Counselling in Nerang, QLD

Photo of Olena Lysychka, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Olena Lysychka
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Nerang, QLD 4211
I provide support for individual clients, couples, and families searching for their way through a broad range of issues. Throughout our work together, I aim to assist you in developing a stronger sense of self, improve your wellbeing, develop more adaptive coping mechanisms, and re-connect you with what matters most to you. My extensive training in relationship enhancement helps me serve individuals to find new ways of relating to their significant others to move away from unhealthy dynamics. At the same time, moving towards relationships that are intimate, flourishing, and nurturing. Strong relationships do not happen by chance.
I provide support for individual clients, couples, and families searching for their way through a broad range of issues. Throughout our work together, I aim to assist you in developing a stronger sense of self, improve your wellbeing, develop more adaptive coping mechanisms, and re-connect you with what matters most to you. My extensive training in relationship enhancement helps me serve individuals to find new ways of relating to their significant others to move away from unhealthy dynamics. At the same time, moving towards relationships that are intimate, flourishing, and nurturing. Strong relationships do not happen by chance.
(02) 6412 9102 View (02) 6412 9102
Photo of Melanie Henry - Healing Hearts Counselling, PACFA, Counsellor
Healing Hearts Counselling
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nerang, QLD 4211
Healing Hearts Counselling is a private counselling service that supports families, teens and children that have experienced trauma or are trying to navigate difficult life challenges. Melanie has over 22 years experience of working with and supporting families. Melanie can support families, children and adults around challenges related to life cycle transitions, relationship challenges, identity formation, trauma, anxiety, school refusal and emotional regulation. As well as offering parenting support through various parenting programs, psycho education and filal play therapy.
Healing Hearts Counselling is a private counselling service that supports families, teens and children that have experienced trauma or are trying to navigate difficult life challenges. Melanie has over 22 years experience of working with and supporting families. Melanie can support families, children and adults around challenges related to life cycle transitions, relationship challenges, identity formation, trauma, anxiety, school refusal and emotional regulation. As well as offering parenting support through various parenting programs, psycho education and filal play therapy.
(08) 6017 5814 View (08) 6017 5814
Photo of Sarah Ford, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Sarah Ford
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Nerang, QLD 4211
Hello, I'm a Registered Psychologist. I have particular interests in sleep difficulties in adults that co-occur with anxiety/depression symptoms. My clients typically have difficulty getting to sleep or staying asleep, including early morning awakenings. I have completed certified training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), which is the first line evidence based treatment for insomnia and gets to the root of what is maintaining our sleep issues. CBT-I involves tracking our sleep patterns, adjusting our sleep behaviours to optimise sleep efficiency and strategies for managing an active mind, amongst others.
Hello, I'm a Registered Psychologist. I have particular interests in sleep difficulties in adults that co-occur with anxiety/depression symptoms. My clients typically have difficulty getting to sleep or staying asleep, including early morning awakenings. I have completed certified training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), which is the first line evidence based treatment for insomnia and gets to the root of what is maintaining our sleep issues. CBT-I involves tracking our sleep patterns, adjusting our sleep behaviours to optimise sleep efficiency and strategies for managing an active mind, amongst others.
(07) 2801 6667 View (07) 2801 6667
Photo of Katie Grimmett, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Katie Grimmett
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Nerang, QLD 4211
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed by life's demands yet yearns for a sense of clarity, peace, and purpose. They might be experiencing anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues or navigating a major life transition that feels daunting. They are seeking not only to alleviate immediate distress but to foster lasting personal growth. They want more than symptom relief—they’re eager to understand the “why” behind their feelings, patterns, and reactions. They desire tools and strategies to manage their emotions, communicate effectively, and ultimately build a life that aligns with their true values.
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed by life's demands yet yearns for a sense of clarity, peace, and purpose. They might be experiencing anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues or navigating a major life transition that feels daunting. They are seeking not only to alleviate immediate distress but to foster lasting personal growth. They want more than symptom relief—they’re eager to understand the “why” behind their feelings, patterns, and reactions. They desire tools and strategies to manage their emotions, communicate effectively, and ultimately build a life that aligns with their true values.
