Counselling in Victoria
![Photo of Suzanne Bouillet - Zane Bouillet](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/db5f470e-5d1e-401e-8e95-a1413a3bcd99/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Zane (they/them) and I am a non-binary and neurodivergent counsellor. I work with young people (12-25) and adults of all genders seeking support with a variety of challenges. These include anxiety, depression, self-worth, navigating neurodiversity (including ADHD and autism), exploring gender identity and/or sexuality, body image issues, grief around life transitions, chronic illness and chronic pain. Are you stuck in cycles of overwhelm that you just can’t seem to get out of? Do you struggle with shame and self-criticism? Do you have a strong sense that something needs to change, but you don’t know where to start?
Hello, my name is Zane (they/them) and I am a non-binary and neurodivergent counsellor. I work with young people (12-25) and adults of all genders seeking support with a variety of challenges. These include anxiety, depression, self-worth, navigating neurodiversity (including ADHD and autism), exploring gender identity and/or sexuality, body image issues, grief around life transitions, chronic illness and chronic pain. Are you stuck in cycles of overwhelm that you just can’t seem to get out of? Do you struggle with shame and self-criticism? Do you have a strong sense that something needs to change, but you don’t know where to start?
![Photo of Samuel Hardidge - Stonewater Art Therapy, PACFA, Psychotherapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/898e3365-43d8-486b-af95-d96cdd954d96/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I'm Samuel (He/They/She/Any) and I'm a non-binary/genderfluid Arts Psychotherapist. In life I have used the creative arts as a way of understanding, listening to and responding to my experiences and inner conflicts. I’m passionate about integrating our inner and outer selves and believe in the value the arts offer in encountering resources and parts of ourselves which aren’t accessed in normal daily life. I offer a gentle, non-judgemental and inclusive therapeutic space for you to reveal yourself as we explore struggles, hopes and what growth and resolution looks like for you at this time.
Hi, I'm Samuel (He/They/She/Any) and I'm a non-binary/genderfluid Arts Psychotherapist. In life I have used the creative arts as a way of understanding, listening to and responding to my experiences and inner conflicts. I’m passionate about integrating our inner and outer selves and believe in the value the arts offer in encountering resources and parts of ourselves which aren’t accessed in normal daily life. I offer a gentle, non-judgemental and inclusive therapeutic space for you to reveal yourself as we explore struggles, hopes and what growth and resolution looks like for you at this time.
![Photo of Jowita Paulina Jackowski, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/302a7b36-34db-49a0-97d8-852e34f9cde8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Jowita. I am a professional psychosocial counselor registered with the Australian Federation of Psychotherapy and Counseling. I speak Polish and English. I have experience working with culturally and linguistically diverse clients who are struggling with the stress of various life changes. I also have almost 17 years of experience supporting young people and adults with special needs to discover and achieve their goals. I am happy to support NIDS recipients.
Hello, my name is Jowita. I am a professional psychosocial counselor registered with the Australian Federation of Psychotherapy and Counseling. I speak Polish and English. I have experience working with culturally and linguistically diverse clients who are struggling with the stress of various life changes. I also have almost 17 years of experience supporting young people and adults with special needs to discover and achieve their goals. I am happy to support NIDS recipients.
![Photo of Lisa Kerr, AThR, Psychotherapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/d81098be-1176-494a-a14a-8332264ee336/1/320x400.jpeg)
I'm Lisa, a dedicated Creative Art Therapist with a Master’s training and registration with Anzacata. With a rich background spanning in areas of advocacy, disability support, creative development, and leadership, I bring a wealth of experience to my practice. My passion lies in fostering connections and facilitating growth across all ages and needs. I especially love connecting with fellow neurodivergent kin. In my practice, I embrace non-judgmental acceptance and inclusion, emphasising safety, trauma informed, person-centred, and neuro-affirming principles. Together, we'll embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery.
I'm Lisa, a dedicated Creative Art Therapist with a Master’s training and registration with Anzacata. With a rich background spanning in areas of advocacy, disability support, creative development, and leadership, I bring a wealth of experience to my practice. My passion lies in fostering connections and facilitating growth across all ages and needs. I especially love connecting with fellow neurodivergent kin. In my practice, I embrace non-judgmental acceptance and inclusion, emphasising safety, trauma informed, person-centred, and neuro-affirming principles. Together, we'll embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery.
