Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Sahaya therapy and counselling provides services under the Medicare Better Access Initiative when you have a valid Mental Health Treatment Plan and referral from your GP, psychiatrist, or paediatrician.[cite: 3]

A Medicare rebate is available for eligible clients; however, a gap fee applies, meaning there will be an out-of-pocket cost in addition to the Medicare rebate.[cite: 3]

While Medicare-funded sessions can make therapy more affordable, it is important to recognise that the number of rebated sessions is limited. For many people, particularly those working through longstanding or complex difficulties, the available sessions may not be sufficient to achieve lasting change. Developing a strong therapeutic relationship also takes time, and it is important that you feel comfortable with the therapist you choose.[cite: 3]

Sahaya therapy and counselling charges $150–$180 per 50-minute session. A limited number of reduced-fee appointments and sliding-scale fees are available for people experiencing genuine financial hardship. Please feel free to discuss your circumstances if cost is a concern.[cite: 3]

There is no set time frame for therapy and there is no limit as to how long you stay in therapy. This is discussed and negotiated together during therapy.[cite: 3]

You can reveal as much or as little as you feel safe to do. Its natural to want to keep some things to yourself. As the relationship between us builds hopefully you will feel safe to disclose whatever you wish to.[cite: 3]

No. You do not need a referral from your GP to access therapy at Sahaya therapy and counselling.[cite: 3]

However, if you wish to claim a Medicare rebate, you will need a valid Mental Health Treatment Plan and referral from your GP, psychiatrist, or paediatrician before your appointment.[cite: 3]

Some, yes. You always have to ask your insurer.[cite: 3]

It is not uncommon to take breaks from therapy although this should be negotiated and discussed as part of the therapy.[cite: 3]

It is best in couples therapy to have sessions together although there are times when I can see you individually as well. This would not be on a regular basis. Its often good to have your own therapist if you feel like you need individual sessions.[cite: 3]

This can vary depending on how you engage with and respond to the therapy. Some people experience almost immediate relief. Others take much longer, which is why long term therapy is an important option.[cite: 3]

Sahaya therapy and counselling offers online psychotherapy sessions to clients across Australia and India. You can access therapy from anywhere with a reliable internet connection.[cite: 3]

Online therapy is provided through secure, encrypted Zoom video sessions, offering the same confidential and professional care as face-to-face therapy. Sessions are typically 50 minutes and can be attended from the comfort of your home or any private, quiet location with a reliable internet connection and a device with a camera and microphone.[cite: 3]

Before your first appointment, you will receive your meeting link, session information, and consent forms. To help your session run smoothly, please test your technology beforehand, be ready a few minutes early, and choose a comfortable, stationary space where your privacy and confidentiality can be maintained. If unexpected technical issues occur and Zoom is unavailable, alternative options such as FaceTime or a telephone session can be used where appropriate.[cite: 3]

While both support mental health, psychotherapy and psychology feel quite different in practice. Psychotherapy focuses on deep, relational conversation that explore the patterns, experiences and relationships that shape how you feel and behave. It’s flexible, unhurried, and meets you where you are.[cite: 3]

Psychology, particularly CBT-based approaches, tends to focus on structured tools and strategies for managing specific symptoms over a set number of sessions. People often choose psychotherapy when they are looking for long term therapy to understand themselves at a deeper level rather than follow a fixed program.[cite: 3]

Psychotherapy can help if you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, challenge in relationships, eating disorders, addictions or simply a sense that something isn’t right and you’re not sure why. It’s also a good fit if you’ve tried other approaches and want something more in-depth and exploratory. The free 15-minute consultation is a good way to find out if it feels right for you.[cite: 3]

Whether we see each other weekly or fortnightly depends on your needs and availability. When your situation is very intense it is best to meet weekly. The frequency is often negotiated between us as we go.[cite: 3]

No. Sahaya therapy and counselling has a different fee structure for clients who live outside Australia. International consultation fees vary depending on your country of residence and the type of service provided.[cite: 3]

If you are living overseas, including in India, please contact us via WhatsApp to discuss the applicable fees and arrange a suitable appointment.[cite: 3]

• Cancellations within 24 hours of a confirmed appointment incur a 100% cancellation fee.[cite: 3]
• Prepaid fees will not be refunded; unpaid fees must be paid within 24 hours.[cite: 3]
• Appointment times are reserved specifically for each client.[cite: 3]
• Cancel earlier than 24 hours before the session to avoid the fee.[cite: 3]