If you are considering counselling in Ballarat, you may have questions about how therapy works, what to expect, and how to book your first appointment. Below are answers to some of the most common questions people ask when considering counselling support.

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Is there a counsellor in Ballarat who understands anxiety and emotional overwhelm?

Yes. Begonia Counselling & Support provides counselling in Ballarat for adults experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, emotional overwhelm, grief, burnout and more. Counselling can help you better understand what you are experiencing and develop practical strategies to manage difficult thoughts, emotions, and life challenges.

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How do I find a counsellor in Ballarat who is accepting new clients?

If you are looking for a counsellor in Ballarat, you can contact Begonia Counselling & Support directly through the website or by phone to enquire about current availability. Appointments are available in person in Ballarat, with telehealth sessions also available Australia-wide.

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Is counselling confidential?

Yes. Counselling sessions are confidential and provide a private space where you can talk openly about your experiences. There are some legal limits to confidentiality, which will be explained during your first session.

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Do you offer counselling in Ballarat?

Yes. Begonia Counselling & Support provides in-person counselling in Ballarat, Victoria, as well as telehealth sessions available Australia-wide.

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Do you offer trauma-informed counselling in Ballarat?

Yes. My approach to counselling is trauma-informed, meaning I aim to create a safe, respectful, and supportive environment where clients feel heard and understood. Trauma-informed counselling recognises the impact that trauma can have on emotional wellbeing and focuses on helping clients build resilience and regain a sense of control.

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Can counselling help with anxiety and chronic stress?

Yes. Counselling can help you explore the causes of anxiety and ongoing stress while learning practical strategies to manage worry, emotional overwhelm, and negative thinking patterns. Many people find that counselling provides a supportive space to process challenges and develop healthier ways of coping.

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Do you provide grief counselling in Ballarat?

Yes. Counselling can support individuals who are experiencing grief or loss. Grief can arise from many situations, including the loss of a loved one, major life changes, or ongoing emotional challenges. Counselling offers a supportive space to talk through these experiences and find ways to navigate the grieving process.

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Is counselling available for people experiencing burnout or emotional exhaustion?

Yes. Many people seek counselling when they feel emotionally exhausted, overwhelmed, or burnt out by life demands. Counselling can help you identify sources of stress, understand your emotional responses, and develop practical ways to restore balance and wellbeing, and build resilience.

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Is there counselling support for parents of neurodivergent children?

Yes. I have a special interest in supporting parents and carers of neurodivergent children, including families navigating autism, ADHD, and complex support needs. Caring for a child with additional needs can be deeply meaningful but also emotionally demanding, and counselling can provide support, understanding, and strategies for managing stress and carer burnout.

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Do you offer counselling for carer burnout?

Yes. Carer burnout is a common experience for parents and carers who are supporting children or family members with ongoing needs. Counselling can help carers process their experiences, develop coping strategies, and prioritise their own wellbeing while continuing to support their loved ones.

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Are there affordable counselling options available in Ballarat?

Private counselling sessions are available at Begonia Counselling & Support. Some concession appointments are available with a Pension or Healthcare card. Please contact the practice directly to discuss current availability and options.

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Do you offer counselling near me if I live outside Ballarat?

Yes. While in-person counselling is available in Ballarat, telehealth sessions are also available for clients across Australia. Telehealth can be a convenient option for people who prefer to access counselling from home.

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Do you offer after-hours counselling appointments?

Flexible appointment times may be available, including some after-hours sessions depending on availability. Please check the online booking system or contact the practice to enquire about suitable appointment times.

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How do I book a counselling session?

You can book a counselling session through the online booking system on the Begonia Counselling & Support website. If you have questions before booking, you are also welcome to make contact to discuss whether counselling may be helpful for your situation.

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What can I expect in my first counselling session?

I’ll explain how sessions work, get to know what’s brought you here, and make sure you feel safe and supported. There will be some history taking but there’s no pressure to share everything all at once.

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Do I need a referral to see you?

No referral is required. You can book directly at any time.

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Who do you work with?

I support adults, parents, and carers, particularly those supporting neurodivergent children or living with long-term stress, burnout, anxiety, or overwhelm.

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Do you offer neurodiversity-affirming counselling?

Yes. I work from a neuroaffirming, trauma-informed approach that respects neurodivergent identities and focuses on strengths, not “fixing”.

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Do you offer in-person or online sessions?

Sessions are currently on-line, with in-person appointments available soon in Ballarat.

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I’m a carer, do I need a ‘reason’ to come to counselling?

No. Caring is demanding, and you don’t need to be in crisis to deserve support. Carers-burnout is a real threat, and self-care is an important preventative measure. 

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I’m exhausted and burnt out, can counselling really help?

Yes. Counselling can help you process the emotional load of caring, rebuild capacity, and develop practical strategies for ongoing support.

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Do you understand the NDIS and disability systems?

Yes. I have experience working in the disability sector and supporting carers navigating NDIS-related stress and complexity.

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Can counselling help if my child is neurodivergent but I’m the one struggling?

Absolutely. Many parents come to counselling for their own support, not their child’s, and that matters.

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How long are sessions?

Standard counselling sessions are 60 minutes.

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What are your fees?

My current fees range from $100-180 depending on conditions. All fees and details are visible on the booking page. If you have any questions, feel free to get in touch.

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What if I need to cancel or reschedule?

If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, I request a minimum of 24 hours' written notice. Cancellations made with less than 24 hours' notice result in a charge equivalent to 100% of the session fee.

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Is counselling confidential?

Yes. Sessions are confidential, with a few legal and safety-related exceptions. Your personal and health information is protected under Australian privacy laws. Disclosure of your information will only occur when required by law or if there is a risk of harm to yourself or others.

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What if I don’t know what to say?

That’s completely okay. Many people come in unsure where to start, I’ll guide the process.

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How do I know if you’re the right counsellor for me?

Feeling safe and understood matters. You’re welcome to reach out with questions or book an initial session to see if we’re a good fit.

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Is it okay if I’m nervous about starting counselling?

Yes. Almost everyone is. You’re not doing it wrong, and you’re not alone​