
For many years, I experienced the worst of what anxiety had to offer. I now use my experience to help others navigate towards a life of peace, free from debilitating anxiety. Specialising in anxiety-related issues, I firmly believe that those who have conquered their own struggle are best equipped to guide others through similar challenges. In our collaboration, we'll form a dynamic team, dedicated to unlocking your true potential and realising the person you were always meant to be. Through psychotherapy consultations conducted online via Zoom, I offer personalised guidance tailored to your unique needs and circumstances.
![Photo of Helen Birch, ACA-L2, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8dbd46b-896f-4655-8354-ee093436e94b/1/320x400.jpeg)
One of Helen’s top priorities is providing a safe and relaxed counselling environment, that enables her clients to feel at ease when sharing their challenges. Helen is an exceptional listener, and through collaborative exploration of the client’s past and present experiences, she aims to bring fresh clarity and awareness, encouraging her clients to explore different perspectives and set new goals. Helen uses a client-centred, intergrative approach, with a deep understanding of the effects of trauma on a person’s life.
One of Helen’s top priorities is providing a safe and relaxed counselling environment, that enables her clients to feel at ease when sharing their challenges. Helen is an exceptional listener, and through collaborative exploration of the client’s past and present experiences, she aims to bring fresh clarity and awareness, encouraging her clients to explore different perspectives and set new goals. Helen uses a client-centred, intergrative approach, with a deep understanding of the effects of trauma on a person’s life.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Khodadad Mikhchi - EMDR Adelaide, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a30f4bae-97b9-452e-b541-a2be9d94a66c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Since 2018, I have been an EMDR Therapy training facilitator and accredited consultant with the highest level of training: Intensive Master Class. I completed my EMDR Therapy training with the EMDR Institute, then I committed to travelling for a range of overseas-based specialised EMDR training. I have received training and supervision from psychologists who are the leaders in the field of assessment and treatment of trauma, complex trauma and dissociative disorders. I have over 25 years of extensive experience offshore and onshore within the community mental health and corporate sectors.
Since 2018, I have been an EMDR Therapy training facilitator and accredited consultant with the highest level of training: Intensive Master Class. I completed my EMDR Therapy training with the EMDR Institute, then I committed to travelling for a range of overseas-based specialised EMDR training. I have received training and supervision from psychologists who are the leaders in the field of assessment and treatment of trauma, complex trauma and dissociative disorders. I have over 25 years of extensive experience offshore and onshore within the community mental health and corporate sectors.
![Photo of Beth Gaskin, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f3a945a-c6e1-4949-9622-12383185ee01/2/320x400.jpeg)
Beth Gaskin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Novar Gardens, SA 5040
I have over 20 years of experience working with people experiencing a range of difficulties. My experience has taught me that often we develop unconscious ways of making sense of the world, our relationships and how we see ourselves from a very early age. These thoughts and feelings are often not accessible to our conscious mind and making sense of why we struggle so much can be really difficult. You may have tried a range of things in the past that have not really helped or you may not even know where to start.
I have over 20 years of experience working with people experiencing a range of difficulties. My experience has taught me that often we develop unconscious ways of making sense of the world, our relationships and how we see ourselves from a very early age. These thoughts and feelings are often not accessible to our conscious mind and making sense of why we struggle so much can be really difficult. You may have tried a range of things in the past that have not really helped or you may not even know where to start.
![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.
![Photo of Monika Kolta - Neurospa Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/912b7b31-c8ca-4820-9d45-3ec0a47f95e9/2/320x400.jpeg)
We work with children, adolescents and adults utilising evidence based therapies. Our practice focuses on the therapeutic relationship between the psychologist and the client to ensure the client grows beyond any life changes such as: Managing everyday anxieties and stressors, Life adjustments and transition, Grief and loss, Self-esteem issues, Isolation and loneliness, Lack of confidence & Emotional regulation. Monika strongly believes in providing a warm, comfortable and empathetic environment to support clients to create a meaningful and fulfilling life.
We work with children, adolescents and adults utilising evidence based therapies. Our practice focuses on the therapeutic relationship between the psychologist and the client to ensure the client grows beyond any life changes such as: Managing everyday anxieties and stressors, Life adjustments and transition, Grief and loss, Self-esteem issues, Isolation and loneliness, Lack of confidence & Emotional regulation. Monika strongly believes in providing a warm, comfortable and empathetic environment to support clients to create a meaningful and fulfilling life.
![Photo of Susan Lister, ACA-L1, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19d0788e-e165-4993-9b62-1391c8c1b0cb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I'm Susan, a Holistic Counsellor and Life Coach. If you're stuck in repetitive patterns, feeling unfulfilled, or wanting passion and purpose, I'm here to help. Together, we'll uncover hidden traumas, break through blocks, and support your journey towards your most authentic self. Let's clear the path to your true potential and transform your life with confidence and clarity. Ready to step into the best version of YOU? Let's begin this empowering journey together.
