What to Expect from Your First Counselling Session

Starting counselling can feel like a big step, and we aim to make your first session as comfortable and clear as possible.

Before Your Appointment

Once you book a session, you will receive an online intake form to complete before your appointment. Completing it in advance means you can use the full session time for your needs. You will also receive a reminder two days before your appointment. If you have any difficulties attending, please get in touch 48 hours before your designated appointment time so we can assist.

Your First Session

Your session may take place in our home office, via telephone, or online, depending on the appointment type you’ve chosen. You will be welcomed by your clinician, who will introduce themselves and outline our policies and procedures, so you know what to expect.

We understand how important it is to feel comfortable with the person you work with. During your first session, your clinician will encourage you to consider whether we are the right fit for your needs.

The session lasts approximately one hour. In this first session, your clinician will typically:

• Discuss your goals and what you hope to achieve from counselling
• Gather initial information about your challenges and history
• Explore strategies or plans that may support your needs

It is normal not to know exactly how many sessions you may require at this stage. The number of sessions depends on your presenting challenges and goals, but your clinician can provide guidance and an approximate plan.

You may also receive worksheets or resources to help you reflect on your situation and introduce strategies gradually. While people often come to counselling for a specific concern, sessions may focus on underlying patterns or factors that maintain the issue, helping you make sustainable change without feeling overwhelming.

Moving Forward

In following sessions, interventions and strategies will be used to address challenges and support you towards your goals. You are encouraged to provide feedback at each session to ensure the sessions are meeting your needs and expectations.

After Your Session

Payment is taken after each session. If you have a Mental Health Care Plan rebate, this will be processed by our office and credited to your Medicare account. If you require a receipt for private health fund claims, simply ask our administration staff.

Booking Your Next Appointments

Some clients prefer a specific day and time each week. If this is important to you, we encourage you to book future appointments in advance to secure your preferred times.

Otherwise, you can book your next session immediately after your current appointment, or simply contact our office whenever it suits you or book a session online. Our team is happy to help you find a time that works with your schedule.