FAQ

Why Innertune Counselling?

Welcome to Innertune Counselling — a space where healing begins through genuine connection and understanding.
I’m honoured to offer a safe and inclusive environment for children, adolescents, and couples across Australia to reconnect with themselves, explore life’s challenges, and grow with clarity and confidence.

Our Values: Respect · Safety · Cultural Sensitivity
We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we work and honour the wisdom and resilience of First Nations peoples. Everyone is welcome here—every culture, background, and story—without judgment or prejudice.

Your Journey, Your Pace, Your Voice
Life’s challenges don’t define you; they shape your growth. At Innertune Counselling, we believe that true healing happens through authentic connection, compassion, and collaboration. Research shows the strength of the therapeutic relationship is key to lasting change, so our work together is grounded in trust and mutual respect.

A Space to Find Your Rhythm
You are in control of your healing journey. You choose the pace, the approach, and what feels right for you—whether that’s emotionally focused therapy, narrative work, CBT, DBT, or a blend that fits your needs.

How We Work Together

  • Your voice and story are central to the process.
  • Therapy is relational—built on empathy, respect, and safety.
  • Spirituality and meaning are welcomed as part of holistic healing.
  • You reclaim your agency, moving toward resilience and authentic living.

Whether you’re a young person discovering your identity, a family rebuilding connection, or a couple strengthening your bond, Innertune Counselling is here to support your journey toward emotional balance, purpose, and fulfilment.

What is counselling?

Counselling is a professional relationship where a trained counsellor helps you explore your thoughts, feelings and concerns in a safe, confidential and non-judgmental environment. It provides support to help you work through challenges, develop coping strategies and make positive changes in your life.

What is psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy is a deeper, longer-term therapeutic process that explores underlying patterns, past experiences and relational dynamics that may be affecting your current wellbeing. While counselling often focuses on specific current issues, psychotherapy typically involves more extensive exploration of emotional and psychological concerns.

What's the difference between counselling and psychotherapy?

The terms are often used interchangeably, though psychotherapy generally involves deeper exploration of underlying issues and may be longer-term. Both use evidence-based therapeutic approaches to support mental health and wellbeing. At Innertune Counselling, we offer both counselling and psychotherapy services tailored to your needs.

What's the difference between a counsellor/psychotherapist and a psychologist?

While both counsellors/psychotherapists and psychologists provide mental health support, there are key differences. Psychologists hold a psychology degree and are registered with AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency), which allows them to provide Medicare rebates under certain conditions. Counsellors and psychotherapists are typically registered with PACFA and hold postgraduate qualifications in counselling and psychotherapy. Both professions use evidence-based therapeutic approaches, maintain strict ethical standards, and engage in ongoing supervision and professional development. The choice between a counsellor and psychologist often depends on your specific needs, preferences, and whether Medicare rebates are important to you.

What is PACFA registration and why does it matter?

PACFA (Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia) is the peak professional body for counsellors and psychotherapists in Australia. PACFA registration ensures your counsellor has completed rigorous postgraduate training, engages in ongoing supervision and professional development, holds professional indemnity insurance, and adheres to strict ethical guidelines. This provides assurance of quality, safety and professional standards.

What kinds of problems can counselling help with?

Counselling can help with a wide range of concerns including relationship issues, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, stress management, self-esteem concerns, life transitions, family conflicts, work-related stress, addiction, anger management and identity issues.

How do I book an appointment?

You can contact us via email at innertunecounselling1@outlook.com or through our website contact form. We'll respond promptly to arrange a suitable appointment time for you.

Do I need a referral?

No, you do not need a referral to see a counsellor or psychotherapist. You can contact us directly to book an appointment.

Is video therapy available?

Yes, video therapy via Zoom is available for your convenience. It allows you to access counselling from the comfort of your home or any private space that feels safe and comfortable. This option removes travel time and offers flexible access to support from anywhere in Australia. All sessions are held on a secure, confidential platform and are just as effective as in-person therapy.

Are sessions available via telehealth?

Yes, we offer sessions via secure telehealth platform . Telehealth sessions provide the same quality of care with added convenience and accessibility from anywhere in Australia.

