Our Locations
We have practices across Sydney, the coast and the Illawarra, and online. You can also access counselling through Zoom, Teams or Meet.
Pointer
online counselling
Online
sydney city
City
central coast NSW
Central Coast
Eastern Suburbs NSW
Eastern Suburbs
hills district
Hills District
inner west
Inner West
north shore sydney
North Shore
northern beaches sydney nsw
Northern Beaches
st george nsw
South West | St George
sutherland shire nsw
Sutherland Shire
western suburbs of sydney
Western Sydney
Wollongong NSW
Wollongong
Showing closest practices to
No location selected
Not found in your area
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
We'll be in touch the same business day with some great options.


    Make a booking form loader

    Thanks!

    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.

    Change your thoughts. Change your life.

    When worry won’t switch off or low moods linger.

    When the same patterns play on repeat.

    Read more

    If you’re feeling stuck in unhelpful loops, CBT can help.

    Our experienced counsellors use practical, evidence-based tools to help you think clearer, feel steadier, and get moving again.

    You can see one of our clinicians in person at any of these practices, or online.

    Signs to notice

    Is this you?

    • Anxious and overthinking
    • Low mood and lack of motivation
    • Panic, stress & sleep disruption
    • Unhelpful habits

    Our clinicians

    Call us and we will match you with the right person.

    Megan

    Megan

    Counsellor & Relationship Therapist

    St Leonards+1Online

    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 ✓

    Phone bookings weekdays 9am-6pm02 8205 0566
    Book with Megan
    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 ✓

    Phone bookings weekdays 9am-6pm02 8205 0566
    Book with Neera
    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 ✓

    Phone bookings weekdays 9am-6pm02 8205 0566
    Book with Mike
    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 ✓

    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 ✓

    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 ✓

    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 ✓

    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 ✓

    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 ✓

    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 ✓

    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 ✓

    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 ✓

    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 ✓

    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 ✓

    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 ✓

    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 ✓

    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 ✓

    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 ✓

    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 ✓

    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 ✓

    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 ✓

    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 ✓

    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 ✓

    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 ✓

    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 ✓

    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 ✓

    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 ✓

    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 ✓

    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 ✓

    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 ✓

    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 ✓

    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 ✓

    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 ✓

    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 ✓

    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 ✓

    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 ✓

    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

    How we help

    How we help

    How counselling can help.

    Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

    Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) gives you practical tools to understand and change the patterns between your thoughts, feelings, and actions.

    Mindfulness

    You might practise gradually facing situations you’ve been avoiding, scheduling enjoyable activities to lift your mood, or learning relaxation and mindfulness skills.

    The guide

    Feeling trapped by your thoughts? CBT is a proven way to get unstuck.

    Anxious and overthinking

    Racing thoughts, constant “what ifs”, and that tight feeling in your chest; We’ll teach you simple CBT skills to calm your body and steady your mind.

    Low mood and lack of motivation

    When everything feels heavy, getting started is the hardest part. Together, we’ll break goals into doable steps so you can feel progress again.

    Panic, stress & sleep disruption

    From panic spikes to 3 am spirals, CBT gives you practical strategies to talk yourself down and sleep more soundly.

    Unhelpful habits

    Whether it’s avoidance, chronic people-pleasing or perfectionism, we’ll help you spot the patterns and replace them with healthier ones.

    Our trained psychologists have been helping people shift their lives with CBT for over 25 years.  You’ll learn skills in sessions that you can immediately use in your daily life, real tools for real change. Get started today. 

    Let us help you find the right CBT counsellor.

    Starting therapy can feel daunting. We make it simple.

    Personal match

    Tell us what’s going on. We’ll match you with a counsellor who aligns with your goals, preferences, and availability.

    Quick appointments, easy

    Most people are seen within a week. Clear next steps, no confusion.

    Sydney & online

    Choose from practices across Sydney, the coast and the Illawarra, or meet online, support that fits your life.
    It only takes one call. We’ll guide you from first contact to your first session.

    Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

    How CBT Can Help You

    Do you ever feel like your mind just won’t switch off? Maybe you catch yourself replaying the same worries, avoiding situations you wish you could handle, or reacting in ways you later regret.  

    It can be exhausting and can leave you feeling stuck in cycles you don’t know how to break. 

    But the good news is, you don’t have to stay stuck. 

    Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) gives you practical tools to understand and change the patterns between your thoughts, feelings, and actions.  

    Even small shifts in the way you think can transform how you feel and the choices you make and open the door to a calmer, more balanced, and more fulfilling life.

