Counselling Start

Your first calm first step toward the right support.
Gain clarity, feel understood, and be matched with a counsellor who truly fits.


ABOUT THE SERVICE

Counselling Start is a single, 45-minute online session that helps you understand what you need and which type of counsellor will be the best fit. It’s designed for people who want clarity before committing to ongoing therapy.
During the session, we talk through what’s been going on, explore your goals and preferences, and identify the kind of counselling approach that feels right. Afterwards, I review your needs and send you tailored counsellor recommendations.
* A supportive, structured 45-minute online session
* Space to talk through what’s happening and what you need next
* Guidance on counsellor preferences (location, style, approach, cost, modality)
* Personalised counsellor suggestions sent after the session
* First counselling session will be free or low-cost (bulk-billed with a MHCP)
* Delivered by a qualified social worker with experience in mental health counselling, intake, and triage

HOW IT WORKS

  • Book your 45-minute online First-Step session

  • Send through your Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP), or I’ll explain exactly how to get one

  • We meet online through a secure video link

  • We talk through what’s going on, what you need, and what you prefer

  • I take time after the session to match you with suitable counsellors

  • You receive personalised recommendations

  • I organise your first appointment — bulk-billed or low-cost

  • You continue your counselling journey with someone who genuinely fits your needs

Text

Simple, calm, and tailored to you.

WHAT YOU'LL GAIN

  • Clarity about what’s been going on and why you’re feeling this way

  • A sense of which kind of counsellor and approach will work best for you

  • Personalised recommendations instead of overwhelming trial-and-error

  • Confidence and reassurance about your next step

  • A structured, safe space where you feel heard

  • Clear information about MHCPs and how to access one

T

No more scrolling through profiles or retelling your story — this session handles the hard part for you.

IS THIS RIGHT FOR ME?

Counselling Start is a good fit if you:

  • feel anxious, low, stressed, overwhelmed, or unsure what’s going on

  • want guidance before committing to a counsellor

  • don’t know where to start or who to reach out to

  • would like help understanding how counselling works and what to expect

  • feel lost in the different counselling options and approaches

  • want a calm first conversation with someone who listens

  • prefer a real human, not an algorithm

  • want your first counselling session to be bulk-billed or low-cost

  • appreciate clear, personalised direction

What makes Counselling Start different?

Counselling Start isn’t therapy — it’s the step before therapy.
A calm, supportive conversation that helps you understand what’s going on and points you toward the counsellor who will suit you best.
Instead of scrolling through profiles, guessing, or hoping for luck, you receive thoughtful recommendations from someone who has personally screened and assessed each counsellor in the network. Only those who genuinely match your needs, preferences, and goals are suggested.You leave the session with clarity, direction, and a personalised plan — not another overwhelming list to sort through.Independent, personalised guidanceRecommendations are based entirely on you:
your needs, your goals, and what will support you best.
Every counsellor I suggest has been individually assessed for their approach, style, experience, and the types of clients they work well with. Nothing is automated or random — your match is chosen carefully and thoughtfully.You receive genuine, unbiased guidance and a counsellor match designed with your best interests in mind.

About Your Clinician
meet Manny

Counselling Start is delivered by a qualified social worker with experience in mental health counselling, intake, and triage in both university and private practice settings. I specialise in helping people understand what they’re going through and guiding them toward the right support.My focus is to make your first step feel calm, structured, and genuinely helpful — listening closely, exploring your needs, and matching you with a counsellor who’s a good fit.You’ll be met with warmth, clarity, and no judgement — just support.

Ready to Begin?
Start with a simple first conversation that helps you feel clearer and supported.
Leave your details below and I'll reply personally and promptly to answer any questions or arrange your First-Step Session.
You won’t be kept waiting.

© 2025 Counselling Start. All rights reserved.