FAQs

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Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

about our fees

What are your fees?

The standard fee for our counsellors ranges from $90-$200 per hour session. Each counsellor has their fee listed on their profile page.

The standard fee for our psychologists and social workers is around $185 per hour session.

Do you offer discounts or concessions if I am in financial difficulty?

Yes, we do. While seeking help is a good investment towards your psychological and mental health, we understand that cost can be a factor in getting the help that you need.

If you are experiencing genuine financial difficulty, please ring our intake counsellor and we can discuss a solution that may work for you.

We occasionally take in a student intern as part our team. Our student intern offers counselling free of charge.

No. However, we do offer free counselling with our intern counsellors. In addition, if you hold a concession or health care card, some of our psychologists and social workers may offer very generous concessions. That way you only pay a minimal fee each session.

Can I claim a rebate under Medicare?

If you have a condition that your GP regards as a mental health issue, you may be eligible for the Mental Health Scheme offered under Medicare. If you are issued with a Mental Health Care Plan by your GP, it will entitle you to a rebate for up to 10 sessions with one of our psychologists or mental health social workers. You will only need to pay the gap between the rebate and the fee.

If you see a Registered Counsellor, you will not be eligible for a Medicare rebate. However, other concessions and rebates may be available so that there is little cost difference between a psychologist and a counsellor.

If you have an eligible Mental Health Plan, please mention this to our intake counsellor during the booking process.

Can I claim under my private health fund?

There is an increasing number of private health funds that recognise psychological and counselling services as part of their extras cover. Check with your private heath fund if you are eligible under your extras cover. The amount you can claim back from the fee depends on your cover.

If you have an eligible private health cover, please mention this to our intake counsellor during the booking process.

about our psychologists & counsellors

How well-qualified are your counsellors and psychologists?

Bridges Counselling is a dedicated team of psychologists and registered counsellors, with a passion to help people in difficult life circumstances. We will do everything possible to match your needs with one of our team of 12 counselling professionals.

All of our counsellors and psychologists are highly-qualified and have Masters degrees or the equivalent in long-term experience.

Our counsellors are registered at Registered and Clinical levels and are a part of the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA), and the Australian Register of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (ARCAP).

Our psychologists are registered with the Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency (AHPRA).

Should I see a psychologist or a registered counsellor?

Our psychologists and mental health accredited social worker (Don Coles) work routinely with anxiety, depression, children and adolescents. Our registered counsellors work routinely with couples counselling, and individuals with complex, long-standing issues.

We understand the importance of finding the best fit for you. When you ring, our priority is to understand what your issues and goals are. We then recommend the best options of counsellors or psychologists based on their professional training and experience, availability and cost so you can make an informed decision.

about our counselling sessions

How many sessions will I need?

It depends. The average would be about 6 fortnightly sessions, but the frequency and duration of counselling will vary between individuals as the process of self-awareness, problem-solving, and change often takes different people different lengths of time to achieve.

Some may find resolution within a couple of sessions, while others may require a more extended period of time depending on personal circumstances and what changes they desire to work towards.

How can I prepare myself for counselling?

Be as relaxed as possible. Arrive early for the first session as we have a nice waiting room and cafe nearby. No other preparation is required.

It is normal to have some anxiety. We do respect your courage to venture into counselling and will endeavour to make the counselling experience as safe as possible for you.

What should I expect in the first session?

A first session can be daunting. We understand that. Our psychologists, counsellors and social workers are highly trained to provide a safe place emotionally for you. Psychological counselling proceeds at a pace and depth that is best for you. There will be clear processes and boundaries of confidentiality. We will explain everything that happens and seek your consent for all steps in your work. We will work with you to set an agreed direction and goals. We will make appropriate referrals if that is in your best interests.

In summary, we seek to be sensitive and alert to what will be most healing and beneficial for you.

Are the appointments confidential?

All our counselling sessions are confidential.

Please note: Ethical and legal state guidelines require disclosure if there is a potential for harm either to yourself or another person or if a case file is subpoenaed by a court of law.

Please see our Privacy and Confidentiality Policy.

Do you have further questions?

We are willing to help. Just ask.

(02) 9683 1444

Online booking available soon