![Photo of Amber Archbold, ACA-L2, Counsellor](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/5ea33cbc-d118-4e63-8051-2ad67e26a3f4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Clients facing anxiety, relationship/dating hurdles, trauma, nervous system dysregulation, low mood or striving to find a deeper sense of self will find relief in our sessions. They may struggle with relationships, anxiety, and self-doubt, seeking validation and understanding of who they are beyond their limiting core beliefs. They aim to cope with anxiety, heal past traumas, improve communication, and foster healthier connections. Ultimately, they strive for security, fulfillment, and peace within themselves and their relationships.
Clients facing anxiety, relationship/dating hurdles, trauma, nervous system dysregulation, low mood or striving to find a deeper sense of self will find relief in our sessions. They may struggle with relationships, anxiety, and self-doubt, seeking validation and understanding of who they are beyond their limiting core beliefs. They aim to cope with anxiety, heal past traumas, improve communication, and foster healthier connections. Ultimately, they strive for security, fulfillment, and peace within themselves and their relationships.
![Photo of Taash Balakas, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/29d517cb-4123-4f3f-9aaa-5f7899e24375/2/320x400.jpeg)
Taash Balakas
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VIC 3121 (Online Only)
I know that for some, visiting a psychologist can be daunting - I am a strong believer in breaking down the traditional barriers of psychology. So often we are faced with images of serious and intimidating looking people, in even more intimidating looking suits and told that they’re going to be the professional looking after our mental health. It is my mission, to offer therapy in an approachable, personable and jargon-free environment - one where you feel safe, cared for and understood.
I know that for some, visiting a psychologist can be daunting - I am a strong believer in breaking down the traditional barriers of psychology. So often we are faced with images of serious and intimidating looking people, in even more intimidating looking suits and told that they’re going to be the professional looking after our mental health. It is my mission, to offer therapy in an approachable, personable and jargon-free environment - one where you feel safe, cared for and understood.
![Photo of Lynn Ng, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/105b6ebc-d4f9-44aa-96b6-9b3753a31efe/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialise working with neurodivergent individuals and dual/multiple diagnoses. I complete ASD, ADHD, learning and behavioural assessments. I also provide support for parents to understand their children's diagnoses and support their children. I have an extensive experience working with children, adolescents and young adults
I specialise working with neurodivergent individuals and dual/multiple diagnoses. I complete ASD, ADHD, learning and behavioural assessments. I also provide support for parents to understand their children's diagnoses and support their children. I have an extensive experience working with children, adolescents and young adults
![Photo of Iris Kucuk, MPsych, MAPS, Psychologist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/d108d44e-3282-483a-9a11-72b43ac4d745/1/320x400.jpeg)
Iris is a clinical psychologist who is passionate about helping clients improve their psychological health and wellbeing. Iris is experienced in working with people from all walks of life, in a range of settings including public hospitals, universities, not for profit organisations and private practice. She can provide treatment for a broad range of presenting issues, and has a special interest in anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, disordered eating and chronic pain. Iris also works with clients struggling to adjust to stressful life changes, pre and post-natal mental health issues and identity issues.
Iris is a clinical psychologist who is passionate about helping clients improve their psychological health and wellbeing. Iris is experienced in working with people from all walks of life, in a range of settings including public hospitals, universities, not for profit organisations and private practice. She can provide treatment for a broad range of presenting issues, and has a special interest in anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, disordered eating and chronic pain. Iris also works with clients struggling to adjust to stressful life changes, pre and post-natal mental health issues and identity issues.
![Photo of Dina H Shurti - Dina Shurti @ SALAM Holistic Psychology , MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/0b7c03f7-d7e0-4096-8217-7550a228e326/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dina Shurti @ SALAM Holistic Psychology
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Noble Park, VIC 3174 (Online Only)
At Salam Holistic Psychology we take into account the whole person - mind, body, soul, social context and the interconnectedness of these aspects. In addition to addressing cognitive and emotional aspects, we also acknowledge and respect the spiritual dimension of an individuals life, which can encompass values, beliefs, purpose, and meaning. Our approach to therapy is anti-racist and decolonial, ethical, respectful and trauma informed. As the principal psychologist at Salam, I have extensive therapeutic experience accross a variety of settings and concerns including family violence, suicide prevention, trauma and identity concens.
At Salam Holistic Psychology we take into account the whole person - mind, body, soul, social context and the interconnectedness of these aspects. In addition to addressing cognitive and emotional aspects, we also acknowledge and respect the spiritual dimension of an individuals life, which can encompass values, beliefs, purpose, and meaning. Our approach to therapy is anti-racist and decolonial, ethical, respectful and trauma informed. As the principal psychologist at Salam, I have extensive therapeutic experience accross a variety of settings and concerns including family violence, suicide prevention, trauma and identity concens.
