FAQ’s
Do I need a referral to see a counsellor? What about rebates?
You don’t need a referral for counselling with The Anxious ADHDer; just call or book online for an appointment. Rebates from medicare are not available; Doctors Health Fund taken.
Funded counselling is also available through WorkCover Queensland for eligible injured workers, and through the QPS SelfRefer program for Queensland Police Service, SES and Marine Rescue Queensland employees and volunteers.
How much does counselling cost?
Questions about the cost of counselling are fairly common, and I believe that it is important to know how much counselling costs upfront, and be confident that you’re getting quality, affordable counselling. The Anxious ADHDer’s fees are $140 for 45 minutes, or $170 for a 60 minute appointment.
I think I might have ADHD. Do I need a diagnosis to get support?
Not at all. Many of my clients come to me wondering if ADHD might be part of their story, without a formal diagnosis. You don't need a diagnosis to benefit from support; if you're struggling with focus, overwhelm, emotional regulation, or that constant sense of being behind, we can work on that together right now.
And if it's something you're curious about, we can also talk through whether a formal diagnosis might be helpful for you, and what that process looks like.
What's the difference between counselling and coaching for ADHD?
Counselling tends to focus on understanding and healing - working through the emotional impact of ADHD, including self-criticism, burnout, or the effects of years of feeling like you weren't quite keeping up. Coaching is more future-focused - building practical strategies, rhythms and habits that work with your brain. In practice, most of my ADHD clients need a blend of both, so that's exactly what our sessions offer.
Can counselling help with ADHD burnout?
Yes; and it's one of the things I'm most passionate about supporting. ADHD burnout is real, and it's different from general burnout. It often comes after years of masking, overcompensating, and pushing through; and it can leave you feeling completely empty. Counselling gives you space to stop, understand what's happened, and rebuild in a way that actually works for your brain.
How do I get an ADHD diagnosis in Queensland?
Getting an ADHD diagnosis in Queensland has recently become more accessible. Traditionally, diagnosis required a referral to a psychiatrist or paediatrician — which often meant long wait times and significant cost. As of November 2024, GPs who have completed specific ADHD training are now able to diagnose ADHD in adults, which is a game changer for accessibility.
The process generally looks like this:
Talk to your GP; ask if they are ADHD-trained and able to assess for ADHD, or if they can refer you to someone who is
Complete an assessment; this usually involves questionnaires and a clinical interview
Receive your diagnosis and discuss next steps, including whether medication might be helpful
A diagnosis isn't the right path for everyone - but for many people, it brings enormous relief and opens doors to additional support. If you're unsure whether to pursue one, that's something we can explore together in our sessions.
I work with a number of clients navigating the diagnosis process, and I'm aware of a few GP practices in the Brisbane area who are trained in ADHD assessment.
Feel free to get in touch if you'd like a pointer in the right direction.
Do you offer anxiety counselling online?
Yes; all services are available online via Zoom, Australia-wide. Online counselling works just as well as face-to-face for most people, and for many of my clients it's actually easier! No commute, no worrying about being late or where to park, no waiting room, and you can be in your own comfortable space. In-person sessions are available in Enoggera, North Brisbane.
What is your counselling approach?
My primary approach is ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), which is an evidence-based form of CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy). ACT is particularly well-suited to anxiety, stress, overwhelm and ADHD - my key areas of focus. It's about recognising that as humans we have thoughts, feelings and emotions, and working with those, while choosing what's important to us and taking action towards the life we want to live.
I also draw on Solution Focused therapy, which is great for when you want practical, forward-focused support - working out where you want to be and how to get there.
My approach may sometimes involve waving my hands about a bit (when I’m excited or explaining things) but it’s always tailored to you. Whether you're navigating high-functioning anxiety, ADHD burnout, stress, or just feeling stuck, the focus is on helping you define and work towards the life you want - with practical tools, strategies, and unconditional support.
What's it actually like to work with you?
Pretty relaxed honestly. You're welcome to bring your coffee, wear your slippers (online clients especially!), and show up as you are. It's okay to swear, it's okay to cry, and it's absolutely okay to laugh (in fact I'd be disappointed if we didn't). Counselling doesn't have to be heavy and serious every session; and for many clients it doesn’t. That said, if things do get deep or emotional, that's okay too. I'm comfortable sitting with the hard stuff, and you don't need to hold anything back.
I'll probably wave my hands around at some point. You've been warned.
