Counselling in Wollongong, NSW
![Photo of Ayesha Nhem, PACFA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b5964b1-9d91-47f8-8184-39afd782155d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Worries, frustrations, and disappointments are common in life. But no matter if your issues are current or recurrent, the right step is to seek help. Even if your problems right now feel like they're getting the best of you - know that there is help available for this! It takes courage to seek help and I'm glad you're here. You deserve to live a life that makes you excited to get up in the morning. As your therapist, I will help you deal with emotional and behavioural problems more effectively.
Worries, frustrations, and disappointments are common in life. But no matter if your issues are current or recurrent, the right step is to seek help. Even if your problems right now feel like they're getting the best of you - know that there is help available for this! It takes courage to seek help and I'm glad you're here. You deserve to live a life that makes you excited to get up in the morning. As your therapist, I will help you deal with emotional and behavioural problems more effectively.
![Photo of Jane Woodbridge, PhD, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/06dfee18-5f37-419f-997d-ff8b92639731/2/320x400.jpeg)
Offering 10 session individualised DBT programs and EMDR.
Offering 10 session individualised DBT programs and EMDR.
![Photo of Elizabeth Anne O'Neill, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44316b9c-b28f-420f-a05e-989e02696630/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Anne O'Neill
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500 (Online Only)
I provide evidence-based, individualized & holistic counselling for managing issues & diagnosis. I offer a wide range of coping skills for many mental health conditions (ie. anxiety, depression & Post Traumatic Stress Disorder PTSD). I provide Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for PTSD. I offer Schema Therapy. I work with identity issues, grief, gender issues, work stress & relationship stress. I explore individual concerns respectfully & practically for recovery from mental health & issues of distress. I have +20yrs exp. Video sessions available. Also supervision provided.
I provide evidence-based, individualized & holistic counselling for managing issues & diagnosis. I offer a wide range of coping skills for many mental health conditions (ie. anxiety, depression & Post Traumatic Stress Disorder PTSD). I provide Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for PTSD. I offer Schema Therapy. I work with identity issues, grief, gender issues, work stress & relationship stress. I explore individual concerns respectfully & practically for recovery from mental health & issues of distress. I have +20yrs exp. Video sessions available. Also supervision provided.
![Photo of Mathew Aquilina, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b256061f-b890-48eb-8551-46a131e12f3f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mathew Aquilina
Psychologist, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
I am a registered psychologist and board-approved clinical supervisor. A decade of experience in the psychology field has seen me undertake a variety of work including: child and adolescent therapy; parenting support; group facilitation; university student counselling; adult therapy; clinical supervision; and service management. I practice from an attachment-based and relational framework and am trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT); Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT); Schema Therapy; Psychodynamic therapy; the Circle of Security protocol; and the 'Becoming Us' Perinatal Mental Health Facilitator Training.
I am a registered psychologist and board-approved clinical supervisor. A decade of experience in the psychology field has seen me undertake a variety of work including: child and adolescent therapy; parenting support; group facilitation; university student counselling; adult therapy; clinical supervision; and service management. I practice from an attachment-based and relational framework and am trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT); Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT); Schema Therapy; Psychodynamic therapy; the Circle of Security protocol; and the 'Becoming Us' Perinatal Mental Health Facilitator Training.
![Photo of Mark Baxter - The Psychology Spot, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a69bd54d-c4ea-43ac-80ec-f22e56e3fc91/1/320x400.png)
You might need help with a mental health problem, personal crisis, difficult transition, significant loss, or the breakdown of a relationship. You might be feeling stuck and looking to break out of unhelpful patterns but lacking the energy or support to make positive changes in your life. Our team of 10 psychologists offer evidence-based psychological therapy that can help you find relief. Many people struggle to recover on their own and seeing a psychologist can really help. We see adults, adolescents, children and couples. Medicare rebates are available with a GP referral and we also see people through the NDIS.
You might need help with a mental health problem, personal crisis, difficult transition, significant loss, or the breakdown of a relationship. You might be feeling stuck and looking to break out of unhelpful patterns but lacking the energy or support to make positive changes in your life. Our team of 10 psychologists offer evidence-based psychological therapy that can help you find relief. Many people struggle to recover on their own and seeing a psychologist can really help. We see adults, adolescents, children and couples. Medicare rebates are available with a GP referral and we also see people through the NDIS.
