Welcome to Willow Tree Counselling

Both psychologists and counsellors play vital roles in supporting mental health and wellbeing, though their qualifications and areas of focus differ. Psychologists undertake extensive university studies and must meet strict regulatory requirements. They are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat a broad range of mental health conditions, and can offer specialist assessments and sometimes collaborate on medication management alongside GPs.

Counsellors, on the other hand, often hold bachelor’s or even master’s degrees, focusing primarily on providing a safe, supportive space for clients to explore personal challenges. While counsellors may not diagnose medical conditions, they are highly skilled in talk therapy, practical support, and relationship-building—often meeting clients where they are and helping them navigate life’s difficulties without the clinical formality that can sometimes accompany psychological assessments. Australian counsellors are also committed to ongoing professional development and supervision, ensuring high standards of client care.

Ultimately, whether you choose a psychologist or a counsellor, the most important factor is how comfortable and supported you feel. The therapeutic relationship itself is a key part of the healing process, so trust and rapport are just as vital as qualifications. For many Australians, counsellors offer accessible, empathetic support that meets a wide range of personal and emotional needs.

Unfortunately, Medicare does not currently recognise counsellors for Medicare rebates; however, some private insurance providers will.

Something to consider, you may find the gap between medicare rebate and the psychologist's fees is similar to a counsellor's fees.

Yes, your counselling session is both private and confidential. As a counsellor, I am committed to following the Code of Ethics set by the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) as well as all relevant federal and state laws. Everything you share with me will be treated with the utmost respect and confidentiality.

There are only very rare circumstances where I may be required to share information, such as:

·       If you or someone else is at risk of harm.

·       If I am legally obliged to provide information by a court.

If any of these situations arise, I will always do my best to discuss this with you and keep you informed. We’ll also talk through confidentiality in more detail during our first session, and you’ll have plenty of time to ask questions or raise any concerns you may have. Your comfort and trust are very important to me.

It's completely understandable to feel hesitant about trying therapy again after a previous experience that didn’t meet your needs. There are many reasons why counselling may not have worked in the past—sometimes it’s about the approach used, the dynamic between you and the therapist, or just not feeling fully understood. These experiences, although quite common, can understandably make you cautious, but they are not a reflection of your worth or your ability to make positive changes.

Every counselling experience is unique because every therapist brings their own approach and perspective, just as every client brings their own story and preferences. The connection between you and your counsellor is a crucial part of the process, and sometimes it takes a few tries to find the right fit. This new attempt could offer just the support and understanding you need, especially if you’re seeking someone whose approach resonates more personally with you.

If you’re considering giving it another try, I offer a free 15-minute session. This gives you the chance to ask questions, get a sense of my approach, and decide if it feels like a good match—without any obligation to continue. Your comfort and sense of safety matter, and this initial chat is simply an opportunity for us to see if working together might be helpful for you.

You deserve a supportive space where you feel valued and truly listened to. Your well-being is important and giving therapy another chance may open doors to healing and growth, even if past experiences have made you feel uncertain. If you’re willing, I’d be honoured to work alongside you as you explore what’s possible for your journey ahead.

It’s completely normal to wonder what to expect and how long the process might take. Counselling is a collaborative experience where we’ll work together to explore your thoughts, feelings, hopes, and experiences within a safe, respectful, and non-judgmental space.

Each session typically lasts around 50 to 55 minutes, giving us enough time to focus on your concerns and progress toward your goals. The overall length of counselling varies for each individual, as everyone’s needs and pace are unique. Some clients find support in just a few sessions, while others find ongoing support helpful over a longer period.

Throughout our time together, we will regularly review your progress and adjust our approach to suit what’s best for you. My priority is to ensure you always feel heard, respected, and supported. Your willingness to take this step is admirable, and I am here to support you every step of the way.