Frequently Asked Questions

Is counselling confidential? 

 

Yes. Engaging in counselling is completely confidential within the limits of the law. No one will know that you have used the service unless you choose to tell them. Any limitations to confidentiality are outlined in my privacy and confidentiality policy. 

How long are individual sessions and how much do they cost? 

 

A standard sessions last 60 minutes and costs $160 (No Medicare). Standard sessions are sessions conducted on Monday - Thursday between the hours of 9am - 6pm. Sessions requested outside of these days and times cost $200 for 60 minutes. Longer sessions are available if required and prices can be provided accordingly.

 

Concession rates may be available in certain situations. Please contact me to discuss this support further.

Where are you located?

 

My therapy space is based off Addison Road in Marrickville, NSW 2204. If you decide to book an appointment you will be provided with comprehensive details of how to find my therapy space. 

Do I need a referral? 

 

No, you are not required to get a referral however you are welcome to. If desired I am more than happy to liaise with your GP, Case Worker, Occupational Therapist or Social Worker. 

Who can book an appointment?

 

Any person aged 16+ that would like a confidential and supportive space to explore and address issues or concerns that are impacting their life and well-being.

 

If you are under the age of 16 I may still be able to help you. However, depending on your age and situation, I may need to speak with a parent, guardian or care representative (e.g. case worker, social worker, etc.) in order to gain their consent first before we start our sessions together.

Can I make an appointment without a mental health care plan?

 

Certainly! You can make an appointment without an active mental health care plan. However, please note that sessions with Proud Place Therapy are not subsidised by Medicare and are charged at the full fee. This means that you will be responsible for covering the full cost of the session yourself.

Do you accept Medicare mental health care plans?

 

In Australia, only psychologists, social workers, and occupational therapists are authorised to work with Medicare for mental health services. Unfortunately, this means that Counsellors, Psychotherapists, and Therapists, like myself, are unable to accept mental health care plans and offer Medicare rebates.

 

However, choosing not to use Medicare can come with several advantages. One significant benefit is the freedom to choose a provider that you truly connect with. Every provider has their own unique style and approach to therapy, so it's essential to find someone you feel comfortable with.

 

Another advantage is the flexibility to choose the type of therapy that resonates best with you. Medicare approves specific types of treatment interventions, but by not using Medicare, you are not limited to these options.

 

Additionally, there are no restrictions on the number of therapy sessions available when you are not relying on Medicare. Medicare coverage tends to have limitations on the number of sessions covered, but by choosing Proud Place Therapy, you can have the freedom to determine the frequency of your sessions.

 

Finally, when it comes to cost, you may find that Proud Place Therapy offers more affordable prices compared to out-of-pocket expenses with a practitioner seen under a mental health care plan with Medicare. I encourage you to take a look at my prices outlined above and see for yourself.

Can I have sessions online by video call?

 

Yes, I offer counselling services both in-person or via video call (online). However, I am unable to offer counselling services simply over the telephone.

What happens in a first session?

 

In our first session, we will spend time to get to know each other and begin to establish what your main concerns are, the changes you may be seeking and how we might move towards your desired outcome in future sessions. There are also some intake things to go over, such as consent, confidentiality and appointment formalities.

What do I need to do before our first appointment?

 

Prior to your first appointment, you will receive a form via email. Please complete and return the form before your appointment if you can. This form is designed to let me know more about you, including recent and past experiences, which will help guide our conversation in our first appointment.

What's the cancellation policy? 

 

If for some reason you need to postpone or cancel your session, please note that 48 hours notice is required for cancellations.

 

Cancellations less than 48 hours prior to the session will be charged at 50% of the consultation rate, and less than 24 hours prior to the session will be charged at 100% of the consultation rate.

 

Please note that weekends are not included in the notice period. Under exceptional circumstances, the notice period is discretionary and will be assessed by Proud Place Therapy.

 

Cancellation > 48 hours prior No Fee

Cancellation < 48 hours prior 50% of fee

Cancellation < 24 hours prior 100% of fee

No notice (No show) 100% of fee

How do I provide feedback or make a complaint?

 

I take all feedback and complaints seriously and I endeavour to provide the highest level of support possible.

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Feedback or complaint pathways -

• Phoning on 0499 273 696

• In writing via email to: feedback@proudplace.com.au