How It Works
How Online Counselling Works
Starting counselling can feel like a big step, especially if you are not sure what to expect. This page is here to make the process feel clearer and more manageable, from booking your first session to what happens ongoing.
How to get started
No referral is needed. You can book directly or send an enquiry if you have a question first.
Book or enquire
Book a session directly online or send a contact enquiry if you have a question first. No referral is needed.
Receive forms + confirmation
Before your first appointment you will receive an Intake Form and an Informed Consent Form to complete and return. Completing these beforehand helps maximise session time, please email Leisa with any questions.
Attend your first session
For online sessions, join from a private space via the secure video link in your confirmation. For in-person sessions, attend at the Deception Bay address provided in your confirmation. The first session is focused and unhurried.
What sessions look like
Each stage of the process is designed to feel manageable, there is no expectation to share more than you are ready to.
Before your first session
No preparation is required. It can help to think about what has brought you to counselling, but you do not need to have everything worked out before you arrive.
Your first session
The first session focuses on getting to know you and understanding what has brought you here.
- What has brought you to counselling right now
- What support you are hoping for
- How you have been coping
- Important practical information, privacy, confidentiality, fees and your rights
There is no pressure to share more than you feel ready to. The first session is also a chance to see whether the fit feels right for you.
Ongoing sessions
Ongoing sessions are tailored to what you need. Some people attend for short-term support around a specific issue. Others choose longer-term work to explore patterns and changes over time. Sessions are reviewed as needed so the process stays responsive to your goals.
In-person sessions in Deception Bay, QLD
For clients in the Deception Bay area (north of Brisbane), in-person sessions are also available by appointment. The same approach and the same rates apply.
Therapeutic approaches
Leisa uses an integrative approach, drawing on a variety of evidence-informed methods to support what works best for you and what you are working through.
Emotion-Focused Therapy
Helps you understand and work through emotions safely. Often helpful for relationship difficulties, unresolved hurt, grief, and strong emotions.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Helps you notice patterns between thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. Useful for anxiety, low mood, and stress.
Humanistic Therapy
Centred on empathy and acceptance. Helpful for building self-esteem and strengthening your sense of self.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Supports you to respond differently to difficult thoughts and focus on what matters to you.
Narrative Therapy
Explores how you see yourself and your life, helping you step back from problems and see new possibilities.
Mindfulness and Body-Based Practices
Helps you become more aware of physical and emotional responses. Useful for stress and feeling overwhelmed.
Solution-Focused Therapy
Focuses on strengths and small practical steps. Helpful for goals, life changes, and building confidence.
Practical requirements for telehealth
Attending online is straightforward. You will need:
A stable internet connection
A standard home broadband or mobile connection is usually sufficient.
A private space
Somewhere you can speak freely without being overheard or interrupted.
A device with a camera and microphone
A laptop, tablet or smartphone with a working camera and audio.
Prefer in-person?
In-person counselling appointments are also available at LLP Counselling, Deception Bay.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a referral to book?
No. You can self-refer directly. Referrals from GPs and other health professionals are also accepted, but they are not required.
Do I need to prepare anything before the first session?
Before your first appointment, you will receive two short forms to complete and return: an Intake Form and an Informed Consent Form. Completing these beforehand helps maximise session time. Beyond that, no formal preparation is required, it can help to think about what has brought you to counselling, but you do not need to have everything worked out before you begin. If you have any questions, please feel welcome to email Leisa.
How long are sessions?
Sessions are typically 50 minutes. The initial consultation may run slightly longer to allow time to cover practical information about the counselling process.
How often should I attend?
Most people begin with weekly or fortnightly sessions. The frequency can be adjusted over time depending on your needs, goals and circumstances.
What if I feel nervous about meeting online?
That is very common. The process is designed to be calm and straightforward, and many people find the familiarity of home helps them settle more easily than attending an unfamiliar office.
What if I feel emotional in session?
That is okay. Counselling is a space where emotions can be expressed safely and thoughtfully, without judgement.
Will confidentiality be explained?
Yes. Confidentiality and its limits are discussed clearly at the beginning of your first appointment so you know exactly what to expect.
Can I stop counselling if it does not feel right?
Yes. You are free to decide whether you want to continue after any session. There is no obligation to keep attending if the fit does not feel right.
Looking for calm, practical support?
Online counselling offers a private space to talk through what is happening, make sense of your experience, and find a way forward that feels more manageable.
Need urgent help?
This is not a crisis service. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 000. You can also contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636.