Questions people ask

How much does counselling cost?

A one-hour session is $90 and a half-hour session is $50. The introductory session is always free — that one's about working out whether I'm the right fit for you, not about charging you for the privilege.

If cost is a real barrier, bring it up in the introductory session. I'd rather talk about it honestly than have it stop you from getting support, and we can sometimes agree on an alternative fee.

RPG therapy groups are $3000 for an 11-week programme for up to 8 participants, billed to the host organisation.

How long are sessions?

Individual sessions are either half an hour or one hour, depending on what works for you. Your introductory session will always be a full hour so there's enough time to properly get to know you and the things that matter in your life.

RPG therapy group sessions run for 2 hours each.

What is the cancellation policy?

Life happens. I only ask that you let me know as early as possible. Because of the cost of booking a room and holding time in my schedule, cancellations within 72 hours will incur a 50% fee, and same-day cancellations or no-shows will incur 100% of the fee.

Can I use WINZ, EAP, or other funding for counselling?

I'm not currently registered with any official funders, so it would be at the organisation's discretion whether or not they would approve funding to attend sessions with me.

Where does counselling take place?

I'm based in Nelson but I don't have a permanent room — my current demand means I book a space once you request a session. If you have mobility or travel limitations, let me know when you get in touch and I'll do my best to find somewhere that works for you.

Do you offer online sessions?

Yes. Sessions are available in person in Nelson, or online to anyone anywhere in New Zealand.

What happens in the first session?

The first session is a full hour, and it's free. It's really about both of us working out whether I'm the right counsellor for you — no pressure, no commitment. You can read more about what to expect at your first session.

Do I need a referral to see a counsellor?

No, you don't need any referral to see me.

I've never been to counselling before — is that okay?

That is more than fine. It may take you a bit to find your way, but counselling is mostly just having chats with a bit more structure. Any activities will be fully explained, and I'll work with you every step of the way.

How many counselling sessions will I need?

There's no right answer to this one. Some people need a little support and will be able to find their way on their own after a few sessions. Some people will need assistance on and off for many years.

Is counselling confidential?

Practising under the New Zealand Association of Counsellors Code of Ethics, all information shared with a counsellor is private except when there is a real and immediate risk of harm to yourself or others, or when certain legal obligations are met. Examples of these legal obligations are:

• When ordered by a court
• When requested as part of an anti-terrorism investigation
• When the well-being of a child is in question
• When family violence risk is being assessed

In all cases the need to disclose would be discussed with you unless that is highly likely to increase risk.

There's more detail in the privacy notice.

What does NZAC student membership mean?

It means I've elected to join the New Zealand Association of Counsellors (NZAC) while still in a recognised study programme. This gives me access to opportunities for training and supervision through the NZAC, and the membership comes with some official expectations around following the association's rules and code of ethics.