Understanding your journey
Starting counselling can feel like a big step, and it's natural to have questions. At Sunflowerscounselling, we believe in clarity, safety, and predictability. This section is designed to answer your most common queries, helping you feel informed and comfortable as you consider taking this important step towards your wellbeing and emotional growth in the Gold Coast.
Frequently asked questions
Most people aren’t just asking about counselling — they’re looking for clarity, safety, and predictability before taking a vulnerable step. We want you to feel understood and welcome, exactly as you are. Here you'll find answers to practical considerations and reassurance for common worries about therapy with Sunflowerscounselling.
The Sunflowerscounselling process
Initial contact
After you reach out, you’ll receive a brief response outlining availability, information about fees (£40 for a 50-minute session, also check our Session fees page), and a chance to ask any practical questions. If helpful, a short introductory call can be arranged so you can see if the fit feels right for your counselling needs.
First session (getting to know you)
The first session is gently structured but not clinical or interrogative. You can expect a conversation about what has brought you to counselling, exploration of what you’d like support with, and discussion of goals (if you have them — it’s okay if you don’t yet). We'll also explain confidentiality and boundaries. There’s no pressure to share everything at once; you decide the pace in this person-centred space.
Ongoing sessions
Subsequent sessions are collaborative and tailored to you. Depending on your needs, this may involve reflective conversation, emotional processing, identifying patterns in thoughts or behaviours, CBT-informed tools where appropriate, strengths-based exploration, and practical coping strategies. Sessions are typically 50 minutes and usually weekly to begin with, though frequency can be adjusted as part of our integrative approach.
Review & progress
Counselling isn’t open-ended by default. Periodically, you’ll review what feels different, what still feels challenging, whether goals need adjusting, and whether you’d like to continue or begin stepping toward ending. The aim is empowerment — not dependency.
The overall experience
Clients often describe the process as a space to exhale, a place where they feel genuinely heard, structured yet warm, grounded and steady. The core intention is simple: to create a calm, safe environment where you can explore what’s weighing on you and begin turning toward clarity, resilience, and growth at your own pace.
How much does it cost?
Our session fee is $40 for a 50-minute session. We understand that financial considerations are important. Please visit our Session fees page for more detailed information on pricing and payment methods. We currently do not offer concessions or packages beyond our standard rate.
How long are sessions and how often should I attend?
Sessions are exactly 50 minutes long. We ensure sessions conclude on time to respect both your schedule and that of other clients. If we run over time, it will be discussed beforehand. Most clients start with weekly sessions, as this consistency often supports better progress. The frequency can be adjusted as we progress, for instance, to fortnightly, based on your needs and our discussions.
Do you offer online or in-person sessions?
Yes, Sunflowerscounselling offers both online and face-to-face sessions in Gold Coast, Australia. Online sessions are conducted via secure video conferencing (we use [[platform name, e.g., Zoom with end-to-end encryption]]). Many clients find online counselling just as effective as in-person, offering convenience and flexibility. We can discuss which format best suits your needs.
What happens in the first session?
The first session is a gentle introduction where we focus on getting to know you and what brings you to counselling. You won't have to talk about everything straight away. It's more of a collaborative discussion to understand your needs and goals, rather than a clinical assessment. It's completely okay if you get emotional; our space is safe and non-judgemental for all feelings.
"What if my problems aren’t serious enough?"
Many people worry they’re 'overreacting' or that others have it worse. Counselling isn’t reserved for crisis. If something is affecting your wellbeing, relationships, or peace of mind – be it anxiety, low self-esteem, or life transitions – it’s valid. You don’t need to justify needing support.
"What if I don’t know what to say?"
Some fear sitting in silence or feeling awkward. It’s completely normal not to know where to begin. As your therapist, I gently guide the conversation, asking open-ended questions. There’s no expectation to arrive with a clear script; we explore together.
"What if I get too emotional?"
People worry about crying, losing control, or feeling exposed. Emotion is welcome in the space. It’s handled with care, not judgement. You’re always in control of what you share and how deeply you go. Our role is to hold that space safely.
"What if I’m judged?"
Shame and vulnerability can create hesitation. Counselling at Sunflowerscounselling is a non-judgemental environment. My role is to understand your experiences with empathy and unconditional positive regard, not to criticise or label you.
Is what I say confidential?
Yes, your sessions are private and confidential. This is a cornerstone of effective therapy. There are very specific and limited circumstances where confidentiality might need to be broken, such as if there's a serious risk of harm to yourself or others, or if required by law. These limits will be fully explained during our first session and outlined in our agreement.
What’s your cancellation policy?
We require a minimum of 24 hours' notice for cancellations or rescheduling. This allows us to offer the slot to other clients. Cancellations made with less than 24 hours' notice may incur the full session fee. We understand emergencies happen and encourage open communication.
How do I know if you’re the right fit for me?
Finding the right therapist is crucial. You can arrange a brief introductory call with me to discuss your needs and see if the fit feels right – there’s no charge for this. I work from a person-centred foundation with an integrative approach, tailored to your individual needs, especially those experiencing anxiety, low self-esteem, or life transitions. My experience covers helping clients navigate feeling 'stuck' and developing resilience.
How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions varies greatly depending on your goals and needs. Counselling can be short-term, focusing on a specific issue, or long-term, for deeper exploration. We will regularly review your progress and discuss whether you feel ready to stop or adjust the frequency. The aim is always your empowerment and autonomy.
"What if it doesn’t work?"
Some clients fear investing time and money without seeing change. Therapy is a collaborative process. We will regularly review your progress and discuss what's working and what's not. If something isn’t feeling right, we can adjust our approach together to ensure it meets your needs.
"What if I become dependent?"
People sometimes worry they’ll rely too much on therapy. At Sunflowerscounselling, the goal is empowerment and autonomy. Counselling aims to build your internal resilience, self-awareness, and coping strategies, helping you navigate life's challenges independently – not create dependency.
"What if I’m not ready?"
It's perfectly normal to feel unsure about timing. You set the pace for your therapy journey. There’s no pressure to dive into anything before you feel ready. We can explore your concerns about readiness in a safe, gentle way, as part of our person-centred approach.
Turn toward your light
At Sunflowerscounselling, we offer a space where you can gently turn towards clarity, resilience, and growth. Like a sunflower, you have the capacity to find your light, even in difficult seasons. Explore our services or learn more about us. We're glad you're here to be a part of your story.