Our Locations
We have practices across Sydney, the coast and the Illawarra, and online. You can also access counselling through Zoom, Teams or Meet.
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St Leonards
Suite 3, Level 4/66 Pacific Highway
St Leonards NSW 2065
T:(02) 8004 9966 View details
Ryde
Suite 7, 117 North Road
Ryde NSW 2112
T:(02) 8004 9966 View details
West Ryde
79 Ryedale Rd
West Ryde NSW 2114
T:(02) 8004 9966 View details
Online
Teams - Zoom - Meet
Online
T:(02) 8205 0566 View details
Cronulla
Level 1, 26-32 Ewos Parade
Cronulla NSW 2230
T:(02) 8004 9961 View details
Earlwood
Boomerang Ave
Earlwood NSW 2206
T:(02) 8004 9969 View details
Glebe
1 Arundel St
Glebe NSW 2037
T:(02) 8094 1796 View details
Elizabeth Street
411/185 Elizabeth St
Sydney NSW 2000
T:(02) 8205 0566 View details
Miranda
29 Kiora Road
Miranda NSW 2228
T:(02) 8004 9960 View details
Surry Hills
302/88 Foveaux St
Surry Hills NSW 2010
T:(02) 8094 1790 View details
Bondi Junction
404/332 Oxford Street
Bondi Junction NSW 2022
T:(02) 8094 1792 View details
Parramatta
26 Marion Street
Parramatta NSW 2150
T:(02) 8897 0803 View details
Castle Hill
Suite 14, 15-17 Terminus St
Castle Hill NSW 2154
T:(02) 8090 0817 View details
Caringbah
Level 1, 418 Kingsway
Caringbah NSW 2229
T:(02) 8094 1799 View details
Erina Central Coast
Suite 10, 166A The Entrance Rd
Erina NSW 2250
T:(02) 8004 5170 View details
Dapto
Laver Road
Dapto NSW 2530
T:(02) 4210 6170 View details
Wollongong
81 Keira St
Wollongong NSW 2500
T:(02) 4210 6170 View details
Macquarie Street
504/135-137 Macquarie St
Sydney NSW 2000
T:(02) 8205 0566 View details
Cabramatta

Cabramatta West NSW 2166
T:(02) 8897 0803 View details
Campbelltown
3/167 Queen St
Campbelltown NSW 2650
T:(02) 8897 0811 View details
Dulwich Hill
Challis Ave
Dulwich Hill NSW 2203
T:02 8004 9963 View details
Lilyfield
1/358 Catherine St
Lilyfield, NSW 2040
T:(02) 8007 7337 View details
North Strathfield
Level 1/5 George St
North Strathfield NSW 2137
T:(02) 8004 9964 View details
Norwest
Suite 20/1 Maitland Place
Norwest NSW 2153
T:(02) 8820 0717 View details
Stanhope Gardens
1 View St
Stanhope Gardens NSW 2768
T:(02) 8820 0717 View details
Beecroft
Karril Ave
Beecroft NSW 2119
T:(02) 8820 0717 View details
Bella Vista
Q Central Building, Suite 208A, 10 Norbrik Drive
Bella Vista NSW 2153
T:(02) 8820 0717 View details
Hornsby
202/16 Hunter St
Hornsby NSW 2077
T:(02) 8004 9965 View details
Northbridge
343 Sailors Bay Rd
Northbridge NSW 2063
T:(02) 8094 1793 View details
Chatswood
54/47 Neridah St
Chatswood NSW 2067
T:(02) 8004 8510 View details
Mosman
The Cottage, 44 Avenue Road
Mosman NSW 2088
T:(02) 8897 0810 View details
Cremorne
4/350 Military Rd
Cremorne NSW 2090
T:(02) 8897 0810 View details
Lane Cove
Room 3, 67 Burns Bay Rd
Lane Cove NSW 2066
T:(02) 8002 1201 View details
Narrabeen
9/12 Rickard Rd
North Narrabeen NSW 2101
T:(02) 8404 0622 View details
Dee Why (Narraweena)
Mundara Place
Narraweena NSW 2099
T:(02) 8404 0622 View details
Kogarah
Suite 5.01, Level 5, 15 Kensington Street
Kogarah NSW 2217
T:(02) 8897 0806 View details
Gosford
54 Hills St
North Gosford NSW 2250
T:(02) 8094 1785 View details
(02) 8205 0566
Mon-Fri: 9:00am - 6:00pm
Booking Request
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    We have received your enquiry.

