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Counselling Services
It is with pleasure that the counselling team at City Fertility Centre take this opportunity to introduce ourselves and inform you about the support available to you while you are undertaking fertility treatment.
Counselling services are offered in a group setting utilising the City Fertility Centre Support Group (more information provided below). If you don’t feel that a group setting would best meet your needs, you may wish to consider meeting one of the CFC counsellors for an individual session, or a session in the company or your partner/support person.
Why would patients need counselling services? Even without the additional stress of IVF, everyday problems, such as work stress, relationship troubles and coping with illness, can seriously affect your life. Addressing these concerns is vital to enjoying life and good relationships. Psychologists and specialist-trained counsellors can help with these situations. They equip people with the skills needed to function better and to prevent problems. Research shows psychological treatments are effective in managing many common mental health disorders.
Individuals may seek assistance from a counsellor to help:
- Manage stress and conflict at home and work;
- Deal with grief, loss and trauma;
- Overcome feelings of anxiety and fear;
- Increase self-esteem and confidence;
- Enhance personal relationships;
- Cope with disabilities or health problems;
- Deal with problems related to alcohol and drug use;
- Recover from eating disorders;
- Handle obsessions and compulsions;
- Deal with sexual concerns; and
- Manage anger or violence.
Couples may seek assistance from a counsellor to help:
- Build a satisfying relationship;
- Improve their communication;
- Manage conflict or disagreement;
- Resolve thoughts of separation or divorce; and
- Improve parenting skills.
Consultations
People who visit one of the CFC counsellors can expect discussions to focus on thoughts and feelings that may be of concern, which will enable them to gain new perspectives and understanding. They may learn to think in new ways, see a wide range of alternatives, and how to explore and practise different ways of behaving. Counselling is sometimes provided on a one-to-one basis, or clients may be seen in the company of their partner, family or other significant people.
Cost of counselling
CFC patients are covered for one counselling session per stimulated cycle, within the total fees paid. Any subsequent sessions during that treatment cycle are met by the patient, and sessional rates can be discussed with the CFC reception. In some instances, privately funded sessions will be eligible for a rebate through your private health insurance.
OUR COUNSELLING TEAM
Riné Frouws MAPS BA (Hons) Psych MA Counselling Psych
Riné has been a practicing Psychologist for ten years, and is registered with the Australian Psychological Society and the Psychologists Board of Queensland.
Riné provides a safe environment for clients to explore their thoughts and feelings. She believes in the importance of a balanced approach to life, and assists clients to adopt realistic expectations amidst the pressures associated with reproduction. Riné predominantly uses a Cognitive Behaviour Therapy approach, as this teaches practical skills and facilitates active involvement on the part of the client, thereby empowering them in the management of daily psychological issues. Riné’s method of counselling enables her clients to take control of areas that feel overwhelming and stressful—assisting them to manage and cope with unexpected situations.
Joel Cullin (Social Worker) B. Soc. Wk, MAASW
Joel Cullin is a social worker with six years’ professional experience as an individual, couple and family counsellor. Joel is a member of the Australian Association of Social Workers and a Clinical Member of the Queensland Association for Family Therapy.
Joel’s has a strong interest in assisting clients who are involved in fertility treatment to manage some of the personal and relationship challenges that accompany the treatment and associated decision making.
Alessandra Winfield (APD BHthSc Nutr and Diet (Hons)
Alessandra has worked in the area of health promotion for 13 years with the past seven years as an Accredited Practicing Dietitian, and is registered with the Dietitians Association of Australia.
Alessandra counsels her clients on the premise that a healthy lifestyle is a contributing factor to successful conception and positive pregnancy outcomes. Research has shown that a healthy lifestyle improves fertility rates in some women and also reduces the incidence of miscarriage. A healthy lifestyle during pregnancy also provides a good start for the developing infant and contributes to positive outcomes for the mother in terms of mental and physical health.
Alessandra addresses all aspects of nutrition and fitness and presents information in a caring, supportive and easy-to-understand format.
CONFIDENTIALITY
Please be assured that all services are provided in a completely discreet and confidential environment.
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