Frequently Asked Questions
Everythying you might want to know before we begin.
Still have questions? I’m happy to chat.
Q: What is holistic counselling?
Holistic counselling looks at you as a whole person — not just the challenge you’ve come in with. Where traditional counselling often focuses primarily on thoughts and behaviours, holistic counselling also considers your physical wellbeing, your emotional patterns, your relationships, and your spiritual or energetic health. We might use talk therapy alongside practices like meditation, breathwork, or mindfulness — whatever combination supports you best. The goal isn’t to fix one thing in isolation; it’s to help you find balance across all areas of your life.
Q: What's the difference between counselling and coaching?
Counselling tends to focus on healing — working through past experiences, processing emotions, and understanding patterns that may be holding you back. Coaching is more future-focused — setting goals, building clarity, and creating action plans to move forward. In practice, there’s often overlap, and I draw on both depending on what you need. Some sessions might be deeply reflective; others might be practical and goal-oriented. We follow what serves you.
Q: How is this different from seeing a psychologist?
Psychologists are trained in clinical psychology and can diagnose mental health conditions. They often work within specific therapeutic frameworks like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). As a holistic counsellor, I don’t diagnose — instead, I work with you to explore what’s happening in your life and support you in finding your own path forward. My approach blends traditional counselling techniques with holistic practices like energy work, meditation, and mindfulness. If you need a formal diagnosis or are experiencing severe mental health symptoms, a psychologist or psychiatrist may be more appropriate, and I’m happy to help you find the right referral.
Q: Do I need a referral to see you?
No referral is needed. You can book directly through my website whenever you’re ready.
Q: What happens in a first session?
The first session is really about getting to know each other. I’ll ask you about what’s brought you here, what’s happening in your life right now, and what you’re hoping to get from our work together. There’s no pressure to have all the answers — many people come in feeling unsure of where to start, and that’s completely okay. We’ll go at your pace, and by the end of the session, you’ll have a sense of whether this feels like the right fit for you.
Q: How many sessions will I need?
That depends entirely on you and what you’re working through. Some people come for a few sessions to work through a specific challenge; others work with me over several months as they navigate bigger life transitions. There’s no set number, and you’re never locked into a package. We’ll check in regularly about what’s working and what you need.
Q: Do you offer online sessions?
Yes, I offer sessions both in-person at Brightwater Wellness Hub on the Sunshine Coast and online via video call. Online sessions work beautifully for many people — especially if you’re juggling a busy schedule, prefer the comfort of your own space, or live outside the local area.
Q: Is what I share confidential?
Yes. Everything you share in session stays between us. The only exceptions are if I believe there’s a serious risk of harm to yourself or someone else, or if I’m legally required to disclose information (which is very rare). I’ll always be transparent with you about confidentiality and its limits.
Q: What should I do if I'm in crisis?
If you’re experiencing a mental health crisis or having thoughts of harming yourself, please reach out to a crisis support service immediately. In Australia, you can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 (24 hours) or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636. If you’re in immediate danger, call 000. I’m here to support you through ongoing challenges, but crisis situations need immediate professional support that I’m not equipped to provide between sessions.
Q: What are your fees?
Current session fees are listed on my booking page. I believe quality support should be accessible, so if cost is a barrier, please reach out — I’m happy to have a conversation about how we can structure sessions to support you financially.
Q: How do I know if you're the right fit for me?
The best way is to first book a free discovery chat and how it feels. The therapeutic relationship — the connection between us — matters more than any technique or qualification. If something in you is saying ‘yes, this might be it,’ trust that instinct. And if after a session you feel it’s not quite right, that’s okay too. Finding the right support is personal, and I’d rather you find the right fit than stay somewhere that doesn’t serve you.
Q: Do you work with teenagers?
Yes, I work with young people as well as adults. I hold a current Blue Card (Working with Children clearance QLD) and create a safe, judgement-free space for teens navigating the challenges of adolescence — whether that’s anxiety, identity, family dynamics, or just needing someone to talk to who isn’t a parent or teacher.
Q: Are your services limited to personal and individuals only?
Not at all! While I primarily work with individuals, I also see couples and can support multiple family members (separately). For couples, I find the best results come when each person is willing to work on themselves first — so I often recommend individual sessions before couples work. I also offer Business Consultation for professionals wanting clarity and growth. Strict confidentiality applies — nothing is ever shared between clients’ sessions.
Q: What if my partner/family member also sees you?
I’m happy to work with multiple members of the same family or relationship — each in their own individual sessions. What’s important to know is that I hold the strictest confidence: nothing from one person’s session is ever shared with another, even if you’re married or related. Each session belongs entirely to that person. This allows everyone to feel safe being completely honest.