What you can always expect is a non-judgmental space where you're genuinely heard, and where we focus on what actually helps; not just what the internet says should help (although there's some genuinely great stuff out there too!).
How does online booking work?
Click on book now, and look for a date and time that suits you. You'll see options for face-to-face, online (telehealth), phone, and Walk and Talk outdoor sessions. Once you’ve found the appointment that works for you, click to book and you will be asked for basic contact details, including an email address for your booking confirmation and reminders. The booking system does not take payment; that happens at the end of your counselling session. If you can’t find a time that suits you, or you want to discuss your options, you can call or email for support.
Is online the only way to book?
No, if you’d prefer to call and book over the phone that’s great. I’ll be delighted to talk to you and find the time that works for you. It also gives me the opportunity to find out a bit about you, and give you an idea of what to expect from Cara Counselling.
What happens once I’ve booked my first appointment?
Once you've booked, you'll receive a confirmation email with everything you need; directions to the office for in-person appointments, or a Zoom link for online sessions plus confidentiality info etc. I'll also check in to see if you have any questions before we meet.
What happens at my first counselling appointment?
The first appointment starts with the counselling agreement, which sets out important information including The Anxious ADHDer’s approach, record keeping, confidentiality, payments and cancellation policy. We then move onto looking at your immediate needs and concerns, and your goals, or hopes for counselling, and I support you to generate and consider options that will help you achieve those goals.
How many appointments will I have?
There's no set number of sessions. In our first appointment we'll talk about what you're hoping to get from counselling - what will be different in your life, what success looks like for you - and go from there. We check in as we progress, and you're welcome to stop at any time.
How and when do I pay for my session?
Payment is taken at the end of your session. You can pay by cash or Eftpos (preferred), with no credit card surcharge fees. Visa, Mastercard, Amex and debit cards accepted. Mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay etc) also accepted. For phone/zoom sessions, I send a stripe payment link after your appointment.
Do you provide counselling for children / teens?
I provide counselling for tweens & teens aged 10-17, with a particular focus on anxiety, stress and ADHD. I also provide parenting counselling, supporting parents with knowledge and skills to deal with difficult situations or particular concerns, general help with balancing all aspects of family life, and support in managing their own wellbeing.
What if I’m unwell, or need to cancel an appointment?
If you have a cold or something where you’re not up for coming in person, please contact me to switch to an online appointment, or reschedule. If you need to cancel and/or reschedule due to illness or any other reason, please give as much notice as possible, and at least 24 hours notice.
What about privacy and confidentiality? - Our privacy statement
Everything you share and that we discuss in the course of our sessions will be treated as highly confidential. While there are a few circumstances in which confidentiality cannot be maintained (listed below), in those situations only the minimum information necessary would be shared in direct response to the specific concern or legal requirement. If something of concern comes up we would generally have a discussion about the issue, options and outcomes, before deciding how best to proceed.
If I have good grounds for believing that serious harm may occur to you or anyone else
Where I consider a child to be at risk.
Where you have explicitly given me permission to share information, such as informing your emergency contact of an emergency situation or when you have signed your permission for a referral.
In some cases where a significant crime may be or has been committed.
Where your counselling records, or part thereof, have been requested by a court of law.
Do you take notes during counselling?
Do these notes go on my health record?
I take notes during or after each session to support my understanding, and track the progress we are making together. These notes are stored securely, and clients may ask to view them if they wish. I retain client notes for seven (7) years from the date of the last session.
No; there is no link between The Anxious ADHDer and your health record. No notes or record of your appointments with The Anxious ADHDer will appear on your health record.
Do you offer EAP, WorkCover or QPS Self-Refer appointments?
Yes - all three are available and most can be booked directly through the booking page.
EAP - Employee Assistance Program sessions through your employer
WorkCover - support following a workplace injury or incident
QPS Self-Refer - confidential mental health support for Queensland Police Service, SES and Marine Rescue Queensland employees and volunteers.
If you're unsure whether your situation qualifies, feel free to call or email.
Do you provide letters for employers, universities or other third parties?
The Anxious ADHDer does not provide letters for employers, universities or other third parties as a standalone service. Letters of this kind are provided to ongoing clients only, as part of an established counselling relationship.
Where can I find more information to understand issues such as anxiety and depression?
There are many resources available, including apps like Plum Village, Mindfulness, 3 Good Things, and Smiling Mind, which support mindfulness and self care, and websites like Beyond Blue and SANE, which provide a range of information and support.