Frequently Asked Questions
Below is a list of administrative points related to my practice. Understanding these ahead of the meeting/s helps best utilise the consultation time.
What happens in the first appointment?
This is the first appointment you book. It is an opportunity to present the issues you would like my help with and to meet me and experience my style of working. You are welcome to ask any questions, including those that would clarify how consultations with me can help you with the issues you have presented.
How often are sessions, and how long are they?
Emotional and mental health concerns, and personal or relationship issues at home or workplace, even when seemingly minor, typically require an on-going attention over a period of time. Following the Introductory Consultation, I can offer regular weekly or fortnightly appointments to successfully deal with such concerns or issues. Consultations are held at a pre-arranged specific day and time, each week (or fortnight). This appointment time is available to you on an on-going basis and is not offered to anyone else.
The more regularly you attend to issues the easier the work and the better the results. However, if you wish to meet at an interval greater than one or two weeks, meet sporadically, or need flexibility of appointment times, you are welcome to book each such appointment separately, subject to availability.
In any case, attending the Introductory Consultation does not oblige you to book further appointment/s.
Consultations are 50 minutes long. To fully use the appointment, please arrive on time as I am unable to prolong appointments (due to further commitments).
How much does counselling cost?
Each session is 50 minutes and costs $160, payable at the time of the appointment by cash or internet banking.
What is your cancellation policy?
All missed appointments are charged for unless notified at least 24hrs in advance.
Cancellations within 24hrs are charged at 50% fee.
Non-notified non-attendance is charged at full fee.
Do you send appointment reminders?
No appointment reminders are sent out so, please take care of noting down / remembering your appointment time.
Can I review progress or stop sessions?
Consultations are meant as an open-ended arrangement. Please feel free to speak to me at any one time if you would like to review progress or if you are considering or want to terminate consultations. Please give minimum a week’s notice of termination, if possible.
How quickly will you reply to my enquiry?
Business hours are 9am-6pm Monday to Friday. I may not be able to respond to communication received outside of these hours until the next business day. I respond asap, typically within a few hours of receiving your communication.
Is what I share confidential?
All personal details and any notes taken are confidential, but confidentiality may be breached in case of a perceived high risk to safety of yourself (the client) or others. Notes are stored electronically under double password protection. Please note however the inherent risks associated with electronically held data. Please speak to me if you may be uncomfortable about notes being taken and stored.
What should I do in a crisis or emergency?
We are not equipped to attend to emergency situations. For scheduling appointments, at least a day's notice is needed.
In case of an immediate concern for your personal safety at any one time please contact an emergency Mental Health provider or the Police. For current details and contact information on the available services, see this webpage: www.mentalhealth.org.nz
For clients with ideation or a history of personal harm (by oneself or other/s, or to other/s), it is a good idea to have these contact details handy. If this applies to you, we can speak in more detail about the options available.
Can I request a different arrangement?
If you might like to propose an alternative arrangement to any of those stipulated above, or would like to discuss/clarify anything, please feel free to speak to me at any time.
What is the difference between counselling and psychotherapy?
Counselling usually focuses on a specific, present-day issue and tends to be shorter term. Psychotherapy works at a deeper level, looking at long-standing patterns so that change lasts. I am trained in both, so we can work at whatever depth suits your situation.
Should I see a counsellor, a psychotherapist or a psychologist?
It often matters less which title someone holds and more about their training and experience. I am a registered psychotherapist (PBANZ) and an overseas-registered psychologist with over 30 years of experience, so I can help with both everyday concerns and deeper, longer-standing difficulties.
Do you offer online counselling?
Yes. Alongside in-person sessions in Massey, I offer online counselling by video to clients throughout New Zealand and overseas. Couples counselling is offered online.
Where are you based, and do you cover West Auckland?
My practice is on Don Buck Road, Massey. I see clients from across West Auckland, including West Harbour, Kumeu, Hobsonville and Riverhead, and online across New Zealand.
How do I book, and do you offer a free intro call?
You can book directly using the booking calendar on this website. If you would prefer a quick chat first, message me for a free 15-minute introductory call to see whether I am the right fit.
Can I get help with the cost of counselling?
Some people receiving a Work and Income benefit may qualify for funded counselling through the disability allowance. If that might apply to you, get in touch and we can talk it through. The first session is paid as normal while any funding is arranged.