The practical stuff, plainly.

You sit on a chair, not a couch. We spend most of the hour with you talking and me asking questions — about what's brought you in, what you've tried already, and what you'd want a good outcome to look like. By the end I'll usually share what I'm noticing and we'll agree on a rough direction. You're under no obligation to come back.

No, you can book without one. Most people get one because of the Medicare rebate it unlocks (around $96.65 per session for up to 10 sessions a year). Your GP can write one in a longer appointment — it's not a big deal and doesn't go on any permanent record beyond your medical file.

Honestly, it depends. Most men I see land somewhere in 6–12 sessions. Some come for a tune-up over four. A few stay longer because they're working on older, deeper material and the slower work suits them. We'll talk about the rough scope after the first couple of sessions.

Yes — I work with clients all over Australia via secure video. Telehealth is rebated identically to in-person sessions under Medicare. For most things it works just as well as being in the room; for some kinds of trauma work I'll suggest in-person if you can manage it.

That's fair, and it's important. The relationship matters more than any technique. If after a session or two it doesn't feel right, tell me — I'd rather you find the right fit than stay out of politeness. I'll happily refer you on to someone I trust.

Yes, with the standard psychology limits — if there's risk of serious harm to you or someone else, or if records are subpoenaed by a court, I'm legally required to act on that. Otherwise nothing leaves the room without your written consent. We'll go through this properly in the first session.

More than 24 hours' notice — no charge. Less than 24 hours — 50% of the session fee. No-shows — full fee. I keep this fair both ways: if I have to cancel on short notice, your next session is on me. Medicare rebates don't apply to missed sessions.

Yes, occasionally. I'm not a couples therapist by training, but it can be useful to bring a partner in for one or two sessions where the work touches them directly. We talk about it first so we're clear on what we're doing and why.

If you're at immediate risk, please ring Lifeline on 13 11 14 or 000 — they're better placed in a crisis than I am between sessions. For ongoing work with serious depression or suicidality, I do that work, but I'll want a GP and ideally someone at home who knows you're getting support. We'll talk about this honestly in the first session.