Counselling in Maidstone, VIC
![Photo of Cass Kozulin, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66d49fcb-80a9-4b45-b7a3-335506ffcc04/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi I'm Cass! I am passionate about working with people to help create a happier and more fulfilled life. I believe that everyone has the potential create positive change despite adversity; we just need the tools to be able do so.
Hi I'm Cass! I am passionate about working with people to help create a happier and more fulfilled life. I believe that everyone has the potential create positive change despite adversity; we just need the tools to be able do so.
![Photo of Hanife Guducu - Moonee Ponds Clinical Psychology, PsychD, MACPA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ceb9992f-2713-4960-bf94-78130cf30f33/3/320x400.jpeg)
Whether your concern is great or small, Moonee Ponds Clinical Psychology will be there by your side to help you understand your situation. Our team of 5 highly experienced psychologists take a compassionate approach using evidence-based therapies.
Whether your concern is great or small, Moonee Ponds Clinical Psychology will be there by your side to help you understand your situation. Our team of 5 highly experienced psychologists take a compassionate approach using evidence-based therapies.
![Photo of Marie Vakakis, MA, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65fc22aa-eaa7-4602-b8e8-2d97d9c58bbc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Feeling worried, overwhelmed, sad, stressed or anxious? Maybe you’re having relationship issues or struggling to get through the day, like you just don't have your regular oomph or energy. Sometimes just getting through the day can seem tough. It’s enough to make anyone feel like curling up on the couch with the dog, Netflix and avoiding facing the day. I recognise how difficult this can be and I am here to help. I am a neurodivergence-affirming, trauma-informed, LGBTIAQ+ affirmative therapist and inclusive of diverse relationship structures.
Feeling worried, overwhelmed, sad, stressed or anxious? Maybe you’re having relationship issues or struggling to get through the day, like you just don't have your regular oomph or energy. Sometimes just getting through the day can seem tough. It’s enough to make anyone feel like curling up on the couch with the dog, Netflix and avoiding facing the day. I recognise how difficult this can be and I am here to help. I am a neurodivergence-affirming, trauma-informed, LGBTIAQ+ affirmative therapist and inclusive of diverse relationship structures.
![Photo of Natalie Susan Burfurd - Heart and Hope Counselling, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fbe31ce-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Heart and Hope Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Maidstone, VIC 3012
I provide counselling, therapy and social work services in both the Newport and Footscray areas. I provide supportive, empathic and flexible responses to individual needs, taking the body, mind and soul into consideration. I have over twenty years of general counselling experience and have particular expertise in grief and loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, mental health issues and working with many other concerns. I am passionate about holding the hope and working from the heart as well as utilising diverse knowledge and skills. It is important to me that counselling is accessible and affordable to people who need it.
I provide counselling, therapy and social work services in both the Newport and Footscray areas. I provide supportive, empathic and flexible responses to individual needs, taking the body, mind and soul into consideration. I have over twenty years of general counselling experience and have particular expertise in grief and loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, mental health issues and working with many other concerns. I am passionate about holding the hope and working from the heart as well as utilising diverse knowledge and skills. It is important to me that counselling is accessible and affordable to people who need it.
![Photo of Vanessa Del Valle - Vanessa Del Valle from Wellness & Co., MA, PACFA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce8e08f9-c5dd-4fbb-8a5d-d5a89e46bd8d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Vanessa Del Valle from Wellness & Co.
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Maidstone, VIC 3012
Imagine feeling overwhelmed, lonely, unsupported, burdened by grief or mental health issues. These challenges can leave you feeling lost and stuck in your current circumstances. The goal is to find hope, purpose, and a healthier life. Vanessa Del Valle at Wellness & Co understands these struggles and provides the support and guidance needed to navigate these challenges and emerge stronger.
Imagine feeling overwhelmed, lonely, unsupported, burdened by grief or mental health issues. These challenges can leave you feeling lost and stuck in your current circumstances. The goal is to find hope, purpose, and a healthier life. Vanessa Del Valle at Wellness & Co understands these struggles and provides the support and guidance needed to navigate these challenges and emerge stronger.
![Photo of Tom Trikojus, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9250b349-b0ca-405f-8f0c-b5449ac233b5/1/320x400.jpeg)
I’ve been working as a psychotherapist, counsellor and supervisor in private practice in Footscray for 18 years. The vibrancy, diversity and unique qualities of Footscray and the inner western suburbs of Melbourne have always felt like the right fit for my practice. I’ve worked with a diverse range of issues and presentations. As well as supporting people through mental health issues, I’m also interested in helping people develop their capacity for awareness and self-discovery. I have a steadfast commitment to the depth and transformative potential of the therapeutic process.
