Your first session
If it's your first time in therapy or with Katie, don't worry we know it can be daunting. We've put together the key information you need to know before your first session.
First, pick your session type
For a more detailed list of potential reasons you may access Riverina Therapeutic Health please see
You can also contact Katie via email to arrange a quick 10 minute chat to make sure you are in the right place and she is the right therapist for you!
What to expect
Prior to your first appointment
Prior to your first appointment you will be e-mailed intake forms to complete. Completing these forms prior to your first appointment will ensure the best use of your session time on your first day.
Each appointment
Initial sessions will often go for 90 minutes. This allows time for you to get to know the therapist and for them to have a sound understanding of your concerns and your history. If you prefer, a one-hour appointment can be allocated for your initial assessment, although please be prepared that the assessment may need to be completed in a second consultation.
All repeat appointments will go for 50 minutes. At the end of the 50 minutes you will have time to pay for your session and re-book your next appointment.
If it looks like a session will go over time, the therapist will check with you that it is okay to continue. You will be charged $50 for an extra half an hour.
How many appointments you will need
This varies according to the individual/ couple. Some people may require just a couple of sessions to gain the information, resources and skills they need. Other people may require ongoing counselling for a longer length of time - after all, it can be challenging to change behaviors and address unhelpful thinking patterns.
Under medicare you can be given a referral for a Mental Health Treatment Plan and claim up to 10 sessions for mental health counselling. Mental health counselling includes therapy for sexual health (sex therapy).
For a diagnosed eating disorder you can be given a referral for a Eating Disorder Plan and claim up to 40 sessions for Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT-E) with a mental health social worker. Whilst working with your therapist you can also claim up to 20 sessions with an accredited practicing dietician to ensure you have comprehensive care.
Confidentiality
I don't share information from or about you, unless I think that someone is at risk of serious harm. In this instance, I would seek to discuss it with you first.
I work with a supervisor, to ensure my work is of the highest quality. They never know your name, or any details that would allow them to identify you. All reputable counsellors and therapists work with a supervisor, and this will be enshrined in the code of ethics and practice published by their accrediting body.
Costs and Medicare rebates
Fees include all administration for your appointments including regular letters to your doctor, consult with other medical professionals, and session planning.
It is expected that all appointments are paid on the day the appointment is held.
A Medicare rebate is available for all appointments if you have a Mental Health Treatment Plan. There is a gap charged on top of the Medicare rebate, please ask for the total fee on booking your appointment,
During the session if you require an additional half an hour, and if the therapist has capacity to provide this time, then they will ask if you would like to continue. The fee is an additional $50; no additional Medicare rebate is available.
NDIS
If you have a self-managed or managed plan your appointment can be charged under the NDIS. You will need to be able to provide your NDIS number and the contact details of whom to invoice. Appointments will be charged at the standard NDIS rate.
Low income earners
Please speak to your therapist upon booking if you are a low income earner to determine if you are eligible for a reduced rate. Please note this is only available to private practice clients.
Cancellations
Same day cancellation fee: Full fee is charged for same day cancellations or no-shows - if there are exceptional circumstances the cancellation fee will be waived.
Please cancel your appointment 48 hours prior to avoid a cancellation fee. This allows another person to take your appointment spot.
Medicare rebate eligibility
In order to receive a Medicare rebate, a doctor must first make an assessment that you need the services of a Mental Health Social Worker.
Your doctor will then write you a referral to the social worker. This referral is called a Mental Health Plan or an Eating Disorder Treatment Plan. A psychiatrist or paediatrician can also write this plan.
Please remember for couples undertaking sex therapy you both may require individual appointments. This will mean you both need to have individual mental health treatment plans to claim the Medicare rebate.
If you are unable to claim from Medicare, you may be able to claim a rebate from your private health insurer. This will depend on your provider and level of cover.
Is sex therapy covered by the NDIS?
The NDIS can fund sex therapist or a service that will assist you with family planning if it is directly related to your disability and considered "reasonable and necessary" with your NDIS funds.
Sex therapy is funded under Support Category 15: Improved Daily Living. NDIS can fund up to $193.99 per hour for either sex therapy or family planning.
You can come to the appointment by yourself, with a partner or with a carer.
Please remember, for some clients utilising assisted technology to communicate it can be useful to book a longer session (90 minutes) - this way the session can progress at the pace that suits you and will feel relaxed and comfortable.
Sex therapists can provide education on sexuality and sex, including how to provide and give consent for sexual activities. Sex therapists also provide lots of useful advice and guidance on how you can engage in sexual activity; either by yourself or with a partner. This may include modified positions or techniques. Sometimes specialised equipment may be necessary or suggested - you can apply for NDIS funding for this equipment with a letter from your sex therapist, however there are still restrictions on what will be covered.
If you are especially interested in family planning please speak to your therapist upon booking the appointment; there may be additional services and options available for you.
Book an appointment
You can book an appointment by either emailing through your request (link) or phoning Katie directly on 0403 215 172. Please keep in mind Katie may be in an appointment and will return your call as soon as possible between the hours of 9am-5pm
Please remember that if you would like a medicare rebate for your appointment you need a referral from your general practitioner or other health professional prior to your appointment.