Frequently Asked Questions
What happens at the first appointment?
The first session is all about getting to know you. Rather than diving straight into solutions, I take time to really understand what's brought you to therapy, what's been going on, and what you're hoping to get out of our work together.
I'll be listening carefully — not just to the challenges you describe, but to the broader context of your life and the factors that may be contributing to how you're feeling. By the end of the first session we'll also have touched on your goals, so we have a shared sense of direction going forward.
How long do sessions last?
Sessions are generally 50 minutes. The first session may run a little longer as I'm building a thorough picture of what you've come to therapy for — so it's worth allowing some extra time on that first day.
Can I get a Medicare rebate?
Yes, you may be eligible. To access a Medicare rebate you'll need to visit your GP and request a Mental Health Care Plan. If eligible, you can claim a rebate on up to 10 sessions per calendar year. Your GP can advise you on eligibility, and you're welcome to get in touch if you have questions about how this works.
How many sessions will I need?
This really depends on what you're hoping to work through. As a general guide, the longer something has been present in your life, the more time we may need to work through it meaningfully. That said, many people notice a shift relatively early in the process.
We'll regularly review how things are going together so you always have a sense of where we're at and what's ahead.
I’ve never seen a psychologist before - what should I expect?
First of all — the fact that you're asking this question means you're already doing something brave. Reaching out for support isn't always easy, especially when you're used to managing everything yourself.
The first session is a conversation, not an interrogation. I'll be curious about you — your life, your history, what's brought you here, and what you're hoping for. You won't be put on the spot or expected to have everything figured out. Many people arrive not entirely sure what they want to say, and that's completely okay. By the end of our first session we'll also have touched on your goals so we have a shared sense of direction going forward.
From there, we'll develop a treatment plan together that reflects what you want to get out of therapy. Sessions are a mixture of conversation and practical tools — and most likely there'll be some between-session activities to help you practise new skills and embed the progress we're making together. Therapy isn't just something that happens in the room — it's something you carry into your everyday life.
Most people find that even after the first session, something shifts. Not because everything is solved, but because being genuinely heard and understood is itself powerful.
Still have questions? I'd love to hear from you before you book — just reach out using the contact form.
Who do I help?
II work with adults aged 18 and over.
Please note that I don't currently work with children or adolescents.
What's the difference between a psychologist and a clinical psychologist?
Great question — and honestly, it can feel like alphabet soup out there. Life coach, counsellor, psychotherapist, psychologist, clinical psychologist... where do you even start?
Here's a simple way to think about it: the differences in titles largely come down to differences in education and training.
Most psychologists have completed four years of university study plus an additional one to two years of supervised practical experience. Clinical psychologists have gone further — completing four years of undergraduate training, followed by at least two years of postgraduate study at Masters or Doctorate level, and then an additional two years of supervised experience. Clinical psychology training has a particular emphasis on the assessment and treatment of more complex psychological presentations.
Whoever you choose to work with, it's always worth asking about their training background, their professional memberships, and the therapeutic approaches they use. As for me — I'm a registered member of the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and the Australian Clinical Psychology Association (ACPA), and I'm always happy to answer any questions you have about my background before we begin.
What's the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist?
This one comes up a lot — and it's a really useful distinction to understand.
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who has completed a medical degree and then gone on to specialise in mental health. Because of their medical training, psychiatrists can prescribe medication and are particularly well placed to work with the biological aspects of mental health conditions.
A psychologist hasn't completed a medical degree and therefore cannot prescribe medication. Instead, psychological treatment works through a different but equally powerful pathway — using evidence-based approaches like talking therapy, building insight and self-awareness, working with emotions, and creating meaningful behavioural change.
For many people, the most effective approach involves both — a psychiatrist managing medication alongside a psychologist providing therapeutic support. If that feels relevant to your situation, your GP is a great first point of contact.
Can you prescribe medication for me?
No — as a psychologist rather than a medical doctor, I'm not able to prescribe medication. If you're curious about whether medication might be helpful as part of your treatment, your GP is the best first port of call. They can advise you directly or refer you to a psychiatrist for a more thorough assessment.
Medication and psychology can work really well together — it's not an either/or decision, and I'm always happy to discuss what might be the right fit for you.
Do you offer online sessions and are they secure?
Yes — I offer both face-to-face and online sessions, and many of my clients find online therapy just as effective and far more convenient.
I use an integrated telehealth system that is end-to-end encrypted and fully compliant for use in healthcare settings. If you choose an online session, I'll email you a secure link ahead of your appointment — no software download required, just click and connect.
Online sessions are eligible for the full Medicare rebate, making them just as accessible as in-person appointments.
What’s the difference between seeing a clinical psychologist and working with a coach?
Another great question — and one that's worth understanding so you can make the right choice for where you are right now.
Psychology and coaching can look similar on the surface — both involve one-on-one conversations, both support personal growth, and both can create meaningful change. But there are some important differences.
Clinical psychology is a regulated health profession. It involves the assessment and treatment of psychological conditions — anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health challenges — using evidence-based therapeutic approaches. As a registered clinical psychologist, I'm accountable to AHPRA and bound by professional and ethical standards. Medicare rebates are available through a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP.
Coaching is generally more future-focused — it tends to work well when someone is psychologically well and wants support with goals, direction, performance, or personal development. Coaching is not a regulated profession in Australia, which means the quality and training of coaches can vary enormously.
As a general guide: if you're experiencing significant distress, anxiety, depression, trauma, or feel like something is genuinely getting in the way of your functioning — psychology is likely the right fit. If you're in a reasonably good place but want support with growth, clarity, or direction — coaching may be what you're looking for.
Not sure which one is right for you? Feel free to reach out — I'm happy to have an honest conversation about what would serve you best.