Frequently Asked Questions & Answers

About the Therapy Process

Kia ora! The following are some questions that people often ask. I've answered them honestly. I want you to hear from me, not a textbook or a template, so you can get a sense of who I am and where I'm coming from, and whether this space might be a good fit for you. Ngā mihi.

What happens in a counselling session?
I will welcome the client, get settled and comfortable. I will explain my role briefly, acknowledging the client for being present, and will invite the client to talk about why they are here. The client is free to talk about anything they want to, and decide thereafter how they want to proceed. I will guide, facilitate, and support the process.

How long is each session?
Each session duration is 60 minutes. It is important for clients to arrive on time as all sessions will end on time, at 60 minutes. It is understood that there may be unforeseen circumstances that can occur which may hold a client up. Communication is key.

How many sessions will I need?
It depends on the client’s goals and expectations for counselling, and whether they feel those needs are being met. We assess that periodically. A client may come and try it out to see how they feel about the space, the Counsellor, and the process. A client may also come with a goal in mind to attend several sessions to work on issues that they would like to resolve and are therefore committed to weekly sessions. In this instance, we work toward achieving goals and desired outcomes. Some are happy after a few sessions. It is the client’s call at all times.

What issues can I bring to counselling?
Many clients will present with issues that they talk about when they arrive, and often find, once counselling begins, and over time – that there are underlying issues that come to the fore and are brought into the counselling process.

Anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, grief and loss, relationships issues, gambling, health-related issues, low self-esteem, communication issues, boundaries, life transitions, co-dependency, anger, frustration, confidence, conflict, workplace issues, women’s issues, career choices, exploring parenting issues - relationship dynamics between parent and child, facing court. There is no end to “issues” in life. I work within the scope of my expertise, and to the extent that that scope allows.

Specialties – Individual and couples counselling. Keeping it real, transparency, accountability, self-esteem issues, boundaries, co-dependency, problem ownership, communication skills, clarity. Calling things for what they are, when the moment calls for it. Business communications, mentoring, business start-up talks, life coaching. Mediation. Assisting clients to know, see, and speak their truth.

Do you provide urgent court-related assessments and reports?
The good news is, yes, we do. Clients can approach us often at the last minute for an assessment and report writing for a client facing court, sentencing, or a life-changing situation. The report is brief, pertinent, and relevant to client’s situation: background, presenting issue, insight into their actions, attitude, willingness to get help, familial support. etc.

It is not a full, clinical and psychological report – it is a counselling-based assessment, review, and reporting of the same. It is an essential service that we offer, learn more.

About the Counsellor / Fit

How do I know if you're the right counsellor for me?
The way to know is to make contact, whether by word of mouth, or from my website – you will get a sense about my manner, my written and verbal communication, my tone, how I present myself. Make an appointment and come see. You will get a feel for the space you are coming to as soon as you enter the room.

The bottom line is: I know who I am, what I'm doing and why I'm here. I know what I have to offer you and what I can bring to the counselling process. Having that initial session can help assess whether I am the right fit for you.

What’s your approach or style of counselling?
I adopt an eclectic style of counselling. One of the most important skills I believe in using in counselling is active listening, letting the client talk and tell their story. Listening to them and giving them a sense of I'm being heard, understood, and valued. I believe in using different modalities based on client need and what is best for them. I don’t pick out a particular therapy and think, ‘I will use this therapy’. I lend, lean on, and access a wide array of tools and resources that can help me assist my clients in reaching their goals.

PLEASE NOTE: I see therapies as a gift from those that originally created them, and I have respect for that. I am not boxed in or limited to a particular therapy. I am eclectic in my approach regardless of the resources and tools that I use. The ultimate aim is to assist my clients in whatever way I can – to assist them to tell their story. To talk freely. To feel OK to be where they are.

Are you a registered business?
Yes. Whanganui Counselling Services is a registered business in Aotearoa New Zealand. Our business number is displayed at the bottom of each page on our website for your reference.

Are you ACC or NZAC registered?
I am not registered with ACC (Accident Compensation Corporation) or NZAC (New Zealand Association of Counsellors). However, Whanganui Counselling Services is built on a strong foundation of professional integrity and care. We have protective infrastructure in place, including professional indemnify insurance, and public liability insurance - clear ethical policies, regular external supervision, and structured processes that guide and support our practice. These ensure client and practitioner safety at every step. We're also supported by a passionate Admin who is fully aligned with our kaupapa and plays a vital role in keeping everything running smoothly.

The core values often associated with ACC and NZAC - such as accountability, cultural safety, professionalism, and client-centered practice - are fully embedded in how we work. We simply operate independently, allowing us to offer more flexible and timely access to support, without unnecessary barriers. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or if you'd like more information about our services!

Booking and Sessions

How do I book a session?
My preferred means of booking an appointment is via phone, and email. Texting is not preferred. The former enables more accurate recording keeping. We will be exploring online booking platforms to streamline the process and keep it central in one place. We will advise.

Do you offer online counselling?
Not at the moment. If it is something we decide to consider, we will make it known on our website. I am aware platforms like Zoom, MS Teams, are being used currently. Some are using Email Counselling. We will advise. We prefer kanohi-ki-te-kanohi - face to face.

