FAQ
Common
Questions
Starting counselling can bring up many questions. Here are some of the things people often wonder about before beginning.
About Counselling
What is counselling?
You do not need to have everything figured out before coming to counselling. It is a space to slow down and explore what feels important. It is not about being told what to do, but about understanding your experiences in a different way.
How do I know if counselling might be helpful?
You do not need to be in crisis to come to counselling. Many people reach out during times of change, when something feels stuck, or simply because they want to understand themselves more deeply.
If you find yourself carrying difficult emotions, feeling overwhelmed, or navigating challenges in relationships, identity, or health, counselling can offer a thoughtful space to explore what is going on at your own pace.
What happens in a counselling session?
Counselling sessions are guided by you. You decide what feels important to talk about. My role is to listen without judgement, ask thoughtful questions, and gently reflect on what I hear so you can explore your experiences more deeply.
There is no fixed agenda. We move at a pace that feels right for you, allowing space for reflection, curiosity, and understanding to unfold over time.
How many sessions will I need?
There is no set number of sessions that works for everyone. Some people find a few conversations helpful, while others choose to continue over a longer period of time.
We will check in together regularly about how things are feeling and whether the work is meeting your needs. You remain in control of the pace and direction throughout.
Practical Questions
What is the difference between in-person and online sessions?
Both in-person and online counselling offer a thoughtful and confidential space. The main difference is simply how and where we meet.
In-person sessions take place in a comfortable counselling room, while online sessions happen via a secure video platform. Some people value meeting face to face, while others appreciate the ease and flexibility of connecting from home. Many people find online sessions just as meaningful, with the added convenience of not needing to travel.
How long are sessions?
The first session lasts around 60 minutes. This gives us a little extra time to talk about what brings you to counselling and begin getting to know each other.
Ongoing sessions are 50 minutes long. This gives us dedicated time to explore what feels important, while also leaving space afterwards for reflection and gentle processing.
How much do sessions cost?
The initial session (around 60 minutes) costs $170.
Ongoing counselling sessions are 50 minutes and cost $170 per session.
Sessions are available in person or online, depending on what suits you best.
Payment is made on the day of the session via bank transfer or card.
If finances are a concern, a limited number of reduced-fee places may be available. You are welcome to ask about this when getting in touch.
Can I use Medicare to pay for sessions?
Counselling sessions through The Listening Finch are not covered by Medicare, so a referral or Mental Health Care Plan is not required.
Medicare rebates are generally available for sessions with psychologists, psychiatrists, and accredited mental health social workers through a GP referral.
Some people choose private counselling because it allows greater flexibility in how often sessions take place and how long the work continues.
If you have questions about this, you are welcome to get in touch.
How often do we meet?
Many people begin with weekly sessions, as this can help build a steady rhythm and support continuity in the work.
Over time, we can adjust the pace together depending on how things are feeling. Some people choose to move to fortnightly sessions as they feel more settled.
Confidentiality and Safety
Is what I say confidential?
Yes. What you share in counselling is treated with care and kept confidential. There are a small number of situations where confidentiality may need to be broken, such as if there is a serious risk of harm to you or someone else.
If this ever became necessary, it would be approached thoughtfully and discussed with you openly wherever possible. We will also talk through confidentiality and its boundaries at the beginning of our work together, so you know what to expect.
What if I feel worse after a session?
It’s not unusual for difficult feelings to surface after a session, especially when we’ve explored something meaningful or tender has been explored. This can be a natural part of the process.
Before each session ends, we can take a moment to check in and think about what might feel supportive afterwards, including gentle ways to care for yourself between sessions.
Are online sessions secure?
Yes. Online sessions are held through a secure, encrypted video platform. Your privacy and confidentiality are taken seriously, and the technology I use follows recognised data protection standards.
If you ever have questions about how online sessions work, or how your information is protected, we can talk this through together so you feel comfortable and informed.
Getting Started
Are you currently accepting new clients?
Yes, enquiries are welcome now and sessions are currently available from 21 April 2026 onward.
How do I book a session?
You can fill out the contact form on this website, or email me directly. I will get back to you within 24 to 48 hours to arrange a brief initial phone call, free of charge, where we can talk about what brings you to counselling and answer any questions you may have.
What happens in the first session?
The first session is a chance for us to get to know each other. We will talk about what brings you to counselling, what you may be hoping for, and I will explain a little about how I work.
It is also an opportunity for you to notice how you feel in the space. The relationship between counsellor and client matters, and it is okay to take time to see whether it feels like the right fit for you.
What if we are not a good fit?
The therapeutic relationship matters, and feeling comfortable and safe is an important part of the work. If, after the initial sessions, it does not feel like the right fit, that is completely okay.
Finding the right counsellor is a personal process. I can support you in thinking about other options, or suggest referrals that may feel better suited to you.
Still Have Questions?
If you have not found the answer you are looking for, you are welcome to get in touch. There is no such thing as a silly question when it comes to seeking support.