1. What should I expect in a couples counselling session?

The usual process is that each person is listened to regarding their feelings and perspective on their relationship in a safe, non-judgmental environment. A couple’s counsellor will work collaboratively with the couple to find the right strategies that will help them to move forward. This could include breaking negative communication patterns and learning how to rebuild emotional connection, amongst other strategies depending on each couple’s unique situation. It is then important to have a follow-up session to see what has been working well, adjust and discuss any other issues that may involve further sessions.

2. Can you help a couple who have experienced infidelity or cheating in their relationship?

Yes, I have helped many couples who have experienced the aftermath of the discovery of infidelity or cheating by providing a non-judgmental and supportive approach to sift through the wide range of emotions and often the traumatic impact of cheating. I encourage couples to take their time with the process of healing and on the other side of that, there can be a much closer relationship than they had previously.

3. What is the success rate of couples counselling? 

In years gone by the success rate of couples counselling was around 50%, however, these days it is said to be up to 70% success rate, which is good news for couples. I recommend seeking help earlier rather than later, to gain the support and strategies needed to improve your relationship and prevent negative patterns of behaviour and communication.

4. Can I use my mental health care plan from my GP with a counsellor?

Unfortunately, counsellors are not permitted to see people with a mental health care plan where subsidised sessions with Medicare are provided. It can only be used with psychologists, psychiatrists, and clinical social workers. The waitlist to see these professionals is often three to six months or more, so counselling is a good interim. A myth associated with the mental health care plan is that the sessions are free, however, you will be required to pay a gap, so it is best to check what your out-of-pocket expense will be.

5. What is your availability, and do you have a wait list for individual counselling or couples counselling?

I am currently available at different times of the week, including after hours and Saturdays by appointment. Please contact me directly to discuss some days and times that suit you and I will do my best to accommodate your needs. 

6. Can couples counselling save my marriage?

Counselling provides a safe space for couples to share their feelings. This allows each person to learn different tools and strategies to adjust their behaviour, acknowledge each other’s feelings, learn better respect, how to build trust and improve intimacy. All of which can improve the relationship. Therefore, it is very possible that couples counselling can save a marriage.

7. How many counselling sessions will I need?

It really depends on what an individual or couple needs. A good guide to work on the main issue for an individual is one to three sessions and for couples is two to four sessions to work on the main issue. Keep in mind that counselling is a process that involves self-awareness, self-reflection and then putting into action any ideas, tools and strategies discussed. It is then good to visit your counsellor again as a way of following up on how you are feeling and what else you may need to help you move forward in life.

8. Can I use my NDIS funding for counselling?

Yes, if you have NDIS funding under Improved Daily Living, and are agency-managed, self-managed or plan-managed, you can access counselling. However, we are an unregistered provider of NDIS counselling support for only plan-managed and self-managed participants. Please contact Sonya directly for any enquiries about NDIS Counselling Supports. 

10. What if I don’t “click” with my counsellor?

If you don’t feel like you click or are comfortable with a counsellor, you could try giving it one more session to be sure or you can decide to search for another counsellor. All counsellors fully understand that they will not click with every person they see and there is no need to feel embarrassed if you need to find another counsellor. The main thing is that you do not give up on gaining the help you need.

11. Where are you located and what about parking?

I am in the Mariners Centre of Excellence building which is located at 1 Bryant Drive in Tuggerah. If heading south on Wyong Road, you turn left at the roundabout and then a quick right into the car park. If heading north on Wyong Road, you turn right at the roundabout and then a quick right into the car park. The building is almost directly opposite Bunnings Warehouse.

Car parking is available in the ‘visitors’ car parking area near the front of the building. Otherwise, you can park towards the left side of the building (facing on) near the soccer fields. Please allow extra time before your appointment to allow for parking.
Once you enter the building, go to Level 5 in the lift and then turn left as you leave the lift, and walk down to suite 504. There is an iPad in the foyer where you can click on my logo to let me know you have arrived.