Treatment Information

Presentations

I offer support for the following types of concerns:

  • Anxiety and depression

  • Relationship and family issues

  • Traumatic experiences

  • Alcohol and drug use

  • Eating and body image issues

  • Existential Issues

Psychodynamic Psychotherapy

Psychodynamic psychotherapy is a depth based form of psychotherapy that focuses on self awareness and self exploration from within a holding therapeutic relationship. Psychoanalytic theories acknowledge the complexity and the uniqueness of human experiences, the influence of the past on the present and the role of the unconscious in shaping one’s thoughts, feelings and patterns of behaviour. The focus of psychodynamic treatment is not only on finding relief from symptoms, but on building a greater awareness of what drives symptoms. Greater awareness can bring increased choice and capacity for change as well as opportunities for care and support.

My psychoanalytic training has focused on relational theories and research that look at how one’s sense of self develops over time in the context of important relationships and life experiences. In sessions, we will work together to understand repeated patterns and conflicts in your inner life and think about how these contribute to ongoing problems in your life. Psychodynamic approaches are well suited to individuals who are seeking longer term change and growth.

Assessment Phase

The initial three sessions form the assessment phase of treatment. In these sessions, we will discuss your reasons for attending therapy, complete a timeline of your life that includes important experiences and relationships and discuss treatment processes in further depth. At the end of the assessment phase, we will make a decision together about commencing treatment.

Therapeutic Frame

Psychodynamic psychotherapy involves a commitment from the therapist and patient to meet on a regular basis at a consistent time. This creates a therapeutic frame that forms the foundation for a therapeutic process to occur. For each patient I reserve a 50 minute therapy space at a consistent time each week. The length of treatment will vary between individuals, but will typically occur over a number of years. I do not offer sessions on a fortnightly, monthly or ad hoc basis.

Location

My counselling room is located in Carlton at Rathdowne House. I also offer sessions via Telehealth throughout Australia.

Fees

My standard fee for a 50 minute session is $240.

Medicare rebates of $145.25 for up to 10 sessions per year are available with a Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP or psychiatrist (Gap fee: $94.75). A review with your GP is required after 6 sessions.

Private health and other Medicare rebates may also be available.

I offer a limited number of reduced fee spaces for patients who are no longer eligible for Medicare rebates.

Please note that psychodynamic psychotherapy is a longer term approach that will typically extend beyond the 10 Medicare rebated sessions.