Counselling in 3186

Photo of Clarissa Martinez, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L4
Clarissa Martinez
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L4
Brighton, VIC 3186
Hello you may have arrived here in search of support and clarity or to understand some issues that may have had a profound impact within your life. If you are looking for support and guidance through a challenging situation or you’re just ready to move into a new direction in your life I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals. I work one on one with adults at my practice located in Brighton. The services I provide is an integrative mixture of Kinesiology, Counselling, Neurofeedback and Reiki therapy.
Hello you may have arrived here in search of support and clarity or to understand some issues that may have had a profound impact within your life. If you are looking for support and guidance through a challenging situation or you’re just ready to move into a new direction in your life I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals. I work one on one with adults at my practice located in Brighton. The services I provide is an integrative mixture of Kinesiology, Counselling, Neurofeedback and Reiki therapy.
(03) 7003 2286 View (03) 7003 2286
Photo of Felicity Broadbent, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Felicity Broadbent
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Brighton, VIC 3186
Not accepting new clients
I am a registered Educational and Developmental psychologist who works with children and adolescents (2-18 years), and their families. My special interests include Autism, ADHD, anxiety, behavioural issues, and neurodiversity affirming parenting. I use a range of therapeutic techniques to engage with clients and build upon their strengths. I am passionate about working collaboratively with parents and other professionals to work towards the same shared goals. I love helping clients and their families recognise and embrace their differences. I also conduct autism, ADHD, cognitive, intellectual disability, and giftedness assessments.
I am a registered Educational and Developmental psychologist who works with children and adolescents (2-18 years), and their families. My special interests include Autism, ADHD, anxiety, behavioural issues, and neurodiversity affirming parenting. I use a range of therapeutic techniques to engage with clients and build upon their strengths. I am passionate about working collaboratively with parents and other professionals to work towards the same shared goals. I love helping clients and their families recognise and embrace their differences. I also conduct autism, ADHD, cognitive, intellectual disability, and giftedness assessments.
(03) 7003 2139 View (03) 7003 2139
Photo of James Shulman, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
James Shulman
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Brighton, VIC 3186
No current availability for new clients Dr. James Shulman is a clinical psychologist who recognises the importance of creating a safe space for individuals who come to therapy at a challenging time in their lives. James understands that the relationship between client and therapist is central to therapy. James focuses on building a shared understanding of difficulties that may be interfering in people's lives, and how to enhance well-being and functioning. James specialises in working with adolescents and adults across a broad range of mental health difficulties.
No current availability for new clients Dr. James Shulman is a clinical psychologist who recognises the importance of creating a safe space for individuals who come to therapy at a challenging time in their lives. James understands that the relationship between client and therapist is central to therapy. James focuses on building a shared understanding of difficulties that may be interfering in people's lives, and how to enhance well-being and functioning. James specialises in working with adolescents and adults across a broad range of mental health difficulties.
(03) 7003 2141 View (03) 7003 2141
Photo of Francesco Poci, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Francesco Poci
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Brighton, VIC 3186
Francesco can help with your issues or concerns such as anxiety, depression and phobias. Francesco also has a particular interest working with clients in regard to sexual health concerns. He can help you with workplace concerns, career counselling, life change and existential concerns. In addition to holding a Master of Professional Psychology from Monash University, he also holds a Master of Science in Medicine (HIV, STIs and Sexual Health) from The University of Sydney. He is therefore interested in assisting clients in regard to couples counselling and sexual dysfunction.
Francesco can help with your issues or concerns such as anxiety, depression and phobias. Francesco also has a particular interest working with clients in regard to sexual health concerns. He can help you with workplace concerns, career counselling, life change and existential concerns. In addition to holding a Master of Professional Psychology from Monash University, he also holds a Master of Science in Medicine (HIV, STIs and Sexual Health) from The University of Sydney. He is therefore interested in assisting clients in regard to couples counselling and sexual dysfunction.
