Frequently Asked Questions

Do I actually need counselling?

If you're asking the question, something's probably not sitting right. You don't need to be in crisis to benefit — most people come in because something has been wearing away at them for a while: stress that won't switch off, a relationship stuck in the same argument, a short fuse they don't like, or just the sense that they're not travelling well. Counselling is a practical way to work on that with someone whose job is to help, not to judge.

I've never done this before. What happens in the first session?

Nothing dramatic. We talk. I'll ask what's brought you in, what's been going on, and what you'd want to be different. You don't need to prepare anything or have the right words for it — that's my job to help with. By the end of the first session you'll have a sense of whether this feels useful and whether we're a good fit. There's no obligation to continue.

Is it just talking, or do we actually do something?

Both. Talking things through matters — most people are carrying things they've never said out loud — but sessions are also practical. Depending on what you're working on, we might use approaches like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), CBT or clinical hypnotherapy, and you'll usually leave with something concrete to work with between sessions. The aim is change you can notice, not just a weekly chat.

What do you work with?

My main areas are counselling for men, couples counselling, and anxiety and trauma. That covers a lot of ground in practice: stress and burnout, anger, relationship strain, low mood, life transitions, grief, and confidence. I’ve also worked with addictions and phobias as well as spent years working with children and adolescents. If what you're dealing with sits outside what I can help with well, I'll say so and point you towards someone better placed.

What makes you different from other counsellors?

Mileage. Before private practice, I spent twelve years working on the front line of community services: as a drug and alcohol counsellor; supporting people rebuilding their lives after prison; working with children, adolescents and families; working with couples; and facilitating around a thousand men's behaviour change group sessions. That's years spent in rooms with people in genuinely hard circumstances — many of whom didn't want to be there — and it teaches you quickly what actually helps and what just sounds good. Whatever you're carrying, there's a good chance I've sat with something like it before. You won't shock me, and you won't need to soften it.

How much does it cost?

Sessions are $165 for 60 minutes. Sometimes I suggest 90 minutes for a couples session, which costs $240. Payment is by card, in person or online at the time of the session.

Can I get a Medicare rebate?

No — Medicare rebates don't currently apply to counsellors, only to psychologists and some other providers under a Mental Health Treatment Plan. The trade-off is you don't need a GP referral, there's no cap on session numbers and nothing goes on your Medicare record. Some private health funds offer rebates for counselling — check with your fund.

Is what I say confidential?

Yes. What you say in session stays between us. There are a few legally required exceptions — if there's a serious risk of harm to you or someone else, if a child is at risk or if records are subpoenaed by a court — and I'll always be upfront with you about how these work. The details are in the consent form every client completes before we start.

How many sessions will I need?

It depends on what you're working on. Some people get what they need in four to six sessions; deeper or longer-standing issues take longer. We'll review as we go — you're never locked in, and my aim is for you to need me less over time, not more.

What if my partner won't come to couples counselling?

That’s a common situation. You can start on your own — working on your side of the pattern often shifts the dynamic more than you'd expect, and a reluctant partner sometimes becomes more willing once they see it's practical rather than a blame session. If they decide to come along later, we can move to couples work as long as you’re both okay with that.

Do you see clients online?

Yes — sessions are available in person in Adelaide or by secure video anywhere in Australia. Online sessions work the same way and are just as confidential. All you need is a private space and a decent connection.

Are you qualified?

I hold a Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy, I'm a registered member of the Australian Counselling Association, and I've been working with people for over a decade. I'm also completing a Diploma of Clinical Hypnotherapy. Registration means I work under a professional code of ethics, with ongoing supervision and training requirements.

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

Different training pathways, a lot of overlap in practice. Psychologists complete university training in psychology, can provide Medicare-rebated sessions and can diagnose; counsellors complete university or equivalent training in counselling and psychotherapy and work outside the Medicare system. For many concerns — relationships, stress, anxiety, life issues — the evidence suggests the quality of the working relationship matters more than the title. If your situation needs psychiatric or psychological care, I'll tell you and help you get there.

What if I need to cancel?

Life happens — just give me 24 hours’ notice and we'll reschedule without any charge. Late cancellations and no-shows may incur a fee depending on the circumstances because that time has been held for you.

How do I book?

Online, anytime — pick a time that suits you through the booking page. No referral needed, no waiting for a callback. If you'd rather ask a question first, get in touch via the contact page.