![Photo of Dr. Nikolaos Kazantzis, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/b256e7d9-fc8e-48f2-abf4-7eefa9edbb09/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kazantzis is a psychologist and board-approved supervisor registered with AHPRA under the clinical scope of practice. He has over 20 years of experience in psychology consulting within public health (inpatient, outpatient, community mental health, specialist cognitive behavior therapy clinics) and primary care contexts. Dr. Kazantzis is also a Beck Institute CBT Certified Clinician (BICBT-CC).
Dr. Kazantzis is a psychologist and board-approved supervisor registered with AHPRA under the clinical scope of practice. He has over 20 years of experience in psychology consulting within public health (inpatient, outpatient, community mental health, specialist cognitive behavior therapy clinics) and primary care contexts. Dr. Kazantzis is also a Beck Institute CBT Certified Clinician (BICBT-CC).
![Photo of Louise Du Chesne, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/15086564-6c46-4608-9e25-0ae51d14a7bf/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Louise Du Chesne is an experienced clinical psychologist. She has worked extensively with people recovering from traumatic and painful events including family violence, sexual assault and childhood abuse and neglect. She works with couples and individuals around their intimate personal relationships as well as with individuals who experience addiction, anxiety and depression. She also had experience in supporting people with health challenges such as cancer. Louise has a long history of working with members of LGBTIQ++ community. She welcomes referrals for assistance regarding LGBTIQ++ adults, couples and adolescents.
Dr Louise Du Chesne is an experienced clinical psychologist. She has worked extensively with people recovering from traumatic and painful events including family violence, sexual assault and childhood abuse and neglect. She works with couples and individuals around their intimate personal relationships as well as with individuals who experience addiction, anxiety and depression. She also had experience in supporting people with health challenges such as cancer. Louise has a long history of working with members of LGBTIQ++ community. She welcomes referrals for assistance regarding LGBTIQ++ adults, couples and adolescents.
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![Photo of Niki Yuen Fen Bruysters, MPsych, MAPS, Psychologist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/5c2f77c7-6426-40e6-b29c-bdef7c160338/1/320x400.png)
I work as a clinical psychologist and practice upon a foundation of empathy and authenticity. To embrace vulnerability is terrifying, so I prioritise creating a supportive safe space with my clients to move towards recovery goals. I am passionate about shifting the ‘hush-hush’ discourse around vulnerabilities with mental health, and empowering individuals to embrace the human nature to experience difficulties.
I work as a clinical psychologist and practice upon a foundation of empathy and authenticity. To embrace vulnerability is terrifying, so I prioritise creating a supportive safe space with my clients to move towards recovery goals. I am passionate about shifting the ‘hush-hush’ discourse around vulnerabilities with mental health, and empowering individuals to embrace the human nature to experience difficulties.
![Photo of Saga Arthursson, PhD, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/d6c22638-6e68-4a6e-86f6-155f607aa56f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Saga is a registered psychologist in Melbourne with a special interest in child development, neurodevelopmental disabilities and psychiatric disorders. Saga provides individual therapy to children and their parents using a range of evidence based psychological techniques and interventions. She uses a holistic, non-judgemental and playful approach to create a nurturin
Dr. Saga is a registered psychologist in Melbourne with a special interest in child development, neurodevelopmental disabilities and psychiatric disorders. Saga provides individual therapy to children and their parents using a range of evidence based psychological techniques and interventions. She uses a holistic, non-judgemental and playful approach to create a nurturin
![Photo of Natalie Anker Cohen, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/dcb36ffa-c794-4bb5-afc1-bc2420dae707/1/320x400.jpeg)
At Anchored Psychology we take a keen interest in connecting with clients (16 years and over) and undertaking a collaborative process of discovery towards improved wellbeing. We aim to conduct our interactions and sessions with kindness and compassion, respect, honesty and complete transparency, within a professional, safe and confidential service. We are passionate about helping individuals to develop more awareness and competence, thereby empowering them with more effective responses to life challenges.
At Anchored Psychology we take a keen interest in connecting with clients (16 years and over) and undertaking a collaborative process of discovery towards improved wellbeing. We aim to conduct our interactions and sessions with kindness and compassion, respect, honesty and complete transparency, within a professional, safe and confidential service. We are passionate about helping individuals to develop more awareness and competence, thereby empowering them with more effective responses to life challenges.
