Counselling in McDowall, QLD
![Photo of Kerry Lyn Jones - Kerry Jones Women's Wellness Counselling, ACA-L1, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/533499fa-7ebe-486e-b0bb-d78edbe570f3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kerry Jones Women's Wellness Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McDowall, QLD 4053 (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Kerry. I am a women's wellness counsellor and I would love to journey alongside you to help you build a flourishing life. I work with you to help you move from chaos to calm and to reduce stress, build resilience and coping skills, strengthen relationships and find inner peace. I have experience supporting individuals with a range of issues including grief & loss, separation & divorce, parenting, stress & burnout, work-related issues, periods of transitions and am able to offer Christian counselling.
Hi, I’m Kerry. I am a women's wellness counsellor and I would love to journey alongside you to help you build a flourishing life. I work with you to help you move from chaos to calm and to reduce stress, build resilience and coping skills, strengthen relationships and find inner peace. I have experience supporting individuals with a range of issues including grief & loss, separation & divorce, parenting, stress & burnout, work-related issues, periods of transitions and am able to offer Christian counselling.
![Photo of Rachel Hannam - North Brisbane Psychologists , PhD, PsyBA - Org. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5444a3ce-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
North Brisbane Psychologists
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Org. Psych.
Verified Verified
McDowall, QLD 4053
We are a team of 40 dedicated and nonjudgmental practitioners. We work with adults, kids, teens, families and couples. We help our clients find better ways to manage anxiety, depression, stress and burnout, addiction, trauma, and relationship conflicts. We offer various therapies including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Schema Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), the Gottman Method, Nonviolent Communication (NVC) mediation, and Emotion Focussed Couples Therapy.
We are a team of 40 dedicated and nonjudgmental practitioners. We work with adults, kids, teens, families and couples. We help our clients find better ways to manage anxiety, depression, stress and burnout, addiction, trauma, and relationship conflicts. We offer various therapies including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Schema Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), the Gottman Method, Nonviolent Communication (NVC) mediation, and Emotion Focussed Couples Therapy.
![Photo of Francene Hemingway - Healing Connections Psychology, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/14fc111f-f898-4640-94b0-7201543f0793/2/320x400.jpeg)
Healing Connections Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
McDowall, QLD 4053
We are innately equipped for both struggle and connection, essential for enhancing our life experiences in areas like relationships, work, parenting, and beyond. Recognising the impact of adversity, it's important to understand how it shapes our emotional experiences and reactions. Adversity manifests in various ways, influencing our ability to express and process emotions across the spectrum - from joy and happiness to sadness and fear. Our team provides a supportive space that fosters a safe, warm, and empathetic environment where you can openly explore and discuss your personal experiences, through trauma-informed perspectives.
We are innately equipped for both struggle and connection, essential for enhancing our life experiences in areas like relationships, work, parenting, and beyond. Recognising the impact of adversity, it's important to understand how it shapes our emotional experiences and reactions. Adversity manifests in various ways, influencing our ability to express and process emotions across the spectrum - from joy and happiness to sadness and fear. Our team provides a supportive space that fosters a safe, warm, and empathetic environment where you can openly explore and discuss your personal experiences, through trauma-informed perspectives.
![Photo of Kylie Warren, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/18f407d0-80e3-485d-a946-01eb9cae8665/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Clinical Psychologist based in North Brisbane (Everton Park). I am passionate about helping individuals of all ages achieve their full potential and lead fulfilling lives. Whether you're seeking therapy, assessment, or simply looking for support and guidance on your personal journey, I am here to help. My approach to therapy is based on the belief that every individual has the capacity for growth and change. Through a collaborative and non-judgmental approach, I aim to help you gain insight into your thoughts, feelings and behaviors, and develop the skills and strategies you need to lead a more fulfilling life.
I am a Clinical Psychologist based in North Brisbane (Everton Park). I am passionate about helping individuals of all ages achieve their full potential and lead fulfilling lives. Whether you're seeking therapy, assessment, or simply looking for support and guidance on your personal journey, I am here to help. My approach to therapy is based on the belief that every individual has the capacity for growth and change. Through a collaborative and non-judgmental approach, I aim to help you gain insight into your thoughts, feelings and behaviors, and develop the skills and strategies you need to lead a more fulfilling life.
