Psychologists and Therapists in Blakehurst, NSW

Photo of Julie Lorente, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Julie Lorente
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
At Julie Lorente Counselling, I support NDIS and non-NDIS clients on their journey to well-being and growth. I specialise in managing anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem challenges, and life transitions, and I offer children’s counselling for anxiety and parental separation. For professionals, I provide executive coaching to build confidence and resilience. As an NDIS-registered provider, I deliver disability Therapeutic Support (15 043 0128 1 3) and Employment-Related Counselling (10 011 0128 5 3) to empower individuals to enhance well-being, build skills, and achieve personal and professional goals.
At Julie Lorente Counselling, I support NDIS and non-NDIS clients on their journey to well-being and growth. I specialise in managing anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem challenges, and life transitions, and I offer children’s counselling for anxiety and parental separation. For professionals, I provide executive coaching to build confidence and resilience. As an NDIS-registered provider, I deliver disability Therapeutic Support (15 043 0128 1 3) and Employment-Related Counselling (10 011 0128 5 3) to empower individuals to enhance well-being, build skills, and achieve personal and professional goals.
(02) 7501 1613 View (02) 7501 1613
Photo of Chelsea Ho, Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Chelsea Ho
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Chelsea is a warm and empathic psychologist. As therapy can be a vulnerable but rewarding experience, Chelsea brings compassion, curiosity, and humour where appropriate to create a safe space to explore your experiences. Chelsea is trained in providing therapy for a range of mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, stress, psychosis, eating disorders, and trauma. She has particular interest and training in working with adolescents and adults with eating disorders.
Chelsea is a warm and empathic psychologist. As therapy can be a vulnerable but rewarding experience, Chelsea brings compassion, curiosity, and humour where appropriate to create a safe space to explore your experiences. Chelsea is trained in providing therapy for a range of mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, stress, psychosis, eating disorders, and trauma. She has particular interest and training in working with adolescents and adults with eating disorders.
(02) 8105 5269 View (02) 8105 5269
Photo of Alyssia Simos, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Alyssia Simos
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Alyssia is a genuine, warm and relatable therapist who utilises a collaborative approach to therapy. She introduces evidence-based skills in a thoughtful and tailored manner, as you work together to overcome your specific challenges. Alyssia has experience across both public and private sectors and works with a range of psychological difficulties including depression, anxiety, self-harm post-traumatic stress disorder, complex trauma, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, learning difficulties, autism spectrum disorder, difficulties with emotion regulation, personality disorders, addiction, and chronic pain.
Alyssia is a genuine, warm and relatable therapist who utilises a collaborative approach to therapy. She introduces evidence-based skills in a thoughtful and tailored manner, as you work together to overcome your specific challenges. Alyssia has experience across both public and private sectors and works with a range of psychological difficulties including depression, anxiety, self-harm post-traumatic stress disorder, complex trauma, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, learning difficulties, autism spectrum disorder, difficulties with emotion regulation, personality disorders, addiction, and chronic pain.
(02) 8105 5715 View (02) 8105 5715
Photo of Georgia Ashworth, Psychologist
Georgia Ashworth
Psychologist
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Georgia is a psychologist at the Australian Institute for Human Wellness. She has a genuine and empathetic therapeutic style, committed to providing a non-judgemental space to achieve therapeutic goals through evidence-based psychological therapy. Georgia is a registered psychologist and clinical psychology registrar who completed her Masters of Clinical Psychology at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), as well as previous studies in psychology at Macquarie University (MQ) and the Australian College of Applied Psychology (ACAP). She has an interest in public health, having completed research on gambling and drug addictions.
