FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about therapy, supervision, fees, and how to get started. If your question is not answered here, please get in touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Getting Started
Do I need a GP referral to see you?
No. As a PACFA-registered clinical counsellor, I accept self-referrals. You do not need a GP referral, mental health care plan, or any other documentation to begin therapy.
How do I book a first appointment?
Use the contact form on the contact page or email contact@scottnodwell.com.au. I will respond within a few business days to arrange an initial session.
What happens in a first session?
The first session is 60 minutes. We will discuss your current concerns, relevant history, and what you hope to achieve from therapy. It is also an opportunity for you to assess whether this feels like the right therapeutic fit.
How many sessions will I need?
This varies significantly depending on your goals and circumstances. Some people benefit from short-term focused work (6-12 sessions), while others engage in longer-term depth therapy. There is no fixed program -- we work at your pace and review progress regularly.
Fees & Funding
Can I claim Medicare rebates for PACFA counselling?
PACFA-registered counsellors are not currently eligible for Medicare rebates under the Better Access scheme. This is a limitation of the current funding model, not a reflection of qualification or competence.
Can I use private health insurance?
Some private health funds offer rebates for counselling with PACFA-registered practitioners under their Extras cover. Check with your specific fund to confirm. I can provide receipts for claiming purposes.
What are your fees?
Individual therapy sessions are $200 for a 50-minute session. Clinical supervision is $180 for a 60-minute session. A complimentary 20-minute initial phone consultation is available. PACFA counsellors are not eligible for Medicare rebates under the Better Access scheme, though some private health funds may offer partial rebates under Extras cover. Receipts are provided for claiming purposes.
Telehealth
Do you offer telehealth sessions?
Yes. I offer video-based telehealth sessions to clients anywhere in Australia. Telehealth is conducted via a secure, encrypted platform.
Is telehealth as effective as in-person therapy?
Research consistently shows that telehealth therapy is as effective as in-person therapy for most presentations. Some clients prefer it for convenience and comfort. We can discuss which format suits your needs.
What do I need for a telehealth session?
A private, quiet space where you will not be overheard, a stable internet connection, and a device with a camera and microphone. A laptop or tablet is preferable to a phone for a better therapeutic experience.
Specialisations
What is depth psychology?
Depth psychology is a tradition that attends to the unconscious dimensions of human experience -- including archetypes, shadow, symbolism, and the deeper patterns that shape identity and relationships. I integrate depth approaches (particularly Jungian psychology) with evidence-based frameworks like schema therapy and attachment theory.
What does neurodiversity-affirming therapy mean?
It means understanding ADHD, autism, and other neurodevelopmental differences as natural variations in human neurology rather than deficits to be fixed. Therapy focuses on self-understanding, reducing masking, managing the genuine difficulties that arise, and building a life that works with your neurology rather than against it.
Can you diagnose ADHD or autism?
As a counsellor, I do not provide formal diagnostic assessments. However, I work extensively with neurodivergent clients (including those exploring whether they may be neurodivergent) and can refer to appropriate assessment services if needed. I am registered with the Australian ADHD Professionals Association (AADPA).
Do you work with couples or families?
I primarily work with individuals, though my clinical background includes extensive family therapy experience. For couples or family work, I can discuss options or provide referrals to specialist practitioners.
Clinical Supervision
Who is your supervision suitable for?
I provide clinical supervision for registered counsellors (PACFA/ACA), psychotherapists, psychologists, and social workers in clinical roles. I have particular expertise supervising practitioners working with neurodivergent clients, complex trauma, and personality difficulties.
Can I count supervision hours toward PACFA registration?
Yes. As a PACFA Clinical member, supervision with me counts toward your ongoing registration requirements.
Do you offer group supervision?
Currently I offer individual supervision. Group supervision may be available in future -- contact me to express interest.
About the Practice
What qualifications do you hold?
I hold a Master of Counselling from the University of Notre Dame Australia, a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) and a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Western Australia. I am a PACFA Clinical member and an AADPA Registered Practitioner.
What is PACFA?
The Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA) is the national peak body for counsellors and psychotherapists. PACFA Clinical registration requires postgraduate training, supervised clinical hours, and ongoing professional development.
Are you taking new clients?
The practice is currently at capacity. A waitlist is open -- submit an enquiry through the contact form and I will be in touch when availability opens.
Have another question? I am happy to help.
Contact Me