Services

The first session is usually the most daunting, so your counsellor will take some time getting to know you, and to create a safe environment so that you feel comfortable and can trust them. Your counsellor will explain our confidentiality agreement to you, and answer any questions you may have.

We approach each person with an enquiring mind. We believe that we are all unique individuals. Whatever the issue, your counsellor will listen and talk it through with you, and they will develop a treatment plan that can guide your work together towards healing and wellness.

Our approach to relationship therapy is founded on a sincere belief that healing and growth can be achieved when each member of a couple has the tools, understanding, and compassion to work effectively with each other.

Experience has taught us that the Imago approach is effective for couples who wish to enrich a good relationship, for those who need to deal with recurring conflict, and for those who are considering separation.

We believe that conflict is change trying to happen. Let’s embrace it and see where it takes us - there is nothing to fear from conflict itself. (For more information, see What is Imago?)

Consultation

We provide consultation and supervision to counselling professionals and organizations. We am committed to regular personal supervision to ensure professional and ethical practice. We value and seek professional guidance and consultation as required. In the interest of best practice for clients, we will liaise with other treating professionals.

Fees are by negotiation - please contact us.

Community Information

Lorraine is actively involved with the Wooloowin Community Centre and regularly provide Information Sessions about relationships.

Lorraine also facilitate Relationship Enrichment Programmes to interested Groups.

Please contact us if you are interested in a presentation or workshop on any of these topics.

Top

Relationships and Family Conflict

"Its not about finding the right partner,
it is about being the right partner."

As Imago Relationship Therapists, we have a rich understanding of intimate relationships, and the skills and expertise to work with couples.

Imago Therapy is equally valid for couples who wish to improve a good relationship, as it is for those who wish to understand and resolve their conflicts. In either case, couples are able to move toward a rewarding and enhanced relationship.

As a married woman with 4 adult children, Lorraine believes not only does she have a theoretical understanding of relationships, but also a personal experience of the value of a conscious relationship, and the pain and associated dysfunction of an unhappy relationship.

The stress of modern living and the associated limited time for everything can play havoc with an intimate relationship. We sincerely believe that Imago can provide a couple with the tools required to enrich their relationship, and to bring back the passion.

Mental Health Care

Lorraine and Judi are accredited Mental Health Social Workers. This means that they have been assessed by the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) as having specialist mental health expertise.

If you are feeling depressed or anxious, or are having relationship problems that are affecting your health and well-being, you can contact us directly to arrange an appointment.

Or you can discuss your issues with your GP. If your GP decides that counselling is appropriate, he or she can prepare a mental health assessment and make a referral to us. You will then be eligible for a Medicare rebate for our services, through the Commonwealth funded Better Access to Mental Health Care program. Rebates also apply if you have a referral from a psychiatrist.

Pregnancy Support Counselling

An unexpected pregnancy can be an emotional roller-coaster. You may experience feelings of joy, confusion, shock, disbelief, fear, ambivalence, and uncertainty. It may be very difficulty for you, or you and your partner, to make some major decisions.

We can assist in the process through a non-directive counselling approach, and provide information about options and available resources. In a safe environment you can explore and clarify your issues and concerns. Having information and clarity will assist in the decision making process. We will not influence your decision but will provide you with the necessary information and support to make an informed decision that is right for you.

The Pregnancy Support Counselling initiative provides for Medicare benefits to be paid for non-directive pregnancy support counselling services, provided to women who are concerned about a current pregnancy, or a pregnancy that occurred in the preceding 12 months.

Lorraine is registered with Medicare to provide this service.

Fees

Individual 50 minute sessions are $130.00.
Couple sessions of 60 to 90 minutes are $150.00.
Fees for professional supervision, consultation, and group presentations are by negotiation.

We are happy to discuss reducing our fees if you are unable to afford the standard rates.

Medicare rebates may apply when you have a referral from a GP. Please discuss this with your treating doctor. We don’t bulk bill, but we are happy to discuss payment options with you.

Top