What to expect when we first connect?

Hello,
Deciding to start or return to counselling can be a big decision, and I’m to guide you through what to expect when you reach out.
First off, a connection call is your chance to see I’m the right fit for your counselling goals, and for me to ensure I can support you fully. Counselling is a deeply personal journey, and it’s essential that you feel safe.
Don’t forget to check out the FAQ section below as that might answer some of your questions!
Getting in touch is super easy! You can fill out a contact form, book a free 15-minute connection call, or email me at kirsten@conversationsinnature.com.au.
Once we connect, I’ll invite you to share what comfortable sharing, that is important for me to understand. This could include why you believe counselling could be beneficial, what led you to consider it, or your hopes for our time together. If you’ve been in counselling before, I’d love to hear what worked for you and what didn’t. Rest assured, there’s no need to dive into anything too personal right away; we’ll build a trusting relationship at your pace!
I prioritise a person-centred , client led, companion counselling approaches in my counselling practice with some Psycho-Education to help you understand your experience from an evidence based perspective. My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where you feel empowered to lead the conversation and explore your thoughts and feelings. My goal is to foster a trusting relationship that encourages personal growth and self-discovery, allowing you to navigate your unique journey towards healing and well-being. Together, we work collaboratively to uncover insights and develop strategies that resonate with your personal values and aspirations.
My promise is that your counselling sessions will be tailored to you, focusing on healing and developing healthy strategies to navigate life’s complexities. If you feel counselling with me could be the right fit, we’ll discuss how to schedule our sessions, including when to start, how often to meet and whether you prefer phone calls, video sessions or perhaps a Somatic therapeutic approach like Yoga. If you’re in Melbourne CBD, we can even explore Walk and Talk sessions Or if you are not in Melbourne you could go to a green space and we can do a session on the phone.
Remember, these sessions are all about you! You guide the process, and I’m here to walk alongside you, to support you, to offer deep listening, to understand and share your story, to ensure you feel comfortable and safe. Whether you prefer a quick series of 8 sessions or longer-term journey, we’ll take the time needed to build that trust.
There’s absolutely no obligation to engage in counselling with me; our first step is to see if we align, understand your goals and needs. As we get to know each other, we’ll reflect and make adjustments this is all part of creating a strong, therapeutic relationship! I hope this gives you the clarity you need, and I understand how daunting reaching out can be I look forward to hearing from you soon!
Warmly,
Kirsten
Frequently asked questions
Can I do walk and talk therapy if I’m not in Melbourne CBD?
Do You offer Student or Pensioner discount?
Can I use a MHCP - Mental Health Care Plan
Can I use National Redress Scheme funding for counselling with you?
Do you accept Victims of Crime-funded counselling?
Can you work with my self- or plan-managed NDIS funding?
Can I book counselling with you through WorkSafe Victoria?
Do I work with Couples?
Can you help if I’m healing after family violence or childhood trauma?
What kinds of issues do you support in counselling?
Do you offer counselling support after a suicide loss?
What can I expect in my first counselling session?
Is counselling confidential?
How do I book a session with you?
Do you offer online, phone, and walk and talk counselling?
What is your cancellation or rescheduling policy?
Do you offer clinical supervision for counsellors?
Yoga - Do I have to be a counselling client to book Yoga - Healing Trauma sessions?
Do I have to have experience or be flexible to do Yoga with you?
Do I need Yoga Props or special clothing?
What would counselling look like for you?
Conversations in Nature
For those in Melbourne and surrounds that want to connect in person. You can request your favourite garden or walking trail for us to hold your sessions - Weather permitting, although a little rain won't stop us, we are from Melbourne after all.
OPTION - if you would like to walk and talk in a green space outside of Melbourne - we can have our session on the phone. We can talk about this in our connection call.
Phone Counselling
For those who like to connect from the comfort of their own space by phone.
Please be sure to set a quiet space and consider using a headset.
Invitation to create a safe space for your counselling session.
Video Counselling
For those who like to be in their own space but connect via video for their counselling session.
Please be sure to set a quiet space and consider using a headset.
Invitation to create a safe space for your counselling session.
Yoga - Healing Trauma
I have 7 separate Yoga - Healing Trauma Classes that you can complete as a course or choose the one that meets your needs. We can do these online via zoom, in your home or if you like with the added benefit of Nature Healing in a Park or Garden in the CBD.
More information about Yoga - Healing Trauma
Free 15 Minute Connection Call
A 15 minute Connection Call is available for you to share your situation and discuss ways in which we may be able to work together. It is important that you feel comfortable and safe to start your counselling, so this call is designed to answer your questions and for you to learn a little bit more about me, to make sure that you and I both feel we would be a good fit for you to navigate your challenges.