Counselling FAQS

Anything. You can see a counsellor for all sorts of reasons, no matter how big or small the problem may seem. We can support you with any uncertainties you may have – whether they are personal issues, mental health concerns and any matters relating to your wellbeing or study.  Counselling at The Gordon is a short-term and solution focused service, our aim is to make sure you are well supported in any area’s that are concerning you.
 Common issues that people seek counselling for include:

• grief and loss
• communication and relationships issues
• study issues
• stress, anxiety and depression
• life transitions such as the birth of a new baby, separation, divorce or the death of a family member or friend
• addiction
• abuse
• trauma
• self-esteem difficulties
• exploring their gender identity and/or sexuality

A session with a counsellor can help you;

• clarify and better understand your concerns
• explore how your concerns have an outward effect
• develop new skills and strategies for managing your concerns
• information about referrals

Counselling sessions generally go for 50 minutes. Together, you and your counsellor will set goals to address your concerns and every few sessions we’ll review your progress towards these goals.

Counselling services are free for students currently enrolled at The Gordon.  Appointments are available to Australian residents and International students.

Geelong City Campus
 (behind customer service)
 H building H1.22

East Geelong Campus
 A Building A1.17

Werribee Watton St Campus
 Tuesday
Watton Street W2.01

Werribee Princes Campus
 Thursday
 WP.16

Choosing to see a counsellor is a difficult first step.  The counsellors at The Gordon will use their training and experience to assist you in managing your issues and will provide advice on whether this service is appropriate to meet your needs.  Counselling at The Gordon is confidential, short-term and solution focused with a maximum of up to 8 sessions offered. For issues requiring long term therapy or other specialised health support the counsellor will discuss with you a referral to an external counsellor or to other health professionals.

All counsellors employed by The Gordon have relevant tertiary qualifications in psychology, social work, counselling and/or other welfare and hold membership with a professional organisations such as Australian Counselling Association (ACA), Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) or Australian Psychological Society (APS).

Counsellors follow strict guidelines for professional behavior, confidentiality and privacy.  Our counsellors will not discuss your personal information or attendance details with anyone outside of the service unless you have provided us with permission to do so.  Exceptions to this are;

• If there is a legal requirement for us to do so
• We have a reasonable belief that there is a risk to your health or safety or that of another person
• If it is necessary for The Gordon to obtain legal advice if your file is subpoenaed by a court of law.

During your first counselling appointment you will be asked to complete some forms which include a Confidentiality agreement.
 
 At the conclusion of your first appointment the counsellor will discuss with you what you would like to happen next.  Some students chose to have a single session while others will arrange for a number of sessions (max up to 8) to address their concerns.  If you intend on having a number of sessions, the counsellor will set goals with you to focus on in future sessions.

You don’t need to bring anything to your counselling appointment, however, to get the most out of your appointment we ask that you;

• Be open and honest about your issue of concern
• Be willing to hear a different perspective or try something new.
• Treat staff with consideration and respect.
• Accept responsibility for your own part in the resolution process.
• Notify the service of any changes to your appointment in a timely manner.

Attending to your areas of concern is likely to make you feel like you are doing something good for yourself. This can offer some immediate relief. However it is important that you are able to connect with your therapist in a manner that best supports positive change.
 Your first session will help you to decide whether this counsellor is the right one for you. Questions to ask yourself include:

• Do I feel comfortable?
• Am I able to talk freely about deeply personal thoughts and emotions?
• Is the counsellor paying attention to me?
• Do I feel they understand and respect me?
• Has the counsellor discussed a plan with me about how we will manage my issues or concerns?

If your needs are specific it may be appropriate to refer to a counsellor who specialises in these areas. The Gordon counselling team can help you through this process to ensure you are getting the required help you need.

Student Counselling service contact details can be found on our home page.  Appointments can be made or cancelled through self-booking online or by phone 5225 0963 or email counsel@gordontafe.edu.au
 
 You will receive an appointment reminder the day before your appointment and can use this to confirm or cancel your appointment.

Generally, you will be able to see a counsellor within a week.  During peak times there could be a two week wait for an appointment.

If you require urgent medical attention call

• Emergency 000
• Lifeline 13 11 14
• Suicide Callback 1300 659 467

Appointments are available across all Gordon campuses as face-to-face, phone or via Telehealth. You can select your preferred consultation approach upon booking.