    We will call you today to discuss your enquiry. normally within 2 hours.

    We offer each caller a personalised service to help you to make an informed choice about counselling. Part of our service is to take the time to answer your important questions and to help you decide on the practitioner who is best suited to your needs.

    On busier days there may be a delay. Please wait as we will call you and intend to offer you our full attention and assistance within 24 hours.

    With ‘Associated Counsellors’ you are in good hands assured that your therapist is professionally registered and bound by a code of professional ethics and conduct.

    depression counselling
    Depression

    Depression amongst the elderly

    Counselling, in person or online.

    • Depression amongst the elderly is a serious and common problem as our population ages.
    • There are multiple reasons why we develop depression as we get older but it is commonly to do with the increased rate of significant life change that people experience as they age.
    • Common changes include the loss of a life partner, chronic or substantial health issues, and moving from independent living to supported care.

    Depression and aging

    Depression is one of the most commonly diagnosed mental health issues in Australia and in other industrialised countries, and can affect people of all ages. More recently, however, psychologists and counsellors are reporting a greater prevalence of depression in elderly patients.

    Read more

    This is perhaps not surprising, as Australia’s aging population is a well-known fact of our times. Indeed, the Department of Health and Aging estimates that the rate of major depressive disorders amongst the elderly is likely to double to approximately 14 percent by the year 2012, due primarily to our aging population.

    We see people for depression at our Ryde, Stanhope Gardens, Dulwich Hill, Hornsby and Elizabeth Street practices, and online.

    Signs to notice

    Is this you?

    • Feeling down or depressed for most of the day
    • Reduced interest in activities previously enjoyed
    • Weight loss or gain without intention
    • Problems with sleep
    • Feeling restless and irritable

    Clinicians offering depression counselling

    Neri

    Neri

    Counsellor & Relationship Therapist

    CabramattaOnline

    Neri is a Masters-qualified counsellor and psychotherapist with over 10 years experience working with both individuals and couples. Compassionate and insightful, Neri empowers her clients to transform their lives and relationships.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓After hours ✓Vietnamese ✓

    Phone bookings weekdays 9am-6pm02 8205 0566
    Book with Neri
    Jenna

    Jenna

    Accredited Mental Health Social Worker & Couple Therapist

    West RydeOnline

    Jenna is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with over 15 years' experience across government health services and private practice. Warm and trauma-informed, Jenna works with individuals and couples to build safety, understanding and stronger connection, and build more secure connections with themselves and others.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓After hours ✓

    Phone bookings weekdays 9am-6pm02 8205 0566
    Book with Jenna
    Howard

    Howard

    Registered Psychologist

    NarraweenaOnline

    Howard is a Registered Psychologist with over 25 years experience working with individuals, couples and families. He uses a practical but supportive approach, aiming to assist his clients to achieve their goals as quickly as possible.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓Weekends ✓

    Phone bookings weekdays 9am-6pm02 8205 0566
    Book with Howard
    Naomi

    Naomi

    Psychologist & Couples Counsellor

    Bondi JunctionOnline

    Naomi is a Registered Psychologist with over 20 years experience. Warm, empathetic and client-centred, Naomi works with individuals and couples to draw on their strengths to overcome difficulties. She is Gottman certified.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓

    Jennifer

    Jennifer

    Counsellor & Relationship Therapist

    Castle HillOnline

    Jennifer is a Masters-qualified counsellor with many years of experience. Collaborative and process-orientated, Jenny works with both individual and couples clients to develop healthier relationships with themselves and with others.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓After hours ✓

    Christine

    Christine

    Counsellor & Relationship Therapist

    Lane Cove

    Christine is a tertiary-qualified counsellor with over 20 years experience working with individuals and couples. She emphasises a collaborative approach to therapy, working with the client as an active partner in their treatment.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓Weekends ✓

    Neera

    Neera

    Registered Psychotherapist

    Surry Hills

    Neera is a Masters-qualified psychotherapist. Empathetic, thoughtful and intuitive, Neera works with individuals to strengthen their identity and reshape patterns.

