Counsellors and counselling - what is it and how it can help

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To talk to someone now, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.</strong></p> </div> </div> <div class="cont_layout-standout"> <h2 id="key-facts">Key facts</h2> <ul> <li>Counsellors are a type of mental health professional who can help you work through issues in your life.</li> <li>Counselling can help with many issues, such as relationship problems and mental health challenges.</li> <li>Counselling sessions can be done individually, with specific people or in a group.</li> </ul> </div> <nav class="cont_nav-index-table__double-col"> <h2>On this page</h2> <ul> <li><a href="#what-is">What is a counsellor?</a></li> <li><a href="#do">What do counsellors do?</a></li> <li><a href="#problems">What problems can counselling help with?</a></li> <li><a href="#treatment">What sort of treatment does a counsellor provide?</a></li> <li><a href="#confidential">Is counselling confidential?</a></li> <li><a href="#cost">How much does counselling cost?</a></li> <li><a href="#online">Can counselling be done online?</a></li> <li><a href="#need">Do I need a counsellor?</a></li> <li><a href="#type">What type of counsellor is right for me?</a></li> <li><a href="#find">How can I find a counsellor?</a></li> <li><a href="#fit">Is my counsellor a good fit for me?</a></li> <li><a href="#other-professionals">Which other healthcare professionals provide counselling?</a></li> <li><a href="#resources">Resources and support</a></li> <li><a href="#searchGeneralResults">Related information on Australian websites</a></li> </ul> </nav> <h2 id="what-is">What is a counsellor?</h2> <p>Counsellors are a type of <a href="/mental-health-professionals">mental health professional</a>. You can talk to a counsellor to help you overcome difficulties in your life.</p> <h2 id="do">What do counsellors do?</h2> <p>Counselling can help you to cope with your issues and move through life. Counselling is when you talk with a qualified professional to help you make sense of and deal with the things you are going through. Counsellors ask questions and listen to you in a way that is:</p> <ul> <li>non-judgmental</li> <li>safe</li> <li>confidential</li> </ul> <p>People of any age can see a counsellor — there are counsellors who specialise in helping people throughout the life span.</p> <p>Depending on your needs, counselling can be for a short time or long term. It can also be done:</p> <ul> <li>individually</li> <li>with specific people, such as family members or a partner</li> </ul> <h2 id="problems">What problems can counselling help with?</h2> <p>Counsellors help people who are facing problems such as:</p> <ul> <li><a href="/caring-for-others">carer</a> stress</li> <li><a href="/financial-stress">financial stress</a></li> <li><a href="/grief-loss">loss, grief and bereavement</a></li> <li>challenges with <a href="/mental-health-and-wellbeing">mental health and wellbeing</a></li> <li><a href="/coping-with-divorce-or-breakup">relationship problems</a></li> <li><a href="/stress">stress</a></li> <li>trauma and <a href="/domestic-violence-and-abusive-relationships">domestic violence</a></li> </ul> <p>Counsellors can also support people with <a href="/mental-illness">mental illnesses</a> like:</p> <ul> <li><a href="/depression">depression</a></li> <li><a href="/postnatal-depression">postnatal depression</a></li> <li><a href="/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd">post-traumatic stress disorder</a></li> <li><a href="/eating-disorders">eating disorders</a>, like <a href="/anorexia-nervosa">anorexia</a> or <a href="/bulimia-nervosa">bulimia</a></li> </ul> <p>Counselling can also:</p> <ul> <li>help with <a href="/overcoming-addiction">addictions</a> — <a href="/alcohol">alcohol</a>, <a href="/drug-abuse">drug</a> or <a href="/gambling-addiction">gambling addictions</a></li> <li>help you <a href="/quit-smoking-vaping">quit smoking</a></li> <li>help you <a href="/anger-management">manage anger</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="treatment">What sort of treatment does a counsellor provide?</h2> <p>Some counsellors offer a range of approaches, which means they can offer counselling that best suits you. Other counsellors offer only one approach.</p> <p>Examples of different types of therapies used in counselling are:</p> <ul> <li>acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)</li> <li><a href="/cognitive-behaviour-therapy-cbt">cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT)</a></li> <li><a href="/mindfulness">mindfulness</a></li> <li>couples counselling</li> <li>group therapies for grief, substance abuse or other issues</li> </ul> <p>Counsellors can work with you to:</p> <ul> <li><a href="/good-mental-health">improve your mental health</a></li> <li>help you understand yourself better</li> <li>help you develop strategies to work towards goals</li> <li>provide advice on the difficulties you are facing</li> </ul> <p>A counsellor can help you develop your problem-solving skills by:</p> <ul> <li>helping you to understand the issues you are facing</li> <li>exploring the options you have to manage these issues</li> </ul> <p>Counsellors can refer you on for further help if needed. Counsellors don’t diagnose <a href="/mental-health-conditions">mental health conditions</a>.