(03) 9070 3565 View (03) 9070 3565
Photo of Meg Foreman - Sunrise Psychology & Health, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Sunrise Psychology & Health
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Brighton, VIC 3186
I believe in a holistic approach to care, recognising that psychological symptoms can be multi factorial and require a range of treatment approaches. I enjoy helping people through a variety of issues including; life changes and adjustments, relationship issues, self-confidence, health issues and interpersonal issues. I also offer services to those who want to learn how to get the most out of life through personal growth, examining values and goal setting.
I believe in a holistic approach to care, recognising that psychological symptoms can be multi factorial and require a range of treatment approaches. I enjoy helping people through a variety of issues including; life changes and adjustments, relationship issues, self-confidence, health issues and interpersonal issues. I also offer services to those who want to learn how to get the most out of life through personal growth, examining values and goal setting.
(03) 7003 2589 View (03) 7003 2589
Photo of Judith Thomas, Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Judith Thomas
Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Brighton, VIC 3186
Judith has worked in Brighton for more than 25 years. She works with teenagers, adults and couples. She has a broad range of expertise in different therapies and has worked with clients requiring assistance for anxiety, depression, phobias, panic attacks, low self esteem, PTSD, relationship difficulties, parenting issues, and grief.
Judith has worked in Brighton for more than 25 years. She works with teenagers, adults and couples. She has a broad range of expertise in different therapies and has worked with clients requiring assistance for anxiety, depression, phobias, panic attacks, low self esteem, PTSD, relationship difficulties, parenting issues, and grief.
(03) 7003 2741 View (03) 7003 2741
Photo of Deborah Cameron, Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
Deborah Cameron
Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Brighton, VIC 3186
Three master’s degrees in psychotherapy, counselling, and special education; a clinical registrant and accredited supervisor with PACFA, AAPi, and ACA. I am currently completing a Master’s in Therapeutic Arts Practice. I provide a supportive space where clients feel heard, valued, and respected. Through active listening, empathy, and non-judgmental reflection, I help clients explore their stories, identify goals, and develop strategies for daily life. While I do not give advice, I engage actively in conversations, ensuring therapy remains collaborative and meaningful. Talk therapy fosters growth, clarity, and self-awareness.
Three master’s degrees in psychotherapy, counselling, and special education; a clinical registrant and accredited supervisor with PACFA, AAPi, and ACA. I am currently completing a Master’s in Therapeutic Arts Practice. I provide a supportive space where clients feel heard, valued, and respected. Through active listening, empathy, and non-judgmental reflection, I help clients explore their stories, identify goals, and develop strategies for daily life. While I do not give advice, I engage actively in conversations, ensuring therapy remains collaborative and meaningful. Talk therapy fosters growth, clarity, and self-awareness.
(03) 7003 2799 View (03) 7003 2799
Photo of Susanne Goldie, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Susanne Goldie
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Brighton, VIC 3186
I am a psychologist with over 15 years experience supporting people to optimise their well-being. I work with a wide range of adult individuals in an inclusive, holistic way to understand each person and support them in achieving their goals. People I help are often seeking support for anxiety, depression, family, relationship or work-related stress as well as a range of more complex conditions.
I am a psychologist with over 15 years experience supporting people to optimise their well-being. I work with a wide range of adult individuals in an inclusive, holistic way to understand each person and support them in achieving their goals. People I help are often seeking support for anxiety, depression, family, relationship or work-related stress as well as a range of more complex conditions.
0409 006 125 View 0409 006 125
Photo of Hannah Hawkes, Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Hannah Hawkes
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Brighton, VIC 3186
Not accepting new clients
I'm a Clinical Psychologist, Board-Approved Supervisor, EMDR Consultant and Psychedelic-Assisted Therapist. I work with adult clients and supervisees. We all face difficulties like anxiety, stress and depression at times and we may need support to navigate these challenges. I have a passion for working with people who've experienced trauma, including PTSD and attachment trauma/childhood difficulties. I have lots of experience with first responders. I use EMDR, schema therapy or IFS. I like to be warm, empathic, approachable and down to earth and it is important to me that you feel comfortable, safe and understood.Happy to chat first