    Individuals ✓

    Petra

    Petra

    Registered Counsellor

    RydeOnline

    Petra is a highly skilled, tertiary-qualified counsellor with almost 10 years experience supporting clients' mental health. Insightful and altruistic, Petra creates a safe space to support her clients to lead more fulfilling lives.

    Individuals ✓After hours ✓

    Paul

    Paul

    Registered Psychologist

    St LeonardsOnline

    Paul is a Registered Psychologist and SIRA-accredited practitioner with a background in the corporate space. Empathetic and personable, Paul is dedicated to supporting meaningful change in the lives of his clients.

    Individuals ✓After hours ✓

    Atia

    Atia

    Counsellor & Relationship Therapist

    GlebeOnline

    Atia is a degree-qualified counsellor with over 15 years experience working with individuals and couples. Compassionate and supportive, Atia supports her clients to develop self-awareness, empowering them to improve their wellbeing.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓Weekends ✓Czech ✓

    David

    David

    Clinical Psychologist

    Stanhope GardensOnline

    David is a Masters-qualified Clinical Psychologist. Warm, authentic and non-judgemental, David supports his clients by carefully attuning to their needs, and imparting practical skills to build emotional insight and wellbeing.

    Individuals ✓After hours ✓

    Wade

    Wade

    Counsellor & Psychotherapist

    CaringbahOnline

    Wade is a tertiary-qualified Registered Counsellor with almost a decade of experience across hospital, community and private-practice settings. Warm and grounded, Wade works with individuals, creating a trusting space to allow for deep reflection.

    Individuals ✓After hours ✓

    Jonathan

    Jonathan

    Registered Counsellor

    NorwestOnline

    Jonathan is a tertiary-qualified counsellor with over 10 years experience working with adults and adolescents. Authentic and compassionate, Jonathan provides practical support, equipping clients with the skills and capacity to be their best.

    Individuals ✓Weekends ✓

    Mike

    Mike

    Clinical Psychologist & Couple Counsellor

    Online

    Mike has a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and over 20 years experience working with individuals and couples. His success as a counsellor is consistently demonstrated by the deep clinical relationship he has with clients.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓After hours ✓

    Sue

    Sue

    Registered Counsellor

    Surry Hills

    Sue is a Masters-qualified counsellor. Compassionate and authentic, Sue supports individuals to better understand the interplay between their internal world and their external relationships.

    Individuals ✓After hours ✓

    Dinah

    Dinah

    Registered Counsellor

    Sydney CBDOnline

    Dinah is a degree-qualified counsellor with almost 10 years experience. Empathetic and optimistic, Dinah works in partnership with her clients, empowering them to bring about positive change and feel happier in their lives.

    Individuals ✓After hours ✓

    Revi

    Revi

    Counsellor & Relationship Therapist

    Bondi JunctionOnline

    Revi holds a Master of Social Work (Counselling) and has over 20 years experience counselling both individuals and couples. Compassionate and client-centred, Revi is passionate about helping her clients navigate life’s challenges.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓After hours ✓Hebrew ✓

    Graciela

    Graciela

    Counsellor & Relationship Therapist

    DaptoOnline

    Graciela is a Masters-qualified counsellor with over 15 years experience working with individuals and couples. With a gentle approach, Graciela helps her clients develop awareness and gain control of their lives and relationships.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓Weekends ✓Spanish ✓

    Megan

    Megan

    Counsellor & Relationship Therapist

    St LeonardsNarrabeenOnline

    Megan is a Registered Counsellor with extensive experience supporting individuals and couples. Warm and empathetic, Megan uses an evidence-based, person-centred approach to help clients gain insight and create meaningful change. She is also an Accredited Mediator.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓After hours ✓