</p> <h2 id="confidential">Is counselling confidential?</h2> <p>By law, a counsellor must keep what you tell them confidential.</p> <p>There are some exceptions, such as where you or another person is thought to be at risk of harm.</p> <p>Your counsellor should outline confidentiality in your first session.</p> <h2 id="cost">How much does counselling cost?</h2> <p>Fees vary depending on the counsellor and the number of sessions you need. <a href="/what-is-medicare">Medicare</a> does not cover counselling unless it done by specific health practitioners such as:</p> <ul> <li>a <a href="/psychiatrists-and-psychologists">psychologist</a> under a <a href="/mental-health-treatment-plan">mental health care plan</a></li> <li>a <a href="/the-role-of-a-gp">doctor</a></li> </ul> <p>Some private health funds may cover part of your fee for seeing a counsellor.</p> <p>Free or low-cost counselling may be available through:</p> <ul> <li>community centres</li> <li>charities</li> <li>religious organisations</li> </ul> <p>These are often available both face-to-face and online.</p> <h2 id="online">Can counselling be done online?</h2> <p>Some counselling can be done through online interactive counselling programs, often supported by mental health professionals. You can ask your doctor about accessing online counselling programs.</p> <h2 id="need">Do I need a counsellor?</h2> <p>Counsellors can help with many problems, such as if you are:</p> <ul> <li>struggling with stress</li> <li>feeling overwhelmed</li> <li>having distressing thoughts</li> <li>low in <a href="/self-esteem">self-confidence</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="type">What type of counsellor is right for me?</h2> <p>The type of counsellor you see will depend on:</p> <ul> <li>your reason for getting counselling</li> <li>what therapy is best suited to your situation</li> </ul> <h2 id="find">How can I find a counsellor?</h2> <p>You don’t need a referral to see a counsellor. But, you can still <a href="/talking-to-your-doctor-gp-about-mental-health">talk to your doctor</a> about your concerns and ask for counselling recommendations.</p> <p>In Australia, most counsellors have qualifications and training. It’s a good idea to check that any counsellor you want to see is registered with a professional body like:</p> <ul> <li>the <a href="https://www.arcapregister.com.au/" target="_blank" aria-label="Link opens in a new tab.">Australian Register of Counsellors and Psychotherapists</a></li> <li>the <a href="https://www.pacfa.org.au/" target="_blank" aria-label="Link opens in a new tab.">Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia</a></li> <li>the <a href="https://theaca.net.au/" target="_blank" aria-label="Link opens in a new tab.">Australian Counselling Association</a></li> </ul> <p>You can find a counsellor in your local area on these websites. You can search for counsellors by languages spoken and type of counselling provided.</p> <a href="/australian-health-services" class="cont_layout-media-object__icon-standout"> <i class="cont_layout-media-object__icon-standout-left dor-icon_hospital"></i> <p class="cont_layout-media-object__icon-standout-right"><strong>FIND A HEALTH SERVICE</strong> — The <strong class="cont_underline">Service Finder</strong> can help you find doctors, pharmacies, hospitals and other health services.</p> </a> <h2 id="fit">Is my counsellor a good fit for me?</h2> <p>After a few sessions you should know whether you feel comfortable with your counsellor. You should:</p> <ul> <li>not feel judged or criticised</li> <li>start to see some improvement and feel better</li> </ul> <p>If you don’t feel that you are making progress or you feel that the counsellor isn’t right for you, you can talk openly with your counsellor and/or change counsellors.</p> <h2 id="other-professionals">Which other healthcare professionals provide counselling?</h2> <p>Other healthcare professionals can provide counselling, including:</p> <ul> <li>some doctors</li> <li><a href="/occupational-therapy">occupational therapists</a></li> <li><a href="/mental-health-nurses">mental health nurses</a></li> <li>mental health <a href="/social-workers">social workers</a></li> <li><a href="/psychiatrists-and-psychologists">psychologists and psychiatrists</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="resources">Resources and support</h2> <p><strong>If you, or someone you know, is in immediate danger of hurting themselves or others, call triple zero (000). For help and support, call Lifeline on <a href="tel:131114">13 11 14</a>.</strong></p> <p>Are you having a tough time and you need to talk to someone? The helplines and services below are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.