What is Counselling for Seniors?

Counselling for seniors provides older adults with a safe, confidential and supportive space to explore their thoughts, emotions and life experiences with a qualified counsellor.

Growing older often involves changes that are different from those experienced earlier in life.
These changes may include:

• Retirement
• Changes in health
• Becoming a grandparent
• Caring for a partner
• Loss of loved ones
• Changes in independence
• Moving house
• Downsizing
• Transitioning into retirement living
• Adjusting to aged care services
• Reflecting on life achievements and future goals

Counselling provides an opportunity to talk openly about these experiences while developing practical strategies that support emotional wellbeing and everyday life.

Rather than focusing only on challenges, counselling also recognises the strengths, wisdom and resilience that come from a lifetime of experiences.

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Growing Older Looks Different for Everyone

There is no single way to experience ageing.

Some people remain highly active throughout later life, while others adjust to changing health, retirement or caring responsibilities.
For some, later life is a time of freedom and new opportunities.

For others, it may involve adapting to unexpected changes that affect routines, relationships or independence.
Counselling recognises that every person's journey is different.

Support is always guided by your individual goals, values and what matters most to you.

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Emotional Wellbeing Changes as We Age

Just as our physical needs change over time, our emotional wellbeing also evolves throughout later life.
Many of the changes experienced during ageing are completely normal.

However, that doesn't mean they are always easy.
Older adults may experience emotions associated with:

• Retirement
• Changes in daily routine
• Reduced independence
• Living with chronic health conditions
• Becoming a carer
• Losing a partner or close friends
• Moving into retirement living
• Changing family roles
• Becoming grandparents
• Reduced social opportunities
• Reflecting on life achievements
• Planning for the future

Experiencing these emotions does not mean something is "wrong."
They are often a natural response to significant life events.

Counselling provides a respectful environment where these experiences can be explored without judgement while identifying practical strategies that support emotional wellbeing and continued participation in meaningful activities.

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Counselling is About Living Well, Not Just Managing Difficulties

Many people believe counselling is only for times of crisis.
In reality, counselling can also support older adults who simply want to continue living well and maintaining a strong sense of purpose.
Some people seek counselling to:

• Better understand themselves.
• Adjust to retirement.
• Build confidence.
• Stay socially connected.
• Strengthen relationships.
• Explore new goals.
• Maintain emotional wellbeing.
• Develop healthy coping strategies.
• Continue participating in meaningful activities.

Counselling isn't about changing who you are.
It's about supporting you to continue living a life that reflects your values, strengths and aspirations, regardless of your age.

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A Lifetime of Experience Matters

Every older adult brings decades of knowledge, resilience and life experience into the counselling room.
Our role isn't to tell you how to live your life.
​
Instead, we work alongside you to understand your experiences, recognise your strengths and support you in navigating whatever stage of life you're currently experiencing.
Recommendations are always tailored to your individual circumstances, goals and preferences.

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Who Can Benefit From Senior Counselling?

Growing older is a unique journey, and no two people experience it in exactly the same way.

Some older adults seek counselling following a significant life event, while others simply want a safe and supportive place to reflect, adapt to change or continue building a fulfilling and meaningful life.

Counselling is not only for people experiencing major emotional difficulties. Many older adults choose counselling as a proactive way to support their wellbeing, maintain resilience and navigate life's natural transitions.

At Belong Health, counselling is tailored to the individual. We recognise that every person's life experiences, values, strengths and goals are different, and support is always guided by what matters most to you.
Older adults may benefit from counselling if they are experiencing:

• Retirement or changes in daily routine
• Grief and bereavement
• Loneliness or social isolation
• Changes in physical health
• Living with chronic health conditions
• Caring for a partner or family member
• Reduced independence
• Family relationship changes
• Adjusting to residential or retirement living
• Anxiety or ongoing stress
• Low confidence or self-esteem
• Major life transitions
• Emotional adjustment following illness or injury
• A desire to maintain emotional wellbeing and quality of life

There is no "perfect" time to seek counselling. Whether you're working through a specific challenge or simply looking for someone independent to talk with, counselling offers a respectful environment where your experiences are valued.

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Signs You May Benefit From Counselling

Everyone experiences difficult periods throughout life.
Sometimes these feelings gradually improve on their own, while at other times they continue affecting everyday life, relationships or overall wellbeing.

