FAQs

Counselling is a talking therapy that involves a professional counsellor listening to you and helping you find ways to deal with your mental health issues. It is a valuable resource for individuals facing various mental health challenges.

I would recommend a psychologist if you are looking for a diagnosis, have complex mental health needs, or if you need a team approach to your mental health.

Counselling focuses on understanding your experiences and emotions, rather than diagnosing or prescribing medication. If you're looking to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, work through specific life challenges, and prefer a more relaxed and goal-directed approach rooted in evidence-based methods, then counseling might be the right choice for you.

Counselling offers several benefits including:

• Explore thoughts and feelings: Discuss your thoughts, feelings, and concerns without judgement.

• Develop coping strategies: Learn and practice effective coping strategies for different situations.

• Practice self-reflection: Enhance your self-awareness through self-reflection.

• Work on habits: Address habits you would like to change.

• Improve relationships: Understand and communicate better in relationships.

Finding the right counsellor is an important and personal decision. Look for someone with the right qualifications who’s also a member of a professional counselling body. But just as important as credentials is how you feel in their presence. In your first session, you should feel safe, comfortable, and heard. A good counsellor creates a nonjudgmental space where you can speak freely, shows genuine care, and explains things in ways that make sense to you. They should also be clear about their approach, fees, and confidentiality. The therapeutic relationship is a partnership—and the right fit can make all the difference.

I can assist with a wide range of issues, including:

• ADHD

• Anxiety and depression

• Grief and loss

• Trauma

• Stress and anger management

• Self-esteem and personal-growth issues

• Life transitions

• Workplace challenges / burnout

• Relationship issues

… and many more.

I work with teenagers through to older adults.

No referral or mental health care plan is needed. The benefit of this is that you can book an appointment directly with me, and there is no limit on the number of sessions you can have.

I’m a registered provider with BUPA and several ARHG-affiliated health funds, including Police Health, Emergency Services Health, Phoenix Health, St Lukes Health, GMHBA, see-u by HBF (telehealth only), Teachers Union Health, AIA, and Westfund.

The initial consultation is a chance for us to get to know each other. We’ll briefly chat about what’s brought you here, what changes you’re hoping for, and whether I’m the right fit for you as a counsellor. I’ll also share a bit about how I work and how I might be able to support you. You’re welcome to ask any questions, and there’s no pressure—at the end of our chat, you can choose to book a session or take some time to think it over.

For Walk & Talk sessions, we’ll meet at the chosen location. If you prefer Telehealth, you can join via video or phone from wherever you feel most comfortable. For phone sessions, I’ll call you at the number you provide when booking. For video sessions, I’ll send you a secure link before your session starts.

In your first counselling session, I will explain the counselling process including confidentiality and my approach. You will have a chance to talk about your feelings, emotions, and the challenges you are experiencing. I will listen without judgement or criticism. Together, we will set some goals and work out a way to move forward.

Confidentiality is a vital part of building trust in counselling. As a registered counsellor, I’m committed to following professional codes of ethics and confidentiality standards that protect your privacy and wellbeing. You can find more information in my Privacy Policy.

Sessions typically last 50 minutes. If needed, we can extend the session time for in-person or telehealth sessions if either of us feels it would be helpful.

We’ll decide together what feels right for you. Some people choose 4–8 sessions, others prefer ongoing support. Sessions can start weekly and move to fortnightly or monthly, or be adjusted as needed — even twice-weekly if you’d like to work through things more quickly.

Research shows that telehealth counselling is just as effective as in-person sessions for issues like anxiety and depression. It also offers the added benefits of accessibility, flexibility, and the convenience of connecting from a place that feels comfortable to you.

You do not need a mental health diagnosis to benefit from counselling. Many people come simply to talk things through, gain clarity, or get support during challenging times.

Full-time tertiary students receive a 15% discount on standard fees. You’ll need to provide proof of full-time student status along with a photo ID (e.g., student card).

Additionally, you can save 15% when you book a package of 3 sessions.

I understand that things happen and it may not always be possible to attend a scheduled appointment. However, I do ask that you let me know if you are unable to attend you appointment.

• Cancellations less than 24 hours before the time of your appointment incur a 50% cancellation fee.

• Failure to attend an appointment without providing prior notice incurs a 100% cancellation fee.

• If a medical certificate can be provided within 48 hours after the missed appointment, which demonstrates your inability to attend due to ill health, we may, in our sole discretion, agree to waive all or part of your cancellation fee.

There’s no pressure to commit to a set number of sessions. Counselling is your choice, and you’re free to stop at any time. If you decide it’s not the right fit or you’d like to take a break, just let me know. I respect your decision and appreciate you keeping me in the loop.

Just click any of the BOOK NOW buttons—this will open the booking page in a new window. From there, choose the type of counselling you'd like, pick a date and time that works for you, fill in your details, and confirm your booking. You’ll receive a confirmation email once everything’s set.

The easiest way to reach me is through the contact form in the menu bar. You can also email me at catriona@oakcounselling.com.au, call me on +61484569623, or connect on social media for mental health tips and resources.