Getting started
Your first session: what to expect.
It's normal to feel a bit nervous about a first appointment, especially if you've never done therapy before. Here's what your first session with Karen looks like, so there are fewer surprises.
The session
Fifty minutes, roughly like this.
A warm welcome
Karen greets you when you arrive, walks you through, offers a glass of water and gives you a moment to settle in.
The practical bits
A brief check on consent, confidentiality and what therapy notes look like, so you know how it all works.
Your story
Karen asks open questions about what brought you in, what's been happening and what you're hoping for. You lead the depth and pace.
Making sense together
Karen reflects back what she's heard, shares some early thoughts and asks if anything resonates or feels off.
A plan from here
We talk about whether to keep going, what cadence might suit and book a next session if it feels right.
Before you come
Please bring everything that applies to you.
The referral, plan and card details matter most. Without them on the day, we can't claim your Medicare, NDIS or private health rebate, so you'd pay the full session fee. If anything's missing or you're not sure what applies, get in touch before your session and we'll help sort it.
- ✓Your Mental Health Care Plan and GP referral, if you have one
- ✓Your Medicare card and any private health details
- ✓For NDIS: your plan dates and management type
- ✓Anything you've written down that you want to remember to mention
- ✓Comfortable clothes (therapy can feel quite physical at times)
When you arrive
The space and the practicalities.
- Address
- 19 Kerri St, Bundoora VIC 3083, ground floor, signed entry.
- Parking
- Free street parking on Kerri Street, plus accessible parking close to the entrance.
- Waiting area
- Open from 8.30am Mon and Wed. Help yourself to tea, water or a quiet seat by the window.
- Telehealth
- Sessions run via a secure link. We'll email it the day before, with tips on lighting and headphones.
Common worries
The things people often ask before a first session.
What if I cry?
Many people do, especially in the first session. Tissues are on the table. There's no pressure either way.
What if I don't know what to say?
That's very common. Karen will ask gentle questions and you can take your time. Silence is allowed.
Do I have to share everything?
No. You share what feels right, when it feels right. Therapy is a slow build of trust, not an interrogation.
What if Karen isn't the right fit?
It happens. After your first session, take a few days to sit with how it felt. If it's not right, Karen will happily help with a referral elsewhere.
"Connection is why we are here; it's what gives purpose and meaning to our lives."
– Brené Brown
Fees
$240 per session · $149.05 Medicare rebate · $90.95 out-of-pocket with a valid Mental Health Care Plan
A note from Karen
Seeking help takes courage. You don't need to have it all figured out. You don't need to be "sick enough" to deserve therapy. You just need to be ready to talk and willing to explore what might help. We'll meet you exactly where you are. No judgment, no pressure. See you soon.