Getting Started

Do i need a referral to see you?

No, you do not need a referral to see me, however, if a medical or other allied health professional has recommended a psychological service, it would be useful to have some information about their treatment. In addition, if you would like to claim payments (e.g. Medicare, Workcover), then you will need a referral.

What Funding options are available?

You may be eligible for rebates through Medicare, private health insurance, WorkCover, NDIS (self- and plan-managed), TAC, or DVA. See the Rebates and Funding page for more details or get in touch if you're unsure.

What can I expect from my first session?

The first session will typically involve the psychologist asking you questions about what brings you to see them, your history, personal situation, and what your goals are. By the end of the session, the psychologist can share a treatment plan, and based on your goals, there may also be an action plan that is developed about changes that you would like to put in place initially.

It is important to remember that therapy is about working together, so please feel free to ask questions, and to be open and honest about what you are thinking and feeling. It is also important that you feel that you are able to go at your own pace, and take an active part in the process.

Therapy process

How do I know if online counselling is right for me?

There is no right answer for this question, as everyone is different, however, you can explore the advantages of online therapy and who this is not suitable for on this website. Some people may find the convenience of online therapy is important, and feel that they are more comfortable discussing personal aspects of their life online, whilst others can feel that it is distant and miss the in-person interactions. It’s a personal preference, and you will be able to see how you feel about online psychology throughout your initial sessions. Please feel free to discuss this with me, as we might be able to adjust your set up, so you feel more comfortable.

How many sessions will I need and how often?

This can be a difficult question to answer, and it will depend on the reasons that you are coming to therapy. In addition, therapy can often also involve exploring the issues at hand, and can sometimes take some time. It is important to note that as part of the process, we will discuss a treatment plan, and we will work together to develop a guide of your ongoing therapy. Please remember that this is your health, and as such, it is important to be open about what you are feeling, to review what is helping, and to be open about your experience of therapy.

What is intensive therapy, and how is it different?

Intensive therapy is a personalised approach that offers extended or more frequent sessions to work through specific challenges in a focused way. It’s ideal if you want to dive deeper, make faster progress, or have limited time for weekly sessions. Learn more on the Intensive Therapy page.

About the process

Why do you ask me questions about lifestyle factors, like my diet, exercise and family relationships?

Emotional and physical health are deeply connected. Understanding your lifestyle—including sleep, nutrition, movement, relationships, and routines—helps create a holistic picture of your wellbeing. Together, we can explore small, realistic changes to support your emotional health.

Are the sessions confidential?

Sessions are confidential; however it is important to note that in certain circumstances, your treating psychologist is required to break confidentiality. This happens when it is required by law, there is risk of harm to you or others, or if files are subpoenaed. For more information on this, please see our privacy policy or discuss this with your psychologist.

What if I’m running late for an appointment?

Unfortunately, if you are running late, we are unable to extend appointment times. Therefore, your appointment time will be shortened, however we can try to cover as much as we can in the time that is remaining.

What are your opening hours?

Regular opening hours are Monday and Thursday. I have some morning, afternoon and early evening times to attempt to suit most people. If you have any questions or comments about the hours, feel free to contact me via email, and we can endeavour to find a time that suits you.

Qualifications and Therapy approaches

What is a clinical psychologist?

Clinical psychologists are experts in mental health, who have undertaken specialised training in the diagnosis and psychological treatment of mental, behavioural and emotional disorders. Clinical psychology uses a scientist-practitioner model which integrates theory and clinical practice to understand, prevent, and relieve psychological distress or dysfunction.

For more information about clinical psychology, please click here.

What is Brainspotting?

One of the techniques that I use in therapy is Brainspotting. This is a powerful, brain-based therapy that helps you process and release emotional or physical pain stored in the body. It works by using specific eye positions to access deeper parts of the brain involved in memory, emotion, and trauma. It’s often used for trauma, anxiety, performance issues, and blocks that feel hard to shift with traditional talk therapy.

What is Internal Family systems (IFS)?

IFS is a gentle, evidence-based therapy that helps you explore the different “parts” within yourself—like the inner critic, the people-pleaser, or the overwhelmed part. Rather than pushing these parts away, IFS helps you understand and support them, creating more self-compassion, clarity, and calm. It’s especially helpful for those feeling stuck in repeating patterns or struggling with emotional regulation.

What’s the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialise in the diagnosing and treatment of mental health. As they are medical doctors, they are able to prescribe medications, alongside their expertise in complex and serious mental illness. As described above, psychologists are professionals trained in the science of how people think, feel, behave and learn.

What’s the difference between a counsellor and a psychologist?

The main difference is a question of training and regulation. A counsellor is not a registered trade in Australia, and therefore there is no governing body. A counsellor may have done a short course, or they may have studied more at length.

In Australia, psychology is a regulated profession, and therefore people who call themselves a psychologist must be registered with the Psychology Board of Australia. Registered clinical psychologists are required to have a minimum of six years of university training and supervised experience, as well as engage in ongoing education to keep their skills up to date. (N.B. you can check on the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency website to see whether a person is registered as a psychologist via this link).