</p> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.lifeline.org.au" target="_blank" aria-label="Link opens in a new tab.">Lifeline</a> — for anyone having a personal crisis, call <a href="tel:131114">13 11 14</a> or chat online.</li> <li><a href="https://www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au/" target="_blank" aria-label="Link opens in a new tab.">Suicide Call Back Service</a> — for anyone thinking about suicide, call <a href="tel:1300659467">1300 659 467</a>.</li> <li><a href="https://www.beyondblue.org.au" target="_blank" aria-label="Link opens in a new tab.">Beyond Blue</a> — for anyone feeling depressed or anxious, call <a href="tel:1300224636">1300 22 4636</a> or chat online.</li> <li><a href="https://www.sane.org/" target="_blank" aria-label="Link opens in a new tab.">SANE Australia</a> — for free counselling services for people with mental illness, call <a href="tel:1800187263">1800 187 263</a>.</li> <li><a href="https://mensline.org.au" target="_blank" aria-label="Link opens in a new tab.">MensLine Australia</a> — a free telephone and online counselling service, call <a href="tel:1300789978">1300 78 99 78</a>.</li> <li><a href="https://kidshelpline.com.au/" target="_blank" aria-label="Link opens in a new tab.">KidsHelpline</a> — free confidential online and phone counselling services for young people aged 5 to 25 years, call <a href="tel:1800551800">1800 55 1800</a> or chat online.</li> <li><a href="https://www.headtohealth.gov.au/" target="_blank" aria-label="Link opens in a new tab.">Head to Health</a> — for advice and to get connected to local mental health services, call <a href="tel:1800595212">1800 595 212</a>. Check the <a href="https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/australian-health-services/healthcare-service/virtual/head-to-health-phone-service/mental-health-information-and-referral/bbad2627-ad81-49ae-9917-f5f0faf1be2e">operating times</a>.</li> </ul> <p>You can also call the <a href="/how-healthdirect-can-help-you">healthdirect helpline</a> on <a href="tel:1800022222">1800 022 222</a> (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available to speak with 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. </p></div> <footer class="main_content-article-text-footer"> <div> <h4>Source<span>s</span>:</h4> <span> <a href="https://www.familyrelationships.gov.au" target="_blank" title="Family Relationships Online">Family Relationships Online</a> <em>(Counselling)<span></span></em>, <a href="https://pacfa.org.au" target="_blank" title="Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia">Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia</a> <em>(Counselling and psychotherapy definitions)<span></span></em>, <a href="https://au.reachout.com" target="_blank" title="ReachOut">ReachOut</a> <em>(What do counsellors do?)<span></span></em>, <a href="https://au.reachout.com/" target="_blank" title="ReachOut">ReachOut</a> <em>(Confidentiality and healthcare)<span></span></em>, <a href="https://www.theaca.net.au" target="_blank" title="Australian Counselling Association">Australian Counselling Association</a> <em>(Scope of Practice)<span></span></em>, <a href="https://pacfa.org.au/" target="_blank" title="Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia">Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia</a> <em>(Private health funds)<span></span></em>, <a href="https://www.mbsonline.gov.au/" target="_blank" title="MBS online">MBS online</a> <em>(Medicare Benefits Schedule - Item 80110)<span></span></em> </span> </div> </footer> <p>Learn more here about the <a href="https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/about-our-content">development and quality assurance of healthdirect content</a>.</p> <p>Last reviewed: March 2024</p> <div class="main_content-back-to-top"><a href="#backToTop"><i class="dor-icon_caret-up"></i><br><span class="tablet-up__inline">Back To </span>Top</a></a></div> </main>  <section class="main_content-links print-hidden"> <section class="related-concept-section"> <h2>Search our site for</h2> <ul> <li> <a class="dor-button__pill-btn" href="/search-results/Mental health" title="Search results for:Mental health">Mental health</a> </li> <li> <a class="dor-button__pill-btn" href="/search-results/Depression" title="Search results for:Depression">Depression</a> </li> <li> <a class="dor-button__pill-btn" href="/search-results/Bipolar Disorder" title="Search results for:Bipolar Disorder">Bipolar Disorder</a> </li> <li> <a class="dor-button__pill-btn" href="/search-results/Psychologists" title="Search results for:Psychologists">Psychologists</a> </li> <li> <a class="dor-button__pill-btn" href="/search-results/Bereavement" title="Search results for:Bereavement">Bereavement</a> </li> <li> <a class="dor-button__pill-btn" href="/search-results/Drug and alcohol counselling" title="Search results for:Drug and alcohol counselling">Drug and alcohol counselling</a> </li> <li> <a class="dor-button__pill-btn" href="/search-results/Early Intervention" title="Search results for:Early Intervention">Early Intervention</a> </li> <li> <a class="dor-button__pill-btn" href="/search-results/Financial Crisis" title="Search results for:Financial Crisis">Financial Crisis</a> </li> <li> <a class="dor-button__pill-btn" href="/search-results/Online Therapy" title="Search results for:Online Therapy">Online Therapy</a> </li> </ul> </section> </section>  <section class="main_content-search"> <header> <h2>Need more information?