Do I need a referral to see a counsellor?

In somatic therapy, we begin by first supporting your body to find and re-find safety and stability, which we call regulation. As we build regulation together, we learn the unique language of your nervous system. Only then is it safe to work small pieces of  ‘activation’ or tricky past moments.

This approach ensures you can come back into safety and stability with each ‘activation’. This is a key component to ensuring you are not re-traumatised, and that we don’t overwork the system.

Rather than focussing only on the story, processing traumas is done through sensations, images, movements, behaviours, emotions, and meaning, allowing your body to respond to the perceived danger in a way it wasn’t able to at the time.

This allows the ‘driving’ force behind your symptoms to be resolved, and many people experience a sense of peace, a connection with their vitality, and a sense of being more themselves.

Can I get a rebate for counselling?

Medicare rebates are currently only available for sessions with a registered psychologist under a Mental Health Treatment Plan. However, some private health funds do cover counselling, so it’s worth checking your policy. Our fees are also transparent and reasonable, and some people find counselling comparable in cost to the gap fee they’d pay for psychology.

How many sessions will I need?

It really depends on what you’re working through and what you’re hoping to get from therapy. Some people find a few sessions gives them a useful new perspective; others benefit from ongoing support. There’s no pressure to commit upfront; you can talk this through with your counsellor as you go.

What happens in the first appointment?

The first session is a chance to get to know each other and to explore your issue with your counsellor. You’ll have space to share what’s been going on for you, talk about what you’re hoping to get from therapy, and ask any questions you have.

It’s also an opportunity to see whether you feel comfortable – the relationship between you and your counsellor matters a lot, and it’s okay to take time to work out if it’s the right fit.

Is counselling the same as psychology?

Not quite – but it’s a common question. Both work in the mental health space, and there’s significant overlap in what they can help with. The key differences are in training focus, rebates, and scope of practice.

Psychologists have extensive training in psychological science, research, and diagnostics. They can formally assess and diagnose mental health conditions, and sessions are eligible for Medicare rebates with a Mental Health Care Plan.

Counsellors focus on relational, supportive talk therapy for emotional and mental wellbeing. They can’t diagnose, but their training is deeply specialised in the human side of healing. They also don’t (yet) accept Mental Health Care Plans for Medicare rebates.

At Soma, our counsellors are Masters-qualified, and we’re proud of the depth and quality of the training our counsellors have. (Fun fact: many psychologists actually complete counselling training to strengthen their therapeutic practice!)

If you’re unsure which is right for you, we’re happy to have a conversation about your needs.

Is therapy confidential?

Yes. Sessions are confidential, with the same small number of legal and ethical exceptions that apply to all mental health practitioners, such as where there’s serious risk of harm. Your counsellor will always be transparent with you about this.

Are your counsellors properly qualified?

Yes. There’s a common misconception that counselling is unregulated. It’s true that the title “counsellor” isn’t protected in the same way “psychologist” is, and not all counsellors are the same. At Soma, our counsellors hold tertiary-level qualifications and are registered with their professional bodies. We’re proud of the standard of training and experience our team brings.

How is counselling different from just talking to a friend?

A good friend is valuable, but counselling offers something different. Your counsellor is trained to hear what’s underneath what you’re saying, notice patterns you might not see yourself, and help you move through things rather than just process them in the moment. They’re trained in specific treatments and approaches that, when skillfully done, may seem like ‘just talking’, but is actually weaving together a healing experience that goes beyond a conversation. It’s also a confidential, entirely dedicated space where you are the focus.

I’m not sure if what I’m experiencing is “bad enough” for therapy. Should I still come?

Absolutely. You don’t need to be in crisis to benefit from psychology. Many people seek support when they feel stuck, overwhelmed, or like something just isn’t quite right, even if they can’t fully explain why. If you’re wondering whether therapy might help, that’s usually reason enough to find out.

Do you offer telehealth appointments?

Yes. Sessions are available both in-person in Canberra and via telehealth, so you can access support from wherever you feel most comfortable.

I’ve had a bad experience with therapy before. Is it worth trying again?

It can be. The relationship with your therapist makes an enormous difference, and unfortunately not every therapeutic relationship is the right fit. If previous therapy hasn’t felt helpful, it’s worth talking about that in an initial session. Understanding what didn’t work can actually be a really useful starting point.