Frequently Asked Questions / Terms & Conditions

How long is a counselling session?

Sessions run for a full hour. Sessions can’t be extended as other clients will be waiting for their session (whether in person or on Zoom).

Do you see couples individually?

Couples work often benefits from working with each partner separately as an individual at times. The expectation in this situation is that both parties whilst attending individual sessions will be focused on making positive changes for the good of the relationship.

If at any time one party indicates that they are involved in an extra marital affair or intend to leave the relationship, the relationship counselling will cease from that point as it will become a conflict of interest.

If at any point during the relationship counselling it is determined by me that there is a conflict of interest, I may cease providing counselling services to you immediately. Any such determination of conflict may be made by me at my sole discretion.

Is there a cancellation fee?

I require a minimum 24 hours’ notice of any need to change or cancel an appointment. The full appointment fee will be charged for changes, non-attendance or cancellation with less than 24 hours’ notice. Please be respectful of this policy.

In situations of genuine hardship, please contact me to discuss options.

Affinity Counselling reserves the right to reschedule consultations at any time without compensation if required but will endeavor to minimise any disruption to the services we provide to you.

Is the session confidential?

Yes everything we discuss in a counselling session remains confidential unless I am  subpoenaed by a court, or there is a minor or elder in danger, or I believe you are a threat to yourself or someone in which case I need to report this to the appropriate person.

How experienced are you?

I have been actively working as a counsellor for 15 years. I specialise in marriage counselling and self-esteem and have practised in these areas for over a decade. Relationship counselling requires a counsellor trained and practised in this area to get the best results.

Is remote counselling as effective as face to face counselling?

Generally speaking online counselling is as beneficial as in person counselling. It depends on your comfort level of working online for a counselling session. Relationship counselling can be conducted online providing the couple are not combative. It is difficult to provide a safe space online for couples to speak freely if there is the likelihood of violence.

What sort of problems does a counsellor deal with?

Counsellors are trained to work with people to help navigate a range of problems including life balance, self-esteem, anxiety, personal growth and relationships. Any issue that confronts you as an individual is appropriate to talk about in a counselling session. Counsellors do not diagnose or work with mental health disorders. If you are not sure if I am the right professional to work with please reach out to discuss.

How many sessions are usually required?

Individuals work with me in whatever capacity and timing they feel fits for them. That can mean scheduled weekly sessions right through to a session as needed over the years.

For couples work, I prefer if couples commit to couples counselling sessions fortnightly as this has shown to be the most effective timing over the years of working with couples. As we make progress, I will suggest we increase the intervals between sessions. For marriage counselling, my goal is to work towards you not needing couples counselling.

How long does it take to get an appointment?

I don’t lock you into a contract for appointments or offer Medicare rebates (this only applies to clinical psychology) which means I can usually meet with clients within a few weeks of reaching out. Current clients will always be given priority for available sessions.

Are after hours appointments available?

I see clients Monday to Thursday from 7am. The last session of the day is 4pm.

Friday mornings 7am to 12pm.

I don’t offer any later appointments and no longer provide sessions on the weekends.

What payment methods do you offer?

Online sessions will be invoiced and are due prior to your counselling session. Eftpos is available in the room for in person sessions.

How much are counselling sessions?

As of 1 May 2023 all sessions are $165.

Can I get a rebate for counselling?

Counselling is not covered by Medicare which is why there are no long wait times for appointments. I don’t cover private insurance but my rates are very competitive. 

Please reach out of you have any further questions, I am always happy to answer you. Email is the simplest way to get in touch as I can access this between sessions to answer you.

If you need urgent help now, please contact Lifeline for crisis support.

Are you ready to take the first step to changing your life?

Click the Book Online button below to find my first available appointment and make an online booking