FAQ

We provide a safe space for you to explore your inner thoughts and feelings, and I will be your sounding board with a non-judgmental listening ear. Counseling can help you identify, understand and regulate your emotions, develop distress tolerance, coping strategies, improve communication skills, strengthen relationships, set and achieve personal goals.

At your first counselling session, it is like a “get to know each other” session to see if we are a good fit for each other. There may be some questionnaires to fill, and confidentiality consent is also explained. We will establish therapeutic goals and areas of focus for sessions moving forward.

You should have a suitable device, such as a desktop computer, a laptop, a tablet, or a phone that has a video camera and can support video conferencing.

Find a comfortable place for you, and if necessary, have things like tissues, tea or coffee, or a favourite drink of your choice. If possible, please find a space that has minimal distractions, preferably with a stable and secure internet connection.

No, counselling does not require a referral from the GP. You may book directly with us.

No, Medicare does not cover counselling.

If you have a current mental health care plan from the GP you may see a psychologist to claim Medicare, however our fees are set similar to that of the gap fees of a psychologist.

Some private insurance companies can let you claim rebate. The amount of rebate varies depending on the cover you have selected with your health fund.

All sessions run for 60 minutes, unless agreed on otherwise.

The costs involved are:

• Individual Sessions $165 AUD
• Couples and Families Sessions $225 AUD
• Prepare/Enrich Sessions $300 AUD

Please note that concession rates are available for low-income earners with a low-income health care card, full-time students, and pensioners. Some other financial circumstances may be considered – please enquire for further details.

Additional travel fees may apply for face-to-face counselling sessions out of the Hills District, please enquire for more info.

Payment Methods

If you are booked in for a Telehealth consultation, or are a new client attending the centre for an initial appointment, payment will be processed 2 business days prior to your scheduled session.

For all other clients and appointment types, payment is made at the end of each session.

We accept cash or card.

We ask for 2 business days’ notice for cancellation or rescheduling of appointments. Any appointments cancelled or rescheduled outside of this timeframe will be required to pay the full fee, regardless of the reason. If you fail to attend your scheduled appointment, you will also be charged the full fee.

The time it takes to see results varies depending on the individual and their specific issues. Counselling is not meant to be long term support however after the initial intense (once a week) therapy some will opt for once a fortnight then down to monthly or less frequency as maintenace.  A mutual last session will be conducted as you exit counselling.

Some people may feel better after a few sessions, while others may need ongoing support for several months or longer.

Voices of Hope follows strict confidentiality policies and adhere to ethical guidelines according to the ACA and PACFA to ensure your privacy and the protection of your personal information.