What to expect from your first session

Your first session is an opportunity for us to explore what has brought you to therapy and what you hope to achieve. It’s a chance for me to explain how the process works, the techniques I use, and how we can tailor our work together to suit your needs. In this initial meeting, you can expect to feel heard and understood as you share your concerns. While the deeper therapeutic relief comes with time and ongoing sessions, the first step is often a sense of relief simply from being able to talk openly about your worries.

What should I bring with me?

It’s helpful to come with an idea of what you hope to achieve in therapy, though I understand that sometimes it can be difficult to pinpoint exactly what’s going on. You might be experiencing a general sense of unease, sadness, or confusion without a clear cause. That’s perfectly okay. Together, we can explore and clarify your goals as we begin our work together.

Do I need a referral?

You do not need a referral to begin therapy with me. You are welcome to reach out directly.

How many sessions will I need?

There’s no set timeframe for therapy—it’s guided by you and your unique needs. Some people may feel they’ve worked through an issue in around ten sessions, while others might choose to return for deeper work later on. Some clients find a shorter series of sessions is enough to feel a shift, while others may need a longer course of therapy to explore multiple layers. The pace is entirely up to you.

What is the difference between counselling, psychotherapy, psychology?

Each of these practices has its place in therapeutic support:

• Counselling typically focuses on a specific issue, providing short-term relief. It often addresses one particular concern, such as stress, or a relationship difficulty. Counselling typically lasts 8-10 sessions.

• Psychotherapy goes beyond immediate concerns to explore how past experiences and deeper emotional patterns affect various aspects of your life. This process seeks to uncover hidden emotions and resolve long-standing conflicts. Psychotherapy tends to be more holistic and open-ended.

• Psychology usually involves a clinical approach, with a focus on diagnosing specific mental health conditions and providing treatment. Psychologists often work with more structured methodologies and may integrate assessment and testing to inform treatment.

How do I know when to stop therapy?

The decision to stop therapy is personal and often comes when you feel a sustained sense of relief, understanding, or growth. We’ll work together to assess when it feels like the right time to end therapy, ensuring that you’re equipped to continue your journey independently. Sometimes, the fit may no longer feel right, and in those cases, I encourage open feedback so that I can also grow. It’s important that you feel supported through every phase of your therapeutic journey.

How long is a session?

Each session lasts 50 minutes.

Where are sessions conducted?

In-person sessions are held at 275 Bay Road, Cheltenham, Victoria.

• Telehealth (online) sessions are also available, offering the flexibility to meet from the comfort of your home.

What is a mental health treatment plan?

A mental health treatment plan can be requested from your GP and if granted, allows for upto 10 sessions of mental health treatment that is partially subsidised by medicare.