![Photo of Sam Manago, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77be7e69-b21c-42f2-871b-1767e52bfa2b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sam is a Registered Psychologist with over 16 years’ experience in clinical, workers compensation, education, and disability settings. Sam has worked with diverse populations young and old with clients from different backgrounds and abilities, to help reach their mental health or career goals. Sam has a particular interest and expertise working with adults who have perfectionism and people pleasing traits. He uses a tailored approach to counselling using a blend of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) in combination with mindfulness techniques.
Sam is a Registered Psychologist with over 16 years’ experience in clinical, workers compensation, education, and disability settings. Sam has worked with diverse populations young and old with clients from different backgrounds and abilities, to help reach their mental health or career goals. Sam has a particular interest and expertise working with adults who have perfectionism and people pleasing traits. He uses a tailored approach to counselling using a blend of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) in combination with mindfulness techniques.
![Photo of Klaudia Gebert, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eae24c51-ac47-46cf-8d7c-37230553bd9e/2/320x400.png)
Klaudia believes in working collaboratively with you to help you achieve your therapeutic goals. She understands that each experience is unique, and therefore treatment must be tailored to meet individual needs. Klaudia goes beyond a band-aid treatment approach to help you understand your underlying causes, what perpetuates your current difficulties and empowers you to make lifelong sustainable changes. She has an approach that is both warm and empathically challenging to help you build motivation and accountability, while getting your needs met through the therapeutic journey.
Klaudia believes in working collaboratively with you to help you achieve your therapeutic goals. She understands that each experience is unique, and therefore treatment must be tailored to meet individual needs. Klaudia goes beyond a band-aid treatment approach to help you understand your underlying causes, what perpetuates your current difficulties and empowers you to make lifelong sustainable changes. She has an approach that is both warm and empathically challenging to help you build motivation and accountability, while getting your needs met through the therapeutic journey.
![Photo of Elizabeth Tillman, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73b0a964-df03-4ffd-a917-fd703f0bdb5d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Tillman
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Hi I'm Liz. I am dedicated to providing a warm, accepting space where clients feel comfortable to explore their inner difficulties, relationship dynamics and past traumas. I admire the bravery it takes to attend therapy, and aim to uphold this respect when working together. A guiding principle in my work is to help clients build compassion for themselves, discover their own autonomy to face challenges and recognise their capacity to heal.
Hi I'm Liz. I am dedicated to providing a warm, accepting space where clients feel comfortable to explore their inner difficulties, relationship dynamics and past traumas. I admire the bravery it takes to attend therapy, and aim to uphold this respect when working together. A guiding principle in my work is to help clients build compassion for themselves, discover their own autonomy to face challenges and recognise their capacity to heal.
![Photo of Jessica Barlow, MA, PACFA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/701ba856-2fb2-4b98-bd67-5ad6a0e687e0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Currently accepting new clients. I offer an integrative approach to counselling, working across a variety of evidence-based therapeutic frameworks. I believe that genuine and empathic connection is fundamental to coping with the difficulties that come with living life as a human in the modern world. I am passionate about supporting clients to deepen their self-understanding and explore how life experiences shape their values, thoughts, and emotions.
Currently accepting new clients. I offer an integrative approach to counselling, working across a variety of evidence-based therapeutic frameworks. I believe that genuine and empathic connection is fundamental to coping with the difficulties that come with living life as a human in the modern world. I am passionate about supporting clients to deepen their self-understanding and explore how life experiences shape their values, thoughts, and emotions.
![Photo of Cathy Hayes - Mind Mode, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c6de4de-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I work with clients from all backgrounds, and any gender, using techniques to help people suffering from a range of mental health issues including mood and adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar & adjustment disorder. I feel passionately about working with people on increasing their self-esteem and assertiveness skills, improving their interpersonal and self care skills. I also love working with couples to rebuild and strengthen relationships.
I work with clients from all backgrounds, and any gender, using techniques to help people suffering from a range of mental health issues including mood and adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar & adjustment disorder. I feel passionately about working with people on increasing their self-esteem and assertiveness skills, improving their interpersonal and self care skills. I also love working with couples to rebuild and strengthen relationships.
![Photo of Madeline Franklin, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4fede3d-6dda-4359-925a-92aec5ef69dc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Immediate availability for people 12 years and over. I work with various presentations including eating disorders, stress, depression, anxiety, PTSD and complex trauma.
Immediate availability for people 12 years and over. I work with various presentations including eating disorders, stress, depression, anxiety, PTSD and complex trauma.
