What can I expect at the first session?
The first session is an opportunity to meet and discuss your concerns, explore the nature and history of your issues and what you hope to achieve from coming to counselling. At the end of the session, a summary will be shared with you based on the information gathered from the discussion. This summary will include an agreed course of treatment and what to expect for future sessions. If you choose to continue with counselling, another appointment can be scheduled at this time.
How long are appointments?
Sessions for individuals are 60 minutes in duration. First sessions for couples and families are 90 minutes. Subsequent sessions are 60 minutes unless otherwise negotiated.
How much does it cost?
The Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) recommended fee for a standard 60 minutes consultation is $240. Pamela has scheduled her fees at $185 for a standard 60 minutes consultation.
How often do I need to attend?
There is no minimum or set number of sessions that you need to attend. Your make your initial booking and then you can choose how often you would like to attend. At times weekly appointments may be necessary depending on the nature of the concerns, however most clients come fortnightly, and then progress to monthly sessions as their concerns resolve.
How long do I need to attend?
It depends on the issue you want help resolving and the particular gains you have made from each counselling session. On average people attend between 4 – 12 sessions. For some people only 1 or 2 sessions may be needed to work through concerns and achieve results. Others might choose to attend for a longer period as they find ongoing sessions are providing them with ongoing benefits.
What if I can’t attend my appointment?
If you need to cancel your scheduled appointment, please do so as soon as possible, so your time may be allocated to another person. Cancellations with less than 24 hours notice may incur a cancellation fee.
Will counselling be confidential?
Information discussed in sessions is confidential except when:
- failure to disclose information would put you or someone else at risk, or
- it is subpoenaed by a court, or
- you have provided the counsellor with prior approval to provide personal information to another person such as your GP.
What happens to the notes taken during the session?
Notes taken during the session are kept secure. It is a requirement to securely store files for seven years after the completion of counselling, after which time they are destroyed.
Do I need a referral?
A referral is not required. However, in some circumstances it is possible to claim a rebate from Medicare when accessing psychological services. You will need to see your GP or psychiatrist to discuss your eligibility if you wish to claim a rebate from Medicare.