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Frequently Asked Questions
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What Do Mental Health Social Workers Do? Roles, Treatments & SupportMental health social workers are qualified social workers with specialised training in mental health assessments, treatments and interventions. They provide evidence-based psychological strategies, such as CBT, DBT, ACT, and EMDR, to individuals facing various mental health issues. They consider the person within their environment, helping to identify and address social and environmental factors to improve quality of life. As experts in complexity, they are well-suited to support individuals dealing with multiple challenges, including mental health, family, finances, and legal issues.
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Counselling vs. Therapy: Understanding the Key DifferencesCounselling and therapy are often used interchangeably, but they serve distinct purposes. Counselling focuses on specific challenges, offering short-term solutions and practical strategies for issues like stress, relationships, or career transitions. Therapy, on the other hand, explores deeper emotional and psychological factors, supporting long-term healing and personal growth. Counsellors provide guidance, support, and psychoeducation, while therapists use evidence-based techniques like Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, and experiential therapies to address underlying issues. Counsellors may have various certifications, while therapists typically hold advanced degrees in psychology, social work, or counselling and are licensed to practice therapy.
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Therapy Session Length, Frequency & What to ExpectSession Duration & Fees Individual sessions last 50–60 minutes, while family sessions run for 90 minutes. For detailed pricing, please refer to the fee schedule. Session Frequency In the beginning, sessions are typically weekly or fortnightly, depending on your needs. Weekly sessions are recommended initially to build a strong therapeutic connection, clarify goals, and maximise treatment effectiveness. Research shows that consistent weekly sessions lead to better outcomes. Treatment Duration The length of treatment depends on the complexity of the issue: Counselling: Typically short-term, with 4–6 sessions showing significant progress. Therapy: Longer-term, focusing on deeper emotional and psychological healing. Family Therapy: A minimum of 4–6 sessions is recommended to effectively address relational dynamics and foster positive change.
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Affordable Therapy: Rebate & Sliding ScaleCurrently, no rebates are available. However, if you hold a concession card or are facing financial hardship, please reach out to discuss sliding scale fee options. I also support NDIS plan-managed and self-managed participants under Capacity Building and Psychological Assistance funding.
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Counselling & Therapy Session FeesAll counselling and therapy sessions are billed as per the fee schedule.
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Cancellation PolicyIf you need to change or cancel your appointment, please provide at least 24 hours' notice. If you are unable to attend in person, we can switch to a telehealth session (phone or online). For late cancellations (less than 24 hours' notice) or no-shows, a fee will apply. The fee is based on the type and duration of the originally scheduled session and must be paid along with the next consultation fee or in advance. Your understanding and cooperation is greatly appreciated.
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ConfidentialityAny information you share with your counsellor or therapist remains confidential. I adhere to the Ethics and Practice Guidelines outlined by the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW), ensuring your privacy is protected. Before starting treatment, I will go over all ethical obligations regarding confidentiality with you.
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