Frequently asked Questions

What is 'Psychotherapy'?

Psychotherapy focuses on the whole person, encompassing somatic, emotional, mental, cultural, relational, and spiritual aspects of health and well-being. It is a holistic and relational psychotherapeutic approach addressing everyday concerns, mental health problems, and mental illness.

What does 'Lived-Experience Counsellor' mean?

A 'lived experience' counsellor is one who draws on their personal experience with mental health challenges, recovery, or related struggles to inform their counseling practice. They offer a unique experience of empathy and understanding, connecting with clients through shared experiences and serving as role models for recovery. While they have personal experience, they also receive formal training in counseling, ensuring a professional approach to their work. They provide support not only as a peer but additionally as a qualified professional.

What is 'Trauma-informed' Care?

Trauma-informed care in counselling is an approach that acknowledges and incorporates an understanding of the impact of trauma on clients' lives. It involves creating a safe and supportive environment where clients feel respected and understood. Key principles include:

  1. Safety: Ensuring a physical and emotional environment that feels secure for clients.

  2. Trustworthiness and Transparency: Building trust through clear, consistent, and honest communication.

  3. Empowerment: Encouraging clients' autonomy and collaboration in their healing process.

  4. Cultural, Historical, and Gender Sensitivity: Recognizing and addressing the diverse backgrounds and experiences of clients.

  5. Understanding Trauma’s Impact: Recognizing the ways trauma can affect behaviour, emotions, and relationships.

How much are sessions with Safe Now Therapy?

I offer a free 15 minute consultatioin to get to know eachother briefly and assess if I am the counsellor for you. 

Sessions are $130 for a 1hour session and $200 for a 90min session 

If you are facing financial difficulty, please let me know and we can chat about more appropriate pricing or alternate counselling options. 

Unfortunately, Medicare rebates are not available for this service so we are not able to take Mental Health Care Plans. 

I don't live in Australia, can I still access counselling through Safe Now Therapy?

Yes you can! We are insured to provide psychotherapy to any country.

Just a few things... 

1. Must speak English 

2. Must be able to adhere to Australian Eastern Standard Time (GMT+10)

What is your cancellation policy?

We ask that you provide 24 hours notice minimum to cancel or reschedule a booking. Within reason, you will be charged the full amount of the appointment for failure to notify Safe Now Therapy within 24 hours. 

What do I need to do Telehealth Counselling?

For video, you'll need a computer with a camera and an internet connection.

For phone counselling, you will need stable phone service and a charged phone to use.

I also recommend that you're alone for our sessions and that you have a quiet space so you don't have any distractions. 

Is online counselling as effective as in-person therapy?

Research has shown that online counselling can be just as effective as in-person therapy, offering convenience and accessibility to access therapy in the comfort of your own home (and pets are allowed and in fact, welcomed 🐕🐈🐟🐦🐍) 

Why do you have the option for 90 minute sessions?

I find that some struggle to connect to their experience in simply 50 minutes, others can find 50-minute sessions perfect for them. Particularly while working in trauma, 90 minutes can be appropriate for building a safe space before they become ready to share what they would like to, or they have something 'big' they would like to work through with the therapist.  

What does 'PACFA Registered Practicing Counsellor' mean?

PACFA, or the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia, is a professional association that represents and regulates counsellors and psychotherapists in Australia 

PACFA Registrants are required to undertake minimum registration requirements to maintain their membership. These include...

Continued Professional Development (CPD) and regular supervision with a PACFA registered supervisor. 

Do you see NDIS participants? Is the price different?

As long as they have a valid NDIS plan and they are self managed or plan managed, I absolutely can! NDIS Participants are charged at the same rate as privately funded clients.

Claimed as: 15_043_0128_1_3 Assessment Recommendation Therapy or Training - Counsellor