    You might find CBT especially helpful if you often:

    • Struggle with anxiety or low mood.
    • Avoid situations because of fear or worry.
    • Have constant negative thoughts about yourself or the future.
    • Find it hard to break habits that aren’t serving you.
    • Feel stuck in the same emotional patterns, no matter what you try.

    In CBT, you work with your counsellor as a team to identify what keeps you stuck, explore new ways of looking at things, and try out healthier ways of responding.

    The idea is simple but powerful:  When you change the way you think about a situation, you often change how you feel and how you respond.

    What Issues Can CBT Help With?

    CBT is effective for many mental health conditions and everyday challenges, including:

    • Anxiety disorders, generalised anxiety, social anxiety, panic attacks, phobias
    • Depression, mild to moderate depression, low mood
    • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
    • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
    • Eating disorders, such as bulimia and binge eating disorder
    • Sleep problems, including insomnia
    • Stress management, work stress, relationship stress, life transitions
    • Chronic pain and some medical conditions where stress makes symptoms worse.

    CBT can also be helpful even if you’re not experiencing a specific diagnosis.  It’s often used to improve self-confidence, communication skills, or coping strategies.

    How CBT Works

    The way we think about something influences how we feel, which then affects what we do. For example:

    • You have the thought: “I’m going to embarrass myself in this meeting.”
    • This leads to feelings of anxiety and tension.
    • You decide to avoid speaking up, which might bring short-term relief but reinforces the fear for next time.

    In CBT, you learn to spot these patterns, question them, and experiment with new ways of responding.

    Recognising Unhelpful Thinking

    We all have mental shortcuts that aren’t always accurate. Some common examples include:

    • All-or-nothing thinking, seeing situations as completely good or bad.
    • Catastrophising, expecting the worst possible outcome.
    • Mind-reading, assuming you know what others are thinking.
    • Over-generalising, believing one bad experience means all future ones will be bad.

    Reframing Your Thoughts

    Once you start noticing these patterns, your therapist will help you replace them with more balanced and realistic ways of thinking. This might involve asking:

    • “What’s the evidence for and against this thought?”
    • “How would I view this if it happened to someone I care about?”
    • “Is there a more helpful way of looking at this situation?”

    Over time, these mental shifts can change how you feel and act.

    Changing Behaviour

    In CBT, you don’t just learn to think differently; you learn to do differently. 

    You might practise gradually facing situations you’ve been avoiding, scheduling enjoyable activities to lift your mood, or learning relaxation and mindfulness skills. 

    These practical steps can make a big difference, often faster than people expect.

    What to Expect in a CBT Session

    1. Goal setting, You and your counsellor agree on what you want to work on.
    2. Review, You check in on progress since the last session.
    3. Learning and practice, Your therapist introduces tools or exercises.
    4. Homework, You practise new skills between sessions.
    5. Feedback, You reflect together on what’s working and what needs adjusting.

    Sessions are active and collaborative. You won’t just talk. You’ll be given practical ways to work on your goals.

    How Long Does CBT Take?

    CBT is usually short-term. Many people start to see improvement after 6 to 12 sessions, while more complex situations might require 20 sessions or more.

    Appointments typically last 45 to 60 minutes and are held weekly or fortnightly. Some people choose to have occasional “booster” sessions once counselling ends to keep their progress on track.

    Benefits of CBT

    The appeal of CBT lies in its practical nature. It’s not just talking, it’s learning skills you can use for life. 

    The structure makes it easier to track progress, and the strategies are flexible enough to be used on your own once counselling finishes.

    Because it’s backed by extensive research, CBT is often a first choice for both counsellors and clients looking for effective, time-limited treatment.

    How to Get Started

    If you’d like to explore CBT with one of our experienced counsellors or psychologists:

    • Contact us to book a first appointment.
    • We’ll discuss your needs and match you with a counsellor who specialises in CBT for in-person or online sessions. 
    • Together, we’ll create a plan to help you move forward.

    Quality Matters in Therapy

    Psychologists Sydney

    Choosing the right therapist for cognitive behavioural therapy isn’t just about qualifications. It’s about connection, depth, and real experience.

    Our team includes senior psychologists and counsellors who bring empathy, insight, and practical strategies that create lasting change.

    We’ve handpicked professionals who are not only highly trained, but also genuinely care about helping people move forward in their relationships.

    Questions

    Frequently Asked Questions About CBT

    Common questions.

    How long will I need CBT?

    Short-term goals may only take 6 to 12 sessions, while more complex concerns might require longer. Your therapist will discuss a personalised plan so you know what to expect.

    Can CBT be done online?