    Claire

    Claire

    Counsellor & Relationship Therapist

    Sydney CBDOnline

    Claire is a Masters-qualified Registered Counsellor and Psychotherapist working with individuals and couples on relationships, attachment and emotional wellbeing. Warm and collaborative, she creates a supportive space for clients to work through what feels difficult, at their own pace.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓Weekends ✓

    Laura

    Laura

    Counsellor & Relationship Therapist

    CronullaOnline

    Laura is a Masters-qualified counsellor with extensive experience. Known for her warm and grounded presence, Laura helps individuals, couples and parents to uncover their own capacity for healing and meaningful change.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓Weekends ✓

    Rose

    Rose

    Counsellor & Couple Therapist

    Sydney CBDOnline

    Rose is a Masters-qualified counsellor and Registered Mental Health Social Worker with over 20 years experience. Working with both individuals and couples, Rose empowers her clients to enhance their wellbeing and achieve their goals.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓

    Silvia

    Silvia

    Registered Counsellor

    MosmanOnline

    Silvia is a Registered Counsellor & Psychotherapist with qualifications in counselling, psychology and Somatic Experiencing®. Compassionate and supportive, Silvia works with individuals to manage life’s challenges.

    Individuals ✓After hours ✓

    Di

    Di

    Counsellor & Psychotherapist

    Online

    Di is a Masters-qualified counsellor with over 10 years private practice experience. Empathic and collaborative, she works alongside her clients to make sense of what they are facing and find a way forward.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓

    Daniela

    Daniela

    Registered Psychologist

    BeecroftOnline

    Daniela is a Registered Psychologist with over 20 years’ experience. Warm, empathetic and deeply humanistic, she creates a space where clients feel genuinely heard, challenged and empowered to make meaningful change.

    Individuals ✓Weekends ✓Portuguese ✓

    Gaul

    Gaul

    Accredited Mental Health Social Worker & Relationship Counsellor

    CampbelltownOnline

    Gaul is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with over 17 years experience supporting individuals, couples and families, in hospital settings and private practice. Transparent, curious and collaborative, he works in partnership with his clients.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓

    John

    John

    Counsellor & Relationship Therapist

    Online

    John is a tertiary-qualified counsellor and one of our most experienced therapists. John works with individuals and couples to build awareness of the patterns behind their decisions and lead more empowered and fulfilling lives. He is Gottman qualified.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓

    Peter

    Peter

    Psychologist & Couples Counsellor

    Castle Hill

    Peter is a Registered Psychologist who works with individuals and couples. Practical and empathetic, Peter helps clients uncover what drives their thoughts and feelings, so they can trade self-judgement for self-compassion and make lasting change.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓

    Andrea

    Andrea

    Psychologist & Couples Counsellor

    Chatswood

    Andrea is a Registered Psychologist with over 20 years experience working with individuals and couples. Andrea helps her clients process and regulate their emotions, working with mind and body to sustain long-lasting change.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓Weekends ✓German ✓

    Chris

    Chris

    Counsellor & Psychotherapist

    Surry HillsOnline

    Chris is a Masters-qualified Counsellor and Psychotherapist who works with individuals and couples. Open and empathetic, Chris draws on his clients’ curiosity, creativity and inherent strengths to make a meaningful and empowering difference in their lives.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓After hours ✓

    Sharon

    Registered Psychologist

    HornsbyOnline

    Sharon is a Registered Psychologist with over 15 years experience. Curious and supportive, Sharon looks beneath the distress rather than settling on a label, helping clients understand themselves and make lasting change.

