We know there’s many questions prior to an initial session.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR SESSIONS 

What is Courtney’s Therapeutic Approach?

The therapy experience is deeply personal and unique. Each person goes on a journey to discover themselves and ask questions they have been meaning to explore. At times, you may be challenged - in a gentle and non-judgemental manner, to consider what might be stuck, or what might be secure. As a therapist, I am just as invested to learn from you, as you may be to learn from your therapy experience.

Why would I be learning from you? Well, all therapists should endeavour to learn something from their clients. Each person who enters the therapy room, has a set of beliefs, values, and experiences which have all intricately interacted to construct your psyche. I do not presume to “know all” just as no human should presume to “know all.”

No human will be a copy of another and every client will be viewed individually with carefully tailored treatment plans. To apply an approach to every client as a “one size fits all” is not my way. I will listen and together we will collaboratively establish a plan that suits your needs.

Feedback of how the therapy made you feel, and what was meaningful to you, is something I value. I will ask you to genuinely share what worked well and how you would like to spend your time. Whilst you can prepare in advance, you can also arrive as you are and let each session evolve naturally.

Therapy is a place you go, to be as vulnerable as you decide and at your pace.

"The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change" - Carl Rogers. 

GETTING STARTED

How do I get a referral?

You can self-refer (send an email directly) or ask your General Practitioner (GP) to refer under a Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP).

What is a Mental Health Care Plan?

Mental Health Care Plans allow you or people you care about to access psychological support for a lower cost. This is called a subsidy and during a calendar year (12 months), 10 sessions are rebated under the Better Help initiative.

What else do I need to know about the 10 sessions?

When you are referred for psychological sessions, your psychologist will need to communicate to your GP after the initial 6 sessions. You will then need to attend your GP again to access a further 4 sessions. At close of psychological support, your psychologist will then communicate with the GP that intervention has closed.

How much is the rebate?

As of 2025-2026, the rebate for psychological interventions for a general psychologist is $98.95. This means you will get back $98.95 through Medicare.

How do I set-up to receive my rebate?

To receive your Medicare rebate after your psychology session, make sure your Medicare details are linked to your myGov account. It only takes a few minutes:

  1. Create or sign in to your myGov account at my.gov.au

  2. Link the Medicare service by selecting “Link another service” and choosing Medicare.

  3. You’ll be prompted to verify your identity using details from your Medicare card.

  4. Once linked, your bank account details can be added or updated directly in Medicare Online.

  5. After your session, your rebate will be processed electronically and paid straight into your nominated bank account—usually within 1–3 business days.

What happens with cancellations?

You cannot claim the rebate if you cancel late or do not show up to your scheduled session. There is no leniency and this service adheres to all regulations and expectations of the Australian Government and Medicare.

FIRST SESSION

What happens in the first session?

Your first session is a gentle introduction. We’ll explore what brought you here, what you’d like support with, and what you hope to achieve. You don’t need to have all the answers and sometimes you may find it hard to describe what’s occurring - that’s okay. Clarity often develops through the process. I’ll also ask some background questions to help me understand your history, experiences, strengths, and needs. The session and subsequent sessions will be at your pace.

Do I need to prepare anything beforehand?

You’re welcome to come as you are. If you have a written documents or items that will either help you in attending or help in communicating who you are, bring them in. This may include reports, or relevant documents - but they’re not essential. Some clients like to jot down key concerns or goals in a journal, or notes in their phone however; the most important preparation is simply showing up.

How long is the session?

Therapy sessions are 50 minutes.

What if I feel nervous or unsure about what to say?

All feelings tell a story or provide us with a clue - they’re extremely value and welcomed. I’ll guide the conversation with supportive questions so you never feel lost or pressured. Many people find their nerves settle within the first few minutes and if they don’t, that’s okay as well.

Can I bring someone with me?

You are welcome to bring a support person or an additional person who may provide insight into what is occurring. However, most of the session will focus on you with some additional information invited from another person.

Will everything I share be confidential?

Yes, psychologists take confidentiality very seriously, as do others in healthcare professions. Everything you discuss remains confidential, except in very limited situations required by law (e.g., safety risks, subpoenas). We will go through this clearly in session.

What types of questions will you ask?

You will be asked questions such as:

  • What has brought you in today?

  • What are you having difficulty with at this current time?

  • What do you do well?

  • How would you like your life to look?

How many sessions will I need?

This varies from person to person. Some people benefit from a few sessions; others prefer ongoing support and this depends on many different factors. Together, we’ll discuss your goals and review progress regularly so your therapy remains useful and aligned with your needs.

What if I realise I need a different type of support?

I truly want the best for people who have taken the first step in seeking support. That’s why I am more than happy to support you in finding the right support, even if it’s not me.

What if I cancel before the first session?

If you cancel within 48 hours, there will be a fee as per the cancellation policy. If you have decided now is not the right time, make contact to let us know - it’s okay to take your time in taking the first step.