FAQs About Counselling in the Sutherland Shire

  • You can book or get in touch in the following ways:

    • Booking portal — choose the service, date and time that suits you

    • Contact form — send a message through the website

    • Email — get in touch directly

    • Phone — call if you would prefer to speak with someone first

  • Mindnest Counselling is located in the commercial suites at Illawong Shopping Village.

    You can find directions here.

  • Yes. Free parking is available at Illawong Shopping Village, including undercover parking.

  • Sessions are 50 minutes long.

  • Individual counselling sessions are $130.

    Couples counselling sessions are $180.

    Mindnest Counselling is a provider with BUPA and NIB, so you may be able to claim part of your session fee back depending on your level of cover.

    To learn more, feel free to visit the Fees page.

  • No. You do not need a referral to book an appointment with MindNest Counselling.

    You can book directly online or contact the practice if you have questions before booking.

  • No. MindNest Counselling does not accept Mental Health Care Plans, and Medicare rebates do not apply.

    You do not need a Mental Health Care Plan or GP referral to book.

  • Mindnest Counselling is a provider with Bupa and nib.

    You may be able to claim part of your session fee back depending on your health fund and level of cover. Please check directly with your provider to confirm what you are eligible to claim.

  • Payment is made at the time of booking to secure your session.

  • Your appointment time is set aside for you.

    If you need to cancel or reschedule, please provide at least 24 hours’ notice. This gives enough time for another client to book the appointment.

    Cancellations or reschedules with less than 24 hours’ notice may incur the full session fee. Missed appointments, including appointments not attended without notice, will be charged at the full session fee.

  • Yes. What you share in counselling is confidential.

    There are some limits to confidentiality, including situations where there is a serious risk of harm to you or someone else, concerns about child safety, or where information is required by law.

    This is consistent with professional counselling responsibilities and the Australian Counselling Association Code of Ethics and Practice.

    I will explain confidentiality and its limits before we begin.

  • Mindnest Counselling is not a crisis service.

    If you are in immediate danger, call 000.

    If you need urgent mental health support, you can contact:

    Lifeline: 13 11 14
    Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467
    Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636

    For urgent medical or mental health concerns, please contact your GP, local hospital, or emergency services.