Question 1

What can I expect in the first session?

Accepted Answer

Your first session is a space to get to know each other and talk about what's bringing you to therapy. There's no expectation to share anything you're not ready to, the focus is on helping you feel comfortable, safe, and understood. Together, we'll start to make sense of what's going on for you and what you'd like from therapy.

Question 2

How long are sessions?

Accepted Answer

Sessions are 50 minutes.

Question 3

Do you offer online sessions?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Ember offers telehealth sessions for adults across Australia. Some people prefer telehealth for its flexibility, while others use it when attending in person is not practical. Sessions are conducted via a secure video platform.

Question 4

Can I book an in-person session?

Accepted Answer

Currently, all sessions are held online via a secure telehealth platform. Limited in-person appointments will be opening soon, if you'd like to be added to the waitlist, please reach out via the contact form.

Question 5

What if I don't feel like we're the right fit?

Accepted Answer

Therapy works best when you feel comfortable and connected with the person you're speaking to. If it ever feels like we're not the right fit, that's absolutely okay, we will help you explore other options so you can find someone who feels right for you.

Question 6

Are sessions confidential?

Accepted Answer

Yes, everything you share in therapy is treated with strict confidentiality. The only exceptions are if there's a serious risk of harm to yourself or others, or if disclosure is required by law. We'll go through this together in your first session so you know exactly what to expect.

Question 7

How do I get a Medicare rebate?

Accepted Answer

To access Medicare rebates, you'll need a referral and a mental health care plan from your GP. Once your plan is in place, you can book your sessions directly. After each appointment, your rebate will be processed electronically and deposited into your bank account, usually within 24 hours.

Question 8

Can I use a mental health care plan from my GP?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you have a referral and a mental health care plan from your GP, you're eligible for Medicare rebates for up to ten sessions per calendar year.

Question 9

What if I don't have a mental health care plan?

Accepted Answer

You don't need one to book. Sessions can be attended privately at the standard rate.

Question 10

Do you see clients outside of Australia?

Accepted Answer

At this time, Ember can only offer therapy to clients who are physically located within Australia. This is due to registration and insurance requirements for Australian-based psychologists.

Question 11

Are you trauma-informed?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our approach is trauma-informed and person-centred, meaning safety, choice, and collaboration are always prioritised in our work together.

Question 12

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

We understand that schedules can change and unexpected things come up. You're welcome to cancel or reschedule your session at no cost if you provide at least 24 hours' notice. Cancellations or changes made with less than 24 hours' notice, including non-attendance, will incur the full session fee so that the time can be offered to someone else waiting for an appointment.

Question 13

What is Internal Family Systems therapy?

Accepted Answer

Internal Family Systems therapy is an evidence-based therapeutic approach that helps people explore deeper emotional patterns and inner experiences in a structured and compassionate way. Sessions often involve noticing thoughts, emotions, body sensations, and protective responses, and understanding how these interact. It is commonly used in the treatment of trauma, complex trauma, anxiety, and longstanding emotional patterns, with a focus on supporting greater balance over time.

Question 14

What is schema therapy?

Accepted Answer

Schema therapy is an evidence-based therapeutic approach that focuses on identifying and understanding longstanding patterns that develop early in life and continue to shape how people relate to themselves, others, and the world. Sessions often involve exploring emotional, cognitive, and somatic experiences linked to these patterns. It is commonly used in the treatment of trauma, complex trauma, anxiety, depression, and relational difficulties, with a focus on developing more flexible and supportive ways of responding over time.

Question 15

How many sessions will I need?

Accepted Answer

The number of sessions varies depending on your needs, goals, and the nature of what you are working through. Some people attend for a shorter period, while others engage in therapy over a longer term, particularly when working with more complex or longstanding patterns.

Question 16

What if I don't know what to talk about?

Accepted Answer

Many people worry about this. You do not need to arrive with a clear plan or story. Part of the work is slowing things down together and working out what feels most important to talk about.

Common Questions