</h2> <p>These trusted information partners have more on this topic.</p> </header> <div class="main_content-general-text"> <div> <div class="main_content-search-results-partners"> <nav class="dor-tabs__2 veyron-search-tabs" role="tablist"> <label class="dor-tabs_item" role="tab" aria-controls="searchGeneralResults" aria-selected="true"> <input type="radio" checked name="tab"> <div class="dor-tabs_item-btn veyron-search-tab-btn">General search results</div> </label> <label class="dor-tabs_item" role="tab" aria-controls="searchProfessionalResults" aria-selected="false"> <input type="radio" name="tab"> <div class="dor-tabs_item-btn veyron-search-tab-btn">Results for medical professionals</div> </label> </nav> <section id="searchGeneralResults" data-total-records="447"> <p>Top results</p> <a href="https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/talk-to-a-counsellor" data-partner-url="partners/beyondblue" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|524ae81c-3ebe-4b93-80e1-55f896c894e1"> <h3>Talk to a counsellor - Beyond Blue - Beyond Blue</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Our free mental health line and online brief counselling service is open 24/7 for everyone in Australia. Reach out to us to find the support you need.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> <i id="read-more">Read more on Beyond Blue website</i></p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Beyond Blue" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/beyondblue_logo-304f0f.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.sane.org/counselling-support" data-partner-url="partners/sane-australia" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|8109334d-8b63-46d8-a894-5e0c23532109"> <h3>Counselling support</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Get confidential support if you are affected by complex mental health issues. Contact our trauma-informed counsellors Monday to Friday 10am - 8pm (AEST).</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> <i id="read-more">Read more on SANE Australia website</i></p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="SANE Australia" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/sane-australia-logo-b817f1.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/find-a-mental-health-professional" data-partner-url="partners/beyondblue" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|9a830081-1a26-4bc3-96a9-ac4bac2de1bb"> <h3>Find a Mental Health Professional - Beyond Blue - Beyond Blue</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>What’s the difference between a psychologist and counsellor? Learn what different professionals do and find mental health services near you.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> <i id="read-more">Read more on Beyond Blue website</i></p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Beyond Blue" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/beyondblue_logo-304f0f.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/national-mental-health-helplines-and-support-groups" data-partner-url="partners/beyondblue" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|0c7b9d48-9d6e-4860-bca6-c45fd1d3ee15"> <h3>National mental health helplines and support groups - Beyond Blue - Beyond Blue</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Talking about what’s going on makes a difference. Anyone in Australia can use these free mental health helplines and support groups for mental health.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> <i id="read-more">Read more on Beyond Blue website</i></p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Beyond Blue" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/beyondblue_logo-304f0f.png"> </a> <a href="https://bluepages.anu.edu.au/index.php?id=psychologists-and-other-therapists" data-partner-url="partners/e-hub-Mental-Health-Australian-National-University-ANU" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|7ddfe9f8-3d9e-409c-8586-c585cdeab367"> <h3>Psychologists & other therapists - BluePages</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Non-medical professionals can provide help for depression, including psychologists, mental health social workers, counsellors and mental health nurses.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> <i id="read-more">Read more on e-hub Web Services - Australian National University (ANU) website</i></p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="e-hub Web Services - Australian National University (ANU)" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/ANU_logo.