Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions? You’re in the right place.
Here you’ll find answers to the most common queries about our services.
If your question isn’t listed, just get in touch — we’re more than happy to help.
-
When are counselling appointments available?
I offer appointments Monday to Saturday, with after-hours options to make it easier to find a time that works for you.
Wait times can vary from a few days to a few weeks, depending on your preferred day, time, and current demand.Counselling is also available online across Australia via phone or Zoom. These flexible options mean you can receive support wherever you are from the comfort of your home or a place that feels safe for you. If you’d like to check availability or have a chat about your needs, you’re welcome to book a free 10-minute enquiry call with Leigh. Together, we can talk through what you’re looking for and find out if I'm best therapist to support you.
-
Can I claim Medicare or private health rebates for counselling?
Our services are eligible for Medicare rebates, as I am an accredited Mental health Social worker. To access Medicare rebates, you would need to see your GP for a mental health assessment and provide a Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) It’s also important to note that Medicare does not cover couples or family counselling, even under a MHCP.If you’re unsure whether our services are the right fit for your needs, you’re welcome to book a free 10 minute enquiry call to talk it through.
A growing number of private health insurers now offer rebates for counselling. Your ability to claim will depend on your level of cover and your insurer’s policies. To confirm whether your session is claimable, we recommend contacting us before your appointment on 0419692816 or emailing counsellingwithleigh@gmail.com.
As a guide, rebates may be available through a number of private health funds, including but not limited to: Bupa, Medibank, HCF, AHM, AIA, Teachers Health, Teachers Union Health, Police Health, and The Doctor’s Health Fund.
How will I know if your the right fit for me?
Firstly, check out "about us" pages to gain insight into our counsellors and our approach.
Following that, we provide a complimentary 10-minute telephone as an initial step.
During our initial conversation, we'll ask for a brief description of the concerns you wish to address.
This discussion will help you gauge our compatibility and determine if there's a connection.
If both parties feel it's a good match, we'll schedule your initial assessment session.
In cases where we believe we may not be the best fit for your needs, we would gladly offer referrals to counsellors who might be a better match for you and your specific concerns.
What is the difference between a Counsellor/ Psychotherapist/ Social worker and Psychologist?
While there can be overlaps in the services provided by these professionals, their specific training, qualifications, and areas of expertise differ.
Psychologists use scientific methods to study the factors that influence the way that people think, feel and learn. They use evidence-based strategies and interventions to help people overcome challenges and improve their performance.Clinical psychologists help with the diagnosis and treatment of mental illnesses.
(Information provided by The Australian Psychological Society) APS
While Counsellors, Psychotherapists, and Social workers may focus on talk therapy, counselling, and addressing broader social or emotional concerns.
A Counsellor & Psychotherapist is a professional that utilises interpersonal relationships to enable people to develop self-understanding and to make changes in their lives. Although Counselling and Psychotherapy overlap considerably, there are also recognised differences. While the work of Counsellors and Psychotherapists with clients may be of considerable depth, the focus of Counselling is more likely to be on specific problems, changes in life adjustments and fostering clients’ well being. Psychotherapy is more concerned with the restructuring of the personality or self and the development of insight. (Information provided by the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia) : PACFA
