FAQs

Need help or looking for more information?

Here is a list of commonly asked questions to help support you before our first consultation. If your question is not featured here, please contact me via email.

How do I make an appointment?

You can make an appointment with me by emailing me at namrata@reconnectcounselling.co.nz. Alternatively, you can submit a form here.

How do I know if I need to see a counsellor?

It may be that you’ve noticed some changes in your behaviour or you may be facing some tough times. Below are some examples that may be an indicator that it’s time to reach out for help.

You may have become more irritable, feel you are not coping, become constantly angry, sullen, withdrawn, sad, weepy, or go into spells of silence for long times. There may be other changes - you don’t feel like yourself anymore.
When circumstances or behaviour towards you becomes unacceptable or intolerable.
When you feel unable to manage your relationships or function effectively.
When you feel you are not coping with a change or trauma in your life.

What will my friends and whānau think?

Counselling is nothing to fear or feel ashamed about. People from all walks of life attend counselling. Telling those people you trust that you are seeing a counsellor can be challenging sometimes, however, it may help them understand any changes you are making and why you are approaching things a certain way. It is often helpful to have someone to share and reflect on your experiences with.

What will happen in the first session?

In your first consultation, I am looking forward to just getting to know who you are and what you want out of your life, and things like family background, mental health history and general environment. We may go through some forms if you decide to continue and I will explain my professional duties around your confidentiality and consent.

Do I need a referral from my GP?

You do not need a referral to go to your therapy appointment with a counsellor.

How do I prepare for my first counselling session?

There is no need to prepare anything specific prior to your initial consultation. It can however be helpful to think about what you might want to talk about in the sessions. If you have areas you’d like to target, have a think about describing these.

How many sessions would I need?

The number of sessions you should have will vary hugely according to the individual, and the treatment plan we agree to go with. As a rule of thumb, meaningful life changes and genuine progress don’t occur within one 60-minute session, so think long-term about how counselling can help dig into long-held life patterns and change situations.

I do believe that long-term behavioral change starts with 4-6 sessions but is enriched (on average) by 8, 10, and beyond as required.

Can my appointment be online?

Yes. I realise not everyone can attend regular face-to-face counselling appointments, so online counselling sessions are available.

For an online counselling session, you will require access to either a computer, mobile phone, or tablet with a camera, microphone, and a good internet connection. You will also need to find a private place to talk. Contact me to find out if Online Counselling is right for you.

Do insurance companies cover my costs?

If you have a history of mental health symptoms or a diagnosed illness, your insurance company will ask questions about your diagnosis, what sort of treatment you've received, and how long you’ve had symptoms.
You may get one of these covers based on your history

Full cover for mental health issues
An exclusion for specified mental health issues
A deferral (or wait and see)

If you’re worried about what medical information you need to share with your insurer, get in touch with me. We can work together to figure out all the medical information you need to include.

Difference between a counsellor and a psychologist?

The difference between a counsellor and a psychologist is rooted in how they approach mental health care. Counsellors place an emphasis on prevention. We employ therapeutic techniques to help our clients avert and cope with mental and emotional health challenges including but not limited to issues such as substance abuse, family and marital problems, stress management, and self-esteem.

Psychologists on the other hand are more specialized. They assess and treat emotional and behavioural disorders through psychotherapy and analysis

Do you offer Sliding Scale Rates?

Yes. I am happy to discuss prices that suit your budget.

Fees

STANDARD

$130

1hr individual appointment

This is my standard rate for individual sessions - in-person or online

LEARN MORE

REDUCED RATE

To be discussed
(Sliding scale)