Frequently Asked Questions
Should I see a counsellor or a psychologist?
It depends on your priorities and what you are seeking support for. If you want support for a mental illness or would like a diagnosis, a psychologist is likely best. Psychologists work within the medical model of mental health, meaning they can conduct assessments, provide a clinical diagnosis, and create a treatment plan. If you are experiencing a difficult life circumstance or are seeking personal growth and development, a counsellor can help. Counsellors and psychotherapists work outside the medical model, so we do not diagnose. Instead, we use many of the same therapeutic interventions as psychologists but apply them to your unique experiences and goals rather than to a diagnosis.
Can I use my Mental Health Plan?
You can attend counselling with a referral and Mental Health Plan, but please note that counsellors are not currently covered by Medicare rebates. Some private health insurers do recognise counsellors as providers. See below for details.
How can I claim with my private health provider?
Blue Wren Therapy is registered with: Bupa, Medibank Private, AHM, HCF, Police Health, Teachers Union Health, Phoenix Health, CUA Health, St Luke’s Health, GMHBA, and Doctors Health Fund. If your level of cover includes counselling, you will need to pay for the session and then request a receipt with the provider number to submit to your fund.
Do you work with kids or teenagers?
No. My services are for ages 18 and over.
What should I expect in the first session?
First, Michelle will confirm you have read and understood the privacy and confidentiality policy before you share anything. She will then check if you have any questions, so please feel free to ask. The first session is about getting to know each other. You will share what brought you here and what you would like to achieve. Michelle will explore your story with curiosity, and together you will discuss a plan for how therapy can best support you.
What is the Unstuck Method?
The Unstuck Method reframes being stuck as an opportunity to get curious. By exploring our problems and our potential solutions through curiosity, intuition, and experimentation, we learn to see things differently and move forward with hope. Rooted in the principle that when the student is ready, the teacher appears, it transforms uncertainty into insight and movement.
How many sessions will I or we need?
It varies for everyone. After the first session, we will discuss next steps. Most people begin with weekly or fortnightly sessions, which may later move to monthly check-ins. Some clients choose to continue regular therapy on an ongoing basis. There does not need to be an end date.
Is my or our problem too small for therapy?
Not at all. There is no issue too small, and you do not even need to have a “problem.” Therapy can be about growth, reflection, and creating meaningful change in any area of life.
Should I book an individual or joint session first for relationship therapy?
Relationship therapy usually involves both joint and individual sessions, especially at the start. Most couples begin with a joint session, then follow up with individual sessions. That said, you can start individually if you prefer. The only requirement is that both partners attend an individual session before having joint ones.
Do you have onsite parking?
Yes, onsite parking is available, so please do not pay for parking. You will receive a welcome pack after booking your first session with details of where to park.
Is your office wheelchair accessible?
No, unfortunately, we are located in an older building upstairs without a ramp or lift. Please arrange a for a Telehealth appointment if you have concerns about the stairs.
Was Sasha born without eyes?
No. Sasha lost both her eyes in traumatic circumstances before being rescued. We adopted her a couple of years ago, and she has since become an important part of Blue Wren Therapy. She embodies resilience, adaptability, and warmth.
Can I take Sasha home with me?
That is a firm no. While Sasha has a way of winning hearts within minutes, she is far too loved (and valuable) by Michelle and her clients to leave Blue Wren Therapy.
What if I am allergic to or scared of dogs?
If you are allergic, online sessions are recommended. If you are fearful, Sasha might be the perfect therapist for you. She is gentle, super-friendly, and has only about ten tiny teeth.