Authentic You - Guidance & FAQ Resources
Helping You Find Clarity
This resource serves as a gentle introduction to your healing journey. We will explore your specific goals and worries at a rhythm that feels safe for you, ensuring constant support throughout our therapeutic partnership.
GETTING STARTED: Are specialized referrals mandatory for me
Formal documentation is not a requirement to start. Users often reach out when they feel stuck, overwhelmed by life, or eager to understand themselves better. I offer a compassionate space to build the insight needed for long-term emotional health.
What if I feel nervous about the timeline of our work together
Initial hesitation is completely normal. Our sessions are not bound by a set timeline; we regularly assess your progress to ensure we are moving at the right speed. My goal is to empower you to find balance while supporting you for as long as needed.
DEPENDENCY AID: Must I be sober before our very first appointment
Abstinence is not a prerequisite to begin care. Drawing on over a decade of experience, I support you in reaching your own goals—whether that involves stopping entirely, reducing use, or focusing on safety. A clinical diagnosis is never required.
Can you support me if I am caring for someone with a dependency
Definitely. Addiction affects every family member and friend. I offer a safe environment to process the heavy emotional burden, establish healthy boundaries, and focus on your own well-being while you navigate the challenges of supporting a loved one.
Q: What platform do you use for online sessions?
A: Sessions are held via Google Meet. You do not need a Google account or any special software. Before your session, you will receive a link by email — just click it to join from your phone, tablet, or computer.
FEES AND LOGISTICS: How do I book and pay for my sessions
You can request an appointment through our web form, via email, or by phone. To view a complete list of rates and see my latest openings, please head to the "Book Online" page.
How long are we meeting per week
Sessions typically run between 30 and 90 minutes each. How often we meet is up to you; we can arrange weekly or monthly visits based on what fits your current schedule and mental health needs.
CONFIDENTIALITY: Will my data and conversations stay private
Our interactions are strictly private. There are limited legal exceptions regarding immediate harm which we cover during our first talk. I also provide a written consent form for you to keep for reference.
Can I contact this service for an urgent emergency
Authentic You Counselling is not a crisis center. If you are in danger, please dial 000 immediately. For 24/7 mental health intervention, reach out to Lifeline by calling 13 11 14.
MANDATED VISITS: Can I attend if I have a court requirement
Yes, I have extensive background working with individuals in the legal system. You are welcome to attend if a court or lawyer has advised you to seek professional support concerning substance use or behavior.
Do you provide a report for my legal representative
Not automatically. Letters for legal use depend on your engagement, my clinical view, and specific policies. Please note these documents do not guarantee a particular result in any legal matter you are facing.
Why can I not just fix this on my own
While personal drive is vital, long-term stress can rewire your brain into survival patterns that resist change. Professional therapy offers a structured way to decode these habits and gives you stable techniques to rely on when your own resolve feels thin.
What other concerns do you treat here
Beyond addiction recovery, I assist individuals with social anxiety, relationship struggles, career transitions, and confidence building. Deciding to start is an act of courage, and I am here to help you navigate through these life challenges together.