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PH: 0400 416 535
FAQ
Are you a registered Counsellor?
Yes, I am registered with the Australian Counselling Association, so you can rest assured I will always act ethically and with your best interest in mind at all times.
Who can access Mindful Crossroads counselling services?
Any individuals and families who feel they may benefit from counselling are welcome to contact Karen at Mindful Crossroads.
This includes but is not limited to individuals and families living in the following suburbs; Tweed Heads, Banora Point, Bilambil, Terranora, Chinderah, Cudgen, Fingal, Kingscliff, Casuarina, Cabarita Beach, Bogangar, Hastings Point, Pottsville, Murwillumbah, Coolangatta, Tugun, Kirra, Bilinga, Currumbin and Palm Beach.
How long do I have to wait before I can get an appointment?
I understand how daunting it can be to see a counsellor and I realise that once you have made the decision to do so, you will want to see me as soon as you can. I will usually be able to see you within the seven days following your contact with me.
Do people normally feel nervous or anxious about seeing a counsellor?
It is completely normal to feel nervous when starting your counselling journey. When you first come to counselling you don’t really know what to expect and you are most likely stepping into unfamiliar territory. My role is to help you feel at ease and encourage you to tell me your story in your own words, in your own time and in your own way.
What type of therapy do you do?
My sessions are based around narrative therapy, solution focused therapy and play therapy. Narrative therapy is about letting you tell your story in your own way and weaving together all the important pieces to help you understand where you are at today. Solution focused therapy aims to look at what is currently happening in your life and helping you explore appropriate solutions suited to your situation. Play therapy is especially useful when children are involved as they are not always able to verbally express what is happening in their lives. This type of therapy encourages children to express thoughts and emotions whilst in play mode, providing opportunities for me to ask questions and gently delve deeper into areas of concern.
How long are counselling sessions and how much do they cost?
My sessions usually run for 1 hour and cost $55 per hour. For those over 65 years of age who have an aged pension concession card, a discounted rate is available. Please contact me to discuss this further.
In the event you need to cancel a session with less than 24 hour’s notice, a cancellation fee of $40 will apply.
What method of payment do you accept?
Payment can be made via cash, EFTPOS or credit card and is required at the conclusion of your appointment.
Is there a set number of sessions I have to attend?
No, the number of sessions you attend totally depends upon you and how well you are coping. The frequency will vary depending upon the progress you are making. Initially, I would encourage weekly visits and then we may stretch them out to fortnightly or monthly.
Are my counselling sessions confidential?
Our counselling sessions will be confidential unless information you provide falls under mandatory reporting. Instances which would require me to breach confidentiality include threats to harm yourself or others and a subpoena from a court of law.
Do I need a referral to see you?
No. When you see a counsellor you don’t need to have a referral from your GP, so this means you can commence your counselling journey a lot more quickly.
My GP has given me a Mental Health Care Plan, can I use this for counselling?
No, Mental Health Care Plans are used when being referred to a Psychologist. Your GP should be able to arrange this for you.
Will counselling tell me what I should do?
Counselling isn’t about telling you what you should do. It’s about helping you to change your current behaviour patterns and move on from negative emotions. It’s about encouraging you to look at things from a different perspective, exploring your available options and providing you with the time and freedom to choose a solution best suited to what you want to achieve.
Can I stop attending counselling sessions whenever I want to?
Attending counselling is voluntary, unless you have a court order imposed upon you saying you have to attend. Voluntary counselling can be stopped at any time if you decide you no longer want to continue with the sessions.
How much does it cost to attend a workshop?
The costs for workshops vary, depending upon the type of workshop and how many sessions are involved. Please contact me for further details regarding any workshops you may wish to attend.