What is your availability?
Our current available days for counselling appointments are:

Monday - Wednesday to Friday, with the following hours:
10am-11am; 11.30am-12.30pm; 1.00-2.00pm; 2.30-3.30pm, and possibly 4.00pm-5.00pm. Tuesdays 10-11am, 11.30-12.30pm, 1-2pm.
Outside of those hours, and after hours, weekends, and public holidays will be considered upon request.

Where can I park?
There is plenty of free off-street parking outside the premises. You are welcome to use the driveway for closer access. The driveway has a slight slope and leads directly to front roller door. The Counselling Space is to the left, and front door entrance.

Please note: While the space is not fully wheelchair accessible (there is no ramp), but manageable with assistance. There is a small step up to the front entrance, and through the front door.

Payment and Policies

What are your fees?
$100 per hour session. Should we extend our hours to weekends, public holidays, after hours (after 5pm), the rate will change. Some clients prefer to meet after work hours or on weekends. To be advised. Clients will also travel to see the right-fit counsellor for them.

Do you offer sliding scale rates?
Currently our fees are a fixed rate. Please discuss re session plans over 6 weeks at a capped rate per session. We are currently working to bridge the gap. Talk to us about other options.

Do you use professional accounting services?
Yes. Our finances are managed using Xero Accounting and overseen by a registered Accountant. This helps ensure clean, accurate, and transparent financial records as part of our commitment to professional integrity. We are also supported by our Admin, who plays a key role in the smooth day-to-day running of Whanganui Counselling Services, brings strong accounting skills, systems know-how, and a keen eye for detail – keeping everything humming behind the scenes with integrity and care.

How do I pay for sessions?
Payment is required prior to the session via online banking and confirmation of the same. Cash payments are accepted on arrival prior to session. An invoice showing a nil balance will be emailed to you. We use Xero. After you have submitted Client Intake Form, you will receive a formal payment confirmation email with account details to make payment by bank transfer, or alternatively - cash prior to session commencement.

What is your cancellation policy?
I require a 12-hour cancellation notice so we can reschedule other appointments. I do not charge a late fee or a cancellation fee. What I will do is note it and others will have priority when booking for future appointments. If clients are late to sessions, the session will still conclude on time (1 hour) to make room for the next appointment. I am flexible if required.

What if I can't afford your services? Are there any other options available?
We understand that counselling can be a significant investment, and not everyone is in a position to pay for services privately. At this time, Whanganui Counselling Services can only offer counselling to clients who are able to self-fund.

We do not currently accept WINZ referrals or government-funded counselling pathways. While we hope to secure alternative funding or sponsorship in the future to help make counselling more accessible, we are not yet in a position to offer subsidised or low-cost sessions. At Whanganui Counselling Services, we are also currently exploring alternative funding and sponsorship options to help subsidise sessions for those in genuine need. If you have questions about our service, feel free to contact me!

Confidentiality and Ethics

Is what I say in sessions confidential?
Yes, what you say in session is confidential. Your privacy matters. It is not discussed with a third party. However, I am obligated and legally bound to disclose information pertaining to self, or other harm, and where abuse or harm to a child is disclosed. A Code of Ethics binds me. This is addressed in counselling by way of immediacy – pausing the counselling process and addressing the legal/ethical issue at hand.

Conflict of Interest
To protect the safety, neutrality, and integrity of the counselling space, I carefully consider any potential conflicts of interest. This may include situations where there are close or overlapping ties with family, close friends, or personal networks - even if indirect. If anything ever feels unclear, you're welcome to get in touch - I'm happy to chat it through. If anything comes up in session for either myself or a client, we will address it immediately.

Do you keep session notes?
As a counsellor, I may take some notes during our sessions (with discretion, and not to interrupt the flow). It assists with continuity of care. You have the right to access those notes, including any documents you contribute, upon request. However, please note that my personal session review notes, which I use for professional reflection and planning, are considered my private records and are not part of the material accessible to clients. They are stored securely in the counselling room. I am the only one who has access to client notes. It is always the client's right to access notes that are written about them, or anything they have said during session time.

Other Practicalities

Do you work with children/teens/families/couples/mediation?
I am open to working with children and teens (depending on age and the issues at hand). Yes, I counsel couples and I provide mediation to couples, and pairs (any two people). In saying that, knowing my limitations is paramount to me as a professional. I owe it to myself and to my clients to advise them if I am not able to take on a certain case, or whether it is out of my scope or expertise. I practice referral to another counsellor, or agency. The information for such will be sought and provided to the client(s) upon request.

What if I’m in crisis or need urgent help?
I am not an emergency service but I can refer or recommend. Please see following list of emergency services in Whanganui region:

Emergency Services
Crisis Assessment and Treatment Team (CATT) – 0800 653 358
Whanganui Hospital Mental Health Services – 06 348 1234
Whanganui Emergency Department – 06 348 1234
Police, Ambulance, Fire – Dial 111
Lifeline – 0800 543 354
Suicide Crisis Helpline – 0508 828 865
Healthline – 0800 611 116
Samaritans – 0800 726 666

Your Questions Answered.
Clarity and Confidence Before You Begin.