F.A.Q
Do You Have A Question?
The answer might be below! If not, just contact me and I will be happy to help.
I'm nervous about starting or making the first call, what should I do?
It can be hard seeking assistance and many people can feel a bit nervous or have anxiety. This is completely normal and natural.
When we have a free 15 minute chat, we talk and see how we can work together as a team. I’m right there with you the whole time, and I'm always aware of the difficulty of taking that first step, so I always do everything I can to make this as easy as possible.
The first step is the hardest, and it's always in hindsight that we realise that first step was the best thing we ever did.
How long are sessions?
Regular sessions are 55 minutes long. If you want something different you can always contact me and discuss what you would like. We can do custom lengths if required.
How many sessions do I need?
This is different for everyone so there is no definitive answer unfortunately. My aim is to work with you to get the outcome you desire in the most efficient way possible, while making sure the results are long lasting and to your satisfaction.
Most common issues and challenges people have require around 6 sessions, but this can be more or less depending on many variables. I always aim to keep you fully informed in the process and timeline.
What happens in my first session?
The first session involves a discussion about what you would like to get out of our work together, and I would like to find out more about what has been going on.
We always aim to have you take something practical away from each session, including the first session.
How often should I have a session?
This will be discussed in our 15 minute chat or in our first session and is adjusted as you progress.
- For urgent issues, we may start with weekly sessions and scale back once you are comfortable.
- Once we have made some progress, fortnightly or monthly may be better.
- Some issues can be resolved quickly and others take time.
I will always aim to work with you and your needs as best as I can and keep you fully informed.
How much do sessions cost?
You can view the current fees on the home page.
Do you take ACC claims?
I don’t take ACC claims, and there are no subsidies for my services at this time.
If your employer has signed up with an EAP (Employee Assistance Program) that I’m not part of, you can still ask them if they’d be willing to fund sessions with me directly instead.
Many employers are open to this because it’s often more cost-effective for them — they pay my standard rate (listed on the homepage) without any extra fees going to the EAP provider.
Is my session confidential?
Absolutely! Confidentiality is the highest priority.
All client records are secured on a 2FA password protected health practitioners platform, and your records do not form part of your medical record.
I follow strict ethical practices of NCANZA for privacy and confidentiality. Online video sessions are done via the health practitioners platform (Cliniko).
No face to face or online sessions are ever recorded unless explicit permission has been obtained from you, and likewise, you are not allowed to record any session without prior agreement.
Can I cancel a session?
Yes, you can cancel a session up to 24 hours from the session date and time.
Within 24 hours you will forfeit any refund of the session fee. If you choose to reschedule instead of cancelling, the forfeit still applies if it is within 24 hours of the session time.
Can I reschedule a session?
Yes, outside of 24 hours of the booked session you can reschedule.
If you choose to reschedule within 24 hours of the session time you will forfeit your session fee you have paid and it will not be refunded.
What if I decide to stop our sessions?
That is completely OK! I always work to get the best possible outcome for you, and if you want to see another coach or therapist, I would be more than happy to help you make that transition and have connections to other professionals that I can recommend based on your needs.
I always aim for full transparency and honesty, so if you feel you are not happy with any area of our sessions or relationship, please feel free to bring this up with me to see what I can do to help.
There is no commitment to continue sessions and you are free to stop at any time.
What methods & ideas do you use?
You can find out more about some of the main methods and ideas I use on the about page.
Do you diagnose mental health conditions?
No, you should get any medical diagnosis from a medical health professional.
My approach is one of a psychological and philosophical nature in the form of mental health coaching, and you should always consult your doctor in anything regarding a medical diagnosis or assesment.
You can view the ABOUT PAGE for more information on Mental Health Coaching and what is involved, or book a free 15 minute chat to discuss it in more detail.
I'm on medication, should I stop?
No, you should consult the doctor who prescribed your medication, or one you prefer, about any changes to medication dosage or withdrawal.
Many medications given for mental health conditions have side effects and withdrawal effects, so stopping or managing these drugs should be done with your doctor's guidance and supervision.
Coaching and therapy are complementary to any medication you take.
Ready to Start Improving Your Mental and Emotional Wellbeing?
Choose whichever starting point feels right for you.
Start With a Session
Book a full one-to-one session and get straight into working on what is happening and what you want to change.
Online throughout New Zealand or in person in Queenstown.
Talk It Through First
Book a free 15-minute consultation call to ask questions, tell me a little about what you are looking for and see whether working together feels like a good fit.
No pressure and no obligation to book afterwards.