There is no checklist that determines when someone should access counselling, but the following experiences may suggest that additional support could be helpful.

Feeling Lonely or Isolated
Many older adults experience changes to their social networks over time.
Children may move away.
Friends may become less mobile.
Retirement may reduce daily social interactions.
Health changes may make it more difficult to participate in community activities.
Counselling provides a safe space to explore these experiences while identifying practical ways to maintain social connection and emotional wellbeing.


Adjusting to Retirement
Retirement is often viewed as an exciting milestone.
For many people it is.
However, retirement also brings significant changes to daily routines, identity, purpose and social connections.
Some people adjust quickly, while others need time to establish new routines and discover what this next chapter of life looks like for them.
Counselling provides an opportunity to reflect on these changes while exploring meaningful ways to continue participating in activities that bring enjoyment and purpose.

Living With Health Changes
Many older adults adapt to changing health over time.
This may include:

• Arthritis
• Chronic pain
• Parkinson's disease
• Stroke
• Dementia
• Reduced mobility
• Vision or hearing changes
• Other long-term health conditions

These experiences often affect more than physical health.
They can also influence confidence, relationships, independence and emotional wellbeing.
Counselling may support people as they adjust to these changes while continuing to focus on what remains meaningful and achievable.
Where appropriate, counselling may complement Occupational Therapy for Older Adults, helping address both emotional wellbeing and participation in everyday life.

Caring for Someone Else
Many older adults become carers for a partner, sibling or family member.
Although caring can be deeply meaningful, it can also be physically and emotionally demanding.
Counselling may provide carers with a supportive environment where they can:

• Reflect on their own wellbeing.
• Explore emotional challenges.
• Develop coping strategies.
• Build resilience.
• Maintain healthy boundaries.
• Recognise the importance of caring for themselves alongside caring for others.

Feeling Less Like Yourself
Sometimes there isn't one specific reason someone seeks counselling.
Instead, they simply notice they don't quite feel like themselves anymore.
They may describe feeling:

• Less motivated.
• More emotional.
• More worried than usual.
• Disconnected.
• Less interested in activities they once enjoyed.
• Unsure about the future.

Counselling provides a supportive opportunity to explore these experiences while working towards goals that feel meaningful and achievable.

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Common Reasons Older Adults Seek Counselling

Growing older brings many opportunities, but it can also involve significant periods of adjustment.
Below are some of the most common reasons older adults choose counselling.

Grief and Bereavement

Grief is one of the most common reasons older adults seek counselling.
While grief is often associated with losing a loved one, people may also grieve:

• Changes in health.
• Loss of independence.
• Retirement.
• Changes in lifestyle.
• Moving home.
• Loss of mobility.
• Changes in relationships.
• The death of a pet.
• Loss of long-standing routines.

Everyone experiences grief differently.
Counselling does not attempt to "fix" grief.
Instead, it provides a compassionate and supportive environment where people can explore their experiences at their own pace while developing healthy ways of adjusting over time.

Families may also find our Common Symptoms of Grief resource helpful.

Retirement and Finding Purpose

Retirement marks the beginning of a new chapter of life.

For some people it provides opportunities to travel, volunteer, spend time with family or pursue hobbies.
For others, retirement can feel like the loss of routine, identity or purpose.

Counselling provides a space to explore questions such as:

• What gives my life meaning now?
• How do I adjust to having more free time?
• What goals would I like to pursue?
• How do I stay socially connected?
• How do I establish a new routine?

Rather than focusing on what has ended, counselling can support people in discovering meaningful opportunities for this next stage of life.


Living With Health Changes

Receiving a new diagnosis or adapting to changing health can affect many areas of life.
Counselling may support people adjusting to:

• Parkinson's disease.
• Stroke.
• Dementia.
• Arthritis.
• Chronic pain.
• Reduced mobility.
• Long-term health conditions.

Support focuses on helping individuals explore emotional wellbeing while identifying practical strategies that support quality of life and continued participation in meaningful activities.

Where appropriate, counselling may complement Occupational Therapy, Speech Pathology or other allied health services available through Belong Health.


Loneliness and Social Connection

Many older adults experience periods where social connections naturally change.
Retirement, health changes, relocation or losing loved ones can all reduce opportunities for regular social interaction.
Feeling lonely doesn't necessarily mean someone is alone.
Likewise, being surrounded by people doesn't always prevent loneliness.

