Both counselling and psychology support people's mental health and wellbeing, and many people benefit from either or both at different stages of life. Counsellors and psychologists often use the same evidence-based therapeutic approaches but the key difference is that psychologists are trained to assess and diagnose mental health conditions, whereas counselling doesn’t involve formal diagnosis. Instead, counselling places a strong focus on the therapeutic relationship, helping you understand your thoughts, emotions, behaviours and relationships, while developing practical strategies for change, whether or not you have a diagnosis.

If you're unsure which type of support is right for you, it often comes down to your individual needs and goals. If a formal assessment or diagnosis would be helpful, I can help connect you with a suitable professional.

You don't need to be in crisis, or have a diagnosis to benefit from counselling. Many people seek counselling because they want to understand themselves better, or because they're moving through a season of life that requires some extra support.

You can book directly with Solea without a GP or other professional referral. However, you may be referred to us by another health provider.

The first session is an opportunity to get to know each other. We'll talk through what has brought you to counselling, what you're hoping to gain from it, and any background that's useful for me to understand. There's no expectation to share everything at once; we move at a pace that feels right for you. By the end, we'll usually have a clear sense of how we'll work together going forward.

Counselling services are not currently rebated by Medicare.

Yes, I am able to support NDIS clients who are self-managed or have a plan manager.

To make counselling more accessible, I offer a sliding scale depending on your circumstances. Rates are provided on initial enquiry. A limited number of concession places are available at my discretion for those experiencing genuine financial hardship - if this applies to you, mention it when you first get in touch.

A minimum of 24 hours' notice is required to cancel or reschedule. Cancellations with less than 24 hours' notice, and missed appointments, are charged the full session fee.

Exceptional circumstances: Life doesn't always go to plan, and genuine emergencies do happen. In these situations, I may consider a fee waiver - please reach out as soon as you're able to let me know. Waivers aren't guaranteed and are assessed individually, with repeated requests unlikely to qualify. The full fee applies unless a waiver has been agreed.

Sessions run for 50 minutes. The frequency depends on your individual circumstances - weekly or fortnightly sessions are common initially, moving to less frequent check-ins as things progress.

Yes. What you share in session is treated as confidential and is not discussed with anyone else without your consent. Session notes are kept securely and are not shared with third parties unless required.

Confidentiality has legal limits: I'm required to disclose information if there's a serious and imminent risk to your safety or someone else's, if I'm subpoenaed, or if I'm legally obligated to report certain matters (such as harm to a child). Where safe and appropriate to do so, I'll discuss this with you first. The confidentiality agreement is discussed at intake and in the first session.

It’s not uncommon for someone to feel that a counsellor isn’t quite the right fit. Finding someone you feel comfortable with can take time. If I’m not the right match for you or the support you need falls outside my speciality, then I can help you find someone who feels right for you.