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 use a MHCP - Mental Health Care Plan
No. In Australia you do not need a MHCP to see a counsellor. We are not covered by Medicare. However, our rate is usually the same as the gap fee and there are the added benefits of me not being required to write reports for your referring Dr. Our sessions are confidential.
To be approved for a MHCP you need to be diagnosed with a Mental Health Condition, Counselling works for those who do not have or need a diagnosis.
You can find more information about the MHCP here https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/mental-health-treatment-plan
I don't live in Melbourne CBD but wold like to do Walk and Talk Therapy
I work with clients all over Australia, those who are interstate, in rural areas, or too far from Melbourne can still benefit from Walk and Talk Therapy.
I can be in my home while you walk in a safe area with your headset. The benefit of telehealth is that you can decided where you'd like to hold your session. There are restrictions, for safety. You can not be driving or walking around busy areas with lots of people and/or traffic. A quiet park, your own garden, the beach, these are all options. Safety and privacy first though. It is also important that you make this decision based on what you would like to talk about in our session. Some days it might be nice to walk, others perhaps you hold the session from the comfort and safety of your home.
The other option people chose is that we do Phone Counselling when you are at home and if you vixit Melbourne we can meet up for a Walk and Talk while you are here.
Do You offer Student or Pensioner discount?
Yes, please reach out if you are a student or a pensioner as I do offer a discount.
Can I provide counselling under the National Redress Scheme?
Yes. I am a registered provider for National Redress, Counselling and Psychological Care (CPC) Service Victoria. Please reach out if you need further information and we can apply for your counselling under the National Redress Scheme.
I am an approved Counsellor with NSW Victims Services.
I am also listed on the Trauma Support Providers Directory
Do you offer sessions through Victims of Crime?
I meet the requirements for Victorian Victims of Crime.
I am an approved Counsellor with NSW Victims Support.
I may meet the requirements for other states, I will seek confirm this on request.
I have a Self/Plan-Managed NDIS plan that includes Counselling - can I work with you?
Yes. As you Self/Plan Manage your NDIS plan you can choose your own counsellor.
I meet the requirements that NDIS have for unregistered Providers as I am a PACFA Registered Clinical Counsellor.
From the NDIS website - Unregistered providers can deliver supports and services to participants, except for those listed above. Only participants who self-manage or plan-manage their NDIS funding can choose to get supports and services from unregistered providers.
Can you provide Counselling Services to WorkSafe Victoria Injured Workers?
Yes, I am recognised by WorkSafe Victoria as a provider for counselling. If you have had counselling approved by WorkSafe Victoria, please contact me for more information. I'm here to support you through your healing journey.
Do I work with Couples?
No. I offer Individual counselling only.
If you are in Couple counselling with your partner- I can offer counselling to one member of a couple. Many people have their individual counsellor and then attend couple counselling with a separate counsellor.
Yoga - Do I have to be a counselling client to book Yoga - Healing Trauma sessions?
No.
You can, of course, have a Yoga- Healing Trauma session if you are already a counselling client, just as you can choose to attend counselling after as a Yoga - Healing Trauma client. These are separate bookings.
Some clients like to do a combination of Talk therapy and Yoga, others chose one over the other. The choice is always yours.
Yoga is perfect for those who are healing from trauma and also those who want to avoid burnout. Perhaps you work in a high stress workplace or are going through a stressful time in life and feel the Yoga may support you in a preventative way. Or maybe you are new to yoga and want to start with private classes. If you are unsure or have further questions please consider booking in a free 15 minute connection call so I can answer any questions you may have.
Do I have to have experience or be flexible to do Yoga with you?
No. All Yoga will be for you 'where you are' and there will be options for each person.
If you are wanting to do the Yoga - Healing Trauma these classes are designed to be accessible for everyone.
If you are wanting Private Classes each class will be designed for you.
Do I need Yoga Props or special clothing?
No.
We can use pillows, blankets, towels and other items you have around your home as props if needed.
All clothing is Yoga clothing if you can move freely and feel comfortable. I recommend wearing loose fitting, natural fibre, clothing, we can use blankets and towels to layer for temperature control.
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.