Free Service
Counselling
The Mingary-Cairnmillar Counselling Services provides free counselling and mental health services via in-person, and via virtual care (telehealth).
Mingary-Cairnmillar Counselling Services
The Mingary-Cairnmillar Counselling Services provides free counselling and mental health services via in-person, and via virtual care (telehealth).
Make a booking: 1800 391 393 (free call) or email clinic@cairnmillar.org.au
The Mingary-Cairnmillar Counselling Service is open Monday to Thursday from 10am to 5pm.
The Mingary Cairnmillar-Counselling & Assessment Community Clinic is a key part of our not-for-profit work, reflecting our commitment to making quality mental health care accessible to all. We offer free individual counselling for people aged 4 and above, as well as low-cost assessment services, including cognitive, vocational, and achievement assessments. Services are available both in person and via virtual care (telehealth). Services are delivered by provisional psychologists and counsellors‑in‑training under the guidance of experienced supervisors.
- No referral needed
- Unlimited individual counselling sessions
- Low-Cost Assessments (Concessions available)
- In-person and virtual care (telehealth)
Our services are inclusive and affirming of diversity in all its forms. We believe access to quality mental health care should be available to everyone.
If you are in crisis or need immediate support: Lifeline 13 11 14 · Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 · 000 for emergencies
In Person Appointments
Request an appointment online or call us on 1800 391 393 (free call) or email us at clinic@cairnmillar.org.au
If you are visiting us in person, direction details can be found here
Preparing for virtual care (telehealth) session:
If you have scheduled in your session via telehealth (phone or video) – OR, it has been changed to telehealth for exceptional circumstances, the below guide will assist you in what to expect.
When your clinician contacts you we request that you are in a private and quiet space.
VIDEO SESSION
Your clinician will email you at the time and date of your appointment with a link to connect into a video conferencing session. You can click on the link within that email and follow the prompts to access the video call. You will need a smartphone, tablet, or computer with camera and microphone capabilities.
PHONE SESSION
If video sessions are not your preferred option, you can have your session by phone. Your clinician will call you on your listed contact number at the time of your appointment. If they can’t reach you the first time, they may try again within 5-10 minutes of your appointment time. It’s recommended to be near your phone at the time of the appointment to avoid missed calls.
Technical issues can happen, and we are with you every step of the way. Your clinician has your contact details, so they can call you or email you to check in if you haven’t been able to connect. You can also call us 1800 391 393 for help. Any issues connecting on the first appointment won’t disrupt how your appointment runs when we do get you connected. We find that once someone connects the first time, it’s very simple and easy to do it again for future sessions.
Free Counselling Services
We provide free individual counselling for children, adolescents, and adults aged 4 and above. No referral or Mental Health Care Plan is required. This service is particularly helpful if you have used your Medicare sessions or prefer not to access Medicare. In these cases, they do not need a referral from their GP. Our provisional psychologists and counsellors-in-training can see a diverse range of clients experiencing a range of mild-moderate mental health challenges. If you are unsure whether we can help you with your situation, do not hesitate to enquire.
Session details: All counselling sessions are 50 minutes in duration. Before starting counselling, you will complete a 30-minute intake call to help us understand your needs and match you with the most suitable clinician. This call will discuss a little bit about your background, and needs for support. This is to ensure we have matched you with the most appropriate clinician, and we are able to provide you with the support you need. Should other support services be more appropriate to your needs, we can help you find alternative support where possible.
As our clinicians are in training placements (typically 16-20 weeks), you may be transferred to another clinician if you require longer-term support.
**Disclaimer: Whilst our clinicians are able to support clients during sessions, we are not a crisis support center. If we are not a suitable service for your needs at this time, we may be able to provide information on other support services.
assessments
Low-cost Asessments
Low-cost assessment services, including Cognitive, Career/Vocational, and Achievement Testing/Assessment focused on learning, development and overall daily functioning are offered through our Community Clinic and are conducted by provisional psychologists and counsellors in training under the guidance of experienced supervisors. Assessments can be completed in person and via virtual care (telehealth).
Assessment Costs (Community Clinic pathway)
| Fee Structure | Full Fee | Concession |
|---|---|---|
| Comprehensive Assessment (3-5 sessions) | $750 | $550 |
| Vocational Assessment (2 sessions) | $200 | $100 |
| Personality Assessment (2 Sessions) | $100 | $50 |
- An initial assessment session (Includes a discussion of your concerns and/ or completion of relevant assessment tools)
- One or more follow-up sessions (if required)
Follow-up / Feedback Appointment
- Scheduled based on assessment requirements
- Includes a review of results and explanation of your written report
Payment
Payment is required at the end of the initial appointment, prior to any feedback sessions. If you are unsure, please call us to discuss whether these pathways are suitable for you or if you have any questions. You can also visit our assessment page for more information.Important Information
- Under the Community Assessment Pathway, appointments are conducted by provisional psychologists or counsellors in training (vocational assessments only).
- Provisional psychologists and counsellors-in-training are not able to provide diagnostic or complex assessments.
- If diagnostic clarification or additional testing is required, this can be arranged at an additional cost and will be discussed with you during your intake session.
Get started
To begin, complete our enquiry form or contact us to discuss your needs