Frequently Asked Questions.

1. What can I expect in my first session?
The first session is about connection and understanding. It's a chance for you to share what's brought you to counselling and for us to get to know each other. My priority is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and validated. We'll talk about your hopes for therapy and I'll explain how I work. There's no pressure to share anything you're not ready to. By the end, we'll have a sense of whether we're a good fit and how we might move forward together.

2. I see you use many methods. What does that look like in a session?
My approach is integrative, which means I draw from a range of evidence-based therapies to best suit your needs. My core is always person-centred, ensuring you feel valued and valid. From there, we might use:

• Gottman Method: For couples, to improve communication, manage conflict, and deepen intimacy.

• Inner Child Healing & Attachment Theory: To understand how early patterns and relationships affect your present life.

• Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT): To build on your existing strengths and focus on your desired future.

• CBT: To manage unhelpful thoughts and behaviours and align your actions with your values.

  We will collaborate to find the blend that feels most effective for you.

3. What is your specialty?
While I work with a wide range of concerns, my training allows me to offer specialised support in:

• Couples Therapy: Using the Gottman Method to help partners strengthen their relationship foundation.

• Healing from Past Wounds: Using inner child work and attachment theory to address the impact of past experiences on your current well-being.
  My overall specialty, however, is creating a genuine, trusting relationship where healing and growth can occur.

4. How long does counselling take?
This is different for everyone. Some people find a few sessions of Solution-Focused therapy are enough to gain clarity and develop new strategies. Others dealing with deeper patterns from attachment wounds or childhood may benefit from longer-term support. We will regularly check in on your progress and your goals. You are in complete control, and we will work at a pace that feels right for you.

5. How do I know if you're the right counsellor for me?
The most important factor in successful counselling is the connection and trust between us. I encourage you to think of our first session as a two-way interview. It's as much for you to see if you feel comfortable, safe, and understood with me as it is for me to understand your needs. I am committed to your journey, and that includes being authentic. If, for any reason, you feel we aren't the right fit, I will fully support you and help you find a therapist who is.

6. Is your practice discreet? I'm concerned about privacy.
Absolutely. I understand the concerns about stigma. My practice operates from a private, self-contained studio in Bannockburn. It is not marked with any signage or advertising. From the outside, it appears you are simply visiting a home. All sessions are completely confidential, adhering to the ethical guidelines of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA).

7. What are your fees, and do you offer rebates?
Please visit the Fees & Services page on my website for the most current pricing for individuals and couples. Medicare currently does not provide rebates for counselling services, however your out of pocket cost for a rebated service may still be higher than my fees please check whilst searching for your support.

8. Where are you located?
Birdhouse Counselling is based in Bannockburn, VIC. The practice is easily accessible for clients from across the Golden Plains Shire, including Geelong, Winchelsea, Inverleigh, and the surrounding areas. Precise address details and directions are provided upon booking your appointment.

9. What if my partner isn't sure about couples counselling?
This is a very common situation. Often, one partner is more ready to start than the other. I suggest we begin with a free 15 minute chat on the phone which is bookable online and from there we can book an individual session to discuss your concerns and hopes for the relationship. This can sometimes help the hesitant partner feel more comfortable understanding what the process involves. The Gottman Method is designed to be a practical, skills-based approach, which can feel less intimidating than people sometimes expect.

10. What's the meaning behind the name "Birdhouse Counselling"?
The name was inspired by a gift from a dear friend: a birdhouse placed in my garden. To us, it symbolises new life, hope, and fresh beginnings—which is exactly what I hope to help my clients achieve. Just as a birdhouse provides a safe haven, my goal is to provide a supportive sanctuary where you can work towards building a new life, free from the weight of past difficulties

Want more information or have more questions…