Counselling FAQS

Gemma Carman

"Working from an integrated person-centred perspective and using a biopsychosocial assessment approach I have developed the capacity to think creatively and evaluate objectively. I am passionate about managing the balance of stress, anxiety and overwhelm most especially for those who are working with existing mental health conditions.

I provide confidential brief intervention counselling via phone, face to face or telehealth to students supporting them to achieve personal and educational success.  I work collaboratively with the unique individual needs of students to improve effective completion of enrolled courses. As well as increasing capacity for problem solving and strategies improving well-being".
 

Alva Huang

"Since graduating from a Master in Counselling degree in 2011, I have been actively involved in the field of counselling and humanitarian work across countries such as Bulgaria, Singapore and Australia.   
 
I provide confidential brief counselling sessions to students via face to face, and telehealth platforms such as phone and video. Some of the presenting issues I worked with include anxiety, depression, study concerns, interpersonal conflicts, financial stressors and adjustment issues. I believe in the power of being authentic in relationships, and connecting over our shared human experience. In my free time, I enjoy a good cup of tea, watching television dramas and being in nature."
 

Eddie Stubbings

"As a counsellor, I offer space were every student can feel safe and heard in their experience. I work in a way that is trauma informed and strength-based, that comes from a systemic understanding of people as part of greater whole. As a person, I love my family, making music, and going on adventures with my mates. "

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.

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.

We are adhering to the regulations and guidelines put forward to us via the Victorian Education Department and Vic health in relation to the current COVID-19 situation. See Keeping up with COVID for more information.
 
At times face to face appointments may need to be changed to a phone or virtual appointment type. Students will be notified by a student counsellor if changes are due to occur.