Counselling in Halls Gap, VIC
![Photo of Rebecca Biggs - RB Psychology , PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a14001dd-5812-4d7f-8e5e-10285f336d0a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi. I'm Rebecca. I am a registered psychologist with extensive experience in a variety of settings, including the mental health sector, non-profit organisations and government departments. I have a passion for working with youth and have experience in working with people with a broad range of mental health and wellbeing issues, including complex trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, problem behaviours and identity issues.
Hi. I'm Rebecca. I am a registered psychologist with extensive experience in a variety of settings, including the mental health sector, non-profit organisations and government departments. I have a passion for working with youth and have experience in working with people with a broad range of mental health and wellbeing issues, including complex trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, problem behaviours and identity issues.
![Photo of Karen Yvette Ceccon - Ararat Wellness Centre, ACA-L4, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a0c2dfb-c0d8-43af-bbfb-d65c19760a56/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a practising counsellor with a focus on ADHD/ASD, positive behavioural therapy, anxiety and depression. I operate a private, fully-accessible counselling and therapy space. Experienced in providing grief and loss counselling and trained to provide psychological First Aid for trauma. Fully registered NDIS provider for Counselling and Behavioural Support for all NDIS participants (aged 8 years +). Private and EAP clients also accepted.
I am a practising counsellor with a focus on ADHD/ASD, positive behavioural therapy, anxiety and depression. I operate a private, fully-accessible counselling and therapy space. Experienced in providing grief and loss counselling and trained to provide psychological First Aid for trauma. Fully registered NDIS provider for Counselling and Behavioural Support for all NDIS participants (aged 8 years +). Private and EAP clients also accepted.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Rjurik Davidson - Rjurik Davidson, PhD, PACFA, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e95f18e2-62b2-4fd8-83a2-2410a63e881a/1/320x400.png)
We don't just want to deal wth our issues, our grief, our trauma, our troubled relationships, our self-criticism or self-sabotage. We want to live a life of meaning and authenticity, to experience joy and happiness and contentment. Therapy and coaching is about living your life authentically: becoming their person you want to become. Living the life you want to live. Reaching you goals. Realising your dreams.
We don't just want to deal wth our issues, our grief, our trauma, our troubled relationships, our self-criticism or self-sabotage. We want to live a life of meaning and authenticity, to experience joy and happiness and contentment. Therapy and coaching is about living your life authentically: becoming their person you want to become. Living the life you want to live. Reaching you goals. Realising your dreams.
![Photo of Fiona Collison - Fiona Collison - Ensouled Therapy, MC, PACFA, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0614804-fe6f-47fe-9465-c897e84f9e9a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Fiona Collison - Ensouled Therapy
Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
Verified Verified
Castlemaine, VIC 3450
I am an integrative counsellor and psychotherapist who recognises the deep wounding and fragmentation inflicted on our soul, our bodies and our minds by the modern world. I support clients who are feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, in grief, lost or alone in their struggles and support their reconnection back to the deepest, most true versions of themselves.
I am an integrative counsellor and psychotherapist who recognises the deep wounding and fragmentation inflicted on our soul, our bodies and our minds by the modern world. I support clients who are feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, in grief, lost or alone in their struggles and support their reconnection back to the deepest, most true versions of themselves.
![Photo of Stacey O'Neil, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9e955eb-2c41-42ee-a52a-4a50a72529f3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I'm Stacey and I am passionate about supporting people to work through challenges, whether these are current or historical. If you are experiencing difficulties and want to manage these in a different way, or maybe you would like to try and understand yourself better in order to make change, then please reach out to discuss your needs. You may just want someone to see and hear you - I passionately believe in creating a safe space for people. Therapy can provide the opportunity for exploration and change.
Hi, I'm Stacey and I am passionate about supporting people to work through challenges, whether these are current or historical. If you are experiencing difficulties and want to manage these in a different way, or maybe you would like to try and understand yourself better in order to make change, then please reach out to discuss your needs. You may just want someone to see and hear you - I passionately believe in creating a safe space for people. Therapy can provide the opportunity for exploration and change.
![Photo of Kim Revell, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c50d11a-9343-40c5-a01d-66831a2e3678/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling that talk therapies aren’t quite getting to the heart of the problem? Are you or your kids experiencing big emotions that appear out of nowhere and can’t quite be explained by words? Do your kids need help, but encouraging them to attend sessions has turned into a weekly carpark battle? Do you want a therapist who can work creatively with your family rather than answering questions like a textbook? Do you wish therapy could just simply feel easier?
