Frequently Asked Questions

We at Embark believe that counselling is a process that involves connecting with a client so that the therapist can hear and understand their concerns.

The client always remains the expert, as nobody else in the room knows better what’s going on for them.

We believe that as the client is able to understand their feelings, thoughts and behavior and make sense of what is going on for them, they are better equipped to make decisions for themselves.

Sometimes a slight shift in perspective is all that is needed and can be ‘the difference that makes the difference’.

Other times this difference is achieved over a longer period of time.

And so counselling is not about giving advice, but rather partnering with the client to explore options and other ways of thinking and behaving, and assisting them with implementing these changes.

Hopefully clients then gain a greater sense of well being.

At Embark we believe that it is our responsibility to create an environment where the client feels safe and able to share their concerns. Safety is essential to the healing process and includes these elements:

• To listen in a way that is respectful and non-judgmental
• To develop a rapport with the client
• To believe what we hear
• To maintain confidentiality (this is expanded below)
• To move forward at a pace that is manageable for the client
• To work within our area of expertise and refer where appropriate.

We value confidentiality. Whatever is shared with the therapist during your sessions remains confidential.

However, if there is a risk of harm to the client or another, others may need to be informed. This will be discussed with you at the beginning of the counselling process.

Confidentiality is a critical element in establishing a safe environment for the client. At Embark we adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics and Practice, 2013.

The length of therapy varies and will depend on the concern and the individual or couple. Counselling does not have to be a long-term undertaking, but rather a specific intervention for a specific concern. We usually contract with our clients for an initial 6 sessions, followed by a review and joint discussion on how to move forward. This may involve further counselling.

At Embark our door is always open should other concerns arise further along the journey that may require a return to counselling. Some clients view this in a similar way to a car getting maintenance checks for optimal performance.

Once you engage in the counselling process the frequency of sessions will be discussed, be it once a fortnight or other options as suitable.

Your time is precious and so is ours. At times session cancellation is unavoidable. We kindly request a notification of 24 hours in order to prevent a cancellation fee, so that we may fill your vacancy.

The decision to terminate counselling is arrived at by both the client and the therapist. Discussion about termination and planning for it occur as the counselling process draws to an end, and prior to the final session.

However, a client is free to terminate the counselling process at any time. It is recommended that the client and therapist discuss this so that other options can be presented for the client to move forward.

An eclectic approach is used for individual clients, which may draw on CBT, Narrative and Client-Centred therapies, as well as other modalities, as appropriate.

For couples and families a Systems Theory modality is preferred.

As of Jan 2016 fees for counselling are:

• Individual sessions  $130.00
• Couple sessions  $150.00
• Family sessions  $150.00

These prices are in Australian Dollars.

Payment methods accepted are direct transfer, credit card via Paypal, cash and cheque.

Payment from overseas clients can be made via Paypal.

Supervision is offered for individuals. Group supervision is also available. Price on application