Counselling in Woodend, VIC

Lyndel Shand
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Woodend, VIC 3442
I am a Clinical Health Psychologist with over a decade of experience. I have previous experience working in a private fertility clinic supporting individuals and couples undergoing assisted reproductive treatments. I use a range of treatment approaches, including CBT, ACT, Schema Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing and am a trained EMDR practitioner.
I am a Clinical Health Psychologist with over a decade of experience. I have previous experience working in a private fertility clinic supporting individuals and couples undergoing assisted reproductive treatments. I use a range of treatment approaches, including CBT, ACT, Schema Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing and am a trained EMDR practitioner.
(03) 4421 6906 View (03) 4421 6906
Photo of Laura Hvala - Mandala Health: Counselling Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, MPsych, ACA-L4
Mandala Health: Counselling Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MPsych, ACA-L4
Woodend, VIC 3442
Hello, my name is Laura. I'm a psychotherapist & relationship counsellor. My therapeutic approach is guided by depth-psychodynamic and analytical principles (est. by Carl Jung). I help clients work through difficult life situations to resolve painful emotional processes, such as depression, anxiety, anger, grief, sadness, isolation & despair, to gain new insights, understanding and acceptance; and to develop deeper, more authentic and intimate relationships with others. I also recognise and provide specialised interventions for complex trauma & PTSD; including: TRTP (The Richards Trauma Process), EMDR, TFT & Sandplay therapy.
Hello, my name is Laura. I'm a psychotherapist & relationship counsellor. My therapeutic approach is guided by depth-psychodynamic and analytical principles (est. by Carl Jung). I help clients work through difficult life situations to resolve painful emotional processes, such as depression, anxiety, anger, grief, sadness, isolation & despair, to gain new insights, understanding and acceptance; and to develop deeper, more authentic and intimate relationships with others. I also recognise and provide specialised interventions for complex trauma & PTSD; including: TRTP (The Richards Trauma Process), EMDR, TFT & Sandplay therapy.
(03) 4427 7446 View (03) 4427 7446
Photo of Cheri Huggins - Fantastic Therapy, Psychotherapist, MA
Fantastic Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA
Woodend, VIC 3442
Your mental health is key to living the life you want for yourself. If you are experiencing burnout, feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or experiencing a depressed mood, I can help. I can help you address your anxiety and help you to feel more connected to yourself and more connected in your relationships. I can help you with life transitions and help find solutions to your challenges. Working together we can get the sustainable results you seek.
Your mental health is key to living the life you want for yourself. If you are experiencing burnout, feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or experiencing a depressed mood, I can help. I can help you address your anxiety and help you to feel more connected to yourself and more connected in your relationships. I can help you with life transitions and help find solutions to your challenges. Working together we can get the sustainable results you seek.
(03) 4422 2422 View (03) 4422 2422
Photo of Martin Gladman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Martin Gladman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Woodend, VIC 3442
Hello, my name is Martin. I work as a Clinical Sexologist, Relationship Counsellor and Accredited Mental Health Social Worker. As a Clinical Sexologist, I support individuals and their partner/s to address concerns about their sexual function and overall sexual well-being. These can include difficulties relating to erectile dysfunction, premature or delayed ejaculation, vulvodynia, vaginismus, as well as other difficulties with sex and relating. I also support clients in discussing topics relating to sexuality and gender more generally, with a particular interest in helping people with unwanted or distressing legal paraphilias.
Hello, my name is Martin. I work as a Clinical Sexologist, Relationship Counsellor and Accredited Mental Health Social Worker. As a Clinical Sexologist, I support individuals and their partner/s to address concerns about their sexual function and overall sexual well-being. These can include difficulties relating to erectile dysfunction, premature or delayed ejaculation, vulvodynia, vaginismus, as well as other difficulties with sex and relating. I also support clients in discussing topics relating to sexuality and gender more generally, with a particular interest in helping people with unwanted or distressing legal paraphilias.
(02) 4504 0147 View (02) 4504 0147
Photo of Rebecca Bobin, Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Rebecca Bobin
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Woodend, VIC 3442
