Your first appointment

What to expect from your first visit

Walking into a first session can feel daunting and that's completely understandable. Here's a gentle walk-through of exactly what happens, so you can arrive feeling a little more at ease.

50–120
minutes together
No
referral needed
2 ways
to meet with us
A welcoming therapy room with a green armchair, soft cushion, throw and warm lamplight, ready for a first session

Step by step

How your first appointment unfolds

From your first message to the moment you leave, here's the gentle rhythm of what happens with no surprises.

01

Before you arrive

Once you book, we'll send a short, simple intake form so we can get to know a little about you. There's no need to prepare anything just come as you are.

02

When you arrive

Settle into our calm waiting space. Your therapist will greet you warmly and walk you through what the session will look like.

03

During your session

This first conversation is gentle and unhurried. We'll listen, get to know what brings you here, and explore your goals only ever at your pace.

04

After your session

Together we'll shape a plan that feels right for you and, if you'd like, book your next session. There's never any pressure to continue.

A calm therapy room set up for both in-person and telehealth sessions, with a soft sofa and a tidy desk with a monitor

Wherever feels right

Two gentle ways to meet

Some people feel most comfortable in the quiet of our clinic; others prefer the familiarity of home. Whichever you choose, the care stays exactly the same warm, private, and unhurried.

In the clinic

A calm, private room in Picton where you can settle in, take your time, and feel completely at ease.

A Calm Beginning or You’re in Safe Hands

From the moment you arrive, our team is here to help you feel welcome. We’ll guide you through the check-in process before your clinician personally invites you into the therapy room.

A little preparation

What to bring along

Your intake form

Completed beforehand if possible, but we can always help you finish it when you arrive.

GP Referral

If you have a GP referral or Mental Health Treatment Plan, please bring it along though it’s not essential.

Supporting Documents

If you have any relevant reports or letters, please bring it along though it’s not essential.

An Open Mind or Just Be Yourself

There's nothing you need to rehearse. Just bring yourself and whatever feels comfortable to share, we’ll guide the conversation from there.

You're in safe hands

It's okay to feel however you feel

There's no such thing as being "ready" or having it all figured out. Your first session is simply a gentle starting point, and we'll take every step at a pace that feels comfortable for you.

  • You're in control, share only what feels right for you.
  • There are no right or wrong answers, just your own experiences and perspective.
  • Feeling nervous is completely normal, many people do before their first appointment.
  • Everything you share is private and confidential, providing a safe, respectful and judgement free space.

Good to know

Session length
50–120 minutes for your first visit.
In-person sessions
Held in a calm, private room at our Picton clinic.
Medicare rebates
Available with a Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP.

Easy to find in the heart of Picton, with parking close by.

Common questions

Before your first visit

Still wondering about something? Our friendly team are always happy to answer any questions before you come in.

The length of your first appointment depends on the type of service you’re attending. We’ll always let you know how long to allow when your appointment is booked.

  • Individual therapy: 50 minutes
  • Trauma therapy: Varies between 50 to 120 minutes, depending on your treatment approach
  • Relationship therapy: Varies between 90 to 120 minutes, depending on the therapy approach being used.

Whatever the length of your appointment, your clinician will take the time to understand your needs, answer your questions and help you feel comfortable moving forward.

No referral is needed to see us. However, if you'd like to access Medicare rebates, you'll need a Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP. If you're unsure, our friendly team are happy to talk you through your options.

That's completely normal, and you're not alone. Many people feel unsure before their first session. There's no pressure to have the right words or to share anything you're not ready for. Your therapist will gently guide the conversation and meet you exactly where you are.

We offer both in clinic and telehealth appointments, giving you the flexibility to choose the option that best suits your needs.

  • In clinic: If you choose to attend our Picton clinic, you’ll be welcomed into a calm space where you can settle in, take your time, and feel completely at ease. Convenient parking is close by to make arriving easy.
  • Telehealth: If you choose telehealth appointments, you’ll receive a secure video link before your session so you can connect from a place where you feel comfortable, private and relaxed.

There's no obligation to continue. If it feels right for you, we'll work together to shape a plan and book your next session at a pace that suits you. The choice is always entirely yours.

Ready to take the first step?

When you feel ready, we're here gently, patiently, and without judgement. Reach out and we'll help you find a time that works for you.

Call us02 4602 7111