Georgia is a psychologist at the Australian Institute for Human Wellness. She has a genuine and empathetic therapeutic style, committed to providing a non-judgemental space to achieve therapeutic goals through evidence-based psychological therapy. Georgia is a registered psychologist and clinical psychology registrar who completed her Masters of Clinical Psychology at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), as well as previous studies in psychology at Macquarie University (MQ) and the Australian College of Applied Psychology (ACAP). She has an interest in public health, having completed research on gambling and drug addictions.
(02) 8105 5765 View (02) 8105 5765
Photo of Breanna Crkovski, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Breanna Crkovski
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Breanna is a clinical psychologist who loves to help people heal from trauma, understand the root causes of their struggles and engage with deep exploration of the self. She works with complex trauma, emotion dysregulation, and maladaptive patterns. She uses a compassionate and trauma informed approach which includes modalities such as EMDR, Schema, and DBT. Goals in therapy with Breanna often involve both healing and self actualisation. Breanna also offers comprehensive diagnostic assessments.
Breanna is a clinical psychologist who loves to help people heal from trauma, understand the root causes of their struggles and engage with deep exploration of the self. She works with complex trauma, emotion dysregulation, and maladaptive patterns. She uses a compassionate and trauma informed approach which includes modalities such as EMDR, Schema, and DBT. Goals in therapy with Breanna often involve both healing and self actualisation. Breanna also offers comprehensive diagnostic assessments.
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Photo of Kristen Bayliss, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Kristen Bayliss
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Trauma & Attachment Psychologist, Couples Therapist. Whether single or in a relationship you struggle with uncertainty, fear, a rollercoaster of emotions or a sense of doom. You doubt whether you are ever going to feel settled, confident or secure in relationships. Time and time again, after a honeymoon period, the same pattern shows up, either cold distance or heated fighting. You don't know how to get through so you overthink or get overwhelmed & attack or freeze wondering when it will end. Maybe an sense of relief when it does. Then loneliness sets in and the search starts again.
Trauma & Attachment Psychologist, Couples Therapist. Whether single or in a relationship you struggle with uncertainty, fear, a rollercoaster of emotions or a sense of doom. You doubt whether you are ever going to feel settled, confident or secure in relationships. Time and time again, after a honeymoon period, the same pattern shows up, either cold distance or heated fighting. You don't know how to get through so you overthink or get overwhelmed & attack or freeze wondering when it will end. Maybe an sense of relief when it does. Then loneliness sets in and the search starts again.
(02) 7501 0936 View (02) 7501 0936
Photo of Irene Valis, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Irene Valis
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
Welcome. My heartfelt intention is to hold a safe and supportive space for women to feel heard, healed and whole. Using mindbody principles of Gestalt Therapy and Polyvagal theory, I offer a personalised, relational and embodied approach to supporting women who may be experiencing a disconnect from themselves, others or their environment - whether it be through emotional dysregulation, physical burnout, or mental overwhelm. By healing past emotional wounding and undoing old beliefs that impede and impact life in the present, our work together addresses the root causes for lasting change and a sense of coming home to oneself.
Welcome. My heartfelt intention is to hold a safe and supportive space for women to feel heard, healed and whole. Using mindbody principles of Gestalt Therapy and Polyvagal theory, I offer a personalised, relational and embodied approach to supporting women who may be experiencing a disconnect from themselves, others or their environment - whether it be through emotional dysregulation, physical burnout, or mental overwhelm. By healing past emotional wounding and undoing old beliefs that impede and impact life in the present, our work together addresses the root causes for lasting change and a sense of coming home to oneself.
(02) 8105 5981 View (02) 8105 5981

