Regardless of age, social class, or wealth, pretty much everybody will need counselling at some stage of their lives. Whether it is admitted or not, people need to talk to somebody and express themselves freely so they can move forward.
But there is the real issue of cost to account for. The people who need counselling services the most are often the ones who can least afford them. On the flip side, our counsellors take note of this and can tailor the number of sessions, and offer payment plans. We also offer Afterpay as an alternative.
Counselling is an opportunity to discuss issues that are causing concern in a supportive, respectful and confidential environment.
We are able to offer support in person or online. People can attend counselling as individuals, couples, or as a family. Counselling for children is also available.
Matters discussed include couple issues, relationship breakdown, parenting, domestic violence, anxiety, depression, grief, sexual issues, childhood sexual abuse, stress and conflict in various situations including work-related conflicts.
What will it cost?
We are a not-for-profit community organisation and not funded by the government, so fees are normally charged. However, we do try to make our services as affordable as possible.
Our fees for counselling are $50 or $30 for concession card holders or online sessions for a 1 hour counselling session. Financial Members will receive their first session FREE. Payment is required at the time of counselling.
No referral is required. Waiting times for an appointment vary according to the current level of demand and your availability.
Do you provide services over the phone or online?
Generally counselling face-to-face is most effective. However, we realise that sometimes you may not be able to visit our location. In this case, you can book our online service which will be conducted via Zoom.
What is the difference between a psychologist and a counsellor?
A counsellor will essentially provide a safe environment where the individual can come to terms with issues and resolve them. This is done using a range of techniques. A psychologist does the same things but goes a step further. They work with people who have severe mental difficulties and they are trained to understand how the mind works. They use more specialised assessments and diagnose complex mental disorders.
Psychology Services
Psychology services will typically cost a bit more than counselling services. This is because psychologists deal with more specialised conditions. We offer a wide range of psychological assessments
A 50% deposit is required on the day of your appointment and the total must be paid in full before you receive your report. Payment plans are available if required. We also offer Afterpay as an alternative.
Please note: As of the 1st July 2023 our prices will be increasing.
ADHD Assessment
Introductory Price: $100 + $20 for report writing.
From 1st July 2023: $250 + 40 for report writing
Autism Assessment
Introductory Price: $100
From 1st July 2023: $250
Cancellation Fees
Please provide more than 48 hours notice on business days* in order to avoid cancellation fees. If cancellation occurs within 2 business days of the appointment then a cancellation fee will apply. A cancellation fee will be applied if the client is late by more than 15 minutes to an appointment
Cancelled with less than 48 hours but more than 24 hours (on business days) = $50
Cancelled with less than 24 hours notice (on business days) = $30
No show = Full cost of the session
Client Privacy and Confidentiality
Invisible Illnesses Inc is committed to protecting the privacy of the information that we collect about you during your time with our service. We make sure that when we collect, use, store and share your personal information and respond to your requests to access and correct it, we comply with the Privacy Act 1998 and the Australian Privacy Principles (APP’s).
About Debbie
Debbie is a positive, patient and adaptable person who has spent 30 years working with children from various socio-economic and cultural backgrounds as well as various disabilities in a volunteering position. She has training in Indigenous Culture as well as having Indigenous family on both sides of her family.
Debbie has her provisional licence for Psychology. This means that she is able to help with referrals.
Qualifications
Bachelor of Behaviour (Psychology)
Graduate Diploma in Psychology
Certificate of Recognition – Positive Behavioural Management
NDIS Worker Orientatation Certificate
NDIS Support Effective Communication Certificate
Parenting Partners Introduction to Positive Behaviour Support Certificate
Certificate of Completion:
Grief Healing
Solution Focused Therapy
Counselling Children and Adolescents
Addiction and Mental Health (Dual Diagnosis) Integrative
Understanding and Working with Autistic Clients in Therapy
Psychology and Therapy of Addictions
Domestic Violence Response Training
