Frequently Asked Questions
Practical answers about sessions, fees, confidentiality and what to expect.
Practical answers, plainly written.
Below are answers to questions Mark is often asked. If you can't find what you need, please reach out — he's happy to talk through anything before you book.
No referral is required to see Mark privately. Psychotherapy in Australia is unregulated by Medicare, so clients can self-refer at any time. If you've been referred by a GP, psychiatrist or another health professional, please feel free to share their details when you book.
Standard sessions are 50 minutes. Current fees are confirmed at the time of booking — please contact Mark directly for up-to-date rates. Private health insurance rebates may be available for PACFA-registered psychotherapy through some funds; please check with your provider.
Yes. Confidentiality is a foundational ethical commitment of clinical practice and Mark adheres strictly to PACFA's Code of Ethics. The only legal exceptions involve an imminent risk to your safety or the safety of another person, or where records are subpoenaed by a court. These exceptions are discussed openly during your first session.
The first session is mostly about getting to know each other. Mark will ask about what's brought you to therapy, a little about your background and what you're hoping to work toward. You're equally welcome to ask him questions — about his approach, experience or anything else. There's no expectation to share more than you're ready to.
It varies. Some concerns can be addressed in 6–10 sessions; deeper or longer-standing patterns often benefit from longer-term work. Mark will discuss treatment length with you transparently, and you can pause or end therapy at any time.
Yes. Secure video sessions are available for clients across Australia. Telehealth works well for many concerns — and is particularly useful for clients in regional areas or those balancing work and family commitments.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based therapy with strong research support for PTSD, complex trauma and treatment-resistant anxiety and depression. It uses bilateral stimulation (such as guided eye movements) to help the brain process unresolved memories. Mark uses EMDR particularly often with veterans and clients working through trauma.
Clinical art therapy uses creative image-making as a way of accessing thoughts and feelings that are sometimes hard to put into words. Jungian Sandplay (to ISST standards) uses a sand tray and miniatures to allow the unconscious to express itself symbolically. Neither requires any artistic ability — they are clinical tools, not art classes, and can be especially helpful for trauma, grief, and work with children.
Yes. Mark has an excellent rapport with young people and is an accredited Aussie Optimism facilitator (Curtin University). He works with children from age 6, preteens and adolescents — often using creative approaches alongside conversation. Parents are typically involved in the broader treatment plan.
If you are in immediate danger or having thoughts of harming yourself or someone else, please contact emergency services on 000 immediately, or call Lifeline on 13 11 14 (24/7). Mark's practice is not a crisis service and cannot respond to urgent after-hours contact. The Emergency Support page lists additional resources.
The fastest way is the contact form on this site, or you can call or email Mark directly. He aims to respond within two business days. New-client enquiries are warmly welcomed.