![Photo of Athena Phythian, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/6e67d049-7d4a-49a7-ae93-d9c7ed46ae67/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychologist working at my clinic located in Melbourne, Australia. I also work with clients across Australia via telehealth. I can offer you a safe and welcoming environment in which to talk about your thoughts and feelings. I am experienced in treating depression, anxiety/panic, loneliness, low self-esteem, relationship issues, PTSD/trauma, OCD, self-harm and suicidal behaviours. I also work with clients with Autism and ADHD.
I am a psychologist working at my clinic located in Melbourne, Australia. I also work with clients across Australia via telehealth. I can offer you a safe and welcoming environment in which to talk about your thoughts and feelings. I am experienced in treating depression, anxiety/panic, loneliness, low self-esteem, relationship issues, PTSD/trauma, OCD, self-harm and suicidal behaviours. I also work with clients with Autism and ADHD.
![Photo of Amelia Batrouney, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/87646fdf-9612-4425-97cb-7464f46bd191/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and Narrative Therapist with over 11 years’ experience working in mental health and community settings, having specialised in trauma-informed practice and perinatal mental health. I am a compassionate and warm clinician. I support individuals around a range of issues, including life stress and transition, trauma, grief and loss, anxiety and depression. I provide a respectful, non-judgemental and collaborative therapeutic space for those I work with to explore and unpack their experiences, connect to their hopes and enhance a greater sense of safety and presence.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and Narrative Therapist with over 11 years’ experience working in mental health and community settings, having specialised in trauma-informed practice and perinatal mental health. I am a compassionate and warm clinician. I support individuals around a range of issues, including life stress and transition, trauma, grief and loss, anxiety and depression. I provide a respectful, non-judgemental and collaborative therapeutic space for those I work with to explore and unpack their experiences, connect to their hopes and enhance a greater sense of safety and presence.
![Photo of Melissa Tinney - Casuarina Counselling Therapy, MSc, PACFA, Counsellor](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/fbecb930-82c9-4764-a577-e5b55d2a5edc/2/320x400.jpeg)
If you are someone who is struggling with situations in your life including self esteem issues, addiction, neurodivergence including ADHD, feeling unempowered and losing your sense of self or purpose in life, or relationship issues, Casuarina Counselling Therapy can help. Relationship issues and couples counselling are also available and I believe every couple can benefit from learning ways to communicate so that they both feel heard, valued, acknowledged and loved for who they are. "Anything that is not love is a misunderstanding"
If you are someone who is struggling with situations in your life including self esteem issues, addiction, neurodivergence including ADHD, feeling unempowered and losing your sense of self or purpose in life, or relationship issues, Casuarina Counselling Therapy can help. Relationship issues and couples counselling are also available and I believe every couple can benefit from learning ways to communicate so that they both feel heard, valued, acknowledged and loved for who they are. "Anything that is not love is a misunderstanding"
![Photo of Supriya Khanijou, MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/892a4848-2081-4225-890e-1060163df16c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Supriya Khanijou
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Footscray, VIC 3011 (Online Only)
After many years of studying and practicing a wide range of holistic approaches for the body, mind and spirit, I've found the answer to true wellbeing comes from strengthening the relationship to ourselves on all levels; physical, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. The best approach is to support ourselves with practical and complementary practices that can be incorporated into our lives in the most beneficial way. I work with clients to find the best suited practices for their individual lifestyle.
After many years of studying and practicing a wide range of holistic approaches for the body, mind and spirit, I've found the answer to true wellbeing comes from strengthening the relationship to ourselves on all levels; physical, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. The best approach is to support ourselves with practical and complementary practices that can be incorporated into our lives in the most beneficial way. I work with clients to find the best suited practices for their individual lifestyle.
![Photo of Lucy Walton, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/37124661-08d2-44ba-965d-2b32503a8d48/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lucy Walton
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Fitzroy North, VIC 3068 (Online Only)
Typically, my clients have been to therapy many times before, but don't quite get to the bottom of their problems. They have tried the traditional methods of therapy that promote coping, but feel disheartened when they inevitably fall back into their old habits. Often they appear fine on the outside, but every day is a struggle. There is a big feeling of stuckness, or that 'something isn't right'. It's often hard to say exactly what is wrong. The words 'anxiety' and 'depression' don't seem to properly explain things. There may be a history of bad relationships, or struggling to accept love. Despite all this, they haven't given up.
Typically, my clients have been to therapy many times before, but don't quite get to the bottom of their problems. They have tried the traditional methods of therapy that promote coping, but feel disheartened when they inevitably fall back into their old habits. Often they appear fine on the outside, but every day is a struggle. There is a big feeling of stuckness, or that 'something isn't right'. It's often hard to say exactly what is wrong. The words 'anxiety' and 'depression' don't seem to properly explain things. There may be a history of bad relationships, or struggling to accept love. Despite all this, they haven't given up.
