FAQs
Therapy is the process of listening to develop a better understanding of the client and to help develop the client’s self-awareness and make changes in his or her life. The therapist ensures that the process is not only supportive but also to make the therapy process both safe and supportive.
A therapist and client will discuss the issues which are presented by the client usually for 50 minutes to 1 hour. Professional counsellors and psychotherapists help individuals explore and resolve issues that are interpersonal or personal in nature. They do so within the boundaries of a clearly drafted and principled relationship.
According to the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA). Counselling is based on an interpersonal relationship between the client and the counsellor which helps them develop a better understanding about themselves and then solve their problems. A counsellor is a trained professional that can help solve personal problems. The counselling process becomes effective when clients feel safe, understood, respected, and accepted without judgement.
Psychotherapy is about the client’s well-being and the healing, growth or transformation of emotional, physical and relationship issues. The aim of psychotherapy is to work with awareness and provide choices which facilitate the development and well-being of a client. A good friend can listen to you, but a Psychotherapist has the skills and professional training to help you when you are feeling overwhelmed.
Counsellors and Psychotherapists work with their clients to bring awareness through therapeutic processes. There is no one way to define psychotherapy but to follow the conscious mind, closely observe signals and be present in the moment. Healing happens through the connection of the relationship with the client and following the flow of the experience as its unfolding.
A key element of the practice of psychotherapy is the interpersonal relationship between the psychotherapist and the client. The interaction between therapist and client provide the relational encounter through which the client becomes aware of repeated patterns and ways of relating and develops insights, abilities, understandings and ways of being in the world.
No, you don’t need a referral. You can contact me to book an appointment.
Yes Telehealth Counselling is offered via Zoom or phone.
Sessions are paid via credit card (Visa, Mastercard) or by direct debit prior to the session (2 days).
Online sessions are paid via credit card or by direct debit two days prior to the session.
Unfortunately, my services are not covered under Mental Health Care Plans.
Call or text me on 0422 467 006 to make an appointment or book a 20 minute free phone consultation, or email debbie@empowercounsel-kva0.1wp.site
There is a 24-hour cancellation policy. If there is less than 24-hour notice when you cancel or need to reschedule the session or there is no-show, the full fee will have to be paid.
Depression can be challenging and complex to manage, and counselling can provide a supportive and safe space for individuals to explore and become aware of their feelings and work through their difficulties.
Counselling can help individuals with depression in a number of ways. Firstly, it can provide an opportunity to express and process feelings that may be difficult to understand and articulate. This can help individuals gain a better understanding of the underlying causes of their depression and develop coping strategies to manage how they’re feeling.
Secondly, counselling can provide practical support and guidance on how to manage depression symptoms, such as fatigue, loss of motivation, and negative thoughts. I use a range of techniques, that I draw from such as Process Psychology, Person Centred counselling, Mindfulness techniques, Self-Compassion focused therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT). These modalities help individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns that contribute to depression. By learning these skills, individuals can feel more in control of their emotions and better equipped to manage difficult situations. Improving relationships: Counselling can also help individuals improve their relationships with others, which can be a significant factor in reducing feelings of depression.
Lastly, counselling can offer individuals a sense of hope and optimism about their future. By working with a counsellor, individuals can develop a greater sense of self-awareness, increase their self-esteem, and identify achievable goals to work towards. This can help individuals feel more empowered and better equipped to manage their depression over the long-term.
Overall, counselling can be an effective and supportive form of therapy for individuals experiencing depression. It is important to seek professional help if you are struggling with depression or other mental health concerns. Learn more about depression click here.
Book an appointment at Empower Counselling or call 0422 467 006
Low self-confidence is a feeling of ‘not good enough’ that can affect a person's overall confidence and self-worth. There may be a feeling of a lack of belief and abilities in oneself, and a tendency to focus on weaknesses and limitations rather than strengths and accomplishments.
People with low self-confidence may struggle with fear of failure or rejection, self-doubt, and feelings of anxiety or overwhelm. They may avoid opportunities or social situations that require them to take risks or make connections with new people.
Low self-confidence can have a significant impact on a person's life, including their relationships, work or academic performance, and overall well-being. However, with counselling support and self-work, it is possible to improve self-confidence and develop a more positive self-image.
Here are some ways that a counsellor can support you:
- Identifying the cause: A counsellor can help you identify the underlying reasons for your low self-confidence. This might involve exploring past experiences or events that have contributed to your negative self-image.
- Reframing negative thoughts: A counsellor can help you recognize and challenge negative thoughts and beliefs about yourself that may be contributing to your low self-confidence. They can teach you techniques to reframe these thoughts and replace them with more positive and realistic ones.
- Developing self-compassion: A counsellor can help you develop a more compassionate and understanding relationship with yourself. This can involve learning to be kinder to yourself, being aware and understanding imperfections, and recognizing your strengths and achievements.
- Practicing assertiveness: A counsellor can teach you how to be more assertive in your interactions with others. This can help you feel more confident and in control in social situations,and reduce feelings of self-doubt.
- Setting achievable goals: A counsellor can help you set realistic goals for yourself, and provide support and guidance as you work towards them. This can help you build a sense of accomplishment and self-worth.
Learn more about low self-confidence click here
Book an appointment at Empower Counselling or call 0422 467 006