(07) 2801 6139 View (07) 2801 6139
Photo of Gregg Palmer, MA, ACA-L3, Psychotherapist
Gregg Palmer
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nerang, QLD 4211  (Online Only)
I am an experienced counsellor and psychotherapist with an extensive knowledge of working with adults undergoing stress, trauma and crises. I work within a leading edge relational, embodied and psychospiritual context, primarily focused on the unconscious informed by transference and countertransference dynamics. I specialise in working with deep trauma and am skilled at tolerating difficult states, such as profound despair, that, for example, intense self hatred can lead us to. When we lose our own value and meaning in life we can spiral into a black hole.
I am an experienced counsellor and psychotherapist with an extensive knowledge of working with adults undergoing stress, trauma and crises. I work within a leading edge relational, embodied and psychospiritual context, primarily focused on the unconscious informed by transference and countertransference dynamics. I specialise in working with deep trauma and am skilled at tolerating difficult states, such as profound despair, that, for example, intense self hatred can lead us to. When we lose our own value and meaning in life we can spiral into a black hole.
(07) 2801 6982 View (07) 2801 6982
Photo of Natalie Ann Wood - Cogni Academy Pty Ltd, MC, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Cogni Academy Pty Ltd
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Nerang, QLD 4211  (Online Only)
The people I speak with may have work or personal issues or a combination of both of these, and symptoms associated with stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, ASD/ADHD, BPD, perinatal and sensory processing concerns. The therapeutic goal will be to reduce these symptoms and improve relationships with self, beliefs and others. My ideal client will want to practice active coping skills plus other relevant relationship skills because they desire to connect with a greater sense of safety, security and acceptance.
The people I speak with may have work or personal issues or a combination of both of these, and symptoms associated with stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, ASD/ADHD, BPD, perinatal and sensory processing concerns. The therapeutic goal will be to reduce these symptoms and improve relationships with self, beliefs and others. My ideal client will want to practice active coping skills plus other relevant relationship skills because they desire to connect with a greater sense of safety, security and acceptance.
(02) 6402 9774 View (02) 6402 9774
Photo of Lee Hughes, PhD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Lee Hughes
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Nerang, QLD 4211
Greetings and a warm welcome to you! My name is Lee Hughes and I offer a personalised, evidence-based psychological services grounded in compassion and understanding. If you're navigating through emotional turbulence, feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or depression, or wrestling with relationship issues, you've already demonstrated courage by considering professional help. Perhaps you're also seeking a deeper understanding of yourself, looking to enrich your relationships, or aspiring to steer your life in a more fulfilling direction. Regardless of your specific concerns, you've taken an important and brave step by seeking assistance.
Greetings and a warm welcome to you! My name is Lee Hughes and I offer a personalised, evidence-based psychological services grounded in compassion and understanding. If you're navigating through emotional turbulence, feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or depression, or wrestling with relationship issues, you've already demonstrated courage by considering professional help. Perhaps you're also seeking a deeper understanding of yourself, looking to enrich your relationships, or aspiring to steer your life in a more fulfilling direction. Regardless of your specific concerns, you've taken an important and brave step by seeking assistance.
0493 263 922 View 0493 263 922
Photo of Susie Flanders, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Susie Flanders
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Nerang, QLD 4211
Hi, I'm Susie, during counselling sessions I provide empathetic and non-judgmental support to individuals to reach their therapy goals. I use a range of tools and strategies such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment based therapy, Mindfulness, Walk and Talk therapy and Neurofeedback therapy to assist you to feel safe to discuss making the changes that you want. Neurofeedback therapy can assist with a range of conditions including, sleeping issues, bedwetting, emotional regulation, stress and overwhelm, attention and focus, migraines, motivation and trauma to name a few.
Hi, I'm Susie, during counselling sessions I provide empathetic and non-judgmental support to individuals to reach their therapy goals. I use a range of tools and strategies such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment based therapy, Mindfulness, Walk and Talk therapy and Neurofeedback therapy to assist you to feel safe to discuss making the changes that you want. Neurofeedback therapy can assist with a range of conditions including, sleeping issues, bedwetting, emotional regulation, stress and overwhelm, attention and focus, migraines, motivation and trauma to name a few.