I'm a Clinical Psychologist, Board-Approved Supervisor, EMDR Consultant and Psychedelic-Assisted Therapist. I work with adult clients and supervisees. We all face difficulties like anxiety, stress and depression at times and we may need support to navigate these challenges. I have a passion for working with people who've experienced trauma, including PTSD and attachment trauma/childhood difficulties. I have lots of experience with first responders. I use EMDR, schema therapy or IFS. I like to be warm, empathic, approachable and down to earth and it is important to me that you feel comfortable, safe and understood.Happy to chat first
(03) 7500 5318 View (03) 7500 5318
Photo of Dr Emily Hines - Dr Emily Hines - Clin Psych - People Psychology, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Emily Hines - Clin Psych - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Brighton, VIC 3186
Get help by seeing Emily, who has extensive experience with: Anxiety, Depression, Grief & Loss, Trauma and PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), Relationship Issues & Communication Issues, Interpersonal Difficulties Panic Attacks & Panic Disorder, Phobias (Fear of specific things / situations), OCD, Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) Social Anxiety Disorder Low Mood Study Stress Workplace Stress & Issues Workplace Bullying Self-Esteem & Self Development Eating Disorders Body Image Coping with Illness Loneliness & Social Isolation Coping with Failure Women’s Issues Adjustment Disorder Life Goals (Meaning and Direction)
Get help by seeing Emily, who has extensive experience with: Anxiety, Depression, Grief & Loss, Trauma and PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), Relationship Issues & Communication Issues, Interpersonal Difficulties Panic Attacks & Panic Disorder, Phobias (Fear of specific things / situations), OCD, Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) Social Anxiety Disorder Low Mood Study Stress Workplace Stress & Issues Workplace Bullying Self-Esteem & Self Development Eating Disorders Body Image Coping with Illness Loneliness & Social Isolation Coping with Failure Women’s Issues Adjustment Disorder Life Goals (Meaning and Direction)
(03) 9133 0996 View (03) 9133 0996
Photo of Dr Pieter Jansen van Rensburg - Dr Pieter van Rensburg Cln Psy - People Psychology, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Pieter van Rensburg Cln Psy - People Psychology
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Brighton, VIC 3186
Get help by seeing Pieter, who has extensive experience with: Depression Anxiety Disorders (including Acute Anxiety, Social Anxiety, GAD Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Anxiety related to serious illnesses) Panic Attacks Phobias (Fear of specific things / situations) Managing Initial Responses to Traumatic Events Trauma & Debriefing Traumatic Events PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) & Trauma Management Grief and Loss (including Pathological Grieving) Anger Management & Emotional Regulation Difficulties Dependency Disorders (Alcohol, Substance Abuse, Gambling) Conflict and Crisis Management Adjustment Disorder Relocation Issues
Get help by seeing Pieter, who has extensive experience with: Depression Anxiety Disorders (including Acute Anxiety, Social Anxiety, GAD Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Anxiety related to serious illnesses) Panic Attacks Phobias (Fear of specific things / situations) Managing Initial Responses to Traumatic Events Trauma & Debriefing Traumatic Events PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) & Trauma Management Grief and Loss (including Pathological Grieving) Anger Management & Emotional Regulation Difficulties Dependency Disorders (Alcohol, Substance Abuse, Gambling) Conflict and Crisis Management Adjustment Disorder Relocation Issues
(03) 9133 0996 View (03) 9133 0996
Photo of Xuan Tan - Xuan Tan - Clin Psych - People Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Xuan Tan - Clin Psych - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Brighton, VIC 3186
Clinical Psychologist Xuan (pronounced "Shen") Tan provides evidence-based and person-centred treatment with adolescents, adults, couples and families from diverse cultural, linguistic, and economic backgrounds. Xuan has multilingual skills and can deliver services in English or in Mandarin 说中文 She aims to provide a warm space where clients could form an in-depth understanding of themselves, to reflect on existing or past experiences, and to learn and grow at a pace that suits them.
Clinical Psychologist Xuan (pronounced "Shen") Tan provides evidence-based and person-centred treatment with adolescents, adults, couples and families from diverse cultural, linguistic, and economic backgrounds. Xuan has multilingual skills and can deliver services in English or in Mandarin 说中文 She aims to provide a warm space where clients could form an in-depth understanding of themselves, to reflect on existing or past experiences, and to learn and grow at a pace that suits them.
(03) 7003 2350 View (03) 7003 2350
Photo of Dr Carol Choo - Dr Carol Choo - Clin Psych - People Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Carol Choo - Clin Psych - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Brighton, VIC 3186