    Individuals ✓After hours ✓

    Pauline

    Counsellor & Relationship Therapist

    ErinaOnline

    Pauline is a Registered Counsellor with almost 20 years of experience in both New Zealand and Australia. Warm and caring, Pauline works with individuals, couples and families, helping them build understanding and stronger connections.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓Weekends ✓

    Daniel

    Counsellor & Relationship Therapist

    Bondi JunctionOnline

    Daniel is a tertiary-qualified counsellor with over 10 years of experience, working with both individuals and couples. Easy to talk to and quick to build trust, Daniel recognises each person’s strengths and helps them gain greater agency in their lives.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓After hours ✓

    Alexandra

    Counsellor & Relationship Counsellor

    EarlwoodOnline

    Alexandra is a degree-qualified counsellor and relationship therapist with 15 years of experience across government and not-for-profit services. Accepting and down-to-earth, Alexandra works with individuals and couples, inviting clients to come as they are and work towards meaningful change.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓Weekends ✓Greek ✓

    David

    Psychologist & Executive Coach

    Surry HillsOnline

    David is a Registered Psychologist with more than 20 years of experience working with leaders and the organisations they run. Thoughtful and attentive, David helps his clients reconnect with a sense of purpose and belonging.

    Individuals ✓Weekends ✓

    Ali

    Counsellor & Couples Therapist

    ParramattaOnline

    Ali is a Masters-qualified counsellor with over 15 years of experience. Calm and compassionate, Ali works with individuals and couples, helping them feel safe, understood and better equipped to move forward.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓Weekends ✓Arabic ✓

    Irene

    Counsellor & Relationship Therapist

    Sutherland

    Irene is a degree-qualified counsellor and psychotherapist with 20 years experience working with individuals, couples and parents. Warm, grounded and practical, Irene helps her clients reconnect with their emotions and relationships in ways that feel manageable.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓

    Theodora

    Psychologist & Relationship Counsellor

    Dulwich HillOnline

    Theodora is a Registered Psychologist with over 10 years of experience, working with both individuals and couples. Warm and compassionate, Theodora helps her clients make sense of their experiences and build stronger, more secure relationships.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓Weekends ✓Greek ✓

    See all our clinicians

    Not sure who to choose?

    Call 02 8205 0566

    Weekdays 9am to 6pm, a person answers

    Request a callback

    After hours, or any time

    Why people choose us

    How we help you find the right clinician

    We have practices across Sydney, the coast and the Illawarra, and a full telehealth team. Our intake specialists know who works with what, and they will point you to the right person, whether that is near home, near work or online.

    Step 1

    A person answers the phone

    Call us weekdays between 9am and 6pm and one of our intake team picks up. They will ask what is going on and talk you through the options before you commit to anything.

    Step 2

    We match you to a clinician

    The fit between you and your therapist is the strongest thing we know of for making therapy work. We match on what you are facing, the approach you prefer, gender, language and how far you can travel.

    Step 3

    Your booking is scheduled

    We confirm your booking in writing so that you know when and where you’ll be meeting your new therapist.

    The guide

    Why do the elderly get depressed?

    As mentioned above, depression is the single most prevalent mental health issue faced by Australians. Whilst clinical depression has numerous and varying causes, it is not uncommon for depression to be trigger or fueled by significant changes in our life circumstances.

    Whilst our lives may be subject to change at any age, significant life changing events do tend to become more common as we age.
    So what type of change, in particular, might cause depression amongst the older or more elderly members of our population?

    Retirement

    Australians commonly retire from work (or substantially reduce their working hours) at around 60 years of age. Whilst some people revel in the luxury of time afforded by retirement, for many of us, retirement from a long held job or career can leave us feeling bored and unsure of how to occupy our time.

    Retirement can also lead people to feel insignificant as if they are no longer contributing to society in a valuable way. The financial constraints of retirement can also place pressure on the elderly.

    Illness and Frailty

    Depression amongst the elderly is not uncommon when the body is affected by illness or disease.

    For many older people, their minds are still active and they may feel like they are much younger, but illness, pain and physical limitations press them down to the point where they begin to feel as if they would rather not participate in life than face the rest of their years with a body that is breaking down, particularly if faced with chronic illnesses like diabetes, arthritis, spinal defects, heart problems and other health issues.

    In any event, as people age, their bodies and minds age with them, and some loss of either physical and/or mental capacity is almost inevitable as we get older.

