FAQs
Do I need a referral to make an appointment?
You do not need a referral to choose to have me support you on your journey.
Simply email stelle@stelleshaktiphd.com.au or text 0466 422 224 to discuss any questions you may have or to arrange an appointment that suits you best.
Are our counselling sessions confidential?
Please know that I work within the Privacy Act Guidelines of the Privacy Act 1988 Amended 2000 and that all counselling sessions are entirely confidential. Anything you speak about & all every experiences that occur during our time together will be kept strictly private. I am a confidant & a keeper of secrets, so you can trust you are safe with me.
The only time I am allowed/required to share anything is if there is mention of risk of harm or threat to life.
What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule an appointment?
I understand that life can throw us some unexpected curve balls you may need to sometimes change your appointment. However, please consider that I have set aside your appointment time specifically for you. I therefore kindly ask for a minimum of 48 hours notice if you need to cancel or reschedule. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please email me at stelle@stelleshaktiphd.com.au
Will I receive a medical rebate for our sessions?
There are no medicare rebates available for counselling services. But I encourage you to contact your private health insurance to find out whether you are covered for counselling & psychotherapy, as each fund is different.
What are your qualifications?
I obtained my Bachelor of science (BSc) with honours degree (majoring in molecular genetics & biochemistry) from the University of Queensland (UQ). I subsequently obtained my Doctor of philosophy (PhD) degree at UQ in the fields of molecular genetics & developmental biology.
I obtained a certificate in ‘Holistic counselling skills’ and subsequently completed a two-year, full time, post-graduate ‘Professional training in holistic counselling & psychotherapy’ through the Metavision Institute. This course is accredited by the Psychotherapy and counselling federation of Australia (PACFA), ensuring a high standard in counselling and psychotherapy education. I am a registered member of PACFA (#28384) having demonstrated an approved level of training, experience and competence.
How many sessions will I need to have with you?
There is no average number of sessions. Every person is unique in the amount of support they need and how far they want to take their own healing journey. I offer a range of support programs ranging from 1 month of weekly sessions (an option to taste & explore) up to a 12 month deep dive of weekly/fortnightly sessions.
Most importantly, I am not here to make you dependent on therapy. Rather, I hope for you to experience the feeling of being deeply supported & to develop your own unique toolbox of skills/strategies that you can rely on to feel safe and centred when needed.