Rebecca is a warm and engaging Clinical Psychologist with 10+ years’ experience, and has the ability to genuinely connect with people. Rebecca is skilled at developing a therapeutic space in which her clients feel safe and supported to work on their counselling goals. These may include mood issues (depression, anxiety), interpersonal stressors (relationship or communication issues), diagnostic clarification (autism or ADHD assessments), addressing and resolving trauma, self-development, or learning behavioural and cognitive strategies to managing chronic pain or chronic health conditions.
Rebecca is a warm and engaging Clinical Psychologist with 10+ years’ experience, and has the ability to genuinely connect with people. Rebecca is skilled at developing a therapeutic space in which her clients feel safe and supported to work on their counselling goals. These may include mood issues (depression, anxiety), interpersonal stressors (relationship or communication issues), diagnostic clarification (autism or ADHD assessments), addressing and resolving trauma, self-development, or learning behavioural and cognitive strategies to managing chronic pain or chronic health conditions.
(03) 4420 9743 View (03) 4420 9743
Photo of Julie Wacker, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Julie Wacker
Counsellor, ACA-L2
2 Endorsed
Woodend, VIC 3442
I am a counsellor and Life Coach located in Sunbury. Life can be very tough and stressful and sometimes we need some professional help. I am committed to the care of clients ranging from adolescents, adults, elderly and couples. I work with individual and couples who would like to overcome difficulties in their current situation. Each client is unique hence requires a personal counselling approach that is catered entirely for them. My approach incorporates empathy, professionalism and mindfulness. Many individuals may find themselves experiencing various financial, mental and / or physical struggles.
I am a counsellor and Life Coach located in Sunbury. Life can be very tough and stressful and sometimes we need some professional help. I am committed to the care of clients ranging from adolescents, adults, elderly and couples. I work with individual and couples who would like to overcome difficulties in their current situation. Each client is unique hence requires a personal counselling approach that is catered entirely for them. My approach incorporates empathy, professionalism and mindfulness. Many individuals may find themselves experiencing various financial, mental and / or physical struggles.
(03) 8007 2065 View (03) 8007 2065
Photo of Pete Ekstedt - Ekstedt Consulting, Counsellor, PACFA
Ekstedt Consulting
Counsellor, PACFA
Woodend, VIC 3442
Senior leaders, busy professionals and creative entrepreneurs need to manage an unprecedented range of competing demands across their personal and professional lives. The pressure can be relentless, and career success can come at a high cost. Stress can have serious impacts on mental health, family relationships and physical well-being. Travel and work schedules can undermine marriages/partnerships and parenting. It makes sense to invest in your resilience, wellbeing and self care because resilient leaders achieve more.
Senior leaders, busy professionals and creative entrepreneurs need to manage an unprecedented range of competing demands across their personal and professional lives. The pressure can be relentless, and career success can come at a high cost. Stress can have serious impacts on mental health, family relationships and physical well-being. Travel and work schedules can undermine marriages/partnerships and parenting. It makes sense to invest in your resilience, wellbeing and self care because resilient leaders achieve more.
(03) 9118 9047 View (03) 9118 9047
Photo of Marvel Adeyemi - Marvel Yemi-Family of Origin-pains. EMDR Therapist, Counsellor, MSc, ACA-L4
Marvel Yemi-Family of Origin-pains. EMDR Therapist
Counsellor, MSc, ACA-L4
Serves Area
Did you experience abuse or emotional neglect? Do you feel unworthy of love, stuck in guilt, deep shame, and self blame or wrestling with your faith and identity? Maybe you struggle to trust others… or feel like you don’t truly belong — not with family, friends, or even at work. Here’s something they won't tell you in the mainstream: Success doesn't silence inner child wounds. Imagine this instead... You wake up in peace instead of panic. Feel confident in your relationships. Feeling connected to God and grounded in truth. Letting go of shame and finally trusting again. Become confident and Beautiful. Yes you can heal -deeply.
Did you experience abuse or emotional neglect? Do you feel unworthy of love, stuck in guilt, deep shame, and self blame or wrestling with your faith and identity? Maybe you struggle to trust others… or feel like you don’t truly belong — not with family, friends, or even at work. Here’s something they won't tell you in the mainstream: Success doesn't silence inner child wounds. Imagine this instead... You wake up in peace instead of panic. Feel confident in your relationships. Feeling connected to God and grounded in truth. Letting go of shame and finally trusting again. Become confident and Beautiful. Yes you can heal -deeply.
(03) 9034 5974 View (03) 9034 5974
Photo of Helen Fraser, Psychologist, MAPS
Helen Fraser
Psychologist, MAPS
Online Only
