Questions about therapy
Questions about starting therapy, one at a time.
You can be curious, unsure, or simply looking for words. Start with the question that feels closest to you.
Could therapy help me?
You do not need to have everything worked out before getting in touch. We can begin with what feels difficult, confusing, or important to you.
You might want space for overwhelm, relationship patterns, grief, identity or a change in your life. We can talk about what you hope for and whether my way of working feels like a fit. An enquiry is a conversation, not a commitment.
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How does therapy work?
Therapy offers time to understand what you are experiencing and explore possible ways forward. Different approaches suit different people.
In my practice, we pay attention to your body, relationships, culture and everyday life, as well as your thoughts. We may notice a pattern, find language for a feeling, or explore a small change together. You are welcome to ask why we are trying something.
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What happens in a first session?
We begin by getting to know what brings you here and what you would like from our time. You can ask questions too.
We will discuss how sessions work, confidentiality and its limits, and what feels useful to focus on. You do not need a polished story. You can bring notes, pause, or say that you are not ready to talk about something.
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How many sessions might I need?
There is no single timetable that fits everyone. We can discuss a starting point and review what is useful as we go.
Your priorities, circumstances, budget and the kind of work all matter. In my practice, we check in about pace and next steps together. You can raise questions about continuing, taking a break or ending; you do not need to wait for a particular number of sessions.
Back to questionsWhat if it does not feel right?
Your experience of the work matters. You can tell me when something feels unclear, too much, or unhelpful.
We can change the pace, use different words or revisit our focus. You do not have to protect my feelings. If another approach or practitioner would suit you better, we can discuss that too.
Back to questionsIs this a neurodivergent-friendly space?
We can make room for different ways of communicating, focusing and processing. I have ADHD myself, and I will be curious about your experience rather than assume it matches mine.
You can ask for clearer structure, a recap, time to think, movement or breaks. We can talk about sensory preferences and what helps you participate. There is no expectation that you sit perfectly still or explain yourself in a particular way.
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What do you mean by nervous-system regulation?
In our work, this means noticing how your body responds to stress and what helps you feel more able to stay with an experience. It is not an instruction to be calm all the time.
We might slow down, notice tension, orient to the room or take a pause, with your agreement. We adjust or stop if something does not suit you. This is one part of the work alongside your relationships, circumstances and what matters to you.
Back to questionsCan I come if I have a diagnosis or take medication?
A diagnosis or medication does not automatically rule out therapy. We can discuss the support you need and whether this practice is suitable.
Therapy may sit alongside medical care. Medication questions belong with your prescriber. If you need a different level of support, we can discuss other care options. This website and practice enquiry are not an emergency service.
Back to questionsCan we have sessions in Mandarin?
Yes. Sessions can be in English or Mandarin.
Some experiences are easier to describe in the language they happened in. We can also talk about family, culture and the expectations that come with them. If moving between the two languages would help, tell me and we can work out how that suits you. Sessions are in Wheelers Hill or by telehealth anywhere in Australia.
Back to questionsDo I need an ADHD diagnosis to come?
No. ADHD support is for adults with ADHD, or who think they might have it, with or without a formal diagnosis.
I provide therapy and skills support. I don't diagnose ADHD or prescribe medication, and I work alongside the GP, psychiatrist or paediatrician who does. If an assessment would help, I can support a referral.
Back to questionsWhat is EMDR, and will I have to do it?
EMDR is a structured therapy for distressing memories. It is one option, used only when it suits you and your goals.
We start with safety and stability. The Australian PTSD guidelines recommend EMDR for adults with PTSD, and I have completed EMDR training Levels 1 and 2. You don't have to describe what happened in detail.
Back to questionsCan I use Medicare?
Yes, for eligible sessions. You usually need a Mental Health Treatment Plan and a referral from your GP.
The rebate applies to eligible individual sessions, not family sessions. Limited bulk-billed telehealth may be available for eligible young people aged 12–24. Current fees are on the Fees & booking page.
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