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support" data-partner-url="partners/beyondblue" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|43230d38-c2ca-4779-8ade-0d1a01d5e1a3"> <h3>Get support - Beyond Blue - Beyond Blue</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>We all have bad days. It can make a real difference having someone to talk to. Our free mental health services help connect you to that person.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> <i id="read-more">Read more on Beyond Blue website</i></p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Beyond Blue" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/beyondblue_logo-304f0f.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.openarms.gov.au/get-support/counselling" data-partner-url="partners/open-arms-veterans-and-families-counselling" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|eacb71f2-696c-4d43-9488-6b676a58d79e"> <h3>Counselling | Open Arms</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Open Arms can provide individual, couple and family counselling to help improve your resilience, as well as enhance your mental health and wellbeing. Call 1800 011 046 for free and confidential 24/7 support.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> <i id="read-more">Read more on Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling website</i></p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/openarms_logo-b10fb0.png"> </a> <a href="https://suicideline.org.au/mental-health/" data-partner-url="partners/suicideline" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|7c0d70c1-039c-4f7a-b188-5bfaf9ab486f"> <h3>Mental health Archive | SuicideLine Victoria</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>SuicideLine Victoria provides phone and online counselling for anyone struggling with their mental health including anxiety, depression, feeling low, stressed or having suicidal thoughts</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> <i id="read-more">Read more on SuicideLine website</i></p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="SuicideLine" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/SLV_logo.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.dva.gov.au/health-and-treatment/injury-or-health-treatments/mental-health-care" data-partner-url="partners/department-of-veterans-affairs" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|30d2b4c9-3645-44fd-aa98-a8590315977e"> <h3>Mental health care | Department of Veterans' Affairs</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>You can access mental health care for free and we can also counsel and support your family members</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> <i id="read-more">Read more on Department of Veterans' Affairs website</i></p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Department of Veterans' Affairs" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/Department-of-Veterans-Affairs_logo.png"> </a> <a href="https://mensline.org.au/advice-support-referral-resources-for-men/" data-partner-url="partners/mensline-australia" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|b5e9ce1e-2c5a-4045-9d0d-967b24f4b0e5"> <h3>Mental health resources for men | MensLine Australia</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Advice, support and referral resources for men | Free phone and online counselling Australia wide | MensLine Australia</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> <i id="read-more">Read more on MensLine Australia website</i></p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="MensLine Australia" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/MensLine_logo.png"> </a> <section class="main_content-search-show-more "> <button class="main_content-search-show-more-btn" title="Show more search results" rel="nofollow">Show more</button> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-show-more-loading"></i> </section> </section> <section id="searchProfessionalResults" class="hidden" data-total-records="31"> <p>Top results</p> <a href="https://qlife.org.au/uploads/19-Young-People.pdf" data-partner-url="partners/qlife" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|0ffd0de4-1842-4295-afa8-ceefffc19b16"> <h3>Young people - QLife guide tip sheet</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Social conditions for the acceptance of LGBTI (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex) people have improved dramatically in Australia in recent years.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"><i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> Read more on QLife website</p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="QLife" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/QLife_logo.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au/health-professionals" data-partner-url="partners/gidget-foundation-australia" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|14ff4c11-0a9a-4fff-8f6e-a33490ccbe15"> <h3>Health Professionals</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Gidget Foundation Australia provides free resources of health professionals looking for patient support information. Our specialist perinatal mental health clinicians provide a wide range of individual and parent-infant therapies to expectant and new parents as well as partners. Our programs DO NOT provide crisis support. If your patient needs immediate help, please call triple zero (000), your local emergency department or Lifeline on 13 11 14.