FAQs

What can I expect from the first appointment?

In your first appointment we will discuss your reasons for seeking therapy and any concerns you might have. It will be an opportunity to tell your story, and to have someone be present with you to hear and hold space for your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I will meet you at your pace. You will not be forced or hurried into talking about anything you are not comfortable to in your first session, or any of your sessions.

The first appointment is also an opportunity for you to familiarize yourself with the environment, with myself and the counselling process, and decide whether you feel that this is a good fit for you.

How long does each therapy session take?

A standard therapy or counselling session is 50 minutes.

How many sessions will I need?

The number of sessions you need will depend entirely on your individual circumstances. You will likely get a sense of what regularity works for you. Therapy can be most effective when it is regular and consistent, particularly when you first begin the process.

Typically, sessions can occur weekly or fortnightly to start with, and then decrease in frequency as you work through your concerns; however, this is flexible.

Are the sessions confidential?

Confidentiality is maintained by the counsellor as follows-

• Counselling records are stored securely.
• The client’s informed consent will be obtained in the event any case material is to be used for other purposes such as research/training etc.
• Only with client’s prior consent will their identity be made public.

All personal information will remain confidential, except for the following circumstances-

• It is subpoenaed by a court
• In my professional supervision with all identifying information removed
• Failure to disclose information would place you or/and another person at risk
• Failure to disclose would place a child at risk of harm (mandatory reporting)
• Your prior approval has been obtain to: Provide a written report or referral to another person or agency or discuss the material with another person.

What qualifications do you have?

I have a diploma in Counselling and a Bachelor of social work with distinction from Deakin University. I have over 9 years’ experience working with youth, families, and carers. Supporting clients with anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, self-harm, and many other concerns.

I have over 10 years’ experience working with autism, ADHD, and many other disabilities. During this time my work included supporting social and peer relationships, independent living skills, advocacy and providing psychoeducation to care teams and systems.

Currently I work as a clinician with infants, children, young people, families, and carers who have experienced trauma. I am certified in Child Parent Psychotherapy. I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker.

I am a member of Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW).

Can I contact Nourish Psychotherapy and Counselling after hours?

Nourish Psychotherapy and Counselling is not an emergency service, we are unavailable outside of opening hours. If you require immediate support, please contact emergency services or after-hours counselling services such as:

• Lifeline – 13 11 14
• Kids Helpline – 1800 55 1800 (for young people up to the age of 25)
• Beyond Blue- 1300224636 (for depression, anxiety and related disorders)
• SANE- 1800187263 (for people affected by complex mental health issues)
• Headspace-1800650890 (Young people aged 12-25)