Frequently Asked Questions
What does affirming care mean?
To give a brief overview, using an affirming framework means placing the individual as the expert in their life and valuing their unique identity and experiences. For individuals who are LGBTIQAP+, this means acceptance of all identities and relationships, and creating a safe space to explore this, judgment free.
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A neurodiversity affirming framework means acceptance of the diversity of brains and opposing using therapy as a tool to eliminate traits of neurodiversity. Neurodiversity is not inherently viewed as disabling, and instead a social model of disability is applied where it is the expectations and lack of accomodations in society for neurodivergent folks that is viewed as disabling.
Do you have to write to my GP? What do you tell them about our sessions?
If you see me and receive a Medicare rebate, there are certain reporting requirements that must be met, such as writing to your GP after a particular number of sessions. This doesn't mean that I tell them everything that we have spoken about but is a summary of key issues, such as symptoms you may be experiencing and treatment approaches used.
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Outside of reporting requirements, your sessions are generally confidential unless you have given me express permission to speak with someone else, with some exceptions such as mandatory reporting requirements.
How long is your waitlist?
This is a question I wish I could give a simple answer to! Unfortunately I can't give a clear answer to this, as it will frequently vary. I will generally only take on new clients when I have capacity to give them the frequency of sessions they are wanting.
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Currently my waitlist is closed to new therapy clients and at this stage, there is no clear date as to when it will open.
Do you provide supervision to other health professionals?
I sure do! Happy to have a chat about your needs, please contact me to have a discussion.
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Please note that as present point I do not provide ongoing supervision for the 4+2 or 5+1 program for provisional psychologists.
I'm not sure if you're the right fit. How can I find out more?
That's a very valid question! If you're still not sure after reading my profile, you can either send me an email or I can offer a 15 minute phone call to answer any further questions you might have. You can also book an initial session, there is no obligation to continue on if you don't feel like I'm the right fit. This is very common and sometimes you have to try a few people before you find someone that's right for you.
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It's very normal for it to take at least a few sessions (and for some people, even longer) to feel comfortable in therapy- consider that you are meeting a complete stranger for the first time and often talking about difficult topics! If I'm not the right fit after a few sessions, I may also be able to provide some referral options for you.
Do your cats ever come to visit?
Unfortunately not in clinic at this point! While my cats love people, unfortunately I sometimes have clients who may have allergies or other reasons that would make it unsafe for them to be around. Occasionally they may pop in during a Telehealth session if I'm working from home!
What if I've stopped therapy and want to come back?
This absolutely happens from time to time, for a variety of reasons. If you've had to stop coming to therapy, you are always welcome back! Likewise, it is very common for people to cease therapy when doing well, but then come back if they've had a major life event happen, or even just want a check in. Depending on how long it's been since I last saw you and my current client numbers, I may be able to see you quite quickly, however sometimes it may it may mean having to be placed on a cancellation or wait list.
What is your cancellation policy?
I ask that you give me at least 24 hours notice if you are unable to attend your appointment, and cancellation fees may apply with less than 8 hours notice. I usually have a cancellation list and this means I can offer the space to someone waiting. However, I understand that sometimes life can be unpredictable and things may come up that are unavoidable, and I don't want people to feel they are being punished for not attending, so please call or email the practice as soon as you become aware that you can't make it.
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If I notice there has been a number of last minute cancellations or failure to attend appointments, I may ask for a deposit before booking a new appointment with me.
What's your favourite dinosaur?
My favourite dinosaur is the Protoceratops