50 minutes

That depends on the nature of the problem. A realisitc time-frame is discussed and worked out collaboratively near the beginning of treatment. The change process is unique, and so treatment length can vary.

Symptom relief tends to occur in the short-term (10 - 20 sessions), although changing long-term patterns tends to take longer (50+ sessions).

Research suggests that 50% of people show improvements in as little as 8 weekly sessions, and 75% of people are measurably improved by 26 sessions.

Confidentiality is an essential aspect of our practice. We adhere to all ethical and legal guidelines regarding confidentiality. Everything remains private and secure between you and your therapist, apart from these exceptions:

- If there is risk of serious harm to yourself or others

- If notes are subpoenaed by a court

- If there are legal concerns regarding child or elder abuse

First sessions are typically what we call a ‘data gathering’ session. Your therapist will take the time to begin to understand the nature of the problem, or the reason, that you’ve come to see them for. They will also ask some general questions about who you are, who you’ve been, and where you’d like to go.

It is also an opportunity for you to ask any questions that you might have, and to get a feel for whether it feels like a good ‘fit’.

We have multiple therapists working in our practice, and you are most welcome to request a particular therapist. We will do our best to accomodate depending on current availabilities.

There are many differences and similarities between all three of these titles. It is important, however, to understand that the quality of the person is the most important factor, not the title. Research bears this out repeatedly.

Psychiatry tends to focus on diagnosing and treating more complex mental illnesses. They make formal diagnoses and proscribe medication.

Psychology is the science of the mind, and much of the findings of psychology come through research and scientific study. Psychologists soften specialise in clninical testing and assessment. In Australia, psychologist typically use cognitive based interventions such as CBT and tend to focus on mental health skills, as well as how to brain works and how that informs behaviour.

While psychology developed out of research, psychotherapy developed out of working with people and their problems. Generally, psychotherapists are less concerned with diagnosing and more concerned with the complexity and wholeness of the client. They generally take a developmental perspective, as well as philosophical. As a practice, it has roots in the treatment of trauma.

We ask for at least 24 hours notice to re-schedule an appointment. Late cancellations and no-shows may incur a full fee, but we will use our common sense and decency to judge this on a case by case basis.

No, we don't offer Medicare rebates through a Mental Health Care Plan. We know that's often assumed to be the first step - see your GP, get a plan, wait for a referral, then wait again for an appointment. The advantage of coming straight to us is that you can skip that whole process. No GP visit required, no waiting on a callback, and you're not limited to a set number of sessions. You can book in and get started right away.