Who do you work with?
I work with adults, aged over 21 years. I offer counselling to individuals.
I do not work with couples. If a couple would like to work through the decision of parenthood at the same time, I will see them individually in different appointments so that one is not influenced by the other.
Please note, this is not a crisis service.
If you are in an emergency please call;
Police, Fire or Ambulance - 000
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If you need to talk to someone immediately, please call;
Lifeline - 13 11 14
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If you are experiencing domestic violence, please call;
• Domestic Violence Hotline (QLD) 1800 811 811
Counselling vs Psychotherapy - What is the difference?
Counselling and psychotherapy are two different approaches to helping people. Counselling helps clients understand their problems, resolve them and make changes in their lives; psychotherapy can be used to find out the root of a problem, rather than just addressing the surface issue.
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Though counselling can help with decision-making, by incorporating psychotherapy elements I can get deeper into your values and beliefs underlying your thoughts and emotions regarding parenthood. By exploring at a deeper level, any decision you make will be aligned with your true desires, allowing you the freedom to move forward in life and whichever path you choose.
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At JG Psychotherapy, I do not diagnose you. I am more interested in a person-centred, holistic approach, with the therapeutic relationship at the core. I use different counselling approaches, such as narrative therapy, somatic therapy, mindfulness and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in a way that works for you. I am interested in learning about who you are and your own lived experience so that you gain clarity, and feel heard, supported and understood.
How long is a therapy session?
A counselling and psychotherapy session is 50 mins.
What are your fees?
Individual Psychotherapy & counselling sessions are charged at $120.00 including GST.
Do you accept Mental Health Care Plans?
Unfortunately, psychotherapists and counsellors are not eligible for Medicare rebates, so we don’t take Mental Health Care Plans from your GP.
To take this into account, you will find that my fees are generally lower than psychologists and are comparable to the out-of-pocket expense that you will need to pay when utilising the Mental Health Care Plan rebates.
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Do you accept Private Health Rebates?
Yes. JG Psychotherapy is a provider for BUPA and Australian Regional Health Group (ARHG).
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I will provide you with a receipt with my provider number and item code so that you can claim back from your health fund.
The amount of rebate depends on your cover/policy. Please speak to your health insurance fund about cover for ‘Counselling’.
Do I need a referral to work with you?
No, a GP referral is not required for psychotherapy and counselling services. To work with me simply book an appointment online or send me an email via my contact page.
What happens in my first session?
Whether this is your first ever therapy session, or you have been to therapy before it is normal to feel a range of feelings such as nervousness, apprehension and even excitement. On arrival, you will be greeted by reception and will be asked to fill in an intake form, if not already completed online. I will then invite you into the therapy room, where we will have a relaxed conversation to explore what has brought you to therapy and ask about any concerns you may have.
The first session is an opportunity for you to tell your story. I will hold space for you to express your experiences, thoughts and feelings on where you are at and to be heard. You will not be judged, given advice or pathologised. The first session is also a time for you to ask questions and get a feel for therapy and the therapy space.
Research shows that the relationship between client and therapist is one of the most important factors in successful therapy. For this reason, the first session allows us to get to know one another so that we can decide if we are a good fit for one another. It is an opportunity for you to decide if my approach resonates and aligns with your values and individual needs.
How many sessions will I need?
Counselling and psychotherapy are most effective when it is regular and consistent. Generally sessions occur weekly or fortnightly to begin with. How many therapy sessions you need will vary depending upon your goals and what it is that you are bringing to therapy.
I recommend regular sessions for three to four months to delve into, explore and resolve the parenthood question. Some people may find that they only need a few sessions as they may have been quite sure of an answer, but wanted further exploration to be 100% certain. Together we can discuss your needs and what will work best for you.
An important part of therapy is choice. Ultimately you can decide the frequency of sessions, if you would like to take a break from therapy or end the therapeutic relationship with me at anytime.
Do you offer tele-health or telephone/online counselling?
Online sessions are done through Zoom or phone.
Is what we discuss in therapy confidential?
Yes. The information you share with me is confidential. This includes confidentiality of collection, recording, storage, dissemination and disposal of my notes and any information I collect. I am also bound by the Australian Counselling Associations Code of Ethics, which you can read here.
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Can I contact you after hours or between sessions?
I am unavailable after opening hours and JG Psychotherapy is not an emergency service and unable to provide crisis support. If you require immediate support, contact emergency services:
• Police, Fire or Ambulance - 000
• Lifeline - 13 11 14
• Blue Knot Helpline - 1300 657 380
• Kids Helpline - 1800 55 1800
• Domestic Violence Hotline (QLD) 1800 811 811
Some people wish to send updates or questions between sessions. Current or past clients may send an email, however, as I work part-time I may not be able to respond immediately.