FAQs
What is walk and talk therapy?
Walk and talk therapy is a relaxed and informal approach to the counselling relationship. We conduct our sessions in parks, on beaches or under a shady tree – we don’t have to walk, but we are usually always outside.
It’s good for your mind, heart and body! However please be aware it is NOT fitness orientated, we do not power walk - its just a gentle stroll.
I choose venues that are not highly populated, and that give the opportunity to sit when the need arises.
We do not walk in the first few sessions. These are always seated.
What's your background?
I have a Diploma of Counselling, a Diploma of Community Services, along with a Certificate of Ecotherapy. I have also previously worked in the mental health field as a community rehabilitation support worker, as a volunteer for Lifeline (as a telephone crisis supporter) and as a mentor for a local womens organisation supporting women who are rebuilding their lives after leaving domestic violence. I have participated in many relevant training opportunities, and continue to do so, as they arise.
I am also a member of the Australian Counselling Association.
Do you offer online sessions?
Video sessions are available to anyone, world wide (excluding US/Canada).
To participate, you need a device with camera, mic and speaker, and a quiet, private space, along with a stable internet connection. The session proceeds much the same as an in person one.
Session times are offered in my time zone – Australian Eastern Standard Time, (NSW).
What is your therapeutic approach?
I operate, loosely, from a mix of Person Centred and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I believe that change and healing happen in an environment that is judgement free and where we feel supported and accepted for who we are, where we are in this moment. This is the space I aim to provide for you.
The most important thing to know about my work is that movement towards transformation and change is central to the process. I work with you to develop greater self-awareness and new techniques to manage your difficult thoughts and feelings. In a supported way, we confront your self-sabotaging behaviours, explore where the issues likely began, and unpack all of it, discard what is no longer serving you, so that there is then room to build a life that is more aligned with your goals, values and heartfelt desires. I show you that there is hope for a better future, regardless of where you’ve come from.
How many sessions?
The amount of sessions is up to you. I work with women committed to deepening their understanding of themselves, and this can take some time. This work is definitely not quick fix therapy. There are some people I've worked with for 3 years or more, and others who have found 6-12 months of weekly or fortnightly sessions to be sufficient for that period in their life. Some women dip in and out of therapy as life ebbs and flows. This is about you and what you need. You are never coerced into attending or continuing therapy.
Do you only work with older women?
I work with all women 18+. I enjoy working with women across the lifespan, however I do tend to do a lot of work with women in the 20-25 and the 40-65+ age groups.
Do you work with someone's mental health diagnosis?
I work with you, not your diagnosis. If you are able to look honestly at your life and circumstances and are willing to jump in the deep end and work your way back to the shallows, then we can work together, regardless of your diagnosis. In some circumstances, where it’s clear our work is not of benefit to you, and you would be better served seeing someone else, I would discuss this with you, and refer you to someone more suited to you. I do not 'treat' mental health issues beyond anxiety and depression.
Will you write a support letter for me?
I only write support letters if I've worked with you, weekly, for at least 6 sessions. The cost of support letters is $100.
Would you work with an interpreter present?
Absolutely. However the interpreter needs to be a professional interpreter (not a friend or family member) and you (or the NDIS) would need to cover their fees.
Would you work with a support worker present?
Possibly - The support worker will need to have a strong understanding around confidentiality, and they will be asked to sign a form to this end. They cannot discuss what we talk about with their colleagues, or any other member of your support team, without your express, written consent. They must also be prepared to understand that I want to hear from YOU, not them, and their interjections and input will be politely declined. If you feel you will need a support worker to speak for you regularly, throughout session, then my therapy sessions will not be a good fit for you.
Fees
Payment is required prior to each session (first session to be paid on booking). Bank/Card payment details will be sent to you upon booking.
Individual sessions are 70 minutes long. (90 minute individual sessions are available for $195)
$165 – Walk and Talk Session
$165 – Zoom (Secure video)
$165 – Sand Sessions
$195 - 90 minute sessions
$220 - Couples - 90 minutes
$157 - NDIS rate
If you have a self managed or plan managed NDIS plan, I am able to provide an invoice for the cost of each session. However the first payment will be required up front, you can then send the receipt to your provider who will refund you the cost of the session.
Do you offer sessions on a mental health plan?
You do not need a mental health care plan to work with me.