    Frailty of body or mind can hinder our ability to participate in activities we love, it can limit our capacity to socialize and connect with family and friends like we used to, and can severely restrict our independence and sense of self. (This article is electronically protected, Copyright © Associated Counsellors & Psychologists Sydney PTY LTD)

    An aging or ill partner

    One of the great dilemmas of old age is that people are often forced to look after their sick partners at a time in their lives where their bodies are also aging and tired. Caring for a sick partner when you are elderly yourself can be extremely stressful on an aging body. A common example is the case of caring for a person with Alzheimer’s.

    This devastating illness robs the victim of their memories, even if they are otherwise physically relatively healthy. Having a life partner with this kind of horrific illness can be a source of mental anguish and physical exhaustion for the partner who does not have the illness, but emotionally still feels connected to a person they love and care for deeply.

    Death of a long-time partner

    As we get older, companionship becomes more and more important to us. For couples who have been life partners for many years, the loss of a loved one can become a triggering event for them to become extremely depressed. Suddenly, the person you shared the most of your life with, the person you shared your hopes and dreams with and who you had so many life experiences with is gone.

    In addition to obvious feelings of sadness and grief, the death of a partner in old age might herald the first time in years that an elderly person has lived alone, without companionship, and this can be an extremely daunting and lonely prospect for an aging person.

    Moving into Supported Living

    A very significant and emotionally charged life change common to many elderly people is the move from independent living into a Retirement Village or Nursing Home. Whilst some level of supported living might be necessary and beneficial for an elderly person, it is also signals a substantial loss of independence for that person or at least the perception of lost independence.

    Often, it also means leaving a long-term family home, where the person may have lived with their partner and children for many years. This can be a huge change for an elderly person to accept and adapt to.

    All these are examples of significant changes which commonly affect people’s lives as they age. They way in which people are equipped to accept and adapt to these changes will vary, and for some, the changes can be overwhelming. For these people, the onset of clinical depression during old age is a real threat.

    What are the symptoms of depression in the elderly?

    The symptoms of depression are a combination of several different behaviours and emotions and are not dissimilar to common depression. The most common symptoms of depression or depressed behaviour are:

    • Feeling down or depressed for most of the day, every day, for a minimum period of two weeks.  This can include feeling sad and empty or aimless.
    • Reduced interest in activities previously enjoyed.  This can include hobbies you used to engage in (bowling, golfing, playing bridge, etc) or socializing with friends.
    • Weight loss or gain without intention.  Changes in appetite often contribute to changes in weight, including eating substantially more than normal or lack of interest in eating and food.
    • Problems with sleep, including sleeping much more than normal or problems going to sleep or staying asleep.  This can include waking up and not being able to go back to sleep, or feeling anxious when trying to go to sleep.
    • Feeling restless and irritable.
    • Unusual fatigue or feeling tired most of the time, although this is not an uncommon symptom of the ageing body.
    • Feeling worthless, feeling unreasonable or inappropriate feelings of guilt; this can happen especially if a life partner has become ill or died.
    • Problems thinking, including problems with concentration or suddenly having problems making decisions or being unusually indecisive (Note: this can be a common symptom of Alzheimer’s Disease or another form of dementia).
    • Thinking too much about death, including feelings and thoughts of hurting yourself or suicide.

    A combination of these symptoms is required in order to be diagnosed with depression and the symptoms need to be dire enough that they significantly impair the ability to function and participate in regular life activities. (This article is electronically protected, Copyright © Associated Counsellors & Psychologists Sydney PTY LTD)

    How is depression amongst the elderly treated?

    Depression is best and most effectively treated with counselling from a professional counsellor or psychologist, although this is often done in combination with medication, especially in cases where an elderly person is depressed. The purpose of taking antidepressants is that they help with concentration and thinking abilities so that it becomes possible to begin functioning again.

    Note that medication can only be prescribed by a medical practitioner (GP or Psychiatrist) and is ideally taken under close monitoring and in conjunction with some kind of counselling. Working with a professional counsellor will help allow you or your loved one identify the reasons for becoming depressed and talk about how life has changed.

