Mary's Place of Wisdom - where you find your inner wisdom!
I'm nervous about counselling - I've never been before. What can I expect?
Counselling can be a bit frightening if you've never been before. However, I will always be guided by you and help put you at ease as we have a friendly chat and get to know each other. I may ask you a number of questions to ascertain what prompted you to seek counselling. You are also encouraged to ask questions to help you understand the process.
How long is a counselling session
Generally a counselling session would take 60 minutes. For this reason it is important for you to arrive on time so that you do not lose valuable session time. For young children a shorter time frame may be deemed more suitable and fees are set at a pro-rata rate.
How many Counselling sessions will I need?
Counselling is different for everyone. Sometimes one session may be all that is required. However, on average, a client will need between 3 and 6 counselling sessions. This may be weekly, fortnightly or monthly, depending on your situation. Sometimes further sessions may be necessary.
Is Counselling Confidential?
You need to feel safe, secure, and confident that what you talk about in therapy stays in therapy. I do keep notes of our sessions and these are treated in the strictest of confidence. However, there are legal and ethical requirements that, under the following conditions, I may need to discuss your case with other professionals:
1. It is subpoenaed by a court
2. You inform the counsellor you want to harm yourself or others.
3. I need to refer you to another professional and share your details, with your permission.
What is Holistic Counselling?
Holistic Counselling not only deals with the mind and emotional states but also the body and spiritual aspects of the whole person. Thus a Mind/Body/Spirit approach. It considers the 'issue' at hand as part of a more complex, multi-faceted system and may involve the inclusion of the Artistic Therapies of Symbolism, Sandtray, Drawing, Painting, Sound, Drama, Clay as part of our therapy session. I also use Australian Bush Flower Essences and Reiki healing.
Do I have to participate in Holistic Therapies?
No, of course not. Each client is supported within their own comfort levels. If you are happy with 'talk therapy' this is where we will work together.
Do I need a doctor's referral?
A referral is not required to make a booking.
Can I claim Medicare rebates?
As I do not accept Doctors' Mental Healthcare Plans, Medicare rebates are not available.
What happens if I'm running late, cancel or don't show up?
If you are running late for the appointment you will be charged for the whole session and unfortunately there will be no extra time given.
If you fail to cancel a scheduled appointment or cancel with less than 24-hour notice, I cannot use this time for another client. Thus, if you miss a session without cancelling or cancel within 24 hrs notice, you will be billed the total cost for the session and are required to pay for this prior to your next session.