I’ve been working as a psychotherapist, counsellor and supervisor in private practice in Footscray for 18 years. The vibrancy, diversity and unique qualities of Footscray and the inner western suburbs of Melbourne have always felt like the right fit for my practice. I’ve worked with a diverse range of issues and presentations. As well as supporting people through mental health issues, I’m also interested in helping people develop their capacity for awareness and self-discovery. I have a steadfast commitment to the depth and transformative potential of the therapeutic process.
![Photo of Clarissa Wijaya, ACA-L2, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1bb990e3-8142-4108-a81f-444a7a5ee3a6/2/320x400.jpeg)
As someone who had a lived experience of severe anxiety, I understand that little things can easily overwhelm you. Simple things can be difficult to do without expending so much nervous energy that by the end you feel so drained and exhausted. Sometimes to feel better and in control, or even to overcome, you might simply need a listening ear or someone to guide and empower you to make decisions or simply someone to encourage you on and push through, I may be able to help you with that.
As someone who had a lived experience of severe anxiety, I understand that little things can easily overwhelm you. Simple things can be difficult to do without expending so much nervous energy that by the end you feel so drained and exhausted. Sometimes to feel better and in control, or even to overcome, you might simply need a listening ear or someone to guide and empower you to make decisions or simply someone to encourage you on and push through, I may be able to help you with that.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Renee Hughes, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7683afd-f603-4217-9bb9-753836a70b9a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Parent Infant Mental Health clinician and Family Report Writer with over 20 years experience working in the field. I work mostly with adults experiencing mental health issues and provide a safe space for people to work through their difficulties. My goal is to help people to understand themselves on a deeper level and have better functioning relationships and a happier life! I also write private reports for the Family Court (62G & Child Impact Reports) and can support and coach individuals going through this process.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Parent Infant Mental Health clinician and Family Report Writer with over 20 years experience working in the field. I work mostly with adults experiencing mental health issues and provide a safe space for people to work through their difficulties. My goal is to help people to understand themselves on a deeper level and have better functioning relationships and a happier life! I also write private reports for the Family Court (62G & Child Impact Reports) and can support and coach individuals going through this process.
![Photo of Coby Liew - Registered Psychotherapist, PsychD, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b638441b-774f-4a37-a544-ac42f679d32c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Coby Liew - Registered Psychotherapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsychD, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Yarraville, VIC 3013 (Online Only)
Welcome to my profile! I've dedicated my life to helping people of all ages and backgrounds navigate their way through life's challenges, and I do so with compassion, care, and empathy. I was born in Borneo, identify as gay, and have experience living in different countries and cultures. I offer more than ten years of clinical experience in counselling and psychotherapy, specialising in loss and grief, gender and sexuality, complex trauma and abuse, attachment issues, ASD, ADHD, personality disorders, relationship and intimacy issues, anger management, family conflicts, workplace bullying, and intercultural adjustment issues.
Welcome to my profile! I've dedicated my life to helping people of all ages and backgrounds navigate their way through life's challenges, and I do so with compassion, care, and empathy. I was born in Borneo, identify as gay, and have experience living in different countries and cultures. I offer more than ten years of clinical experience in counselling and psychotherapy, specialising in loss and grief, gender and sexuality, complex trauma and abuse, attachment issues, ASD, ADHD, personality disorders, relationship and intimacy issues, anger management, family conflicts, workplace bullying, and intercultural adjustment issues.
![Photo of Claire Anne Loughran - Seddon Psychology, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86d408c1-ee9a-4c65-95b5-a4cef8ad4057/2/320x400.jpeg)
I focus on a client-centred approach to understand your individual needs and concerns, your values and goals, and what is important to you. I support clients with a range of concerns including anxiety, depression, stress, grief, trauma, eating disorders and body image concerns, and neurodivergence.
I focus on a client-centred approach to understand your individual needs and concerns, your values and goals, and what is important to you. I support clients with a range of concerns including anxiety, depression, stress, grief, trauma, eating disorders and body image concerns, and neurodivergence.
![Photo of Mei Wang, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c1af271-be07-4256-aa27-be470389dead/2/320x400.png)
Based in Melbourne, I am an integrative arts psychotherapist, companioning people of all ages and stages, and from all walks of life, in healing, growth, and coming home to themselves and their inner wisdom. Some common issues we tend to are depression, anxiety, self-development, life transitions, grief, loss, trauma recovery, and spiritual and existential concerns. Drawing from multiple modalities, I practice with an blend of traditional Talk Therapy, Arts Therapy and Dreamwork, with creative and experiential approaches, through a psycho-spiritual lens. I am guided by my clients and their present moment experiences.
