Question 1

What happens in a counselling session at Hills Relationship Centre?

Accepted Answer

At Hills Relationship Centre, our counselling sessions offer a private and supportive space where you can talk openly about what’s been happening in your life, at a pace that feels comfortable for you. There’s no expectation to have the right words or a clear starting point — the conversation unfolds together.
Your counsellor will begin by getting to know you and understanding what has brought you in. Together, you’ll explore what you’d like to feel different, and shape goals that feel meaningful and realistic. As your understanding grows, the focus of sessions can evolve with you.
We draw on a range of therapeutic approaches tailored to your needs and circumstances — whether you’re navigating stress, emotional challenges, relationship difficulties, life changes, or simply wanting greater clarity. Our aim is to help you make sense of your experiences, feel more steady in yourself, improve your relationships, and move toward change in a way that feels respectful and collaborative.
If you're new to counselling or are feeling a little unsure about where to begin, you can read more here: New to Counselling? Here's What to Expect

Question 2

How much do sessions cost and how long do they go for?

Accepted Answer

Individual and children’s counselling sessions are $160, and relationship or family counselling sessions are $230. While fees vary across the industry, we aim to keep our costs fair and accessible while supporting the level of care and attention each session provides.
All counselling sessions run for 60 minutes. This allows enough time to settle into the conversation without feeling rushed.
Payment is usually made at the end of each session, and we accept both card and cash.
For telehealth appointments or first sessions, payment may be processed in advance using the card details provided at booking.

Question 3

How do I book in?

Accepted Answer

You can book online through our booking system, or contact our client care team and we’ll organise it with you.
If you’re unsure who to see, we can help match you with a counsellor based on what you’re hoping for and what feels most comfortable.
We’ll then send you a short intake form to complete to secure your appointment.  This gives your counsellor helpful background information so your first session can focus on you, rather than paperwork.

Question 4

Do I need a referral to see a counsellor at Hills Relationship Centre?

Accepted Answer

One of the benefits of counselling with us is that you don’t need a GP referral or Mental Health Care Plan to get started. This means you can reach out whenever you feel ready. Many people seek support simply because life feels heavy, relationships feel strained, or they want things to work differently. Counselling can begin right there.

It also gives the process more flexibility. We’re not limited to a set number of sessions or tied to a clinical label, so we can work at a pace that actually fits you and your goals — whether that’s short-term support or deeper ongoing work.

In other words, you’re able to access help based on your needs, not a system.

Question 5

Do you accept the Mental Health Care Plan?

Accepted Answer

Mental Health Care Plans provide Medicare rebates for a limited number of individual sessions with a psychologist. As we are a specialisied counselling service, we’re unable to accept Mental Health Care Plans.
We find that our clients actually appreciate the flexibility this offers. Our sessions aren’t restricted by rebate limits or clinical requirements, allowing support to focus purely on your needs and goals.

Question 6

Are rebates available with Medicare or private health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Our team brings advanced training and extensive experience in relationship and family work, and our model prioritises depth, discretion, and personalised care. Due to the specialised service we provide, our sessions aren't rebate eligible.

We find that our clients actually appreciate the flexibility this allows. We are able to focus on the work itself, without diagnostic requirements or session caps, ensuring care is tailored to your needs.

Clients seeing Toni may be eligible to claim through Bupa.
Rebates are not available with Medicare, AHM, Medibank, or HCF.

Question 7

What is the difference between counselling and psychology?

Accepted Answer

Whilst psychology typically involves clinical assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of more complex or severe mental health conditions, counselling focuses on supporting people through life’s challenges — including stress, relationships, emotional wellbeing, family dynamics, and personal difficulties. Counsellors use a range of therapeutic approaches to help you understand your experiences, make sense of thoughts and feelings, and work toward meaningful change.
Many people seek counselling because they want support, clarity, or a different way forward in their life or relationships.

Question 8

How often should I attend and how many sessions will I need?

Accepted Answer

The frequency and length of counselling varies depending on what you’re hoping to work through.
Some people attend more frequently at the beginning to build momentum, while others prefer fortnightly, monthly, or more occasional sessions. Together with your counsellor, you’ll find a rhythm that feels supportive and manageable, and this can be adjusted as things change.
The total number of sessions is different for everyone. Some people notice meaningful progress over a short period, while others choose longer-term support as they continue to grow and reflect.
Counselling works best when sessions occur regularly enough for conversations to build on each other, so your counsellor may gently recommend a level of consistency that supports the changes you’re hoping for.

Question 9

How long will I have to wait for an appointment?

Accepted Answer

As a leading provider in the Hills District, our services are in high demand. Usually, you should be able to make an appointment within a week or so of contacting us, but high-demand times may have a waitlist. Booking in advance is recommended. You can book in and view our availability online by clicking here.

Question 10

Do you offer weekend or after-hours appointments? What about urgent appointments?

Accepted Answer

Our centre is closed on weekends. After-hours sessions are available, but extremely limited. While we will always do our best to accommodate your preferred day and time, there may be a wait before we are able to offer you an after-hours appointment.
Our services are provided by appointment only. If you need urgent or crisis support, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or your local acute care mental health team.

Question 11

Do you work with individuals or only couples? If my partner doesn't want to come, can I come on my own?

Accepted Answer

We work with individuals, couples, children, teens, and families, including those needing support after a relationship ends.
If your relationship needs help and your partner is not willing to attend relationship counselling at this stage, you can work with us on your own. While it is ideal if both partners attend relationship counselling, it is not completely necessary. You can still achieve excellent results attending relationship counselling without your partner being present.You will learn new tools and strategies that can help your relationship. When one person makes changes, it can and does change the dynamic in the relationship.

Question 12

Where are you located? Can we still work together if I don't live nearby?

Accepted Answer

Our office is located at 20/1 Maitland Place, Norwest, NSW 2153.
If you don't live locally or are unable to attend in person, we also offer counselling services online via Telehealth.

Question 13

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

We ask for at least 2 business days’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment.
Late cancellations or missed appointments incur the full session fee, as the time has been reserved especially for you.
For more details, please contact our team or review our policy.

Question 14

Is what I talk about kept confidential?

Accepted Answer

Confidentiality is a central part of counselling. It helps create a safe space where you can speak openly and build trust in the process.
Everything you share with us is kept private and confidential, with a few legal and safety exceptions. These include situations where there is a risk of serious harm to you or someone else, when records are subpoenaed, or where disclosure is otherwise required by law.
Your counsellor will also discuss this with you in more detail at the start of your initial session.

Hills Relationship Centre offers a supportive, inclusive environment where our dedicated team is committed to providing you with the best possible counselling experience. Our policy helps to ensure a respectful, empathetic, and therapeutic experience for every client, and answer any other questions you may have. Please take a moment to review our policy.

Frequently Asked Questions