![Photo of Heather Joy Murr, PACFA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43b89bc9-4599-4d5f-b516-7d30ae867231/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a professional counsellor, and a registered member of PACFA, Heather is not only trained/experienced in a range of evidence-based counselling and psychotherapeutic approaches, but also is dedicated to maintaining the highest possible standard of professional practice, and care. While using a Trauma Informed, Strengths Based, and Person Centred approach, it is Heather's genuinely non judgmental, kind and empathic nature, which is always central to her practice. It is this which lays at the core in the support she provides to her clients, to help them address their issues, meet their needs, and achieve their goals.
As a professional counsellor, and a registered member of PACFA, Heather is not only trained/experienced in a range of evidence-based counselling and psychotherapeutic approaches, but also is dedicated to maintaining the highest possible standard of professional practice, and care. While using a Trauma Informed, Strengths Based, and Person Centred approach, it is Heather's genuinely non judgmental, kind and empathic nature, which is always central to her practice. It is this which lays at the core in the support she provides to her clients, to help them address their issues, meet their needs, and achieve their goals.
![Photo of Michelle Joy McClintock - Mindful Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9895882-c09f-48ba-9da7-02daef54bf5b/1/320x400.png)
I especially connect with and enjoy providing support to people who struggle because they are highly-sensitive (hsperson.com), perfectionists, over-thinkers, anxious/worriers, or they have a history of trauma (from childhood, or from adult experiences, such as military service, miscarriage, violent assault, workplace bullying). I enjoy complex presentations, where there may be PTSD, anxiety, attachment issues, perfectionism, where the person's goal is to create an inner peace, fulfilment and live a more contented life. With couples, I can help you learn how to communicate effectively, resolve conflicts and improve your connection.
I especially connect with and enjoy providing support to people who struggle because they are highly-sensitive (hsperson.com), perfectionists, over-thinkers, anxious/worriers, or they have a history of trauma (from childhood, or from adult experiences, such as military service, miscarriage, violent assault, workplace bullying). I enjoy complex presentations, where there may be PTSD, anxiety, attachment issues, perfectionism, where the person's goal is to create an inner peace, fulfilment and live a more contented life. With couples, I can help you learn how to communicate effectively, resolve conflicts and improve your connection.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Gretta O'Hagan - Gretta O'Hagan Counselling, Coaching & Supervision, MA, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f95c23ed-bd5b-40a7-ad37-9c9d066bc3a4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gretta O'Hagan Counselling, Coaching & Supervision
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newmarket, QLD 4051
Hi, I'm Gretta. I have over 20+ years of experience providing counselling to adults. I have a particular interest in supporting adults who have experienced relational trauma. Do you experience, for example, confusion; trust issues; excessive thinking, stress or worry; communication issues; tiredness; sleep issues; feeling withdrawn and/or on alert? Would you prefer to slow down, explore your feelings, thoughts and experiences, and develop skills to more effectively manage them? Working with a professionally trained counsellor allows you to work towards the changes you are seeking within a safe, supportive therapeutic relationship.
Hi, I'm Gretta. I have over 20+ years of experience providing counselling to adults. I have a particular interest in supporting adults who have experienced relational trauma. Do you experience, for example, confusion; trust issues; excessive thinking, stress or worry; communication issues; tiredness; sleep issues; feeling withdrawn and/or on alert? Would you prefer to slow down, explore your feelings, thoughts and experiences, and develop skills to more effectively manage them? Working with a professionally trained counsellor allows you to work towards the changes you are seeking within a safe, supportive therapeutic relationship.
![Photo of Donna Gonsalves - Doves Counselling - Donna Gonsalves, PACFA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74570a5e-6c2a-49ff-ae26-61a2c4482059/1/320x400.jpeg)
Doves Counselling - Donna Gonsalves
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Ashgrove, QLD 4060 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Donna and I'm so glad you're here. For me, counselling isn't just about tackling mental health concerns — it's a lifeline for those going through relationship challenges, tough life events, or grappling with behavioral issues. Consider me as a caring stranger, someone here to listen without judgment. I am well-versed in discussing a wide range of topics, no matter how sensitive or personal. I understand the unique needs of our community, and I’m here to offer a broad spectrum of services to cater to your individual journey. I also specialise in the areas of grief, loss and bereavement.
