What to Expect

The most important variable in effective treatment is the client-therapist match. A client must feel comfortable with their therapist; feeling understood and supported.

FIRST STEP

When you first contact Amy Greaves Psychology & Counselling you will have a brief phone assessment. This information will allow Amy to make sure she is the most appropriate practitioner for your needs. We understand that this information can be sensitive, so please let us know if you'd prefer to answer these questions via email. An intake form will also be sent for completion prior to your initial appointment.

CONTACT AMY

FIRST SESSION

During your first session with Amy, she will ask questions to understand what you’re struggling with and what brought you to see her. You’ll likely talk about some of your past (family history, life experiences) and how your symptoms or feelings are manifesting today, as well as how long they have been showing up. Together we will explore confidentiality, how the sessions will proceed, and your goals for attending therapy. You can expect to receive a professional, respectful and confidential service, in a comfortable setting.

HOW MANY SESSIONS WILL I NEED?

Because the therapeutic process is different for every individual, the number of sessions you need will depend upon your own unique circumstances. Some people see changes in a small number of sessions, while others may take longer. The length of individual therapy depends on your needs, resources, motivation, and goals for therapy.

TELEHEALTH

Appointments that take place over the phone or on a video conference are called “telehealth” appointments.

You do not need to install an app or any software. If you have an email, computer, phone or iPad with an internet connection it is as easy as clicking a link that is sent. Appointments will not be recorded. We comply with privacy laws and treat client confidentiality with utmost importance.

Research has indicated that therapeutic interactions where the client and psychologist are physically present in the same room or space have no significant advantage over other face-to-face interactions such as video-conferencing (i.e. via platforms such as Zoom, Skype, or FaceTime). So long as the practitioner and the client can directly observe one another’s face, the therapeutic benefits of Telehealth services are much the same as with physical presence.

Confidentiality

Amy adheres strictly to the APS code of ethics (2007) regarding confidentiality.

Amy Greaves Psychology & Counselling prides itself on being a paper-free service. To safeguard your personal information, we use an online practice management software called Halaxy. This software is encrypted and equivalent to bank-grade security. You can be assured of the security of your personalised information, payment details, and session notes.

We value the efficiency that this software provides, as it allows Amy to dedicate more time to therapy than she otherwise would be able to with paper files. For more information on Halaxy's security please refer to the following link:

HALAXY

Crisis and Emergency

Please be aware that Amy Greaves Psychology & Counselling is not an emergency or crisis service.

In the event of a mental health-related emergency please contact one of the following:

Family Doctor/GP
Ring 000 for emergencies (police or ambulance)
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
Kids Helpline (ages 5-25): 1800 551 800
Suicide Callback Service: 1300 659 467
Mensline: 1300 78 9978
The National Sexual Assault, Family & Domestic Violence Counselling Line: 1800 737 732
Sexual Assault Crisis Line: 1800 806 292
Sane Australia: 1800 18 7263 (https://www.sane.org)