Frequently Asked Questions

That's completely normal, and it's a good sign that you're considering it. The first session is mostly about getting to know each other. Dean will ask some questions about what's been going on, your background, and what you're hoping to get from the process. You don't need to have it all figured out before you come in. Turning up is enough.

It happens, and it's okay. Finding the right fit can take time. If after a couple of sessions it doesn't feel right, there's no pressure to continue. We'd rather you find the right support than stay out of obligation.

Yes. Everything discussed in sessions is confidential. The only exceptions are situations where we are legally required to act to keep you or someone else safe — and where possible, we would discuss that with you before taking any action.

No referral is required to make an appointment. You can book directly through the website. If you want to access Medicare rebates, you'll need a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP — but that doesn't need to happen before your first session.

Yes. Research consistently shows that Telehealth psychology is as effective as in-person sessions for most presentations. Many of our clients prefer it for the convenience, and it works particularly well for follow-up sessions once a working relationship is established.

Yes. We use a secure, encrypted video platform and the same professional and legal confidentiality standards apply as they do for in-person appointments.

Telehealth sessions are available during standard business hours. If you need support outside those hours, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or call 000 in an emergency.

If your child is showing ongoing changes in behaviour, mood, sleep, school engagement or emotional regulation, it's worth getting some support. You don't need a clear diagnosis or a specific incident to make an appointment. If something feels off, that's reason enough to reach out.

Yes. We take a collaborative approach and involve parents throughout, particularly for younger children. This might include check-ins, practical strategies for home, and guidance on how to support your child between sessions — while still respecting your child's privacy as appropriate for their age.

Sessions are warm, low-pressure and tailored to your child's age. Younger children may engage through play or creative activities rather than direct conversation. The goal is for your child to feel safe and heard, not interrogated.

We work with adolescents on anxiety, low mood, stress, emotional regulation, self-esteem, school pressure, social difficulties, identity and family changes. If your teenager is struggling and you're not sure exactly why, that's a reasonable starting point.

Teenagers are entitled to confidentiality in therapy. We explain this clearly to both the young person and their parents at the outset. Parents will be involved if there are safety concerns, but otherwise sessions remain private.

It's common. Dean takes a relaxed, non-judgmental approach and doesn't push young people to talk about things before they're ready. Building trust comes first. Most reluctant teenagers settle quickly once they realise it's not what they expected.

We work with adults dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, grief, trauma, chronic illness adjustment, life transitions, workplace difficulties, and relationship or family challenges. If it's affecting your daily life, it's worth talking to someone.

The first session is focused on understanding what's been going on and what you're hoping to get from the process. It's also a chance to ask questions and make sure the approach feels right for you. There's no pressure to go deep on day one.

If your family is dealing with ongoing conflict, communication difficulties, a major life change, or stress that feels hard to resolve on your own, family sessions can help everyone understand each other better and find practical ways forward. Early support tends to be more effective than waiting until things escalate.

Not necessarily. Sessions are tailored to your family's needs and may involve different combinations of family members at different times depending on the goals of the work.

That's very common. We adapt the approach to suit each person's age and role in the family, making sure everyone feels heard while working toward shared goals.

We work with active and retired military personnel, police, paramedics, firefighters and other emergency services workers on a range of concerns — including transition to civilian life, trauma, anxiety, mood difficulties, relationship challenges and adjustment after service. DVA-funded sessions are available for eligible veterans.

No. Support is available for a wide range of service-related and personal challenges. Whether difficulties stem from operational duties, workplace stress, the impact on your family, or the transition out of service, therapy can help.

Yes. Before training as a psychologist, Dean served 13 years in the Royal Australian Air Force. He understands operational culture, what service life asks of people, and why standard mental health approaches can feel off the mark. You can read more about his background on the About page.