Question 1

What can I expect on my first appointment?

Accepted Answer

On your first appointment, you will meet with an experienced therapist who will mainly focus on assessment; time will be spent exploring what brings you to counselling, your counsellor and you will work together to identify your goals. This will include decisions on frequency of appointments and the possible number of sessions required to reach these goals.

Question 2

Do I have to be religious to use these services?

Accepted Answer

No, our clients come from a wide variety of religious and cultural backgrounds. The Counsellors at Connections Counselling are Christian Counsellors and can incorporate faith into your counselling sessions, if you desire.   The benefits of counselling:   A counsellor will provide support, encouragement and guidance. You will have the opportunity to tell your story in a confidential space without criticism or judgment. The benefits of counselling can lead to greater self-awareness, insight and strength to face the challenges of life, to find hope and meaning.   The therapy/counselling process helps people get “unstuck”. Through the development of insight and increased self awareness, people are able to gain a better understanding of their own behavior and the issues, feelings and events that motivate them.

Question 3

Are sessions confidential?

Accepted Answer

Information supplied by you will be kept confidential and may only be released to a third party with your written authority, except when:   - It is subpoenaed by a court - If a client is at risk of harming themselves or someone else Even in these circumstances, every effort will be made to gain your written consent.

Question 4

Are fees structured?

Accepted Answer

Our fees are affordable, based on a sliding scale in proportion to combined household income. Fees are automatically deducted from your nominated credit/debit card 30 minutes into your session.

Question 5

How do I pay for my counselling session?

Accepted Answer

All payments are available through CCFS Giving App for your convenience, no cash transactions are available.

Question 6

What if I want to cancel an appointment?

Accepted Answer

You are welcome to cancel your appointment at anytime.  A full fee will be charged for late cancellation and missed appointments if 48 hours notice is not given.

Question 7

How long is a counselling session?

Accepted Answer

Each counselling and psychotherapy session lasts for 50 minutes.

Question 8

Do I need a referral?

Accepted Answer

You are welcome to self-refer to our counselling service. Many of our clients seek our services via word of mouth recommendations, referrals, and internet-based searches.   GP Mental Health Care Plans are available through your GP. Please contact us for further information via 0499 042 551.