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"><i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> Read more on Gidget Foundation Australia website</p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Gidget Foundation Australia" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/gidget_logo-c6f6ce.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.ausmed.com/learn/articles/predicting-perinatal-depression" data-partner-url="partners/ausmed-education" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|ba407901-4f85-4746-8f64-b067a7547d54"> <h3>Predicting Perinatal Mental Illness | Ausmed</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Perinatal mental illness is defined by The Royal College of Psychiatrists as mental health problems that complicate pregnancy as well as the postnatal period. Overall, in Australia, perinatal mental illness affects up to 1 in 5 expecting or new mothers and 1 in 10 expecting or new fathers</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"><i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> Read more on Ausmed Education website</p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Ausmed Education" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/ausmed-new-logo-872e67.png"> </a> <a href="https://qlife.org.au/uploads/7-Intersex.pdf" data-partner-url="partners/qlife" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|0c9c4b0c-c499-4ed5-860a-aabd98ccc458"> <h3>Intersex - a QLife guide for health professionals</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>People are born with many kinds of bodies, and natural differences in sex characteristics are far more common than might be widely recognised. Intersex is an umbrella term for a wide range of natural variations, including genetic, hormonal or physical sex characteristics.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"><i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> Read more on QLife website</p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="QLife" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/QLife_logo.png"> </a> <a href="https://qlife.org.au/uploads/12-Relationships.pdf" data-partner-url="partners/qlife" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|53fc34df-c62a-4912-ab13-560c1a8eed2f"> <h3>Relationships - a QLife guide for health professionals</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>The relationships of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex (LGBTI) people are diverse and varied. LGBTI people have relationships as spouses, partners, friends, carers, children, parents, neighbours and co-workers and may bring issues in any of these relationship areas to counselling.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"><i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> Read more on QLife website</p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="QLife" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/QLife_logo.png"> </a> <a href="https://mensline.org.au/health-professionals/the-role-of-specialist-support-programs-and-family-violence/" data-partner-url="partners/mensline-australia" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|1da1416f-76d2-4334-b49e-7510b99c3148"> <h3>Support programs and family violence | MensLine Australia</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Understanding the role of specialist family and domestic violence support services | Tips from MensLine Australia</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"><i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> Read more on MensLine Australia website</p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="MensLine Australia" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/MensLine_logo.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.ausmed.com/learn/articles/cortisol-production-use-body" data-partner-url="partners/ausmed-education" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|f0a9e1ce-6797-4109-988d-f7530c8ac73d"> <h3>Cortisol Production and Use by the Body | Ausmed</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Cortisol is a hormone produced by the two adrenal glands, which are located on top of each kidney. The pituitary gland in the brain regulates cortisol production. Cortisol plays an important role in the stress response. Maintaining an adequate balance of cortisol is essential for health.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"><i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> Read more on Ausmed Education website</p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Ausmed Education" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/ausmed-new-logo-872e67.