Counselling provides a safe environment where people can talk openly about these experiences while exploring practical ways to strengthen connection, maintain relationships and participate in meaningful community activities.

Family Relationships

Family dynamics often continue changing throughout later life.
Older adults may experience:

• Becoming grandparents.
• Caring for adult children.
• Supporting ageing parents.
• Changes in family roles.
• Blended families.
• Relationship changes.
• Intergenerational communication challenges.

Counselling provides an opportunity to explore these relationships while developing practical communication and coping strategies.

Anxiety, Stress and Emotional Wellbeing

Although ageing brings many positive experiences, it can also involve uncertainty and adjustment.
Older adults may experience concerns about:

• Health.
• Independence.
• Financial security.
• Caring responsibilities.
• Future planning.
• Family wellbeing.

Counselling may support people to better understand these concerns while developing practical strategies that promote resilience and emotional wellbeing.

Adjusting to Residential or Retirement Living

Moving into a retirement village or residential aged care is a significant life transition.
While many people adjust well, others may experience mixed emotions about leaving a long-term home, adapting to new routines or building new social connections.
Counselling provides a supportive environment where these experiences can be explored while identifying practical ways to adjust to new surroundings and maintain a sense of purpose and independence.

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Every Older Adult's Journey Is Different

There is no single way to experience later life.

Some people remain highly active well into their eighties and beyond, while others navigate significant health or lifestyle changes.
Wherever you are on your journey, counselling offers a respectful space where your experiences, strengths and goals are recognised.
Support is always individualised and based on what is important to you—not assumptions about age.

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What Happens During Senior Counselling?

One of the most common questions older adults and their families ask is:
"What actually happens during counselling?"
For many people, counselling is something they have never experienced before.

Some older adults may feel uncertain about what to expect, while others may wonder whether counselling is "for people my age."
The answer is yes.

Counselling provides a welcoming, respectful and confidential environment where you can talk openly about the things that matter most to you.

There is no expectation to have all the answers or know exactly what to say.

​Our counsellor works alongside you at a pace that feels comfortable, recognising that every person's experiences, strengths and goals are different.

Before Your First Appointment
Getting started is simple.
When you contact Belong Health, our friendly administration team will answer your questions, explain the counselling process and help arrange your first appointment.
Many people also choose to begin with our free 20-minute Meet & Greet.
This relaxed, no-obligation appointment gives you the opportunity to:

• Meet your counsellor.
• Ask questions.
• Learn about our counselling approach.
• Discuss what has brought you to counselling.
• Explore your goals.
• Decide whether counselling feels like the right fit.

There is absolutely no obligation to continue after your Meet & Greet.
Our goal is simply to help you make an informed decision about the support that best suits your needs.


Your First Counselling Session
The first session is about getting to know you.
Rather than focusing only on challenges, your counsellor will spend time understanding:

• Your life experiences.
• Your strengths.
• What's important to you.
• Your current concerns.
• Your support network.
• Your goals for counselling.

There is never any pressure to discuss difficult experiences before you feel ready.
Counselling develops at your pace and is guided by what feels meaningful to you.

Ongoing Counselling Sessions
As counselling progresses, sessions continue to evolve around your individual goals.
Depending on your circumstances, counselling may involve opportunities to:

• Explore thoughts and emotions.
• Reflect on life experiences.
• Develop practical coping strategies.
• Build confidence.
• Improve emotional wellbeing.
• Strengthen relationships.
• Navigate life transitions.
• Explore future goals.
• Recognise personal strengths.
• Maintain a sense of purpose.

Support remains flexible and adapts as your goals and circumstances change over time.

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Building on a Lifetime of Strengths

One of the unique aspects of counselling for older adults is recognising the wealth of life experience each person brings.

Throughout life, you've already overcome many challenges, adapted to change and developed valuable strengths.
Counselling builds upon these experiences rather than focusing only on current difficulties.
Together, you and your counsellor can explore:

• Past successes.
• Personal resilience.
• Meaningful relationships.
• Important values.
• Sources of hope.
• Practical strategies that have worked well throughout your life.

This strengths-based approach helps many people rediscover confidence while continuing to move forward.