Based in Melbourne, I am an integrative arts psychotherapist, companioning people of all ages and stages, and from all walks of life, in healing, growth, and coming home to themselves and their inner wisdom. Some common issues we tend to are depression, anxiety, self-development, life transitions, grief, loss, trauma recovery, and spiritual and existential concerns. Drawing from multiple modalities, I practice with an blend of traditional Talk Therapy, Arts Therapy and Dreamwork, with creative and experiential approaches, through a psycho-spiritual lens. I am guided by my clients and their present moment experiences.
![Photo of Kyo Chung, ACA-L4, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d78a9f91-6c1f-4079-9e81-ea5c4d63cd61/3/320x400.jpeg)
Mental and emotional wellbeing is essential for us to achieve our goals and be the best version of ourselves. Not understanding the functions of our emotions can lead to poor emotional regulation or ineffective communication. This can cause depression, anxiety and interpersonal difficulties. We sometimes develop unhelpful ways to cope with life's challenges. I can help you discover ways to decipher important information about our emotions so that you can learn to use it as a guide map to achieve your goals, and build fulfilling relationships.
Mental and emotional wellbeing is essential for us to achieve our goals and be the best version of ourselves. Not understanding the functions of our emotions can lead to poor emotional regulation or ineffective communication. This can cause depression, anxiety and interpersonal difficulties. We sometimes develop unhelpful ways to cope with life's challenges. I can help you discover ways to decipher important information about our emotions so that you can learn to use it as a guide map to achieve your goals, and build fulfilling relationships.
![Photo of Mikel Moss - Mikel Moss - Healing Stage Counselling Service , MA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44a2c559-e385-4933-8990-47ab25572c35/1/320x400.png)
Mikel Moss - Healing Stage Counselling Service
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
Sunshine, VIC 3020 (Online Only)
I work with people from diverse backgrounds who are learning how to live and thrive with a variety of issues, changes, and challenges in their lives. I primarily work within BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) communities, but I am open and able to work with people outside of this area as well. I utilize talk and creative expression, as a way to assist in areas such as setting goals, gaining a deeper understanding of self, moving through and healing trauma, and much more. Check out my website: healingstagemelb.com
I work with people from diverse backgrounds who are learning how to live and thrive with a variety of issues, changes, and challenges in their lives. I primarily work within BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) communities, but I am open and able to work with people outside of this area as well. I utilize talk and creative expression, as a way to assist in areas such as setting goals, gaining a deeper understanding of self, moving through and healing trauma, and much more. Check out my website: healingstagemelb.com
![Photo of Melissa Boulind - The Psychology and Therapy clinic, Melissa Boulind, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5e1956a-00a5-4533-9f82-53e72e663ac8/1/320x400.jpeg)
The Psychology and Therapy clinic, Melissa Boulind
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Sunshine, VIC 3020 (Online Only)
Melissa has been working in private practice for over 10 years, recognising that individuals need to change and focus on growth, be involved in active decision making and she is passionate about assisting people to make positive lifestyle changes. She has extensive experience working with a variety of psychiatric difficulties, working in hospitals for 5 years (with an acute mental health care unit). She will work closely with you, tailoring your therapy to suit you. She works via Telehealth so you can have therapy on video or by phone - you can see her from the comfort of your own home (or car, or office or garden)- anywhere.
Melissa has been working in private practice for over 10 years, recognising that individuals need to change and focus on growth, be involved in active decision making and she is passionate about assisting people to make positive lifestyle changes. She has extensive experience working with a variety of psychiatric difficulties, working in hospitals for 5 years (with an acute mental health care unit). She will work closely with you, tailoring your therapy to suit you. She works via Telehealth so you can have therapy on video or by phone - you can see her from the comfort of your own home (or car, or office or garden)- anywhere.
![Photo of Supriya Khanijou, MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/892a4848-2081-4225-890e-1060163df16c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Supriya Khanijou
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Footscray, VIC 3011 (Online Only)
After many years of studying and practicing a wide range of holistic approaches for the body, mind and spirit, I've found the answer to true wellbeing comes from strengthening the relationship to ourselves on all levels; physical, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. The best approach is to support ourselves with practical and complementary practices that can be incorporated into our lives in the most beneficial way. I work with clients to find the best suited practices for their individual lifestyle.
After many years of studying and practicing a wide range of holistic approaches for the body, mind and spirit, I've found the answer to true wellbeing comes from strengthening the relationship to ourselves on all levels; physical, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. The best approach is to support ourselves with practical and complementary practices that can be incorporated into our lives in the most beneficial way. I work with clients to find the best suited practices for their individual lifestyle.
