WHERE DO I START?
It’s normal to be nervous and not sure of how a session will work, particularly if it is your first time seeing a counsellor.
I’m known for being warm, kind and compassionate. I can at times be very direct, if I consider it appropriate. I will make all efforts to ensure you are comfortable in the session.
You are under no obligation or pressure, and we’ll move at a pace that you are comfortable with. I find the best place to start is where you are right now, with what has brought you to seek counselling.
ARE OUR CONVERSATIONS CONFIDENTIAL?
As a registered counsellor my code of ethics binds me to keep your records (identity + content) strictly private and confidential.
There are rare and exceptional circumstances where confidentiality may be breached. These include: if I am ordered by a court of law to share your records, if you are at risk of harm, if you disclose that you have an intention to harm others, or if there is a child at risk.
Where possible, any disclosure by me would be discussed with you prior to this occurring.
WILL I NEED TO COME BACK? HOW OFTEN?
That is entirely driven by you. Some people want to focus on a particular problem or aspect in their life, and may not need more than one session. Others may want to achieve broader goals or solutions, and may want to maintain momentum over a series of visits (weekly, monthly). Either way, you are not locked in and you can pause, stop or restart counselling at any time.
DO I NEED A REFERRAL?
You do not need a referral to see a counsellor. All sessions are completely private and confidential, I report to no one other than you.
IS THERE A MEDICARE REBATE?
Counsellors are not currently included in Medicare, so there are no rebates.
LAUNCESTON IS A SMALL PLACE, WHAT IF I BUMP INTO YOU AT THE SUPERMARKET/PARK/A FRIEND’S HOUSE?
If you’d like to, say “hello”, or if you’d prefer I walk by without saying hello – that is ok too. I am bound by confidentiality to you as my client, and our therapeutic relationship (both in session and out of session) is covered by this confidentiality. We will never discuss out of session what we have discussed in session.