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Counselling and Healthy Ageing

Healthy ageing involves much more than physical health.
Emotional wellbeing, social connection, purpose and participation in meaningful activities all contribute to quality of life.
Counselling may support healthy ageing by helping people:

• Adjust to life transitions.
• Maintain emotional wellbeing.
• Build resilience.
• Strengthen relationships.
• Stay socially connected.
• Explore meaningful activities.
• Develop healthy routines.
• Continue participating in the community.
• Adapt to changing circumstances.

Rather than focusing on limitations, counselling encourages people to recognise opportunities, strengths and meaningful ways to continue living well.

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Supporting Family Carers

Many older adults spend significant time caring for a partner, sibling or another family member.
Although caring can be deeply rewarding, it can also be emotionally demanding.
Carers sometimes place everyone else's needs ahead of their own.
Counselling provides carers with a safe space to:

• Reflect on their experiences.
• Explore emotional wellbeing.
• Develop coping strategies.
• Recognise stress.
• Build resilience.
• Maintain healthy boundaries.
• Prioritise self-care alongside caring responsibilities.

Supporting carers is an important part of supporting healthy ageing for the whole family.

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Counselling and Occupational Therapy for Older Adults

Belong Health's multidisciplinary approach means counselling can work alongside Occupational Therapy where appropriate.
Although these services are different, they often complement one another.

Occupational Therapy focuses on:

• Maintaining independence.
• Falls prevention.
• Home safety.
• Home modifications.
• Assistive technology.
• Daily living skills.
• Fatigue management.
• Functional mobility.
• Cognitive strategies.
• Participation in meaningful activities.

Counselling focuses on:

• Emotional wellbeing.
• Coping with change.
• Grief and loss.
• Building resilience.
• Confidence.
• Relationships.
• Identity.
• Adjustment to changing circumstances.

For example, following a stroke, an Occupational Therapist may support someone to regain independence in everyday activities while counselling provides emotional support as they adjust to life after their stroke.

Similarly, someone experiencing Parkinson's disease or chronic pain may benefit from Occupational Therapy to maintain participation in daily life while counselling supports emotional adjustment and wellbeing.

Together, these services provide more holistic support that addresses both practical and emotional aspects of ageing.

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Counselling, Home Care Packages and the NDIS

Depending on individual circumstances and funding arrangements, counselling may form part of a person's broader support network.
Some older adults may be:

• Private clients
• Self-managed NDIS participants
• Plan-managed NDIS participants
• Receiving other community-based supports

Our team can discuss the funding options available and help determine whether counselling is appropriate for your circumstances.
Where counselling forms part of a broader multidisciplinary approach, it may work alongside:

• Occupational Therapy
• Speech Pathology
• Positive Behaviour Support
• Registered Music Therapy
• Therapy Assistants
• Other healthcare professionals involved in your care.

Recommendations are always based on your individual goals, needs and available supports.

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Every Person's Journey is Different

There is no "right" age to begin counselling.

Some people attend counselling for the first time in their seventies, eighties or even nineties.
Others return to counselling after receiving support earlier in life.

Wherever you are on your journey, counselling provides an opportunity to continue growing, adapting and finding meaning in the experiences that shape your life.

Support is always individualised, respectful and centred around what matters most to you.

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Counselling for People Living with Dementia and Mild Cognitive Changes

Receiving a diagnosis of dementia or noticing changes in memory and thinking can bring many different emotions.
Some people experience uncertainty, worry or grief following a diagnosis, while others may simply want a safe space to talk about how life is changing.

Counselling does not treat dementia or slow its progression. However, it may provide emotional support as people adjust to changes, explore their feelings and develop practical coping strategies that align with their goals and circumstances.

Depending on the individual's needs, counselling may support people to:

• Explore emotional responses following a diagnosis.
• Adjust to changing routines.
• Maintain confidence and self-esteem.
• Strengthen communication with family members.
• Develop practical coping strategies.
• Continue participating in meaningful activities.
• Navigate changes in identity and independence.

Where appropriate, counselling may complement Occupational Therapy for Dementia, which focuses on maintaining independence, daily routines, home safety and participation in everyday life.

Families may also benefit from counselling as they adjust to changes in caring roles and family dynamics.

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Why Choose Belong Health for Senior Counselling?

Choosing the right counsellor is an important decision.
At Belong Health, we understand that older adults bring a lifetime of experiences, knowledge and resilience.
Our role is not to tell you how to live your life.
Instead, we provide a respectful, supportive environment where your experiences are valued and your goals remain at the centre of counselling.

