What is a Counsellor / Psychotherapist?
The terms ‘Counsellor’ and ‘Psychotherapist’ aren’t regulated in Australia which means they can be used widely in the community by people with varying degrees of training, skills and professional development. At Thea Baker Wellbeing we take our professional standing as allied health professionals very seriously and are at least Master’s degree trained and are registered with either PACFA (Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia) or ACA (Australian Counselling Association). We all bring a wealth of knowledge and experience and use a range of interventions to support people experiencing mental ill-health.
Will I need a referral?
You do not need a referral to attend Thea Baker Wellbeing for counselling. You can Contact Us directly to schedule an appointment. As Counsellors and Psychotherapists, we aren’t permitted to take referrals under the Better Access to Mental Health (mental health care plans) scheme. This is something that is being reviewed at a Federal Government level but is sadly outside of our control.
What will happen my first session:
You don’t need to worry about doing anything in preparation for your first session – just come ready to explore whatever has been challenging you and your therapist will guide you through the process.
We will explore what has led you to seek counselling and what changes you’re hoping to achieve in your life. We will explore your current concerns and past experiences, to enable us to get to know you and determine what counselling approach might be most helpful for you. We may also ask you to complete one or more questionnaires to help us better understand your issues. You have control over what information you choose to share, and the pace at which you share it. Our priority is creating an environment in which you feel safe and empowered.
How long is each session?
The initial intake session lasts 90 minutes to give us plenty of time to get to know you and explore all the things that you’d like to share with us. Ongoing sessions are 60 minutes in duration unless otherwise agreed with your therapist.
How much do sessions cost?
Our fees vary depending on the service you are seeking and which therapist in our team that you see. For specific information about our fees, please see our Fees page.
How many sessions will I need to attend?
This will depend on the nature and complexity of your circumstances. You will usually start to notice positive changes after one or two sessions. Some people only require short-term counselling (6-10 sessions) in order to achieve sustainable change in their lives. For people with more complex, long-standing issues, longer-term psychotherapy may be required. It is up to you. We will work together to achieve your goals and regularly review how things are going, so that you get the most benefit out of counselling. Sessions usually occur on a weekly or fortnightly basis to begin with, and then taper out over time.
You do not need a referral to attend Thea Baker Wellbeing for counselling. You can contact us directly to schedule an appointment. As Counsellors and Psychotherapists, we aren’t permitted to take referrals under the Better Access to Mental Health (mental health care plans) scheme.
Some of our therapists can provide private health insurance rebates – please check with your insurance provider for details about the level of cover you have.
All information discussed in counselling sessions is confidential, except in the following circumstances:
There is risk to your safety, or the safety of another person
Our counselling notes are subpoenaed by a Court
You have provided us with permission to speak to another person or organisation about your circumstances
Thea Baker Wellbeing is based in Camberwell, conveniently located near to the train station. We also provide online and telephone counselling services so that you can access our services from the convenience of your own home.
We recognise that it can be difficult to schedule counselling appointments around work, study and family commitments. We offer appointments between Monday and Saturday during business hours and after hours. You are welcome to Contact Us if you would like to discuss our availability or schedule an appointment.
Whilst we aren’t registered with the NDIS, if you have self-managed or plan-managed funding through the NDIS you can utilise applicable services at Thea Baker Wellbeing.
Ask us a Question
Feel free to ask any physical therapy related questions over the phone, or get send your question via this form below. Your message will be dispatched directly to our staff who will answer as soon as they can.