What is counselling?
Counselling is a process of talking about and working through personal problems with a counsellor. The counsellor helps you to address problems in a positive way by helping you to clarify issues, explore options, develop strategies and increase self-awareness. For some people, just the process of telling their story to a counsellor and being listened to, is very helpful.
How to Choose a Therapist, Counsellor, & Psychologist
https://www.goodtherapy.com.au/
Do I need a referral?
No, you can refer yourself
What should I expect on my first visit?
The first session is an opportunity for the counsellor and client to get to know each other and for the client to feel comfortable with the counsellor. The client may talk about what they would like to achieve during counselling; the counsellor and client may draw up a plan. The counsellor will also talk about confidentiality and the client’s rights and responsibilities. People new to counselling often hope for quick answers or advice. A counsellor will not tell you what to do, they may offer helpful strategies to try out. It may not seem possible at first, but the solution will come from within you, with the support and guidance of your counsellor. As such, counselling will not give you a quick fix. This is especially the case if your issue has been with you for some time. Concerns will be unpacked over time, when you are ready.
How will I know if therapy is working?
Progress-in-Therapy Indicators: 1. Your moods and emotions have improved.
2. Your thinking has shifted. 3. Your behaviours have changed. 4. Your relationships with others are better. 5. You have better life satisfaction. 6. Your diagnosis changes.
How can I leave feedback?
You can complete the feedback form online
What is confidentiality and when does it apply?
Counselling provides confidential support. This means that everything you discuss with the counsellor is private, between you and the counsellor. The exception is when a counsellor has a duty of care to report something that threatens your wellbeing or the wellbeing of others. This legal requirement will be explained to you in your first counselling session.
Cancellation policy
No penalties exist if a client cancels a session with a minimum of 24 hours’ notice prior to the counselling session. Clients who do not keep to appointment times and have not cancelled the session will incur a penalty. There is an expectation by your counsellor that you will commit fully to the counselling process, and this includes keeping appointments. Unexpected emergencies can be discussed on an individual basis.
Covid Safety Plan
Our Covid Safety Plan provides members of the practice team guidance on operating in a COVID-safe way, and helps identify and mitigate risks during the ongoing pandemic.
Our practice is dedicated to the health, safety and wellbeing of all team members, patients, contractors and visitors. In this pandemic environment, we acknowledge additional precautions are required and that these are outlined in this COVID Safety Plan. 1. Practice access and client flow 2. Physical distancing 3. Infection-control training 4. Use of personal protective equipment 5. Environmental management and cleaning 6. Practice team management and limiting interactions in closed spaces 7. Responding to a positive case, or close contact, in the practice team