Are you feeling that talk therapies aren’t quite getting to the heart of the problem? Are you or your kids experiencing big emotions that appear out of nowhere and can’t quite be explained by words? Do your kids need help, but encouraging them to attend sessions has turned into a weekly carpark battle? Do you want a therapist who can work creatively with your family rather than answering questions like a textbook? Do you wish therapy could just simply feel easier?
![Photo of Marie Mirbach (The Present Place), ACA-L2, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87e5434c-89ab-4814-80b6-a00ea8d8190d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marie Mirbach (The Present Place)
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Daylesford, VIC 3460
Hi there, I’m Marie and I love creating spaces for people to realise the patterns of their own minds and work towards feeling more alive and connected. As an integrative psychotherapist I work with couples and individuals in a way that honours your uniqueness as well as recognises the circumstances shaping your life. My approach is warm, inquisitive and creative and above all else I value collaborating with you to ensure we are creating processes that let you feel safe, inspired and closer to your most authentic and empowered self. I specialise in eating disorders, ASD, gender/identity and relationship problems.
Hi there, I’m Marie and I love creating spaces for people to realise the patterns of their own minds and work towards feeling more alive and connected. As an integrative psychotherapist I work with couples and individuals in a way that honours your uniqueness as well as recognises the circumstances shaping your life. My approach is warm, inquisitive and creative and above all else I value collaborating with you to ensure we are creating processes that let you feel safe, inspired and closer to your most authentic and empowered self. I specialise in eating disorders, ASD, gender/identity and relationship problems.
![Photo of Gabrielle Bibby, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b79621a-3121-4dc4-b989-4ae4dd4d9ea4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you in midlife and thinking "is this really all there is?" It's more common than you think and especially around 40 or 50+. We hit the big milestones of supposedly having life sorted but all you feel is stuck or at least lacking in joy or direction and slowly starting to panic that life is slipping away. Whatever the thoughts are if they persist unaddressed, they just fester inside. We all know that feeling of stuffing thoughts and feelings down because they are too uncomfortable. Maybe soothing them with food, alcohol or doomscrolling. Life can get a lot better by talking and sharing what's going on for you deep down.
Are you in midlife and thinking "is this really all there is?" It's more common than you think and especially around 40 or 50+. We hit the big milestones of supposedly having life sorted but all you feel is stuck or at least lacking in joy or direction and slowly starting to panic that life is slipping away. Whatever the thoughts are if they persist unaddressed, they just fester inside. We all know that feeling of stuffing thoughts and feelings down because they are too uncomfortable. Maybe soothing them with food, alcohol or doomscrolling. Life can get a lot better by talking and sharing what's going on for you deep down.
![Photo of Alexandra M Crocker - MyTimeWithAlex, MC, ACA-L4, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31268b6f-7845-41c5-aae6-a98b8848516e/1/320x400.jpeg)
MyTimeWithAlex
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Castlemaine, VIC 3450
Waitlist for new clients
While I have 20 years’ experience working therapeutically with adults, children, adolescents & their families who have experienced trauma, this is more than just a job for me. I am a deeply philosophical & spiritual person, & am not afraid to contemplate the big questions or to go to dark places with you, so you don’t feel alone. I am deeply empathic, warm & kind and have this way of just being with you - no matter how, or where you are. I am deeply respectful, practical & expressive (I will laugh a lot!) & hold a strong vision for my clients, so we can work towards your goals & dreams, even if it feels dangerous to hope for more.
While I have 20 years’ experience working therapeutically with adults, children, adolescents & their families who have experienced trauma, this is more than just a job for me. I am a deeply philosophical & spiritual person, & am not afraid to contemplate the big questions or to go to dark places with you, so you don’t feel alone. I am deeply empathic, warm & kind and have this way of just being with you - no matter how, or where you are. I am deeply respectful, practical & expressive (I will laugh a lot!) & hold a strong vision for my clients, so we can work towards your goals & dreams, even if it feels dangerous to hope for more.
![Photo of Deirdre Rolfe - CounsellorOnCall, ACA-L4, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c313131-f29d-4d7c-a031-8403b83ce1b6/1/320x400.jpeg)
I offer a solution focused, empowered, approach for the treatment of childhood trauma, Cluster B abuse recovery (Narcissistic, Psychopathy), relationship breakups, unresolved grief, addictions or any challenges that leave you feeling triggered, lost or stuck .I have a lived trauma experience, use Jungian psychology , EMDR, Flash, Havening, NLP, DBT, ACT ,CBT, Symbols, metaphors and rituals toward evidence based, existential, somatic whole person outcomes. I have over 25 years experience in private practise and as a Head Therapist at two health facilities.I am a level 4 Supervisor, author and creator of Symbols, Metaphors & rituals.
