Frequently Asked Questions and Fees

This is one of those “how long is a piece of string” questions.

Some people find their issue has been addressed after just a couple of sessions.

Others may prefer to continue meeting regularly for a little longer.

 It’s really up to you.

Individual sessions usually last for 60 minutes.

For Couples and Relationship Counselling Sessions I usually recommend booking in for 90 minutes initially, with the option for shorter sessions as we progress

A referral is not necessary to make an appointment to come and see me.

You may visit as often as you like, whenever it suits you.

People usually see a counsellor about something that is bothering them in the moment.

My training is in Process Oriented Psychology, which supports a gradual process of change by delving more deeply into the “roots” or causes of a problem, rather than simply addressing symptoms that may appear on the surface.

The aim is to develop greater awareness, understanding and self-empowerment.

As a Developmental Practitioner, I look for the “roots” or “why” beneath a child’s learning and behavioural challenges.

These often include indications of disruptions to early stages of a child’s development.

The good news is that any immaturities can be addressed with an individualised development program

Some of the things I look for include:

Sensory processing – visual processing, listening, sense of balance

Motor skills and coordination

Spatial awareness and body geography

While I no longer offer the movement program, I combine my 20+ years of clinical experience with holistic counselling in my approach to supporting parents

An holistic approach to healing recognises that a child’s behaviours and learning difficulties do not exist in isolation.

We are all part of a family and wider community, and all parts are inter-connected.

Rather than seeing the behaviour as something to be removed, I see this as a message or sign to be followed. 

In parenting support sessions, I might ask you how you perceive an experience in your body. Together, we will be able to gently unfold these sensory experiences, helping you to explore what might be underlying your disturbance.

Releasing old beliefs and patterns of behaviour  can help you to find greater levels of self awareness, and a new sense of freedom.

The result is growth in wisdom, awareness and understanding.

Your first session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other. 

You will be asked to complete a short Client Intake Questionnaire, and a Therapy Agreement. both of which are legal requirements.

I will then invite you to tell me a little more about why you are here, and what you would like to achieve from your counselling and parenting support sessions, and we will start to unfold your process. 

At the end, I will ask if you have any questions, and if you would like to continue to work with me.  

Then we will arrange a  suitable date and time for your next appointment.

Counselling sessions are a time to share your parenting concerns.

We might talk about strategies for change, based on understanding what your child’s behaviours might really mean.

We can also look at what is happening in your own life, and ways to help you to remain present and help your child when they are struggling

Sometimes it really helps to explore patterns and beliefs that you have brought with you from your own childhood

We can also look at helping you and your partner to connect over parenting issues and work together as a team to help your child

While I have 20+ year of experience with working with children, I rarely see children today, and then only if  their parents are having their own regular parenting support sessions.

None of us exists in isolation, and I find that best results can be achieved when we are able to work together, helping you to help your child.

From my experience over the last 20 years I have found that when parents feel supported, the gains naturally flow on to those around us.

Behaviour and learning naturally improve when a child feels safe and supported.

I find that parenting support sessions are more successful when we are able to talk privately, without your child being present.

We can always arrange a separate counselling session for your child if necessary.