A Person-Centred Approach
Every person's story is unique.
That's why counselling is always tailored to the individual rather than following a standard program.
We take time to understand:

• Your experiences.
• Your strengths.
• Your values.
• Your relationships.
• Your goals.
• What matters most to you.

Support develops collaboratively and changes as your needs evolve.

Respect for a Lifetime of Experience
Older adults have lived through many different stages of life.
Rather than focusing only on current challenges, our counsellor recognises the resilience, wisdom and strengths developed over many decades.
Counselling builds upon these experiences while supporting you through new transitions and opportunities.

Trauma-Informed Care
Many people have experienced difficult life events throughout their lifetime.
Our counselling follows trauma-informed principles by prioritising:

• Safety.
• Respect.
• Trust.
• Collaboration.
• Empowerment.
• Choice.

There is never any pressure to discuss experiences before you feel ready.
Counselling moves at a pace that feels comfortable for you.

Supporting Healthy Ageing
Healthy ageing is about much more than physical health.
It also includes:

• Emotional wellbeing.
• Social connection.
• Purpose.
• Independence.
• Community participation.
• Maintaining meaningful relationships.

Counselling supports these areas by helping people adapt to change while continuing to live meaningful and fulfilling lives.

Working as Part of a Multidisciplinary Team
Belong Health offers a range of allied health services that may complement counselling where appropriate.
With your consent, counselling may work alongside:

• Occupational Therapy
• Speech Pathology
• Registered Music Therapy
• Positive Behaviour Support
• Therapy Assistants
• Other health professionals involved in your care.

This collaborative approach helps ensure support remains coordinated and centred around your individual goals.

Flexible Appointment Options
Depending on your needs and location, appointments may be available:

• At our Falcon clinic.
• Within the community where appropriate.
• Via telehealth.

We aim to make counselling as accessible as possible while ensuring support remains personalised.

Free 20-Minute Meet & Greet
Finding the right counsellor matters.
Our free Meet & Greet provides the opportunity to:

• Meet your counsellor.
• Ask questions.
• Learn about our counselling approach.
• Discuss your goals.
• Explore available support options.
• Decide whether counselling feels right for you.

There is absolutely no obligation to continue afterwards.

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Our Counselling Approaches

Every older adult has their own unique story.
Rather than relying on one counselling model, our counsellor draws upon a range of evidence-informed approaches depending on your goals, preferences and circumstances.

Person-Centred Counselling
Person-centred counselling places you at the centre of the therapeutic relationship.
Your counsellor provides a respectful environment where you can:

• Reflect on your experiences.
• Explore thoughts and emotions.
• Build confidence.
• Recognise strengths.
• Develop practical strategies that support your wellbeing.

Life Review and Reminiscence Therapy
Later life naturally encourages reflection.
Life Review and Reminiscence Therapy provides opportunities to explore important memories, achievements, relationships and experiences while recognising the resilience and strengths developed throughout life.
For many older adults, reflecting on meaningful life experiences can support identity, connection and a continued sense of purpose.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Where appropriate, counselling may incorporate strategies informed by Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
CBT explores the relationship between thoughts, emotions and behaviours.
Depending on your goals, CBT-informed strategies may help you:

• Recognise unhelpful thinking patterns.
• Develop alternative perspectives.
• Strengthen coping strategies.
• Build confidence.
• Improve emotional wellbeing.

Support is always tailored to the individual rather than delivered as a rigid program.

Narrative Therapy
Narrative Therapy recognises that people make sense of their lives through the stories they tell about themselves.
Counselling may help people:

• Reflect on life experiences.
• Recognise strengths.
• Reframe challenges.
• Explore values.
• Build hope for the future.

Supportive Counselling for Loss and Adjustment
Later life often involves periods of adjustment.
Supportive counselling may help people navigate:

• Retirement.
• Grief.
• Health changes.
• Changing family roles.
• Reduced independence.
• Moving home.
• Transitioning into retirement living.

Support focuses on helping people adjust while maintaining dignity, confidence and emotional wellbeing.

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Ready to Talk?

Growing older brings many changes, but you don't have to navigate them alone.

Whether you're adjusting to retirement, living with changing health, supporting a loved one, experiencing grief or simply looking for someone to talk with, our counsellor is here to provide compassionate, respectful and person-centred support.