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Hope Christian Counselling
Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wollongong, NSW 2500 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Nada, talking about our thoughts and feelings with someone we barely know can be a scary experience. I offer a gentle, compassionate approach which takes the fear out of this process and helps you feel comfortable and safe. I follow your lead in discovering your personal story and help you to uncover the wonderful strengths that you have. You can walk with me in the beautiful outdoors or wrap yourself in a blanky in your own home via telehealth or meet in person with me. I am trained in a range of evidenced based therapies and as we work together we can explore how they can support your wellbeing.
Hi, I'm Nada, talking about our thoughts and feelings with someone we barely know can be a scary experience. I offer a gentle, compassionate approach which takes the fear out of this process and helps you feel comfortable and safe. I follow your lead in discovering your personal story and help you to uncover the wonderful strengths that you have. You can walk with me in the beautiful outdoors or wrap yourself in a blanky in your own home via telehealth or meet in person with me. I am trained in a range of evidenced based therapies and as we work together we can explore how they can support your wellbeing.
![Photo of Mollie Snelling, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f949ed9-f9af-4c4c-a36a-9c50d69171af/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mollie Snelling
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500 (Online Only)
Hi! I’m Mollie- a psychologist (Evenings and Saturdays) with a passion for helping ages 16+ build brighter, more fulfilling lives. Working with teens & young adults since 2017 I witnessed the unique challenges this phase of life brings. My experiences solidified my belief in the power of connection and importance of a safe, supportive space for growth. I understand that seeking therapy can be a big step, and my approach is rooted in empathy, understanding and collaboration. I feel that telehealth provides an environment where clients feel more at ease, making it easier to open up and connect.
Hi! I’m Mollie- a psychologist (Evenings and Saturdays) with a passion for helping ages 16+ build brighter, more fulfilling lives. Working with teens & young adults since 2017 I witnessed the unique challenges this phase of life brings. My experiences solidified my belief in the power of connection and importance of a safe, supportive space for growth. I understand that seeking therapy can be a big step, and my approach is rooted in empathy, understanding and collaboration. I feel that telehealth provides an environment where clients feel more at ease, making it easier to open up and connect.
![Photo of Jennifer Fisher, MA, MAPS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/964f2914-9735-486e-b6cb-9d896aa31976/1/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy working with a range of psychological and emotional concerns. My main area of interest is helping people who are living with an eating disorder. I am passionate about timely and effective support for individuals struggling with eating and body image concerns. In addition to eating disorders, I enjoy working with people who are experiencing different types of anxiety and emotional distress, chronic pain and illness, relationship concerns, grief, loss and adjusting to life changes including parenthood.
I enjoy working with a range of psychological and emotional concerns. My main area of interest is helping people who are living with an eating disorder. I am passionate about timely and effective support for individuals struggling with eating and body image concerns. In addition to eating disorders, I enjoy working with people who are experiencing different types of anxiety and emotional distress, chronic pain and illness, relationship concerns, grief, loss and adjusting to life changes including parenthood.
![Photo of Karen Towers, MA, PACFA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53e5e5b8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Towers Counselling is a creative & personal service for all ages. I have over 30 years of experience with children and teenagers. I'm now a counsellor & psychotherapist with 13 years of experience in working with carers, in an alcohol and drug service, with clients referred through centrelink and in EAP counselling. I currently work in private practice. Clients under the NDIS scheme who are self and plan-managed are able to access sessions. Art Therapy & Walk and Talk Therapy can make up part of an hourly session, every week or fortnight. I am also a Victims Services counsellor, ready to assist with moving on from trauma.
Towers Counselling is a creative & personal service for all ages. I have over 30 years of experience with children and teenagers. I'm now a counsellor & psychotherapist with 13 years of experience in working with carers, in an alcohol and drug service, with clients referred through centrelink and in EAP counselling. I currently work in private practice. Clients under the NDIS scheme who are self and plan-managed are able to access sessions. Art Therapy & Walk and Talk Therapy can make up part of an hourly session, every week or fortnight. I am also a Victims Services counsellor, ready to assist with moving on from trauma.
![Photo of Olga Lavalle - Dr Olga Lavalle & Associates, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc2b5d04-87c9-43dd-b7be-cd6ddf593769/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Olga Lavalle & Associates
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
'Empowering people to make positive changes in their lives' Dr Olga Lavalle & Associates offer psychology services which are compassionate, caring and empowering. Treatments and counselling are tailored to your needs and informed by evidence-based best practice principles. Whether you’re looking for help with an existing condition, support while overcoming trauma, or need relationship and family counselling, our team is here to help.