Carol holds a Doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology and has been practicing as a registered Psychologist for over 20 years, at various settings including private practice, mental health and community sectors. Carol offers telehealth appointments only, she has expertise in working with depression, anxiety, stress, and is keen to assist adults with general psychological issues and enhance their resilience, but also has multilingual skills, delivers services in English, Chinese ( 说中文, Mandarin and Cantonese), and interest in working with migrants and clients from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
Carol holds a Doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology and has been practicing as a registered Psychologist for over 20 years, at various settings including private practice, mental health and community sectors. Carol offers telehealth appointments only, she has expertise in working with depression, anxiety, stress, and is keen to assist adults with general psychological issues and enhance their resilience, but also has multilingual skills, delivers services in English, Chinese ( 说中文, Mandarin and Cantonese), and interest in working with migrants and clients from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
(03) 9994 1778 View (03) 9994 1778
Photo of Samantha Cooper - Samantha Cooper - People Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Samantha Cooper - People Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Brighton, VIC 3186
Get help by seeing Samantha, who has extensive experience with: Anxiety Depression Chronic Illness Trauma Grief and Loss Domestic Violence Adjustment challenges Relationship challenges Parenting challenges Drug and alcohol challenges Medicare, Private Health Insurers, NDIS provider Psychologist Reports About Samantha Cooper is a warm and compassionate psychologist with more than 20 years experience supporting individuals through challenges. She is passionate about empowering individuals to overcome challenges, achieve personal growth, and lead fulfilling lives. Samantha aspires to create a supportive and inclusive environment.
Get help by seeing Samantha, who has extensive experience with: Anxiety Depression Chronic Illness Trauma Grief and Loss Domestic Violence Adjustment challenges Relationship challenges Parenting challenges Drug and alcohol challenges Medicare, Private Health Insurers, NDIS provider Psychologist Reports About Samantha Cooper is a warm and compassionate psychologist with more than 20 years experience supporting individuals through challenges. She is passionate about empowering individuals to overcome challenges, achieve personal growth, and lead fulfilling lives. Samantha aspires to create a supportive and inclusive environment.
(03) 9133 0996 View (03) 9133 0996
Photo of Fiona Halliday - People Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Fiona Halliday - People Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Brighton, VIC 3186
Get help by seeing Fiona, who has extensive experience with: Women’s issues Domestic Abuse Domestic Violence (DV) Family Violence Stress management Anxiety Depression Self esteem Assertiveness Identity issues Change and transition Grief and bereavement Wellbeing and balance Self-Esteem Life Coaching Spirituality Meaning and Purpose Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) Issues, Counselling, Coaching and De-Briefing Workplace Issues Workplace Bullying Medicare, Private Health Insurers provider Psychologist Reports
Get help by seeing Fiona, who has extensive experience with: Women’s issues Domestic Abuse Domestic Violence (DV) Family Violence Stress management Anxiety Depression Self esteem Assertiveness Identity issues Change and transition Grief and bereavement Wellbeing and balance Self-Esteem Life Coaching Spirituality Meaning and Purpose Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) Issues, Counselling, Coaching and De-Briefing Workplace Issues Workplace Bullying Medicare, Private Health Insurers provider Psychologist Reports
(03) 7003 2481 View (03) 7003 2481
Photo of Claire Avenell - Claire Avenell - People Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Claire Avenell - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Brighton, VIC 3186
Get help by seeing Claire, who has extensive experience with: Adults & Adolescent / Teenager (17-19 years) Issues ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) & ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) Anger Management & Aggression Anxiety Disorders (including Social Anxiety, Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and Health Anxiety) ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) (LEVEL 1 ONLY) Assertiveness Building Self-Esteem Burnout Career Issues Coaching & Personal Development Communication skills Coping Skills Cyclothymia (Shorter-Term Mania & Depression) Depression and Low Mood Fear of Failure Infidelity & Cheating Issues
Get help by seeing Claire, who has extensive experience with: Adults & Adolescent / Teenager (17-19 years) Issues ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) & ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) Anger Management & Aggression Anxiety Disorders (including Social Anxiety, Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and Health Anxiety) ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) (LEVEL 1 ONLY) Assertiveness Building Self-Esteem Burnout Career Issues Coaching & Personal Development Communication skills Coping Skills Cyclothymia (Shorter-Term Mania & Depression) Depression and Low Mood Fear of Failure Infidelity & Cheating Issues
