Question 1

Are you registered and insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Pivot Counselling employs registered counsellors accredited by the Australian Counselling Association (ACA), each holding a Master of Counselling degree. We also maintain Professional Indemnity and Public Liability Insurance through Focus Insurance for your peace of mind.

Question 2

Is counselling confidential?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all counselling sessions are strictly confidential. Information shared during sessions will not be disclosed without your consent, except in cases where we are legally obligated to act, such as to protect you or others from harm or comply with court orders. Your privacy and trust are our top priorities.

Question 3

Do you have a Working With Vulnerable People (WWVP) Card and Criminal History Check?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. All Pivot Counselling team members hold current WWVP Cards for the Australian Capital Territory and have undergone a National Police Check.

Question 4

Do you offer face-to-face or online sessions?

Accepted Answer

We provide both options. You can see us in person at our Lyneham office or opt for secure online sessions via telehealth video calls, depending on your preference and convenience.

Question 5

Do I need a Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) or a referral?

Accepted Answer

No, you do not need an MHCP or a referral to access our counselling services. However, if you have one, please bring it along as it may help us better understand your needs and how we can assist you.

Question 6

Is there a Medicare rebate or bulk billing available?

Accepted Answer

Currently, counselling services are not covered under Medicare, though we remain hopeful this will change in the near future. As a result, we are unable to provide rebates or bulk billing. However, our fees are typically lower than the out-of-pocket costs charged by psychologists or other allied health professionals. Additionally, as a private counselling practice, we pride ourselves on offering shorter wait times and a more personalised approach, ensuring a smoother, more convenient, and stress-free experience for our clients.

Question 7

Does Pivot Counselling accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

At this stage, counselling sessions are not covered by health insurance. However, we are actively collaborating with providers such as BUPA and ARGH to establish coverage options. We aim to expand these partnerships in the future to make our services more accessible.

Question 8

What should I expect at my first session?

Accepted Answer

Before your first session, you’ll receive an intake form to complete. This helps us make the most of our time together. During the session, we will explore your concerns, gain an understanding of your goals, and begin identifying how we can best support you.

Question 9

What should I expect during a session?

Accepted Answer

In each session, we work collaboratively with you to uncover your strengths and gain fresh perspectives on your concerns. Our approach is empathetic, non-judgmental, and goal oriented. We listen actively and ask thoughtful questions to help you make progress toward overcoming challenges.

Question 10

How do I pay for sessions?

Accepted Answer

During the online intake process, you’ll securely provide your credit card details, which will be safely stored to facilitate easy payments. Session fees are automatically processed after each appointment for a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Individual counselling sessions (1 hour) are $165, and couples therapy sessions (1 hour) are $240.

Question 11

What happens if I cancel or miss a session?

Accepted Answer

We understand that life happens. However, cancellations made with less than 48 hours’ notice, as well as missed appointments, will incur the full session fee.

Question 12

What is the Gottman Method for Couples Therapy?

Accepted Answer

The Gottman Method is a research-based approach to couples therapy developed by Drs. John and Julie Gottman. It focuses on strengthening relationships by improving communication, building trust, and resolving conflict constructively. The method is grounded in decades of research on what makes relationships work. The Gottman Method is suitable for couples at any stage of their relationship, whether you’re experiencing challenges or simply want to deepen your connection. It can help with communication issues, conflict resolution, rebuilding trust after infidelity, navigating life transitions, or enhancing overall relationship satisfaction.

Question 13

What should we expect in a Gottman Method therapy session?

Accepted Answer

The Gottman Method Couples Therapy begins with a structured assessment process to gain a deep understanding of your relationship dynamics and identify areas for growth. This involves the following steps:

Initial Couples Session (1 Hour):
Both partners meet with the therapist together to discuss the history of your relationship, your current challenges, and your goals for therapy. This session helps establish a shared understanding of the issues and sets the foundation for the next steps.
Individual Sessions (1 Hour Each):
Each partner then attends a private, one-on-one session with the therapist. This allows each person to share their perspective, experiences, and concerns openly and confidentially. These sessions are vital for uncovering individual thoughts and emotions that may influence the relationship.
Follow-Up Couples Session (1 Hour):
After the individual sessions, both partners come back together with the      therapist to review the insights gained during the assessment. The therapist provides feedback, including strengths and areas for improvement, and begins guiding you through tailored interventions based on Gottman Method principles.

The number of sessions depends on your unique goals and challenges as a couple.
Many couples benefit from a series of 8–12 sessions, but some may require fewer or more depending on the complexity of their concerns and desired outcomes.

Frequently asked questions