![Photo of Kathryn Williamson, PsyBA - Health Psych., Psychologist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/31e59942-081e-420a-a3be-fb159323e9d3/1/320x400.png)
Kathryn has 30 years of experience working as a Health Psychologist in both the private and public sector. Kathryn is a Board approved supervisor and has a background in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, anger and trauma. She has a focus and an interest in supporting people with chronic health conditions including chronic pain and chronic fatigue syndrome. Kathryn works with survivors of sexual abuse and sexual assault and has a love of working with relationship issues and personal development.
Kathryn has 30 years of experience working as a Health Psychologist in both the private and public sector. Kathryn is a Board approved supervisor and has a background in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, anger and trauma. She has a focus and an interest in supporting people with chronic health conditions including chronic pain and chronic fatigue syndrome. Kathryn works with survivors of sexual abuse and sexual assault and has a love of working with relationship issues and personal development.
See more therapy options for Victoria
How does your Counsellor compare?
Average cost per session
$180
Counsellors in Victoria who prioritize treating:
87% | Anxiety |
79% | Depression |
74% | Stress |
72% | Self Esteem |
70% | Relationship Issues |
65% | Trauma and PTSD |
59% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
67% | Medicare Rebates |
47% | Bupa |
46% | NDIS |
How Counsellors in Victoria see their clients
81% | In Person and Online | |
19% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
79% | Female | |
20% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Victoria?
Search for nearby psychologists or counsellors by inputting your city, suburb, postcode, or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or postcode into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
Counsellors and Psychotherapists listed in the directory are members of the main professional associations, mainly the Australian Counselling Association and the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia. Psychologists must be registered in the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). Most Social Workers listed in the directory are members of the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW).
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given that professional memberships are not a statutory requirement for social workers, psychotherapists and counsellors in Australia, certain qualified professionals or organisations may choose not to maintain such memberships despite possessing the necessary qualifications. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given that professional memberships are not a statutory requirement for social workers, psychotherapists and counsellors in Australia, certain qualified professionals or organisations may choose not to maintain such memberships despite possessing the necessary qualifications. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counsellor?
Counsellors, psychotherapists and psychologists can all provide counselling or talking therapy and have credentials and experience that enable them to do so in Australia.
Psychologists have earned a 4 year undergraduate degree in psychology and have completed a postgraduate internship or postgraduate degree. Psychotherapists generally have an undergraduate degree in a health related field in addition to 3-4 years of specialist training in psychotherapy and a period of personal psychotherapy. In order to belong to a professional organisation such as the ACA or PACFA, counsellors and psychotherapists are required to have completed a certain level of AQF qualifications and/ or an approved training course as well as clinical and supervision hours. Social Workers registered with the AASW are required to have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Social Work from an accredited institution.
Psychologists have earned a 4 year undergraduate degree in psychology and have completed a postgraduate internship or postgraduate degree. Psychotherapists generally have an undergraduate degree in a health related field in addition to 3-4 years of specialist training in psychotherapy and a period of personal psychotherapy. In order to belong to a professional organisation such as the ACA or PACFA, counsellors and psychotherapists are required to have completed a certain level of AQF qualifications and/ or an approved training course as well as clinical and supervision hours. Social Workers registered with the AASW are required to have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Social Work from an accredited institution.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, the cost of a therapy session in Australia could be between $100 and $250. If you have private insurance, your plan may cover some if not all of your sessions. You should contact your insurance provider to determine if they provide coverage for therapy sessions and to determine what, if any, requirements they might have in order for your sessions to be covered, such as a referral from your GP or medical specialist.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. The Better Access Scheme is a government program offering Medicare rebates for mental health care. To access the program you will need to be assessed and diagnosed by your GP and get a Mental Health Plan. This will allow you to receive up to 10 individual sessions and 10 group sessions a year with practitioners who accept bulk billing, with no out of pocket costs for you.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. The Better Access Scheme is a government program offering Medicare rebates for mental health care. To access the program you will need to be assessed and diagnosed by your GP and get a Mental Health Plan. This will allow you to receive up to 10 individual sessions and 10 group sessions a year with practitioners who accept bulk billing, with no out of pocket costs for you.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your postcode.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Therapists who are part of a professional organisation such as the ACA, PACFA, or the APS are bound by an ethical framework that requires them to uphold a confidentiality agreement. Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship and only under specific circumstances, such as when there is the potential or known harm to the client or others or when a minor is in danger, will a therapist be obligated to break the agreement. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed during the initial consultation.