How does telehealth counselling work?

Telehealth counselling allows you to access therapy from the comfort of your own space—either by secure video call or over the phone. All you need is a phone or device, a reliable internet or phone connection, and a quiet, private space where you can speak freely.

Before your appointment, you’ll receive an email or message with all the details. At your scheduled time, simply answer the call or click the secure link to begin your session.

Is telehealth as effective as in-person counselling?

Yes, research shows that telehealth counselling is equally effective as in-person sessions for most concerns. It offers greater convenience, eliminates travel time and allows you to access support from the comfort of your own space.​

What happens in the first session?

Your first session begins with an initial intake assessment, where we take time to understand your current concerns, background, and any relevant personal history. Together, we’ll clarify your goals for therapy and explore what you hope to achieve through our work.

Based on your unique needs and preferences, we’ll collaboratively choose the therapeutic approach that best supports you. This may include Person-Centred or Humanistic Counselling, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Informed and Emotion-Focused work, Play-Based and Creative approaches, Narrative and Strengths-Based Therapy, Family Systems and Relationship-Focused work, or Emotionally Focused and Attachment-Informed approaches for couples.

All therapy at Innertune Counselling is culturally sensitive and grounded in safety, respect, and inclusivity. You are always in control of what you share and the pace at which you share it.

What will I be asked in the first session?

In your first session, we’ll gently explore what brings you to counselling and what you hope to achieve through our work together. Typical questions may include:
– What led you to seek support at this time?
– What goals or changes would you like to work toward?
– What is your current situation or support system like?
– Have you attended counselling before, and what was that experience like?
– Are there any cultural, spiritual, or personal values that are important for me to understand?

You may also be invited to complete brief questionnaires to help us better understand your concerns and tailor the approach to suit your needs.

What tools and techniques will be used in therapy?

At Innertune Counselling, I use a range of evidence-based tools and techniques tailored to your individual needs and preferences. These may include:​

  • Breathing techniques – to help manage anxiety, stress and emotional regulation
  • Activity sheets and worksheets – structured exercises to support reflection and skill-building between sessions
  • Psychoeducation – providing information about mental health, emotions and therapeutic concepts to empower your understanding
  • Self-reflective exercises – journaling prompts, mindfulness practices and exercises to deepen self-awareness
  • Coping strategies – practical skills to manage difficult emotions, situations and challenges
  • Problem-solving skills – structured approaches to address specific concerns and make decisions
  • Creative expressions – art, writing, music or other creative modalities to explore feelings and experiences
  • Walk therapy – for clients who prefer movement-based sessions, we can conduct therapy while walking in a safe, outdoor setting

All tools and techniques are selected collaboratively based on what will work best for you and your therapeutic goals.

How long does each session last?

Standard counselling sessions are typically 50-60 minutes in length. This allows sufficient time for meaningful therapeutic work while maintaining appropriate boundaries.

How often will I need to attend sessions?

Most clients attend weekly, particularly in the initial stages of therapy. However, session frequency is tailored to your individual needs and circumstances. We'll discuss what works best for you and review this regularly.

How many sessions will I need?

This varies depending on your concerns and goals. Some clients address specific issues in a few sessions, while others benefit from longer-term support for deeper or more complex concerns. We'll discuss your therapy plan together and review your progress regularly.​

What therapeutic approaches do you use?

At Innertune Counselling, I draw from a range of evidence-based approaches tailored to your individual needs through an integrated, client-led approach. This means you are at the centre of your therapy, and the approaches used are selected collaboratively based on what will work best for you. The therapeutic approaches I offer include:​