Hi, I'm Donna and I'm so glad you're here. For me, counselling isn't just about tackling mental health concerns — it's a lifeline for those going through relationship challenges, tough life events, or grappling with behavioral issues. Consider me as a caring stranger, someone here to listen without judgment. I am well-versed in discussing a wide range of topics, no matter how sensitive or personal. I understand the unique needs of our community, and I’m here to offer a broad spectrum of services to cater to your individual journey. I also specialise in the areas of grief, loss and bereavement.
![Photo of Patrick Sullivan, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d063005a-780a-42a5-a389-c1e73774441e/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am clinical psychologist working in private practice based in Everton Park. I strive to establish a warm connection with my clients, offer a therapeutic space that is safe, compassionate, and respectful, and provide effective treatment individualised for each person’s therapy needs. I tend to work with adults, veterans and teenagers 16 years and above, addressing a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, OCD, grief, personality disorders, and inter-personal difficulties. I offer both in-person and Telehealth (phone and video) appointments. Pease feel free to reach out via phone or email.
I am clinical psychologist working in private practice based in Everton Park. I strive to establish a warm connection with my clients, offer a therapeutic space that is safe, compassionate, and respectful, and provide effective treatment individualised for each person’s therapy needs. I tend to work with adults, veterans and teenagers 16 years and above, addressing a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, OCD, grief, personality disorders, and inter-personal difficulties. I offer both in-person and Telehealth (phone and video) appointments. Pease feel free to reach out via phone or email.
![Photo of Adele O'Hare, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69f65a14-89d8-49ab-8dd5-6152a91dd1e0/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with adults who are experiencing emotional pain associated with patterns in their relationships with themselves and others. We all form such patterns through what we learn implicitly in our earliest attachments. My patients are reflective, and they want support to make sense of how their patterns of behaviour are linked to events and unmet needs in their family of origin. The reflective work of therapy can help people access much more choice in how they respond to life's challenges and how they show up in their present relationships.
I work with adults who are experiencing emotional pain associated with patterns in their relationships with themselves and others. We all form such patterns through what we learn implicitly in our earliest attachments. My patients are reflective, and they want support to make sense of how their patterns of behaviour are linked to events and unmet needs in their family of origin. The reflective work of therapy can help people access much more choice in how they respond to life's challenges and how they show up in their present relationships.
![Photo of Beenish Shahzad - Beenish Shahzad - Clin Psych - People Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8a0485f-0dc6-44c0-b592-8cf263ec6f0a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Beenish Shahzad - Clin Psych - People Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Nundah, QLD 4012
Get help by seeing Beenish, who has extensive experience with: Anxiety (social anxiety, generalised anxiety ,specific phobias, obsessive compulsive disorder) Depression Stress Management Chronic pain/illness Relationship issues Self-esteem issues Insomnia/sleep issues Grief and loss Coping with life transitions (relationship breakdown, job loss) Trauma Workplace bullying Parenting issues Interpersonal issues Communication skills
Get help by seeing Beenish, who has extensive experience with: Anxiety (social anxiety, generalised anxiety ,specific phobias, obsessive compulsive disorder) Depression Stress Management Chronic pain/illness Relationship issues Self-esteem issues Insomnia/sleep issues Grief and loss Coping with life transitions (relationship breakdown, job loss) Trauma Workplace bullying Parenting issues Interpersonal issues Communication skills
![Photo of Sharyn Ferris, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a99005d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Therapy is a very intimate experience. In my work with people I strive for a personal connection with my clients from the get-go. Through that relationship, I am better able to understand the motivations, hidden struggles and impulses that drive my clients, and in turn, help them to utilize their own strengths and learned techniques to successfully address the difficulties being experienced by them. I have assisted clients who are going through or preparing for life transitions, experiencing depression, anxiety or mood disorders, or recovering from trauma or loss.