As a psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience, I focus on helping individuals and couples navigate the challenging terrain of relational trauma, abuse recovery, and relationship transformation. My approach integrates deep psychological work with practical strategies for healing and growth, drawing upon psychoanalytic understanding, EMDR trauma processing, dream analysis, and body-based awareness. Relational trauma can emerge from various experiences, including narcissistic abuse, family estrangement, workplace psychological abuse, and toxic relationship patterns. These experiences often leave deep emotional wounds.
As a psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience, I focus on helping individuals and couples navigate the challenging terrain of relational trauma, abuse recovery, and relationship transformation. My approach integrates deep psychological work with practical strategies for healing and growth, drawing upon psychoanalytic understanding, EMDR trauma processing, dream analysis, and body-based awareness. Relational trauma can emerge from various experiences, including narcissistic abuse, family estrangement, workplace psychological abuse, and toxic relationship patterns. These experiences often leave deep emotional wounds.
(03) 8595 5347 View (03) 8595 5347
Photo of Kimberley Kifun, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Kimberley Kifun
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with trauma, self esteem, relationship issues, addiction, anxiety, depression, grief, as well as spiritual and existential concerns. I utilise an integrative approach using many different modalities such as somatic, attachment and internal family systems and we collaboratively sculpt a treatment plan that suits you. I am committed to creating a safe and welcoming space where you can explore all aspects of yourself. Your autonomy is paramount, and I work collaboratively with you to develop a personalised treatment plan that addresses your unique needs.
I work with trauma, self esteem, relationship issues, addiction, anxiety, depression, grief, as well as spiritual and existential concerns. I utilise an integrative approach using many different modalities such as somatic, attachment and internal family systems and we collaboratively sculpt a treatment plan that suits you. I am committed to creating a safe and welcoming space where you can explore all aspects of yourself. Your autonomy is paramount, and I work collaboratively with you to develop a personalised treatment plan that addresses your unique needs.
(03) 4427 7030 View (03) 4427 7030
Photo of Terry Gaechter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Terry Gaechter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I come to the therapeutic space with a deep curiosity about life and the people I meet there, their stories, their lives, their relationships with others and most importantly with themselves. I join with you and guide you to discover the more hidden parts of yourself that you haven’t yet explored or have only touched on. Perhaps there’s a difficult or recurring issue from your personal or professional life that you would like to address. It could be grief, loss, depression, anxiety, addiction, dissociation, historical or current trauma, life transition, identity or relationship issues, or even existential questions and concerns.
I come to the therapeutic space with a deep curiosity about life and the people I meet there, their stories, their lives, their relationships with others and most importantly with themselves. I join with you and guide you to discover the more hidden parts of yourself that you haven’t yet explored or have only touched on. Perhaps there’s a difficult or recurring issue from your personal or professional life that you would like to address. It could be grief, loss, depression, anxiety, addiction, dissociation, historical or current trauma, life transition, identity or relationship issues, or even existential questions and concerns.
(07) 4520 6046 View (07) 4520 6046
Photo of Marie Mirbach (The Present Place), Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Marie Mirbach (The Present Place)
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi there, I’m Marie and I love creating spaces for people to realise the patterns of their own minds and work towards feeling more alive and connected. As an integrative psychotherapist I work with couples and individuals in a way that honours your uniqueness as well as recognises the circumstances shaping your life. My approach is warm, inquisitive and creative and above all else I value collaborating with you to ensure we are creating processes that let you feel safe, inspired and closer to your most authentic and empowered self. I specialise in eating disorders, ASD, gender/identity and relationship problems.
Hi there, I’m Marie and I love creating spaces for people to realise the patterns of their own minds and work towards feeling more alive and connected. As an integrative psychotherapist I work with couples and individuals in a way that honours your uniqueness as well as recognises the circumstances shaping your life. My approach is warm, inquisitive and creative and above all else I value collaborating with you to ensure we are creating processes that let you feel safe, inspired and closer to your most authentic and empowered self. I specialise in eating disorders, ASD, gender/identity and relationship problems.
(03) 4420 9044 View (03) 4420 9044
Photo of Owen Weatherley, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Owen Weatherley
