Services

Helen specializes in the treatment of behavioural and emotional conditions in children aged from 4 years to 13 years and works from a family systems framework, which means that a consultation will usually also include one or both parents. For certain clinical conditions, individual child therapy may be indicated and this will be discussed with parents. A therapy session is for one hour – face-to-face or telehealth (video).

Therapy Methods

Forming a relaxed, ethical, trustworthy connection with a client of any age is the pathway to beginning therapy. However, children are often more reticent in meeting a new adult, particularly if they’re unsure what it will involve, and the ‘real’ reason their parent has suggested it. They are also not necessarily as skilled in reciprocal conversation particularly when reflecting on their emotional life and behaviour.

Therefore, psychological therapy often uses play and creative media such as drawing, sand, play with animal and people figures or role play with the therapist and/or parent. Conversation accompanies the activity and helps to explore what is occurring in the child’s life and what sense they are making of it. Solutions to challenges are explored, and in particular, skills identified that will help and which therapy can develop.

Fees

Helen is a registered Medicare Provider of Mental Health Services, which means that parent and/or child may be eligible for a Mental Health Care Plan through a GP.

For the relevant item numbers and rebates please refer to Page 4: 

Heading: M7 – Focused Psychological Strategies Services by Allied Health Providers or Better Access to Mental Health services

Helen is also a registered provider for all Health Funds with the following item numbers: