Frequently Asked Questions

Medicare does not provide rebates for couples counselling or relationship therapy. The Better Access initiative supports individuals with mental health conditions, but it does not cover sessions focused on couple dynamics. Even with mental health care plans, joint sessions cannot be claimed.

However, some private health insurance policies may offer rebates, and community-based services like Relationships Australia provide affordable options. For those experiencing financial hardship, I offer a limited number of reduced-fee sessions, available on a first-come, first-served basis. If cost is a concern, I encourage exploring these alternatives.

Medicare only covers sessions with a registered psychologist or clinical psychologist under a Mental Health Care Plan. I understand this can be frustrating when seeking support for personal or relationship challenges.

To help, I’ve set my session fees to remain as accessible as possible. My rates are similar to what many clients pay after receiving a Medicare rebate for psychologist sessions, with the added flexibility of working with a counsellor without a referral or diagnosis.

Additionally, I offer a limited number of reduced-fee appointments for clients facing financial hardship. Feel free to contact me if you'd like to discuss options.

In our first session, we’ll focus on getting to know you and understanding the challenges you're facing. We'll explore what has brought you to therapy and what you hope to gain.

Whether you have specific goals or are unsure where to begin, that’s perfectly fine. I’ll meet you where you are and guide the process to help bring clarity and direction. This session is also an opportunity for you to ask questions about the therapeutic process and ensure this feels like the right fit for you.

The first session focuses on exploring the dynamics of your relationship—essentially, the "we" that exists between you and your partner. We’ll create a safe, non-judgmental space for both partners to share openly, making sure everyone feels heard and respected. I’ll ask thoughtful questions to clarify your experiences and help shape a path forward.

In the two following sessions, we’ll shift focus to the "I" in the relationship—exploring each person’s individual background and how it shapes the way you connect, communicate, and respond within the relationship. This deeper understanding helps build a strong foundation for meaningful change and deeper connection.

Secure relationships have a strong sense of both "I" and "We"—balancing individual identity with shared connection is key to lasting relational health.

We will then come back together for the remainder of the sessions, working through your connection, communication, and the concerns that brought you to therapy—always with the goal of strengthening your partnership in a way that feels authentic and supportive.

The number of sessions needed varies based on your relationship’s challenges and goals. Some couples address specific concerns, like parenting issues, in 6 sessions. On average, couples attend between 10-20 sessions depending on the complexity of their issues. Some also choose to continue with maintenance appointments to further nurture and strengthen their relationship.

There’s no fixed duration—sessions are tailored to meet your needs, and I will regularly check in to ensure the therapy aligns with your goals.

The number of sessions you need depends on your unique situation, goals, and preferences. In our first session, we’ll discuss your needs and what you hope to achieve. Some clients address specific issues in a few focused sessions, while others prefer ongoing support for deeper patterns or multiple concerns.

For some, therapy becomes a lifelong process of self-reflection, growth, and support through various life stages. Whether you seek short-term assistance or long-term guidance, we’ll create a plan that works for you.

The pace of therapy is up to you. You can attend as many or as few sessions as you feel necessary, and we’ll regularly check in to ensure our work aligns with your goals.

There are several therapeutic modalities that support couples in navigating the complexities of their relationships. Among the most well-researched and widely respected approaches are Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT)and the Gottman Method. I’ve received training in both, along with additional modalities that provide a broad foundation for working with diverse relationship dynamics.

I often find the Gottman Method especially effective for the psychoeducational aspects of therapy—helping couples understand the research behind successful relationships and build practical skills. In contrast, Emotionally Focused Therapy is particularly powerful for identifying and reshaping the negative interaction cycles that keep partners stuck, while also addressing the deeper emotional needs driving those patterns.

Ultimately, the most important factor in successful couples therapy is finding a therapist you and your partner feel safe and comfortable with. A strong sense of trust and rapport lays the groundwork for meaningful progress and lasting change.

I offer tailored support to help parents navigate the various challenges of raising children. Whether you’re managing a child’s diagnosis, addressing challenging behaviour, working through parenting triggers, or aiming to create a more peaceful home environment, I’m here to help.

My approach combines a strong understanding of child development with awareness of the demands parents face today. I also attend regular training on ADHD, discipline, and behaviour management to stay current with the latest strategies. I do the reading, research, and training on parenting so you don’t have to—allowing you to focus on what matters most: your family.

Parent support sessions are typically brief and focused, designed to address specific parenting concerns efficiently. Sessions start at 45 minutes, though most parents opt for the 60-minute option to allow more time for discussion and planning.

Some parents find that just a few sessions are enough to gain the clarity or tools they need, while others appreciate the benefits of ongoing support. After resolving an initial concern, many choose to schedule regular maintenance sessions to stay on track and continue building confidence in their parenting.