Counselling can provide support to people who are going through difficult times or complex mental health conditions. However, it can also be helpful for those who would like to reach a more fulfilling life, enhance self-development or gain self-knowledge.
In some cases, counselling can be as deep as exploring the early years and how those first experiences and relationships shaped the way they live today. In other cases, people need to focus on present challenges and here and now situations.
Either way, counselling can be tailored to your particular needs and situation, as “one does not fit all”.
The first step, and sometimes the hardest, is to reach out and connect. Now that you have taken that step, I will make contact with you to have a chat about your concerns to make sure that I can support you and that you feel comfortable talking with me.
2. Initial Consultation
From that initial conversation, we will arrange the initial face to face or online consultation, which is the beginning of your therapeutic journey. In this first session, we will go deeper into what is happening and we will set goals for your recovery.
3. Moving Forward
Finally, we will agree on what is best for you moving forward in terms of frequency and modality like face to face, online or hybrid sessions.
I believe in creating a compassionate and non-judgemental environment where clients feel safe and comfortable to share and work through their challenges. Our work starts by building on people’s strengths and by highlighting the qualities and positive aspects of each individual as the path to overcome challenges.
I promote and encourage a collaborative way of working, where clients are also taking part and making decisions on their therapeutic journey. Building capacity and practical strategies are also part of our sessions, while deeply addressing the roots and sources of these challenges.
I believe in working towards client’s emotional independence and confidence, which allow clients to gradually decrease the frequency of the sessions. Once we have reached this point and if necessary, we can have sessions every few months to monitor and identify areas of opportunity before they become an issue.
It is amazing how far we can reach with a little help
Why Choose Brenda Aguilar Psychology
Immediate Availability
Unlike other psychologists who are booked for months due to Covid-19, We just recently opened and have spots available on short notice.
Flexibility
Day and after-hours appointments are available. Also, depending on eligibility, We are able to do outreach sessions for self-managed NDIS funded clients
Medicare Rebates
Rebates can be claimed through Medicare. We only need a mental health plan (MHP) and referral letter issued by your GP.
Tailored To You
We believe that everyone is different, and one theory does not fit all. Therefore, after a comprehensive understanding of your challenges, we will set goals that will have a holistic approach.
Telehealth Services during COVID-19
We are currently offering telehealth services for all clients which can be conducted via telephone or online meeting.
I have been a psychologist for over 16 years. I started my career with a five-year Bachelor in Psychology that included two years of Clinical Psychology. After working for a few years, I became curious and conscious that development plays an important role in children and adults’ current difficulties. So, I undertook a Masters in Educational and Developmental Psychology at the University of Melbourne. Most recently, in 2020, I became a board-approved supervisor, which allows me to supervise and support other provisional and registered psychologists.
These qualifications have allowed me to work in academic, private, non-for profit, and government organisations in Mexico, the United States of America and Australia. My work has mostly included counselling support, administering assessments and upskill and training parents and school staff. This exposure has given me the opportunity to become experienced in working with adults and children through a number of challenges, conditions and disorders. For example, childhood trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties and behavioural disorders.
With empathy and professionalism, We will create a safe space that allows you to comfortably talk, think, reflect and gain insight into the current situation. Additionally, We will promote a collaborative relationship where you can feel empowered and confident to make changes and decisions to reach your goals and wellbeing.
You do not need a referral to book an appointment. However, you will need a Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) if you would like to claim a rebate through Medicare
Depends on your needs and the work we are doing together. It works well for some clients to have a single consultation, while other clients may like to attend from six to ten sessions, or even longer in some cases. We can review this question once we have discussed your needs and goals. However, while I am happy to give recommendations, you are ultimately in control.
First sessions are the opportunity we have to talk about what brought you here, gather background information and discuss a potential therapeutic process plan. Other administrative aspects of seeing a psychologist will also take place here, along with agreements on the frequency of the sessions.
Every case is different, and we will arrange a starting point when we have discussed your particular needs but will also keep assessing the frequency as we progress. Some clients are happy to engage weekly, fortnightly, and in some cases monthly. We can also arrange sessions to monitor how you are travelling after finishing your therapeutic process, which may take even longer between sessions.
This service is mostly provided to clients who qualify for NDIS funding and are also engaged with other services. Each request is carefully reviewed on a case-by-case basis.