'Empowering people to make positive changes in their lives' Dr Olga Lavalle & Associates offer psychology services which are compassionate, caring and empowering. Treatments and counselling are tailored to your needs and informed by evidence-based best practice principles. Whether you’re looking for help with an existing condition, support while overcoming trauma, or need relationship and family counselling, our team is here to help.
![Photo of Renee McDonald, PACFA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49ac0f0f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Renee McDonald
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be complex and uncertain. I can help you with your concerns. You may be feeling unfulfilled or worried about a recent loss or your relationships. I can assist you to walk along side you in your time of sadness, loss, grief, or situations that are holding you back from having a more fulfilling life. Many of my clients say they may have tried other counselling, though it hasn’t worked. I can work with you - no matter where you are at. I help you find hope in your life again.
Life can be complex and uncertain. I can help you with your concerns. You may be feeling unfulfilled or worried about a recent loss or your relationships. I can assist you to walk along side you in your time of sadness, loss, grief, or situations that are holding you back from having a more fulfilling life. Many of my clients say they may have tried other counselling, though it hasn’t worked. I can work with you - no matter where you are at. I help you find hope in your life again.
![Photo of Holly Read, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a227b856-5190-460c-9af0-d8b65d6bb6c8/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have been supporting adults & young people with their mental health challenges for over 20 years, working with diverse populations. Including, over 13 years of experience working with a range of presenting issues in the field of clinical adolescent mental health and Indigenous health. With extensive counselling and psychotherapy experience obtained in a variety of setting including, but not limited to; private practise, NSW Health Dept., Corrective Services, Education Dept., Universities, private detox, and rehabilitation services.
I have been supporting adults & young people with their mental health challenges for over 20 years, working with diverse populations. Including, over 13 years of experience working with a range of presenting issues in the field of clinical adolescent mental health and Indigenous health. With extensive counselling and psychotherapy experience obtained in a variety of setting including, but not limited to; private practise, NSW Health Dept., Corrective Services, Education Dept., Universities, private detox, and rehabilitation services.
![Photo of Danielle Waters, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c429e3e-60d8-497c-9f84-af51f981b4bf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Waters
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Not accepting new clients
I am a Clinical Psychologist who can help you to develop personal insight and to address symptoms of a range of anxiety disorders; mood related issues; trauma; addiction; distress and overwhelming emotions; life stress; personality challenges and related unhelpful coping; interpersonal and relationship issues; communication skills. I can help you define your values and address the barriers that stop you from living in line with these. We will work together to create meaningful goals.
I am a Clinical Psychologist who can help you to develop personal insight and to address symptoms of a range of anxiety disorders; mood related issues; trauma; addiction; distress and overwhelming emotions; life stress; personality challenges and related unhelpful coping; interpersonal and relationship issues; communication skills. I can help you define your values and address the barriers that stop you from living in line with these. We will work together to create meaningful goals.
![Photo of Dr Sophie Russell, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46bd6bab-e38f-48e7-bfd2-2c57db4898db/2/320x400.png)
Dr Sophie Russell
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, I'm Sophie, I aim to offer a warm and supportive therapeutic space so we can engage in individualised psychotherapy. I am a clinically trained psychologist with 7 years of therapy experience, and a PhD in Clinical Psychology. I hope to create a welcoming therapy space, to work with whatever difficulties you are experiencing. I have a special interest in working with people experiencing anxiety and distress related to past trauma/difficult experiences. I also find psychotherapy for self/identity exploration and diverse genders and sexuality (LGBTQI+) really rewarding.
Hi, I'm Sophie, I aim to offer a warm and supportive therapeutic space so we can engage in individualised psychotherapy. I am a clinically trained psychologist with 7 years of therapy experience, and a PhD in Clinical Psychology. I hope to create a welcoming therapy space, to work with whatever difficulties you are experiencing. I have a special interest in working with people experiencing anxiety and distress related to past trauma/difficult experiences. I also find psychotherapy for self/identity exploration and diverse genders and sexuality (LGBTQI+) really rewarding.
See more therapy options for Wollongong
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Wollongong, NSW
100+
Average cost per session
$180
Counsellors in Wollongong, NSW who prioritize treating:
89% | Anxiety |
80% | Depression |
75% | Self Esteem |
73% | Stress |
72% | Trauma and PTSD |
68% | Relationship Issues |
66% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
72% | Medicare Rebates |
40% | NDIS |
33% | Other |
How Counsellors in Wollongong, NSW see their clients
71% | In Person and Online | |
29% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
18% | Male | |
2% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Wollongong?
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
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.
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.
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.
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.