  • Person-Centred and Humanistic Counselling – creating a warm, non-judgmental space where you are valued and empowered to find your own path to growth and healing
  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) – exploring the connections between your thoughts, feelings and behaviours to develop new patterns and coping strategies
  • Trauma-Informed and Emotion-Focused Work – working gently and safely with past trauma and difficult emotions, honouring your experiences and supporting healing at your own pace
  • Play-Based and Creative Approaches – using play, art, storytelling and creative expression, particularly effective for children and some adolescents
  • Narrative and Strengths-Based Therapy – exploring the stories you tell about yourself and your life, and reconnecting with your inherent strengths and resources
  • Family Systems and Relationship-Focused Work – understanding and addressing patterns within family relationships and broader relational dynamics
  • Emotionally Focused and Attachment-Informed Work for Couples – helping couples understand their attachment needs, strengthen emotional bonds and develop secure connection
  • Integrated, Client-Led Approach – combining elements from different modalities flexibly and responsively, always guided by your needs, preferences and goals

The approach used will be discussed and matched to what will work best for you and your unique situation.

Is your therapy culturally sensitive?

Yes, absolutely. At Innertune Counselling, all therapy is grounded in cultural sensitivity, safety, and respect. I am committed to honouring your cultural background, values, beliefs, and spiritual practices, recognising that each person’s lived experience shapes their story and healing process.

I have particular experience supporting South Asian communities and families, and I warmly welcome clients from all cultural, religious, and linguistic backgrounds. Cultural safety means creating a space where you feel seen, understood, and free to express yourself without judgment.

How is talking to a therapist different from talking to a friend?

While friends can offer kindness and support, a therapist provides professional training, confidentiality, and an objective perspective focused entirely on you. Therapy offers a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions freely, guided by evidence-based approaches. Unlike friendships, the therapeutic relationship is centred solely on your healing, growth, and emotional wellbeing.

What happens in a typical counselling session?

In each session, I provide a supportive space where you can speak openly about your experiences. Together, we’ll explore your thoughts and emotions, identify patterns, and develop practical strategies for positive change. Sessions are collaborative and grounded in evidence-based approaches designed to help you meet your personal goals.

Depending on your needs, we may use a variety of tools and techniques—such as breathing exercises, psychoeducation, self-reflective activities, coping strategies, problem-solving skills, creative expression, or even walk-and-talk therapy. Each session is tailored to your unique circumstances and preferred way of working.

Can I get a Medicare rebate?

Medicare rebates are only available for sessions with registered psychologists under the Better Access to Mental Health Care Initiative. As a PACFA-registered counsellor and psychotherapist, I am not eligible to provide Medicare rebates. However, counselling fees are often more affordable than Medicare gap fees charged by psychologists.

Can I claim through private health insurance?

Some private health insurance funds provide rebates for counselling services under their extras cover. Please check with your private health insurer to confirm your level of cover and whether they provide rebates for PACFA-registered counsellors.

What is your cancellation policy?

Please provide at least 24 hours notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment. Cancellations with less than 24 hours notice may incur the full session fee, as this time has been reserved exclusively for you.​

Is counselling confidential?

Yes, all counselling sessions are strictly confidential. The information you share is used only for assessment, treatment, and support within the therapeutic process. Nothing discussed in your sessions will be shared with anyone else without your informed consent.

The only exceptions to confidentiality occur if there is a risk of harm to yourself or others, or when required by law. These limits will be explained clearly at the beginning of therapy so you always understand your rights and boundaries around confidentiality.

Are there any limits to confidentiality?

Yes. While confidentiality is always maintained, there are a few rare situations where information must be shared as required by law. These include:
– If there is a serious and imminent risk of harm to yourself or others
– If there are concerns about the safety or wellbeing of a child or vulnerable person
– If your records are subpoenaed by a court

These limitations are guided by the PACFA Code of Ethics and will be clearly discussed with you at the beginning of therapy to ensure you understand your rights and responsibilities.

How is my personal information protected?

We comply with the Privacy Act 1988 and Australian Privacy Principles in handling all personal information. Your records are stored securely with appropriate safeguards to protect against unauthorized access. Please see our Privacy Policy for full details.​

What if I'm not sure counselling is right for me?

It’s completely normal to feel unsure about starting counselling. You’re welcome to book an initial consultation where we can talk through what’s been going on, answer any questions you have, and explore whether counselling feels like the right fit for you right now. There’s no pressure and no obligation to continue.

Can I bring a support person to my session?

