• If you feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to move forward, counselling can be a valuable source of support. It helps rebuild self-esteem, process emotions, and navigate challenges such as trauma, abuse, and life transitions.

  • Counsellors focus on providing emotional support, coping strategies, and guidance through personal challenges.

    Psychologists often provide therapy as well but may also conduct assessments and diagnoses.

    Counselling can be just as effective for many mental health concerns, especially if you are looking for a supportive space to process your experiences.

  • No, you do not need a doctor’s referral to book a session with me.

  • As a counsellor, I do not prescribe medication. If you need medication, I recommend speaking with your GP or a psychiatrist.

 Find Answers with Our FAQ

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Online & In-Person Sessions

  • I use Zoom for online sessions, which I find to be a comfortable and effective platform for therapy.

    For online sessions, please ensure you have:

    • Aquiet, comfortable, and private space

    • A stable internet connection

    • A microphone and webcam

    These are essential for a smooth therapy experience.

  • Technology can be unpredictable! If we experience technical difficulties during a Zoom session:

    Minor disruptions – I'll send you a new Zoom link via email/SMS, and we'll reconnect quickly.

    Major issues – If we can't resolve the problem, we can switch to a phone session to continue, or we can reschedule at no charge.

    Lost session time – If we lose significant time due to technical issues (more than 10-15 minutes), I'll either extend the session or credit you for the lost time.

    I'll always do my best to ensure you get the full value of your session, regardless of technical hiccups.

  • This depends on your needs. Some people prefer weekly sessions, while others find fortnightly sessions more suitable. If you need more frequent sessions for a period, we can discuss options that work for both of us.

  • There is no set number of sessions—it depends on the nature of your concerns, how long they have been present, and how supported you feel outside of counselling. The first session will help us determine what might be most helpful for you.

  • It’s normal to feel nervous before your first session. You don’t need to prepare anything specific, but it might help to reflect on what’s bringing you to counselling and what you’d like to gain from it.

  • I work from an office located at 203 Poath Road, Murrumbeena, Melbourne, VIC 3163.

    There is plenty of free parking available, and the nearest train station is Hughesdale Station (on the Cranbourne/Pakenham line), which is approximately a 5-minute walk from the office.

  • The first session is all about getting to know you and understanding what's brought you to counselling. Here's what to expect:

    Getting comfortable – We'll start by making sure you feel safe and at ease in the space.

    Sharing your story – You can tell me as much or as little as you feel comfortable sharing about what's been going on for you.

    Understanding your goals – We'll talk about what you'd like to achieve through counselling and what support might look like for you.

    Discussing confidentiality – I'll explain how confidentiality works and answer any questions you have.

    Going at your pace – There's no pressure to share everything in the first session. We'll move at a pace that feels right for you.

    The first session is also a chance for you to see if I'm the right fit for your needs. It's okay if you need time to decide whether you'd like to continue.

Confidentiality & Safety

  • Yes. Everything shared in therapy is strictly confidential, except in these circumstances:

    1. If there is a risk of harm to yourself or others

    2. If your information is subpoenaed by a court

    As a member of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA), I follow strict ethical guidelines.

  • In rare cases of a medical emergency, I may request your GP details. If there is a psychological or emotional crisis, I would seek your permission before contacting your nominated emergency contact.

  • No, counselling is a safe and confidential space. You are in control of what steps (if any) you choose to take. I will not report abuse to the police unless there is an immediate risk to a child’s safety or a legal obligation.

  • It’s completely normal to get emotional in therapy. This is a safe space where you can express your feelings without judgment. You won’t be rushed, and we’ll go at a pace that feels comfortable for you.

  • No, I do not record any counselling sessions, whether online or in-person. Your privacy and confidentiality are paramount.

    I also ask that you do not record sessions without my explicit consent. Counselling works best when both of us feel safe and able to speak freely.

    If you'd like to take notes during or after our session to help you remember key points, that's absolutely fine.

  • Generally, counselling sessions are one-on-one to create a safe, confidential space. However, in some circumstances (such as relationship work or if you need additional support), we can discuss including someone in a session. Please reach out to talk through what would be most helpful for your situation.

Fees & Payment

  • The number of sessions depends on:

    • The nature and intensity of your concerns

    • Your level of external support

    • Your personal goals for therapy

    Our first session will help clarify your needs.

    • $150 per session

    I also offer a sliding scale for those experiencing financial hardship. Fees typically range from $90-$120, depending on circumstances. Please contact me to discuss options. I want to make counselling accessible to you.

  • No, Medicare does not currently cover counselling services. However, this means you don’t need a Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) from your GP, allowing your sessions to remain completely confidential.

  • If finances are a barrier, I encourage you to reach out. I offer a sliding scale to make counselling accessible to those in need.

Trauma & Domestic Violence Support

  • Yes. Counselling can provide a safe and non-judgmental space to explore your feelings, increase your safety, and regain confidence in making decisions that feel right for you.

  • Trauma can show up in many ways, such as:

    • Anxiety, panic attacks, or difficulty trusting others

    • Feeling numb, detached, or struggling with emotions

    • Repeating unhealthy relationship patterns

    If any of this resonates with you, counselling can help you process and heal from past experiences.

  • Yes! Therapy is a personal journey, and it’s important that you feel comfortable with your therapist. If you feel I’m not the right fit, I completely respect that and can help you find another counsellor if needed.

Bookings & Cancellations

  • You can book a session by:


    📞 Calling 0452 285 526
    📧 Emailing kat@safespacecounsellingservices.com.au
    💻 Filling out the contact form on my website

    Before your first session, we will have a brief chat to ensure I’m the right fit for your needs.

    • 48 hours’ notice required for cancellations.

    • Less than 24 hours’ notice = No refund (exceptions may be considered for emergencies).

    I do understand that emergencies happen, so exceptions may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

  • Yes. I hold both a National Police Check and a Working with Children Check for your peace of mind.

  • I aim to respond to all enquiries within 24-48 hours. If you haven't heard from me within this timeframe, please feel free to follow up; sometimes emails can go astray!

About Counselling & My Approach