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Frequently asked questions

The stuff you want to know, before you have to ask any questions
What is the difference between a counsellor and a psychologist?​

Counselling could be seen as preventative healthcare. For a person to see a counsellor, there is no presumption of mental illness. While counsellors can treat clients with this presentation, counsellors primarily operate in various capacities focussed on growth, goal orientation, interpersonal relationships, career and more. Conversely, psychologists primarily work with clients who live with more serious mental health conditions. As such, psychologists have the authority to diagnose clients through use of diagnostic tools and assessments. This is something counsellors do not have the authority to do.

Why is it important that your therapist is registered?

Registering with a peak body such as the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) or PACFA is voluntary and is important to look out for when choosing a counsellor to work with. If you see an ACA registration, you can be confident that the counsellor has been sufficiently trained in evidence based therapies, partakes in ongoing training and regular supervision. ACA registered counsellors operate in alignment the the ACA Code of Ethics and within their scope of practice ensuring that they provide responsible and effective support. Elena Obst of Cognitively Speaking is registered with ACA.

How many sessions will I need?

Cognitively Speaking provides person centred counselling. As such, there is not a predetermined number of session. The frequency of sessions will depend on your need. Bookings are flexible and you can either schedule a periodic session e.g. weekly, fortnightly, monthly or book in as needed. Depending on your presenting needs in the first session or introductory call, the counsellor may suggest and initial schedule.

Can I claim a rebate for counselling sessions?

Mental Health Care Plans you might access through a GP are not available for counselling services. At this stage, private health fund rebates are also not applicable to Cognitively Speaking services.

Is online counselling effective?

Yes. For many individuals online counselling can be as effective as in person sessions. Research has shown that it can help with a variety of concerns such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress, relationships and more. The effectiveness of any counselling is heavily impacted by the therapeutic relationship between the client and the counsellor, the type of therapy and the client commitment to the process.

Is online counselling confidential?

All of the personal information gathered during counselling in intake, correspondence and during sessions is confidential. Counsellors are legally and ethically bound to this confidentiality. There are a couple of very specific situations where a counsellor would have to break this confidentiality. These include; if information is subpoenaed by a court; where failure to disclose would place you or another person at risk; or if your approval have been given to provide information to another agency such as a GP or lawyer or another party.

Do I need a referral to access sessions? 

No. A referral is not required to access services through Cognitively Speaking. If you do have a referral from another care provider, you are welcome to share this as it may benefit the counsellor understanding of your care plan and presenting concerns.

Get in Touch

Offering online counselling support from Wagga Wagga, NSW.

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Sessions available between 6pm & 8:30 pm AEST

Monday - Thursday. 

ACA member counsellor # 28687

Working with children check # WWC0574695E

Logo showing membership of the Australian Counselling Association
Logo showing accreditation as a mental health first aider.

For purpose, for passion, for people.

©2025 by Cognitively Speaking.

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