(03) 7500 5825 View (03) 7500 5825
Photo of Sharon Devine, MPsych, MAPS, Psychologist
Sharon Devine
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Verified Verified
Nerang, QLD 4211
I am a Clinical Psychologist will work with you through using warmth and empathy. People typically consider coming to therapy for reasons such as they've grown up feeling unloved, feel stuck, experienced bullying, had a relationship breakdown, feel fatigued, overwhelmed, or just don' feel good. Therapy can help when you're feeling flat, feeling teary, or life just isn't enjoyable anymore, you are self-medicating, you’re avoiding thinking about the past, or you just need something to change. I use a very grounded and collaborative approach to help you reach your goals.
I am a Clinical Psychologist will work with you through using warmth and empathy. People typically consider coming to therapy for reasons such as they've grown up feeling unloved, feel stuck, experienced bullying, had a relationship breakdown, feel fatigued, overwhelmed, or just don' feel good. Therapy can help when you're feeling flat, feeling teary, or life just isn't enjoyable anymore, you are self-medicating, you’re avoiding thinking about the past, or you just need something to change. I use a very grounded and collaborative approach to help you reach your goals.
(07) 5515 0221 View (07) 5515 0221
Photo of Amber Dodds - Amber Dodds Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Amber Dodds Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Nerang, QLD 4211  (Online Only)
Amber is an online psychologist passionate about helping adults navigate the many obstacles of life and believes in establishing a strong therapeutic relationship based on warmth and compassion to help connect with and support her clients. She takes a holistic approach to her practice guided by evidence-based psychological techniques tailored to meet her client’s specific needs. Amber works with a variety of presentations including complex trauma, PTSD, anxiety and panic, depression, addictions, anger, interpersonal difficulties, and grief/ loss.
Amber is an online psychologist passionate about helping adults navigate the many obstacles of life and believes in establishing a strong therapeutic relationship based on warmth and compassion to help connect with and support her clients. She takes a holistic approach to her practice guided by evidence-based psychological techniques tailored to meet her client’s specific needs. Amber works with a variety of presentations including complex trauma, PTSD, anxiety and panic, depression, addictions, anger, interpersonal difficulties, and grief/ loss.
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Photo of Sabrina Stephens - Sabrina Stephens Equine Assisted Therapy , Counsellor
Sabrina Stephens Equine Assisted Therapy
Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nerang, QLD 4211
Are you wanting to feel calm, confident and able to connect better to yourself and others? Do you love nature and animals? Picture being able to experience all off the above. Traditional talk or room based therapy is not for everyone. This is where Equine Assisted Therapy can help you discover the true you. Being in the presence of horses can help calm down an anxious and or stressed person, and their kind and non-judgemental nature, can help people to explore what needs to be explored without the feeling of confrontation or pressure. No Prior Horse Experience Required.
Are you wanting to feel calm, confident and able to connect better to yourself and others? Do you love nature and animals? Picture being able to experience all off the above. Traditional talk or room based therapy is not for everyone. This is where Equine Assisted Therapy can help you discover the true you. Being in the presence of horses can help calm down an anxious and or stressed person, and their kind and non-judgemental nature, can help people to explore what needs to be explored without the feeling of confrontation or pressure. No Prior Horse Experience Required.
(03) 9007 2860 View (03) 9007 2860
Photo of Jayne Maree Jones - Let's Get It sorted, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Let's Get It sorted
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Nerang, QLD 4211
Not sure why you're feeling like you are? Not sure what you need? Wanting to achieve goals but unsure what exactly? By looking at your values first I can assist you to work towards living a life well lived. Values and beliefs work gets to the core of who you are and what you want and why you do or don't live your best life.
Not sure why you're feeling like you are? Not sure what you need? Wanting to achieve goals but unsure what exactly? By looking at your values first I can assist you to work towards living a life well lived. Values and beliefs work gets to the core of who you are and what you want and why you do or don't live your best life.
(08) 7666 2109 View (08) 7666 2109
Photo of Kate Oosthuizen, MA, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Kate Oosthuizen
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Nerang, QLD 4211
Kate’s counselling experience spans over 25+ years and specialises in trauma-informed individual counselling. Kate is passionate about applying trauma-informed practices for the safety of all clients. Being caring, compassionate and authentic is integral to healing from trauma. Providing relevant psychoeducation and practical strategies/techniques concerning life's dis/stressors and options for healthy coping skills is essential for wellbeing. Kate enables clients to experience hope and supported wellbeing whilst working towards their counselling goals. Kate is humbled by the bravery of the clients and post-trauma growth witnessed.
