Counselling
Our mental health and Counselling services offer an integrated whole of person approach to better mental health and wellbeing.
We recognise that health is more than physical, and that emotional and mental wellbeing are key to quality of life. Our generalist Counselling service addresses emotional, social and mental wellbeing, giving you the tools and guidance to navigate life’s stressors.
Counselling is more than a chat – it helps you to break down an issue or problem, explore your emotional needs, and develop strategies and approaches to address it.
Who we can help As a generalist Counselling service, we see people who are dealing with (not limited to):
- Life stage issues
- Anxiety and/or depression
- Effects of trauma
- Self-esteem and confidence issues
- Lifestyle changes related to illness
- Grief and loss
- Stress management issues
- Relationship or personal issues
- Adjustment to life events (e.g. relocation, unemployment).
LGBTIQA+ counsellor We also have a dedicated LGBTIQA+ counsellor (with lived and living experience), offering a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment for members of the rainbow community.
Fees Counselling is free for low and medium income earners. Fees are applicable to higher income earners. Speak to us to find out more.
Our services
Our Counselling services provide:
- A focus on collaborative goals during counselling
- Information and links to other appropriate community agencies
- Access to therapeutic groups including:
- Managing Chronic Pain: multi-disciplinary group with Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy)
- Women Standing Strong: a therapeutic group for women who want to address the trauma after leaving abusive intimate partner relationships
- Creative Connections: an art therapy program to enhance connection with our emotions and healthy interactions with others
- Access to individual psycho-education sessions including:
- Sleep
- Managing our moods
- Interaction between physical and emotional wellbeing
Secondary consultation to service providers
Community education sessions.
Who we support and eligibility
How to Access Our Services
We adapt to your needs. You can choose to meet with us:
- In-person at our offices
- Via telehealth (convenient phone or video calls)
Priority Access
As a community health-funded service, we welcome everyone but give priority booking to:
- Healthcare Card holders
- People affected by family violence
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
- Refugees and asylum seekers
- People on a low income
Important Fee & Visa Information
Working Holiday Visas: You are welcome to use our services during standard business hours. Please note that a per-appointment fee applies, which cannot be claimed or rebated through your insurance.
Family Violence Counselling
Your Community Health is a proud member of the Northern Integrated Family Violence Service (NIFVS) Counselling Service Alliance (CSA). We work closely alongside The Orange Door and other local community agencies to ensure you get the integrated care and safety you need.
If you are a victim-survivor recovering from family or domestic violence, we offer dedicated, safe, and confidential Family Violence Counselling.
If you are currently experiencing family violence, please contact the Orange Door on 1800 319 355 or visit their website.
Booking an appointment
You do not need a Mental Health Care Plan to book a counselling appointment with us. If you do not have a referral, you can easily self-refer by completing our online Referral Form. Alternatively, if you would prefer to speak directly with someone from our friendly intake team to discuss your options, please call us on 03 8470 1111 (Monday to Thursday, 9:00am – 4:30pm).
If you have already received a referral from a GP or another health professional, please forward it to us via email at: counselling@yourch.org.au.
If this is an emergency
Counselling at Your Community Health is not a crisis service. If this is an emergency (Fire, Police, Ambulance), please call 000.
For other supports please contact:
- Lifeline: 13 11 14 (24/7 free counselling service)
- QLife: 1800 184 527 (3pm – midnight, LGBTIQA+ support and referral)
- Rainbow Door: 1800 729 367 (10am – 5pm, daily)
- Suicide Helpline: 1300 651 251 (24/7 phone assistance)
- Directline: 1800 888 236 (24/7 substance and gaming information and counselling service)
- Suicide Call Back: 1300 659 467 (24/7 free counselling service)
- 1800 Respect: 1800 737 732 (24/7 info, counselling and support for sexual assault and family violence)
- Safe Steps: 1800 015 188 (24/7 info, counselling and support for family violence)
- Child Protection: 13 12 78
- Nurse on Call: 1300 60 60 (24/7 nursing advice and support)
Call now to learn more!
“The counselling sessions have really helped me understand and manage my anxiety better.”
“Thanks to the counselling team, I’ve gained new coping skills that make a big difference in my daily life.”
“I feel supported and listened to during every counselling appointment.”
Related Services
Our Community Wellbeing team works with community members like you to support your health and wellbeing needs with a focus on healthy eating, building social connections, and gender equity.
Discover our comprehensive physical health services, designed to support your journey towards good health. We offer a range of services and support programs tailored for different needs, ensuring a compassionate and inclusive approach. Reach out today to find the guidance and care you deserve.
Our expert dental team are here to help keep your teeth healthy, help prevent oral health problems and provide high quality treatment when needed. Our clinic is open to everyone. You may be eligible for prioritised or subsidised services.