Please reach me at info@rensolomoncounselling.com.au if you cannot find an answer to your question.
Beginning counselling can feel like a big step, especially if you’re unsure what to expect or whether counselling is right for you.
Below are answers to some common questions. If there’s anything else you’d like to know, you’re welcome to contact me either by clicking the link below or by email: info@rensolomoncounselling.com.au
Yes.
Many people start counselling without having a clear reason or diagnosis. You might simply notice that you feel overwhelmed, stuck, exhausted, anxious, or not quite like yourself.
Counselling can help you explore what’s happening, better understand yourself, and identify what support or changes may help.
I provide counselling for adults and young people aged 15+.
I support people experiencing a range of challenges including:
Sessions are available in person in Malvern and online across Australia.
No.
You do not need a GP referral or mental health care plan to book an appointment.
You are welcome to contact me directly.
No.
Medicare rebates are currently only available for certain mental health professionals under a Mental Health Treatment Plan and do not apply to counselling sessions.
The first session is about getting to know you and understanding what has brought you to counselling.
We might talk about:
There is no pressure to share everything immediately. We work at a pace that feels comfortable for you.
Both.
Sometimes people need space to talk, reflect, and feel understood.
Other times, practical tools and strategies are helpful.
My approach combines compassionate support with practical strategies tailored to your needs.
ADHD-informed counselling means understanding how ADHD-related challenges can affect everyday life, including:
ADHD-informed counselling recognises how differences in attention, regulation, and executive functioning can affect mental health, relationships, work, and self-esteem.
Support focuses on understanding your experiences, building practical strategies, and reducing self-criticism.
No.
Many people seek counselling because they relate to ADHD traits or executive functioning challenges, even without a formal diagnosis.
Counselling can support your lived experience regardless of whether you have been diagnosed.
No.
As a counsellor, I do not diagnose medical or mental health conditions.
My role is to support your emotional wellbeing, help you understand your experiences, and work with you to develop strategies and coping skills.
Diagnosis and medical assessment should be discussed with an appropriate healthcare professional.
No.
Although I worked as a pharmacist for almost 20 years, counselling sessions are not pharmacy consultations and I do not provide medication advice.
My healthcare background allows me to understand the connection between mental health, physical health, and medication experiences while supporting you within a counselling framework.
Medication decisions should always be discussed with your treating doctor or pharmacist.
Yes.
I work with young people aged 15+ experiencing challenges such as anxiety, stress, emotional overwhelm, ADHD-related difficulties, confidence, school pressures, and life transitions.
For young people, parent involvement depends on the individual situation, age, preferences, and goals of counselling.
Maintaining trust and confidentiality is important, while also recognising the role of parents and caregivers in supporting young people.
We can discuss this together.
Yes.
For in-person clients, sessions with Woof may be available by request.
Some people find having a calm animal presence helps the counselling environment feel more relaxed and comfortable.
Therapy dog sessions are optional and discussed beforehand.
Yes.
What you share in counselling is confidential.
There are some legal and ethical exceptions, such as situations involving risk of harm or safety concerns, which we will discuss before beginning counselling.
Sessions are 50 minutes.
How often you attend depends on your needs, goals, and circumstances. Some people prefer weekly sessions initially, while others attend less frequently.
Please provide at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule.
Late cancellations or missed appointments may incur the session fee, as that time has been reserved for you.
Ren Solomon Counselling is not a crisis service.
If you are in immediate danger, call 000.
For immediate support:
You’re welcome to get in touch to book an appointment or arrange a free 15-minute consultation.
You don’t need to know exactly what you need before reaching out — we can start there together.