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Stefan Durlach, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA Endorsed
Stefan Durlach
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000
Life has its challenges at times, and there can be a great need to talk about some issues. We may feel uncomfortable talking to family and friends about things like grief we still experience following the death of a significant person many years ago, or abuse we’ve suffered in our childhoods. We may have grown up in a volatile and stressful family environment with unsupportive or even punitive parents, and the prospect of expecting or having a baby ourselves is making us feel anxious or depressed. We may have been struggling with weight issues or sleep problems for too many years, or are haunted by disturbing dreams.
Life has its challenges at times, and there can be a great need to talk about some issues. We may feel uncomfortable talking to family and friends about things like grief we still experience following the death of a significant person many years ago, or abuse we’ve suffered in our childhoods. We may have grown up in a volatile and stressful family environment with unsupportive or even punitive parents, and the prospect of expecting or having a baby ourselves is making us feel anxious or depressed. We may have been struggling with weight issues or sleep problems for too many years, or are haunted by disturbing dreams.
(02) 9158 6693 View (02) 9158 6693
Photo of Ash Rehn, Social Worker, MSc, AMHSW
Ash Rehn
Social Worker, MSc, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Surry Hills, NSW 2010
I work with people exploring sexuality, relationships, and the impact of religious trauma or coercive control as well as LGBTQ+ clients and men seeking to change their pornography use. As a Medicare provider, counsellor and psychotherapist, I offer a space to think out loud, be heard, and make sense of your experience. My approach is conversational and grounded in psychological strategies, helping you build trust in yourself and develop a more workable relationship with others. We can also explore patterns that keep you stuck and find new ways forward.
I work with people exploring sexuality, relationships, and the impact of religious trauma or coercive control as well as LGBTQ+ clients and men seeking to change their pornography use. As a Medicare provider, counsellor and psychotherapist, I offer a space to think out loud, be heard, and make sense of your experience. My approach is conversational and grounded in psychological strategies, helping you build trust in yourself and develop a more workable relationship with others. We can also explore patterns that keep you stuck and find new ways forward.
(02) 9100 0518 View (02) 9100 0518
Photo of Dr Koren Ganas, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Koren Ganas
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Seeking support can feel daunting, especially when you're in a high-demand, high-pressure role where others rely on you. My practice offers a discreet, highly personalised space where you don’t have to hold it all together. We’ll work collaboratively to understand your needs, address the pressures you face, and with my 15 years of expertise, I will tailor an approach that supports both your authentic well-being. With a boutique, concierge-style experience, you’ll receive the highest level of individualised care designed to fit you. You are more than the demands you face—let’s create a path that helps you thrive.
Seeking support can feel daunting, especially when you're in a high-demand, high-pressure role where others rely on you. My practice offers a discreet, highly personalised space where you don’t have to hold it all together. We’ll work collaboratively to understand your needs, address the pressures you face, and with my 15 years of expertise, I will tailor an approach that supports both your authentic well-being. With a boutique, concierge-style experience, you’ll receive the highest level of individualised care designed to fit you. You are more than the demands you face—let’s create a path that helps you thrive.
(08) 6834 7305 View (08) 6834 7305
Photo of Alena Piccolruaz, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Alena Piccolruaz
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I work with children, adolescents, and families with a special interest in supporting people with any type of trauma and am trained in trauma-informed therapies e.g EMDR, Brainspotting and Neurofeedback. I also support mums and dads through pregnancy and post-pregnancy. Issues treated (but not limited to) include; anxiety, stress, depression, neurodiversity, school issues, suicidal thinking, personality disorders, anger management, gender transitioning, self-harm, grief and loss, Workcover, Narcissistic Abuse and Domestic Violence/relationship issues, court/legal reports and parenting skills. I am also a Board Approved Supervisor.
I work with children, adolescents, and families with a special interest in supporting people with any type of trauma and am trained in trauma-informed therapies e.g EMDR, Brainspotting and Neurofeedback. I also support mums and dads through pregnancy and post-pregnancy. Issues treated (but not limited to) include; anxiety, stress, depression, neurodiversity, school issues, suicidal thinking, personality disorders, anger management, gender transitioning, self-harm, grief and loss, Workcover, Narcissistic Abuse and Domestic Violence/relationship issues, court/legal reports and parenting skills. I am also a Board Approved Supervisor.
(02) 9159 6930 View (02) 9159 6930
Photo of Emma Langton - The Flawed Journey
The Flawed Journey
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I’m Emma, founder of The Flawed Journey a private practice I created in 2019 to offer a space that feels real, safe, and deeply supportive. I work with adults who feel stuck in patterns that no longer serve them - overthinking, people-pleasing, anxiety that spirals, low self-esteem, or the lingering impact of childhood experiences. You might feel disconnected from yourself, struggling in your relationships, or wondering why you keep repeating the same patterns even when you know they’re not helping. Maybe you’re simply tired of carrying everything alone.