    Counsellors are compassionate, empathetic listeners who help clients struggling with depression learn how to continue to value their life experiences and memories, while at the same time learning better and healthier coping skills for their current life circumstances.

    If I think I’m depressed, what do I do?

    If you believe you, your partner or relative may be having problems with depression or other mood issues, consider contacting us to book a consultation with a qualified counsellor or would like to obtain further advice please contact Associated Counsellors & Psychologists Sydney.

    Questions

    Questions about depression

    Before you book

    Do I need a referral?

    No referral is needed to start. For Medicare rebates, ask your GP about a Mental Health Treatment Plan. Please speak to our team about your options.

    How soon can I get an appointment?

    Most new clients are seen within days, sooner by telehealth. Many of our practices offer early morning, evening and weekend appointments, and our intake team will find the times that suit you.

    Can I see someone in person or online?

    Yes, you can choose either. You can see a clinician at one of our practices across Sydney, the coast and the Illawarra, or by video from anywhere in Australia, and many clients switch between the two.

    What happens in the first session?

    Your clinician listens to what’s brought you in, asks about your goals, and agrees to a plan with you. There is never any pressure to share more than you’re ready to.

    What are the fees, and can I claim Medicare?

    Sessions run for 55 minutes, and the fee depends on who you see. Counsellors start from $150, social workers and psychologists from $200, and clinical psychologists from $230. With a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan, a Medicare rebate may apply to sessions with a psychologist or a registered mental health social worker, so please speak to our staff about your options.

    Fees & rebates

    Clear fees, no surprises

    Counsellors

    From $150per 55-minute session
    No referral needed · start straight away

    Social workers

    From $200per 55-minute session
    Medicare rebate may apply, please speak to our staff

    Psychologists

    From $200per 55-minute session
    Medicare rebate may apply, please speak to our staff

    Clinical psychologists

    From $230per 55-minute session
    Medicare rebate may apply, please speak to our staff

    Every clinician is fully registered and insured, and bound by their professional association's Code of Ethics, as our counsellor guarantee sets out.

    How to get started, and how Medicare can help
    Pathway A · Start now
    Book directly
    • No referral needed, so you can start straight away.
    • No Medicare rebate on this path.
    • You can still get a plan from your GP later and start claiming Medicare then. If a rebate matters, ask for a psychologist.
    Pathway B · With Medicare
    See your GP
    • Your GP assesses you. If you are eligible you get a Mental Health Treatment Plan.
    • The plan lets you claim Medicare rebates.
    • Tell us you have a plan and ask for a psychologist or registered mental health social worker when you book.
    • The rebate only applies to services provided by psychologists or registered mental health social workers.

    Not sure which suits you? Speak to our team about your options.

    Getting started

    From first call to first session

    Book with Sydney’s most trusted network
    With a wealth of experience and a board of certified professionals, you know you’re in safe hands.

    Call us, or ask us to call youMon to Fri 9am to 6pm a live intake specialist answers. No referral needed.
    We listen and matchBy concern, therapy style, gender, language and location across our practices and telehealth.
    Your first sessionIn person at a practice near you or by video, with evening and weekend times available.
    Review the fitIf it doesn't feel right, tell us, we'll rematch you quickly.
    Reviews

    What clients say about getting matched

    4.8
    189 Google reviews across our 20 practice listings
    Counted 7 October 2026. Read them all on Google
    ★★★★★

    Appointment options were discussed and opportunities were more readily available than expected. I was able to make an appointment by phone and was given details if the counsellor immediately.

    Philip A. · February 2023 · Google review, Northbridge practice
    ★★★★★

    The team at Associated Counsellors have been very professional and helpful throughout my booking experience. The staff are friendly and more than willing to help in anyway. Highly recommend

    Jodie E. · September 2026 · Google review, Castle Hill practice
    ★★★★★

    Amazingly fast service. Put me in contact with a Dr within 2 days. Some other waiting lists were up to 6 months! Not ideal when help is required.

    Graeme K. · December 2022 · Google review, Dee Why practice

    Reviews are shown as written, about our booking and matching service.

    We are not a crisis service. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 000. For 24/7 support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
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