(03) 9133 0996 View (03) 9133 0996
Photo of Dr Claudine Martijn - Dr Claudine Martijn - People Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Claudine Martijn - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Brighton, VIC 3186
Dr Claudine Martijn (pronounced “Martin”), clinical psychologist, can help you and has extensive experience with multiple psychological, emotional, and mental health needs, including: Stress Anxiety Panic Attacks & Anxiety Phobias (Fear of specific things / situations) Agoraphobia / Social Anxiety Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) & Anxiety Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) Depression Depressive Disorders Perinatal Psychology / Mental Health including Post Natal Depression (PND) Pregnancy Counselling Antenatal Depression Parenting issues Bipoloar Disorder (BD) Grief and Loss and PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder)
Dr Claudine Martijn (pronounced “Martin”), clinical psychologist, can help you and has extensive experience with multiple psychological, emotional, and mental health needs, including: Stress Anxiety Panic Attacks & Anxiety Phobias (Fear of specific things / situations) Agoraphobia / Social Anxiety Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) & Anxiety Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) Depression Depressive Disorders Perinatal Psychology / Mental Health including Post Natal Depression (PND) Pregnancy Counselling Antenatal Depression Parenting issues Bipoloar Disorder (BD) Grief and Loss and PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder)
(03) 7003 2516 View (03) 7003 2516
Photo of Anita Bonollo - People Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Anita Bonollo - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Brighton, VIC 3186
Anita works with clients of all ages and diverse backgrounds including individuals, couples and adolescents. She has extensive experience counselling clients and can help you with anxiety, stress, panic attacks, or depression; coping with pain, post-trauma (PTSD), OCD, or workplace issues; managing weight loss; couples therapy and sports psychology. How can Anita help you? Whether you need support, guidance, motivation, or counselling, she can assist you in your journey. Please feel free to book an initial consultation with her.
Anita works with clients of all ages and diverse backgrounds including individuals, couples and adolescents. She has extensive experience counselling clients and can help you with anxiety, stress, panic attacks, or depression; coping with pain, post-trauma (PTSD), OCD, or workplace issues; managing weight loss; couples therapy and sports psychology. How can Anita help you? Whether you need support, guidance, motivation, or counselling, she can assist you in your journey. Please feel free to book an initial consultation with her.
(03) 9068 5232 View (03) 9068 5232
Photo of Ray Elliott - Ray Elliott - People Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA - Org. Psych.
Ray Elliott - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA - Org. Psych.
Brighton, VIC 3186
Ray is an Organisational and Supervising Psychologist – AHPRA endorsed – with 25 years experience in general psychology practice. He empathetically engages with clients across the life span. His clients include couples, adolescents and families and adults in diverse contexts.
Ray is an Organisational and Supervising Psychologist – AHPRA endorsed – with 25 years experience in general psychology practice. He empathetically engages with clients across the life span. His clients include couples, adolescents and families and adults in diverse contexts.
(03) 7003 2592 View (03) 7003 2592
Photo of Suzanne Klotz, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Suzanne Klotz
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Brighton, VIC 3186
Get help by seeing Suzanne, who has extensive experience with: Anxiety, Panic Attacks & Anxiety Stress, Phobias (Fear of specific things / situations), Depression, Grief & Loss, Bereavement, Relationship Issues, Couples Counselling, Marriage Counselling, Premarital Counselling, Workplace Stress, Alcohol Abuse & Dependency, PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), Trauma, Adjustment Disorder, ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) & ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), Adoption Issues, Anger Management, Bipolar Disorder (BD), Career Guidance, Chronic Pain, Codependency Disorder & Divorce Counselling
Get help by seeing Suzanne, who has extensive experience with: Anxiety, Panic Attacks & Anxiety Stress, Phobias (Fear of specific things / situations), Depression, Grief & Loss, Bereavement, Relationship Issues, Couples Counselling, Marriage Counselling, Premarital Counselling, Workplace Stress, Alcohol Abuse & Dependency, PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), Trauma, Adjustment Disorder, ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) & ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), Adoption Issues, Anger Management, Bipolar Disorder (BD), Career Guidance, Chronic Pain, Codependency Disorder & Divorce Counselling
(03) 7003 2585 View (03) 7003 2585