Kate’s counselling experience spans over 25+ years and specialises in trauma-informed individual counselling. Kate is passionate about applying trauma-informed practices for the safety of all clients. Being caring, compassionate and authentic is integral to healing from trauma. Providing relevant psychoeducation and practical strategies/techniques concerning life's dis/stressors and options for healthy coping skills is essential for wellbeing. Kate enables clients to experience hope and supported wellbeing whilst working towards their counselling goals. Kate is humbled by the bravery of the clients and post-trauma growth witnessed.
(02) 8074 3830 View (02) 8074 3830
Photo of Stacey Hansen - Your Psych Centre, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Your Psych Centre
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Nerang, QLD 4211  (Online Only)
I am Director and Principal Psychologist of Your Psych Centre. We are an affirming clinic who works with individuals across the lifespan. We recognise individuals and parents are the experts - we are here to help make sense of it all. Our diverse clinicians are passionate about empowering all individuals, particularly those within the LGBTIQ+, Neurodivergent, and Culturally and Linguistic Diverse communities.
I am Director and Principal Psychologist of Your Psych Centre. We are an affirming clinic who works with individuals across the lifespan. We recognise individuals and parents are the experts - we are here to help make sense of it all. Our diverse clinicians are passionate about empowering all individuals, particularly those within the LGBTIQ+, Neurodivergent, and Culturally and Linguistic Diverse communities.
(07) 5391 4223 View (07) 5391 4223
Photo of Vlasta Delorger, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Vlasta Delorger
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Nerang, QLD 4211
I am a dedicated and compassionate counsellor based in beautiful Labrador on the Gold Coast. At V Harmony Counselling, I’m committed to supporting each client with care, respect, and a genuine understanding of life’s challenges. My role is to help individuals, couples, and families discover clarity, growth, and harmony in their lives, and I do so with a warm and empathetic approach that places you at the heart of our work together.
I am a dedicated and compassionate counsellor based in beautiful Labrador on the Gold Coast. At V Harmony Counselling, I’m committed to supporting each client with care, respect, and a genuine understanding of life’s challenges. My role is to help individuals, couples, and families discover clarity, growth, and harmony in their lives, and I do so with a warm and empathetic approach that places you at the heart of our work together.
(07) 2801 6275 View (07) 2801 6275
Photo of Joanne Oakes - Trusting Connections Counselling, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Trusting Connections Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Nerang, QLD 4211
Be guided through your counselling journey in nature's tranquil embrace. Our trauma-informed approach nurtures mind, body and spirit utilising expressive therapies. Explore challenges uniquely, through Equine Assisted Therapy, Therapeutic Play & Sand Tray, individually and in groups. We foster self-discovery for all ages, supporting concerns in our judgment-free sanctuary. We meet you where you're at, welcoming all parts of you needing understanding. Develop lifelong coping skills & experience true connection and healing through tailored services in Mudgeeraba's serene hinterland. Embrace balance and growth in this natural setting.
Be guided through your counselling journey in nature's tranquil embrace. Our trauma-informed approach nurtures mind, body and spirit utilising expressive therapies. Explore challenges uniquely, through Equine Assisted Therapy, Therapeutic Play & Sand Tray, individually and in groups. We foster self-discovery for all ages, supporting concerns in our judgment-free sanctuary. We meet you where you're at, welcoming all parts of you needing understanding. Develop lifelong coping skills & experience true connection and healing through tailored services in Mudgeeraba's serene hinterland. Embrace balance and growth in this natural setting.
(08) 8004 6002 View (08) 8004 6002
Photo of Ashleigh Eljed, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Ashleigh Eljed
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Nerang, QLD 4211
Prioritising a client-led, holistic, and compassionate therapeutic style, Ashleigh offers therapy for a broad range of psychological and emotional issues such as, depression, anxiety, panic, worry and stress, adjustment, coping with chronic illness, pain management, emotional regulation, trauma. Ashleigh assists children and adolescents in a range of educational learning difficulties including Intellectual Disability, Learning Difficulties, Dyslexia, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, as well as individuals who have experienced post traumatic stress disorder, complex childhood trauma, sexual abuse, and borderline personality disorder.
Prioritising a client-led, holistic, and compassionate therapeutic style, Ashleigh offers therapy for a broad range of psychological and emotional issues such as, depression, anxiety, panic, worry and stress, adjustment, coping with chronic illness, pain management, emotional regulation, trauma. Ashleigh assists children and adolescents in a range of educational learning difficulties including Intellectual Disability, Learning Difficulties, Dyslexia, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, as well as individuals who have experienced post traumatic stress disorder, complex childhood trauma, sexual abuse, and borderline personality disorder.