Hi, I'm Susan, a Holistic Counsellor and Life Coach. If you're stuck in repetitive patterns, feeling unfulfilled, or wanting passion and purpose, I'm here to help. Together, we'll uncover hidden traumas, break through blocks, and support your journey towards your most authentic self. Let's clear the path to your true potential and transform your life with confidence and clarity. Ready to step into the best version of YOU? Let's begin this empowering journey together.
![Photo of Priya Rajan, AMHSW, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea7dd24e-5ed0-4493-b2e8-8c561ab359f0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Empowering minds, one conversation at a time. For someone seeking support for mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma-related issues or simply looking for personal growth opportunities in therapy, I am here to walk alongside with my clients through collaboratively created personalised treatment plans tailored to each person's unique strengths, needs and goals. My focus is to delve deeper into the underlying issues, explore past experiences and unconscious patterns that may be contributing to an individual's current struggles and gain valuable insights that facilitate healing and personal growth.
Empowering minds, one conversation at a time. For someone seeking support for mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma-related issues or simply looking for personal growth opportunities in therapy, I am here to walk alongside with my clients through collaboratively created personalised treatment plans tailored to each person's unique strengths, needs and goals. My focus is to delve deeper into the underlying issues, explore past experiences and unconscious patterns that may be contributing to an individual's current struggles and gain valuable insights that facilitate healing and personal growth.
![Photo of Anqi Fu, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ef4aa694-d7a1-4d19-a58f-c7c09e7aac7c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bilingual speech pathologist fluent in Mandarin & English. Specialized services for speech, language, & communication challenges. Tailored interventions for articulation, phonological disorders, language delays & communication difficulties. Empowering clients to reach their potential. Comfortable & inclusive environment. Stay updated with latest advancements. Book now for comprehensive bilingual speech pathology services.
Bilingual speech pathologist fluent in Mandarin & English. Specialized services for speech, language, & communication challenges. Tailored interventions for articulation, phonological disorders, language delays & communication difficulties. Empowering clients to reach their potential. Comfortable & inclusive environment. Stay updated with latest advancements. Book now for comprehensive bilingual speech pathology services.
![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 Mary Stompe - Mary Stompe, Halech Holistic Health, PACFA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af8494ff-b973-45d7-b66d-d608e9dc05d1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you unhappy or dissatisfied in your career or personal life? Do you have low self-esteem or low confidence? Do you compare yourself to others, constantly feeling like you're not good enough? Are you navigating a major life change, feeling lost and seeking to regain a sense of meaning and purpose in your life? Perhaps you’ve tried therapy before and are seeking a more holistic alternative to the traditional clinical approach. I offer a compassionate, non-judgemental space for you to express yourself freely and explore your concerns in order to gain self-awareness, knowledge and skills to enhance your wellbeing and quality of life
Are you unhappy or dissatisfied in your career or personal life? Do you have low self-esteem or low confidence? Do you compare yourself to others, constantly feeling like you're not good enough? Are you navigating a major life change, feeling lost and seeking to regain a sense of meaning and purpose in your life? Perhaps you’ve tried therapy before and are seeking a more holistic alternative to the traditional clinical approach. I offer a compassionate, non-judgemental space for you to express yourself freely and explore your concerns in order to gain self-awareness, knowledge and skills to enhance your wellbeing and quality of life
![Photo of Jo Scott, MA, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46ddebf6-f73f-4d38-adfb-4abcf69fd45e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with girls and women facing overwhelming situations that result in emotional distress. I specialise in working with the complex issues of chronic health conditions (e.g. endometriosis, PCOS, adenomyosis, cancer), chronic pain, trauma, and being childless not by choice (childlessness). I help women overcome isolation, loneliness, grief, loss of identity, self-worth issues, and negative body image associated with these conditions. The goal being to find joy and a better quality of life given the new reality. To read more please visit my website.
I work with girls and women facing overwhelming situations that result in emotional distress. I specialise in working with the complex issues of chronic health conditions (e.g. endometriosis, PCOS, adenomyosis, cancer), chronic pain, trauma, and being childless not by choice (childlessness). I help women overcome isolation, loneliness, grief, loss of identity, self-worth issues, and negative body image associated with these conditions. The goal being to find joy and a better quality of life given the new reality. To read more please visit my website.
See more therapy options for Plympton
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Plympton, SA
10+
Average cost per session
$149
Counsellors in Plympton, SA who prioritize treating:
90% | Anxiety |
90% | Stress |
80% | Relationship Issues |
80% | Depression |
70% | Coping Skills |
70% | Self Esteem |
60% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
80% | Bupa |
80% | Police Health |
60% | Other |
How Counsellors in Plympton, SA see their clients
90% | In Person and Online | |
10% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
20% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Plympton?
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.