I offer a solution focused, empowered, approach for the treatment of childhood trauma, Cluster B abuse recovery (Narcissistic, Psychopathy), relationship breakups, unresolved grief, addictions or any challenges that leave you feeling triggered, lost or stuck .I have a lived trauma experience, use Jungian psychology , EMDR, Flash, Havening, NLP, DBT, ACT ,CBT, Symbols, metaphors and rituals toward evidence based, existential, somatic whole person outcomes. I have over 25 years experience in private practise and as a Head Therapist at two health facilities.I am a level 4 Supervisor, author and creator of Symbols, Metaphors & rituals.
![Photo of Kristian Holth - Holth Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e17233b-0fb8-4c00-bcc2-364fbd7c4fa4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kristian is passionate about empowering clients to navigate life’s challenges and to ultimately live a meaningful life. He helps neurotypical and neurodiverse adolescents and adults with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, life adjustment, chronic health conditions, and issues particularly impactful for minority groups. He also has experience working with individuals with functional neurological disorders, epilepsy, acquired brain injury and other neurological conditions.
Kristian is passionate about empowering clients to navigate life’s challenges and to ultimately live a meaningful life. He helps neurotypical and neurodiverse adolescents and adults with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, life adjustment, chronic health conditions, and issues particularly impactful for minority groups. He also has experience working with individuals with functional neurological disorders, epilepsy, acquired brain injury and other neurological conditions.
![Photo of Caralyn Collins - Guiding Steps, PsychD, ACA-L1, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25df8a2c-2f65-4871-962d-188c6b4d0fcf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I am Caralyn, a Bendigo-based therapeutic counsellor and coach. I truly believe everyone has their own unique capabilities and, with the right level of support, can achieve whatever is important to them through counselling. Guiding Steps is unique in approach incorporating coaching into the counselling plan to ensure the person has the right level of support to learn, implement and build skills they identify during their therapy sessions. I am passionate about tailoring the counselling support to the person’s needs and preferences. My motto is “support is person-first, person-directed and meaningful to them”.
Hi, I am Caralyn, a Bendigo-based therapeutic counsellor and coach. I truly believe everyone has their own unique capabilities and, with the right level of support, can achieve whatever is important to them through counselling. Guiding Steps is unique in approach incorporating coaching into the counselling plan to ensure the person has the right level of support to learn, implement and build skills they identify during their therapy sessions. I am passionate about tailoring the counselling support to the person’s needs and preferences. My motto is “support is person-first, person-directed and meaningful to them”.
![Photo of Kelly Celeste Nadarajan - KIT Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cad2fc6a-3f52-4ed0-8db4-654b5c55a04c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Kelly. I am a registered psychologist practicing as a clinical psychology registrar. Within my practice at KIT Psychology, I offer therapeutic, evidence-based interventions to young people and adults struggling with their mental health and wellbeing. I have a special interest in using creative therapies as an adjunct to traditional talk-therapies.
Hello, my name is Kelly. I am a registered psychologist practicing as a clinical psychology registrar. Within my practice at KIT Psychology, I offer therapeutic, evidence-based interventions to young people and adults struggling with their mental health and wellbeing. I have a special interest in using creative therapies as an adjunct to traditional talk-therapies.
![Photo of Sue Balkin-Mitchell, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da5804e3-2f9a-450e-ba14-dc5c768c063b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sue Balkin-Mitchell
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Ballarat Central, VIC 3350
With years of diverse experience, I navigate a wide array of psychological concerns. Whether your issue is acute or prolonged, I provide an empathic, and collaborative approach to addressing your needs and goals. I utilise a range of evidence-based tools and therapies to address needs as appropriate, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR). Being acutely aware that every client is unique, I take great care to tailor approaches to each clients personality and thinking style.
With years of diverse experience, I navigate a wide array of psychological concerns. Whether your issue is acute or prolonged, I provide an empathic, and collaborative approach to addressing your needs and goals. I utilise a range of evidence-based tools and therapies to address needs as appropriate, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR). Being acutely aware that every client is unique, I take great care to tailor approaches to each clients personality and thinking style.
![Photo of Sylvia Charlton, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02eca51c-370b-45e0-8406-617753a8196d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sylvia Charlton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bendigo, VIC 3550
Do you experience the impact of past trauma in your day to day life? Do you experience flashbacks, nightmares, or are triggered by certain things associated with memories from events that happened in the past? I can help you to understand your autonomic nervous system and why you experience defensive reactions such as fight, flight and freeze in certain situations long after the traumatic event happened. I can help you to recognise when the triggers impact your nervous system and your reaction to them. We can work towards returning the trauma to the past where it belongs, and restore your felt sense of safety.