(03) 6163 1740 View (03) 6163 1740
Photo of Sandy Ogier - Psych-ed Psychology / Sandy Ogier, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Psych-ed Psychology / Sandy Ogier
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Nerang, QLD 4211
We offer 100% customised treatment plan, combining specific self-exploration and mindfulness, with the result of feeling less stuck and being able to move forward in life using inner strengths long term. A powerful new psychotherapy based on cutting-edge research into how the human mind works (3rd wave CBT), called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ACT, is used to create a meaningful life (perspectives and values) and skills. It has been clinically proven to be successful in a wide range of psychological problems such as Anxiety, trauma, self/shame, depression, stress, bullying, emotions/anger/grief, sleep, and suicidal thoughts.
We offer 100% customised treatment plan, combining specific self-exploration and mindfulness, with the result of feeling less stuck and being able to move forward in life using inner strengths long term. A powerful new psychotherapy based on cutting-edge research into how the human mind works (3rd wave CBT), called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ACT, is used to create a meaningful life (perspectives and values) and skills. It has been clinically proven to be successful in a wide range of psychological problems such as Anxiety, trauma, self/shame, depression, stress, bullying, emotions/anger/grief, sleep, and suicidal thoughts.
(03) 6146 3252 View (03) 6146 3252
Photo of Michelle van Namen - Integrated Health Specialists, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Integrated Health Specialists
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Nerang, QLD 4211
Integrated Health Specialists is a well-established psychology and wellness clinic, located in Mudgeeraba on the Gold Coast. Michelle has over 25 years experience helping clients to improve their mental health, overcome life’s challenges, and improve overall quality of life. Providing many services to adults including psychology, counselling, life coaching, hypnotherapy, EFT, NLP and weight loss programs, just to name a few. Areas of specialisations are stress, anxiety, depression, phobias, obesity, low self-esteem, lack of confidence, insomnia, perfectionism, OCD, and relationship challenges.
Integrated Health Specialists is a well-established psychology and wellness clinic, located in Mudgeeraba on the Gold Coast. Michelle has over 25 years experience helping clients to improve their mental health, overcome life’s challenges, and improve overall quality of life. Providing many services to adults including psychology, counselling, life coaching, hypnotherapy, EFT, NLP and weight loss programs, just to name a few. Areas of specialisations are stress, anxiety, depression, phobias, obesity, low self-esteem, lack of confidence, insomnia, perfectionism, OCD, and relationship challenges.
(07) 5569 0115 View (07) 5569 0115
Photo of Pamela Chetty (Gold Coast), MSc, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Pamela Chetty (Gold Coast)
Counsellor, MSc, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Nerang, QLD 4211
Healthy relationships are an integral part of living a fulfilled life. When we face life’s challenges, however, we may resort to unhealthy ways of dealing with it like belittling each other or not validating a partner’s emotions (to name a few). Couples counselling is an extremely useful tool for repairing and strengthening your relationship. As your couples/sex therapist, I can help with: Reconnecting to create security and safety in the relationship; Rebuilding trust and safety after an affair/infidelity; Communication issues; Couple goals/vision; Sex and intimacy issues; Parenting issues; Co-parenting; Separation and transition.
Healthy relationships are an integral part of living a fulfilled life. When we face life’s challenges, however, we may resort to unhealthy ways of dealing with it like belittling each other or not validating a partner’s emotions (to name a few). Couples counselling is an extremely useful tool for repairing and strengthening your relationship. As your couples/sex therapist, I can help with: Reconnecting to create security and safety in the relationship; Rebuilding trust and safety after an affair/infidelity; Communication issues; Couple goals/vision; Sex and intimacy issues; Parenting issues; Co-parenting; Separation and transition.
(07) 2801 7207 View (07) 2801 7207
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See more therapy options for Nerang

How does your Counsellor compare?

Number of Counsellors in Nerang, QLD

30+

Average cost per session

$180

Counsellors in Nerang, QLD who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
83% Depression
80% Relationship Issues
77% Trauma and PTSD
73% Self Esteem
70% Stress
67% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

57% Medicare Rebates
57% NDIS
52% Bupa

How Counsellors in Nerang, QLD see their clients

87% In Person and Online
13% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
24% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling

How can I find a therapist in Nerang?

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.