Hello, I’m Emma, founder of The Flawed Journey a private practice I created in 2019 to offer a space that feels real, safe, and deeply supportive. I work with adults who feel stuck in patterns that no longer serve them - overthinking, people-pleasing, anxiety that spirals, low self-esteem, or the lingering impact of childhood experiences. You might feel disconnected from yourself, struggling in your relationships, or wondering why you keep repeating the same patterns even when you know they’re not helping. Maybe you’re simply tired of carrying everything alone.
(02) 8294 7878 x61 View (02) 8294 7878 x61
Photo of Maria Simonetta, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Maria Simonetta
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Summer Hill, NSW 2130
When lingering or reoccurring issues arise they create within us a dissatisfaction about life and how we feel about ourselves. Issues such as relationship difficulties, addictions, career, life transitions, parenting, depression, anxiety, stress, body image, negative beliefs and thoughts, emotional overwhelm, aggression, low energy, impulsivity etc. can affect your self esteem and your ability to think clearly and solve problems effectively. Learning new skills, building on resilience and resources and dealing with past issues that affect your present life can be empowering and create satisfaction and fulfilment in your life.
When lingering or reoccurring issues arise they create within us a dissatisfaction about life and how we feel about ourselves. Issues such as relationship difficulties, addictions, career, life transitions, parenting, depression, anxiety, stress, body image, negative beliefs and thoughts, emotional overwhelm, aggression, low energy, impulsivity etc. can affect your self esteem and your ability to think clearly and solve problems effectively. Learning new skills, building on resilience and resources and dealing with past issues that affect your present life can be empowering and create satisfaction and fulfilment in your life.
(02) 8073 9397 View (02) 8073 9397
Photo of Dr Maya Flexer, Psychotherapist, PsychD
Dr Maya Flexer
Psychotherapist, PsychD
Double Bay, NSW 2028
Maya works with children and young people aged 0-25, and their families, to help with: Low mood and depression, anxiety and stress, self-esteem, identity and personal development, grief and bereavement, divorce and family conflict, friendships and relationships, transitions, difficulties in learning and distractibility, neurodevelopmental difficulties, autism, trauma, developmental difficulties (eg. feeding, toileting and boundaries), behavioural problems, anger issues, sleeping difficulties, separation anxiety and attachment difficulties, OCD, eating disorders, phobias, impulsivity and addiction.
Maya works with children and young people aged 0-25, and their families, to help with: Low mood and depression, anxiety and stress, self-esteem, identity and personal development, grief and bereavement, divorce and family conflict, friendships and relationships, transitions, difficulties in learning and distractibility, neurodevelopmental difficulties, autism, trauma, developmental difficulties (eg. feeding, toileting and boundaries), behavioural problems, anger issues, sleeping difficulties, separation anxiety and attachment difficulties, OCD, eating disorders, phobias, impulsivity and addiction.
0459 416 726 View 0459 416 726
Photo of Stephen Moore, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Stephen Moore
Psychotherapist, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000
Inner Strength Therapy offers counselling in Sydney for trauma and anxiety to individuals and couples who are finding life challenging and stressful due to adverse past trauma. We address and treat a wide range of mental health issues including mood and anxiety disorders and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Counselling and Therapy are about healing and finding your way again towards a life of contentment and purpose. Sometimes this comes down to simply talking it out with an understanding and perceptive person trained in areas of counselling.
Inner Strength Therapy offers counselling in Sydney for trauma and anxiety to individuals and couples who are finding life challenging and stressful due to adverse past trauma. We address and treat a wide range of mental health issues including mood and anxiety disorders and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Counselling and Therapy are about healing and finding your way again towards a life of contentment and purpose. Sometimes this comes down to simply talking it out with an understanding and perceptive person trained in areas of counselling.
(02) 8294 7054 View (02) 8294 7054
Photo of Nikita Samiotis, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Nikita Samiotis
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Surry Hills, NSW 2010
Not accepting new clients
NOT accepting new clients! - Comprehensive adult autism/ADHD assessment, report, and ongoing coaching. Call/email to enquire! - - - My therapy clients are often in their 20s and 30s, navigating a period of reflection or change. They’ve started noticing patterns in their relationships, emotions, or behaviours that keep repeating and causing distress or unwanted outcomes. They want to understand why these patterns happen and how to change them. Some are facing major life transitions—such as a breakup, becoming a parent, or exploring their identity—while others simply feel ready to build deeper self-awareness and create lasting change.
NOT accepting new clients! - Comprehensive adult autism/ADHD assessment, report, and ongoing coaching. Call/email to enquire! - - - My therapy clients are often in their 20s and 30s, navigating a period of reflection or change. They’ve started noticing patterns in their relationships, emotions, or behaviours that keep repeating and causing distress or unwanted outcomes. They want to understand why these patterns happen and how to change them. Some are facing major life transitions—such as a breakup, becoming a parent, or exploring their identity—while others simply feel ready to build deeper self-awareness and create lasting change.
(02) 9100 0701 View (02) 9100 0701
Photo of Krutika M, Psychotherapist, MPsych, PACFA