![Photo of Christian Long - Chris Long Clinical Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59d28598-9526-4933-ad11-3e07777a1427/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chris Long Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Sunshine, VIC 3020 (Online Only)
I take pride in working with people to support them to achieve their goals and to lead a fulfilling life. I commit to individualised and evidence-based practice, which means holding you as the client at the centre of therapeutic work whilst providing psychotherapy supported by clinical research. A range of different modalities of therapies are offered for a variety of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, eating disorders, ADHD, substance use, chronic pain and personality disorders. I work with adults, adolescents, children and families.
I take pride in working with people to support them to achieve their goals and to lead a fulfilling life. I commit to individualised and evidence-based practice, which means holding you as the client at the centre of therapeutic work whilst providing psychotherapy supported by clinical research. A range of different modalities of therapies are offered for a variety of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, eating disorders, ADHD, substance use, chronic pain and personality disorders. I work with adults, adolescents, children and families.
![Photo of Belinda Hulstrom, ACA-L2, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a6fe537-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have trained in a variety of counselling methods and tend to favour brief, solution-focused approaches designed to help you move forward so that you can lead a life that works. Over the years I have worked with a wide range of people of all ages from 8 to 80 and from all walks of life and I can probably help you with just about any personal, lifestyle or professional issue that is troubling you.
I have trained in a variety of counselling methods and tend to favour brief, solution-focused approaches designed to help you move forward so that you can lead a life that works. Over the years I have worked with a wide range of people of all ages from 8 to 80 and from all walks of life and I can probably help you with just about any personal, lifestyle or professional issue that is troubling you.
![Photo of Tigist Kebede, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5179aa23-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tigist Kebede is Naarm (Melbourne) based Black Counsellor, who employs trauma informed, decolonizing and intersectional frameworks into her practice and advocacy. She specificalised in working with adults with particular interest in culturally responsive clinical practice. Tigist has experience working forensic, non-profit and health sector. She has a history with working with racial trauma, sexual assault, family violence and refugee trauma.
Tigist Kebede is Naarm (Melbourne) based Black Counsellor, who employs trauma informed, decolonizing and intersectional frameworks into her practice and advocacy. She specificalised in working with adults with particular interest in culturally responsive clinical practice. Tigist has experience working forensic, non-profit and health sector. She has a history with working with racial trauma, sexual assault, family violence and refugee trauma.
![Photo of Dr Arran Rose, PsychD, MAPS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/def231b2-ce0a-4be1-aa8c-95cd7b2d6d58/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a clinical and forensic psychologist and supervisor who is dedicated to providing the best possible support to my clients across a range of settings. I I have provided psychological support to clients experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, psychosis, substance use issues, grief and relationship issues, as well as working with people who are neurodivergent. I take a collaborative and evidence based approach with my clients to ensure we acheive the best possible outcomes.
I am a clinical and forensic psychologist and supervisor who is dedicated to providing the best possible support to my clients across a range of settings. I I have provided psychological support to clients experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, psychosis, substance use issues, grief and relationship issues, as well as working with people who are neurodivergent. I take a collaborative and evidence based approach with my clients to ensure we acheive the best possible outcomes.
![Photo of Sylvia Collinetti, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8bc86d0-eb86-49bb-a040-45711ab919bf/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have 25 years’ experience in public mental health and private practice. It is well established that the most important ingredient for any successful therapy is the therapeutic relationship which develops over time and helps you feel safe. I work with you to make sense of your unique story and the reasons you’re engaging in therapy. I start by understanding your early life experiences which impact your thinking patterns, emotions and behaviours from an emphatic and non-judgmental position. Therapy is embedded with compassion, tailored to meet your goals, from a strengths based position to empower your recovery journey.
I have 25 years’ experience in public mental health and private practice. It is well established that the most important ingredient for any successful therapy is the therapeutic relationship which develops over time and helps you feel safe. I work with you to make sense of your unique story and the reasons you’re engaging in therapy. I start by understanding your early life experiences which impact your thinking patterns, emotions and behaviours from an emphatic and non-judgmental position. Therapy is embedded with compassion, tailored to meet your goals, from a strengths based position to empower your recovery journey.
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Maidstone, VIC
< 10
Counsellors in Maidstone, VIC who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Self Esteem |
86% | Relationship Issues |
86% | Stress |
86% | Life Transitions |
71% | Behavioural Issues |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
75% | Medicare Rebates |
75% | NDIS |
50% | Bupa |
How Counsellors in Maidstone, VIC see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
86% | Female | |
14% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Maidstone?
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.