Is counselling the right level of support?
It’s a question a lot of parents ask.
The truth is, many people seeking support don’t need a clinical diagnosis. They need a skilled, experienced person to help them work through what’s happening, build new ways of responding, and feel less alone in it.
That is what counselling is, and for the kind of work described on this page, it is often the more appropriate fit than psychology.
When your child is seeing a psychologist, their therapeutic relationship is with your child — not with you. Counselling gives you something different: a space where you are the client, and what’s happening for you is the focus.
For presentations requiring formal psychological assessment, formal diagnosis or a Mental Health Care Plan, I will support you to find the right referral.
1. When counselling is the right level of support
You’re navigating everyday parenting challenges.
You’re feeling stressed, anxious or low in mood.
Relationships at home or in the family are strained.
You feel overwhelmed, stuck or just not like yourself.
You want practical strategies, support and a safe space to talk.
Counselling can help you feel clearer, more confident and better equipped to handle what’s going on.
2. When psychology may be needed
You need a formal psychological assessment.
You require a clinical diagnosis for Medicare, NDIS, or school.
You’re experiencing more complex, severe or long-standing mental health presentations.
You need ongoing psychological treatment for conditions such as trauma, severe depression, eating disorders, OCD, etc…
A psychologist is trained to assess, diagnose and treat more complex presentations and provide reports when they are required.
3. How parent counselling compliments child therapy
You are the client - the focus is on you.
You get support for what’s happening for you.
You develop a deeper understanding of your child.
You learn ways to respond that support your child’s progress.
You help therapeutic gains stick at home.
Your growth and wellbeing create a calmer, more connected home and better outcomes for your child.
If formal psychological assessment or diagnosis is needed,
I will support you to find the right referral.
You don’t have to figure it out alone.
I’m here to guide you to the support that’s right for you and your family.