Frequently Asked Questions
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Yes. Feeling anxious, uncertain, or even overwhelmed before contacting a psychologist is very common. Many people worry about being judged, not knowing what to say, or whether their problems are “serious enough”. You don’t need to have the right words or a clear plan. Reaching out is simply a first step, and it’s okay to take it slowly.
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No. You can contact me directly via phone, email, or the referral form. If you would like to access Medicare rebates, you will need a Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP, but you do not need this to make an initial enquiry or ask questions.
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Once your referral is received, I will contact you within 48 hours to discuss what you’re looking for, answer any questions, and talk through next steps. This conversation is about understanding your needs, not committing you to anything.
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That’s okay. Many people come to therapy feeling confused, stuck, or unable to put their experience into words. Part of the work is helping you understand what’s happening and make sense of it together. You don’t need a diagnosis or a clear explanation to begin.
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The first session is focused on understanding your concerns, your goals, and what has been going on for you. There is no pressure to share more than you feel ready to. We will move at a pace that feels manageable and discuss how therapy might help, including what approaches may be most useful for you.
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No. Trauma-informed therapy prioritises safety and choice. You will never be pushed to talk about anything before you are ready. When trauma-focused therapies like EMDR are used, they are carefully paced and do not require detailed verbal retelling of traumatic events.
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This is a very common concern, especially if you’ve tried support before or feel sceptical. The therapies I use are evidence-based and widely recommended in Australia for anxiety, depression, trauma, and stress-related conditions. Therapy is collaborative and practical, and we regularly review whether it is helping and adjust as needed.
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I support people experiencing anxiety disorders, depression and low mood, PTSD and trauma, adjustment and stress disorders, and difficulties with emotion regulation, including anger and relationship challenges. Many people experience more than one of these at the same time, and therapy is tailored accordingly.
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Yes. Sessions are confidential within the limits of the law. This means your information is not shared without your consent, except in specific circumstances related to safety or legal obligations. Confidentiality and trust are central to effective therapy.
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This varies depending on your goals, the issues you’re working on, and what feels right for you. Some people attend for a short period to work through a specific issue, while others benefit from longer-term support. We will review progress together and adjust over time.
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Yes. Caring for someone with mental health difficulties can be exhausting and emotionally complex. You don’t need to be in crisis to seek support for yourself. Carers often benefit from having their own space to talk, gain perspective, and protect their own wellbeing.
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You’re allowed to take your time. You can ask questions, gather information, or have an initial conversation without committing to ongoing therapy. Feeling unsure does not mean therapy isn’t right for you. It simply means you’re being thoughtful about your next step.