See more therapy options for 3186

How does your Counsellor compare?

Number of Counsellors in 3186

100+

Average cost per session

$200

Counsellors in 3186 who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
83% Depression
76% Self Esteem
76% Stress
70% Relationship Issues
63% Trauma and PTSD
62% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

69% Medicare Rebates
54% Medibank Private
52% Bupa

How Counsellors in 3186 see their clients

85% In Person and Online
15% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
22% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling

How can I find a therapist in 3186?

Search for nearby psychologists or counsellors by inputting your city, suburb, postcode, or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or postcode into the search bar.

Learn more about how to find a therapist

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?

Counsellors and Psychotherapists listed in the directory are members of the main professional associations, mainly the Australian Counselling Association and the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia. Psychologists must be registered in the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). Most Social Workers listed in the directory are members of the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW).

Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given that professional memberships are not a statutory requirement for social workers, psychotherapists and counsellors in Australia, certain qualified professionals or organisations may choose not to maintain such memberships despite possessing the necessary qualifications. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

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

Counsellors, psychotherapists and psychologists can all provide counselling or talking therapy and have credentials and experience that enable them to do so in Australia.

Psychologists have earned a 4 year undergraduate degree in psychology and have completed a postgraduate internship or postgraduate degree. Psychotherapists generally have an undergraduate degree in a health related field in addition to 3-4 years of specialist training in psychotherapy and a period of personal psychotherapy. In order to belong to a professional organisation such as the ACA or PACFA, counsellors and psychotherapists are required to have completed a certain level of AQF qualifications and/ or an approved training course as well as clinical and supervision hours. Social Workers registered with the AASW are required to have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Social Work from an accredited institution.

What type of therapy is right for me?

The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.

How much does therapy cost?

The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, the cost of a therapy session in Australia could be between $100 and $250. If you have private insurance, your plan may cover some if not all of your sessions. You should contact your insurance provider to determine if they provide coverage for therapy sessions and to determine what, if any, requirements they might have in order for your sessions to be covered, such as a referral from your GP or medical specialist.

What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?

Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.

If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. The Better Access Scheme is a government program offering Medicare rebates for mental health care. To access the program you will need to be assessed and diagnosed by your GP and get a Mental Health Plan. This will allow you to receive up to 10 individual sessions and 10 group sessions a year with practitioners who accept bulk billing, with no out of pocket costs for you.

Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?

Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.

Is online therapy a good option?

Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your postcode.

Are therapy sessions confidential?

Therapists who are part of a professional organisation such as the ACA, PACFA, or the APS are bound by an ethical framework that requires them to uphold a confidentiality agreement. Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship and only under specific circumstances, such as when there is the potential or known harm to the client or others or when a minor is in danger, will a therapist be obligated to break the agreement. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed during the initial consultation.