Yes, absolutely. If having a support person present helps you feel more comfortable and at ease, we can arrange this. Please let us know in advance so we can discuss how to best include them in a way that supports your therapeutic experience.

For children and teenagers: A parent or guardian is welcome and may sometimes be invited to participate in part of the session, particularly in the early stages of therapy. However, it is equally important that young people have their own private space within sessions to express themselves freely and build confidence in the therapeutic relationship. This balance will always be discussed openly with both the young person and their family.

What if I don't feel comfortable with you as my counsellor?

The therapeutic relationship is at the heart of effective counselling, and feeling safe, heard, and comfortable truly matters. If at any point you feel we're not the right fit, that's completely okay — there is no judgment in that. I will always support you in finding the right practitioner for your needs and am happy to provide referrals to other qualified professionals who may be better suited to your journey.

What if my partner/family member doesn't want to come to counselling?

You can still attend individual counselling, and many people find this incredibly helpful. Even if your partner or family member isn't ready to attend, individual sessions give you a safe space to explore your concerns, understand your own needs, and develop effective strategies for navigating relationship challenges.

Often, starting your own therapeutic journey helps you communicate more clearly, which can sometimes encourage your loved one to participate later. If and when they are ready, we can then transition into couples or family counselling to support your relationship together.

I'm concerned about a family member or friend. What can I do?

You can listen with care and gently share how counselling has been helpful for you or others you know. You might offer to pass on information about Innertune Counselling, or even offer to help them make contact if they're open to it. If you are deeply concerned or unsure how to navigate the situation, you are also welcome to book your own session to discuss your concerns and explore ways to best support your loved one while taking care of yourself.

Do you work with children and adolescents?

Yes, absolutely. Working with children and adolescents is one of my special interests and primary niches as a therapist. With over 15 years of experience supporting young people, I deeply understand how to connect with them in ways that feel safe, natural, and engaging.

I use developmentally appropriate methods, including play-based and creative approaches, which allow children and teens to express themselves and process complex emotions without feeling the pressure of traditional "talk therapy." For your peace of mind, I also hold a current Working With Children Check (WWCC).

Do you offer couples or family therapy?

Yes, I offer both couples and family therapy. For couples, I use Emotionally Focused and Attachment-Informed approaches to help partners reconnect, understand each other's needs, and strengthen their bond. For families, I draw on Family Systems and Relationship-Focused models to improve communication and resolve conflict. These sessions typically run for 60 to 90 minutes to ensure every person has the time and space to be heard and supported.

Do you have experience working with diverse cultural backgrounds?

Yes, absolutely. As an Asian practitioner, I deeply value cultural diversity and understand how profoundly our backgrounds shape our lived experiences, values, and healing journeys. I am fluent in both English and Hindi, and I am committed to creating a culturally safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for clients from all cultural, religious, and linguistic backgrounds.

In my practice, I integrate cultural and spiritual values into therapy when it is meaningful to you, ensuring your identity is always honoured. While I have particular experience supporting South Asian communities and families, I warmly welcome and respect individuals from every walk of life.

What are your qualifications?

I hold a Master's degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy, as well as a Bachelor's degree in Education. My background in education perfectly complements my clinical work, particularly when supporting children, adolescents, and families.

I am a registered practitioner with both the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA) and the Australian Counselling Association (ACA). To ensure the highest standard of care, I continuously engage in postgraduate training, maintain ongoing professional development, and receive regular clinical supervision.

Do you have professional insurance?

Yes, I hold current professional indemnity and public liability insurance as required by PACFA registration.

Are you supervised?

Yes, I engage in regular clinical supervision with experienced supervisors as required by PACFA professional standards. This ensures quality of care and provides additional support for your therapeutic journey.

What if I'm in crisis?

Innertune Counselling is not an emergency response service. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, feeling unsafe, or need immediate assistance between sessions, please reach out to the following 24/7 services right away.

