FAQ

What is an Integrative Holistic Approach to Counselling?

At Empowering Minds Therapy, we view you as a whole person — not just a set of symptoms. Our integrative holistic counselling approach addresses your mental, emotional, physical, social, and spiritual well-being. Rather than focusing solely on a diagnosis or condition, we work with you to nurture balance, resilience, and growth in every area of life.

 

Do I need a referral or a Mental Health Care Plan?

No referral is needed — you can book directly with us without a GP or Mental Health Care Plan. While these plans are generally intended for Registered or Clinical Psychologists providing CBT-focused therapy under Medicare, our approach is different. At Empowering Minds Therapy, we integrate body and mind using over nine therapeutic modalities, creating a highly personalised experience designed to support healing at the root rather than just addressing surface symptoms.

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Do you provide health insurance rebates?

Yes! Empowering Minds Therapy is a Bupa Health Care Provider, and rebates may be available depending on your health insurance policy. Coverage can vary between providers and plans, so we recommend checking with your insurer to confirm your eligibility for counselling rebates.

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What can I expect at my first appointment?

Your first session is about connection and understanding. We’ll explore what has brought you to counselling, your goals, and your preferences. It’s normal to feel emotional or vulnerable, and this space is designed to be safe and supportive. Together, we’ll create a plan for moving forward.

Therapy may include:

• Traditional talk therapy

• Creative tools such as art or reflective drawing

• Somatic practices (breathwork, grounding, sensory tools)

• Worksheets and psychoeducation

• Spiritual and reflective approaches (where welcomed)

 

How many sessions will I need?

There’s no set number of sessions. Each journey is unique. Many people start with 4–6 sessions to build momentum, while others choose ongoing support for deeper exploration. We’ll collaborate to find the right frequency — weekly, fortnightly, or as needed.

Sessions are available in 60-minute or 90-minute formats to suit different preferences and needs.

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What payment options do you offer?

We accept:

• Cash [in person only]

• Direct deposit

• BPAY

• Debit or credit card

• Paypal - 4 split payments

Payment is required after each session. Discounted rates may be available for bulk pre-paid sessions, please ask if this interests you.

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Do you offer Telehealth or in-person sessions?

Yes. We provide counselling in person and via Telehealth (video or phone). Telehealth offers flexibility and accessibility, especially if you’re rural, unwell, or prefer the comfort of home.

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What is your cancellation policy?

We ask for 48 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule, to allow your appointment to be offered to someone else. Cancellations within this window may incur a fee equal to the missed session.

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If you’d like to switch your in-person appointment to Telehealth, please let us know at least 1 hour in advance — we’ll happily adjust.

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What makes Empowering Minds Therapy different?

• Holistic approach – blending emotional, physical, and spiritual care.

• Integrative methods – from traditional talk therapy to art, somatic, and reflective practices.

• Accessible & flexible – no referral required, affordable options available.

• Health insurance rebates – as a Bupa provider, some coverage may be available.

• Lived wisdom – informed by both professional training and personal testimony of resilience, healing, and growth.