A rural farm scene at sunset with dry grass, a dirt path, a weathered barn, a metal water tank, and trees, including one leafless tree, under a clear sky.

Your questions about counselling in the country, answered

FAQs

Never talked to a counsellor before? Here’s what to expect.

To help you decide if this could be a good fit, we’ve answered some of the most common questions we get from clients below.

  • It’s normal to feel like you’ve got to push through. Talking to someone can help before it gets worse. You don’t have to be in crisis to benefit from counselling, even one session can make things clearer.

  • No. Our service is completely confidential. Your information is protected, and your business stays yours.

  • We get it. That’s why we offer flexible options, including telehealth, after-hours and phone sessions you can do from anywhere you are comfortable. You choose the time that fits your schedule.

  • Talking, in a couselling setting, is about working through challenges with someone who can help you find clarity, direction, or just a bit of breathing space. We focus on providing practical tools and real change.

  • Not at all. You are in control of the conversation. You only share what you feel comfortable with. There’s no pressure to “go deep” unless you want to.

  • Our fees are listed on our Counselling page here. Under “Counselling Fees”.

  • It can be hard to know how to approach getting support for your partner or family member. Ideally, conversations around someones mental health should be clear, direct, calm, and at a time when you both have space to talk.

    If you are looking for advice on how to further support someone you care about please feel free to get in touch directly.

  • Every counsellor is different. If your past experience wasn’t helpful, it doesn’t mean counselling isn’t for you, just that the fit wasn’t right. We work in a straightforward and practical way.

    If you feel that We are not the right fit for you we will always provide you with an alternative referral.

  • No. We're not here to diagnose or lecture. We’re here to listen, support, and help you make sense of what’s going on, without judgement. Many of our clients say they feel comfortable from the first session.

  • No worries, we offer phone counselling, which works well even with patchy reception. You can talk from wherever you are, without worrying about Wi-Fi or being on camera.

  • Start by making it easy for people to talk. You don’t need big budgets or a HR department, just genuine support and clear options.

    Encourage open conversations, check in regularly, and make sure your team knows help is available through a confidential Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

    A short chat can stop a small problem becoming a big one, and that’s good for your people and your business.

  • An Employee Assistance Program gives your team confidential, one-on-one counselling to help manage stress, burnout, or personal struggles, before they start affecting work or safety.

    At Rural Counselling Australia, our EAP specialises in servicing family farms, the agricultural industry, and the transport industry. You don’t need to be a big company to look after your team, our sessions are affordable, private, and flexible.

    We offer after-hours, phone, video, and in-person options, all handled confidentially. No paperwork, no jargon, just practical support that fits rural life. Find out more here.

  • Check our Resources Page for helpful and practical tools to help you navigate the in-between times