FAQ’s
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between coaching and counselling?
Like psychology, coaching and counselling are talking therapies. Coaching focuses on the present moment and helps you achieve goals or wins to succeed in a future task or activity. Counselling investigates the past. It enables you to uncover reasons for behaviours, triggers, habits, feelings and outcomes. Counselling helps you understand what and why things occur in your present life. Both have value and are used within this practice.
How do I prepare for a first session?
As your counsellor and coach, Toni-Maree understands that a first appointment is nerve-wracking. With this in mind, give yourself plenty of time to arrive at your destination. It’s also good to think about one thing you want to achieve from your sessions. If you have a mental blank in answering this question, that’s ok, as Toni-Maree will assist you in finding the answer.
How long is a therapy session?
Typically sessions go for an hour.
How much does a session cost?
Session fees are on a sliding scale. Discounts are available upon request. Some of our discounted clientele include victims of crime, return service personnel, NDIS participants, students and retirees.
How many therapy sessions should I have?
This is unique to each individual and depends on the complexity of the problem. Some people require only three or four sessions, while others need more. No one is required to attend a set number of sessions. On average, most people attend sessions every two weeks.
It’s important to note that you can change the frequency of sessions at any time.
What happens when I see a counsellor?
Toni-Maree understands that our culture tells us that we should be able to cope on our own. It isn’t easy to reach out for help. Trying to do it alone only makes you feel like no one else can feel or think the same way you do. This thinking will not help overcome life’s challenges.
Instead, counselling lets you recognise your potential and supports you towards a more fulfilling life.
Counselling involves conversations with outcomes and goals set jointly. Discussion is the key to understanding. Toni-Maree often provides reading material or homework to help you get the most from sessions. Homework gives you the space to practice the strategies and tools discussed during therapy without fear of failure. There is no such thing as failing at therapy. There is only learning and understanding so that you can create the life you want.
Counselling is where you talk safely and securely about any topic you want. It allows you to troubleshoot, understand and create outcomes that suit your individual life.
What tools or methods do you use?
Toni-Maree will choose from a range of recognised therapeutic tools widely used within the counselling and coaching professions. Results are achieved by a combination of approaches that look into the past, present and future feelings, thinking, habits and patterns of behaviour.
Examples include:
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
- Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
- Gottman Relationship Method
- Mindfulness Based Therapy
- Cognitive Restructuring
- Narrative Therapy
If you are looking for a particular type of therapy, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Toni-Maree directly as it may not be listed here. (link to contact details and form)
Can I cancel my sessions?
You can choose to end your therapy sessions at any time. I ask that you give me as much notice as possible if you do not wish to continue with therapy. You are welcome to return at any time in the future.
What if I get covid just before an appointment?
In these instances, telehealth or telephone sessions will be provided as an alternative.
Do you need me to wear a covid safe mask?
Yes. Masks are mandatory within the practice.
Are you a qualified and registered practitioner?
Yes. I hold two tertiary qualifications in counselling and life coaching. I am registered with Australia’s peak counselling body, the Australian Counselling Association (ACA).
Do you a registered provider with Health Funds?
Yes. GU Health and Doctors Health Fund.
Can I get a medicare rebate when seeing a counsellor or life coach?
No. Medicare does not currently provide rebates for counsellors or life coaches.
What are your privacy policies?
You may review our privacy policy here .