For Immediate Danger or Emergencies

  • Emergency Services (Police, Ambulance, Fire): Call 000 immediately.​
  • Hospital Emergency Department: Attend your nearest local hospital.​

24/7 Mental Health & Crisis Support Lines

  • Lifeline: 13 11 14 (or text 0477 13 11 14) – For immediate crisis support and suicide prevention.​
  • Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 – For immediate advice and support with anxiety, depression, and mental health crises.​
  • Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467 – Free professional counselling for people feeling suicidal or affected by suicide.​
  • NSW Mental Health Line: 1800 011 511 – A statewide service that assesses your situation and connects you with local NSW Health mental health teams.

Specialised 24/7 Support

  • Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 – Free, private, and confidential counselling for children and young people aged 5 to 25.​
  • 1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732 – National domestic, family, and sexual violence counselling service.
  • 13YARN: 13 92 76 – Culturally safe crisis support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
  • MensLine Australia: 1300 78 99 78 – Telephone and online counselling service for men with emotional health and relationship concerns.​

For Non-English Speakers

  • Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National): Call 131 450 and ask them to connect you to any of the services listed above.
Can I contact you between sessions?

Brief administrative contact via email or text is always welcome for appointment changes, scheduling, or brief updates. However, all deep therapeutic work, discussions, and support happen during our scheduled sessions to ensure you receive the time and focus you deserve.

If you are experiencing a crisis or need immediate support between sessions, please contact emergency services (000) or one of the crisis support lines listed below.

What is children counselling?

Children counselling is a safe and supportive space where kids can talk about their feelings, learn coping skills, and build confidence.

How do I know if my child needs counselling?


Signs may include frequent sadness, anxiety, difficulty at school, changes in behaviour, or struggles with friendships.

What happens in a children session?

Sessions are interactive and age-appropriate, using play, art, and conversation to help children express themselves and learn new skills.

How long does children counselling take?

It depends on the child’s needs. Some children benefit from a few sessions, while others attend regularly for ongoing support.

What is adult counselling ?

Adult counselling is a professional support service that helps adults explore personal challenges, emotions, and life situations in a safe and confidential environment. It provides guidance and practical strategies to manage issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, grief, and major life changes, helping individuals improve their wellbeing and cope more effectively.

What is teenage counselling?

Teenage counselling provides a safe, non-judgemental space for teens to explore emotions, manage stress, and build coping skills.

Do I need to talk about everything?

No. You decide what to share. The sessions are a place for you to feel heard and supported, at your own pace.

Can counselling help with school or social issues?

Yes. We help children & teenagers manage anxiety, school stress, friendships, family issues, self-esteem, and life transitions.

Will my parents be involved?

Parents may be included in some sessions if helpful, but the focus remains on the teenagers and childrens' needs and privacy.

What is couples counselling?

Couples counselling is a safe space for partners to improve communication, rebuild connection, and work through conflict or life changes.

What issues can counselling help with?

Common concerns include conflict, trust issues, intimacy challenges, parenting stress, financial stress, major life transitions, and more.

Do both partners have to attend in couple counselling ?

Ideally, both partners participate in couple counselling, but sessions can also support one partner if needed.

How long does couples counselling take?

It varies depending on goals and issues. Some couples see improvement after a few sessions, while others benefit from ongoing support.

Will couple counselling tell us what to do?

Counselling is not about giving instructions—it’s about guiding couples to understand each other better and make decisions together.

How long is a counselling session ?

All sessions are 50 minutes unless otherwise noted.

What are the prices for a session ?

Child Counselling: $69
Adults & Teen Counselling: $96
Couples & Relationship Counselling: $169

Getting Started
Complimentary Discovery Call: Free 15-minute phone consultation to see if we are the right fit.

Rebates & Funding
No GP Referral Needed: You do not need a Mental Health Care Plan to book.
NDIS Participants: Self-managed and Plan-managed participants welcome.
Private Health Insurance: Some funds may offer rebates for counselling services. Please verify eligibility with your specific provider prior to booking.

Do we need a referral ?

No GP Referral Needed: You do not need a Mental Health Care Plan to book.

NDIS Participants: Self-managed and Plan-managed participants welcome.

Private Health Insurance: Some funds may offer rebates for counselling services. Please verify eligibility with your specific provider prior to booking.