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Owen is a clinically trained registered psychologist who is skilled in providing a supportive space for patients to deepen insight, build self-acceptance and remove barriers to personal growth. Owen enjoys working with a range of psychological issues including anxiety, depression, anger, borderline personality/traits, trauma and relationship difficulties. Owen has experience working with older adolescents and adults of all ages. Owen’s therapeutic approach has a psychodynamic emphasis, while also drawing on other evidence-based approaches to ensure therapy fits the needs and goals of patients.
Owen is a clinically trained registered psychologist who is skilled in providing a supportive space for patients to deepen insight, build self-acceptance and remove barriers to personal growth. Owen enjoys working with a range of psychological issues including anxiety, depression, anger, borderline personality/traits, trauma and relationship difficulties. Owen has experience working with older adolescents and adults of all ages. Owen’s therapeutic approach has a psychodynamic emphasis, while also drawing on other evidence-based approaches to ensure therapy fits the needs and goals of patients.
(03) 7003 2704 View (03) 7003 2704
Photo of San Leenstra, Counsellor, MA, AThR
San Leenstra
Counsellor, MA, AThR
Serves Area
I am passionate about working collaboratively and believe in balancing honesty with warmth and care, being straight forward as well as gentle, kind and non-judgemental. I work client-centred, with unconditional positive regard and allow each perspective to be heard, valued and taken seriously. I support each individual to explore their own unique way of being in this world, with all its challenges and rewards. I invite you to embrace a journey of self-discovery and growth in a safe, supportive environment where your voice matters.
I am passionate about working collaboratively and believe in balancing honesty with warmth and care, being straight forward as well as gentle, kind and non-judgemental. I work client-centred, with unconditional positive regard and allow each perspective to be heard, valued and taken seriously. I support each individual to explore their own unique way of being in this world, with all its challenges and rewards. I invite you to embrace a journey of self-discovery and growth in a safe, supportive environment where your voice matters.
(03) 4422 2660 View (03) 4422 2660
Photo of Loz Craig - Trafmor Group , Counsellor, ACA-L3
Trafmor Group
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Serves Area
Do you feel depressed? overwhelmed? like there is too much going on or your losing control of your life? Are you an emotional wreck? Feeling sad, angry or just over it all...Not concentrating at work, around others? Are you getting frustrated or angry with other people...sounds like your mental or emotional health is a little out of balance - that's where we can help. We all need either a minor or a major tune up every now and then.
Do you feel depressed? overwhelmed? like there is too much going on or your losing control of your life? Are you an emotional wreck? Feeling sad, angry or just over it all...Not concentrating at work, around others? Are you getting frustrated or angry with other people...sounds like your mental or emotional health is a little out of balance - that's where we can help. We all need either a minor or a major tune up every now and then.
(03) 4160 2522 View (03) 4160 2522
Photo of Katrina Streatfeild - Streatfeild & Co Psychology , Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Streatfeild & Co Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Welcome to Streatfeild & Co Psychology. We offer face to face appointments from our Macedon Ranges office and national Telehealth services. We support children, young people, families, couples, and adults across the lifespan for mental health, disability and neurodiverse assessment and intervention. Streatfeild & Co Psychology has Provisional, Registered, Clinical and Counselling Psychologists, MH Social Worker and Child & Family Therapist. Fees for hourly services range from $105 to $260. We are accrediated to provide services with most funding bodies.
Welcome to Streatfeild & Co Psychology. We offer face to face appointments from our Macedon Ranges office and national Telehealth services. We support children, young people, families, couples, and adults across the lifespan for mental health, disability and neurodiverse assessment and intervention. Streatfeild & Co Psychology has Provisional, Registered, Clinical and Counselling Psychologists, MH Social Worker and Child & Family Therapist. Fees for hourly services range from $105 to $260. We are accrediated to provide services with most funding bodies.
(03) 9021 1490 View (03) 9021 1490
Photo of Anshula Pem - Shula Pem Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Shula Pem Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I am deeply attuned to the profound nature of developmental psychology, igniting my dedication to working with children, adolescents, and young individuals. Over the course of the last 5 years, I have earnestly honed my clinical expertise by offering assistance to people from diverse backgrounds, spanning ages 4 to 86. However, it is in the realm of child and adolescent psychology that my true passion lies, and thus I have chosen to take a courageous detour in my career to bring focus primarily to this area. I am driven by the desire to make a lasting impact by providing unparalleled compassion and exceptional care.