Krutika M
Psychotherapist, MPsych, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000
Life can sometimes feel confusing and overwhelming, leaving us unsure of where to go next or what to do. In those moments, the sense of being stuck can be unsettling, making us question everything. Our thoughts, feelings, and actions may feel unclear. Yet, there's a part of us that yearns to grow—a curious part that seeks to learn and evolve through these experiences. This part wants to develop emotional resilience, embrace uncertainty, and foster greater self-awareness. Ultimately, it's the part that strives to become the most authentic and reliable version of ourselves.
Life can sometimes feel confusing and overwhelming, leaving us unsure of where to go next or what to do. In those moments, the sense of being stuck can be unsettling, making us question everything. Our thoughts, feelings, and actions may feel unclear. Yet, there's a part of us that yearns to grow—a curious part that seeks to learn and evolve through these experiences. This part wants to develop emotional resilience, embrace uncertainty, and foster greater self-awareness. Ultimately, it's the part that strives to become the most authentic and reliable version of ourselves.
(02) 9158 6366 View (02) 9158 6366
Photo of Sophie Georgeson, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Sophie Georgeson
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Sophie is a registered Psychologist and sees adults and teens in Brisbane / Meanjin / Magandjin for trauma-informed, evidence-based, and neuro-affirming therapy. Sophie supports clients with anxiety, stress, trauma, depression, big emotions, life changes, coping with chronic illness, relationships, grief / loss, identity and meaning challenges, learning difficulties, managing differences in executive functioning and sensory differences, neurodivergent burnout. Sophie is safe and affirming of client experiences as part of LGBTQIA+ communities, neurodivergent communities, or particular to cultural or religious background.
Sophie is a registered Psychologist and sees adults and teens in Brisbane / Meanjin / Magandjin for trauma-informed, evidence-based, and neuro-affirming therapy. Sophie supports clients with anxiety, stress, trauma, depression, big emotions, life changes, coping with chronic illness, relationships, grief / loss, identity and meaning challenges, learning difficulties, managing differences in executive functioning and sensory differences, neurodivergent burnout. Sophie is safe and affirming of client experiences as part of LGBTQIA+ communities, neurodivergent communities, or particular to cultural or religious background.
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Photo of Veronica Ing, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Veronica Ing
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Fairfield, NSW 2165
I practice as a Clinical Psychologist and I am passionate about implementing holistic practices to help people live a more authentic, compassionate and fulfilling life. I have a particular interest in self-development and spirituality. I work with adult clients who present with low mood, anxiety, panic and worry, symptoms of acute and complex trauma, emotion regulation difficulties, anger problems, feelings of overwhelm or stress, chronic pain, low self-worth, feeling lost or stuck in life, relationship concerns, family dynamic difficulties, existential and spiritual concerns, and adjusting to major life transitions.
I practice as a Clinical Psychologist and I am passionate about implementing holistic practices to help people live a more authentic, compassionate and fulfilling life. I have a particular interest in self-development and spirituality. I work with adult clients who present with low mood, anxiety, panic and worry, symptoms of acute and complex trauma, emotion regulation difficulties, anger problems, feelings of overwhelm or stress, chronic pain, low self-worth, feeling lost or stuck in life, relationship concerns, family dynamic difficulties, existential and spiritual concerns, and adjusting to major life transitions.
(02) 8105 6236 View (02) 8105 6236
Photo of Dr Cory Middleton - Relationship-Talk: Dr Cory Middleton, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Relationship-Talk: Dr Cory Middleton
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Sydney, NSW 2000
Highly experienced Senior Psychologist supporting depression, stress, anxiety, grief, relationship stress and dysfunction, marriage counselling, workplace stress, burnout, trauma and men's issues. Dr Cory Middleton provides experienced professional skill in guiding you through life's challenges. Practical, relatable strategies for real people (no fluff). Mood disturbances: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy(CBT), Acceptance-Commitment Therapy(ACT), Emotion-Focused Therapy(EFT) Relationships: Gottman Method, Transactional Analysis (TA), EFT Grief: McKissock Infinity Model, Thomas Attig - how we grieve, ACT, Dual-process
Highly experienced Senior Psychologist supporting depression, stress, anxiety, grief, relationship stress and dysfunction, marriage counselling, workplace stress, burnout, trauma and men's issues. Dr Cory Middleton provides experienced professional skill in guiding you through life's challenges. Practical, relatable strategies for real people (no fluff). Mood disturbances: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy(CBT), Acceptance-Commitment Therapy(ACT), Emotion-Focused Therapy(EFT) Relationships: Gottman Method, Transactional Analysis (TA), EFT Grief: McKissock Infinity Model, Thomas Attig - how we grieve, ACT, Dual-process
(02) 9100 0542 View (02) 9100 0542

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Psychologists and Therapists in Blakehurst, NSW

< 10

Psychologists and Therapists in Blakehurst, NSW who prioritize treating:

71% Depression
71% Anxiety
71% Self Esteem
71% Stress
57% Relationship Issues
57% Trauma and PTSD
57% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% Medicare Rebates
60% NDIS
20% Bupa

How Psychologists and Therapists in Blakehurst, NSW see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling

How can I find a therapist in Blakehurst?

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.