Therapy is a very intimate experience. In my work with people I strive for a personal connection with my clients from the get-go. Through that relationship, I am better able to understand the motivations, hidden struggles and impulses that drive my clients, and in turn, help them to utilize their own strengths and learned techniques to successfully address the difficulties being experienced by them. I have assisted clients who are going through or preparing for life transitions, experiencing depression, anxiety or mood disorders, or recovering from trauma or loss.
![Photo of Rachel Layt, MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ad05cb32-e2b2-4a32-9b88-edeae9dfec52/1/320x400.png)
Rachel has five years experience working in the mental health field and has been working with Relationships Australia since 2021. Rachel works with clients of all ages and abilities and has a passion for working with; children aged between 3-16yo, families experiencing conflict, and with people who identify as neurodivergent or having additional needs. Rachel uses an evidence-based approach and utilises a range of therapeutic approaches including Play Therapy, Play based approaches, Creative Therapies, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT).
Rachel has five years experience working in the mental health field and has been working with Relationships Australia since 2021. Rachel works with clients of all ages and abilities and has a passion for working with; children aged between 3-16yo, families experiencing conflict, and with people who identify as neurodivergent or having additional needs. Rachel uses an evidence-based approach and utilises a range of therapeutic approaches including Play Therapy, Play based approaches, Creative Therapies, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT).
![Photo of Kirsten Mackenzie, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/18f97f75-eb28-4147-b270-fc7fe3c57a7c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling stressed, anxious or depressed and don't understand why or know how to feel better? I am passionate in making a meaningful difference in client's lives by providing an inviting, empathic, safe space to explore experiences, assist learning and understanding themselves, patterns of thinking and behaviour. Together I work with clients in understanding where their patterns of thinking came from and develop strategies to assist healing and growth.
Are you feeling stressed, anxious or depressed and don't understand why or know how to feel better? I am passionate in making a meaningful difference in client's lives by providing an inviting, empathic, safe space to explore experiences, assist learning and understanding themselves, patterns of thinking and behaviour. Together I work with clients in understanding where their patterns of thinking came from and develop strategies to assist healing and growth.
![Photo of Dr Marjolein Kammers, PhD, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bbcd91e1-018a-4e74-8d67-f1c401218e32/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Marjolein Kammers
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Windsor, QLD 4030
I am an AHPRA Registered Psychologist and a cognitive neuroscientist. I have a special interest and established experience working with children, parents and adult individuals with ADHD and Autism. I provide parenting support around attachment questions and challenges throughout the stages of toddler, primary school children and teens. I also have a special interest and a thorough understanding of the challenges of many different and diverse reproductive journeys, including medically assisted fertility, using an egg/sperm donor, and pregnancy loss.
I am an AHPRA Registered Psychologist and a cognitive neuroscientist. I have a special interest and established experience working with children, parents and adult individuals with ADHD and Autism. I provide parenting support around attachment questions and challenges throughout the stages of toddler, primary school children and teens. I also have a special interest and a thorough understanding of the challenges of many different and diverse reproductive journeys, including medically assisted fertility, using an egg/sperm donor, and pregnancy loss.
![Photo of Tara Megan Scott - Tara - Cathartic Collaborations, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/307c38ba-5d49-4884-9426-942363d07780/1/320x400.png)
Tara - Cathartic Collaborations
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kedron, QLD 4031
Immediate availability for NDIS and Private (self funded) referrals. Hello! I'm Tara (they/them) and I provide therapeutic support in person in Nundah, Brisbane or telehealth Australia wide. I am queer, neurodivergent (Autism & ADHD) and non-binary. I am passionate about providing therapeutic support to neurodivergent (particularly Autistic folks & ADHDers) and LGBTQIA+ adolescents and adults.
Immediate availability for NDIS and Private (self funded) referrals. Hello! I'm Tara (they/them) and I provide therapeutic support in person in Nundah, Brisbane or telehealth Australia wide. I am queer, neurodivergent (Autism & ADHD) and non-binary. I am passionate about providing therapeutic support to neurodivergent (particularly Autistic folks & ADHDers) and LGBTQIA+ adolescents and adults.
