Preparing for your First Counselling Session

Many people often feel anxious when they first attend counselling. Your psychologist is very aware of this and will help you to feel comfortable by being warm, friendly and understanding.

If you’ve seen a GP and received a referral, be sure to bring that along to your first session. If you have not done this, that’s okay too! You don’t require a referral to come to Brisbane Counselling Centre. We can, however, help you to organise an appointment with your GP after your first session, which may entitle you to some financial assistance under a mental health plan, if you are eligible.

Private health fund members may be eligible for rebates. All private health funds offer different levels of coverage, so you may feel the need to check your level of coverage with them before your first session with us. Find more information about rebates from Medicare and private health funds here.

Arriving at your First Session

Each counselling session with your psychologist at Brisbane Counselling Centre goes for approximately one hour.

If you are going to be arriving by car, there are numerous multi-level car parks accessible from Astor Terrace, and the Brisbane City Council Carpark accessible from Turbot Street or Wickham Terrace. Parking prices do fluctuate so please check the cost prior to arrival if needed. Regarding street parking, there is metered parking on Wickham Terrace, however this is limited, also please note that after 4pm Turbot Street parking, is a tow-away zone. Street parking is typically an option if you have an after-hours or weekend appointment.

If arriving by public transport we are located behind Central Train Station – if you exit the train station via the back stairs or elevator, this will take you up to Wickham Terrace & we are across the road at Number 87. Read more about our Wickham Terrace office here.

Your first session is usually spent with your psychologist learning about the issues that brought you to counselling. The psychologist will work with you to formulate a treatment plan aimed at addressing your particular issues and concerns.

All of the psychologists at Brisbane Counselling Centre are committed to providing ‘best practice’ treatment strategies that have been clinically proven (‘Evidence-Based’) to help people achieve their goals and aspirations.

Ongoing Treatment

Your ongoing treatment plan will be created on a case-by-case basis. You and your psychologist will discuss what will work best for you. Sessions are generally planned on a weekly, fortnightly or monthly basis.

If you have any further questions or concerns ahead of your first session at Brisbane Counselling Centre, feel free to visit our FAQ page. Here we answer Frequently Asked Questions on topics including rebates, our office location, treatment strategies and more. If you can’t find the answer to your question here, then then you are invited to contact any of our friendly reception team who will be able to help. Check our Contact details page for options.

Talk to usWe love to listen!

Please do not hesitate to contact one of our friendly receptionists if you need any further information or have booking enquiries.