Question 1

What is counselling and what will it help me with?

Accepted Answer

Counselling is a collaborative process where a trained professional helps you explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a safe and confidential space. It can help with a wide range of issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, grief and loss, and self-esteem. The goal of counselling is to support you in understanding and overcoming challenges, developing coping strategies, and achieving positive personal growth.

Question 2

What is the difference between a counsellor and a psychologist?

Accepted Answer

A counsellor and a psychologist both provide mental health support, but their roles differ. A counsellor typically focuses on providing therapeutic support for personal challenges, emotional distress, and everyday life issues. They may offer a variety of evidence-based therapies to address specific concerns. A psychologist, on the other hand, is a licensed professional who may provide therapy, but they also conduct psychological testing, diagnose mental health disorders, and offer more in-depth interventions for more complex conditions.

Question 3

How can I be sure that what I discuss with my counsellor remains private?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all counselling sessions are confidential. Anything discussed with your counsellor will remain private, unless you provide consent for information to be shared with a third party. The only exception is if there is a risk of harm to yourself or others (e.g. suicide or assault), in which case, we are legally required to report it. However, even in these situations, we strive to obtain your written consent wherever possible. ViKa Counselling Services adheres to all professional and legal confidentiality requirements to ensure your privacy.

Question 4

How can I access counselling at ViKa?

Accepted Answer

There are three simple ways to get started:

1. Email us at info@vikacounselling.com.au

2. Call us at Vishwa: 0430 596 021 (tel:+61430596021)and Kashish 0450 521 500 (tel:+610450521500)

3. Fill out the contact form on the Contact Us page to book a free 15-minute initial consultation

Book your free initial consultation call.

Question 5

Can I claim a Medicare rebate for counselling sessions?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, counselling services are not eligible for a Medicare rebate, as we are registered as a Counsellor and Psychotherapist, not a Psychologist. Medicare rebates are available only for Psychologists and Social Workers.

While claiming a Medicare rebate can be helpful, it may come with limitations on treatment modalities. These interventions might not always be the most effective for your situation. When choosing a counsellor, it's important to consider factors such as training, reputation, client feedback, and the ability to tailor a specific, time-limited plan with tangible outcomes. At ViKa Counselling, we focus on offering personalized and effective strategies to help you achieve your goals.

Question 6

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

When you book an appointment, that time is specifically reserved for you. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please do so with sufficient notice to avoid a fee. Our cancellation policy is as follows:

• 48 hours notice: No charge
 • 24 hours notice or after reminder text: 50% of session fee
 • Same day cancellations or no-shows: Full session fee

To cancel or reschedule, please call or text 0430 596 021 (tel:0430596021)| 0450 521 500 (tel:0450521500)or email info@vikacounselling.com.au.(mailto:info@vikacounselling.com.au)

Please note: Repeated cancellations or failure to pay the cancellation fee may result in the discontinuation of services. Thank you for your understanding.

Question 7

Do I need a referral to access counselling?

Accepted Answer

No, you do not need a referral to see a counsellor at ViKa. You can contact us directly via the Contact Us page to book an appointment.

Book your free initial consultation call (this is a link that will take the reader to the contact form on the contact us page)

Question 8

Can I claim through private health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Yes, some private health insurers offer rebates for counselling sessions. For example, Medibank Private (Family Essentials and Family Comprehensive Policies) and Australian Unity Health (Life Choice and Life Choice Plus policies with a referral from a GP). Additionally, if your annual out-of-pocket medical expenses exceed $1500, you may be eligible for a 20% rebate when you submit your tax return.

Question 9

How will I know if counselling has been successful?

Accepted Answer

Success in counselling is often reflected in noticeable improvements in how you feel, think, and behave. You might experience reduced distress, better coping strategies, improved relationships, or a clearer sense of direction. Success is unique to each individual, and we will regularly check in with you to track your progress and make adjustments to the approach as needed.

Question 10

How many sessions will I need?

Accepted Answer

The number of sessions varies depending on your needs and the goals you want to achieve. Some people may find relief in just a few sessions, while others may benefit from longer-term support. During your initial consultation, we will discuss a plan tailored to your needs, and we’ll revisit this plan as your progress is assessed over time.

Question 11

What happens at my first appointment?

Accepted Answer

At your first appointment, your counsellor will take time to get to know you, understand your concerns, and explain how counselling works. This session is an opportunity for you to ask any questions, share your goals for therapy, and discuss any worries or expectations you may have. Together, you’ll begin to create a plan for your therapy moving forward.

Question 12

Do I need to prepare for my first counselling session?

Accepted Answer

No extensive preparation is required. However, it can be helpful to reflect on what brought you to counselling and what you hope to achieve. You are welcome to bring any notes or questions that will help you express your thoughts clearly. This will help ensure the session is as productive as possible. You may also want to think about how you're feeling emotionally and mentally at the time, which could guide the conversation.