![Photo of Mark Colwill, ACA-L1, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1fb5810-eca8-4557-a368-49ccb61cb295/2/320x400.png)
Mark is a specialist therapist for those struggling with gambling concerns. Join the long list of people in the local community of Brisbane who have stopped gambling following one-to-one counselling support from Mark.
Mark is a specialist therapist for those struggling with gambling concerns. Join the long list of people in the local community of Brisbane who have stopped gambling following one-to-one counselling support from Mark.
![Photo of Gladys Koh, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e4f3c50-aef8-48a0-b1bf-678489fd5674/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a registered clinical psychologist offering brief and long-term psychotherapy for adults and adolescents (16+), who not only wish to address specific mental health concerns, but also to deepen their self-understanding and make sense of their inner world. My areas of interest and experience include working with individuals experiencing a diverse range of difficulties (who may or may not have a clinical diagnosis), including low mood/depression, anxiety, difficulties with adjustment/life transitions, trauma-related difficulties, self-esteem issues, difficulties in relationships, and chronic dissatisfaction with their lives.
I am a registered clinical psychologist offering brief and long-term psychotherapy for adults and adolescents (16+), who not only wish to address specific mental health concerns, but also to deepen their self-understanding and make sense of their inner world. My areas of interest and experience include working with individuals experiencing a diverse range of difficulties (who may or may not have a clinical diagnosis), including low mood/depression, anxiety, difficulties with adjustment/life transitions, trauma-related difficulties, self-esteem issues, difficulties in relationships, and chronic dissatisfaction with their lives.
![Photo of Amirah Shah - Dr Amirah Shah, PhD, ACA-L4, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54d095c4-4d96-43a4-8893-ca4d515198ff/2/320x400.jpeg)
Recovering from trauma, or any form of grief and loss, is no easy task. Living with a disability also comes with experiences of loss and trauma. You need to make sense of your daily life, your past, your identity, and your relationships all over again. Finding support, and re-evaluating life after loss and trauma can be daunting, especially when people in your life may be contributing to these challenges. Living in a multicultural society also inevitably highlights the nuances of our conflicts. Only in a safe space can we then explore our deepest worries, our racing thoughts, distressing emotions, and spiritual concerns.
Recovering from trauma, or any form of grief and loss, is no easy task. Living with a disability also comes with experiences of loss and trauma. You need to make sense of your daily life, your past, your identity, and your relationships all over again. Finding support, and re-evaluating life after loss and trauma can be daunting, especially when people in your life may be contributing to these challenges. Living in a multicultural society also inevitably highlights the nuances of our conflicts. Only in a safe space can we then explore our deepest worries, our racing thoughts, distressing emotions, and spiritual concerns.
![Photo of Dr Alyssa Ryan, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/821d1341-7ae4-42b9-8794-3574ff8d03b3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Alyssa Ryan
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chermside, QLD 4032 (Online Only)
Alyssa approaches her work with professionalism and kindness. She creates a warm, accepting space for clients to explore difficult issues. With a doctorate in Clinical Psychology and many years of experience and additional training, she is highly skilled in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health. Alyssa sees her role as collaborating with her clients to develop a personalised approach to address the client’s concerns. Often, this begins with a focus on surviving, and moves into thriving.
Alyssa approaches her work with professionalism and kindness. She creates a warm, accepting space for clients to explore difficult issues. With a doctorate in Clinical Psychology and many years of experience and additional training, she is highly skilled in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health. Alyssa sees her role as collaborating with her clients to develop a personalised approach to address the client’s concerns. Often, this begins with a focus on surviving, and moves into thriving.
See more therapy options for McDowall
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in McDowall, QLD
< 10
Counsellors in McDowall, QLD who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Coping Skills |
100% | Stress |
83% | Relationship Issues |
83% | Trauma and PTSD |
83% | Self Esteem |
Average years in practice
16 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Medicare Rebates |
67% | Bupa |
67% | Australian Unity |
How Counsellors in McDowall, QLD see their clients
84% | In Person and Online | |
16% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in McDowall?
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.