Forms and Services

You can expect a relaxing environment at Compassionate Counselling Services. The counselling session is about the client, what they choose to discuss or disclose is largely focused on setting up realistic short and long-term goals and objectives with them.

The privacy of all communication between the client and your therapist is protected by law. Your therapist may take notes throughout the session. You will be asked if this is okay for you and if it is not, please notify your therapist prior to the commencement of your session. The notes taken will be professionally and safely stored away and are taken for the purpose of references for the therapist. All information shared within the session will strictly be confidential and remain between the therapist and his/her client, except on the three instances as stated below:

Any information can only be disclosed to others by law if;

1. If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another or themselves or under the threat of being seriously harmed.

2. Under a legally binding court order to disclose the notes, give a testimony or deposition.

3. When the counsellor is seeking professional advice from a mental health professional supervisor. Although it is vital to note that names are not customarily revealed in such cases.

Each client determines the best counselling approach to implement, as each person has unique needs and objectives. Hence, requiring one or many approaches that is right for them and their current situation. At Compassionate Counselling Services, we endeavour to use the correct approach to assist each client as best we can. The approaches that are available and can be adopted include but are not limited to: Personality and Developmental Theories, Learning Theories, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution Focuses Approach and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).

Please Note- At this point of time, we as Australian’s, are confronted by an unforeseen pandemic (COVID- 19), thus, it is required for us to navigate through this stage together. We are now providing counselling through telecommunication services (such as: Facetime) and are utilising applications such as; Skype and Zoom, amongst other avenues. Due to the financial hardship that is affecting all Australian's at this time, we are providing initial consultations free of charge and taking a further 50% off for all online sessions until further notice. The time of the phone/Facetime, Zoom or Skype session must be agreed on between counsellor and client through email or messaging.

Payments are expected on the day of the appointment/session. We have found it best to take payments prior to the commencement of each session, as it is best not to disrupt anything that has taken place during the session immediately afterwards. The fee would need to be forwarded prior to telephone or online session.

When you and your therapist feel ready to end your sessions, this decision will be discussed between both the client and the counsellor. It is important to have closure in your final session, when compared to an abrupt and unexpected exit from appointed sessions.

If you are experiencing a crisis during business hours, and require an appointment urgently, you can email, message or call your therapist directly. Usually an appointment can be made within 24 hours in crisis situations. If you need urgent or immediate attention, please call lifeline on 13 11 14 or 000 any time or day.