If you're unsure whether counselling is the right service, we'd be happy to answer your questions and discuss the support options available.

Book Your Free 20-Minute Meet & GreetOur free Meet & Greet allows you to:
✓ Meet your counsellor
✓ Ask questions
✓ Learn about our counselling approach
✓ Discuss your goals
✓ Explore available support options
✓ Decide whether counselling feels right for you

Contact Belong Health today to arrange your free 20-minute Meet & Greet and discover how counselling may support your emotional wellbeing and quality of life. 
​Our friendly team are happy to help call us on 08 9586 3934 or send us a message

Related Resources

Supporting emotional wellbeing often involves more than counselling sessions alone.
Belong Health provides a growing collection of free educational resources for older adults, families and carers.

Counselling Resources
Explore:

• Counselling Services
• Adult Counselling
• Grief and Loss Counselling

Healthy Ageing Resources
You may also find these resources helpful:

• Occupational Therapy for Older Adults
• Falls Prevention
• Home Safety Assessments
• Home Modifications
• Assistive Technology

Dementia Resources
Learn more about:

• Dementia Occupational Therapy Support

Neurological Conditions
Explore:

• Stroke Rehabilitation Occupational Therapy
• Parkinson's Disease Support
• Functional Capacity Assessments

Family and Carer Resources
Families may also benefit from:

• Common Symptoms of Grief​
• Positive Behaviour Support Resources

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Frequently Asked Questions - Counselling for Seniors

What is counselling for seniors?
Counselling for seniors provides older adults with a safe, respectful and confidential space to explore thoughts, emotions and life experiences with a qualified counsellor. It may support people as they navigate retirement, grief, health changes, family relationships and other transitions associated with later life.

Who can benefit from senior counselling?
Older adults aged 65 years and over may benefit from counselling if they are experiencing grief, loneliness, retirement, changing health, caring responsibilities, anxiety, stress, life transitions or simply want someone independent to talk with.

Is it too late to start counselling in my 70s or 80s?
Not at all. Many people begin counselling for the first time later in life. Counselling can be valuable at any age and is tailored to your individual goals, experiences and circumstances.

What happens during a senior counselling session?
Sessions are guided by your goals and what is important to you. You may explore life experiences, current challenges, relationships, emotions and practical strategies that support emotional wellbeing and quality of life.

Is counselling confidential?
Yes. Counselling is confidential, although there are legal and ethical situations where confidentiality may need to be broken, such as where there is a serious risk of harm to yourself or another person. These limits are explained during your first appointment.

Can counselling help with grief?
Yes. Counselling may support older adults experiencing grief following the loss of a partner, family member, friend, pet, health, independence or other significant life changes.

Can counselling help after retirement?
Yes. Retirement is a major life transition. Counselling may help people adjust to changing routines, explore new goals, maintain social connections and develop a renewed sense of purpose.

Can counselling help with loneliness?
Yes. Many older adults experience changes in their social networks over time. Counselling may provide a supportive environment to explore feelings of loneliness while identifying practical ways to maintain meaningful social connections.

Can counselling help after a dementia diagnosis?
Counselling may support people in adjusting emotionally following a dementia diagnosis. While counselling does not treat dementia, it may help people explore their feelings, adapt to change and develop coping strategies that align with their goals.

Can counselling help family carers?
Yes. Caring for a partner or family member can be emotionally and physically demanding. Counselling provides carers with a supportive space to reflect on their experiences, build resilience and develop healthy coping strategies.

Can counselling support people living with chronic health conditions?
Yes. Counselling may support people living with conditions such as arthritis, Parkinson's disease, chronic pain or other long-term health conditions by helping them adjust to changes and maintain emotional wellbeing.

Can counselling work alongside Occupational Therapy?
Yes. Counselling and Occupational Therapy often complement each other. Occupational Therapy focuses on independence, safety and participation in everyday activities, while counselling supports emotional wellbeing, adjustment and coping with life changes.

Can counselling work alongside Speech Pathology?
Yes. Speech Pathology may support communication or swallowing difficulties, while counselling can help people explore the emotional impact these changes may have on confidence, relationships and everyday life.

Can counselling work alongside Positive Behaviour Support?
Yes. Where appropriate, counselling may complement Positive Behaviour Support by supporting emotional wellbeing, coping strategies and quality of life while Positive Behaviour Support focuses on understanding behaviours and building practical supports.