I am deeply attuned to the profound nature of developmental psychology, igniting my dedication to working with children, adolescents, and young individuals. Over the course of the last 5 years, I have earnestly honed my clinical expertise by offering assistance to people from diverse backgrounds, spanning ages 4 to 86. However, it is in the realm of child and adolescent psychology that my true passion lies, and thus I have chosen to take a courageous detour in my career to bring focus primarily to this area. I am driven by the desire to make a lasting impact by providing unparalleled compassion and exceptional care.
(03) 4427 7413 View (03) 4427 7413
Photo of Mikaela Grant - Care For Your Mind, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Care For Your Mind
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
At Care For Your Mind we care about connection and understand the driver of lasting change is determined by the strength of the therapeutic relationship. Care For Your Mind is a private practice located in Bendigo providing counselling and psychological assessments to adults, young people, children and their families. We work with a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, anger management, behavioural concerns, grief & loss, sexualised behaviours and trauma presentations.
At Care For Your Mind we care about connection and understand the driver of lasting change is determined by the strength of the therapeutic relationship. Care For Your Mind is a private practice located in Bendigo providing counselling and psychological assessments to adults, young people, children and their families. We work with a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, anger management, behavioural concerns, grief & loss, sexualised behaviours and trauma presentations.
(03) 4422 2180 View (03) 4422 2180
Photo of Raissa Donadon Berne, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Raissa Donadon Berne
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
I am a psychologist with experience in helping people with a diverse range of mental health concerns and life challenges, such as depression, insomnia, anxiety, panic and grief, among others. I am committed to keeping a stance of curiosity, humbleness and collaboration in therapy and I am interested in working with people who want to find ways to make life more meaningful. I focus on building a strong, supportive relationship with my clients to help them explore their feelings and experiences in a safe and contained space. I stand for social justice, value diversity and use an intersectionality approach.
I am a psychologist with experience in helping people with a diverse range of mental health concerns and life challenges, such as depression, insomnia, anxiety, panic and grief, among others. I am committed to keeping a stance of curiosity, humbleness and collaboration in therapy and I am interested in working with people who want to find ways to make life more meaningful. I focus on building a strong, supportive relationship with my clients to help them explore their feelings and experiences in a safe and contained space. I stand for social justice, value diversity and use an intersectionality approach.
(03) 8771 5416 View (03) 8771 5416
Photo of Nina Isabella, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Nina Isabella
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Twenty years of specialist experience supporting women navigating challenges of perinatal mental health; motherhood; menopausing; endometriosis, inflammatory and chronic illness; and pelvic floor dysfunction. Fundamental life transitions can bring feelings of loss; grief; anxiety; depression; and questioning our sense of identity and purpose. I love drawing on a rich suite of therapeutic tools - empathetic counselling; mindfulness; breathwork and therapeutic yoga for intrinsically trauma informed explorations of the unique physical, emotional, spiritual, cultural, environmental, social factors influencing your wellbeing.
Twenty years of specialist experience supporting women navigating challenges of perinatal mental health; motherhood; menopausing; endometriosis, inflammatory and chronic illness; and pelvic floor dysfunction. Fundamental life transitions can bring feelings of loss; grief; anxiety; depression; and questioning our sense of identity and purpose. I love drawing on a rich suite of therapeutic tools - empathetic counselling; mindfulness; breathwork and therapeutic yoga for intrinsically trauma informed explorations of the unique physical, emotional, spiritual, cultural, environmental, social factors influencing your wellbeing.
(03) 4422 4945 View (03) 4422 4945

How does your Counsellor compare?

Number of Counsellors in Woodend, VIC

20+

Average cost per session

$185

Counsellors in Woodend, VIC who prioritize treating:

96% Depression
92% Relationship Issues
92% Anxiety
92% Stress
85% Self Esteem
69% Women's Issues
69% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% Medicare Rebates
44% Bupa
44% Medibank Private

How Counsellors in Woodend, VIC see their clients

81% In Person and Online
19% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling

How can I find a therapist in Woodend?

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.