Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the service for?
Counselling services are available to any adult (18+) in Australia who is seeking individualised support. We offer one-on-one sessions where experienced practitioners will talk with you via Telehealth (video conferencing). Common issues that may be addressed in counselling sessions include: feelings of depression or anxiety, workplace or financial stress, parenting or family concerns etc.
Can I claim on Medicare?
Most counselling sessions are not covered by Medicare. Where a practitioner is registered for Medicare rebates this will be noted in the booking information.
Where does the money go?
The service is a social enterprise whereby profits are redirected to support Friends for Good’s free services to assist people experiencing loneliness. For more information about the work we do, read more here: Education & Awareness, Service Provision, Wellbeing and Research.
What are the qualifications of the practitioners?
All our practitioners have qualifications and extensive experience in Counselling and are registered with either the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW), Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA) or Australian Counselling Association (ACA), the national peak bodies.
What qualifications do the students have?
All students are undertaking Counselling studies and are conducting sessions with this service to fulfil their placement requirements. They are screened and selected by their universities who also provide clinical supervision. In addition, the universities ensure that the students are suitable to provide these counselling sessions.
What if I need to cancel an appointment?
We understand that circumstances can change. If you need to cancel your appointment, please notify us with at least 24 hours notice and a full refund will be processed. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.
Will my information be kept private and confidential?
All client data is securely stored on our client portal. The content of counselling sessions will remain strictly confidential (unless a practitioner is legally required to disclose information) and are conducted following ethical guidelines.
How do the telehealth sessions work?
You will be sent an access link before your appointment. You won’t need to download any additional software and only need to click the link to be joined into the meeting room with your Counsellor. If you would prefer not to use video or have an unstable internet connection, the session can be run via the same link with audio only.
Do you conduct face-to-face sessions?
All our counselling sessions are currently provided via telehealth, we do not provide face-to-face sessions.
What time are you open?
We have sessions across the week from 9am to 7pm. Please click the “Book Now” link to see available upcoming sessions.
Who can I contact if I have feedback or a complaint?
Please contact us via email.
Who can I contact for more information?
You can call us on 9691 6300 or contact us via email if you require further information.