Can counselling work alongside Registered Music Therapy?
Yes. Depending on individual goals, counselling and Registered Music Therapy may complement one another by supporting emotional wellbeing, communication, engagement and quality of life.

Is counselling available through the NDIS?
Counselling may be available for eligible NDIS participants where it aligns with their goals and available funding. Recommendations are based on individual circumstances and plan arrangements.

Is counselling covered by Medicare?
Counselling services are generally not covered by Medicare in the same way as psychology services provided under a Mental Health Treatment Plan. If you have questions about funding options, our team is happy to discuss them with you.

Can I access counselling if I receive a Home Care Package?
Funding arrangements vary depending on your circumstances and Home Care Package provider. We encourage you to speak with your package provider or contact our team to discuss available options.

Do I need a referral?
No. In most cases you can contact Belong Health directly to enquire about counselling services without a referral.

Do you offer telehealth counselling?
Yes. Where appropriate, telehealth appointments may be available for older adults who are unable to attend in person or who live outside the local area.

How long are counselling sessions?
Counselling sessions are generally around 60 minutes, although this may vary depending on your individual circumstances and agreed support plan.

How many counselling sessions will I need?
There is no set number of sessions. Some people benefit from short-term counselling during a particular life transition, while others choose ongoing support depending on their goals and preferences.

What if I feel nervous about starting counselling?
Feeling nervous is completely normal. Our free 20-minute Meet & Greet allows you to meet the counsellor, ask questions and decide whether counselling feels like the right fit before booking ongoing appointments.

Can counselling help with anxiety?
Yes. Counselling may support older adults experiencing anxiety by helping them explore their experiences, recognise triggers and develop practical coping strategies.

Can counselling help with stress?
Yes. Counselling may support people experiencing stress related to health, caring responsibilities, family relationships, financial concerns or other life changes.

Can counselling help with depression?
Counselling may support people experiencing low mood or emotional distress by providing a safe space to explore their experiences and develop practical coping strategies. If a person requires medical or psychiatric care, the counsellor may recommend speaking with their GP or another appropriate healthcare professional.

Can counselling help after losing a spouse?
Yes. The loss of a partner is one of life's most significant changes. Counselling provides a compassionate environment where people can explore grief, adjust to life changes and receive emotional support at their own pace.

Can counselling help after moving into a retirement village?
Yes. Moving into retirement living or residential aged care can bring many emotions. Counselling may support people as they adjust to new routines, environments and social connections.

Can counselling help if I'm living alone?
Yes. Counselling may support people living alone by providing a safe space to explore emotional wellbeing, maintain confidence and identify opportunities to strengthen social connection and community participation.

Can family members be involved in counselling?
With your consent, family members may be involved where appropriate if this supports your goals and wellbeing.

What counselling approaches do you use?
Our counsellor uses a flexible, person-centred approach and may draw on Person-Centred Counselling, Life Review and Reminiscence Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy and Supportive Counselling for Loss and Adjustment, depending on your goals and preferences.

Will counselling tell me what to do?
No. Counselling is collaborative. Rather than giving advice or making decisions for you, your counsellor supports you to explore options, reflect on your experiences and develop strategies that align with your own goals and values.

Can counselling improve emotional wellbeing?
Counselling may support emotional wellbeing by helping people better understand themselves, strengthen coping strategies, build resilience and maintain meaningful participation in everyday life.

Do you provide counselling in Mandurah?
Yes. Belong Health provides counselling services from our Falcon clinic, supporting older adults throughout Mandurah, the Peel Region and surrounding areas.

Do you provide counselling in Perth?
Yes. Depending on availability and individual circumstances, counselling may be available for older adults living throughout Perth and surrounding suburbs via community visits or telehealth where appropriate.

How do I get started?
Simply contact Belong Health by phone or complete our online enquiry form. Our friendly team will answer your questions, discuss your needs and help you book your free 20-minute Meet & Greet or first counselling appointment.

Belong Health's Resource Hub
To further support your child's development, visit our Resource Hub for additional activities, tips, and tools tailored for various needs and diagnoses.

What Counselling Looks Like in Later Life
Understand how counselling can support seniors through grief, life transitions, retirement, and emotional wellbeing.

Our friendly team are happy to help call us on 08 9586 3934 or send us a message

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