What is counselling?

Counselling is ‘talk therapy,’ where a relationship is built between the counsellor and the therapist. This is a relationship of trust and confidentiality. The purpose of counselling is to help you process difficulties, stressful events or feelings. Your counsellor will work with you to find your strengths, values and beliefs, guiding you to facilitate positive change. Counselling not only works for you when you are experiencing problems but also helps to elevate you to a more holistic happiness that brings joy to your daily life.

What is the difference between a counsellor and a psychiatrist?

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who look at complex mental health disorders and prescribe medication, they can do some counselling work within funded models using methods such as CBT to help people to manage their mental health they are licensed to make a diagnosis.

Counsellors can’t prescribe medication and work with clients using one or more theoretical models. Counsellors help with practical issues such as processing loss, understanding one’s self, managing relationships or building better communication skills. There are many different techniques a counsellor can use such as Gestalt, Narrative Therapy or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.

Counsellors and psychiatrists often work together in a collaborative manner to help clients.

What factors make therapy successful?

Therapy is a collaborative process between you and a trained therapist, designed to help you address emotional challenges and achieve personal growth. In therapy, you can expect a safe, confidential space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. Through active listening and empathy, the therapist seeks to understand your unique experiences.

To make the most of therapy, be open and honest about your concerns and goals. Set realistic expectations and trust the therapeutic process. Be patient with yourself, as progress may take time. Take an active role, engage in self-reflection, and apply the insights gained outside of sessions. Remember, the therapeutic relationship is essential; finding the right fit with a therapist is crucial for a successful outcome. Embrace the journey with an open mind, and you'll discover the transformative power of therapy in enhancing your emotional well-being and overall life satisfaction.

How long does a counselling session go for?

At The Counselling Avenue, our sessions go for 45 minutes. You can request for a session to be delivered online or in person.

How long is your waiting list?

Many psychologists and counsellors are completely booked out. We currently have space available to take on new clients due to extending our operating hours. However, we recommend that you book your appointment quickly.

What are your fee’s and am I entitled to a rebate?

We charge $150 for a 50-minute session. We are working with private health insurers so that clients can claim a rebate, however at this stage rebates are not available, which is why we have lowered our fees. If you are unable to afford this fee please talk to us about payment arrangements.

Do I need a referral from my GP?

No, as we are not funded by Medicare and there are no rebates so you do not need a referral from your GP. If you are unable to afford our fees please talk to us. Our aim is to be accessible to those who need help.

Where are you located?

Our counselling rooms are conveniently located on Glenferrie Road in Malvern. There is easy public transportation to get there and security. The rooms are designed with you in mind. If you can’t attend a face-to-face appointment we also offer telehealth appointments by phone and video. counselling near me. free counselling Melbourne.

Is this service online, via phone or face-to-face?

We prefer to meet you face to face to start with but if this is not possible because you live in a remote area, you are unable to access transport or have other access barriers. We offer counselling online, over the phone or via video link this is also known as telehealth.