1:1 Session
I provide a safe space for you to talk about your loss, to talk about whatever it is that's making you feel distressed, overwhelmed or worried. Mostly I will just listen, but I'lI also provide you with guidance around grief theories. When you understand why, it helps you to manage your emotions.
Together we will look at the impacts the grief is having on your life and find practical ways for you to manage. There is no timeline for grief, so these strategies will continue to help you in the days, months and years ahead.
And I'll help you to identify rituals, new traditions and other ideas on how to remember your loved one or your cope with your loss.
1 hour @ $120.00
Walk & Talk
Same as a 1:1 session, except we meet outdoors! Being out in nature, walking side by side can be very beneficial. When we are stressed, nature helps to regulate our emotions and walking releases endorphins, the 'feel-good' hormones.
We walk at your pace, pausing to sit when you need to. If you have mobility issues, we can find a place with a view. These sessions provide all the same benefits as 1:1 session, they're just in a naturally therapeutic environment.
And if the weather is not being kind, we can make alternate arrangements!
1 hour @ $120.00
Life Packing & or Admin Support
After someone you loved has gone, you might find yourself in charge of clearing out their home or room. It can be a daunting task, sorting through the everyday stuff and making decisions about sentimental items.
Or you may be finding it difficult to deal with all the paperwork that needs addressing after someone has passed away.
Both can be a highly emotional experience you might not feel ready for, particularly while still in the early stages of grief, but the pressure is on for you to act.
I can help. While you go through their things and make decisions about them, I will be there with you.
Not only will I help in a practical way, but most importantly, I will be there for you emotionally.
1 hour @ $120.00
I understand the cost of living is making things more difficult right now, so to help you in taking care of yourself, I am offering the first session at 45minutes for $90. If you choose to continue, then we can negotiate an affordable price.
**If you're a Carer of someone with a diagnosed disability and struggling to afford the cost of counselling, then you may be eligible for some assistance.**
Give me a call or visit General Counselling - EACH
Of course, before you can make a decision, you may have some questions.
If your question is not answered below, then just give me a call, I'd be happy to help
DO I NEED A REFERRAL ?
No. You can contact me directly and make an appointment at any time you feel ready.
ARE YOU REGISTERED WITH MEDICARE?
No. I am not registered with Medicare, but my fee is only a bit more than the gap fee you would pay.
SHOULD I REALLY BE SEEING A PSYCHOLOGIST?
Maybe. If you have complex issues, then accessing a psychologist via a mental health care plan from your GP might be best for you.
However.... grief is a natural reaction to a human condition and doesn't need to be 'fixed'. My counselling approach centres on you, the person, helping you to build new skills to manage the often difficult thoughts and feelings you might be having. Unlike a mental health care plan, no record of counselling appears on your health record.
If after seeing you, I feel you are experiencing the symptoms of complicated grief, then we can discuss a referral to a psychologist.
WHERE ARE SESSIONS HELD?
1:1 sessions are held in my counselling space at 180 Macleod Street, Bairnsdale
Walk & Talk sessions can be held on several walking tracks around Bairnsdale, you choose!
Packing Support is at the place where the items are located. Admin support can be either my rooms or where paperwork is stored.
HOW MANY SESSIONS WILL I NEED?
Grief is individual, so this cannot be answered. We can just start and you will know..... you may need just one or two or you made need more.
I also provide 'booster' sessions - for those times when you find you are struggling, or a significant anniversary is approaching.
WHAT IS THE WAIT TIME?
Because I keep my schedule flexible, you can generally see me within a week or two, particularly if you can be flexible around times.
WHAT ARE YOUR FEES?
1:1 session 60-minutes @ $120.00
Walk & Talk session 60-minutes @ $120.00. *You may not want to walk for the whole hour, we can find a spot to sit and chat.
Packing Support session 60-minutes @$120.00, plus travel at $0.85c per klm for locations more than 5klm from Bairnsdale CBD.
HOW DO I PAY FOR A SESSION?
If you are paying yourself, then payment is required on the day of service. EFTPOS, Credit, ApplePay, GPay are all accepted. If it is easier for you, then Bank Transfer and PayPal can be discussed.
If an agency is paying on your behalf, invoices will be emailed to them.
IS THERE A CANCELLATION POLICY?
Yes, as I need to be both mindful of my time and ensure I allow space for others to connect, my cancellation fees are as follows:
0-24 hours' notice - full fee payable, including 'no shows'.
I send text reminders 2 days prior, allowing you the opportunity to reschedule if needed.
DO YOU OFFER ONLINE COUNSELLING?
Being a resident of East Gippsland, I would love to help others in East Gippsland and further afield. So while I prefer the personal connection of face-to-face sessions you may prefer online, particularly if you live remotely, and this can be arranged.
I use Microsoft Teams or Zoom platforms…. so get in touch via the form below or call me on 0438 353 229 to discuss your needs.
HOW DO I MAKE CONTACT WITH YOU?
Simple! Just leave your details below and I'll call you within 24 hours. No pressure...let's just have a chat to see if I can help you in some way.
Or if you prefer, you can call me on 0438 353 229. If I'm unable to answer, please leave a message and I will return your call as soon as I can.
READY TO BOOK A SESSION?
If you feel that you're ready to start, then you can book an Initial Consultation - a shorter 45-minute session so you can see if we are a 'good fit'. There is no obligation to continue. Like a shoe, a counsellor needs to be a good fit for you!