There are some advantages to this:
*You don't need to see your gp to see me, so there is nothing listed on your health record when utilising my service.
*Your sessions aren't limited per year
*You don't need to get 'reviews' to make sure you can keep coming back.
*It's also worth noting that what you'd be paying out of pocket under the mental health care plan is often comparable or not a whole lot less than what you would be paying to see a private counsellor. An added bonus is there are no long wait lists - you can usually get a session with me, within a week or two, if your availability aligns with mine.
*I'm not able to, or wanting to diagnose you - I just work with you on your past, present and future.
* My sessions go for 70 minutes (and there is also a 90 minute option when booking), whereas most services only offer you 50 or 55 minute.
You can access the following for free or heavily discounted counselling options:
Hunter Womens Centre
Lifeline Hunter Central Coast
Uniting
VOCAL
or try your local neighbourhood/community centres. There are many options out there for you, just google to find additional options in your area.
And if ever you find yourself feeling like you just need someone to listen right now you can call:
Lifeline – 131114
Beyond Blue (24/7) 1300 22 4636
Can I claim anything back from my health insurer?
You would need to ask them directly. Every insurer is different.
Can I book you through Workers Comp or Victims of Crime funding?
No.
Are you religious?
I don’t belong to any faith based organisations, or actively practice any kind of religion. However, I do have a first hand experience of how faith, the church and belief systems can impact on an individuals life.
Are you an LGBTIQ+ ally?
I identify as a same-sex attracted woman, however I am not an expert on sex, gender or sexuality. If you want to discuss specific concerns around transitioning or questions regarding gender and/or coming out, then I recommend you get in contact with ACON in Islington (4962 7700) who can put you in touch with counsellor’s who have the appropriate experience and training in these areas.
I do, however, offer couples counselling specifically to women in same-sex relationships.
Do you work with children?
I don't work with anyone under 18.
Do you work with men?
If a man is looking to genuinely improve his relationship with himself and the important people in his life, if he is willing to face and acknowledge any pain points in his life and if he is committed to doing the work, then I am open to working with him.
However, a Google search or a browse on psychology today will yield you a number of practitioners to choose from.
Do you work with couples?
YES! I work with women in same-sex relationships. However your partner must be on board with the process. Have a look at my couples page for more information.
Gabrielle Lawrie and Jacqui Sharp are some other couples therapists that are highly recommended.
If your partner isn't keen, I can work with YOU on how your relationship issues are impacting on you and help you to develop skills and strategies for improving/coping within your current situation. I can also help you decide whether you want to stay in or leave your relationship.
Can I bring my kids/dog?
Settled newborns (up to 3 months) would be fine, but as they get older and more active, they would not be able to be present for therapy.
Quiet, well behaved dogs (as in they do as they are told, are able to be still for lengthy periods) are fine in areas where dogs are allowed, if you feel that having your dog with you would enhance the therapeutic process, however please don’t bring your dog without checking with me first.
What if it is raining/too hot/too cold?
I do not have an office, and the weather does not always co-operate with our plans to meet for walk and talk therapy. In the instance when being outdoors would be too uncomfortable or unsafe, we can have a video session or meet in a cafe if you are comfortable with that.
What is your cancellation policy?:
If you cancel more than 24 hours prior to your appointment, you can reschedule or receive a refund (minus any card fees). Within 24 hours of appointment, no refunds given.
Will you tell anyone what we discuss?
Our sessions are confidential, but there are exceptions. If you tell me anything that indicates that you or someone else is at risk of serious harm, then as I am a mandatory reporter, I am obligated to act on this information.
Also, all counsellors are required to attend supervision, so it is possible that I may discuss your case for the purpose of getting advice for how best to support you, this is done in a respectful way and the supervisor is bound by the same confidentiality requirements as any other counsellor. Your information can also be provided if my notes are subpoenaed by the court, or if you give written permission for me to pass them on to someone.
If I tell you I am suicidal, will you report me?
A lot of people experience suicidal thinking. Some people experience this thinking for years and never have any intention of following through on the thoughts. I don’t make a report if someone expresses general thoughts around suicide, which they clearly are not going to act on (and I will clarify this). However, if I am concerned that you have an active plan to kill yourself in the immediate future, then in that situation, I am obligated to let emergency services know so that we can get you the assistance you need.