    Yes. Online CBT, delivered via secure video, has been shown to be as effective as in-person sessions for many issues. It’s a good option if travel, location, or time constraints make in-person therapy difficult.

    Do I have to do homework?

    Most CBT therapists will ask you to practise skills between sessions. This could include keeping a thought record, using a new coping technique, or taking a small step toward a goal. Homework helps you apply what you learn so progress happens faster.

    What happens if I miss a session?

    Missing an occasional session won’t derail your progress, but regular attendance is important. If you can’t make an appointment, let your therapist know and arrange a make-up session if possible.

    Will I have to talk about my past?

    Your therapist might explore past events if they help explain current patterns, but CBT is primarily about what’s happening now and what you can do to change it.

    How is CBT different from other types of therapy?

    While some therapies focus mainly on exploring the past, CBT is goal-oriented and centred on the present. You’ll work on specific challenges, learn tools to manage them, and practise those skills in your daily life.

    Is CBT effective?

    Yes. CBT is one of the most researched forms of therapy, with decades of studies showing it works well for a variety of mental health conditions. Many people start to feel better within weeks, though the best results come from consistent effort and practice.

    How was CBT developed?

    CBT grew out of two earlier forms of therapy: cognitive therapy, which focused on how our thoughts influence emotions, and behavioural therapy, which targeted patterns of behaviour. Psychologists like Aaron Beck and Albert Ellis in the 1960s and 70s combined these approaches, creating a structured, evidence-based method that’s now used worldwide.

    Can Medicare Help Cover My CBT Sessions?

    Yes. In Australia, you can access Medicare rebates for Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy when you see a registered psychologist under a GP-issued Mental Health Care Plan. This plan allows you to claim a rebate for up to 10 individual sessions each calendar year, significantly reducing your out-of-pocket cost.

    At Associated Counsellors & Psychologists, our psychologists and clinical psychologists are registered with Medicare, so you can use your plan straight away. We can help you understand how the process works, assist with finding the right therapist for your needs, and guide you in getting the maximum rebate available.

    Where can I find a CBT therapist?

    Look for registered psychologists or counsellors who have specific training in CBT. In Australia, the Australian Psychological Society and the Australian Register of Counsellors and Psychotherapists both have directories to help you find qualified practitioners.

    At Associated Counsellors and Psychologists, our matching service will connect you with the right fit for your situation.

    Who benefits most from cognitive behavioural therapy?

    People who are ready to be active participants in their own progress tend to get the most from CBT. This means being open to learning, practising skills between sessions, and working toward clear goals. It’s suitable for adults, teens, and even children when adapted for their age.

    What issues does CBT work well with?

    CBT is effective for a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), eating disorders, phobias, sleep problems, chronic pain, and stress. It’s also useful for everyday challenges like building confidence, improving communication, and managing work-related stress.

    How does CBT work?

    CBT is based on the idea that thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are all connected. By identifying and challenging unhelpful thoughts and experimenting with new behaviours, you can change how you feel over time. Therapy sessions combine conversation, skill-building, and real-life practice to help you make lasting changes.

    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

    Getting Started With Therapy

    Choose a TherapistWe'll speak to you and help you find the best therapist for your issues (yes, we're local and real people!). We'll ask about what's going for you, you're location and availability. We'll then describe some counsellors for you to choose from.
    No Referral NeededYou can get started without a referral. If you do have Mental Health care plan from your GP, you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate. Give us a call and we'll run you through the options and how it all works.
    Costs and RebatesPrices vary depending on who you choose to see.Medicare Rebates and private health rebates may also apply. You can read about those in the FAQs at the bottom of this page.
    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
    ★★★★★

    I recently decided to speak to a psychologist regarding some personal matters and found the process of finding someone much easier using Associated Counsellors. They were prompt and informative with my request and was able to book my first session at a time and location that suited my schedule.

    George P. · September 2024 · Google review, Northbridge practice
    ★★★★★

    The booking process was very easy, I submitted an online enquiry in the morning and received a phone call later that day. The lady on the phone was helpful, she found a psychologist that was within my area and was able to book me in within 2 weeks.

    Naomi K. · January 2023 · Google review, Elizabeth Street practice
    ★★★★★

    Very lovely over the phone , it was my first time booking in and the lady made it very easy and welcoming!! i can’t wait to start my counseling here (prices are also quite good and affordable considering how expensive it can be at other places…)

    Liliana · November 2024 · Google review, Bondi Junction practice

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

    Speak to a Psychologist

    Let us answer your questions and help you choose from a range of Psychologists, Counsellors and Relationship Therapists, near you.

    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.
    Request a Booking