Question 1

What is a psychologist and what do they do?

Accepted Answer

A psychologist helps you understand patterns in your thoughts, emotions and behaviour, and supports you to create meaningful change. Registered psychologists use evidence-based strategies to improve wellbeing, work through difficulties and build durable skills for long-term growth. Psychologists are regulated health practitioners and must uphold strict legal, ethical and professional standards — including confidentiality, practising within competence, and ensuring care is safe, respectful and grounded in informed consent.

Question 2

Why should I attend counselling?

Accepted Answer

People attend counselling for many reasons — feeling overwhelmed, stuck, stressed, low in mood or disconnected from their goals. Therapy offers space to understand what’s holding you back and develop practical strategies to help you move forward with confidence.

Question 3

Do I need a referral to see a psychologist?

Accepted Answer

You can self-refer at any time. A GP referral is only needed if you wish to claim Medicare rebates.

Question 4

Do people feel uncomfortable coming to therapy?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Feeling unsure at first is completely normal. Therapy is designed to be a safe, supportive space where you can go at your own pace.

Question 5

Is psychological counselling effective?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Psychological therapy is highly effective across many concerns. Evidence shows that therapy leads to lasting improvement, particularly when it’s collaborative and aligned with your goals. When treatment is delivered safely, ethically and in partnership with you, outcomes are often significantly enhanced.

Question 6

What if I feel worse before I feel better?

Accepted Answer

An initial rise in emotion or discomfort can occur as difficult material is explored. This is temporary, and we pace treatment together to maintain safety and stability.

Question 7

What if I disagree with something in therapy or feel uncomfortable?

Accepted Answer

You’re encouraged to raise concerns at any time. Therapy is collaborative, and your psychologist will adjust the approach to ensure you feel safe, heard and respected. Feedback — including when something feels unhelpful or not quite right — strengthens the therapeutic relationship and improves treatment. If something isn’t working for you, we want to know so we can make appropriate adjustments together.

Question 8

What does the initial session involve?

Accepted Answer

The first session is 90 minutes and provides space for a comprehensive assessment, case formulation and collaborative treatment plan. Informed consent, confidentiality and service boundaries are discussed at commencement.

Question 9

When do you provide progress reports?

Accepted Answer

Reports are provided at Medicare review points (sessions 6 and 10) or when clinically indicated. Updates occur with patient consent unless required for safety or by law.

Question 10

Who do you provide treatment for?

Accepted Answer

Therapy is provided for adults experiencing a wide range of psychological concerns. Treatment is collaborative, culturally responsive and guided by informed consent.

Day: April 24, 2026

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