FAQ

What is an Integrative Holistic Approach to Counselling?

At Empowering Minds Therapy, we see you as a whole person — not just a set of symptoms. Our integrative holistic counselling approach nurtures your mental, emotional, physical, social, and spiritual well-being. Rather than focusing solely on a diagnosis, we work with you to cultivate balance, resilience, and growth in every area of life. Using over nine therapeutic modalities, we tailor each session to support healing at the root, addressing underlying patterns rather than just surface-level concerns.

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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 Medicare-focused plans are typically designed for Registered or Clinical Psychologists offering CBT, our approach is different: we integrate mind and body, offering a highly personalised therapy experience that meets you where you are.

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Do You Provide Health Insurance Rebates?

Yes! Empowering Minds Therapy is a Bupa, Medibank, and ahm provider, meaning rebates may be available depending on your policy. Coverage varies between providers and plans, so we recommend checking with your insurer to confirm your eligibility for counselling rebates.

 

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 preferences

• How you’d like therapy to support your growth

 

It’s normal to feel emotional or vulnerable, and this space is designed to be safe, supportive, and non-judgmental. Together, we’ll create a plan tailored to your needs.

Therapy may include:

• Traditional talk therapy

• Creative tools, such as art or reflective drawing or music

• 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 available)

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. Counselling is available 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.

 

What is Your Cancellation Policy?

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

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

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What Makes Empowering Minds Therapy Different?

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

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

• Accessible & flexible – no referral required, with Telehealth and in-person options

• Health insurance rebates – Bupa, Medibank, and ahm providers

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