What is sex therapy?

Counselling that addresses a person's psychological or physical sexual problems. There is no physical touching involved.

Why see a sex therapist?

Sex therapists have specialist training in how psychological, social and physiological factors affect sexuality and sexual functioning. Unlike some counsellors, as a sex therapist, I am comfortable hearing and speaking about sexual problems, accepting of people’s diverse sexual experiences and am non-judgemental. Not all counsellors feel at ease talking about sex so it is helpful knowing you can speak freely with me about topics that may seem embarrassing or awkward. My clients often tell me how grateful they feel to be able to speak openly and confidently about problems they are reluctant to share with others.

Do you offer relationship counselling?

No. I only offer individual sessions.

What happens in a therapy session?

I will use the first session to understand what you see the problems to be and take a sexual or psychosocial history to better appreciate what factors may be impacting on you. Together we identify what you would like to improve and how.

Sex therapy sessions are person centred meaning we focus on your experience of the problem and ability to resolve with appropriate support. I believe in the capacity of all people to find strength and meaning in their lives and by working through a range of solutions, positive outcomes can be achieved. The sessions are active, directive and goal orientated and require some commitment from you during the process as we exlore how limiting beliefs may be impacting your enjoyment of sexual pleasure.

Sex therapy often involves giving you some behavioural exercises to practice at home and can be a lot of fun! Counselling helps you to build better communication skills which can assist not only in your sex life but in other areas of your life as well. 

• How to better communicate
• Improving intimacy with behavioural tasks
• Your sexuality concerns
• Relaxation techniques to reduce anxiety
• Relationship specific tasks

What LGBTIQA+ concerns do you work with?

Research suggests that lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer and asexual (LGBTIQA+) people experience higher rates of stigma, discrimination, prejudice anxiety, depression and psychological distress. Seeing a therapist who has experience with and an appreciation of these issues can be helpful.

What areas do you work in?

• Same sex relationships
• Opening relationships 
• Polyamory
• Intimacy issues
• Developing relationship skills
• Sexual identity confusion
• Gender identity confusion
• Parenting and families
• Coming out
• Internet dating and hooking up
• BDSM and kink
• Compulsive behaviours involving substance use, sex and pronography  
• Workplace issues
• Stigma and discrimination
• Adjusting to HIV diagnosis and other STIs
• Sexual assault and abuse

How many sessions are needed?

Sometimes only one session is required to resolve difficulties whilst other issues are more complex and require several sessions. Short to mid-term counselling is suitable for most people and some like to come back for top up sessions every six months or yearly to check that things are ok with them and their relationships. After our first session I can give you an indication of how many sessions may be needed but ultimately you determine this depending on how you feel.

Do you offer counselling that is not sexually related?

Yes. In my role as a social worker I have supported people people dealing with:

• Trauma, grief & loss
• Depression, anxiety and mental health issues
• Substance dependency
• Family violence
• Psychosocial stressors
• Family & relationship issues
• Low self esteem
• Body image issues
• Financial concerns

Does my information remain confidential?

I am legally bound to keep your information confidential and not disclose it to others. There are certain situations however where I may have to share your information so you need to be mindful of this when telling me things during our sessions. Information will not remain confidential if:

• Failure to disclose the information would put you or another person at risk
• It is requested by a court
• You have given me prior approval to provide a written report to other professionals such as a GP or lawyer
• You have consented for me to discuss your information with another person such as your partner, parent, friend etc

What are your qualifications?

* Master of Science in Medicine (Sexual Health Counselling) - Sydney University

* Bachelor of Social Work - LaTrobe University

* Bachelor of Arts majoring in Journalism and Performing Arts - Deakin University 

* Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with the Australian Association of Social Workers, with a Medicare Provider Number able to offer rebates. 

* Accredited Clinical Psychosexual Therapist with the Society of Australian Sexologists.

I am the former National Chairperson and Executive Council Member of the Society of Australian Sexologists .

Do you work under a Code of Ethics?

Yes. I am bound by the code of ethics of the Society of Australian Sexologists Ltd. As a social worker, I am bound by the code of ethics of the Australian Association of Social Workers,  which ensures I act in an ethically accountable way and I comply with the Health Complaints Act 2016 (Vic) Code of Conduct.

How much does it cost?

$200 for a 50 minute session. Discounts available for holders of health care cards. Payment can be made via cash, direct deposit or credit card.

Do you offer rebates?

If you have a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP you can claim $82 per individual session up to 10 sessions in the calendar year. Members who have extra services cover with private health providers Bupa, Teachers Health, Unihealth and Nurses and Midwifes Health are eligible for rebates. 

Do I need a referral?

Yes if wanting to claim a Medicare rebate but it is not essential otherwise. If you do have a referral, however, please bring it to your first appointment as that may assist me to learn more about your situation. 

When are you available?

Monday Telehealth 10:30am-7pm

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday in-person and Telehealth sessions 10am-8pm