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.racgp.org.au/clinical-resources/clinical-guidelines/key-racgp-guidelines/view-all-racgp-guidelines/abuse-and-violence/domestic-or-intimate-partner-abuse-violence/working-with-men-who-use-intimate-partner-abuse" data-partner-url="partners/racgp-the-royal-australian-college-of-general-practitioners" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|feeb89ea-c9a6-4d8b-bcfa-ec41a6647b37"> <h3>RACGP - Working with men who use intimate partner abuse and violence</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Reproduced with permission from The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. This chapter discusses working with men who use intimate partner abuse, including identification, safety and management</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"><i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> Read more on RACGP - The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners website</p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="RACGP - The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/racgp_master_rgb-f5ccb3.png"> </a> <a href="https://qlife.org.au/uploads/17-Suicide-Prevention.pdf" data-partner-url="partners/qlife" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|9a39c473-20e2-4f87-9845-8497d9b70e8d"> <h3>Suicide prevention - a QLife guide for health professionals</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Despite significant social change and increased inclusion, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) people have a far greater risk of suicide than the national population average.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"><i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> Read more on QLife website</p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="QLife" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/QLife_logo.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.sahealth.sa.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/public+content/sa+health+internet/clinical+resources/clinical+programs+and+practice+guidelines/substance+misuse+and+dependence/substance+withdrawal+management/amphetamine+withdrawal+management" data-partner-url="partners/sa-health" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|7f82520f-7601-413a-9da7-f5c6ef0c1e22"> <h3>Amphetamine withdrawal management | SA Health</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Amphetamine withdrawal management - appropriate processes for the management of amphetamine withdrawal.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"><i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> Read more on SA Health website</p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="SA Health" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/SA-Health_logo.png"> </a> <section class="main_content-search-show-more "> <button class="main_content-search-show-more-btn" title="Show more search results" rel="nofollow">Show more</button> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-show-more-loading"></i> </section> </section> </div> </div> </div> <div class="partner-popup-content hidden"> <header class="dor-modal_body-header"><h2>Disclaimer</h2></header> <div class="dor-modal_body-main veyron-global-popup-body-main"> <div class="dor-modal_body-main-content"> <p>Healthdirect Australia is not responsible for the content and advertising on the external website you are now entering.</p> </div> </div> <footer class="dor-modal_body-footer"> <a target="_blank" class="main-action main-action__link" role="button"><button class="dor-modal_body-footer-action">OK</button></a> </footer> </div> <script type="text/javascript"> HDW.partnerResults = JSON.parse('{\"localContentConfig\":{\"PBB\":{\"logo\":\"PBB_logo.png\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au\/\",\"name\":\"Pregnancy, Birth & Baby\"},\"MHC\":{\"logo\":\"MHC_logo.png\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.mindhealthconnect.org.au\/\",\"name\":\"mindhealthconnect\"},\"HIN\":{\"logo\":\"healthdirect_logo.png\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.healthdirect.gov.au\/\",\"name\":\"healthdirect\"},\"HCW\":{\"logo\":\"healthdirect_logo.png\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/about.healthdirect.gov.au\/\",\"name\":\"healthdirect\"}}}') initArticleSearchResults(JSON.parse('{\"general\":\"\/api\/search\/content\/general?wt=json&f.partner.facet.limit=-1&f.partner.facet.sort=count&rows=10&start=0&channel=HIN&q=(Counsellor%20OR%20Counselling)%20AND%20%22mental%20health%22&fq=document_channel%3A(%22HIN%22%20OR%20%22PBB%22%20OR%20%22MHC%22%20OR%20%22HCW%22)&fq=!canonical_channel%3A%22HIN%22&fq=(canonical_channel%3A%5B*%20TO%20*%5D%20OR%20content_type%3A%22hdaptn%3ApartnerContent%22)&fq=audience_en%3A(%22Consumers%22%20OR%20%22Carers%22)\",\"professional\":\"\/api\/search\/content\/keyword?wt=json&f.partner.facet.limit=-1&f.partner.facet.sort=count&rows=10&start=0&channel=HIN&q=(Counsellor%20OR%20Counselling)%20AND%20%22mental%20health%22&fq=!partner%3A%22healthdirect%22&fq=audience_en%3A%22Health%20Professionals%22\"}')); 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