​​

Do I need a referral to make an appointment?

No. You are welcome to book an appointment without a referral. However, if you would like to access Medicare rebates through a Mental Health Treatment Plan, you will need a referral from your GP.

​

What is a Mental Health Treatment Plan?

A Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP) is prepared by your GP and allows eligible clients to access Medicare rebates for psychological treatment. Your GP will discuss your concerns and determine whether an MHTP is appropriate for you.

​

What issues do you help with?

I work with adults experiencing a range of concerns, including:

• Trauma and PTSD

• Complex PTSD

• Anxiety disorders and panic attacks

• Depression and low mood

• Stress and burnout

• Life transitions

• Relationship difficulties

• Women's mental health concerns, including perimenopause

• Adjustment to illness, injury, or significant life events

​

What happens during the first appointment?

The first session focuses on understanding your current concerns, personal history, goals for therapy, and the factors that may be contributing to your difficulties. Together, we will develop a shared understanding of your needs and discuss a treatment approach that feels right for you.

​

How long are appointments?

Standard appointments are approximately 50 minutes in duration.

​

Do you offer telehealth appointments?

Yes. Telehealth appointments are available for clients throughout Australia. Telehealth can be an effective and convenient way to access psychological support from the comfort of your own home.

​

How many sessions will I need?

The number of sessions varies depending on your goals, the nature of your concerns, and your individual circumstances. Some people benefit from a small number of sessions focused on a specific issue, while others engage in longer-term therapy to address more complex difficulties.

​

Is therapy confidential?

Yes. Confidentiality is a fundamental part of psychological treatment. Information shared in therapy remains private except in limited circumstances required by law or where there is a serious risk of harm to yourself or others. These limits will be discussed with you during your first appointment.

​

Do you work with trauma and PTSD?

Yes. Trauma and trauma-related difficulties are a key area of interest and expertise. I have extensive experience supporting individuals affected by childhood trauma, complex trauma, military and veteran-related trauma, workplace trauma, and other significant life experiences.

​

Do you work with Defence members and veterans?

Yes. I have experience working with current and former Australian Defence Force members and veterans, including those experiencing trauma, PTSD, adjustment difficulties, stress, and other mental health concerns.

​

Can you help with burnout and workplace stress?

Absolutely. Many clients seek support when they feel overwhelmed, exhausted, emotionally drained, or disconnected from work and life. Therapy can help identify contributing factors, build resilience, and develop practical strategies for recovery and wellbeing.

​

Do you support women experiencing perimenopause?

Yes. Hormonal changes during perimenopause can significantly impact emotional wellbeing, contributing to anxiety, mood changes, irritability, sleep difficulties, reduced confidence, and a sense of losing oneself. Therapy can provide support, education, and practical strategies during this important life transition.

​

What therapies do you offer?

With over 25 years of experience in mental health, Marlene has undertaken extensive training in a range of evidence-based therapeutic approaches. Therapy is tailored to your individual needs, goals, and circumstances, with treatment drawing on a variety of approaches to support meaningful and lasting change.

​

Depending on your needs, therapy may incorporate elements of:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

• Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)

• Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)

• Relational Integrative EMDR (RI-EMDR)

• Attachment-Informed EMDR (AI-EMDR)

• Internal Family Systems (IFS)-informed approaches

• Somatic and body-based approaches

• Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PET)

Therapy is always guided by your unique circumstances and goals, ensuring treatment is personalised to best support your wellbeing and recovery.

​

What is EMDR therapy?

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based therapy designed to help people process and recover from traumatic experiences and distressing memories. EMDR can be highly effective for trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and other difficulties where past experiences continue to impact present wellbeing.

​

How do I make an appointment?

Appointments can be requested via the online contact form, email, or telephone. If you have any questions before booking, please feel welcome to get in touch.