Do you experience the impact of past trauma in your day to day life? Do you experience flashbacks, nightmares, or are triggered by certain things associated with memories from events that happened in the past? I can help you to understand your autonomic nervous system and why you experience defensive reactions such as fight, flight and freeze in certain situations long after the traumatic event happened. I can help you to recognise when the triggers impact your nervous system and your reaction to them. We can work towards returning the trauma to the past where it belongs, and restore your felt sense of safety.
![Photo of Lauren Wright, MA, ACA-L3, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fce2ead4-31d1-41c7-90cb-fd2790536065/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about supporting people who have experienced trauma. I am a believer that trauma comes in all different shapes and sizes, and that counselling can support someone to ease the impacts of trauma and retake control of their lives. I enjoy working with people from all different stages of life to find a common ground of trust and support.
I am passionate about supporting people who have experienced trauma. I am a believer that trauma comes in all different shapes and sizes, and that counselling can support someone to ease the impacts of trauma and retake control of their lives. I enjoy working with people from all different stages of life to find a common ground of trust and support.
![Photo of Portia Kambasha, MSc](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a204bc1e-e414-4c8b-a475-78b03ffa58e9/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have 20 years experience with complex mental health issues across the age spectrum. I offer a kind, empathetic service to families and individuals using my skills as a family therapist and mental health clinician. I welcome individuals and families who represent marginalised communities, (neurodiverse, LGBTQIA, culturally diverse, and anyone who has ever been “othered”) and provide a service that is inclusive and affirming whilst utilising an anti racist and decolonized lens.
I have 20 years experience with complex mental health issues across the age spectrum. I offer a kind, empathetic service to families and individuals using my skills as a family therapist and mental health clinician. I welcome individuals and families who represent marginalised communities, (neurodiverse, LGBTQIA, culturally diverse, and anyone who has ever been “othered”) and provide a service that is inclusive and affirming whilst utilising an anti racist and decolonized lens.
![Photo of Jemma Mathers - Bloom Well-being, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dac61bad-392e-49d3-8a0c-ea88544aa6db/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bloom Well-being
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Creswick, VIC 3363
Do you struggle with relationships, with yourself and others? Maybe you find it hard to connect with your emotions or even your body? We value our clients as the expert of their lives, and acknowledge that reaching our for extra support isn't always easy. But our team have spent their entire careers dedicated to ongoing learning to ensure the people who enter our space feel seen, heard and believed. We specialise in supporting those who have experienced difficult childhoods or been exposed to abuse or neglect (physical or emotional).
Do you struggle with relationships, with yourself and others? Maybe you find it hard to connect with your emotions or even your body? We value our clients as the expert of their lives, and acknowledge that reaching our for extra support isn't always easy. But our team have spent their entire careers dedicated to ongoing learning to ensure the people who enter our space feel seen, heard and believed. We specialise in supporting those who have experienced difficult childhoods or been exposed to abuse or neglect (physical or emotional).
![Photo of Ali Burley, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73e66830-ac79-465b-8ddd-c986c2575fb2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Life can be exhilarating and scary at the same time. Figuring out what’s important to us and how to get it can be tricky. I particularly love working with 15-25 year olds and anyone who still feels like a big kid..so let’s talk...0402437406. Want to clarify how you got to be who you are? Need help to accept your likeable and not so likeable self? Want to explore your identity and establish your independence? Relationships not going the way you would like?
Life can be exhilarating and scary at the same time. Figuring out what’s important to us and how to get it can be tricky. I particularly love working with 15-25 year olds and anyone who still feels like a big kid..so let’s talk...0402437406. Want to clarify how you got to be who you are? Need help to accept your likeable and not so likeable self? Want to explore your identity and establish your independence? Relationships not going the way you would like?
![Photo of Harrison Carter - Get Psych'd Youth Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b239e494-9c4c-4ed8-bd50-87d33151d24f/2/320x400.png)
At Get Psych'd we're all about reaching and enriching the lives of young people. Get Psych'd is a youth and young adults psychology practice in Bendigo supporting young people to overcome challenges and build a healthy mindset.
At Get Psych'd we're all about reaching and enriching the lives of young people. Get Psych'd is a youth and young adults psychology practice in Bendigo supporting young people to overcome challenges and build a healthy mindset.
See more therapy options for Halls Gap
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Halls Gap, VIC
< 10
Counsellors in Halls Gap, VIC who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Behavioural Issues |
50% | Relationship Issues |
50% | Depression |
50% | ADHD |
50% | Domestic Abuse |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
How Counsellors in Halls Gap, VIC see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Halls Gap?
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.