Is what I share in session confidential?

Everything that is shared with me is confidential and kept in a secure location, with the exception of:

• Information shared that indicates yourself, or others, are in imminent risk of harm.

• When legal requirements demand that confidential material be revealed, in which case the client would be notified prior to the release of information.

• When a child, youth or vulnerable adult is in need of protective intervention.

• If you engage the services of other organisations, in which case I will seek your permission in writing as to what you agree to share.

What will happen in Counselling?

Counselling is a safe environment to unload, talk and feel there is no judgement. You are in the driving seat. You are the expert of your own life. I will not tell you what to do. I may make suggestions for your consideration, or you can request input, but any decision you make is a decision you must feel comfortable with.

During your first session you will work with me to complete an intake form that outlines your concerns and what you would like to achieve from Counselling. I will also discuss the terms and conditions of the Counselling Contract. Counselling will not proceed unless you fully understand and agree to the terms of the Counselling Contract. From there we will develop a Counselling Plan.

In subsequent sessions we will discuss your concerns in more detail, we will identify your strengths and resources and implement strategies you are comfortable with, to enable you to work towards achieving your goals.

Sessions are voluntary and you can begin, terminate or reschedule sessions at any point, as long as you give more than 48 hours notice.

I will check in with you regularly for feedback. If at any time you are unsure of, or uncomfortable with any information shared or techniques suggested, please let me know. I want to ensure you are comfortable at all times.

Are you covered by Insurance?

Chat It Out have an active Professional Indemnity Insurance policy in place.

Are any health subsidies applicable?

You do not need a Mental Health Plan, nor do you require a referral from a GP to make an appointment with Chat it Out.

Chat it Out fees are not claimable from Medicare or from Health Care Providers, however the cost to see a Counsellor is comparable to the average gap fee payable under a Mental Health Care Plan., if you were to see a Psychologist or a Clinical Psychologist.

Appointments with Chat it Out are not recorded in your “My Health Record”.

The current rebate in 2023 from Medicare for psychologists is between $89 and up to $131 for clinical psychologists, however the Australian Psychological Societies recommended session fee is $280 which means you may be out of pocket for between $130 – $190 

My current rate for individual counselling is $100 inc GST/hour (adult) and $80 inc GST/hour (youth) which is comparable or less than the gap payment generally charged by a psychologist. 

 I also hold two weekly subsidised spots in my books at $66 inc GST (45 minute session) for individuals experiencing financial hardship.

Are you affiliated with any Professional Organisations?

I am a member of the Australian Counselling Association. To maintain my Membership I must abide by their Code of Conduct and Ethics, ensure I meet annual Professional Development and Supervision requirements.

What records will you keep?

With your permission, I will take notes to keep track of our progress and record your goals. I will keep computer records secure and password protected. These records can only be accessed by myself.

You are able to view any records I keep in your personal file, upon request.

Are your a registered NDIS Provider?

Chat it Out is not a registered provider with the NDIS. Chat it Out can service Self-Managed and Plan Managed participants. Chat it Out is unable to service Agency Managed clients (managed by NDIS) directly, however we welcome a collaboration discussion with your Registered Quality Support Service Provider about subcontracting our services.

Chat it Out has a NDIS Worker Clearance, Working with Children Check and current Police Check.